The Roses Story

Left alone

2012-02-02T18:33:00.000-08:00

Ahh how time has flown. painting has come to an end and the office is the place of sanctuary my husband dreamed of but never thought would come to be. :)

I should have a before picture ... which was really a picture of a dumping ground of everything that didn't belong in the other rooms. No one wants to see that.... I don't even want to remember it.

This room was made threw the hard work of me. My husbands shelf assembly and all things must be level mantra. Mainly me. I earned the money and bought everything . Painted every paintable surface. ..... ( I hate trim work... :( grrrrr) Bought the couch and painting... yep.

Tears have been cried over this room as arguments over the chaos I threw the rest of the house in and change made everyone nervous and me frustrated. Fumes... I can't tell you the headaches and illness I endured... even with the windows opened.

Yet here it is finished! The stuff that was in the room has been reused, reduced and recycled. TA DA! Amazing what can happen in a month!

I've also had a good friend of mine over and we've tossed lots of broke, unused, clutter stuff out of the house with out much a do. So it has extended to other parts of our lives.

Most of all it has made my hubby happy to have a place to retreat too. A place he can call his own that the kids haven't over taken with their toy and madness. :) For that I'm the most happy <3

keeping it fresh

2012-01-04T14:14:00.000-08:00

I've been painting my office in my home for my spouse. :) neutral white and grey. Yep. Yet I'm excited about this change.

My head is a little light too from the fumes I've been breathing the last two days....

Included in the change is new furniture and shelving that will have the room more organized. This room is tricky ... it has to be, a bedroom, office storage and a craft room.

as I've been painting away, I've been thinking that isn't this the way with most of life. Small changes making a big difference.

Some we are more excited about, some changes we cringe and whine about. Days when life gives us the painter headache from in hailing the fumes. If things stayed the same, how boring.

Yet God has painted so many layers to our lives that we are constantly moving towards Him. If we choose the small change.

Attention Span

2011-12-28T10:26:00.000-08:00

Have you ever noticed when you are listening to someone speak that it is so easy to be distracted when you are bored with the topic?

More then usual, I find my self wanting to learn "new" things. Bored when I sit and listen to the same thing over and over and over again. After a while it is quite annoying. I start feeling as if there is nothing else to learn to grow. So, the impulse to go where one can be taught comes in.

When choosing a teacher or any leader there must be an element of inspiration or curiosity about why or what they are teaching. That by following them, they will guide you to your goal.

They are human leaders, prone to fail. How then do you lift them up? Encourage them when they are stuck in a rut. Excite them again? How do you, the one bored to tears, become the one who motivates? How can you communicate that without offending them??

I guess what is frustrating is in some ways it is true that you can't lead an animal to water. You have to have a Salt lick in order for them to crave water somedays. How can we be Salt? Salt makes things more taste filled. It enhances the flavour of meals. It makes you thirsty. hmmmm.

So in the new year, I desperately want to learn more... New.... Exciting things. I could go to books and the Christian book store and yes I would learn. I could go to different churches and different speakers and I could learn from them. I could go to conferences... if I even knew they were coming up.... and learn from them. I could lead a bible study too.

Some of those things I have already done. I'm also wanting to remain loyal and to grow what God has already put in place. Plus, I'm trying to balance family life without going crazy.

I guess, I will be praying more specifically .

Christmas Blah's

2011-12-15T13:59:00.000-08:00

Welcome to December, the time my Ideals come to wreak havoc on me.

My Perfect Advent month would start Perfectly with Church. For the most part this happens.

Next would be lighting our Advent Candles and having daily family readings that we all gather together for.

Playing of Christmas songs.... this happens. Whether I want it to or not... My son Loves this music. He put the music on for us this year.

Going to the 'Bethlehem Walk" put on by one of the local churches. It really put me in the mood last year.

Going to see the lighted up tree, Decorated Bears, or Ginger bread houses in the local hotels.

Watching christmas favorites on CD Together as a family.

Talking about the wonderment of Jesus.

Lighting up the house with lights, on the darkest part of the Year ( Winter Solstice ) Because Jesus is our Light in the Darkness.

