Stepping Heavenward

Rafting the Dechutes with 20+ youth

2010-08-16T18:48:00.000-07:00

Our raft going down Box Car rapid

( Can you find us?)

Friday night Michael and I and our two oldest got back from a 3 day, 2 night raft trip on the Dechutes River. We left early Wednesday morning and put in at Trout Creek near the Warm Springs Indian Reservation. We rafted a few hours until we came to our first camp site. We got there a bit early, around 2:00 pm and had lots of daylight left to explore the campsite, how water wars, swim in the river, set up camp and have endless fun.

You should have seen the gear boat that our teaching pastor took all by himself down the river. It was so loaded with tents, food, backpacks, stoves, and everything else we needed to live for the three days away from home. I wish I had a picture of his boat. It was truly a site to be seen.

Like I mentioned before we had 20 something junior high and high school kids. There were four pastors on this trip and another male adult and two women. These kids were so well behaved and worked their hineys off when it came time to set up and tear down camp. They also did most of the work when it came time for our meals. All us women had to do was stand around and direct orders. There was no complaining!!

Day 2! After breaking camp and loading everything back in the gear boat on Thursday we headed down the river and had many hours of hot sun, water gun fights with the boats, white water rapids and swimming. We stopped off at a huge rock mid way down to do some rock jumping. The brave kids and adults which included my daughter and husband jumped off of a huge cliff into a pool of deep water. many of the others took the safer route and jumped off smaller rocks. It was so amazing to watch. However, I didn't participate. I am so nervous about injuring myself and putting myself into unwanted pain. I just watched and tried not to freak out.

That night we found another great camping spot. This time with shade. It was right along the train tracks and we had the pleasure of watching and listening to the train several times that night. The sun went over the large rock like cliffs early and we had relief from the 90+ degree weather. That evening the kids all sat upon the boats singing, talking and laughing. We had delicious smoked pulled pork that one of the leaders made and lots of fruit. Just before bed my daughter gave a little talk on her time in Argentina. Most of the leaders were eager to go to bed early and get some much needed rest. The kids stayed up a bit later watching shooting stars. Day two is over!!

By day three we were a bit sunburned, and a little tired. But... we still had lots of desire to hit the big three class rapids that would be coming up. The big gear boat that our pastor was guiding was dropped off at one of the launch sites several miles from Maupin. He was glad to ditch the boat and took over the boat that Michael had been guiding. He has had a bit more experience on the river, especially the big rapids that were coming up and Michael was happy to get the break. That afternoon we hit two big rapids- Wapanitia and Box Car. These were incredible rapids. There were photographers perched on the rocky shore to take pictures of the people going down. These are the only pictures we have of the whole trip.

Around two that afternoon we reached Maupin City Park, our destination. What a high we were all on, but definitely a tired and ready for a heatly meal and a good night sleep in our own beds. I praise God that the trip went well and there were no catastrophes, a few scratches and sunburns but nothing severe. I was so glad that I went and can't wait to do it again!!

The other three boats !!

Summer Fun

2010-08-04T11:43:00.000-07:00

It's been one week since Mandi has been home and life is getting back to normal. There is no normal when one child is gone, out of the country. I must admitt that I took her absence real hard. I had no idea that I would "freak out" so much!! Those, by the way are my daughter's words.

Mandi had such a powerful, wonderful mission trip. She came home with a desire to go again in December if God leads. I tend to see the dollar signs of another trip and have a hard time seeing how this next trip can be funded in such a short time. Mandi on the other hand has great faith that God will provide if it's the right thing for her to do. She is already thinking outside the box on what fundraisers she can do and creative ways to raise money for this trip. Nothing is impossible with God!!

Two days after Mandi got home we headed to Grants Pass for a family reunion. We had a wonderful weekend reconnecting with Michael's side of the family who I have met only once or twice. There were about 30 relatives hanging out at the Kuhlman house. We swam in the pool, and ate lots of great food. I am sure that I gained whatever little weight I have lost at bootcamp back this weekend. It's hard to be "good" when everything is so yummy!! On Saturday we rafted a portion of the Rogue River. Michael and I took all the kids. Amanda has lots of rafting experience and took one of the relatives down. Jeff does too and he took one of the cousins. Both kids did exceptionally well navigating the rapids. I was so proud of them! Michael had Josh in his tahiti and I had Emma!! After pulling out at one of my favorite parks, Indian Mary park, we had a big picnic with everyone else who didn't go rafting.

We were suppose to go home Sunday but Jeff and Mandi wanted to raft again. The first river trip was such a hit that they decided to go again. Sadly, Michael threw his back out earlier that morning and we were not able to join them. They went down another section of the river, a little rougher part, with Uncle Dave and other family members. By the time they got done it was too late to drive home. So we got to spend another day! Monday we hung out by the pool until four and finally headed home.

My next adventure is coming up next week when Michael and I get to be chaperones on the middle school and high school youth group rafting trip. It will be a three day trip. We get to camp out at night and be in the water during the day. I can't wait!! I am so glad Jeff and Mandi OKed us to go. The younger kids will have fun with Nana and Papa here in Redmond.

This summer is going by too fast. It's amazing how the kids get busier as they get older. I am glad that we have one more month of summer vacation to enjoy before school starts up again.

Argentina trip 2010

2010-07-15T09:18:00.000-07:00

I want to direct those who look at this blog to my daughters blog for the next couple of weeks. She created a blog for her missions trip to Argentina. (click on the highlighted link) She left this morning early for an 11 day trip to San Nicolas, Argentina to work in a children's home. She went with a team of six people from our church.

I wept like a baby this morning when she flew out. I have not experienced much anxiety in my life time, but last night I couldn't sleep a wink. My heart was racing and I had a hard time breathing. For several hours I prayed asking God to grant me peace. It worked because I did fall asleep. I know she is in wonderful hands! Our God is omniscient and oomnipotent!! All powerful and all knowing! She is also with a wonderful team who will watch out for her.

Please keep Mandi in your prayers- and me too!! God has amazing plans for her and she will grow through this experience.

Here's what has been going on!

2010-07-06T15:36:00.000-07:00

It has been a month since I last post on my blog. Life just keeps moving forward and really doesn't wait for me to catch up!

The last couple of weeks have been nice ones for our family.

The kids were able to spend some wonderful time with their Nana and Papa. Even as I type the boys are on their week 2 vacation with them. (They have returned) Oh how I miss them! The house dynamics have drastically changed with just two children here, and they are girls. I have found that the house stays much neater with less kids. Yes, that's a plus, but I miss the noise and fun that Jeff and Josh bring to the family. I just can't wait until Saturday when they get home! (Yeah, they are home)

Last week Michael and I had a chance to get away for a little R&R. We were sent on a little pastoral retreat by some friends in our church. So, for two nights we were blessed to stay at a retreat house in West Linn called the Elderberry House Oasis. It's a place for Christian workers to go to get some encouragement and much needed break. What a ministry this couple has. Their house is in West Linn and is in walking distance to the Willamette River. Their view is breathtaking with many places to relax both outside and in. They even have a prayer shed that is perfectly set in their beautiful backyard. It was a nice place for Michael and I to sit and read our Bible and spend some time in prayer. The accommodations were so comfortable, but more importantly the couple who host this is simply wonderful. God's love truly shines through them and they have such a heart to minister. There were many times in ministry that we really needed such a place and we searched and searched the inter net for something just like this. I am so happy we have found a place we can go to and even recommend to others. If you would like more information on this ministry click on the link above labeled Elderberry House Oasis.

After two days in West Linn, we found lodging near the airport. We were planning on attending the OCEAN home school convention but decided to play hooky and spend some more wonderful time together, just the two of us. The weather was gorgeous. Really the first nice couple of days of the summer and it was our 16th anniversary, so.... we spent the day driving the old Colombia Gorge Hwy that took us to all the beautiful waterfalls. We stopped at each one and hiked some of the trails they had to offer. The highlight was hiking a 5.4 mile hike from Wakeenah Falls,the falls just before Multnomah Falls to Multnomah Falls. We thought it was .5 miles, not 5 miles. We didn't realize this until we were about half way there. This hike was magnificent! It was physically a bit difficult but definitely worth the effort and sore muscles we had the next day. I can tell bootcamp is working. A month ago this would have been a much harder hike for me.

Mandi leaves soon for her mission trip to Argentina. She has 9 days to go! Praise the Lord that she raised all the money that she needed for her trip. She has created a blog to update those who are supporting her financially and through prayer. If you want to know how to pray for her and follow her trip please follow her blog the next couple of weeks. I will try and update it frequently throughout her trip. http://www.argentina2010trip.blogspot.com/

The last week has been spent weeding my garden area. It is amazing how fast those pesky weeds grow. It's a good thing I have four very active children to help me.

Boot Camp!!

2010-06-03T14:46:00.000-07:00

I have finally come to that point in losing weight where I better "fish or cut bait" or another not so lady like idiom "@#&$%* or get off the pot". I have spent years procrastinating, and so much money on exercise DVDs and diet books. I almost have a full library now!! My 36 birthday is just days away and I have remained roughly the same weight since my 10 year old daughter was born. I can sit here and give myself every excuse that pops into my mind. Like...I don't have time, I'm in pain, my plantar faciitis flared up, I had cancer ( that one is getting old now)I'm too tired, I'm fine the way I am ............. but, frankly, I am so tired of being sick and tired. I need to make some big changes, not little ones. I don't want to say that I'll start Monday and then have Monday come and go again.

So.....

What better way to spend my 36 year than to finally get my rear in gear!!

My goals are no longer to lose 10 pounds in one month and to eat like a bird, but to live healthy. Eat right and exercise! I think "they" have been saying this all along and I am now just getting it.

So....

This morning I made my first step in achieving this life long goal. I woke up at 4:45 a.m. to go to my first class of Brundage Boot camp!! Last Thursday I went to a meeting with my hubby who is fully supporting me in this in almost every way except to join me in the early morning workouts.(He says he will be cheering me on at home from his elliptical after he sleeps another hour.) I practically signed my life away on Thursday saying that I will be at every workout and if I don't- they will come show up on my front lawn. I knew when I heard this, there would be no excuses for me and I would get the accountability that I so longed for and needed.

I have never done anything of this kind before. I haven't even moved my muscles like I did this morning for who knows how many years. I left the workout this morning feeling so proud of myself for showing up and busting my rear end. I feel muscles I have never felt before. I am sore, shaky, and I can't believe that I can't wait to go back on Monday!!

I am looking forward to having a better outlook on life. I want to be able to keep up with my kids and not feel so out of shape. I want to feed my body healthy foods that give me energy! Plain and simple, I just want to feel the best I possibly can.

And....

If I can lose some weight and look better along the way, then I say bring on the pain- good pain that is!!

Mandi's 1st Mission Trip to Argentina!!

2010-05-19T10:03:00.000-07:00

Mandi is raising support to go on her first Missions trip to Argentina. She has recently sent her support letter to close friends and family. I am posting this on my blog because there may be some people who follow my blog and would like to hear about Mandi's trip and support her in it. More importantly, she is asking for prayer! If you are interested in supporting Mandi in prayer or in donations and you didn't receive a support letter, you can copy and print out the donation slip at the bottom of this post.

Dear Friends and Family,

Hello! I pray this letter finds you well. I am writing to let you know about an opportunity that has come my way. But first I would like to let you know what has been going on in my life this past year.

I am completing my 8th grade year at Central Christian Schools. This has been a wonderful year that was filled with much growth and memorable experiences. This year at school I went on many school trips including Generation Unleashed and Fall Retreat. Both were amazing experiences that helped me grow spiritually.

THE INTEREST
This growth has rekindled an interest in going on a mission trip; something I have been considering for the last two years. At the beginning of this year I had my heart set on going on a youth mission trip to China. However, my parents had an uneasy feeling about it. The more I prayed about it, the more I began to feel the same way; but still I felt called to go on a mission trip.

THE OPPORTUNITY
A couple of months ago, I learned of an opportunity with our church to be a part of a team going down to Argentina this summer to minister to the Sunrise Children’s home. They have taken teams there for several years. The trip is July 16th -27th. Twelve people from our church will be joining some others and heading to San Nicolas, Argentina. Sunrise Children’s Home is a place that takes in children that are abandoned, abused or neglected. Many of the children have been rescued from the streets and from the prostitution trade.

With the blessing of my parents I am pursuing this trip with great excitement!

On this trip we will have an opportunity to help meet some of the needs of the children like bringing clothes, shoes and school supplies. We also plan to build a storage place on the premises that will store the donations the home receives. Further, we will be taking the kids on special outings; doing things with them that they normally don’t have the chance to do. Most importantly, we will be playing and spending time with them and showing them a lot of love.

I don’t know what the future holds for me in missions, but I am starting to think about what I can do occupationally on the mission field and am looking at which colleges would help me meet this goal. This mission trip will be my first glimpse of mission work in another country. I look forward to serving along side my team and showing God’s love to the orphans at Sun Rise Children’s Home.

THE CHALLENGE
I value your prayers for our team and those whose lives will be touched by God through us. I am asking for you to pray for safety, good health, smooth travel, and financial support. Just knowing that you are praying will give me peace as I go into an unfamiliar place.

In addition to your prayers, if you are able, I am asking you to help me raise my support of $2000 to cover the cost of the trip. To make it easier, I’ve included a page that explains the process for giving and a self addressed, stamped envelope.

To find out more about the Sun Rise Children’s Home that I will be visiting, please view their website at www.sunriseofargentina.org.

This is a journey that I believe God has called me to and I would greatly appreciate any level of support you are able to offer.

Thank you,

Mandi Kuhlman

If you are interested in supporting Mandi financially or prayerfullly on her first mission trip to Argentina you can send your donation slip to:

Redmond Community Church
237 NW 9th Street
Redmond, OR 97756

Another Anita Renfroe Hit!!

2010-05-14T11:28:00.000-07:00

WRINKLED LADIES

My Prayer

2010-05-09T08:45:00.000-07:00

Thank you Lord for giving me four beautiful children to love. To be their mommy is the greatest and best job in the world. Help me to show your love to them every day, all day long. Let my words be gentle, may they find security in my presence, and help me encourage them so they have the confidence to be who you made them to be.

Thank you that each child is uniquely made and fashioned by you. You have a very special plan for their future and you are molding then and shaping them. Thank you that my children know you. I pray that they will grow in you and love you with all their heart. I pray that they will love your Word and desire to read it, and will live their life in close relationship to you.

AMEN

A Picture Worth Posting!

2010-05-03T08:46:00.000-07:00

Home Sweet Home

2010-04-29T11:57:00.001-07:00

Here is our new house!! I have gotten several requests to show pictures of our new house so those who don't live close to us can see it.

We moved to C.O. 4 1/2 years ago and wanted to buy a house then. We looked at a house that was just like this in a cul-de-sac that was going for almost 300,000. (It is pretty amazing that after four years this house is now half that price.) I loved the layout but we knew that we could not afford it. Since then the market has changed as you all know. Last year we saw that we could probably buy a house because they have come down so much in price. We had looked and looked. We also put several offers out there but they all fell through. Honestly, we were trying to get the tax credit and felt we had to get something soon. Nothing we saw really met the criteria that we were looking for until we came across this house in November.

I remember when our realator saw this house and commented that this was the house for us!! Everything I wanted in a house was there except for an upstairs laundry room. The house had dropped considerably in price and we moved on it, only to be out bid by someone else. This was how it would go the next couple of months. The bid would fall through, we would jump again and the bank would take someone elses offer, but that would fall through. Finally the first of Feb. the bank not only took our offer but counter offered. It was a better deal than what we offered. That doesn't usually happen. The reason all these offers kept falling through was because the house had been through some remodeling and it is hard to get an USDA loan on an unfinished house. Just before closing we found out that they were not giving out USDA loans anymore, we had just made it. The extended tax credit that the government was doing was also ending. We also got a low interest rate before they started going up again. As it turns out- we are now paying about the same per month in mortgage and taxes than we did renting. What a blessing!

I am so thankful that we were patient on this house hunt and that God closed the necessary doors and led us to this one. Sometimes it is very hard to be patient and wait. I had finally come to that place where I was ok with renting, possibly for the rest of my life, when this house came available.

I have posted some before and after pictures. I regret not taking pictures of the master bathroom before it was finished, or of the deck before the railing got put on. We were told that a contractor lived in the house before us and was remodeling it. He had already put in new carpet and hardwood floors. He was in the process of redoing the master bath when the house got foreclosed. The bank rehired him to finish the job he started. He did a wonderful job and we are so pleased.

This is a before and after of the dining room.

This is Jeff's bedroom. He is so happy to have his own room.

Josh was a little sad at first to have his own room (he loves his big bro) but now he loves it!

This is the master bedroom and bathroom. Notice....the bed is made!! I'm trying to keep it that way.

Here is the living room. The other side of this room is the dining room.

Here is Emma's bedroom. It will also be our guest room because it is downstairs and she has the neatest bedroom.

This is the downstairs full bath that I prayed for! It was important to me because my dad has M.D. and it is difficult for him to climb stairs.

I love this room! It is our family room. It connects with the dining nook and kitchen. Now I can hang out with the family when they watch tv and I am still cleaning the kitchen.

I love my kitchen! We had a friend who is a wonderful tiler redo the counter tops. The kitchen has so many drawers and cabinets I can't fill them all!

This is the boys upstairs bathroom. No one fights over the shower anymore.

The only picture I haven't shown you was Mandi's room. She is in the garage!! Yes, it is true. We have a three car tandem garage. The tandem part will be walled in soon and it will be her bedroom. The church's house warming gift is to send several guys over next month to wall in her room, put in a door, closet and a window. Some new carpet was donated from a worship team member in the church. Mandi is very excited about this!!

Well that is it! We are very happy about this house and thank God for giving us a little bit of land in Central Oregon that we can call home. My prayer is that God will keep us here a very long time. I would love to see grand kids in this house!! But first....I want to raise these beautiful four children that God has given us. The 41/2 years that we have been in Redmond has been the longest we have been anywhere and the kids are reaping the benefit of that. It is very sad to think that I only have that same amount of time left before my oldest leaves home. How time flies.

One busy month!!!

2010-04-29T09:40:00.000-07:00

It's been well over a month since we moved and life has been so busy. I must say, probably the busiest it has been in a long time! Every time I want to take time to write on my blog I either get interrupted or I am so dead tired that I fall asleep while trying to figure out what to write

Here is a quick update on this last month!

