My not so popular opinion.

I have MOVED!

2009-01-17T19:18:00.000-08:00

Because I have been blogging for so long, I have a boring, annoying, REALLY OLD, template that WILL NOT allow me to change it. SO...I have moved. Please join me here. http://theplantoprosper.blogspot.com/

Here he is!!!! In our house!!!!

2009-01-16T13:12:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday to my baby girls!!! For their birthday they got this little Rat Terrier(they are much cutier than their names!), Samson. He is 8 weeks old and my mom has his half sister, Willow.

Here they are right after getting him! I created a hunt for him which included "the rules" in rhymes, a puzzle to put together(a picture of him) and a password to call my sister with(she was waiting with him in the car). As you can tell, they were pretty excited!

Almost home!

2009-01-14T09:47:00.001-08:00

Samson puzzle pic

Olive Oil... JUST EAT IT!

2009-01-13T07:55:00.000-08:00

I have been focusing on NOT focusing on weight loss this week but trying to balance the thoughts in my life. Sounds strange...but for someone who is anxiety driven it is easy to find yourself thinking(obsessing) about one certain topic for the entire day. I DO THIS.

For example...if I am thinking about if I decide I need to make thank you cards to thank my recent hostesses then I will...research the latest technique on card making, scour my house for the necessary tools, cut WAY TOO MUCH paper, try to do something I have had no experience with, and end up frustrated because I wasn't "good enough" to be able to finish the project. I do all of this while trying to keep up with the housework, kids, business, volunteering etc. You get the idea.

So, part of me trying to just make this automatic means that I am not thinking about it all day.

One of the things that I think is helping me is that I am now getting in my daily recommendation of 2tsp. of healthy oil. Weight Watchers believes this is so important that they have put it into their program as one of their daily requirements. In the past I rarely ate any oil while on ww. In fact...I don't even know if I owned any oil during that time.

At the meeting last week Sally(who I adore and is the best ww leader ever), told us that the oil is actually one of the things that keeps your body satisfied and thus, keeps you from those crazy cravings...where you will eat the cardboard packaging that the cereal was in because...there isn't any cereal left!

So, I started eating 2 tsp of olive oil(2.5pts) with a bit of parmesan cheese and 2 slices of whole wheat healthy life bread(1pt for 2 slices). 3.5 points gone. But I think worth it!

It does seem to be working too! So, tidbit of the day...eat your oil! And...don't obsess about food!

Slim Down Sunday- Week 2

2009-01-11T08:22:00.000-08:00

It's been two weeks since I started back with ww. Its very interesting to me that exactly the same thing happend at this first weigh in week. I was only down .6 lbs.

This is good right? Well actually the first time that I started ww I was SO disapointed to the point of tears when I only lost a small amount on my first week. I knew that I hadn't "cheated". I knew that I followed the program probably better than most. The second time I started, again...small loss and then frustration and self defeat.

This time was SO different. When I saw that I lost .6 pounds I was ok with it. At least I have greater confidence. This is just part of the process.

I can't even stress to you just how important it is to NOT get mad at yourself over a small loss. A SMALL LOSS IS STILL A LOSS! And it does matter in the long run.

I would much rather have lost .6 than to have gained .2 or stayed the same.

So, this week went well. I actually probably ate less than I should have. I am learning that it is important to eat all of the calories that are required on your plan so that you metabolism stays working at a higher level. This will be a change for me.

How did your weeks go? It really helps me to learn from others!

Flashback Friday- Man, I love this kid!

2009-01-09T11:14:00.000-08:00

These are pictures of my brother Joel. He is three years younger than me. Which means he is 16... ok...maybe not.

He has and always will be there for me. Even though he is married and has a life of his own, I know that if I ever needed him he would be there. No questions.

That is just how our family rolls.

He is funny, probably the smartest person I know, fiercely protective, mysterious, cautious, thoughtful and a very quiet romantic. He doesn't need anyone to know how much he loves his wife. He knows that he only needs her to know.

He also has the ability to see through the clouds of life and get right down to the issues. There is no emotion when he is giving advice. He has already thought it through and knows that there is just no better advice.

Happy Birthday little brother! We lived through the same memories, we are bonded more than any of the others. I wouldn't trade the memories for our relationship! I love you!

Hey Chelsea!!! You want a chipolte...I WANT A PINKBERRY!!!!

2009-01-05T20:47:00.000-08:00

I read about this place in Weight Watchers Magazine. It is rumored to have frozen yogurt that the highest cup value is 2 points!!!!! WHAT?????!!!!????? So, I checked it out to see if perhaps I missed a new construction plan and was met with great frustration...they aren't around here!!!!!

It almost makes me want to go to New York City...if I wasn't a complete people a phobe!

Song of the week- Revelation Song

2009-01-04T19:24:00.000-08:00

If you don't know this...you should! It is amazing!!!

Have you guys heard this? Do you know this? Maybe I am the last?

Slim Down Sundays! ME TOO ME TOO!!!

2009-01-04T11:21:00.001-08:00

I agree! Hollie great idea! I would love to be accountable to give a recap of my week..the good, the bad and the ugly!

This week I started back on weight watchers. I actually did what it seems everyone is doing and started back on January 1st!!!! I actually loathe doing things that are typical. But...I figured to put my personal feelings aside to focus on starting today instead of "starting tomorrow".

I am working on jam packing my diet with "filling foods". That is the key ingredient in the weight watchers new momentum plan. I am eating beets(personally one of my favorite veggies), big salads and apples. There are not alot of points used on these foods and they do leave you feeling satisfied so I can use some of my points on yummy salad dressings that are not terribly low fat.

We had dinner last night with our friends the Viercks! It was SO MUCH FUN!!! They are such wonderful hosts and we all had a blast! I was able to stay on point during the meal and had alot of fun focusing on the company and not the food! (THANKS SO MUCH MARTY AND HEATHER!!!!)

So, there we have it. I am trying to just take this one day at a time. I am quite surprised by how many things that I like to eat are lower points that I thought...I just can't eat ALL of the chinese food or ice cream! Portion control apparently matters ;)

Have a great week! I love reading all the slim down sunday entries!!!! Thanks again for the suggestion Hollie!

And...Im back!

2009-01-01T17:40:00.000-08:00

To weight watchers that is. I know...I should be a pro by now but alas...I am proving that I am not too good at this!

So I started today. I knew it was coming and wanted to get through the CHINESE FOOD GLORY that is our new years tradition!

I would like to lose 35lbs by April 25th. I think it is a pretty realistic goal, but I am nervous because I have alot of work related goals. I am a one track goal minded girl and I don't want to compromise my work goals for my ww goals. I would like to try to find a healthy balance of the two. But...I don't really do balance well.

So, here I go!!!

Goodbye 2008

2008-12-31T07:39:00.000-08:00

Wow, I know...I say it all the time but this year did pass by rather quickly. I guess the speed puts new meaning to all the sappy country songs like "don't blink". I actually find myself tearing up listening to those songs and my children aren't even all out of diapers yet!

This year has proved to be an easier one. And we have so much to praise God for! I will list only a few.

-Sean has had a steady job with lots of work for the entire year. He has worked hard to "not be at the bottom of the ladder" and God has graciously put him into a company that would never have an intention of letting him go. This stability is something that we have NEVER had in our marriage.

-I have been blessed through my work with Uppercase. It is more than just extra money to me. I have met women with whom I have become great friends with and shared my passion for creating a feeling in a room that you can't achieve with a can of paint. These words are just stickers on a wall but for some of us they have become a reminder of why we keep moving forward. Ever since we put up our first expression (Carey, faithful to God and Each Other), I have been reminded to be faithful to God first with everything I do and then to each other. It is a good thing.

-The twins continue to push forward in reading and writing. I am not sure if I have shared this before but they both have been lagging in these areas. The great thing about them is that they are really excited about learning and haven't given up. God has encouraged us and them through positive reinforcement and talks about how "God gave us all different strengths". These are life lessons that you just don't get in a classroom. Sometimes struggle rs prevail!!!! (I was a struggler)

-Kyla got into all day kindergarten. Again, this was not a selfish decision to put her into the lottery, but because we both knew she was more than ready. During conferences her teacher(whom we love) shared with us that our Kyla is excelling in reading and writing(probably because she has been watching the twins). She also said that Kyla is really focused and driven by her tasks. This is exciting because it might mean that she is a completely different learner than her older sisters. I am sure she will also have struggles but we have yet to find them. God knows that we have enough with the twins at the moment!

-Gracie is potty trained! There is not much to be said there...but she is and it is great! She is also a delight to be around and about the cutest thing you have ever seen!

-Kendell...well, she is cute too. We went through some really difficult days and nights with her. She is strong willed like her mother and UNCLE KYLE and that is proving to be quite a challenge...but we are talking about praises!!!! So, she is showing improvement. The good thing about my girls is that there "terrible twos" stage seems to be from year 1 to year 2 so I am praying she follows suit! Being number 5 is probably not the position she would have voted to be in!

-We also began recovering a relationship with Sean's parents this year. For those of you who knew that situation that is a HUGE praise!