We haven't done all of this.. which bumbs me. Yet I know I'm blessed. Heathy kids. Wonderful Husband. Wonderful parents and inlaws. Food, House, and a great church family.

Yet Here I sit. Being Blah. Wanting Holiness, reverence, and awe to show up and hit me, wake me up from my ughness.

I'm wanting More. Longing for more. and maybe that is what this is about. Wanting to be closer to God.

We are Thankful!

2011-11-10T11:05:00.000-08:00

It's been a very busy fall for us and there have been events that have lifted us up and dragged us down. I have lost a dear friend of mine and an uncle, whom are both in heaven. To say the least it has been tough on me. We've had some health scares that has led me down a path of good health... yet still held a captive hand on me with fear and stress. There has been a defining moment for me where I've finally had some boundaries and expect people around me to treat me better. It has been an uncomfortable but necessary step.

We have finally purchased a vehicle that fits our family. Yaay! We are planning a trip... yaay!

The things that keep us sane and intact are the small things. For one, family. Hugs from my kids whom I adore. Listening ears of friends both new and old. God's guidance and blessings. Thanksgivings...yes you read that right. So far there has been 3, going on 4, thanksgivings. I, for one, have loved taking walks in the beautiful area we live in. The leaves changing color. The musty smell in the air.

The one thing that stands above the others though has been the support and love of my husband. The times where I've questioned my self and asked for advice and he was there. The Hugs and even sympathy when I was crying. The Laughter when I'm being illogical and some of the things I say are well..... Laughable hehe :) The truth is I'm so blessed that God put us together. I'm so very Thankful, because I couldn't have chosen better.

That's not saying I'm chopped liver ( although healthy for you ;) ). If I say so my self, I think I'm a good catch too.

I do think that half of our problems are based on being not thankful, unforgiving, and petty. The other half is harboring resentment, stress and our own self destructive nature. We simply can't take anything for granted.

That being the case, I've learned that being Thankful has been a lesson in self discipline. We are Blessed, through trials, tribulations, hardships, and many more things. I'm thankful that God has taken control of my life, worked all things out for the Good. I'm Thankful. Simply and a purely as I can be.

Happy Thanksgiving and as we go in the Holidays of the light of God, I pray we will all be thankful!

Beauty in Fall

2011-10-12T12:27:00.000-07:00

Fall is my favorite season. It became that way when I moved to a place where the leaves lasted longer then one week. It also became my favorite season when I was done with Schooling, when I could actually go out into it and enjoy what I had never enjoyed before. The picture is of my boy walking home from school with me. I found a new path that Takes us threw a bit of the forest. I LOVE it! This little 5 minute walk is my moment of peace and wonderment as nature changes.

My Cheeky Girl out on a hunt for apples. :) We had so much fun that day. I'm continually reminded how blessed we are to have so much in abundance. The pictures below show some beauty of fall here. Sigh, How I love this season.

Mushrooms really starting to grow after fall rains

Rose Hips through with blooming

Empty wasp nest found amongst the Roses and Blackberry bushes.

Geese flying in their V formation to make their season migration to warmer places

An Apple tree heavy with fruit.

Tall Grass, dried by the sun and seeding in the fall

Banana Slug trying to make it across the path after some refreshing rain brought it out of hiding.

The Lovely wooded path

Fall leaves that have started to fall on the ground.

The Harvest

2011-09-27T15:33:00.000-07:00

This is a part of our Small, ~~no i'm not kidding~~, Garden's Harvest. Not bad considering the postage stamp of a yard we currently have. I can't claim the apples, a friend harvested them for us. Although next year our apple tree could ?? I, instead of being discouraged, am thrilled that my family gets a taste of what a Carrot fresh picked tastes like.

My aim was to defray some cost from the ever pricey grocery store. To take a bite out of them instead of our pocket books. I'm not sure if I did but the benefits is that my 3yr Old is eating more Veg and my Healthy Diet is going strong especially from the extra nutrients found in veggies fresh picked and eaten in under 1 hour!

Freshly eaten tomatoes are sweet... yes sweet! I've been stewing lots of them from just 4 plants. I have at least 4 meals worth and several more to go.