The second to last week in March (spring break) we moved over everything we could do ourselves to our new house which is 2 miles west of the house we rented for nearly 3 years. That week Michael's parents came over to help us. They were planning on staying only a few days but the weather was nasty and they ended up staying longer than they had planned. I look at it this way... God knew that I needed them here! I don't think I would have been moved out and had the house cleaned by the 1st without their help. "Thank you Mom and Dad for all that you did with the move." Thanks also to all the people who showed up to move us over the Sunday before Easter. We had a crew of about 15 people. It only took one trip of about four pick up trucks and a couple trailers. I am so grateful from the bottom of my heart for those men and women who so loving served and blessed us.

The very next weekend was Easter!! Michael was so busy with Easter stuff and putting up new lights in the church auditorium. We were running crazy that week and literally paused to say good night when we finally hit the pillow at night. What a blessing it was Easter Sunday evening for Michael and I to take off to Sisters for a two night getaway (thanks to RCC). For the first time we connected and relaxed in a long time. While in Sisters Michael and I got a couple's massage!! It was our first massage ever! It was Heaven on Earth!!

While we were relaxing in Sisters, Mom and Dad K. kept our kids and watched over the animals. They were stationed out at Eagle Crest for the week. The kids had the joy of hanging out there- riding their bikes, swimming, taking long walks and eating quite well. At our house we had a friend working on our kitchen. We decided that we would remodel our kitchen with some of the money we got back from buying the house (tax credit). We hired our friend Greg to do the tiling. What a beautiful job he did. Sometimes I just stop and stare at my kitchen because I love it so much! (Thanks Greg for doing a beautiful job on my kitchen. It was well worth it!)

The next weekend was the Women's Mini Conference at RCC. My job was to put together the worship for it. I had three other talented vocalist helping me with it. I also had the help of my husband. He spent so much time teaching me how he puts a worship package together so that it flows. I have an even greater appreciation for what he does week in and week out with the worship. With our busy schedule We didn't get to practice as much as we would have liked but God is good and it all came together. The end result... 60 women worshiping our Awesome God!

Tuesday morning the 20th I woke up in a panic. I had forgotten in all my business to call my sweet niece and wish her a happy 4th birthday. So on a whim, I decided to drive over the mountain and spend the day with my nieces. This also meant seeing my sister and parents!! I rarely have a free schedule during the day but the child I care for was gone and I didn't have any piano lessons so I left for the day!! What a wonderful, quiet, drive over and back and a perfect day visiting my family. Thanks you wonderful hubby for taking care of the little details so I could go.

My mom and dad came over to see the house for the first time last weekend. They got to see Josh play soccer and make 3 goals. They also got to peer into our very busy life. I know that it tired them out. Our house is always hopping and the noise level is usually at one volume- LOUD! Sometimes the noise gets to me but it didn't seem to bother my mom much. She says she just toons it out! Maybe that's the grandma in her. The mom in me feels the kids need to settle down a lot more. This helps me look forward to being a grandma someday... but not any time soon!

Last Sunday I had my piano recital. My 14 students played 2 songs each. They did beautifully. I just love teaching and am so grateful for each and every student. With all their parents, siblings, extended relatives and friends- we had about 65 people there. The kids were beaming so brightly. I am so proud of them!

This week my body has finally let down. I got sick on Monday and have been feeling very yucky ever since. It's just a bad cold, but more than anything I am just dead tired. I am so tired that I just can't sleep at night. I know... this doesn't really make much sense. One by one the rest of the family has been getting it. Jeff stayed home two days from school. Emma and Josh are hacking and Michael is starting to get it. It is a good thing that life is finally starting to slow down.

I have two more busy weekends ahead of me. May 1st- is the Women's Tea that I was hoping to sing at with the ladies from the Women's Conference. I can barely sing today so who knows how I'll be by Saturday. Then next weekend is a youth conference call "Do Hard Things" put on by the youth of our community. Mandi and I have been involved with helping put this on for the last couple of months. Michael is putting together a youth worship team for that conference, Mandi is in charge of the prayer team and I will be helping wherever needed.

So this is what you get when I don't blog for over a month... A huge, long play by play! I hope this makes you happy mom! My mother is so faithful in checking to see if I have written. I hope I don't wait another month to blog, but with four kids and a husband needing one computer I rarely get my turn anymore. What I want for my birthday and mother's day combined is my very own laptop!! I have asked for a couple years now but I think it is at the bottom of the list of things I really need. Maybe....someday!

Have a wonderful week and make sure you tell God and your family just how grateful you are for them!!

Boxes, Boxes, Everywhere!!!

2010-03-21T08:33:00.000-07:00

As moving day approaches I am getting much more ambitious about packing. There is so much stuff in this house! I have already made three trips to Goodwill and I see many more in my future. The funny thing is- we had a pretty big garage sale last summer and got rid of lots of stuff that way. Where in the world does it all come from?

We are playing the waiting game now. Wednesday was suppose to be our closing date but things got hung up on the FDA loan and we had to get an extension. Now our hope is for the house to close on Monday and get the keys a few days after that so we can move over spring break.

We are getting very excited over here. The kids are pulling their weight in the packing process. It is very nice to have them older and very capable to help. Yesterday Jeff taped many boxes for me. He ran them up to me when I needed them and carried them when they were done. What a strong, strapping young man!! Emma's room (of course) was the first to be packed! Her natural organization skills must help her pack fast. My room on the other hand... well let's just say that I need Emma to help me! At least now I can see my floor. We are still waiting to see Mandi's floor. The first thing she packed up was her bed. I guess that was so she could clean out the stuff under it better.

There is much to do still but I know that it WILL get done eventually! For now, I am taking a rest and going to church. I would rather do that than pack anyway!

Have a wondeful Sunday!

This will be us in a few days!!

A Life of Praise!!

2010-03-11T13:24:00.000-08:00

Some of you may remember the day my niece, Natalie was born. She has such a hard start in life. To read her story, follow this link, Natalie's Miracle Story, you will read an incredible miracle story.

Today Natalie is 3 years old (HAPPY BIRTHDAY NATALIE!) and we are rejoicing that we have her in our life. God has given her and continues to give her a stronger heart. You would never know by looking at her and watching her that she had such a rough start. She is so lovable, funny, and very active.

I am also rejoicing in a fellow blogger, whom I have never met except through her blog, Confessions of a Chosen One. Just recently her son, who was born at 28 weeks and who also had a rough start in life like Natalie is home with her and her husband and little girl. He was in the hospital for over 90 days. These are miracle stories, yet I also know that there are stories that don't end this way. How do you have gratitude in that? I have never lost a child, but I have definitely been through tough times. Cancer, Three job losses at churches and now chronic pain. In each one of these troubled times I have grown a little bit more in cultivating of heart of gratitude.

I have been reading a book by Nancy Leigh Demoss on Gratitude. It is called "Choosing Gratitude: Your Journey to Joy".
I have several books throughout my life that have made a huge impact in my life and this is one of them! This is also the theme of our Women's Conference this year which is coming up in April. I have been surrendering my negative, life is so tough, attitude for an attitude of gratitude. We do have so much to be thankful for. Even if all seems bad, we can have a thankful and praiseworthy heart that God loved us so much that he sent His son Jesus to die on the cross for our sins. Believing this to be true and the awesome free gift of salvation makes me forever grateful. Committing to praise and thank God for the things in life that do not change, like His unfailing love and compassion are the best places to start. Before you know it your life will become one of PRAISE. A LIFE of PRAISE- That's what I want!

Isn't it wonderful that we have a helper in this? The Holy Spirit who was sent by the risen Lord to indwell in us and empower us. I am always teaching and reminding my children that no sirree can they live life on their own, but how wonderful that we don't have too. We have the Holy Spirit to help us. Through him we have all we need for a life of holiness. We have everything we need through him. He is our comforter, overwhelming hope, our strength and our power to love and serve. He will set our hearts to be thankful and to give praise. I don't have to beg him to take control of my life, he is just waiting for me to let him take control. I really wished I would have understood the role of the Holy Spirit earlier in my life, but I rejoice in the fact that I know this now.

Hebrews 13:15 says:

"By him (Jesus) let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name."

Ephesians 5:18-20 says:

"Be fulled with the Spirit...singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."

Psalm 34 The words of David say:

"I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth."

Psalm 71 states:

"My mouth is filled with your praise, declaring your splendor all day long... I will praise you more and more."

I am finding myself to be more thankful for both big and little things all day long. It's amazing how this has taken my Eeyore type attitude to one of Tigger. Ok... maybe not that much but I have been waking up much more content and thankful in the morning instead of worrying and complaining about my different situations. It is a daily journey that I will not be able to do on my own but with the Holy Spirit's power.

Below I have two songs that are my favorites on this Praise/Gratitude theme. You will have to pause my playlist at the top of the blog!

Gratitude by Nichole Nordeman

Life of Praise by Casting Crowns

Here are all the characters that the kids posed with!!

2010-03-09T09:58:00.000-08:00

Disneyland Vacation 2010

2010-03-09T09:31:00.000-08:00

We had the wonderful opportunity to have a once in a lifetime Disneyland vacation thanks to Mom and Dad Kuhlman. This was a dream of my mother-in-laws to take the kids to Disneyland before they were all grown up. I know that this vacation could have not been possible without them.

We spendt five wonderful and exciting days exploring Disneyland and California Adventure Land. There is so much to see and do. I think in five days we pretty much did all we could do there!

A huge goal for the kids was to get as many autographs of the Disney characters as they could. I think last time Emma counted she got 26 signatures. We have just as many pictures of these characters posing with the four kids.

Josh was the perfect age and height for this trip. He was tall enough to go on all the rides but one. He loves fast, exciting rides. He also still loved the fantasy part of Disneyland and really enjoyed Fantasy Land. Emma on the other hand thought those rides were too slow and a little boring. She wanted Space Mountain and California Screamin. She also was a bit old to enjoy the princesses. I guess she is out of that stage. However, she has two young cousins that love the Disney Princess' and stood in long lines to get their autograph and picture for them.

Jeff and Amanda loved it all!! Jeff always seemed to be 20 feet ahead of us ready to take on the next ride or attraction. He loved the water rides best, especially when he got soaked!! Mandi went to Disney World when she was one so it was so much fun to take her again at 14. I can't believe my baby is that old. I am so glad we had a chance to do this trip while she was still living with us. I know that it will be not long before she is out of the house and away at college.

I didn't get to experience the long trip down to Disneyland. Because of the many hours in the car and my neck problems the best choice for me was to fly. In two hours I was down there. I never heard any bickering or those famous words "are we there yet." I didn't have to remind the kids to do their homework, or be cramped in a car with seven people. Thanks to Michael, Nana and Papa all that was taken care of for me. All I had to do was show up to the airport on time. I did miss all of that though. I love road trips and I was a bit sad that I was away from the family.

All in all it was a wonderful trip where we made so many memories and I am so thankful that our family had the opportunity to experience Disneyland!! Thanks Mom and Dad for taking us!! We had so much fun!

OSU Family Picture

2010-02-05T15:53:00.000-08:00

We did it!! We finally got our family picture done in the orange and black theme!! I have been wanting to do this for years but haven't.

One day in Freddy's I signed up for a studio portrait session. I was hoping to have a nice formal picture done of the family, but when the time came to get the picture I didn't feel like getting it done because we all needed haircuts and I didn't feel up to anything formal. So, I was about to cancel when I thought of the idea to do it in an OSU theme. Might as well get it done because I had already paid for the session which only amounted to $15.oo, and from that we would get a free 10x13.

Today I went to pick up the free picture and was pleasantly surprised at how it turned out. We all looked pretty decent all things concerned!!

Selah- "You Deliver Me"

2010-02-02T13:08:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite Christian groups is Selah. Over the last several years I have enjoyed their music and have been very blessed by it. It was their album "Hiding Place" that ministered to me the most during my bout with breast cancer. When I felt discouraged I would put this cd on and instantly my heart would be at peace with the songs of hope and deliverance that they sang.

Over a year ago, Todd Smith, one of the singers in this group dealt with his own trial. He and his wife lost their baby girl. I was introduced to Angie's blog and followed her journey through this painful time in their life. Like her husbands music, her blog ministered to me.

Today, thousands of people view her blog. She is pregnant again and is sharing the joys of her pregnancy with others, along with the pain that still lingers over the loss of a child. Their testimony of God's faithfulness and the joy that has come through this circumstance is beautiful and a great encouragement.

I have known for a while that Selah has a new album out called, "You Deliver Me". It came out in August. I have been wanting it for several months and finally downloaded it to my i pod last night. It is wonderful!! I can't stop listening to the songs. It is a mixture of well loved hymns and songs that bring comfort and encouragement,and musically it is powerful, with a mixture of vocals, piano and strings. There is also a song dedicated to their daughter, Audrey. It is beautiful.

If you have time take a listen to some their music. You can find them at www.selahonline.com

An interview with Todd Smith

You Deliver Me- Selah

Pox or no Pox? That is the question.

2010-01-27T09:57:00.000-08:00

Night before last Mandi screams down the stairs that Emma has chickenpox. "I seriously don't believe so," I said. Until I looked at all the red bumps with a little white center that dotted Emma's shoulder, leg and chest. So... I kept Emma home from school yesterday. She spent the entire day playing Wii and didn't act sick one bit.

Now a day later nothing has changed. No new bumps and they don't even itch. Maybe they aren't pox. Maybe she's just the victim of bed bugs. EWWW!!! I can't even think of such yucky things. So I have stripped the sheets and washed twice her bedding in hot water in hopes to kill any nasty critters that might have lurked in her bed. I have also called the clinic because I don't think a perfectly healthy child should be home playing the wii all day long.

I know what your thinking... I think?.... Give that girl something else to do. Well, I have tried. I have bribed her to read a book. $5.00 is the price I am willing to pay her to read a book. She hates to read with a passion. Why, I really don't know. I love to get lost in a book and I can't really comprehend that someone may not enjoy that. She did do three other things yesterday besides sit in front of Mario Bros. wii game. One, she sharpened 25 pencils. Two, she made my bed. Yes sirree my bed was made for the first time in who knows how long. I thought Michael did it but seriously it looked too neatly made to be the work of my husband. I found out later that it was Emma. Third, she read Joshua three books, and helped him with his reading homework. I guess she doesn't mind reading out loud to her brother.

This morning it is back to the wii, but for a time limit. I have to leave her to go get Josh from Kindergarten and I am hiding the game and giving her another job to do. How about cleaning my room! If she is going to be home and act healthy at least my house can get clean.

We should know by tonight what those awful bumps are, hopefully. She has ski day with her school on Friday and doesn't want to miss it.

Pray that this isn't chickenpox so she can go back to school tomorrow!

I am signing off to go play wii with Emma before picking up Josh.

It's kind of addicting.

Graven: Impressed, Carved, Firmly Fixed

2010-01-19T19:39:00.000-08:00

"Isaiah XLIX 16" by Justin Ulmer Christian Modern Art

"I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands."

Isaiah 49:16

The image I get when I read this verse is when I have gripped something too tight I have an impression of that object in my hand. This impression eventually fades but to engrave takes it even further. It takes it to eternity. Yes, God has engraven you and I into his hands for eternity. You are not just written, but marked out, inscribed into his palms.

Fear. Fear is something we all experience. As a mother, I fear for my child's safety when they are not in my presence. As a wife, I fear that my husband will leave this life before me. I fear that my cancer will come back while I am still young and my children and husband have to carry on without me. Fear. It is a part of our daily life, but God doesn't want us to live this way. He wants us to surrender our fears and anxious ways to Him. I struggle with this daily. There is something so terribly hard about letting go and letting God. I don't know why- It sounds so simple, but tends to be so hard.

"That's not so hard to do ," you say, but what about when our greatest fears come true. Where is God then? Where is He in the mist of the Haitian disastrous earthquake. Where is He when sickness takes over a healthy body, or a spouse that you love deeply wants a diviorce. You name the situation, the list is long and we have all had our share of life altering pain. Has God forsaken us or them? NO! Nothing could be further from the truth.

This particular passage is written to the Israelites to remind them that God did not forsake them in their time of trouble, but this same truth is applicable for us today. He is the Creator, the Creator of everything- every nation, tribe and tongue. He also sent His only son, Jesus who took our sins upon himself who knew no sin so that we could spend eternity with Him if we accept His free gift of salvation. Jesus' nail pierced hands are phyical proof that He loves us so very much. John 10:28 says, "I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me."

Even in the mist of disaster, God is there ready to pick the country of Haiti up and bring beauty out of the ashes. I marvel at some of the images I have seen of Haitian people lifting their hands in praise to God. Even in the worst devestation those who know God recognize that He does indeed love them and will not forsake them.

He's there to pick you up and hold onto you tightly while you are going through the toughest of times. He is holding tightly, so tight that you are indeed graven in the palm of His hand. He will never let go. NEVER!

Charles Spurgeon wrote this-

No doubt a part of the wonder which is concentrated in the word "Behold," is excited by the unbelieving lamentation of the preceding sentence. Zion said, "The Lord hath forsaken me, and my God hath forgotten me." How amazed the divine mind seems to be at this wicked unbelief! What can be more astounding than the unfounded doubts and fears of God's favoured people? The Lord's loving word of rebuke should make us blush; He cries, "How can I have forgotten thee, when I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands? How darest thou doubt my constant remembrance, when the memorial is set upon my very flesh?" O unbelief, how strange a marvel thou art! We know not which most to wonder at, the faithfulness of God or the unbelief of His people. He keeps His promise a thousand times, and yet the next trial makes us doubt Him. He never faileth; He is never a dry well; He is never as a setting sun, a passing meteor, or a melting vapour; and yet we are as continually vexed with anxieties, molested with suspicions, and disturbed with fears, as if our God were the mirage of the desert.

"Behold," is a word intended to excite admiration. Here, indeed, we have a theme for marvelling. Heaven and earth may well be astonished that rebels should obtain so great a nearness to the heart of infinite love as to be written upon the palms of His hands. "I have graven thee."It does not say, "Thy name." The name is there, but that is not all: "I have graven thee." See the fullness of this! I have graven thy person, thine image, thy case, thy circumstances, thy sins, thy temptations, thy weaknesses, thy wants, thy works; I have graven thee, everything about thee, all that concerns thee; I have put thee altogether there. Wilt thou ever say again that thy God hath forsaken thee when He has graven thee upon His own palms?