So that about sums up some of my praises.

My friends, you are a constant source of support and unconditional love in my life. Without you I am not me. I pray for all of you to have an awesome praiseful 2009!!!

Prayers Please

2008-12-30T09:51:00.000-08:00

I don't know why I am asking...but I feel the need to ask you to pray for April and her baby girl. This week coming marks her 27th week of pregnancy, the one that she gave birth to the boys in.

Please pray that her doctor moniters her progress correctly(it wasn't done properly with her first pregnancy), that the shots that she is taking push her furthur and furthur towards term, and that her baby remains healthy and perfect.

When she had the boys it was a real reminder of how twin pregnancies are not casual expected perfection. I was very niave when I was pregnant with the girls. I expected them to be delivered close to term(and they were) and I expected them to come home with me(and they did).

This was not the case for April's boys. I was so pulled out of the bubble of perfection when I visited the NICU to see April's boys. God has been gracious to April's boys. They are perfect little stinkers and are now almost 3. Things couldn't have gone better for them despite their early arrival.

I thank you my friends so much for your prayers. I have witnessed her heartbreak while the boys were in the hospital and pray that she never has to experience that again.

Oh my how they have grown

2008-12-29T11:58:00.000-08:00

I happend on these photos that I thought were long gone on a hard drive crash...crazy how fast our kiddos grow!

Kiara

Gracie

Gracie

Kendell

Kellyn and Kiara

Kyla and Kiara

Kyla

My mom and Gracie

Kyla's Weekend!

2008-12-22T08:11:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures of Kyla's weekend. She had alot of fun and it was great spending time with just her!

Help!!!

2008-12-15T10:22:00.000-08:00

Ok, I have searched the web with no answers so I was hoping someone out there might be able to help!

I am looking for a kids cooking class for my two almost 8 year olds. One of them is particularily fond of cooking and chooses to watch the food network over Hannah Montana(weird...I know!). The other one although seems interested in helping isn't as obsessed.

So, do you know of a class??? Do you know someone who would be willing to do classes???

I know...I should be doing this...and I do. I let them help with different dishes and non-frozen ;) items, but I know that if they went to a class they might get a different experience than...mom!

So, please!!!! If you know...leave me a comment!

THANKS!!!

Here it comes!

2008-12-10T08:06:00.000-08:00

K3 is turning SIX!!!!!!!! WOWZA! When did that happen!

So, to celebrate her sixth birthday Sean and I asked her if she wanted to go to the waterpark hotel like her sisters did. Just Sean, K3 and I will be going...and she said..."no".

She doesn't like the water like her twin sisters do. She is the "holds onto the rail" kind of kid and that is ok with me(not as ok with my water loving husband!).

So, instead of the water park hotel we are going to Pheasant Run for an overnight and then to the Mariott Lincolnshire theater to see Aladdin!!!!!

And because she LOVES clothes I got her this to wear!

I am not sure who is more excited. Honestly, I just LOVE spending time with one child at a time. There is something that happens that is typically amazing. You learn about that child as an individual. This is why we do "dates" with our kids. Ever since the twins were old enough we have been taking only one out with us.

So this is Kyla's birthday gift! Shhhhhhhhh! ;)

Updates

2008-12-07T07:00:00.001-08:00

Thank you everyone who has been praying for my grandma who has cancer.

She had her kidney removed on Friday in Peoria and was doing quite well after her recovery.

Unfortunatly a very different picture was painted when I called my brother Kyle to ask if the flowers we had ordered had arrived yet.

When I got him on the phone he sounded very out of breath and at first thought, I figured he was out in a field with my dad in Peoria taking pictures and had been running around a bit in the cold. But then I realized he was crying...

I said..."Kyle, what's wrong" and after a very labored pause said "someone just died". "Someone just died?" I asked? "grandma?" and he said "yes".

After that all went blank. I remember wailing on the floor, the girls running down the steps to see what was wrong and instantly crying because they had never seen me so upset. I remember setting the phone down after hearing Kyle wailing on the other end. And I remember hanging up the phone.

And then as I was holding my three oldest girls the way a mother lion would hold them tight to her so that the world couldn't get to them, I prayed. I told God that it was ok. I told God that I didn't understand his plan but that he had a plan and I knew that. And then I couldn't stop saying "I'm so sorry" to the girls.

The thing is, Grandma has really recently been able to be a part of our lives again. In fact, she has been at my parents house more in the last two years than probably in all my years combined. She had been taking care of my grandpa since he got sick when I was a preteen and that devotion to him kept him alive, but also kept them a bit distant. So having her in our lives now has been such an amazing gift. Not only to my mom, dad, brothers and sisters but also to my girls.

I have written about her before. She is a different kind of grandma. An amazing one and when I couldn't stop saying "i'm so sorry" to my girls it was because I thought they had just lost someone that they had just started to spend a good amount of time with. Even the younger ones were starting to become really comfortable with nanna being around.

So, flash back to yesterday afternoon. After I held the girl for a few minutes, I called Sean and told(wailed) that he needed to come home and he was on his way.

No sooner had I hung up the phone that the phone was ringing. It was my brother kyle calling.

and he says "she's back, they got a pulse".

I didn't realize it but she hadn't been dead for awhile but had just coded when I called. The worst possible timing.

The news unfolded throughout the afternoon and Grandma is doing quite well now. They think that her respatory arrest was due to a medication issue and are expecting a full recovery.

I told the girls when I found out that she was going to make a full recovery "Now, don't you ever forget this day. If you ever in your life doubt that there is a God, remember this day"

My life changed yesterday. The "stuff" went foggy. The Christmas glitter, toys, money, cars, things...just went foggy. There was no "thing" that mattered.

I am resting in his promise, as I started when I first found out that she had cancer.

He has a plan and his plan is for good!

Thank you all for your continued prayers. I am sure that Grandma will want to be up and running soon, but please pray that she is able to do things in the proper timing and that she doesn't experience any more lapses.

Out of the mouth of babes

2008-12-05T12:00:00.000-08:00

So this morning K1 walked into my bedroom and said-

K1-"mom, do you know that the Christmas tree is like God?"
Me- "what?"
K1-"the Christmas tree is like God?"
Me-"what?"
K1-(now agrivated) "the Christmas tree is like God?"
Me- "oh...like God."(I couldn't tell what she was saying)"why?"
K1-"well, the tree is like God and the lights are like his angels surrounding him, and the branches show us how he can change our lives"(seriously...direct quote)
Me- "K1, did you hear about that in church or read it?"
K1- "no mom, I was just thinking about it"

Ummm...seriously...wow.

Beatmyprice.com

2008-12-04T10:56:00.000-08:00

This one is for all you deal seekers out there!!!

I think I just found my very favorite new web site.

I think everyone knows just how obsessed I am about getting the best online deals for items. In fact...sometimes I spend days waiting for the price to drop on certain things.

So, if you like me are doing some christmas shopping online WAIT to click submit until you check your item on this new site.

What you do is go to www.beatmyprice.com and fill out the simple form. No need for registering, giving your name, or buying from them. They are a people powered website which provides website where you can get your item cheaper.

And, if you don't already know about these other sites be sure to check them out as well.

www.slickdeals.net
www.retailmenot.com

I never hit submit without checking these two...now three sites!

Enjoy!

Day Three of Preperation

2008-12-03T15:00:00.000-08:00

If you read my blog prior to this about the advent calendar on Willows website you may have read today's "preperation message". If not you can check it out here.

I reflected on this message today and had a thought.

How amazing is our God to allow us as women to be the ones to share in the experience of child birth the same way that Mary did.

Ok...maybe not the same way. I realize that modern medicine has made things...well....ahem....easier! But my point really is that as mothers there is a common thread. An unspoken bond that typically occurs after one has delivered their first child.

How amazing that our God chose to link us to Mary. I sit here today knowing that if she were to knock on my door at this very minute, she would know as I know what it was like to bring life into this world. She would know what it was like to hold the small hand of Jesus and feel his sweet breath on her face as she looked over his amazing features.

She would know what it was like to feel bonded to a stranger just moments after his arrival.

This is something that our God chose for women. What a priveledge!

An Invitation...by God

2008-12-01T08:03:00.000-08:00

This season is so hard. Whether your life is going well or going more difficult than years past, this season intensifies just what is going on in your heart.

So for a minute, forget the hustle and bustle, the friends and family and all the lists that you haven't checked off yet.

For a minute reflect on where you are with God.

Do you still hear him? Do you long for him to change your life or the lives of someone close to you? Do you seek him only to find that he is silent? Do you want more of him?

Or like me, do you rush through your day thinking you can do it all by yourself and find that you are more stressed because you didn't invite God to help you through it all?

Yesterday at church, we were ushered into the the prescence of God only to be given quite a gift.

Do you have an advent calendar??? Maybe like me your children love putting on the different items, pulling open little boxes or finding the small chocolate or trinket inside each day.

What if each day you had an advent calendar of sorts with God? What if each day you opened up your heart to prepare ROOM for God? Would your Christmas be different?

I am taking the Prepare challenge delivered to us yesterday at church and signing up for the daily advent email. I don't know what is in store but I can promise you that I have never seen anything that wasn't God inspired from this church.