My Carrots are still growing strong. They can grow in fall weather for a bit longer then the tender stuff can. and I finally have a Beet worthy of taking a picture off! yaay!

So Where ever and what ever you are harvesting, many blessings!

Thank you Lord for the blessings. :)

Treating myself good.

2011-09-20T18:44:00.000-07:00

I'm a Mom with many irons in the fire. Almost every evening is filled with Tae Kwon do, Bible study, Worship practice, church, school, shopping, chores.... except Friday and Saturday.

So to start treating my self good, I've been cooking 90% of the meals. It's been hard as I'm already busy and I loved Not having to do the dishes afterwards when you order out. However, I ask my self, do I know what goes into my food to make it tasty in a Restaurant.. No, not really. To be frank, as long as it tastes good ... it was good! :) But the news is so negative about restaurant food. Unknown calories, from butter. Unknown calories from sugar. and msg?? So I'm cooking and surprisingly, My hubby has gotten in on the excitement. He's gotten a ton of vegetarian times for me <3 I love a good cooking magazine.. the pictures.. Oh the LOVELY pictures alone make me drool.

So maybe this isn't as tough as I dreamed it would be. Even a busy lady like me can do this. One of the small steps on the Journey of taking care of my self and family.

Going With the Flow

2011-09-02T10:07:00.000-07:00

Getting back to healthier living has been an interesting challenge for the past month. With my side of the families lists of ailments, if we don't take care of our selves looming ever closer, and some tests that only confirmed I was on their same path, I've have the unique job of taking the whole family on the journey to Health.

It's been a month of me changing our habits, lifestyle and meals.

First sign of resistance was shown last night over the purchasing of Ice-cream. I'm all for, al natural, healthy ingredients. I'm also wanting, low cholesterol for that purchase too. I understand that sugar... or no sugar in ice-cream is a pipe dream if your going for natural. I also understand that portion size has to be ... well small. My husband in a cry for mercy said... 'We have to eat!" Ice-cream is a .. treat. We had dinner of vegetable stew. It was more then enough and was even praised by said husband. So in the end, we got Sherbet. instead of a whopping 30mg of Cholesterol it had 5. The portion size 3/4 of a cup. Not bad.

So how do I go with the Flow of growing healthy kids and trimming the waist line of my self with out effecting them in such a way that there is a revolt? I tell you, there may be many more battles ahead.

I'm taking butter off the butter toast. Peanut butter is better for you! I've always bought whole grain breads so that one isn't that big of a deal. I finally read the " Chocolate Chip bag" Verse the 70% dark chocolate bar... Bye bye chocolate chips .. you have cholesterol and the Dark chocolate bar doesn't. I've changed to Olivina margarine.... No Cholesterol. We've gone to 3 vegetarian meals a week. Instead of sugary treats for snack we are having Fruits and veggies or nuts. ( That includes Mommy)

The kids and I are also going on walks. I've been pulling a wagon with 2, 30lb kids in it. I try to make those walks 2k or more. Being creative by finding walks where there is a play ground for the kids along it. Encouraging my Husband to take an evening walk with me while there is day light.... ' Day light is a burning' is my favorite quote now for those walks. I've been doing Tae Kwon do for 2 years now but that is a class that is once a week, for one hour. From everything I have read exercises should be 30 + minutes 5 days a week or more! Wow, that sounded a lot for me. When I thought it out though, it could be easy. I could do it.

Next is learning to be more relaxed and less stress filled. Because really, why do we add more negativity on to our selves. God is in Control. Go with the Flow. Relax . Breath. I'm trying to figure this one out with tons of demands made upon my attention, including breaking up of fights with kids, setting boundaries with how I allow people to treat me. The list goes on. Demands of the house, home and relationship about sum that one up. Laughing ~ I need to laugh more. :) Enjoy what I have. Be thankful. Learning more and keeping fresh. :)

I'm hoping that this becomes our life style for the rest of our lives. I've read that how long you live is 30% genetics and 70% up to you. So those of you hanging on to the excuse that it's genetics..... 70% is a pretty big number to be left in your hands.

http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/ngm/0511/sights_n_sounds/index.html

Take a look at this and see if this motivates you. We may not all have the genes to reach 100+ years but we have the power to take a certain number of things into our hands. Live life in an energized way and put off diseases that would have taken it's hold way earlier. To day is the Day to begin.