Happy 14th Birthday Mandi!!!

2010-01-10T22:00:00.000-08:00

I can't explain how bitter sweet it was yesterday celebrating my oldest daughter's 14th birthday. On one hand it is so sad to say goodbye to the younger, needing mommy age but wonderfully sweet to see how God is growing my beautiful Amanda. She is lovely in every single way and a huge blessing to me.

I think I cried several times yesterday thinking over all the milestones in her 14 years of life. They were tears of happiness over the most wonderful memories. I love revisiting the past, but am so excited to think of the future and the places she'll go and the things she'll do for God. I know that He has an amazing plan for her.

My prayer is that I will be the loving, listening, encouraging mother that she needs as she goes through these last few years at home. I want to be a safe place for her, someone she can always talk to no matter what. I want to nag less about the little things that aren't that important.

*******************************************************************

Happy Birthday Sweet Mandi! You are so beautiful both inside and out. Your inner beauty is truly a reflection of God's great love. You shine sweet lady and I hope you keep that contagious smile going. It brightens my day, every day!! Keep Jesus first in your life. Let Him be your constant when the world and friends and even parents and siblings may not. Your are the princess of the Most High King. He created you and fashioned you so perfect.

There is not a detail in your life that God will not help you with. Commit all your ways to Him. God has a definite set of plans for your life and He is the One who will guide you every single step of the way. The Bible is full of verses that proclaim this truth! Here are some of those wonderful scriptures to dwell upon.

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope." (Jeremiah 29:11)

"The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord ... "(Psalm 37:23)

"A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps." (Proverbs 16:9)

"But whoever listens to me will dwell safely, and will be secure, without fear of evil." (Proverbs 1:33)

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." (Proverbs 3:5)

"Thus says the Lord, Your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: "I am the Lord your God, who teaches you to profit, who leads you by the way you should go." (Isaiah 48:17)

"Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass ... Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him." (Psalm 37:4,7)

Thank you for bringing your father and I and so many other people Joy by how you live your life. I can't wait to see what the future holds for you. Happy Birthday!

All my Love,
Mommy

Joshy's 6th Birthday!

2010-01-06T13:50:00.000-08:00

It's kinda sad that Joshy's b-day is a couple days after Christmas. No matter how hard I try to plan for it, it is still not quite the celebration I would like to give him. He's yet to have a friends birthday party. I wanted to get it together this year but strep throat kept it from happening. I guess it's never too late to have a party. I think a half birthday party in June would be a blast. It always seems easier to have such events at a park instead of the house.

Joshua's big day was special. We went to church. We were going to skip it because Mandi and Jeff were a bit tired still from having strep. But, Joshua begged us all to go anyway. I am always so happy my children love church and don't want to play hooky from it. After church we ate out at Izzy's Buffet. This was a huge treat for us. To go to Izzy's as a family is very spendy. I am so excited to tell stories of how God blesses. And the way we got to Izzy's is one of those stories.

Two days before Christmas, Michael and the kids and I went to Bend to finish our shopping. On the way home Jeff asked if we could eat out at Izzy's. We said no, but he persisted in asking along with the rest of the kids. The kids probably hear more than they should that famous phrase, "we can't afford it right now". Both Michael and I hate using that but for a family of 6 we really don't go out to eat much. Jeff, being the sweetheart that he is offered to pay for the meal with his own money. He seriously would have spent the $50.00 to treat us all to dinner. Money isn't something he holds onto or spends. Does that make sense? What I am saying is that he doesn't usually spend it on himself but will easily give it away to others.

We sincerely thanked Jeff for his generosity but suggested that we get Abby's pizza instead which was on sale and go to the market and get some fun ice cream. The kids were a bit disappointed but happy with the alternative. When we got home with our pizza and ice cream I remembered that a friend had dropped off a Christmas card under my mat. As we were eating, I opened the card and low and behold there was a gift card of $50 in it to Izzy's!! We were all pretty shocked and very thankful that we didn't give into our desire to go to Izzy's that night. It would not have been as much fun to get that if we had already gone.

The part that humbles me is that I know this gift was a huge sacrifice for this family.

So back to Joshy's birthday! Izzy's was so much fun and we got stuffed. We practically rolled out of there.

After eating we stopped of at our adoptive grandparents house. They were suppose to join us for Christmas but we had to cancel due to the strep sickness. We spend and hour visiting them before heading to the theatre where each kids chipped in their part for the cost of the movie. We saw "The Princess and the Frog". It was a cute Disney movie but I was rather disappointed with how much evil stuff they put in there. If I was a kids of 6 I am sure I would be scared to death. We had a wonderful discussion on evil afterward. It was a great teaching moment about how God wants us to protect our eyes and ears from evil things and how Satan delights in evil and wants to distract us from it.

After the movie it was back to the house to open presents and eat cupcakes and ice cream. It was a very fun, full day and I think Joshua went to bed a happy 6 year old.

Here are some pics of the new 6 year old on hes birthday and of the rest of the family.

Knit 1, Purl 2!!

2010-01-05T07:46:00.000-08:00

I wasn't sure what to say when my 11 year son came to me at Christmas break and told me he wanted to learn how to knit. I kind of chuckled inside but would never do that out loud so he would hear. Honestly, I have never seen a boy or man knit. That doesn't mean they don't, just haven't seen it. I told him that the best place to learn how to knit was at Mum's house ( my mom). She knits! I don't!

So...when we got to Mum's house, the first thing Jeff asked her was to teach him how to knit. His goal- to knit me a scarf by the time break was over.

Off to Michael's Craft Store we went to find some choice yarn and knitting needles. It's more expensive than I thought. I was thinking that I could buy myself a pretty little scarf for the same price. Jeff picked out a pretty brown, soft yarn. From that time on he has been busy knitting!

Two days into vacation I was so surprised to see that my son was sticking to it. Calm, peaceful are the words I think of to describe this kids when he knits. Which is almost amazing since I don't usually choose such words for him. (This is the kids who I had doctors telling me that he might have ADD and wanted to give him drugs.) At one point Jeff noticed this in himself and proclaimed that he found his inner peace. (Don't read too much into that comment. Jeff knows that Jesus is truly his inner peace.)

So for five days straight anytime I saw Jeff, he was knitting. I had to force the kid to do something else. Like, take a shower!! Eat! Sleep! There was no fighting with him and his siblings. And most of all...he wasn't bored.

I think he started the scarf over several times. With my mother's help Jeff learned how to cast on, purl, knit and cast off. She was so patient with him. It was definitely great bonding time for Mum and grandson.

At one point he asked me and Mum if it was weird that he was knitting. "Not at all" was her reply. "I've heard of football players who knit." That was all Jeff needed to hear to make it ok.

Now Jeff is dreaming of all the stuff he could knit for people. So... get in line if you want a scarf. He thinks he can make a business out of this. Or at least make them for gifts. I told him that might get a bit expensive. So he is working on his knitting skills, to get good enough to sell them.

My scarf is almost done. He worked all day yesterday to try and finish it. At the last moment something went wrong. The sad thing is that I can't help him. Where's my mom? She needs to live closer so he can seek her help. Any knitters close by who can help this boy? I'm afraid there won't be any peace for me until this scarf is done!

Jeff's famous knitting words:

"Don't mess with me, I'm purling."

"you better watch out or I'll purl you."

This was in the car ride home from Salem. I think Josh was starting to bug Jeff and this was his reply! We laughed and laughed.

Happy knitting Jeff!

Merry CHRISTmas and Happy New Year

2009-12-21T22:41:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to all our family and friends,

Blogs are a great invention.... if you can keep them updated! I started my blog over a year and a half ago and found it a wonderful way to let family and friends keep up with our ever so busy life. The last several months I have put my blog aside. I suppose there are several factors for doing so, like having very little time to sit in front of the computer, but the main reason has been because of my chronic pain. I just can't sit more than a few minutes in front of the computer before it throws my neck and arm into severe pain. So I have had to let that part of my life go for now. There are plenty our "must do" tasks that I need to perform that don't help my pain situation.

As you may gather from my first paragraph, this year has been another difficult but growing year for me. I have spent 12 months trying to seek the help of doctors to help my ongoing pain problem. Thus far, nothing has been solved. God is growing me in tremendous ways. I am learning to live my life joyfully in spite of my affliction. I am not quite sure how he might use this, but I am confident that He will. To God be the Glory!!

We have now been in Redmond over four years. We love it here and feel so blessed that God has placed us in a wonderful church to minister in. Michael loves his job at Redmond Community Church and can't imagine being anywhere else. We have a wonderful group of musicians, vocalists and tech people who sacrificially give of their time and talent each week. These folks are so wonderful to work with and we feel we are getting to know them well as we minister with them.

I,Kristin,have been keeping very busy with my growing piano lessons business and childcare. God has blessed me with 15 piano students!! I teach two evenings a week and on Friday mornings. I am totally in love with teaching and especially enjoy each and every child that I have. They brighten up my day. I also have a few children that I watch during the day. This isn't full time but it is enough to bring in a little extra money. The children I watch are darling and keep me happy and busy throughout the day.

Amanda, a.k. Mandi, is turning 14 next month. She is truly becoming a young woman before our eyes. It's hard to believe that in a year she will be getting her Learner's Permit. Michael and I have had a lot of joy watching Mandi mature into a lovely teen who loves Jesus with all her heart. She is so sweet and gentle, giving and kind but also has a very spunky, fun loving side to her. I am sure it won't be long before the boys start calling. Oh my... Daddy get your gun!!

Just recently Mandi had a huge part in her school play. I couldn't keep my eyes off her. She is so fun to watch and her spirit is so contagious. She really has a knack for drama. She also is very studious and is striving to get through her junior high years with straight A's. I never had that kind of drive at her age.

She still has her hopes set on Moody Bible College in Chicago, IL. She feels that God is leading her into full time missions when she gets older. She has a real passion and heart for Central America. This summer she really wants to go on a short term missions trip and has asked Michael and I to pray about it. To me it seems that she may be a tad bit young still to go away from home for that length of time. It's probably more me not wanting her to be away from us yet. I am pretty confident that her maturity level is there for such a trip. Our church does mission trip to Nicaragua and Argentina and I would love for her to start out on one of those trips with people that she knows from church.

Jeffrey is 11 and is getting taller every day. He is just a few inches away from my height. I am sure it won't be long before he will be looking me straight in the eyes. Jeff just got done with playing basketball for the 6th and 7th grade team at Central Christian. We attended almost every game and had a blast watching him improve over the season. He has a terrific side court shot and his height helps him get the rebounds.

Jeff is enjoying school to the fullest and really likes his 6th grade teacher who has been teaching some 30+ years. She has been so helpful in getting Jeff ready for Junior High. He is becoming more responsible and starting to learn good study habits.

Jeff is our fix-it man! He loves to fix things around the house. Michael loves this- except when he can't find his tools. I think Jeff will need his own tool kit soon!! He has also taken on the job of mowing the lawn. He does a wonderful job. He has the goal of starting his own mowing business this spring. He wants to make some extra money. Not to spend, but to save. Boy is he a saver. He still hasn't spent his b-day money from his May birthday. He is also a giver! I love that trait in him.

Jeff also loves playing his guitar. This year he has taught himself how to play. He regularly plays for chapel on Wednesdays at school. Michael was asked to lead the chapel music each week and has let some of the 6th grade boys join him with their guitars. It truly blesses my heart to see my son using his gifts for God.

Emma, she is almost 10 and full of life. She is has become a real mother's helper this year. I know that if I ask Emma to clean something that she will do it with all her heart and do it to perfection. Believe me... she didn't learn her organizational skills from me. She makes me want to be a more organized person. But that will never be! Every morning her room is perfect. It is the only room in the house that I will not shut the door on. She has learned that she can get money from her siblings by cleaning their rooms. This we had to put a stop to.

Emma's type A personality shines through at school. She received straight A's last quarter. This is the girl who had such a rough start because of her speech problem. I remember so vividly how we could not understand her at all when she was between the ages of 2-4. Her hard working personality has really helped her overcome that speech impediment.

Emmie starts basketball through the park and rec program in January. This will be her first year playing ball on a team. Of course, she plays with her siblings every chance she gets and is a feisty player. Watching her games will be a ton of fun!

Lastly, there is Joshua. Josh turns 6 two days after Christmas. I remember so well the Christmas I was pregnant with him. He is truly a blessing. I am so glad God had one more child for us. When all the other children are growing more independent day by day it is nice to still have little Joshy home half days and have him by my side.

Josh is in Kindergarten and loves it. He is known to say "Today was the best day ever". Every day ends up being his best! I love his zest for life. He loves hanging out with his big brother and copying all Jeff does. This sometimes isn't the best thing, but I have enjoyed watching their relationship grow. Jeff is an amazing big brother- so patient and includes him in most things that he does.

Josh also starts b-ball this January. He is so excited! He plays in our driveway almost everyday and won't quit until he makes a certain amount of baskets. Josh's strong trait is his persistence. He is also so easygoing. I guess that comes from being the fourth. Josh was baptized this summer by Michael and really loves Jesus. It gives me great joy to know that each one of my kids have made a decision to ask Jesus into their heart. Now it is my prayer daily that they will follow Him wholeheartedly.

This brings me to my wish for you this Christmas season- I pray that you will remember what Christmas is all about. Jesus, the King of Kings, chose to be born in a lowly manger; he lived a humble but perfect life and gave up his life so that you and I have the gift of eternal life. We who were once dead because of sin can now have life if we choose to put our faith in Him. This is the ultimate "free gift" and there is nothing we need to do for it except to simply receive it. I hope that if you are reading this today and you have not accepted by faith this gift that you will put your hope in God and give your life over to Him.

If you have a personal relationship with him then my pray for you is Duet. 10:12- “And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you, but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways and to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul."

May your year be filled with many blessings that God wants to give you as you surrender your lives wholly to Him.

Merry CHRISTmas and Happy New Year.

Love,

The Kuhlman Family

Civil War

2009-12-02T22:56:00.001-08:00

The 113th Civil War: Oregon State @ Oregon

When: 6 p.m., Dec. 3
Where: Autzen Stadium, Eugene
TV: ESPN

Beavers to watch

1 RB Jacquizz Rodgers: The sophomore was the big missing ingredient for Oregon State in last year's Civil War, when the Beavers could muster just 89 yards rushing. Oregon State is 5-1 this season when Rodgers rushes for at least 100 yards.

5 QB Sean Canfield: The senior, who will play in his first Civil War, is having a great season. He has completed 70.3 percent of his passes (260 of 370) for 2,797 yards, 19 touchdowns and six interceptions. His emergence is the main reason OSU leads the Pacific-10 Conference in passing yards (272.5 per game) and is second in total offense (422.2).

8 WR James Rodgers: If OSU makes a big play that swings the game's momentum, it will likely come from Rodgers. The junior leads the Pac-10 in receiving with 77 catches for 865 yards, is the Beavers' second-leading rusher (260 yards) and returns kickoffs and punts. In nine of OSU's 11 games this season, Rodgers has at least one play of 25 yards or longer.

54 DT Stephen Paea: The junior is the foundation of OSU's defense, a player so strong he commands double- and triple-teams. Despite the constant blocking attention, he leads OSU in sacks with three, and 5 1/2 tackles for loss.

The Amp Civil War is the colloquial name for the annual college football game in the U.S. state of Oregon between the Oregon State Beavers and the Oregon Ducks. First played in 1894, it is the seventh-oldest college football rivalry game in the United States.

Back to the Land of the Living

2009-10-26T08:31:00.000-07:00

Our house was hit hard with the piggy flu this last week. Three kids including myself were housebound for eight days with the worst sickness we have had in years. I can't remember ever feeling this sick or having so many sick in one house at once.

Everyone is back to the land of the living. We are feeling tired but much better. There is so much makeup work to do and a lot of laundry, but ....anything is better than being in bed.

At times in my life I have imagined being sick and getting a break from everyday living to watch old movies, read deliciously good books, and sleep, sleep, sleep whenever I wanted. I had never had the flu that landed me in bed for seven days before. Now I know how horribly awful it is, and nothing sounds good. In fact, I am rejoicing that I felt well enough to get up and get going this morning!

I have to comment just how wonderful my hubby has been these last several days. He has kept my house running and my piano business going. He kept lots of water down our throats and made many bowls of chicken noodle soup. Took trips to the doctor, the store, and kept the house sanitized. THANK YOU HONEY!!!!!

I pray that everyone who reads this is staying healthy and doesn't get this horrible yuckiness. If you do get it... call me and I will bring you chicken noodle soup!! I remember when my friend Alisa brought us yummy homemade chicken noodle soup when we were sick in Eugene. Nothing compares to her noodle soup!!

Eat Yogurt!!

2009-10-13T08:30:00.000-07:00

AND.......

I have started a team on the Yoplait web site. The goal of this team is to collect as many pink lids as possible before Dec.31, 2009. You can join my team if you would like to help me collect lids. This is such an easy way to support those people in your lives that have either died of breast cancer, survived it, or are currently battleing breast cancer. I titled the team "Save the Ta Tas". Go to the website and sign up to join my team. I can't wait to see just how many pink lids we can get!!

For every pink lid you send in by December 31, 2009 Yoplait® will donate 10 cents to Susan G. Komen for the Cure®, up to $1.5 million. And we guarantee a donation of at least $500,000. So grab your friends, coworkers, yoga class or neighbors and start getting involved today. Visit Yoplait's website
Rinse, bag, and mail lids to:

Save Lids to Save Lives©
P.O. Box 420704
El Paso, TX 88542-0704

2009-10-12T08:58:00.000-07:00

According to the American Cancer Society, there are now about 2.5 million breast cancer survivors living in the United States.

As breast cancer survivors go on with their lives, there are many changes they will face in the months and years after completing their treatment. Breast cancer survivors are faced with the possibility of the cancer coming back (recurrence), as well as an increased risk of developing a new breast cancer. Recurrence is possible, even if a woman has undergone a mastectomy, or breast removal.

The good news is, although there is no way to completely prevent a breast cancer recurrence, there are many ways for a woman to lower her risk. If you are a breast cancer survivor, the following five tips may help you keep breast cancer from returning.