So if you like me would like to see what this is all about go here.

And then if you are "in" maybe you would like to join our family for a Christmas Eve service at our church. I know you won't be disapointed. In fact this christmas service has been the most life changing tradition in our family for probably at least 15 years now. I promise you won't be disapointed. And I would bring all children with! There is childcare for children ages 5 and under(although I think a 5 year old and probably a 4 year old would love it). There are services at 1pm,3pm,5pm and 7pm on Christmas Eve, so if you already have plans perhaps you can still fit this in. Again, I can't stress to you just how amazing it is.

If you want more info let me know.

Photo day!

2008-11-26T19:35:00.000-08:00

Well, as some of you can imagine getting 5 little girls dressed and ready for pictures is less than appealing to me! In fact...I loathe portrates because of it!

BUT!!!!!

We went today and had the best photo shoot so far.

We went to JCPenney and the girl who took the photos was great with my girls, and knew where to position us! FINALLY!!!!! Someone with half a brain taking photos!

I can't wait to share them with you. They are really good! AND...so affordable! We ended up getting in at just the right time where there was a 50% off coupon for your entire order.

So I got

-1 10 x 13 for us
-1 8 x 10 for my parents
-1 8 x 10 for Sean's parents
-1 5 x 7 for my grandma(nanna)
-1 5 x 7 for my maternal grandparents

-60 Photo Christmas Cards w/envelopes

-4 5 x 7's of just Kyla(it's her birthday month)
-4 5 x 7's of just Gracie(again, her birthday month)

Grand total?????? $75 and change!!!!!! I couldn't believe it! That was almost $1 per photo!

So, needless to say...I know where we are going in January when the twins turn 8!

Pictures from our weekend away!

2008-11-26T06:28:00.000-08:00

Photo of our view off the balcony.

Sean and I went to Galena this weekend. It was great! The best part about it was that it was paid for prior to our departure, making the stress of spending money less difficult.

We stayed at Eagle Ridge Resort in the villas. Our was cottage-y. We also had dinner at the resort one night and room service breakfast one morning(all included in our package).

The smartest and best thing we did was book our stay through a travel agent(my friend, Lisa). The reason that this became so important was b/c our origional room that we were booked for apparently had a problem with the heat. We were informed upon arrival that we could get an upgrade and we did take the upgrade b/c quite frankly...it was cold and I would like heat!

So we went on our merry way with our upgrade and when we got home I told Lisa what had happend. She quickly gathered the facts and called Eagle Ridge because she felt that we should have gotten more than an upgrade.(I have had experience with this type of thing before...and hotels aren't great about doing anything for the individual person...me)

So, after about 2 hours Lisa called me and told me that they would be refunding 20% of our package price back onto my debit card!!!!! I don't know exactly what she said but I do know a few great things about using a travel agent.

1. She had availability for checking into dates/packages that we couldn't see online.

2. Her rates were better.

3. She has more "pull" if there was a problem.

I know Lisa, she is great at customer service and I am so glad that she went to bat for us!

My jaw dropped open...

2008-11-23T12:59:00.000-08:00

Read this.

There is no one like our God!

Well this is encouraging!

2008-11-17T15:30:00.000-08:00

This is how far I am to acheiving my goal of earning my free cruise from Uppercase Living. You need 40000 points and there are different ways to earn them.

Considering I have until the end of June to get the rest of my points!!!! I am SO encouraged by this number, and I am not even done putting through my november sales!!!

thought this was interesting.

2008-11-14T08:59:00.000-08:00

I stole this from someone.

Question 1:

If you knew a woman who was pregnant, who had 8 kids already, three who were deaf, two who were blind, one mentally retarded, and she had Syphilis, would you recommend that she have an abortion?

Read the next question before looking at the response for this one

Question 2:

It is time to elect a new world leader, and only your vote counts.

Here are the facts about the three candidates. Who would you vote for?

Candidate A.

Associates with crooked politicians, and consults with an astrologer.

He's had two mistresses. He also chain smokes and drinks 8 to 10 martinis a day

Candidate B.

He was kicked out of office twice, sleeps until noon, used opium in

College and drinks a quart of whiskey every evening.

Candidate C

He is a decorated war hero. He's a vegetarian, doesn't smoke, drinks an

Occasional beer and never cheated on his wife.

Which of these candidates would be our choice?

Decide first... No peeking, then scroll down for the response.

Candidate A is Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Candidate B is Winston Churchill.

Candidate C is Adolph Hitler.

And, by the way, on your answer to the abortion question:

If you said YES, you just killed Beethoven.

Pretty interesting isn't it? Makes a person think before judging someone.

I should be...

2008-11-04T08:58:00.001-08:00

Sorting this growing pile of laundry. But alas...I am too swept up in the election and my G1 or K4 if you will!

p.s.-still vote for mccain

Once every four years...

2008-11-04T06:39:00.000-08:00

This is the only day that I regret not becomming an American citizen. You have no idea just how lucky you are to give your voice a vote today. Don't take this for granted.

So, I want to know...What are you telling your kids about the election today? Are you telling them who you are voting for and why you choose that candidate? Are you involving them in learning about the electoral process?

p.s.-vote for mccain

Flashback Friday

2008-10-31T09:43:00.001-07:00

In leiu of this being Halloween, I thought I would share a photo from last years halloween festivities.

And here is one from this year. And yes, Kiara is wearing FAKE glasses! She has been wearing them to school as well because she just loves to look just like Kellyn. In fact she cried at the eye doctors office because she didn't need glasses as I was jumping up and down with glee! None the less, the fake plastic glasses are still doing their trick!

Have a safe and happy halloween everyone!

My biggest pet peeve.

2008-10-29T10:09:00.001-07:00

People.who.aren't.real.

Ok, this might come off as a rant and I don't know that I care...but honestly people!

If you choose to display your life as being perfect you are not only lying to others but you are lying to yourself.

And I have no idea how you expect to grow if you are constantly telling others that things are perfect. Especially as you are telling them that you value their friendship or that you need them in your life.

So please I am begging you...get real!

And just for the record
1. My marriage is not perfect
2. I am not the perfect mother
3. My life is not perfect
4. My house is certainly not perfect or perfectly clean
5. My relationship with God is not perfect

AND THAT IS OK!!!!!

Thankfully God created us to be not perfect but made new in him. OH THANK YOU FOR SAVING GRACE!

And he created us as women to come alongside of each other during "not so perfect" times.

P.S.-I have decided that when women choose to pretend that things are perfect it is because they don't trust each other. It's almost like trusting that their friends could be there for them is too scary.

Flashback Friday.

2008-10-24T10:04:00.001-07:00

These are pictures from when the twins were 4 months old. I am not really sure who is who in the picture but I do know that I loved that outfit that they are wearing because it is green and not pink! I had alot of pink.

My sister leah is holding the babies in the tip left picture. She is now a junior in high school.

Update from the house!

2008-10-22T07:09:00.000-07:00

Just for you leah!(She says I need to update more!)

Well, alot of things have been going on(as usual). I thought I would share the highlights!

-My grandma's test results came back and her cancer is localized to one kidney. This is GREAT GREAT GREAT news because she should be able to have remove the cancer completely without furthur cemo or radiation! Praise God!

-Sean found out that YES indeed he did pass his weld inspection test. This is really great news because it has a very high failure rate and means that he is now... Sean Carey C.W.I. Something that he has wanted and will increase his income and job security! Praise God!

-I am a busy girl as usual! I am working hard at acheiving my cruise goal and am past 40% at the moment! I have until the end of July to reach the 100% mark! SWEEEEET! I have something like 13 parties in the beginning of November! Praise God!

-The guinea pigs are doing great. We are working on accuratly determining their genders so that they can be "picked" out for their new homes! Really people...guinea pigs are great pets! I am surprised at just how friendly and fun they are! Still no bites!

Other than that, the girls are all doing well. I can't believe it is almost November and I am dreading the Illinois winter. Too cold, too frigid, too much snow! But I do love that we have seasons when there are some who don't. I love fall and pray it sticks around for a long time!

Oh yeah, Kyla got her hair cut off! She was able to donate her hair to locks of love and this is her new do!

And here is Gracie at her first hair cut!

Ah hem...excuse me...what is this???

2008-10-16T18:46:00.000-07:00

Oh yeah...here are the babies that the two preggo guines delivered this afternoon...about 30 minutes apart.

Finally got my pictures from our Chicago trip!

2008-10-16T14:21:00.000-07:00

Awhile ago I went on a girls night out to Chicago with some of my friends. We stayed at some hotel(I can't remember), and ate at the melting pot downtown. It was great and much needed when you always have little ones at your feet. Here are some of the pics!

Check this out?

2008-10-15T07:10:00.000-07:00

Have you seen these yet? I was pleasantly surprised to find these in the Farm and Fleet toyland catalog after seeing them in the Parents magazine as one of the hottest toys of the season.

I think K4 will LOVE LOVE LOVE them!!! Now...trying to find them all, without breaking the bank! I have always been a sucker for super grover!!!