The Last few days of Summer

2011-08-31T08:52:00.000-07:00

So this is what I had for my last day in August Breakfast. Black berry apple pie. It was an experiment... one of many I do just to see if it will work out! Wow and it did.. so yummy. How ever it was also the result of the last few play days we have in the waning light of summer.

These kids are the ones who helped me with the work. They were my black berry pickers. I admit that over half of the berries never made it into the pie. The berries were quickly eaten by said kids, with much celebrations and yummy sounds.

Yet how could you get upset with them when they are so darn cute? They smiled all of the time. For me it was so relaxing just to go with the flow and have fun with them.

Afterwards we walked through the woods to the new school playground. We were checking that it was finished. We've waited with baited breath for over a years to see it's completion.

We then, promptly broke it in! What a happy way to end summer. Oh that and this weekend we are going to the Fair. I can't wait!

I love summer, but my favorite season is fall. So Good bye lovely warm summer days and hello crisp mornings and color filled leaves. The reward of harvests from my garden.

My Handsome Man

2011-08-26T16:07:00.000-07:00

Have I ever told you about the diamond in the rough I have? I've been asked by a few.." Do you really think that He's rare in this world?" YES! yes I do.

I can be my self with him. Uncensored. Uncut. Rated... al Natural. Me. Unlike many e-mails I write and have to go back and rewrite because I've been... well blunt, to the point and well some what harsh... although I have hard time believing that one... but sure. He accepts me as is. My Handsome Man #1.

He holds me when I cry. He works hard with me on our relationship and family. He's sat threw lectures and rantings of a woman trying to get a point a cross to cause change. He has laughed with and at me when I do or say something crazy. He has my Back and front for that matter. He says I'm beautiful. He loves my kids, not a doubt in my mind. He works hard.. period.

He encourages me to Grow... No i'm not the best house keeper but I'm slowly.. painfully learning. He wants the best for Us and Me and our Kids. Even When the kids have me up in arms, he takes them off my hands and lets me breath.

I love him. and He loves me. I am my beloveds and he is mine. We are a team. We are best friends. We are in it for life and beyond if allowed. :) It's not perfect, but it's our life and I couldn't picture my life with out him.

The Way Summer flew

2011-08-08T10:58:00.000-07:00

How can I tell of all the fun that is to be had in a summer moment or in a split second decision

Of the places we treat as ordinary but are truly extrodinary

How small changes have made a big difference. Like having to wear glasses finally but being able to see so much better! I happen to like my 4 eyes.

How I love summer evening walks and the sun light's gentle touch on grass. The love my kids have for each other.

How I love beach days with my kids unafraid of the warm water on their toes at lagoons.

How I love to celebrate with my Family both American and Canadian Holidays

Oh How I love the Laughter of this Boy! There is no doubt it makes me happy, joyful to hear it! How I love him!

I've taken special delight in my Garden too this summer. Gorgeous blossoms and fruit from the vine. I may be a novice but I can appreciate a sweet pea and carrot fresh from the garden! Yum!

I Love how summer affords us the be more relaxed... yes my boy, Jump, play, get dirty and hang out with your friends.

We've had so much fun being us. Being blessed that we have had time together. Even our Daycare child has been grinning more and giggly more! Yes, I will not lie, we've had our bad days. However I think for sure the memories of this summer over shadow that.

Sometimes....

2011-06-29T15:49:00.000-07:00

We've been very busy with the End of School! How I love my son's teachers. It's almost harder for me to say good bye. I say this now but in the very near past I was totally against Aiden going to school. I was going to home school him.

It was the worst month of my life before he went to kindergarten. I made everyone miserable around me. I didn't want to share my boy. I didn't trust strangers with him. He was mine right? I surely didn't want to share him or the delight he is when he is learning. I believed I could do a better job of teaching him. etc.

Petting an anemone

But Sometimes...... God has a better path. My husband put his foot down and off my Sweet boy went to School. I will say I'm a very involved Momma. I love my boy too much to just let him go to school with out my in put and love. I pray over him every time we park in the School parking lot. I talk to him about his day. I talk to his teachers regularly. In the process, I've fallen in love with the school and it's teachers.