1) Follow-up Care
Regular doctor appointments, exams and tests are essential in protecting against a breast cancer recurrence and in detecting a recurrence in its earliest stages. A careful examination is recommended every three to six months for the first three years after primary therapy, every 6 to 12 months for the next two years, and then annually.

Follow-up exams usually include an examination of the breasts, chest, neck, and underarm areas. Your doctor may conduct or order physical exams, blood tests or imaging studies. Be sure to tell your doctor about any swelling, tightness, or injury to the hand or arm, which could be a sign of lymphedema, a swelling of the arm caused by fluid build up, and a potential side effect of breast cancer. With care, this condition may be avoided or kept under control.

Regular doctor visits are also an opportunity to discuss any side effects, such as fatigue, or health problems. Symptoms may be an indication of cancer recurrence, and sharing them with your doctor will ensure early diagnosis and treatment. Or, symptoms may be indicative of another health problem or side effect from treatment.

2) Mammography Screening and Self-examination
Mammography screening, which is a simple x-ray scan of the breasts, remains the best available method to detect breast cancer early. Although no medical tests are always 100 percent accurate, mammograms, as well as monthly breast self-examinations, are important steps to guard against recurrence. You can find more information about monthly breast self-exams by logging on to The American Cancer Society from your computer. You obtain free downloadable breast self-exam cards by visiting the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Web site.

Please note that monthly self-exams are not meant as a substitute for periodic exams by your doctor.

3) Continuing Treatment
Hormonal breast cancer treatment often includes tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors. Survivors who are being treated with these drugs should continue to take them regularly for the prescribed time. In clinical studies, tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors have been shown to lower the risk of a breast cancer recurrence and lower the risk of new breast cancers for certain women.

Tamoxifen can increase the risk of a certain type of uterine cancer, so those being treated with tamoxifen should have a pelvic exam every year and tell their doctor right away if there is abnormal vaginal bleeding. For those women taking an aromatase inhibitor, your doctor should also keep a close eye on your bone density as these medications may weaken bone structure.

4) Healthy Eating
Women recovering from breast cancer are encouraged to follow established guidelines for good health. Working with a doctor is the best way for survivors to develop a safe nutrition and exercise plan that matches their needs.

Breast cancer research has shown that obesity and weight gain can increase the risk of recurrence. They also raise the risk of other important disorders, such as heart disease and diabetes. An overall healthy diet - one that is low in fat and high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains - may protect against cancer.

5) Exercise
Regular exercise provides real benefits to breast cancer survivors. A recent study in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management, March 2007, showed that women with breast cancer that has spread beyond the breast may benefit from participating in a tailored yoga program that includes gentle yoga postures, breathing exercises, and meditation.

In addition to helping maintain a healthy weight, physical activity such as yoga can rebuild strength and energy while reducing stress. Exercise can also reduce symptoms of fatigue, nausea and pain. So, choose an activity that suits you and get active!

This article came from The National Breast Cancer Awareness site. There is a lot of great information on this site- take a look!!

Happy Birthday Mom!!

2009-10-08T13:44:00.001-07:00

Rejoice in who who you are in Christ!!!

You are fearfully and wonderfully made and we love you so much! We hope you had a wonderful day and can't wait to celebrate your birthday this weekend.

Lots of love,

Michael, Kristin, Mandi, Jeff, Emma, and Josh

Joshy Update

2009-10-02T16:59:00.000-07:00

Here's an update on Joshy's infection-

A huge praise that the antibiotics are starting to work. His lump is going down in size. He is taking his "yucky" medicine like a man!!

Another praise is the doctor found another antibiotic that is similar in strength to clyndimyicin but it is generic and costs a lot less. We will be able to get a refund on the four bottles we haven't used yet and get the other antibiotic.

Thanks for all the prayers!

The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. (James 5:16 b)

Please Pray for Josh

2009-10-01T21:31:00.000-07:00

I want to make this real quick. This morning when I was dressing Joshy for school I noticed that he had a bump on his leg in the exact same location where his staff infection was a year and a half ago.

For those who don't know what happened back then-

Josh had a mysterious lump on his leg that grew in size very quickly. I mean it doubled, like to the size of a golf ball. We took him in and the doctor had blood test ordered to make sure that it wasn't lymphoma or anything and then prescribed antibiotics. I was at a our women's conference when I got the call that the blood test came back fine, but by the time I got home my baby (4) was running a high fever of 105, and the lump had grown even bigger and now was bright red. We took him in right away and the doctor that saw him emitted him right away to the hospital. The next morning he had surgery to remove the infection.

So- Here we are a year and a half later. The doc says that it is the same infection. She said that only 5% of patients get it a second time. Well, Josh is in the 5%. We are currently giving him strong antibiotics and watching him closely. This lump is very painful to him and he is a little worried that he will have to have surgery again. The doctor is thinking that we caught it in time but we are not in the clear yet.

Please pray that this (very expensive, but well worth it) antibiotic will do it's job and we will not have a repeat surgery. Pray that I will set my mind on God and not be anxious. I can handle myself dealing with sickness and pain, but when it's my child that a whole different thing. I am very weary of all the medical problems we have continuously had the last four years and desire rest from them. I do know that God is good and faithful. I hold on to those truths!!

Thanks so much for your continued prayers!

A Fun Surprise!!

2009-09-29T19:24:00.000-07:00

At 10 o'clock on Sunday morning I was sitting with the kids in our living room with pj's still on and very bad bed hair. We were having our very own church service. You see, I got absolutely no sleep the night before, and looked like death warmed over. I had no plans on attending Sunday service.

After I was done reading the passage of Scripture to the children and having a serious heart to heart with one of my kids over the meaning of that passage, Mandi suggested we get ready fast and try and make the service. All I have to say was I am so glad that second service starts as late as it does.

We walked in a few minutes late. For those who know me well, I hate to be late. I also hate to miss the worship time. Mandi and I took our usual seats in the front row and finished singing the song. Michael told us to greet one another and as I turned to greet, my mom and dad caught my eye!

They drove two hours from the Salem area to come to our church and to see us for the day, and I had no idea. What a beautiful and wonderful surprise. Earlier that morning, when I couldn't sleep I entertained the idea of piling the kids into the car and visit my parents for the day and even surprise them at their church. It was something I so badly wanted to do but knew that I would have a hard time doing with the amount of sleep I had that night.

We had a wonderful day with them and it was just what I needed to pick up my spirits.

No matter how old I get or how busy I get in life, I still need my parents. Whether it is talking to them on the phone and telling them all my pains and trials or reading about their day on face book, or seeing them only for a few hours on a Sunday- my day is instantly better!!

I pray that my kids will desire my presence and advice and love as much as I need my parents.

Thanks mom and dad for the fun surprise on Sunday!! It made my week so much better!

Back To School!

2009-09-15T18:08:00.000-07:00

Dear Family and Friends,

It's Tuesday, September 16th and school has begun.

Last Monday, Labor Day, after a fun and adventuresome drive on the Cascade Lakes Highway, I accepted a short term job to help out at the new Lone Pine Community School. This new school which is situated in the beautiful Lone Pine Valley is very special. I have spent the last few school days teaching a small group of kids who range from kindergarten- 2nd grade. To be exact, I have six kids which does not include Joshua who comes after kindergarten gets out at CCS.

I now have a wonderful picture of how school use to be. Basically, this two room school house is functioning like the schools use to at the turn of the century. I have great respect for the teachers who taught multiple grades. They must have had great classroom management.

Today while helping the first graders with their cursive, a second grade boy volunteered to help the kindergarten boy with his work. The scene was so precious. Even though the group is small, it is challenging to work with 3 different grades. These children are learning far more than just the 3 R's. They are learning to give of themselves, to work together, to show love to those who are younger than them. I have seen this scene over and over these last few days and see why such a school will become very desirable to families in the Lone Pine community and it's surrounding areas.

I am only teaching for two more days. I have become quite fond of these sweet kids and will have a difficult time leaving. I know that God has great plans for this community Christian school and I feel so blessed to have been a part of it if only for a few days.

Now for my children and their first few days of school-

All four children are attending CCS this year. I prayed all summer for God to make it clear what the plan was. I was open to all the options and at the final hour, a week before school began Michael and I had our answer. A great BIG thanks to the Grandparents and Auntie Nancy and Uncle Dave for contributing to our children's education. With their help, my job of teaching 1o piano students, and a couple babysitting jobs, we are able to sent the kids to the Christian School. I can't express how happy they were when they found out that they were going back. It has been a wonderful school for them.

Their first few days have been wonderful. They love their new teachers and are enthusiastic so far about the work they are doing.

Jeffrey proclaimed that he loves 6th grade!! I just can't believe he is actually in 6th grade. He has become very responsible lately. He has also discovered that he needs a shower every morning and deodorant is a must. I wonder when he will start liking girls?

Mandi is an eight grader. She is setting her goals high. She wants to run for president and is working hard so she can graduate from junior high with honors. Nothing is going to stop this girl from rising to the top. All I can say is, "way to go Mandi"!

Emma is becoming "little miss social". She is in the fourth grade and She loves to talk on the phone with her friends. I think she goes to school only to see her friends but does excellent in her studies. She is very organized and has her lunch packed for the next day before I remind her. It will be fun to see her blossom this year. So far there is very little girl drama in her class. It's refreshing to hear that the girls are all getting along.

Joshy is finally in kindergarten. My little caboose is now in school 5 days a week in the morning. His first day of school didn't happen. Since I was out at Lone Pine, Michael had the great responsibility to get the four kids to school. Josh didn't handle it so well. He was excited before hand but when it came time to go in his new room with his new teacher he got anxious. Michael didn't have the heart to leave Josh so upset and drove him out to Lone Pine to hand him over to me. So, of course Josh had a wonderful day- he was with his mommy!! I am happy to report that he made it to school the next day and loved it!! Now he is excited to go every morning.

Our family has had to be very organized these last couple of weeks in order for life to run smoothly. I can't say enough how wonderful my sweet hubby has been in helping me with dinners, laundry, dishes, car pool and much more so that I can work out at Lone Pine. I also want to give my kids some praise for all the little things that they have done to help out. I have so much respect for mothers who work and still manage the household. It takes everyone in the family to pitch in and do their job.

I have missed blogging and hope to have some time in the near future to post some great, fun pictures of the summer. I hope the first few weeks of school have gone smoothly for all of you. I think of and pray often for you all and the wonderful task God has given you as a mommy and wife and teacher to your kids. Be encouraged that you are truly a blessing to your household. Your love and devotion to your kids and husband is God honoring and He will bless you.

Serving God and our families together,

Taking A Break

2009-08-26T22:50:00.001-07:00

It has been many moons since I have blogged. Summer life is much too busy for me to be on the computer. I guess you can say that I am boycotting it!

Quick update for those who may still look occasionally (ie. my mother).

Natalie, my niece, who had surgery a couple of weeks ago is doing great! It was a success and the doctor was so pleased with the outcome; better than he thought. She is full of energy and getting into mischief like normal. I have heard great stories of how funny and brave she was in the hospital. Of course she was loved by all!

At one point she took her I.V. tube and put it to her mouth like a micro phone and started singing "Holy, Holy, Holy". Michael was so proud! In no time at all she'll be on the worship team.

We took a short but sweet family vacation to Grants Pass. Played in Nana's pool a lot and kicked around our home town. It was fun to take the kids to our old houses. There were a lot of them. Time flies by fast! There are so many wonderful memories in that town.

Our favorite day was the four mile hike down the lower Rogue River to Rainy Falls. Boy was there a lot of poison oak! We ate lunch on the rocks and watch the fish jump the rapids. There were some large trout trying to get back up stream to spon. After a wonderful hike we headed to the Galice Store for ice cream. This cute little store/restaurant was where I spent my summer waitressing before I married Michael. I remember one Friday night he surprised me. He drove down from Portland and was sitting at one of my tables. It was Karaoke night and he lovingly sang, "Somewhere Out There". You know... the mouse song. Galice was also the place we had our rehearsal dinner. Again, great memories.

Monday, I had a job interview at an Elementary school in town. I heard today that they gave the job to someone else. I was a bit bummed, but feel at peace with the decision. I applied so I could try and keep the kids at the Christian school.

Even though I didn't get the job the kids are going back. We have a good portion of the monthly bill gifted to us by family. Thank you- the kids are so happy they are returning. God is also growing my piano business. He provides just what we need at the right time. Why do I ever worry?

I am excited for school to start and to get back into a daily schedule. I really need it in my life. Michael worked out my weekly schedule for me tonight. He is trying to get me organized so I can relax. I don't do schedules, but I might just do his. It looks good on paper. He has me exercising every morning at 6:00. We'll see about that. :) I have been complaining all month how I have no time to exercise. See what happens when you complain?

Actually, I have a friend who wants to lone me her gym membership while she tries something else out. It looks tempting and I am going to go check out the gym when she gets home from vacation. To be honest, I am a bit intimidated by the gym. Everyone looks so fit! Michael says that's because they go to the gym. Yeah, I know, but I am thinking I should get in shape before I go so I don't stand out like a sore thumb. HMMMM, I think I better just get over it and go. They have some pretty great classes but guess what... they are all in the early morning! I will have to become an early bird, not a night owl!

Well so much for just posting a cute little cartoon about taking a break from the computer. I guess I had more to say than I thought. Now my sweet hubby has fallen asleep without me. Time to tip toe upstairs and get in bed without a peep.

Oh yeah, did I mention I'm taking a break from my blog? I'll be back when I have something to say.

Enjoy the last couple of weeks of summer!! Make special memories with the kids. They grow up much too fast.

Redmond's Children's Theater Company

2009-08-07T23:17:00.000-07:00

The children's Theater Company had their opening night tonight.

"The Emperor's New Clothes"

I am the proud mom of an actress and an actor who worked many hours along with 25+ kids ages 8-13. I knew that it would be very entertaining and quality, but it superseded all my expectations.

I can't say enough how GREAT this play is!

This is the first play that the Children's Theater Company has put on. They plan to do three productions a year, with the next one being "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever". The children started rehearsing two days a week for 3 hours a day back in June, and boy did it pay off.

Mandy played the grandmother and did it wonderfully. Jeffrey had a smaller but important role as a towns person. They both have been keeping very busy with rehearsals which has helped with "summer boredom".

Tonight was family night and their Nana and Papa came to watch. Cliff, (Papa) has been in many plays and knows a good production when he sees one. This past the test with flying colors.

The set was beautifully done with added touches that helped make it look more 3D. The costumes were authentic looking, and the makeup looked professional. The acting was terrific and they even had audience participation which livened it up even more.
Emma, who didn't want to try out for the play ended up being on stage. She was picked to go up on stage to help with sound effects. She did her part well!

For those of you who live here, consider going to one of the next two plays. Tomorrow night, Saturday, it starts at 7:00pm and on Sunday it is at 2:30. It is $3.00 per person or $15.00 per family. It is very entertaining for both the young and old (and everyone in between). The kids are sure to love it!!

Josh said after it was over...

"That was the best!"

Hawaii Trip -Part 2

2009-08-05T22:30:00.000-07:00

Ok- I am now ready to post the next part to our Hawaiian trip to Oahu.

If you missed Part 1 you can click here to read about our transportation there.

So it was around 1:00 in the afternoon when we arrived at the Ko'Olina Beach Resort. Yes, my wonderful navigation skills did get us there. Michael and I were pleasantly surprised to be at such a beautiful, family fun resort.

Michael had asked prior to getting there if they had an ocean room that might be available. He had mentioned that it was our 15th anniversary. I am sure they get a lot of that, but it doesn't hurt to ask, right? Actually, I am not the type to ask, so, I leave that all up to the hubby. I usually get embarrassed asking such questions, because I figure that the answer will be no. Michael, on the other hand, feels no shame in at least asking. And...it usually pays off in some way.

So, the answer was no, but we will do our best to put you in a room that has a nice view.

Indeed, they did find a room that had a nice view. We ended up being on the fifth floor. I think there were 10 floors in all. If it wasn't an ocean view it was a mountain view or a view of the other buildings. We had two beautiful palm trees that shaded us from the sun and gave us privacy from the other buildings. But we were very excited to get a partail ocean view. If you sit just in the right place on the deck there it was!!! This picture is a close up of our partial ocean view. The one above shows the ocean view like we actually saw it (from the corner of the lanai).

The accommodations far exceeded our expectations! I could have lived in this mini apartment for the whole time. It was so sweet!! But, alas, we were in Hawaii and staying in would be a shame!!

It had a full kitchen, living room, bedroom and a his and hers "getting ready area" just in case I didn't want to be around my husband. Of course, that wasn't the case! But, it did come in handy. His space...always clean!!! Mine, is always a major mess. I know that Michael appreciated his own space and was glad that I had mine.

There was a shower bathroom and a tub bathroom. The tub space was mine. I actually never take baths. I don't like them much, but I dreamt that I liked them. Still, I didn't touch it! There was a window from the tub to the bedroom. It had shutters on it. Cute, don't you think. Really, I am not sure it has any other function except to make the man happy.

So, there you have it!!! A sneak peak into our lovely Hawaiian accommodations.

Part 3 of our trip will be about our first full day in Hawaii; our day trip to Hanaumu Bay and Waikiki Beach. Though I can't really guarantee when that will be posted. Summer, kids, housework, reviewing homeschool curriculum, babysitting, piano lessons, taxing kids around, (do you get the point?) is keeping me away from the blog.

Have a great day,

Portland's Pushiest Pug

2009-07-28T23:22:00.000-07:00

I saw the silliest thing on the news tonight; a pug named Jenny pushing an umbrella stroller around Portland. Apparently the owner of this pug made this video for their son who is away from home. They were hoping the video of his dog and familiar places of Portland would remind him of home. Over night this video has gotten lots and lots of hits.

The you tube video is below. Make sure you pause my play list. Sit back, relax and enjoy this video that is put to soothing music.

Keep Natalie in your prayers!

2009-07-27T16:30:00.000-07:00

Here is a prayer request.

Many of you may remember reading about my dear sweet niece who was born premature with multiple heart problems. You can read Natalie's story on a previous blog.

Below is an email that my grandmother sent out to friends and family asking for prayer. I decided that what she wrote couldn't be said better and have decided to paste it into my blog. Kimmie and Jeremy (Natalie's mom and dad) recently have received word that Natalie needs to have this surgery soon. The surgery date is scheduled for August 18th up in Portland, Oregon. Thank you for praying for my sweet niece. I just know that God has great plans for this little girl and He does indeed hear all of our prayers.