Here is a link to what amazon has available. http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_gw?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=elmo+knex&x=13&y=19

You can now order online!!!

2008-10-14T13:16:00.001-07:00

AWESOME! Now you can go to my website and order securly with the orders shipping to your house!

SWEET!!! Check it out

http://erin.uppercaseliving.net

The maternity ward.

2008-10-13T15:03:00.000-07:00

Need I say more???

Thanks!!!

2008-10-13T12:31:00.000-07:00

Apparently Stephanie loves my blog and has tagged me.

Here are the rules:
I have to answer the following questions with one word answers and one word only!
Then I must pass it on to seven others.

The questions are as follows:
1.Where is your cell phone? Ummm...I think in my drawer???
2.Where is your significant other? Working
3.Your hair color? Dark Brown
4.Your mother? Kind
5.Your father? In Charge
6.Your favorite thing? ever???? Seafood?
7.Your dream last night? I don't remember.
8.Your dream/goal? Goal is to reach my FREE cruise!
9.The room you're in? Rec
10.Your hobby? Stamping
11.Your fear? Suffocation
12.Where do you want to be in 6 years? not in a looney bin!
13.Where were you last night? home
14.What you're not? a follower
15.One of your wish list items? Grandma's health
16.Where you grew up? Canada/Wheaton/Woodstock
17.The last thing you did? Packets for work
18.What are you wearing? shorts and a tshirt
19.Your t.v.? upstairs and colored???
20.Your pet? Oh no...Um 7 fish and 6 guinea pigs...
21.Your computer? Annoying slow!
22.Your mood? Anxious
23.Missing someone? Sure
24.Your car? Soccer mom mobile
25.Something you're not wearing? glasses
26.Favorite store? lately...Petco or Petsmart :)
27.Your summer? busy
28.Love someone? yes
29.Favorite color? dark blue
30.Last time you laughed? today
31.Last time you cried? Thursday

Tip time Monday!

2008-10-13T11:24:00.000-07:00

Well, I have been slacking!

No longer can I afford the luxury of the "woo hoo I am breastfeeding and losing weight like a shrinking woman" syndrome!

So, I thought I would post a tip. Something that has worked for me in the past and because I am re-dedicated, *should* work for me again!

Here we go-

Tip #1

When starting a diet(I am still doing points) try to schedule a daily routine.

So for example-

Breakfast
steel cut oats(7 points)
Coffee(1 point)

Lunch
Lean Cuisine Meal(between 4 and 7 points)
Piece of fruit(between 1 and 2 points depending on the size)

Dinner
Huemungo Salad(between 8 and 10 point)

I will then follow the same schedule for about a week. This trains my brain and stomache to begin to realize that feedings are not a free for all!

When this is working I will switch things in and out. Like 1 point yogurt, small ice cream cups, fiber one cereal etc.

Oh and I only drink coffee, water, and tea during this "phase".

I am not sure if this helps but it has certainly helped me in the past!

Some cuddle time

2008-10-12T18:03:00.000-07:00

Where the rubber hits the road.

2008-10-12T12:37:00.000-07:00

Grandma called me last week. She got the results of her biopsy and

she.has.cancer.

Well, that news hit me weird. Its not like we didn't know that cancer could be a possiblity. When you hear the words "mass" or "biopsy" you tend to think of all the possibilities. So when she called with the news I had already prepared myself for the worst news. And now that the dreaded "C" word has been made known we are in a different ballpark.

There are a few things that we know for certain in what seems like a sea of unknowns.

1. God is still here. He isn't surprised, or "worried". He promises to be there for Grandma and his word is true. This might sound like "religious words" that people say to make themselves think that things are ok, but God has been faithful and I am certain he will continue to be.

2. Kidney cancer is not a terrible cancer to have. WOW! I say this with my tougue firmly placed on my cheek. I don't have any type of cancer at the moment so I probably shouldn't be saying this. It's just that as my sister Leah pointed out "you have two kidneys and people are lining up to give theirs away!". Nice. It's true though. If this cancer hasn't gone travelling then losing a kidney to get rid of this isn't the worse thing that could happen. People live complete normal lives with just one kidney.

3. Grandma is in the care of doctors that she trusts and has people surrounding her who love her and can take care of her. I think it would be fantastic if grandma called and said "I'm coming to stay forever right now!" but that isn't happening at the moment. Grandma is a nurse by trade and has nurse friends who know how to care for others. So, at the moment(hopefully sooner than later though) grandma will stay in her town. She worked at the hospital which she will more than likely have the surgery in and knows the people. Quite an advantage in this day and age!

So, there you have it folks. Grandma's news changes our lives but not our faith. We still trust that God is in control and I am so glad!!! If I had to figure out this one on my own I would be lost.

And a few more...

2008-10-09T13:03:00.000-07:00

Here are the two babies that we left on Saturday at the rescue. We told the rescue owner(who really only rescues bunnies) that we would come back for them if she didn't find a home for them.

So, they are pretty little still. About 1/2 the size of the big girls(and about 1/3 the size of cinder!). They are red and white and sisters from the same litter.

They are named Autumn and Bridget.

Here they are!

Here they are!

2008-10-07T11:12:00.000-07:00

We picked up these FOUR girls from the rescue on Saturday and have had so much fun getting to know them and watch them play! For those who are wondering...they haven't bitten us once!!!

Here are some pictures!

This is their cage. It is made of the cube sets that stack. This is a great way to make a cheap but big cage so that they have alot of free play room. There is even a "balcony" for those who would like to get away from the crowd for a bit!

This is Kyla's piggy Ariel.

This is Aurora who belongs to Kiara.

This is Cinderella or Cinder for short. She belongs to Kellyn.

This is Luca. She belongs to all of us. We weren't intending to get four piggies but she had just had her babies taken from her too early and was just so sweet and calm...we couldn't resist!

So there you have it! They are pretty cool and are getting along quite well!

And even now...

2008-10-03T11:54:00.000-07:00

I am reminded softly of my grandma who had her biopsy today.

Oh sweet Jesus, Savior of the world, come now and show yourself. Be there with grandma in the quiet of her day. Speak to her the reassurance that only you can give. Heal anything inside that needs healing. We praise you because you have called us by name and I praise you because you called grandma before me to be a beacon of light in our family. I thank you for her today and always. In Jesus' name- Amen.

Do you know this site???

2008-10-03T08:24:00.000-07:00

For those of us moms who are always looking for a great day outdoors in the fall, I happend upon this site. I hope you can find it just as helpful as I have.

And...I was always looking for a Christmas Tree Farm list!!!

Flashback Friday

2008-10-03T07:59:00.000-07:00

Wow, I love this idea! Thanks to this blog which I read daily, I have decided to try to do one of these per week.

This might not be too much of a "flashback" but I do feel like this picture reminds me of ancient history.

I don't know about you but every time I have a baby I quickly lose the memories of that time in labor, or the times holding my baby for the first times, nursing her, bonding...

I often catch a glimpse of who my babies were when they were little from photos or videos and am smacked in the face again. Oh so badly I want to stop time.

They are growing and the one in the picture is now saying words like "backpack"...YIKES! That is kinda crazy!

And now that Sean and I are approaching the date that we met almost 10 years ago I have found myself stumbling to remember what it was like. I ask him to remind me about those first few days. Not because I feel like what we have now isn't enough but because I am afraid I am losing the memories.

So here is my question.... How do you stop time? How do you remember to savour every moment? I wonder what it would look like for God to slow me down and remind me of the sweetness that each stage in life brings???

SWEEEEEETTTTT!!!!!

2008-10-01T11:24:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, October 1

Poster All Worship Night (7 p.m.)
Willow Creek McHenry County welcomes Charlie Hall and his band to their stage at 220 Exchange Dr. on Wednesday, October 1, at 7 p.m.

Since 1991, Charlie Hall has been traveling, songwriting, and sharing life with people in his home of Oklahoma City, and across the United States, and even across several oceans. Charlie has created several albums of diverse music. The latest is "The Bright Sadness".

The concert is free to the public. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Childcare is available for children up to 5 years of age.

We are getting a new pet!

2008-10-01T08:28:00.000-07:00

Some would guess the typical pet...dog, cat, etc.

But we are getting a CAVY!!!

What is a cavy you ask??? Well the other name for Cavy is Guinea Pig!

Sean and I have been thinking about getting a dog for awhile now and although we think we could handle the responsibility we decided that for the time being we needed to get something that was a little less reliant on our schedules.

So we have been researching Guinea Pigs and have taken a first step towards owning a pair(they apparently like to be with a friend), by purchasing these wire cube kits. They are used to create an enclosure that will allow free range and a greater space than the old plastic cages would.

There have been some really great websites that have helped with our decision and "layout" for our cage.

One such website is here.

I was absolutly amazed when I realized just how neat this could be. We are excited to be on the road to cavy ownership!!!! And I am so glad the girls are participating in the steps that it will take to bring ours home.

A call to prayer.

2008-09-23T08:56:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we came home from an almost restful vacation to St.Louis. I say almost restful because quite frankly, there isn't alot of rest when you are travelling with 5 children and your spouse is basically working 8 hours per day. He was gone and my youngest darling didn't know what was going on. She was frustrated with the fact that everything was new and things as simple as her bed were missing. BUT we did have a great time, and it was wonderful for the girls to experience what a vacation feels like, or a hotel for an extended stay, or the numerous museums, animals and dining out! Two of them didn't want to come home, one of them was so excited to come home and get back to school, and the other two well, they are here with me trying to get back into our routine!

When we got home my mom came over to catch up and see the girls. She told me when she came that my grandma(dad's side) was in the hospital last week because she thought she was having a heart attack. Thankfully, she was not and was given a clean bill of health except for the mass that was found on her kidney. So, I ask you to pray! Because I know that God heals and that he can move mountains I ask that you pray with the belief that he will heal her and is already doing so. The Bible clearly speaks to us about casting our cares on him, FEARING NOT and about how God knows the plans and that they are for our good. So, I am claiming his promises. God is not surprised about this, he is still here and knows what is going on. And because I could spend alot of time worrying about what could happen, I am choosing to believe that he is going to do what he promises! And I ask that you join me in doing so. And for those of you who don't know my grandma, I can't begin to tell you how really amazing she is. She has never been a typical grandma. She has a creative flare that is to be desired by all and loves others with the love of Jesus. Truly one of God's chosen to be a light on this earth!

And because I know you read this grandma, please know that YOU ROCK! Love you!!!!

I just joined!

2008-09-12T08:30:00.000-07:00

Check out Nate's latest posting about entering the Bone Marrow Donation program. It is free right now and was a pretty simple task to complete the registration information. I have always wanted to sign up but didn't want to pay the $50 to join.

Here's the linky
And the promo code that I used to get it free is NASC262101

My book girl

2008-09-11T11:01:00.001-07:00

Certainly not my first book girl! She found her way to the love seat as I was working on an order today and piled up the books next to her.

What do you do for fun???

2008-09-11T10:58:00.001-07:00

I entertain 2 year olds!!!!!

Update on the chip in!

2008-09-09T14:43:00.000-07:00

((emailed out this afternoon))

I just want to take a minute and thank all of you who have given so far to this family! We are at 26% of the goal needed and I am just blown away by the generosity of those who I know can relate with this family.

I am also so thankful to those of you who have sent information about possible jobs, side jobs, and other places of "help" for this family. All of these have been passed along and the family is a bit more optimistic because of you! Those of you who are praying for this family are so needed! I believe so strongly in the power of prayer and so does this family. Believe it or not but the prayer is of the same value as the monetary gifts.

For those of you who haven't had a chance to give to this wonderful family, I urge you to think about a donation. Perhaps like us some of your bills were suprisingly not as high as expected. This money would mean the difference of electricity, a vehicle to drive and apply places, a phone line to call for job updates, and food for this family. Not to mention the security of knowing that there are those out there who care enough about fellow american's that they were willing to give of themselves. That can be an extreme moral boost during trying times.

Please continue to check out this calculator to see where we are "at", and spread the word to those who might be able to help!

http://www.chipin.com/mywidgets/id/7f1954418a96f265

I really do thank each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart. I pray that God blesses you over and again because of your gifts!

Chip in to this needy family!

2008-09-08T10:20:00.000-07:00

(Emailed out this afternoon)
Hello Everyone-

It is with a thankful heart that I come to you all asking you to consider helping out a family in need.

I don't know about you but I feel so blessed at this time. My husband has a stable job, my business is booming, my children are beautiful, healthy and happy and yet there are so many who wish that they could have a list like ours.

One of these families is very dear to my heart. They are a twenty something couple from Harvard who have three small children(4,3,1). Last week the husband got laid off from his construction job and they are in the "limbo" weeks waiting for the unemployment checks to kick in. In the meantime they are both applying like crazy for jobs and trying to find side work in an economy that is unstable at best. They were the very first family who gave to our family when my husband was without an income due to his injury. At the time I was amazed because they are a young family themselves.

Their next immediate need are their September monthly bills. The need for this is $730. They do not expect the unemployment to kick in for another two weeks and these bills are due next week.

If you have any extra money to spare ($3, $5, what you can), please consider giving it to them using this "chip in" button. This money will go automatically into this families paypal account through your paypal account. If you have questions you can call me directly at 815/337-9613. This family DID NOT ask me to do this.

http://widget.chipin.com/widget/id/7f1954418a96f265

I am so thankful that there are those who I know will help this family out. And I thank you so much for reading this!

If you can't give financially please consider praying for this family or passing this email along to someone who might have a side job or know of a union carpenter company who is hiring.

Thanks again!

GO PINK PANTHERS!!!!!

2008-09-06T10:13:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few pictures from Kellyn and Kiara's very first ever soccer game.(and a few of the others who just had to be in on the action!) For those who don't know Kellyn is the one with the "tuft" of hair usually hanging down her forehead.(we are not allowed to talk about why though!!!LOL)

Time for Fly-La!

2008-09-04T14:45:00.000-07:00

Wow...she thought this day would never come! Kyla started kindergarten this week. She would say, "no mom, ALL DAY kindergarten!" if she heard me say that. The twins started second grade and are off to a great start as well!Here are some of our favorite pictures from the first days of school this week!

Just before going on Tuesday.

On the bus by herself on Wednesday.

Showing off her new backpack.

At orientation day on Tuesday.

Somethings missing....

2008-09-04T12:17:00.000-07:00

the mess!

And we are back on!

2008-08-23T11:14:00.000-07:00

St.Louis that is! We will be going for 9 days while Sean is at weld inspection school. The best part really is that it is a very cheap vacation for a family of our size. His company is paying for the gas and the hotel stay and in addition to that, the hotel that we are staying at(embassy suites) has a made to order hot breakfast every morning. We stayed in one in San Diego when the twins were 1 1/2 and you could practically eat a snack for lunch after filling yourself with breakfast!

So while Sean is at school(in the hotel) we will be able to go to the free zoo, free museum and other awesome cheap if not free attractions in St.Louis!

The only downfall is that we will be going on the third week into school for the girls. With that being said, I know that this will provide them with learning experiences that they can't get inside a classroom and we will be doing daily work(during naptime)so that we can keep up with the class.

Here fishy, fishy!!!

2008-08-20T16:13:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my husband picked up my latest ebay "winnings"! I love how ebay tells you that you "WON" something but yet...it's more like "you won, now pay".

Well...that is neither here nor there...

I thought I would share with you from the eye of a 15 month old baby exactly what we got!

The tank came complete with six different african cichlids(which...I don't know anything about)which apparently have lived well in this tank for a year together. I have to say that the hood and canopy sold me. It is great to have the tank encased so that little hands cannot reach inside.

Top Ten things going on in our house!

2008-08-13T15:48:00.001-07:00

1. K1 and K2 went to their very first SLEEPOVER yesterday!!! It went well...but definatly yeilded some sleepy girls today!

2. K4(or G1 rather) is still doing GREAT on the potty! She only had one accident today and is showing great progress.

3. Sean had a doctors appointment this morning with his ortho doctor who insists that he still needs surgery. Hopefully this trip will expedite this process so that we can go to arbitration to have the insurance company forced to pay for his surgery.

4. Yesterday was our 8th wedding anniversary! Exciting...I know! We went to pappadeaux for dinner and felt stuffed beyond belief just after our appetizer. Needless to say...I had my entree for lunch today!

5. K5 has taken quite a liking to her baby doll and is showing that she is quite the little mother. Isn't it funny how children at such a young age can show their natural instincts?

6. MY BESTEST FRIEND IS PREGNANT!!!!!!!! I love love love love love it! My best friends kids are the closest things my kids have to cousins so this GREAT! And...quite frankly I can't wait to snuggle a newborn and not have to nurse it!!! LOL

7. The girls have all their school supplies. All three of my girls who are going to school are ready! And, mommy is ready for the new routine as well!

8. My schedule for September is going to be FULL! If we still get to go away to St.Louis in September than I will really be busy! People still want to schedule their parties for September which is great, but I don't know where I am going to fit them in. Oh yeah...did I mention that I got a new website. You can check it out if you wish http://erin.uppercaseliving.net

9. We are loving our new church! There is a connection event this Sunday afternoon that we are looking forward to.

10. I am in the market for a new laptop. One just for me just for work. So...I think we are going to buy a dell. Or I am going to buy a dell rather. It is so nice to not have to figure out where the extra money is going to come from!!!!

Potty Training Series

2008-08-12T06:57:00.001-07:00

Such a Big Girl with her favorite Elmo undies!

Busy...

After the potty she gets her jelly beans!

I think I might need more beans!

We are proud of our Gracie!

This might have been our day!!!!!

2008-08-11T20:35:00.000-07:00

Well...today I decided about halfway through the day that Gracie needed to potty train. She knows when she goes, tells me right after and then proceeds to climb up on the changing table after getting the exact diaper and wipes that she wants.

ummmm...I am sorry....but her time has come!

So...I told her that she needed to go on the potty and sure enough she went!

I was shocked. And to date this has been the least stubborn reaction to something that I have asked her to do.(I don't know where she gets that!)