Jeremy, Kimmie, Isabella and Natalie

************************************************

We never cease to need the Lord, and to know that He answers prayers according to His will. I've enclosed a number of pictures of our little two year Natalie Borg. One was taken soon after she was born in March 2007.
She was a premature baby, who was ambulanced first from the Silverton Hospital where she was rushed at birth, then to the Salem Hospital, and soon to the Children's Hospital in Portland. It was there that she had two major heart surgeries and corrections within the first 2 weeks of her life. Other pictures were taken on her first birthday, as well as her 2nd birthday this year.

These pictures were taken around "tulip time" here in the Willamette Valley. She is a vivacious, smiling happy, little girl who will warm your heart when you meet her. Isabella is less than a year older, and they are very close as sister. Natalie greatly resembles Kimberly, her mother, with the light red hair. They are "look-alikes", and both were premature babies !

But we knew that eventually Natalie would have to have more heart surgery. It seems that such an occurrence could be soon. Natalie had her heart check-up this week by the cardiologist from Portland, and it appears to be quite enlarged, with the blood not flowing like it should. I am NOT medical, however, so I can't give you the particulars. Her heart is pumping blood much too hard. she plays hard, but tires easily. the doctors will be having a panel discussion about Natalie's case on Thursday, July 23. It will be decided soon after that, and appears fairly certain that she will have another heart surgery.

Please pray for her and for God's will in the decision. Thanks Always, Sue

************************************

Leave a comment if you are praying for Natalie. Kimmie and Jeremy will be so blessed to know that people are praying!!!

A little behind in blogging!

2009-07-27T12:15:00.001-07:00

This summer is flying by way too fast!! My days are filled with child care, piano lessons, running the kids everywhere and much, much more. I'm having a hard time keeping up with my blog and all the posts that I need to post!

I wonder if I will ever get a chance to get our Hawaii trip documented. It now seems like a distant memory. Shucks!! I kinda wish I was there right now!

With the kids all home, one computer to six people isn't enough. Each child wants to do their own thing on the computer so I naturally don't get my computer time. With these busy summer days I just fall into bed exhausted. There is not much energy left to write, place pictures and all the other stuff that comes with blogging.

We just got back from my cousin's wedding on Whidbey Island in Washington. It was a very fast trip up to the Seattle area. We had the pleasure of visiting one of Michael's long time childhood friends and his family. It was nice to see family and celebrate this wedding, but the many hours in the car with tired, cranky children really wore me out. I am so glad to be home. Maybe I will find some time to post the beautiful pictures that were taken on this last trip and maybe I will finish another part to our Hawaii vacation.

For now- I have too much laundry and cleaning to do to stay on this computer any longer. I also have one of the kids begging to get on Webkins. I sort of wish this site did not exist! Emma could easily spend many hours playing with her pets on this site. Webkins is to Emma is like blogging is to Kristin!!!!

Stay cool in this HOT weather, and have a beautiful day!

In Him,

Joshua is Baptized!!

2009-07-21T23:05:00.000-07:00

This last Sunday, July 19th, Joshua was baptized by his daddy.

A few months ago, Joshua asked Jesus to come into his life. Even though he is still very young, I know that he understands that Jesus loves him so much and died on the cross for him and took his sins away so he could go to heaven someday. It is as simple as that! Josh has that simple faith of a child. He doesn't have to analyze everything or even have it all figured out in his head to make this important decision. He simply BELIEVES!!

Matthew 18:1-5 says-

At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, verily I say unto you, except you be converted, and become as little children, you shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever shall receive one such little child in my name receives me.

Joshua remembered his older siblings getting baptized a couple of years ago. He wanted to do the same. He totally understood why he was getting baptized. He wanted to show people that he loves Jesus and that he gave his life to Him. This blessed mine and Michael's heart greatly. It gives us great joy that all four of our children have a heart to follow Christ. They know that they belong to Him and want to live their life for Him.

So, on Sunday, Josh was baptized by Michael at our annual church baptism and picnic at the pond. Over 30 people were baptized. Many of them were family groups. It was a very exciting and emotional time. Both sets of grandparents came for the baptism.

It is truly a day that we will always remember and celebrate!!

In this picture Papa Kuhlman is talking to Josh about baptism!

Here are some other pictures of the day at the baptism and picnic.

Hawaii Trip - Part 1 "Our Transportation"

2009-07-16T18:25:00.000-07:00

I am finally caught up with all my posts and can now start posting pictures of our Oahu trip. For some reason, I feel the need to do everything in chronological order. Who knows how long my journals of this trip will be because I will probably spared no deals! It may end up being several parts.

So, here it goes!

We left for Hawaii Wednesday, June, 23. We flew out of the Medford Airport at 6:00 in the morning to catch our Alaskan Airlines flight out of Seattle.
This was my first time flying since 9/11 and all went smooth. Michael and I tried to pack light so we could fit everything in our carry ons. This was easier said than done. I realized later that the carry on luggage I bought from Wal Mart, for $20, was much smaller than everyone else's. This means I could have brought more! I really wished I had taken a picture of how much stuff I fit into a small carry on suitcase. I, now can claim the "master packer" title.

Once we boarded the airplane in Seattle, I realized that this long awaited "honeymoon" was finally here.

Michael lovingly gave me the window seat and I was mesmerized by the beauty of the Puget Sound and the view of Seattle and surrounding area. It didn't take long before all we saw was ocean and boredom set in. Yes, I did bring plenty of books to read, music to listen to, but I didn't feel like doing any of it. Maybe because I was too excited. Really, all I wanted to do was sleep, but the wonderful seats my husband picked out for us were the ones that didn't recline. GREAT!! There will be no kick back and relax on this trip. Michael wasted no time in snoozing off. I couldn't figure out how he could go to sleep so quick and in such an upright position, so I took up people watching without the people knowing that I was watching them.

People, they sure are interesting. You know how you tell your kids to not stare because it is impolite? Well, I guess I needed that reminder myself on this long flight. I ended up taking care of my boredom by watching the family that occupied the same row as us. You sure can learn a lot about people by just watching them. They were a very interesting family. I wonder what people think of us?

The other problem I had on this flight was the bathroom issue. I am a rather shy person Since I had the window seat, it was much harder to just get up and go to the bathroom. You have to bother, not only your sleeping husband, who seems to be dead to the world, but also the other man on the isle seat who is grossly involved in his work or something. I was NOT about to interrupt them. So I was hoping desperately that one of them would have to go potty soon. I waited, and waited and yes, waited some more. The funny thing is, just when I was in desperate need to go and decided to interrupt the sleeper and worker, the seat belt sign came on due to turbulence. Then after the sign went off the airplane attendants decided to do their snack and beverage trip. Stuck!! I was stuck to see just how good my bladder really was. Long story short, I made it!!!

I bet your wondering when this flight talk will be over and the Hawaii part will begin. Well, we've landed!!! Yeah!!! I was more than happy to step on land and be done with flying.

We landed in Honolulu around noon. The time difference there is 3 hours ahead of Oregon. Since we were smart and took just carry on bags we were out the door and ready to pick up our cute, little, economy car for the week. I wonder what it will be?

The car rental was part of the package. We ended up with a cute Ford Focus The car rental was part of the package deal that Marriott was giving us.

I guess they usually run $80 a day, but all we had to pay was a $45 fee. We had the option to upgrade it to a jeep or a convertible for only $13 more a day, but we were trying to do this Oahu trip on a major budget. The Ford Focus suited our needs just fine. If you ask Michael, he would say that he kind of regrets not doing the convertible. I just keep reminding him of the possible rain showers, bugs and the heat.

So, off we drive to go find our paradise beach resort. This was easier said than done. Michael is driving. I am suppose to be navigating him but the problem with that is, I am NOT good with maps. This is one gene I didn't inherit from my mother. I know she is cringing right now of the thought of me trying to get Michael around Honolulu and to Ko Olina Beach Resort. I tried my best to get us there, but Hawaiian words all look the same to me and I can't pronounce them at all. OK, honestly, that wasn't my biggest problem. You see, I am just so excited to be there and I'm taking it ALL in. I am not concentrating on the map at all. Phooey on the map, let's just be carefree and see where the road takes us.

As you can imagine, Michael, who is type A all the way, is rather frustrated with his "fly by the seat of her pants" wife.

The good news- We made it!!! And, we are still together!

To be continued....

Part 2 - "Our Beautiful Hotel Accommodations"

Hiking and Camping @ Silver Falls June 2009

2009-07-09T20:00:00.000-07:00

Michael booked this sweet little cabin in the Silver Falls campground so that we could have a nice, memorable time with the kids before we took off to Hawaii. I wasn't too thrilled at first about packing for a "sort of" camping trip and a Hawaiian trip at the same time. It just seemed like a lot of work for one night. It was....but, I have to say, that it was tons of fun and I can't wait to go back. Yes, I even loved the cabin. I (who grew up going camping many times in a summer) was very comfortable in this little cabin.

The three older kids slept in a tent and Michael, Josh and I slept in the cabin. I think it is a perfect way to camp, however, I can't wait to do it the old fashion way.

We also hiked one of the easier hikes at Silver Falls State Park, South Falls. It was short and sweet, but just what the kids needed that day. Someday I would love to do the whole loop. I hear it is just beautiful and you'll get a lot of exercise!

If you would like more info on Silver Falls check out these great websites: Oregon.com, Oregonstateparks.org and Salemoregon.com.

Like I said in my earlier blog, my family from Aumsville, which is just 25 min. away came to help me celebrate my birthday. My mom brought all the fixings for hot dogs and some yummy sides and a cake.

I really enjoyed having all my family around me.

64 Years of Marriage

2009-07-07T22:28:00.000-07:00

My Grandpa and Grandma just celebrated 64 years of marriage on June 23rd.

What a wonderful example they have been to their kids, grand kids, and now great grand kids of a marriage that God has been in the center of.

Michael and I have just barely begun compared to this marriage.

Thanks Grandpa and Grandma for loving the Lord and loving each other so completely. Your marriage is a testimony of how God is full of mercy and grace. It is a testimony of commitment and unyielding prayer of a believing spouse for an unbelieving spouse.

************************************************

I would like to share something my Grandma wrote in "The Journey of a Life-Line", an autobiographical history of her, my grandpa and other ancestors.

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God's Amazing Mercy!

I've entitled the biography of our marriage, "God's Amazing Mercy". In one sense, it might seem to convey a negative aspect to our union, for the work "mercy" always takes into account "sin" and implies something totally undeserved. Which is true in our case as with all others in God's family. But in quite another sense, it is meant to convey the positive and amazing "grace" that the Lord Jesus Christ has shown to both of us through that totally unmerited favor of His bountiful love! Indeed, this should be the testimony of every Christian couple, as they demonstrate to each other and to the observing world about them, what true love and commitment of the wedding vows which He has ordained as a permanent covenant bond for a husband and wife. Doug and I did not take our wedding vows lightly. "For better, for worse; for richer, for poorer; in sickness and in health, until death do we part" were part of the clear understanding and binding covenant that we made to each other, as well as to God. Amazingly, one of us was not yet "born again" into God's Family, and the other was a "carnal" believer, at best. That is NOT a justification for our "disobedience" to God's Word, but required genuine repentance and God's mercy! The permanent glue of commitment, plus love is, for us, the very essence of a long, happy marriage. That word, "mercy", is an extremely important word in our lives. I shall ever be grate for God's Amazing Mercy!

written by- Sue Bradshaw (my grandma)

"The Mercy of the LORD
is from everlasting to everlasting
Upon those who fear Him,

And His Righteousness unto
Children's children,
To such as keep His covenant,

And to those that remember
His Commandments
to do them."

Psalm 103:17, 18

These pictures were taken on their 64th anniversary. Don't they look great?

My 35th Birthday!

2009-07-07T08:45:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful 35th birthday about two weeks ago and wasn't able to post some of the fun pictures that were taken.

This birthday was the never ending birthday!

It all started on my birthday when my kids and hubby woke me up to my favorite yummy coffee from Dutch Bros, a Kicker. If you haven't tried it then I recommend a stop by your nearest Dutch Bros and get yourself one. That is if you like coffee. I seem to be surrounded by friends, and yes, even my husband who doesn't drink the stuff.

Then, after my shower I walked down stairs to the smell of something very yummy. The kids rode their bikes to Wal Mart, with Michael close behind to get all the fixins to make bisquits and gravy. I think anything tastes 10x's better when my kids make it and not me.

The house was decorated from head to toe with streamers, balloons and many signs that the kids made. It warmed my heart and I felt very loved.

I received an assortment of gifts. The girls got me beautiful jewlery that looked Hawaiian, to wear on my trip, and the boys got me food! Yes, I think food is their love language and thus they think it is mine. I got a box full of diet pepsi, a bag of my favorite chips, cool ranch Doritos, and a bag of Dove's dark chocolates.

We had a wonderful day hanging out as a family and then in the evening Michael took me out to a movie that I had been wanting to see and dinner. Mandy babysat the kids. It so nice to have a built in babysitter now! Here is a pic of Michael and I before heading out on our hot date!

I had such a great day, I forgot how upset I was that I was turning 35!

Then, a few days later, my birthday was celebrated with my side of the family at Silver Falls. We spent Monday hiking and looking at the falls and then that night the family from Aumsville visited our cabin site to roast hot dogs and have birthday cake.

Then, on Tuesday we drove down to GP to drop off the kids at Nana's house and we had another party. This one was held at a beautiful, new restaurant called Tap Rock that over looks the Rogue River. We celebrated my birthday, my brother in law, Dave's brithday and my in laws anniversary. We had most of the family there, but were missing Michael's brother and his wife and their daughter. As you can see by the pictures we had a lot of fun!!

Then, it was off to HAWAII!!!!!!!

Vacation's Over- Back to the real world

2009-07-06T14:05:00.000-07:00

We are finally home from our 2 week vacation. 1 night camping, 5 nights in Hawaii and several days in our home town of Grants Pass has left us a little tired, but mostly refreshed.

I have been going through hundreds of pictures trying to narrow the many special pictures down to a few to show you, but this is so hard. I hope to get the pictures on the blog in the next few days in between many loads of laundry, piano lessons, and all the other things that usually take up my day.

It is so hard to get back into the swing of life in the real world and not vacation life. I hardly did a thing for nearly two weeks. Now it is back to cooking, cleaning, chauffeuring, and more. Please give me a week to put my house back together before calling on me. I'll need it!!

Even though Hawaii was heavenly and so wonderful, and the time at the in-laws, swimming at the pool, eating lots of food and drinking yummy strawberry drinks that were seasoned a bit was relaxing and fun- I am so very glad to be home! I love the town that God has settled us in and feel very blessed!!

So here's to...Being Back in the Real World!!!!

Officially On Vacation!!!

2009-06-22T06:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Father's Day! I knew that it would be a busy one with church and traveling over the mountain but I was excited to spend Father's Day with my Dad! Ever since we moved away from them we have not been able to share our special Father's Day / Birthday weekend together.

Unfortunately, I fell sick after church yesterday and was in bed for the rest of the day. This totally changed our plans to start our vacation on Sunday and see my dad on Father's Day. This also kept Michael pretty busy on his special day. He got a lot of time with the kids while I was in bed the WHOLE day.

This morning, I am up early, feeling much better and ready to head out on our vacation. We will be traveling over to Silver Falls this morning and spending the day hiking and taking in the beautiful scenery. Tonight, we will be staying in a cute, little cabin that sleeps four and pitching a tent for the other two kids that we have. We are keeping it simple, by roasting hot dogs on a stick and of course having some s'mores. The goal of this short trip was to spend some good quality time with the kids before we leave for Hawaii. We just want to relax with them away from the business of home and enjoy their company. I am praying that it will be a sweet time and NO sibling fighting!!! That can stress me out more than anything.

My mom and dad will join us this evening to celebrate my birthday and Father's day! I think there will be cake. I hope there will be cake, because I didn't get any on my birthday. Since I am watching the waist line I decided to save the cake for the family celebration in the valley.

Then on Tuesday, we will head south to Grants Pass to drop off the kids at Michael's parents house. That night Michael and I head to Medford to a hotel close to the airport to get some good sleep before flying out very early on Wednesday to HAWAII!!!

We will spend 5 nights in Hawaii, fly into Seattle Monday night, stay the night in Seattle, spend the day in Seattle, before we catch our flight back to Medford. Tuesday night we will be back in G.P to spend a couple nights with family before heading home!!

I am looking forward to taking a vacation from the computer as well. We have chosen to leave the laptop at home and not let work or blog consume us while we are gone. i know that if I had the laptop, I would be tempted to show you all the great pictures that I was taking in Hawaii!! But, you will all have to wait until July.

So, I leave you with this little short piece of one of my favorite songs in the musical "Sound of Music".

So long, farewell, auf Wiedersehen, goodbye

I leave and heave a sigh and say goodbye -- Goodbye!

I'm glad to go, I cannot tell a lie

I flit, I float, I fleetly flee, I fly (to HAWAII)

Goodbye....Goodbye.....Goodbye!!!!

This is where we are headed- The Ko Olina Marriott Resort in Oahu, Hawaii

Still Alive @ 35!!!

2009-06-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

Yes- On this day, June 19th 1974, Kristin Leigh Martin was born!!

I have had a wonderful 35 years and look forward to another great 35, unless Christ comes back before then. Then, of course, I will be in Heaven and that would be PERFECT!!!!

I really want to thank the people that God has put into my life. It might sound a bit like the Academy awards, but hey, this is my day, my moment and I am going to seize it!

Carpe Diem!!

First, I want to thank God for creating me, saving me and loving me. With out Him I would be nothing.

But because of Him-

I am: chosen, holy, and blameless before God. I am loved, accepted, a child of God, a friend of Jesus, the apple of His eye, a new creation, God's workmanship, and a fellow heir with Christ.

I have been: chosen, set free, justified, redeemed and forgiven. I have been sealed with the Holy Spirit, blessed with every spiritual blessing and have been made complete and alive in Christ.

I would like to thank my dad and mom, Dennis and Susan for being the most wonderful parents in the whole world. You have been such loving, giving and supportive parents.!!