I am hesitant to say that I think she has it down. But at least this is a step in the right direction.

Oh and for those praying for my "mountain", thank you. The mountain still exists but at least it didn't grow if you know what I mean. I would like to see it shrink and am praying for some shrinkage but I know that God's timing is perfect and we only see a bit of his plan at a time.

Thanks for your prayers. Perhaps you could add Gracie's potty training to your list!

E

oh ME of little faith.

2008-08-04T15:45:00.000-07:00

Bombarded by thoughts....

I am so ripped by this. Why do I think that I am bigger than God...or rather why do I think that God is smaller than he is.

Why didn't I ask??? Why didn't I believe that he could go ahead of me. WHY DO I STEP BEFORE HIM?????

Why do I sit her terrified of a situation that is yet to come?

I know...I know....I know God! I know that you want more from me. I know that you called me before the creation of the world to be YOURS! I know. I know. I know. And I know that I ignore you. ANd I know that I doubt you. And I don't want to. I don't want to leave me without you. I need you. I need you. I can't do this. I am scared. I am terrified. I am alone. I am angry. I am sad.

And still you come to me and say "my child. Why are you afraid...for I know the plans that I have for you. I know them. Erin...be still. Do not be afraid. I am here. I am going before you. Don't ignore me. Look for me. I am here. You are not alone."

Greater things are yet to come and greater things are still to be done in this city!

Do I believe that he can? Do you believe that he can? Please tell me that you do. Have you seen him move the mountain in your life? Because I am about to stare my mountain in the face and I am so terrified.

Thank you.

2008-08-02T12:57:00.000-07:00

Thank you for your prayers. Sean's grandma passed away late last night.

We were able to see her on Thursday afternoon.

Please pray for hearts to be softened as we move through some difficult situations.

Because I believe our God can move mountains if he wanted to, I believe that he can soften even the hardest hearts.

So...again I ask you to pray.

Thanks.

Please Pray

2008-07-31T06:02:00.000-07:00

I got a call this morning from Sean's uncle and Sean's grandma has been given a very short amount of time to live.

For those of you who know the situation with Sean's parents and the complication that surrounds it, please pray.

We are planning on going over to grandma's house in Schaumburg this afternoon(that's the earliest we can go...Sean is in Springfield).

I am left staggered and wondering when this got so complicated. Relationships with family members aren't supposed to be hostile and this could potentially become a huge disaster. Please pray that God goes before us and smooths out wrinkles along the way so that we don't find ourselves in circumstances that shouldn't be important when we will be going to say goodbye to Sean's grandma.

I am honestly also terrified of meeting face to face with Sean's parents(we haven't seen them since I was pregnant with Gracie) and know that in the coming days it will probably be inevietable.

Also if you could, would you pray for my girls. Especially the oldest two. They don't know what is going on yet and I am having a hard time figuring out what to say to them. They know grandma but not really well.

July- Uppercase Month in Review!

2008-07-30T07:58:00.000-07:00

Well this has certainly been a month of blessings!

I don't know that I have really spent alot of my adult life really soaking in God's blessings. I am not a "stop to smell the roses" type of person. There is a drive in me to always keep moving, keep busy, keep active etc.

When I started Uppercase in February I had no idea just how much God would bless me through it. I know you are probably sick of hearing about my business and please understand that I am not writing this as a sales pitch. I am blessed by the customers that I have and by the encouragement of my friends and that is why I let everyone know what is going on.

So...back in February, I moved on what I thought would be a good business move for ME. Not really because of anything other than selfish motivation. I wanted to try to do something that I thought I "could" be good at and could bring in money for frivelous things...such as entertainment for our family(things that typically aren't in a strict budget).

But...God has moved me. I don't remember exactly the moment but I do know that God urged me to "give this to him". Just like he wants us to give everything to him...he wanted even my business. I know that I was trying to do it all on my own. Balancing kids, volunteering, working out AND my new business was something that I just thought I could do. And I didn't think GOD wanted to be a part of something as trivial as "wall stickers".

So...back to when it hit me. I was reading some blogs about Adoption and wondering why it was that everytime I turned around I got bombarded with another story about Adoption. It was almost weird. Then Stephanie wrote about her new baby who awaits her in Ethiopia and that's when it hit me. God kept bringing me to Poplar Grove. I joke that I sell uppercase in Poplar Grove every other week. But on my way to Poplar Grove God laid it on my heart to tithe to Stephanie and Josh off of my Uppercase profits. And ever since my first month, I have been following his will by donating to their "chip in" button their blog.

With that being said I can tell you that God has blessed me beyond what I could have imagined!

This past quarter(April,May and June) I was the TOP saleswoman for our team of UL demonstrators(around 350). THE TOP!!!!! I almost couldn't believe it when I saw it! There are some BIG names in this line...people with hundreds of demonstrators who they have recruited. And little old me from Woodstock Illinois had top sales? Hmmmm.....that is kinda strange!

On top of my sales being great(btw...my sales have only gotten better this quarter), I have recruited 4 others to join my team which means that on August 1st I will be promoted to Senior Demonstrator. With that title change I will make a greater percentage of profit and earn more points towards my free cruise.

I am so pleasantly surprised at what God is doing. My marriage is growing, my children are teaching me how to be patient ;), and these woman whom I am meeting and learning more about are reminding me about God's call in my own life. To do something greater than the average person. To model God's love. And that my friends...is why I am so very blessed!

WOO HOO!!!!!

2008-07-27T19:43:00.000-07:00

I am SO HAPPY!!!!!!! Tonight I hit my July sales goal of $4000 in sales and am ahead of target for my FREE cruise!!!! SWWWEEEEEET!(You can't see but I am doing a happy dance...and biting my lip!)

Seriously, I love love love my job!

My NEW catalog FREE stuff!!!

2008-07-23T07:24:00.001-07:00

So...when you become a Uppercase Living Demonstrator you automatically go into their "upstart" program for 90 days. In this program for every $400 open house that you submit you get $50 to use on anything in the catalog and that total can accumulate. SO...when I joined I set out to see how high I could get that number during my upstart and I earned over $600 in free product. I used over half of it on things for my house, hostess gifts and door prizes and I used the rest on THIS!!!!!

There are the new foundations boards(sign boards) that we are now selling, one of our new frameworks frames(with four change out acrylic panels to change with the seasons), circle theme pack for my bathroom, kitchen sign, laundry room sign, twins custom, gather together for thanksgiving, and various letters and small decals for gifts and door prizes. I was so excited to see the box arrive yesterday right before I left for my open house! It really helped the guests to see the frameworks frame and the foundations sign board in person to really give them a visual of what they can do!

Things are going quite well! Uppercase is giving us new websites in August(so we won't have the annoying demonstrator # and token problem!), and I will be promoted to Senior Demonstrator in August as well! I am super excited to be on target for cruise as well!!!! Good things all around! We thank God for blessing us through Uppercase!

Another Something NEW!!!!!

2008-07-08T13:30:00.001-07:00

I love this! It is going to be in the new catalog and I know exactly where to put it!!!! I found these blank distressed tin sign boards the other day at Joann's and this will be great!

I AM SO EXCITED!!!!! (Can you tell???LOL)

NEW Uppercase COLORS!!!!!

2008-07-08T13:26:00.000-07:00

I am so excited!!!!! These are the four new highly anticipated colors for our brand new fall/winter 2008 catalog!!!!!

They are whipped cream, Carribean Blue, Cherry Blossom and Sugared Plum!!!!! PERFECT! I am so happy to see a teal and a feathery pink! Man...I can imagine what that would look like in a baby girls room!!!

I will have new catalogs and color samples on Friday(if UPS pulls through!)

Month in Review-June!!!

2008-06-29T09:09:00.001-07:00

Well I can honestly say that I am pretty worn out from our crazy June! There have been many changes in our routine this month and if I was being honest with you...I am kinda frazzled! Here are some pictures to sum up some of the happenings!

K1 and K2 finished 1st Grade with flying colors!!!

K1,K2 and K3 all had dental exams and NONE OF THEM HAD CAVATIES...(kinda a big deal!)

K4 had a visit from the "pacifier fairy" and got a brand new Elmo backpack(shown) and a new elmo book. Apparently the paci fairy delivers elmo products ;) Next step...potty training??? Maybe I can create a potty training fairy?

K5 is starting to walk! She is able to walk across the room to us and we anticipate will be switching to fully walking soon! She is also going down the stairs all by herself which means we should be able to lose the baby gate soon!!! WOO HOO!!!!

Camper Anyone???

2008-06-24T06:33:00.000-07:00

I would *love* to own a pop up camper...so I have been searching high and low(more like craigslist and ebay!) to see just how expensive these little babies are...and well...they aren't too bad if you are buying used.

With that being said, if anyone has a pop up camper that we could rent for a weekend I would love to hear from you. OR if you know of a place where I could rent a camper that would be helpful as well.

And just because I think they are "drool worthy" I have added some pictures of one of my favorite camper models. I love this company because it seems that the majority of their campers have pop out dinettes which would provide for us ample space to put a pack and play on the floor as well as 3 full size or larger beds. Perfect space for our family.

I would also like to...

2008-06-21T12:11:00.000-07:00

thank everyone who remembers us in prayer! Both Sean and I have been blessed with TONS of work lately! In fact Sean has picked up enough side work to put a hefty dent in our debt reduction plan. God has shown us that when we are faithful with what he gives us he Blesses us beyond our imagination. DUH right??? Well...we are slow learners!

And just on a side note...I have 13 open houses in July and would love prayer to remain focused on my tasks so that I am able to keep a clear mind as I tend to get overwhelmed by my lenghty list of things.

THANKS AGAIN!!!!!!!

Ahhhh...the perks of having a dental care worker in the family!!!

2008-06-21T12:08:00.003-07:00

My mom works for an oral surgeon in Crystal Lake and has wonderful connections! She recently was able to get me this toothbrush for a hefty discount and I have to say...I LOVE IT!!! It came with the UV sanitizer which will come in handy when I find my brush head somewhere elsewhere than it should be ;) And...because I am NOT good at remembering to floss(quite frankly...I am amazed at anyone who can remember!)this toothbrush should come in handy!

THANKS MOM!!!!!

Please if you would...

2008-06-10T15:27:00.000-07:00

Join in prayer for this family.

I follow this blog daily and have seen God in their lives in a miraculous way...so if you wouldn't mind devoting some of your quiet time to praying for Nathan, Tricia and Gwyneth, I know that the power of prayer makes a real difference in lives!

And if you don't read it...I believe that it is the #1 followed blog on the internet.

We are blessed but seriously...

2008-06-10T07:19:00.000-07:00

I AM SO CONFUSED!!!

On one hand I am so thankful that Sean is starting his 401k on July 1st but COME ON!!!!! Why can't the information about it be written in plain english. It just makes me think that I am completely uneducated or that they are trying to make it difficult to make smart decisions.

So...if you "get" 401k's and know my phone number...please call me! I don't get it!!!!

Who would have known....

2008-06-09T09:46:00.001-07:00

Apparently we have soccer genes!!!! I had no idea but this is my second cousin.

Gillian Clayton (Nova Scotia)
Although Gillian had been involved in a wide range of sports since she was very young, it soon became obvious that soccer was her sport of choice. But she didn't just play. By the time she graduated from high school, she had developed her own personal fitness program and had devoted time to the study of soccer theory. This allowed her, she says, to better visualize the game and interpret the game's theory and technique. It also boosted her level of play and confidence tremendously. When she moved to Halifax to attend Dalhousie University, Gillian made the varsity team on her first try despite the fact that this was a team that had won the CIAU National Gold Medal the previous year and had several returning players! Her hard work and determination leave her well deserving of this national recognition.

Also...thank you grandma for scanning this picture!

This is from K1 and K2's "photo shoot" in January.

Christ Tomlin

2008-06-07T08:55:00.001-07:00

Uppercase Living's Summer Splash Promotion!

2008-06-06T14:38:00.001-07:00

SWEEEEEET!!!! I gotta love it when I can promote a great deal! And this one is great...especially for new demonstrators.

From June 4th- July 31st the summer splash promotion allows hostesses to receive triple up credit from their previous purchases. I have seen so many hostesses get everything on their list free just from using their double up and their sales totals so to offer triple up is just fantastic! I have a hostess right now who is adding $321 to her total from last Friday!

The other awesome deal is for new demonstrators who sign up during the promotion. They receive $ off their start up kit AND get an EXTRA $10 for every $100 in sales. That means that if they have a $400 open house(my average) they would make $140 for the night...not to mention $50 in product.

Talk about a sweeeeet deal! Let me know if you have any questions!!!! Or if you want to host an open house! I can give you more information!

Watch out Woodstock...Here come the Carey's!!!

2008-06-06T11:24:00.000-07:00

This morning I signed the girls up for soccer. When I was growing up soccer was a word thrown around as a joke. My brothers played three sports. Football, Basketball, and Baseball and they labelled soccer players as "un-worthy of being football players". I know it isn't nice but it was reality and now my girls are going to play soccer for the first time in the fall.

I am quite excited for this adventure to begin and quite excited that I know NOTHING about soccer. I think that will be good for them so that my over acheiving side will be left in the dark and my encouragement side will shine through!

So...do your kids play sports? If so...which ones? I would love to hear your perspective on soccer!!!! Or any sport really!

I made my sales goal for May!!!!

2008-05-29T19:36:00.000-07:00

WOO HOO!!! I have to say I am so proud of myself!!! I hit my goal of $4000 in sales for May and actually had something like $4278.40. So that means that I made $1376.30 in straight profit AND I made an extra $300 in free product!!!! WOO HOO!!!! SWEEEEEET!!!!

And...I LOVE my job!!!

I am waiting to go to work so I thought...

2008-05-23T14:47:00.000-07:00

I would do this...like the sheep that I am!!! Baaaaaa!

Everyone knows I can't pass one up...

Accent: Yes. Well kinda. Ok...no.

Book that I like: I am reading Stolen Innocence by Elissa Wall. So far...very good!

Chore I don’t care for: I will go with ANY! Chore?? Bad word!

Dog or Cat: Dog, Cat's remember everything!

Essential Electronics: TIVO

Favorite Cologne: I like the Armani cologne that I bought Sean last year...I don't remember the name though

Gold or Silver: Silver please!

Handbag I carry most often: my Uppercase Living Bag

Insomnia: Nope, even with TONS of coffee.

Job Title: Mom, Wife, and UL Demonstrator

Kids: 5, All girls, All start with K

Living Arrangements: We live in a duplex

Most Admirable Trait: Hmmmm....I can be pretty funny sometimes.(at least I think so)

Naughtiest Childhood Behavior: Not bringing home my report cards.

Overnight hospital stays: Only with the K's

Phobias: I prefer to call it anxiety

Quote: The best things in life aren't things.

Religion: I check yes.

Siblings: I am the oldest of five. It went girl, boy, girl, boy, Leah.

Time I wake up: That depends on the day.

Unusual Talent or Skill: Hmmmm.....I dunno

Vegetable I Refuse to Eat: I don't know that there is one...maybe one of the hard squashes?

Worst Habit: Biting my nails.

X-rays: Yes...I have had some. Legs and Tailbone.

Yummy Stuff: Chinese and Mexican!

Zoo Animal I Like Most: Owl?

Anyone...?????????

2008-05-21T11:08:00.000-07:00

Have an extra printer that they don't need???? Mine crapped out. Grrrrrr.....

Can someone come and potty train my girl?

2008-05-20T09:37:00.001-07:00

For those of you who have successfully potty trained a two year old...I applaud you! I have YET to potty train my girls at the age of 2. K1 and K2 were potty trained in January very close to their third birthday, and K3 was the same.

Thus said...K4 isn't surprising me that she isn't there yet. BUT just in case any of you want to come and potty train her...I am throwing that out there as a possibility.

She is sweet...but likes to pee on my floor close to the potty. She actually has even made it to the bathroom only to do a #2 on the floor and then cover it up with toilet paper so that Sean couldn't find it.(Notice...I wasn't home)

I applaud you really I do!!!!

Uh Oh....my addiction has risen to a new level.

2008-05-19T06:17:00.001-07:00

Yesterday afternoon Sean and I went to a benefit dinner for a man with whom Sean worked with. He died tragically in a snowmobiling accident earlier this year.

Well at this benefit there was a silent auction and...this is what I WON!!! (Well..paid for)

I got with my "winnings" two starbucks coffee cups(yes...I know...I didn't need more), a bag of Pike's Place coffee, coffee scooper, expresso maker, expresso cups, expresso saucers, bag of expresso beans, bag of decaf expresso beans(anyone use this?).

Oh yeah...In addition to that...we won the 50/50 raffle and came home with $185 extra!!!! SWEET!!!!

From my window....

2008-05-08T11:50:00.001-07:00

So Blessed to be Busy!

2008-05-07T11:05:00.000-07:00

I have to say that lately I have certainly felt that God is in the business of encouraging his children. My business is blossoming and I have 12 open houses booked in May and more in June and July. I feel so blessed to be able to sell a product that I truly love and it sounds like a "sales speech" but it is so true. God is using this company to bless our family and he is bringing people that want to buy the product to encourage me. I made $692 take home last month with only 5 open houses. Not to mention I also earned over $200 in free product and supplies making it free for me to create hostess gifts and get my extra supplies. This just can't be going any better!

Good things...all around!

2008-05-05T13:52:00.000-07:00

Check out this awesome open house project that I came up with!!!! These are fridge magnets and everyone gets to make one in the color of their choice for Free!!!! SWEEEEEET! I must say...I love them!

Welcome Spring???

2008-04-30T11:09:00.000-07:00

It would be nice to trust that I could add flowers to my stones in front of my welcome sign...but I am kinda nervous! Seeing as though I often get excited about getting plants this time of year, and typically I freeze them!

My Big Girl and a special birthday wish!

2008-04-28T10:34:00.000-07:00

Well today was Kyla's physical for kindergarten. Here she is posing with her completed physical form and her new webkinz that she got for being so brave while she got 4 shots!!!