You have always been there for me through thick and thin and taught me about the most important thing in life, God. Oh yeah, I also think that you have been a great example to me in your marriage. Thanks for loving each other for almost 40 years.

I also have wonderful in-laws. From day one Nettie and Cliff have been so wonderful to me and have loved me as their daughter. I count it a blessing to have two sets of parents that give me so much love, and support!

Thanks also to my sister Kimmie. I have been so blessed to have a wonderful, loyal, sweet, loving sis who is also my closest friend. When I am having a bad day, I know I can always call and you will be there!! I like to talk when I am having a good day too!!!

I also want to thank the grandparents that God has put into my life. I had a wonderful Great Grandma Skien, who loved me dearly and always took an interest in what I was doing while growing up. She lived to be almost 101 years old. I knew her for almost 20 years!

My Grandpa and Grandma Bradshaw have always lived near me growing up and I know that they are instrumental in how I turned out. They have prayed and prayed for me. They have been married over 60 years and are a tremendous example of how God takes two completely different people and make them one. They have a beautiful testimony that I would love to blog about sometime.

I really want to thank my wonderful, loving husband who has loved me so completely and deeply for over half of my life.

He has seen me at my best and at my worst, and still chooses me and loves me every day. I am more in love with you today than I was 15 years ago. I am so thankful that I get to spend the rest of this life with you, my very best friend! I can't wait to spend 24/7 with you in Hawaii!!

Thanks to my beautiful, lively four children who show much love to me every day. You all make me want to be the best mommy I can be and you make me get on my knees daily to ask God for wisdom in raising you the way He wants me to. I love you all so much!!

I don't want to forget my friends who are always there for me to lean on. You're there when I need a shoulder to cry on, or to have a great big laugh with. You encourage me in the Lord, give me great advise, and have great listening ears. I know my husband thanks God for you too, because sometimes he just doesn't know what to do with all these emotions that I have.

I must say- I have a wonderful support system in my life and I am so thankful for each and every person that God has placed in my life.

I am blessed, so blessed to be 35 and VERY alive!!!

All my love to all,

Emma and Josh's Comic Strip

2009-06-16T08:25:00.001-07:00

A fellow blogger and good friend is challenging parents and kids to stay mind active this summer. She is calling it the "Climbing Mind". Take a look at the Thousand Words Blog to read more about it.

The challenge this week was to create a comic strip. All my children seemed very interested but Emma surprised me by getting it done within a day. She worked a good portion of the day yesterday on it; working on the text and pictures. Last night, she finished her final copy when she was suppose to be asleep! 10:00 pm!! I am sure if I would have known she was up this late I would have put a stop to it, but I didn't and she finished it! First thing this morning she showed me and asked me to post it.

Here is her masterpiece!!

After Josh saw Emma's comic he wanted to do one too. So, Emma and Josh have spent the last hour working together to create Josh's masterpiece. The pictures were drawn by Josh and the words are his, but Emma helped write them. The title is Joshy's own handwriting.

Let me tell you... it has been so nice watching the kids work on this together and not be fighting. I haven't heard the "bored" word once this morning.

Here is Joshua's masterpiece!!!

Rachel Barkely's unique perspective on suffering and God's goodness

2009-06-15T10:17:00.001-07:00

This morning I was reading today's "Revive Our Hearts" by Nancy Leigh Demoss. I am in awe and inspired by what I read and want to pass it on to all who read my blog.

The speaker is a young woman, named Rachel Barley, who went through Breast Cancer at the young age of 32. She has two young kids and has been married for 10 years. Four months ago Rachel was diagnosed with terminal cancer and given anywhere from 6 weeks to a few months to live. Her testimony is very touching and so encouraging.

Yesterday at church our pastor preached out of James on having Joy in the midst of trials. I loved this message and I desire to walk through life's trials with complete JOY. As I read Rachel's testimony I also was encouraged by the Joy that she possesses while walking through the trial of knowing that she was going to die and leave behind two beautiful children and a husband. I can't imagine.

I encourage you to check out her website,"Death is not Dying",and read her story. You will be blessed! Also, read today's "Revive Our Hearts". She has a powerful message that won't leave you with dry eyes but will leave you desiring your Heavenly Father and having a right relationship with Him above all.

You can also listen to Curtis Tucker's messages from the book of James on the Redmond Community Church website. Both last week and yesterday's message are very powerful!

There's Freedom in Loving the Skin I'm In!!

2009-06-09T20:34:00.001-07:00

Oh how busy life gets! I can't believe that I have neglected my blog for one whole week. I think this is a new record for me. Actually, I kind of like it that I have found other ways to spend my time, and being in front of the computer doesn't happen to be one of them. It isn't that I don't have anything to say or lots of fun pictures to post, but I am finding a lot of enjoyment in doing the many other things I have been doing.

I have been keeping busy attending year end events; school is out today and I am sure my life will get even busier as I try and keep four active kids occupied this summer. I have also been getting ready for our vacation to Hawaii. This trip has been planned for almost 2 1/2 years and is coming up faster than I can think! The official count is 14 days. Two weeks to try and lose a few more pounds before I put on that swimsuit that really I should never be seen in.

So... I have been trying hard to lose some weight for this "once in a lifetime" trip. Back when I was young (20) and much better looking, we decided to forgo that honeymoon trip that we didn't have money for and went to the Oregon Coast. I think our honeymoon lasted just a few days there before we were ready to head home and set up house. We always said that we would do that fabulous "honeymoon" trip on our 10th Anniversary. That was a great plan, but our surprise number four child was born. So, the next logical choice would be the big 15. So, here we are getting ready to celebrate 15 wonderful, adventuresome, and even challenging years of marriage, and finally heading to a warm, tropical place.

I find it ironic that people say that a trip like this is more enjoyable after several years of marriage than on the honeymoon. I mean really, there is so much more to think about when you have to get four kids ready for grandma's, 2 animals situated, and loose ends tied up at work. Then once you get there, all those things that you left behind end up occupying your mind. Then, there is the whole issue of getting into a bathing suit. I am telling you, it wouldn't have been an issue 15 years ago, but now...I really would rather wear an ugly orange jumsuit than show off my rather larg, thunder thighs.

So, this whole bathing suit thing-

I have been 30-40 pounds heavier than I would like since my third baby was born. Yes, I choose to still blame all of this so called baby fat on this child!! I have tried more diets than I can possible count and I still remain at this weight. I have maintained this for nine years. Do you think my body feels right at home at this weight? I don't really know. All I know is that I have been working hard since January and am not down to where I envisioned myself being for Hawaii. In fact, I am still far from it. This comic strip depicts just how I feel about this whole weight loss stuff. I have decided to not step on that awful scale. It has a tendancy to rule my life. When it's down, I'm down. When it's up, I'm up!! Do any of you know what I mean?

I must say though, that I feel much healthier and have developed a wonderful exercise routine that has eased much of my pain and given me lots more energy. I am eating a lot more fruits and veggies and over all feel a lot better than I have in many years. Honestly, I have stopped striving for that perfect beach body, because I really don't think that I will ever have it, but rather, I am striving for that healthier lifestyle. I keep telling myself that it is OK to get into that swimsuit in Hawaii, that my husband wants a healthy minded wife who is fully enjoying her time there and not worrying about what others are thinking. Why should I care anyway? I don't know anyone there except my hubby who happens to think I look great just the way I am! I pray daily that God will give me a healthy mindset and give me freedom in this way.

Freedom! I don't fully know yet what that looks like in this area yet, but I know God wants me to experience it. I have spend my life striving to look a certain way. It's hard to be accepting of myself when I know that I use to look so different. I have wonderful friends who have encouraged me to NOT let this area of my life affect my time in Hawaii. This is great advise, and I am taking it because this may be my one and only chance to go somewhere tropical and warm, and by golly, I am going to enjoy every minute soaking up the sun, snorkeling, drinking some Mai Thai's and romancing my wonderful man of 15 years!

Girls (Sisters) Getaway

2009-06-03T09:01:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to hang out with my sister and a couple of her friends from Aumsville. They came over from the valley to relax at Eagle Crest. It was nice that I didn't have to travel far to get away.

My sister, Kimmie, is 16 months younger than me and is a stay at home mommy. She has two little girls 10 1/2 months apart that keep her very busy. They are pure joy, but a couple nights away was so good for her.

We stayed up late talking, went shopping, ate great food, and enjoyed each others presence. I miss having those times with her and think we will try to plan yearly getaways.

Friday, late afternoon, I met up with the girls in Sisters. We shopped until the stores closed and then had a nice dinner on the patio of a nice restaurant in Sisters. After dinner we headed to Eagle Crest to settle in and play a few rounds of Cribbage. I love this game! It was my first time playing and enjoyed learning how to play. I hope I can remember enough to teach Michael how to play. I think he would like this one!

Saturday, we headed into Bend to shop. I did more window shopping than I would like, but hey, I was without the kids and any kind of shopping is great when you are with a bunch of fun girls! We ate lunch at the Pine Tavern and sat on the patio. I had their Fish and chips. Yummy!!!

Then I went to the Beach store downtown to find myself a bathing suit for Hawaii. Let me tell you how nice it was to have Kimmie with me to help me decide on a suit. There is nothing like the help of a sister on such a hard purchase. I found what I was looking for and am very happy with it.

Then, we went to the Bend Goodwill store. Can you believe that we spent four hours there! I found several sarongs for very little money to go with my swim suit and a couple other things that will work well for Hawaii. I enjoyed being in the presence of other women who appreciate Goodwill like I do! Lots of treasure were found there that day!!

That night, we went back to Eagle crest and had Salmon burgers and sweet potato fries. We stayed up late chatting went to bed way too late, but got to sleep in until 9:30 in the morning.

All in all it was a very nice weekend getaway. I really could have used one more night and whole other day to do all the stuff we wanted to do but didn't have time for, but believe me, I will take what I get!!

The highlight though of this getaway was the wonderful time spent with my sweet sister. She is the best sister and best friend in the whole world and gets me more than anyone. Of course, we are as different as night and day, but I absolutely love that I can be completely myself with her; for I think she knows me better than anyone!

Here is a story of two very different sisters that I found in a cardat Sisters.

The Story of Two Very Different Sister

One is here; one lives there. One is a little taller than the other. They have two different colors of hair, two different outlooks on life, two very different views from their windows. Both have different tomorrows ahead, Each is unique in so many ways. Each has her own story, with all the busy things going on in the present. Each has different work to do, and different demands on the day. Each has a separate destination and a distinctly different path to get there.

But....

For all the things that might be different and unique about them... these two sisters will always share so much. They will always be the best of family and friends, entwined together, through all the days of their lives. Their love will always be very special; gentle and joyful when it can be, strong and giving when it needs to be, reminding them, no matter how different their stories turn out...

They share the incredibly precious gift of being "sisers". And when you think of some of the best things this world has to offer, a blessing like that is really...what it's all about.

- Laurel Atherton

A Look into the Future!!

2009-05-27T19:16:00.000-07:00

On our way home from GP we had just two kids. Amanda was in Portland on an OMSI trip and Jeffrey was left in GP to spend Memorial Day weekend with Papa and Nana.

It is amazing how quiet 2 kids are! Emma and Josh were so quiet we hardly knew they were in the car, except for the play by play Josh was giving Emma of the movie "Bolt".

Then....on Monday, we drove to Chemult to pick Jeff and our family was back to normal. What is normal, you ask? Loud and crazy!!! All four were talking at once, the bickering started again, and I had a headache - this BIG. Oh wait, you can't see my outstretched arms. Michael, told the kids a bazillion times to quiet down, and finally told them that there was to be no more talking, period, until we got home. You know the game, "who can be quiet the longest"! It worked for a little while; long enough for me to think a thought of my own.

This is when I had the thought that someday we would miss the noise. I'm not sure if I really believe it, but I guess when Michael and I are well into our old age and the kids are long gone, we will look at one another in the quiet car and wish we had a car load of talking kids again.

So I broke the silence and commanded the kids that they must come home with their families as much as possible. That every Christmas and Thanksgiving I wanted a full house with lots of grand kids running around.

Mandi piped up and told me that it might be hard to come home if she was in South America as a missionary. I replied that, that would be no problem if she married a man with wealthy parents. I doubt we will strike it rich and be able to visit her much.

Then Emma said that she wouldn't move too far from home and she would come over a lot.

It was Jeff's comment that kind of blessed me a little, and worries a bit. He said that he would just live at home and NEVER move out!

OK????? Maybe I should make myself a little more clear and emphasize that I want them to COME AND VISIT. It's sweet that he loves us so much that he wants to stay at home, but we are NOT going to have a "failure to launch" kid. If you know what I mean.

I better start thinking on how I am going to teach this little bird how to fly, because eventually the nest needs to be empty.

I think I am going to enjoy the noise as long as I have it and pray that my son will find a nice, sweet girl who will take care of him so that he doesn't have to live at home the rest of his life.

Papa Celebrates His Semi- Sesquicentennial Birthday!!!

2009-05-25T14:34:00.000-07:00

Friday the 22nd, the family headed down to Grants Pass, our hometown to celebrate Michael's dad's 75th birthday.

It was a short but very sweet 24 hours in G.P. We crammed a lot of fun into the time we were there.

Friday night we enjoyed being with the whole family. We ate lots, laughed, and even cried as Cliff shared his heart and talked about how proud he was of his whole family.

Later that night, we headed down to the Rogue River to watch some spectacular fireworks with the kids. Grants Pass celebrates Memorial Day Weekend in a big way, it's called Boatnik! I grew up attending Boatnik festivities every Memorial Day weekend. It was a lot of fun to take part in some of those events again.

Saturday morning we went to the Boatnik parade and we watched all the locals put on a big show for us. My niece, Kady just made Junior Varsity cheer squad and was walking in the parade with the other Grants Pass High School cheerleaders.

It's hard to believe she is 15! She is growing up so fast. She was just a couple of months old when Michael and I got married.

Later, we went back to Mom and Dad's house to spend a few hours swimming in the pool and relaxing. The kids love it there and wish they lived closer to spend the summer swimming and being spoiled by their Nana and Papa.

We left Jeff down there to have fun at the Boatnik. This is what he has done the last several years as his birthday present from Nana and Papa. He got an armband that will let him go on all the rides he wants. Today he is watching the jet boat races on the river, one of my favorite things to watch when I was his age.

We are getting ready to leave to drive to Chemult to pick him up. I am sure he will have lots to share with us on the drive home.

Happy Birthday Jeff!!

2009-05-20T09:21:00.000-07:00

You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body
and knit me together in my mother’s womb.
Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.

Psalm 139:13-16

Jeffrey is 11!! My little "Bubba" (the nickname we gave Jeff when he was a baby) is growing up way too fast.

Jeffrey Michael Jr. was born on a beautiful spring day in Medford, OR. He surprised us by coming 3 weeks early. Michael was suppose to be on a musical mission trip in the Philippines but I asked him to stay home because of how close he would be cutting it to the due date. He willingly stayed home and it's a good thing because Jeff came early.

I had nothing ready. I guess I was waiting until the last minute to set everything up.
Infact, while we were at the hospital, my sister in law, Nancy, got all the baby stuff set up for our arrival. I can't explain just how grateful I am to have her. She has been there for me in a number of ways and always seems to know just what I need most!

My water broke at 8:00 a.m. while still in bed. We lived thirty minutes from the hospital and were panicking because Mandi came so fast. We had little time to waste. After taking a quick shower and throwing stuff into a bag, we left for the hospital and arrived just before 11:00. My contractions started around noon that day and I had my sweet, beautiful baby boy at 4:31 in the afternoon.

He weighed in at 7 lbs 1 oz and was 18 1/2 inches long. The first thing I noticed was that he had my dimple in his chin, but he looked a lot like Michael when he was a baby.

We were thrilled to have a son! I was especially happy to have a boy. I would see commercials on TV of mothers and their sons, and the fun loving interaction that they had together; I knew I wanted that!

Jeff is that sweet, loving, fun son that I longed for. He has a wonderful, tender heart that wants to serve others. He is very sensitive to the needs of others and will most times put others before himself.

He loves to talk to me and tell me everything about his day! I love his long drawn out stories (sometimes). My famous words to him when we are in a hurry is, "tell me the facts, Jeff". He loves to fill in all the details and I mean every detail.

Jeff is very giving. Every child gets their favorite cereal on their birthday. This morning Jeff woke up to Captain Crunch and he loving shared his box of cereal with the whole family. With six of us, it pretty well polished off the whole box. Sharing the cereal is not required on birthdays but I sure love to see it happen.

Jeff is creative! He likes to draw pictures of animals, cars, and houses. He loves to build things out of wood, Lego's and anything else he can get his hands on. He loves music and plays his guitar every morning before school and after school. He will just walk around the whole house strumming a little ditty on his guitar.

Jeff also loves the outdoors. He is happiest when he is outside roughing it up. He will spend hours exploring with his backpack filled with all the outdoor essentials. Now he will spend many hours outside with his new golf clubs that he got for his birthday. He is really taking to this sport! Thanks to the grandparents, we were able to get him a nice junior set that will hopefully serve him well until he outgrows them.

There is one more thing that I love about Jeff. Of course these are just a few, I could name so many more- Jeff loves reading his Bible. I have a hard time getting him to read much, but I will usually find him reading God's Word. He has a hunger to know more about God and how to live a life that is pleasing to Him. We laugh because he has more Bibles than all of us put together. He collects them! I use to accuse him of stealing them, but found that they were given to him. He loves to have different versions and compare them. He also gives them away to friends that don't have one.

Just the other day he came to me and told me that he wants to obey his daddy and mommy and respect us more. I was a little taken back and asked him why he thought of this. His reply was that he was reading in the Bible where it said children obey your parents and he felt he wasn't doing that real well. My heart just melted. What a joy to see my little baby boy grow up and desire God's Word and want to follow it. Nothing in life could bring me greater joy than to see my children wanting to follow God and start to develop a relationship with Him.

I thank God for this fun loving, talkative, tender, giving, sensitive, creative, adventuresome, God fearing boy.

***************************************

Happy Birthday, Jeff!

Your daddy and mommy love you so much, and you bring great joy to our lives. We pray that you will continue to grow in your relationship with Jesus. That you will know just how much you are loved by your Maker and that you will fall more in in love with him each day. We know that God has great plans for your life. We can't wait to see the young godly man that you will become in the next 11 years. Have a wonderful day!