And here is a picture of Gracie and Kyla while Gracie is saying "look rain" and looking out the window...classic!

And just for grins I thought I would post one of my favorite pictures of my friend Beth. HAPPY BIRTHDAY BETH!!!!! May you continue to experience moments of absolute peace!

Here's an awesome UL video

2008-04-28T06:24:00.001-07:00

Especially for those of you who have never heard of uppercase living.

It is here

Barbie Girl!

2008-04-27T08:43:00.000-07:00

I realize that typically all girls when the reach a certain age enjoy playing with barbies...but that was not the case for the twins who are now 7 and I think never picked up a barbie(even when I would find them at garage sales and bring them home). So when dd#3 was WAY into barbies and played so nicely by herself with them I always wondered if she would be the only one.

Well...as you can see from these pictures...she was not! This morning while I was on the computer only a few feet from dd#4 she proceeded to lay out all of dd#3's barbie and pick out her favorites and started giving them voices. I thought it was adorable so here she is "posing" with her barbies!(ahem...kyla's barbies)

Happy Birthday Baby Girl!

2008-04-25T16:08:00.001-07:00

I know that it is always mentioned how time fly's...but here I am again amazed at how fast this year has gone by and how much change we have had within the year.

Kendell is one year old today. Here are a few pictures of her past year and some of today. She is very happy to have lots of extra attention today and will only remember this birthday from photos and stories. Ahhh...the good old years...when children don't even remember what you get them as a gift!!!LOL!

Last year right after I had Kendell, I got very emotional. I remember during labor literally coming to realization that it was "ok" and that we would get through having another baby and the ups and downs that follow, and I will never forget seeing her and thinking "oh yeah...I know you...you fit!" How strange it was to look back on it and think that I wasn't sure of myself yet again.

Hmmm...kinda dead on.... :o) !!!!!!!!!!!

2008-04-24T13:07:00.000-07:00

You Are An Exclamation Point

You are a bundle of... well, something.

You're often a bundle of joy, passion, or drama.

You're loud, brash, and outgoing. If you think it, you say it.

Definitely not the quiet type, you really don't keep a lot to yourself.

You're lively and inspiring. People love to be around your energy.

(But they do secretly worry that you'll spill their secrets without even realizing it.)

You excel in: Public speaking

You get along best with: the Dash

What Punctuation Mark Are You?

Wondering when the Magic Money will appear???

2008-04-21T10:24:00.001-07:00

Check out this link...I went a wondering today and figured it out!

I AM SHOUTING FROM THE RAFTERS!!!!

2008-04-15T10:56:00.000-07:00

I DID IT, I DID IT, I DID IT!!!!!!!!!

I hit my goal weight by my goal!!!!!!

Last July I set out on a journey with the goal set to be 150 by the time Kendell was 1. And so with the invites sent out and the last 5 pounds still lingering I am so happy to report that I stepped on the scale this morning at 149.2!!!!! WOO HOO!

One thing that I have learned along the way is that if I can do it anyone can! Really!

Moving on...

2008-04-12T08:34:00.000-07:00

I would like to say thank you to those of you who are praying for our youth at our church and all of those who are impacted by William's death. Sean and I both went to the funeral on Thursday and ironically yesterday and today Sean is with about 35 junior highers and high schoolers at the Dare to Share conference.

I had a few thought from the funeral...

We were sitting among the youth. Mostly high schoolers who knew William well. And I just couldn't help but really soak in the fact that these kids are really just that...KIDS! Today's youth has been packaged to "look" like they are in their young 20's and perhaps more equipt to deal with struggles in their life...but as I was watching them crumble I could really tell...they really didn't know how to deal with something like this.

Now, William's "crowd" were what the high schoolers would call the punks or perhaps even goth punks. Some would call them emo's. BUT the crowd was filled with Williams people. Black hair, heavy eye makeup, dark clothes...you know...the kids who a mother of five *might* be afraid to walk up to on the street and strike up a conversation because well...it almost seems like the kids don't want attention or want the wrong kind of attention.

BUT here's the thing. I think that these kids are the ones that need all the "good" attention that we as adults can give them. They need us to look them in the eye and greet them if we see them walking in our path. They need acknowlegement that they are human. Because I would rather have my "hello" rejected than to wonder if I should have said hello.

And please don't take lightly...that these kids just like all the other kids...NEED JESUS.

Please continue to pray for William's family. I have learned in recent days that not only did they lose a son and brother, but they have also lost a grandson and son in the last two weeks. A newborn who didn't live past birth. Heartbreaking...

Also please pray for Joey. He is just one of the kids who means the world to Sean who is struggling.

Thank you again for your prayers.

Please Pray

2008-04-07T10:53:00.000-07:00

Only because I don't want to "re-hash" what I am thinking I am copying this blog the letter that will be passed out to the parents of our junior high students tonight. Please pray.

April 7, 2008

Dear Parents:

It is with heavy hearts that Sean and I share the following information.

On Friday April 5th one of our students named William took his own life. William has been to many of the game night overnights that we have had in the past years and although was high school aged continued to come to Yess occasionally to hang out with the kids and his friends.

We want to inform you of this for a few reasons. First and foremost to let you know that we believe whole heartedly that William is in Heaven now. He had accepted Christ and wasn’t afraid to talk about it with Sean. We also wanted to give you the information that we have so that you can talk with your kids about suicide. We will be talking about William at Yess tonight and the topic will more than likely come up in the future as we tend to discuss topics that impact this age group in a real way.

Please if you would, pray for these students. There are some who feel guilt, sadness, and frustration at not being able to help. Please pray for this weekends conference that the students will be going to. Pray that the students step up to the challenge of talking to their friends about God. Also please pray for the leaders at Yess. Pray that we have the God given words when it seems there just aren’t any.

I thank you so much for entrusting your kids into our hands during the two hours a week that we have. I cannot explain to you just how precious each and every one of them is to us. We count it a blessing to have parents who bring their kids each week and students who come eager to have fun and learn about God.

May God bless your family,

A fine line between judging and acceptance???

2008-04-03T07:43:00.000-07:00

After watching Oprah this morning...(I know some of you are rolling your eyes)

I realized that I just don't know how to feel about this morning's topic. For those of you who don't watch, this mornings show featured Thomas a pregnant male. I know all of you are thinking...Male??? I think not. He was born a female, transitioned into a male but kept his reproductive parts that would make "him" still a "her" but...for the purpose of the show...they are calling him a male.

Now...what do I think about this...especially as a Christian mother. WOW! I have a hard time accepting this as a good thing. Especially considering God created women to be pregnant and my view on that doesn't change(and really...Thomas is a woman). God didn't create man to be pregnant.

I just wonder if the Christian community will make this couple(Thomas and his wife)feel like they are being judged. Are they not worthy of feeling God's love? Who am I to judge? I guess that's where my frustration lies. I don't know if showing them acceptance and God's love means that I am accepting their decision.

And for the record...I have dealt with something like this before. My cousin lives her life as a lesbian. And I have chosen to NOT ignore her, banish her, or make her feel like a bad person....because after all...we all make bad choices or UNGODLY choices. And when it feels like all the "Christians" in her life have chosen to look down at her I don't want to be in that group. Because I would prefer to LOVE.

Sin is sin is sin right? There are no levels of sin. So my sin is the same as Thomas's sin, and who am I to judge him/her?

We are back to...normal?

2008-03-31T08:34:00.000-07:00

Well after the pause in our lives of spring break, the twins are back at school today. And although I did really enjoy having them home there is just something about getting my routine back. Those of you who know me well know that I just don't do change well.

We had a great Easter at my parents house! All of the kids were very well fed thanks to my mom and had a fun time collecting eggs during Auntie Tara's Annual Egg Hunt(she really likes doing this!). Joel and Chelsea were in Vegas so they were missed and Kyle stayed at school(like come on Kyle...its only 45 minutes away!!!).

The greatest news of our week was that KYLA GOT INTO ALL DAY KINDERGARTEN!!!!!!!

WOO HOO!!!!!! I promise you that I am not excited about this because of selfish motives. We don't pay for childcare or anything so this doesn't mean that we are saving money per month because she is in school for a longer amount of time.

I am just so excited for her because this will give her a greater foundation for reading and because she is SO ready! She has been tail ending off of Kellyn and Kiara ever since she knew of them and is already learning her site words. She is super excited but mostly because she "likes meeting new people". No joke...she told me so!

Gracie is pretty excited about Kendell's upcomming birthday party and has been chanting "Party, Party" over and over again anytime I mention it. It is pretty funny and we don't know where she picked it up.

I have been pretty busy with Uppercase Living. Hollie and Stephanie recently posted on their blogs about their new expressions for their homes. I am excited about the 11 open houses that I have in the next two months and am sure that I will be tacking on quite a few more!!! I seriously LOVE doing this. I really do enjoy the feeling of assisting people in personalizing their homes to fit them!

So that is my update! I have alot going on right now...lots of school PTO stuff, UL stuff, and Mommy stuff!!!! Thanks for hanging in there with me!