Much love,

Mommy and Daddy

Spring Concert

2009-05-18T08:42:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago Jeff and Mandi had their spring concert at the Christian school. Mandi is in the junior high choir and Jeff plays the acoustic and electric guitar in the 5th grade band.

This last Friday, Mandi's choir went to Corban College for a competition. Many different christian schools were there, including the one my husband went to and graduated from in '86, New Hope Christian School. Mandi saw some girls she knew from our days in G.P. when she was in preschool and kindergarten. They had so much fun and even got a -1. Hey, I have no idea what that means but it is good. My friend Amanda who has done these type of choir competitions in her youth assured me that any kind of 1 is good. They ended up taking home a trophy!

Here is a clip of the CCS choir! Mandy is the one with the black dress on. Oh wait, they all have black dresses on. Don't they look sharp? I still can't believe how fast she is growing up. I just love watching her sing. She has a smile that is so contagious. She has been told by friends that she smiles too much.

Last night she told me she was going to try and not smile as much! "What?" I said.

"That's crazy, because that smile is from God and it shows the joy you have."

I feel so sad when I hear her worrying about such things, I hope she doesn't pay too much attention to what others say and keeps being that happy, smiley, Mandi!!

Here is Jeff playing in the 5th grade worship band. Over this last year he has really taken to the guitar. He has mostly learned through the experience in the 5th grade band and also from the help of his close friend who takes lessons. We would love Jeff to be able to take lessons but they aren't in the budget right now. So for the time being, he works hard to progress in his learning and playing by seeking the help of those who are willing to take the time with him and by practicing lots!!

We Came, We Saw, We Conquered!!!! Mother's Day- Part 3

2009-05-12T09:57:00.001-07:00

By now you'd think that I don't want to let Mother's Day go. I am definitely extending it as long as I can.

After church on Sunday we wanted to get out in the beautiful outdoors. All agreed that a hike would be a lot of fun. Plus, it got me out of the house and all the cleaning I didn't want to do that day. So we headed a few minutes Northeast from us to a Central Oregon paradise, Smith Rock.

We left the house at 3:00 and got there in just 15 mins. I feel like someplace this beautiful, this close to me should get more of my attention. This was my third hike there in almost four years.

We parked far away in the overflow parking. It was packed out! I remember son #1 commenting on how everyone had the same Mother's Day plan as us. We hiked down a side trail, not the chute, and made our way over the bridge to the hike sign. I had in mind to take a simple, not too treacherous hike by the river since we got a late start, but the children had other thoughts.
The sign read, Money Face 3/4,most difficult. And that is what they unanimously decided. So march on "uphill" we did. We hiked the Misery Ridge trail. I do want to say that my legs faired much better than the last time I did this 2 years ago with Michael. It's nice to know the exercise I have been doing has helped a lot!

We made it up to the top, where the view was "to die for". It wasn't the clearest day, but the mountains were still visible and so very beautiful. We goofed off at the top for longer than I wanted, but that was the point of the day right? To relax, have fun with the kids, and be outside. When it was time to go down, I was adamant about not going down that steep hill that got me up, but down was the only way. Something about going down a hill that steep just doesn't seem right to me.

By now it is 5:00 and the only other way down was to go the long way. I seriously didn't remember it being that steep. It was very slippery with my shoes that didn't have much traction and all the loose rock. I found myself on my rear a couple of times. Josh and Michael had the best hiking shoes and they had little trouble.

Alas, we made it to the bottom and followed the trail by the river back to the start. The start being the uphill hike back up to the parking lot called the "chute". By the time you do that long, Misery Ridge hike, an elevator is really what your looking for. I had a couple kids who sprinted up that and stood watching us from the top with their hands on their hips. Those youngins! I hope they appreciate their pain free joints, healthy heart now for it won't be long before they are feeling the pain in the knee and the pulse of the heart and have to stop and break every few steps.

Mandy wants to do this hike every weekend! She loved every moment. Jeff, he takes his hiking pack filled with all the essentials where ever he goes. He remembered the first aid, which we needed, and the water, which we needed, and the whistle, which we tried to take away from him. Josh, he just the energizer bunny. He keeps on going and going! Emma is a great little hiker who loves to to be first!! Her and Mandy were always racing.

I think if I were to do this again with them I would make sure we all had proper hiking shoes or a nice little hiking stick like many of the other hikers.

I am so thankful for this beautiful creation that God made. It sure does deserve a little more of our attention. Here are the pics to prove that we made it to the top and down again!!!

Mother's Day -Part 2

2009-05-11T20:17:00.001-07:00

Below is a picture of my table full of the most precious, beautiful, handmade cards that my children made me for Mother's Day. I look at my sofa table, with the cards made with love, flowers bought with care and other sweet gifts and feel blessed, oh so blessed to be a Momma. A Momma to four wonderful blessings.

Here I am pictured with each precious child! Do any of them look like me?

Mother's Day 2009- Part 1

2009-05-11T11:04:00.000-07:00

My Mother's Day officially started Saturday night. After Michael and I came home from putting an offer on a house. (I am not jumping for joy yet, because it is on a short sale.)The kids were waiting on the front porch all dressed up to take me out to dinner and the each had a flower in hand.

My oldest son not only bathed himself but bathed his little brother and dressed him in nice dinner attire. The funny thing was that they all matched me!! Did they plan that? I guess the theme was denim!

We went to Johnny Carino's and pigged out on delicious Italian food, I didn't hold back, and enjoyed every bite!! I even had leftovers the next day. The kids were so well behaved and it was a joy eating out with them. We don't go out to eat much so this was a huge treat, and, it wasn't McDonald's or pizza!

More Mother's Day fun coming in part 2.

I would like to thank blogging for helping me make MEMORIES!!

2009-05-11T09:51:00.000-07:00

I am so glad for blogging because now I will be able to document the memories that are made. Whether it is day to day memories, thoughts that go through my head, the little things my kids do or big events like Mother's Day; I now have them documented! Can you give a shout out to blogging?! It has changed my life!!

Michael said just the other day that I am taking more pictures than I have ever taken. I was notorious for missing the moment because I didn't have my camera with me. Back in those days, I relied on my moms to take all the pics. Now the camera is usually with me wherever I go. I love capturing the moment and have enjoyed looking back at this last year. I started blogging a year ago and have captured so many great memories and thoughts.

I am hoping to get this first year put into a book. I have found a few different sites that will take my blog and put it into a memoir book. I have seen inexpensive all the way up to very expensive books. I just want something inexpensive that I can duplicate, one for each of my kids. I think this would be a wonderful gift to give them each year! Here are a couple of the sites that I have found. Blog 2 Print, bookemon, Lulu, Your Blog to a Book

Breakfast in Bed Always Welcomed!!

2009-05-10T08:53:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning, walked downstairs and found Emma crying and carrying on. She was rather upset by the fact that she couldn't make me breakfast in bed because Jeff told her that I was on a diet and wouldn't eat the food she was going to make for me.

At moments like these I get all choked up by the thoughtfulness and love my children show or want to show to me.

I never want any diet to get in the way of my children's desire to do something special for me. Especially if it's breakfast in bed!! I will gladly accept any breakfast given to me in bed and won't turn it away. In fact, I will believe wholeheartedly that it is calorie free because little, sweet, loving hands prepared it for me.

I told Emma that I would love breakfast! And in fact eggs and sausage is exactly what is on my diet!! A smile crept across her face and she happily ran off to make me breakfast.

I found this cartoon this morning. I have been guilty of saying "no you can't make a mess in the kitchen because I just cleaned it the night before". How little ones interpret these sort of things. Just like my diet and breakfast in bed.

I really don't know a mom who would or should turn down breakfast in bed. It happens so rarely we should embrace it whenever it comes our way- even on a diet or if it means there is a huge mess in the kitchen to clean up afterward.

The M.O.M. Awards

2009-05-10T07:59:00.000-07:00

by Nancy Kennedy
"Humor for a Women's Heart"

It's Mother's Day. You down cold coffee and soggy toast, ooh and aah over plaster hand prints, and stifle a smile at the homemade card that reads: "Roses are red, vilits are blue, moms are nice, and I am too. Happy Mudder's day moM."

Next you clean up the coffee spills and help your kids find clean socks. You empty the litter box and start a load of wash.

Now you're in church. You maneuver your kids into their seats, separating the kicker from the kickee and the bulletin grabbers from one another. It's time to recognize mothers of distinction. The pastor asks the oldest mother to stand. She gets a round of applause and a carnation. Next, the newest mother is asked to stand. She would if she could, but she's in the crying room...crying with her newborn. (Her carnation gets stuffed inside her diaper bag.) Finally, the mother with the most children is asked to rise. She gets a standing ovation.

Then there's everyone else, including you. You're not the oldest, newest or mostest. You've done nothing to earn recognition, and you wonder if anyone even knows you exist. For that reason the prestigious Mothers of Merit (M.O.M.) Award were created for all the ordinary moms like you and me.

At this year's M.O.M. Awards ceremony, in the "How Does She Do It?" category, the first Mommy goes to you moms who simultaneously nurse you babies, stir cake batter, talk on the phone, wipe up grape juice with you feet and monitor homework.

Nest is the "Only a Mother Would" category. This Mommy is for all of you who suck the salt off French fries before feeding them to your toddlers and consider a good day one in which you get to brush you hair and your teeth. You who regularly give the meatier pieces of the chicken to your husbands and kids- this Mommy's for you.

The Mommy for the dubious "I'm Turning Into My Mother" category is awarded to all of you who have ever said or done anything just like your mothers. This includes: 1.Saying, "I have a bone to pick with you"; 2. Tsk-tsking and finger wagging (preferable at the same time); or 3. Giving "the look."

The final Mommy in the "Is This All There Is to Life?" category goes to all of you who feel overwhelmed by the mundane tasks that make up your lives, who continually spill out your lives for your young ones, who willingly put your dreams on the shelf to serve your God by tying shoelaces and wiping backsides and runny noses. Along with this Mommy, you will receive strength for your tasks, purpose for you lives, grace to continue and the satisfaction of knowing your service in the Lord is never in vain.

Happy Mudder's Day.

Clean Teeth and Free Pizza!!

2009-05-05T20:20:00.000-07:00

Kids sure do cost a lot!

BUT....

Aren't they worth every penny?

Today all four children went to the dentist. You see, I tried to space them out so that we weren't hit with a huge bill, but yesterday the dentist office called and asked if we could bump the two that were next month up with the two that had an apt. today.

OK, I didn't not really thinking of the financial outcome.

Nearly $700.00 and two cavities later (which were not apart of the bill) I just about cried. No, actually, I about fainted when the receptionist asked how I was going to pay for it.

"I don't know!" was my reply.

I walked away with four clean mouths, two cavities that need to be filled, and thank goodness for all the freebies they gave the kids. They better give out freebies because after that bill there ain't no money left over for toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, fluoride, and all the other stuff that we are told we need to keep those teeth clean.

You better believe that I gave my kids a humongous pep talk about brushing their teeth a dozen times a day and to never touch another piece of candy or drink another pop again until they leave my nest. All eyes were staring at me like I was the teeth Nazi or something. Seriously, I thought that this was a grand opportunity to show the kids just how much life, I mean they costs. I reassured them that it was definitely mom and dad's job to take care of them. But......I meant it when I told them that I WILL NOT PAY FOR ANY MORE CAVITIES AFTER THIS!!! I explained that it was one thing to have such a large bill for teeth cleaning and ex rays and such, but cavities are just a result of being lazy. I think I made myself clear.

I think I got their attention. All four were brushing the heck out of their teeth tonight. They probably brushed twice as long as the required amount.

Oh, I forgot to mention- The office gave each child a coupon for a free mini pizza at Papa's Pizza. They even gave Michael and I one. I guess this was their way to try and soften the blow of the huge bill. You better believe that we piled in the car with their newly clean teeth and drove straight to Papa's to get us some free pizza. The look on the cashiers face when we plopped down our six coupons. Just to make it look like we weren't a total mooch, we bought four child size sodas, yes I said sodas, and a carafe of White Zinfandel.

Michael and I blew off our diet of two days with this yummy pizza dinner. I couldn't just watch the kids eat their very own pizza with their very own choice of toppings knowing that I could have the same thing. Especially since it was FREE! I calculated the cost and we saved a whopping $30 or so with those coupons and only spent $13! Now I can feel better that the bill was more like $670.00.

It was fun to see what each kid chose for their very own toppings. It sure does show the unique personalities that they have.

For example....

Amanda- she chose taco pizza. She has a variety of interests and she likes to spice up her life with new and different things, just like her pizza has a variety of toppings and a splash of hot sauce.

Jeffrey- he chose pepperoni. He is likeable, fairly predictable, and set in his ways. You can predict that this topping will be at every pizza party and that most will like it.

Emma- she chose sausage and pepperoni. My, oh my, this is a harder one, but I will give it a try. She is a combo of sweet and sassy. Just like the taste of this pizza, one bite there is a sweet sausage, pepperoni taste, and the next, the spiciness hits. You never know what taste you'll get.

Joshua- he is strictly a sausage guy. He spices up our life with his ever so funny ways. Just like the sausage spices up the cheese and sauce.

Mine is Broken Top, which has artichokes and sun dried tomatoes, pesto and linguicia. This sounds complicated just like me. Every time we go out for pizza I want something completely different than everyone else. I like a lot of toppings and I like it gourmet. My pizzas usually cost the most. Michael jokes that I was born with a silver spoon in my mouth. I choose to think that I am sophisticated and classy! No boring pepperoni for me. Oops, did I just call my son boring? I didn't mean that!

Now it's time for you to comment on your favorite pizza and how it goes with your personality.

Cheers to all of you who love a good coupon, great pizza and clean teeth!

And,

I will be setting up a fund under the name of "Kuhl-Kids at the Kuhl-Man House" just in case you feel the need to help fund the cost of the cavities we created by letting our kids have soda tonight. (That is a joke if you didn't get it.)

God is at work at the women's conference!

2009-05-01T22:06:00.000-07:00

Real quick, before I hit the sack, I want to say thank you for praying for me and the women's conference that is going on this weekend. I just got back from the first night and wow!!! was it powerful. Nothing could have prepared me for this turn out. Nearly 60 women were there and it was amazing how God just orchestrated everything. He showed up, like I know He does, but the presence of the Lord was felt in a mighty way by the women there.

From the worship, to the speaking, to the fellowship, it just flowed so nicely. Joyfully, we were praising our Heavenly Father for how He uses hard circumstances in our lives for His glory. The theme of this conference is "Joy" and finding join in the midst of trials. I think it is a subject that is well received during a time that many are experiencing loss of jobs, economic instability, and other trials.

Shelli, our church secretary gave a powerful message. I know that God spoke His very words to those women through her.

Kerri, a friend and fellow worship team member spoke so eloquently from her heart on a hard relationship that is ongoing. I never knew she could speak like that.

The worship tonight was wonderful. I know that it wasn't perfect in our eyes, but I know that it was beautiful for God and I heard so many wonderful comments on how people were brought to the throne of God. Thanks to the ladies for giving so much of their time and energy to bring worship to the ladies of RCC. I am amazed at how the songs went so perfectly with the mood and the topic of the night. Isn't God good? (Thanks for being an instrument of Him.). Two more sets to go!

Thanks also to my wonderful husband who has put many hours of practicing in with us and playing the piano. We couldn't have done it without him. He has been so gracious and patient with us chatty, opinionated (at times) women. He is juggling a lot with taking care of the kids and playing our sets. (Thank you dear husband, you are appreciated)
I praise God for bringing my talk together. I spoke from my heart and God really helped give me clarity. I feel peaceful with the outcome.

I am so tired. I got maybe 3 hours of sleep last night. Lots of stuff going on in my head and a cold coming on. I made it through the day and now I am going get a good night sleep for tomorrow.

I have some other thoughts in my head about my message tomorrow. Different thoughts than what I planned to talk on. I feel like God wants me to share something different. This scares me because I am tired and want to sleep instead of plan. I am going to do just that and let resting help me listen to His voice.

Please pray! I am so relaxed right now about it and know that it will all work out for His glory. I just want to get out of the way and let God!

Have a wonderful night and weekend,

The Creative Juices aren't Flowing -EEK!!!!

2009-04-30T17:56:00.000-07:00

I seriously couldn't think of another title than that. Here I am two days before I give a talk to ladies at a Women's Conference on a topic that I am so very passionate about and I can't nail down what I am going to say. I sat at the computer until well, I can't even remember, to get thoughts that have been swirling around my head for the last few weeks to get it on paper. Not much came out. Stress, and total and complete tiredness has taken over. Some would say that I have procrastinated. Maybe so, but it's not like it hasn't been at the for front of my mind for at least a month now. I seriously can't believe April is now over, and the conference is tomorrow.

I have been hit hard this week by the enemy. My house, kids, husband, dad, and yes, even me are falling apart. I feel the fiery darts and I have lost my patience, my mind, my sleep and probably many other things because I have not been functioning with the Holy Spirit's help. I am trying to do it ALL on my own. Thus, I feel frazzled and completely stressed.

I am asking those who come across this blog to pray for me. I talk Friday night on a hard relationship that I have encountered in my life and how God has helped me with it. Honestly, I feel I can not speak on this because of the way this relationship has gone this week. I have not responded in a right way to this person and I have not sought wisdom from God on how to handle the relationship. Don't you think that this disqualifies me? Yep, I would love to get out of it but I have a feeling that God is using this vary week to prepare me for tomorrow.

Then on Saturday, I talk on life's disappointments and how to have joy in the midst of them. This is a topic that I am passionate about and my testimony basically is centered around trials and my journey to letting go and letting God be in control, but this talk is more than my testimony. It is more like teaching and I am finding that it is a bit harder for me.

Thanks for praying. I know God wants me to relinquish control right this minute and let Him guide and direct. I know also that I need to quiet my life tonight and tomorrow so that I can hear what God wants to tell me. It's kind of hard to listen when life is super crazy.

One more think, please pray for my daddy. He had to go in for a second surgery tonight. In fact, he is in surgery right now. The doctor tighten his nerve too tight in his foot and he couldn't feel anything. So now they are fixing this. He has been in great pain and I assume that he will continue in this pain after another surgery. I love him so much and really want to be up there with my mom and dad and sis. I hate being over the mountain with obligations that keep me from being there. My dad understands this and is fine with it, but I am still sad about it.

Gotta run to worship practice-

Have a wonderful evening,

Wonderfully and Uniquely Made

2009-04-29T09:10:00.000-07:00

,
I am talking on hard relationships at the Women's Conference. I have one particular child who can push my buttons more than anyone else in this world. I love this child so much and want to have a beautiful relationship with this child, but many times I lose my cool and react to this child and their ways. I pray daily that God will give me much wisdom in how to parent this child. I would say that I am trying to make peace with this strong- willed child.

As I was trying to put together this testimony I was reminded by God of the uniqueness each of my children process. This is more a reminder for me than something any of my readers will benefit from. So since this blog is records of my memoirs I am going to write everything that comes to mind about my children. This is a great exercise if you regularly see the negative things your children do.

God created them so different and wants us to foster these strengths and help them work on the things that appear to be weaknesses. I noticed that many of the things that annoy me at times are the very thing that can be used to change the world if they allow God to work on these so called weaknesses. Do you understand what I mean? OK, enough rambling, I am going to remind myself of how wonderful and uniquely made each one of my children is.

***************************************
I have four children. Each of them is uniquely different in their personality. I love each one totally and completely the same. If you would have told me 13 1/2 years ago when my oldest was born that I could love 3 more children like I loved my oldest, I probably would have disagreed. Now, I know it's true! Unbelievable huh? I truly love all the strengths and even weaknesses each child brings into my life. They have caused me to get down on my knees and ask for wisdom on how to best mother them and they have brought many blessings into my life, namely four of them!

Child #1 is so artistic and sensitive. She gets along wonderfully with people of all ages and is always eager to please everyone. She has a heart for Jesus and wants to serve her Savior with all her heart. This child has her future already planned out, of course she wants what God wants for her, but she has her sights on Moody Bible Institute to pursue missions.

The other day she hopped into the car after school and proclaimed that God spoke to her as to where she was going to be a missionary. Child #3 announced that God couldn't have spoken to her because she has never heard His. Child #1 just replied back that He speaks in different ways and she knew this was of God. I love her enthusiasm for the Lord. She also has enthusiasm for politics. I can't tell you that she got it from me because I don't have that passion.

When she was 8 she refused to use Heinz ketchup because Kerry, one of the candidates was closely tied to that brand. She didn't want to support Heinz in any way. So we switched brands for awhile. Now that she is a bit older she has tempered that a bit more, but you should have seen her glued to the t.v. during the election this last year. Quite a site! One thing this child is is competitive. Put her on the basketball or volleyball court and she turns into this aggressive, assertive child. I have video to prove it!

Then there is child #2. He is just the most giving child I have ever known. He would give his shirt off his back to someone in need. This is my child who is not attached to money at all. He has about every cent he has earned for birthday or chores still in his account from a year ago. Oh yes, he has plans for it, but regularly offers to give it all up in order to make life easier for his dad and I.

The other day he wanted to use it to take the family to dinner somewhere nice, just because he knew it was something I desired. I have to be so careful as to what I say I want or need because he will be the first to give up his savings to bless me. Of course, I don't accept it. I just tell him how sweet and giving he is.

Now this is the same child who can argue his way out of anything. Maybe better word is to convince us to do or not to do something. I call it talking back, he calls it negotiating. Persistence is one of his traits. I think he would make a great Lawyer!

He is also very creative and so handy. You need it fixed, he can fix it. This is not like his dad. (sorry Michael, if you are reading this!) I laugh when I write this because I usually look to child #2 to help me with handy work. He loves to spend hours upon hours outside in his fort. Adventures keep him happy and out of trouble.

This child is so laid back and passive in many areas and then boom, a very aggressive side will come out. I choose to see this as passion. I have been know to refer to him as my "Jekyll and Hyde" man. He loves consistency and I am trying my best as a mom to give that to him. He doesn't respond well to authoritative people, I think it makes him feel insecure. Of course I have seen lots of improvement in this area this year.He also loves to stay close to home with his family. A total family man he will be to his wife and children someday. Loyal and true is my #2!

Child #3 is the spit fire of the family! Funny, spirited, loud, and a total prankster. The other morning I found that someone switched the cereal in each of the boxes. In the cheerios box was the Life cereal, in the Life box was the Honey Bunches of Oats and so on. Oh, there was no question as to who would do such a thing. I knew all right!!

She is also an encourager. I find sweet notes in the oddest places that will tell her daddy and I how much she loves us. She loves encouragement from us as well. I think this is her #1 love language. This child is also insanely organized and the neatest child I have ever met. "A place for everything and everything in it's place". That is her motto! her room is the room that quests stay in. I can always count on her room to be spic and span. I also can count on her to organize me. The other day I came home to an organized garage and front closet. She doesn't seem to be annoyed by my organized mess but to fix it by doing it herself. She regularly tries to make extra money by asking me if I need something organized. I can't tell you how bad she wants to get into my room and clean it up.

One more thing about this child, she is a thinker just like her daddy. Very analytical. The other night she wanted to know why our belief in God is the true way to believe. She said that there are so many other religions and how do we know that we are right. Wow! She is only 9! I love these challenging talks with her. I know that God is going to use this little one for his purposes and glory. I just pray that Michael and I can guide her through these questions so that when she leaves home she is firmly grounded in her faith and won't waiver.

O.k., # 4 child is a pure joy! Yes, all of my little peeps are, but this one is so easy going. Maybe because he is the Fourth, or maybe because I overlook some of the things that I use to nip in the bud with the others when they were young. I mean, let me be frank here, I tend to have been a little more on the relaxed end with this child. All of this said, he is a very obedient child. His is almost always happy, singing all the time worship songs or making up his own sweet song to Jesus. Ask him if he loves Jesus and he'll say "Oh Yes, I do love Jesus" and then sing a little ditty about his love for him. This child also is very quick to forgive and ask forgiveness. I just love his tender heart, and big, big smile! :)

He is a natural at almost every sport he tries. I think he will be my child who will go far in sports if he desires. He is very affectionate and loves to stay close to mommy. We still have some tough times going into Sunday school because he wants to be in big church with me. Last Sunday we visited my parents church and he refused to go into a new Sunday school class. I don't blame him. So I let him sit with me in big church. He hardly made a peep and sat there so well.

Oh, I thank the Lord for giving me each and every child that I have. I know that my life will be truly blessed because I have had them. I pray that I will be the mother that God desires me to be for them and raise them for His glory.

...just waiting,...just thinking

2009-04-28T13:40:00.000-07:00

I am waiting to hear how my father's surgery and my friend's, mom's surgery went today. It has been a very emotional day for me as I have had my mind and prayers on these people. I can rest in the fact that God is indeed BIGGER than all of this and has His healing hand on them.

I am suppose to be working on my two talks for the Women's Conference this weekend, but am having trouble concentrating. I have to trust that God will bring all of this together in His timing. These subjects are very dear to me. I will be speaking on the very thing these people are going through; life's disappointments.

I grew so much in my relationship with God and those close to me while I was going through my own hardships. I look back and now can thank God for guideing me through them. I know that He never left me to walk it alone and infact carried me. I have to say that I am glad I went through it. Of course, at the time I don't think I could say that, but I experienced Joy in the mist of the pain. This joy is not the kind of feeling of happiness, but a feeling that I am in the care of the Almighty. Knowing that His plans for my life are greater than mine. Now, I only wish for His perfect plan. I love Him more and deeper than I did before. I love my husband and children differently and I love life to the fullest because I have been put here for a period of time to live life for my King. This is not my home, but you better believe I will live every second enjoying the people, places, and time I have here.

I think I am better prepared to go through other trials when they come my way. I feel like I handled my pain these last months better than I handled job losses in the past, or even going through cancer. I am not saying that I was always chipper about it, just ask my husband and children. They would say that there were days that I wasn't very easy to live with. On those days it was harder to find joy in my pain. But, I found that I accepted my plight more. Yes, I searched and sought out doctors who could help me but I was finding strength and peace with God.

My daughter said it best the other day when she said that she was glad that she was experiencing trials with friends because it made her run to God more and rely on Him completely to be her constant. I say Amen to this! This is how I feel but I sure didn't feel this way when I was her age. I wonder if going through many job losses and sicknesses has helped my children learn what joy looks like in the mist of trials at an earlier age. If so, then I thank the Lord even more for allowing us as a family to go through these things. It truly has bonded us together. We are so much closer and content because of it.

Writing this out has been wonderful for me thinking on my talk this weekend. I don't know if anyone ever reads my ramblings but I do know that it is very theraputic for me. Like my hubby say, this blog stuff helps me spiritually, and emotionally. It is definitely an outlet.

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Newsboys - In The Hands Of God
From the album In The Hands Of God

We have raised our hopes and our cities high
We have followed fragile dreams
But only One could take the measure of our goals
And we've stumbled over the trials of life
And we've wrestled the unseen
But only One can calm the storm inside our souls

In the hands of God we will fall
Rest for the restless, and the weary
Hope for the sinner
In the hands of God we stand tall
Hands that are mighty to deliver
Giving us freedom

When our strength gave way to the weight of guilt
'Til we strained for every breath
Only One could lift our shame and make us well
And when all is finished and we face
The fearsome power of death
Only One has overcome the gates of hell

You're amazing
You're amazing, You are
And we praise You, Lord
For what Your hands have done

Please Pray!

2009-04-27T21:24:00.000-07:00

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.
1 John 5:14-15

I have a dear friend who's family has been hit with several hard trials. Her dad just lost his job of 14 years. Her mom was diagnosed with breast cancer just two weeks ago. She will be having surgery tomorrow, a double mastectomy. My friend, herself, lives daily with pain and has some other big changes in her life. This has all hit at once and it is a lot of burdens to bear. Please dear friends pray for my friend and her dear family. They are very dear to us and I know that God is big enough to handle these situations. He loves them so dearly and is holding them in His tender arms. Please pray for unity within the family. Unity that will strengthen their love and bond. Pray that they will have great peace, and that the Great Physician will heal her mother. That the surgeon will be able to remove all the cancer. That the father will find peace and rest in his job situation and that the perfect job will be revealed to him. Please also pray for my friend as she daily lives with pain. Pray that she will be healed of this pain if it is God's will and that she will find strength and peace in the mist of it.

I love how the body of believers can come together and pray for one another even though we may not know them personally. The Lord commands us to love each other this way and to lift the body up in this way. Thank you for listening and caring. Your prayers are greatly appreciated and are heard by our Father in heaven. I know that great and wonderful things will come of these trials. Some of you have had your own trials and know how better to pray for people who are going through hardships. You have been comforted yourselves while going through life's disappointments and now know how to comfort others.

2 Corinthians 1:3-5 says, "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows.

Several years ago I claimed the song "Held" by Natalie Grant when I was going through breast cancer and Michael had just lost his job. Life seemed to be falling apart at the seams. We were weary and brokenhearted. I heard this song and felt instantly that God was reassuring me that he had me safe in his arms that he was holding me through it all.

One more important prayer request- Tomorrow my dad is having surgery on his foot. This is a pretty long surgery that will lay him up for about 4 to 5 months. I wish I could remember the details of what he is having done but can't right now. I just know that this will be an adjustment for him and my mom. I am so glad that they live close to my sister and my grandparents. I know that he will be in good hands with them watching over him and helping him with all the things that he won't be able to do around the house and yard. Pray for dad and that the pain won't be too severe. Pray also for my mom who works as a nurse and will have added responsibilities now that dad can't move around so well. His surgery is at 9:00 am in Portland.

I now dedicate this song to my dear friend and her family. My prayer is that they too will feel God's undying love for them, they will feel his safe and secure arms holding them through all these hardships.

The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
Psalm 34:18

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. Selah There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day. Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts. The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
Psalm 46:1-7

I lift up my eyes to the hills-- where does my help come from? 2 My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. 3 He will not let your foot slip-- he who watches over you will not slumber; 4 indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. 5 The LORD watches over you-- the LORD is your shade at your right hand; 6 the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The LORD will keep you from all harm-- he will watch over your life; 8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
Psalm 121

Soccer Season!!

2009-04-27T07:49:00.001-07:00

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We are mid way through the spring soccer season. This is Joshua's first attempt at playing soccer on a team. He loves it! In order for him to be on a team this year, Michael has to coach the team. There were too many preschoolers and not enough coaches. It has been so much fun for Josh to have his daddy as the coach. Michael is also enjoying his first coaching experience with six cute, preschoolers.

I have had fun watching my husband interact with each of the kids. The first couple of practices the kids were spending more time picking dandelions and doing somersaults on the grass than kicking the ball. The first game was so fun to watch as most of the preschoolers were trying to figure out which direction to go. They have sure improved in just three short weeks. This last game almost all the kids scored a goal and they were getting into the game.

Josh seems to be very aggressive with the ball and wants to dominate it. I am amazed at how fast he has learned the game. The first game he made 7 goals and has continued this the last couple of games. It is hard at this age to get across the importance of team work and not being a "one man show". Of course, as his mommy, I am very proud anytime he makes a goal, even if it is for the other team! Here is Papa giving Joshy a high five! Joshy loved showing off for his grandparents at the first soccer game.
Jeff is playing soccer too. He played in first and second grade but felt it wasn't his sport. This year he showed an interest in playing so we signed him up. Jeff by nature is not a very competitive person. He is quite athletic but doesn't have the competitive spirit. He has picked up the game very quickly and is doing great. Michael had a bit of a pep talk with him before his last game and encouraged him to have lots of fun and get in the action.
This along with his new, snazzy, soccer shoes seemed to give him the drive to play a little harder. He scored his first goal ever! I was a very happy mommy! Not because I need him to score a goal to be proud of him, but because this gave him the boost of confidence that he needed. He was all smiles and played that much harder the second half.

Soccer season has kept us very busy this last month and next, but I just LOVE spending my Saturdays cheering my youngins on, eating the food from the concession stand and soaking up the warm spring sun. Well, the last part is more a dream than a reality. It got real windy at the last game, bitterly cold. I had multiple layers and a down blanket and I was still cold. It kinda made me want to get out in the game and run my hardest to warm up. Ok, that would be a little weird for my big son to see his mommy do that, so I refrained and just grin and barred the chilly weather.

I really like being a Soccer mom and wife!

Lamentations 3:21-24

2009-04-22T09:37:00.000-07:00

This I recall to my mind,
Therefore I have hope.
Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed,
Because His compassions fail not.
They are new every morning,
Great is Your faithfulness.
"The Lord is my portion,"says my soul,
"Therefore I hope in Him!"

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I Arise Today

Through God's strength to pilot me:
God's might to uphold me,
God's wisdom to guide me,
God's eye to look before me,
God's ear to hear me,
God's word to speak for me,
God's hand to guard me,
God's way to lie before me,
God's shield to pretect me.

-Saint Patrick

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God Never Sleeps! I take comfort in knowing this. He is always at work, in the big, huge problems in my life and even in the minute details. There are many times that I am puzzled as to what God is doing. I want to jump ahead of Him and work things out to how I think they should go, but this is not responding out of faith. I can find perfect peace and joy in letting go and letting God handle all of my problems. I can rejoice in what He is doing. By doing this I am worshipping Him, I am obeying Him, and I am having faith in Him.

God is:

My Completeness
My Contentment
My Certainty
My Counsel
My Confidence.

He is my Constant!

Happy 3rd Birthday, Isabella Grace!!

2009-04-19T20:49:00.000-07:00

Today is my sweet nieces 3rd birthday! We share the same day of the month for birth dates, the 19th. It's a pretty great date if you ask me.

Isabella is so precious, so much fun, and very, very clever. She is too smart for her own good and wears her emotions on her sleeve just like my sweet Emma. In fact, they are a lot alike. They both know what they want and will do what it takes to get it. Bella is sweet and sassy and can instantly warm your heart when she flashes you that bright smile of hers.

I have taken delight in watching my girls get very close to Isabella and her 10 1/2 months younger sister, Natalie. Emma especially has become very attached to them. Every time we visit, Emma is eager to stay the night at Aunt Kimmie's and Uncle Jeremy's house so she can sleep in the big bed with Isabella. Last time we were there, my sister told me that Emma and Bella laid in bed until later than they should, reading books and talking. I hope they continue to develop this sweet cousin relationship and be close friends when they are older. They are only 6 years apart.

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Happy Birthday to the cutest little 3 year old. We hope you had a wonderful birthday filled with lots of laughter and surprises. We all love you, Bella.

-Uncle Michael, Aunt Kristin, Mandi, Jeff, Emma, and Josh

Celebrating Easter and Birthdays

2009-04-15T08:14:00.000-07:00

This last Sunday, Easter, we traveled after church to Aumsville to celebrate Easter and my two nieces' birthdays.

We had Easter dinner at my mom and dad's house. My grandparents, sister and brother-in-law, their two girls and Great Uncle John were there. The food was delicious and the company was great! It is so nice to live close to family and be able to take part in these family celebrations.

My grandma brought her yummy, baked beans. These are a family favorite and I think I need the recipe so I can keep the tradition going. She also made a delicious jello. Again, I need this recipe. My sis, Kim, brought the scalloped potatoes and peas. This was a new recipe and it was delich! I have never made homemade scalloped potatoes so I was in awe of her masterpiece. Mom and dad cooked a Costco ham. If you have never tried one they are wonderful. I came the furthest, so I brought rolls and the drink. Thanks to Mary from church, I had yummy Marrionberry juice that she made in her juicer from her own berries. There was a lot left over from what she brought for the worship team so I took the rest to Sunday dinner. It was a hit!

After dinner, my two nieces, Isabella and Natalie had a combined birthday party. Isabella turns 3 this week and Natalie turned 2 last month. They are about 10 1/2 months apart. They opened lots of presents and then we had angel food cake, made by my grandma. This is the same cake that she has made time and again for my birthday. It is one of my favorites, but I love it best with strawberries over it and lots of whipped cream and then strawberry ice cream. Mmmmm...Now I want some. My birthday is coming up in June, I hope I am in Aumsville so I can have some! Or else my hubby will have to learn how to make it! We'll see about that!

On Monday the kids had a day off of school, so we were able to stay the night and enjoy a pretty full day with family. The kids had so much fun hanging out with their cousins. It is times like this that I wish I lived in the same town as them or more conveniently they live here. But hey, two 1/2 hours isn't that bad!

My Favorite Easter song this year!

2009-04-11T00:07:00.000-07:00