I've heard it said that if the wind doesn't blow on a tree, the root system of that tree doesn't go deep and hence will die easily. I've Heard God say,"Trust Me". Aiden's root system will be firmly placed in my living water and he will grow strong!

I still wish somedays that I could have Him all to my self. I think I have a romantic view of home schooling.:) Over all, I think this has been a blessing to my Boy.... to let him go to School. Surprisingly, It has been a blessing to me too as I've embraced the teachers who speak into his life and relay how loving my Guy is. It's nice to know that they see it too. :)

So sometimes.... Most of the times..... all the times....... God has a better plan and really I should Trust and obey. :)

2 Shall become 1

2011-06-13T08:30:00.000-07:00

I will say any day that my Family comes first. My Husbands family as well as my side but first our Core little family comes First. You see it has too. We aren't being selfish. We love to include, join, our families with the extended. To Remain married though, our core family comes first.

I think that this has come as a hard pill to swallow because it seems like betrayal to the family that raised you. It can feel that way for both sides. The first family pushed you into this world and basically put an impressive amount of work into building the foundation of who you are. They sacrificed, spent money, devoted massive amounts of time to your well beings... or at least they should have.

When we got married, it became US. First. ... what...?? Even we didn't know how to make proper boundaries or what they looked like. My husband was constantly discussing things with his family still to make decisions with out talking to me. I was on the phone with my family constantly discussing what I should do with our family. It still gave them importance.

Now with kids, an active life, limited funds, a purchase of a home/car etc. Things are starting to change... for me at least. I feel guilty when really there should be no guilt. Our Core family really should have come first in the first place. Respecting our parents is still for most on our minds. Having Good relationships with them is also. Yet, now we need to make decisions on vacations/ major purchases with both partners in mind. We don't have unlimited money so we need to be careful and wise in what we do.

It seems simple from the outside when we look in but with the emotional strings attached and not wanting to hurt/ disrespect or making the wrong move it seems no one wins. That is unless we do the right thing for us.
Which has me loaded with Guilt

Learning to Let go and be free

2011-06-10T11:19:00.000-07:00

For many years, in my heart I've prayed... Set me Free, let me fly. While all along holding on to ridged expectations of my self, my family and my kids. I've grounded my self and really, although I long to fly and feel the breeze in my hair, I've limited my view plus weighted my self down.

This isn't a' I'm going to opt out of every responsibility' type of thing. It's letting go of the things that don't fit. Saying no. Not feeling guilty when I disagree with someone. Doing what's right for my family and me. Being Real. Going for stress free times. Letting God cut me free of relationship that aren't healthy for me and cause me even more stress. (NOT my marriage.... I love my spouse .. he happens to be the most special person out there!)

I'm going to test my self and let go of some control. It's time for our business to slow down. God doesn't need me exhausted and harried, resentful of the tasks before me. He doesn't need me fearing that someone else is going to ask more of me. I don't need to be the care taker of the Worlds problems, Church problems, or Friends issues. Letting Go. Taking the Paper, ripping it up and letting it fly.

I so relate to magazines with Simple, or Simplicity in them. I'm a desire of the slow things in life. I'm looking forward to more family time. Looking forward when there is nothing to do but sit on my deck, drink lemon aide and listen to my kids giggle. Looking forward to more sharing of my time with my Hubby! Looking forward to being Still. Having fun. Relaxing. Playing. Enjoying. Appreciating. Loving and flying. :)

My Babies

2011-06-09T13:36:00.000-07:00

My oldest is Turning 8 and my youngest is now 3 years of age. Little did I know when they were born how much my life would change. It changed in how busy I am. It changed how self centered I was.. and I didn't even know it! It changed my eating habits. It changed everything!

Routines are now so very important. Not only for establishing sanity but for memory making and security. I love how my boy still hugs me tight at night kisses my cheek and says ... I love you Mommy. I love how my girl asks me to snuggle in to read her books. I love how I can pray over them and bless them every night.

Who knew I would be look forward to nap time so much!? Who knew that I would be so nestalgic taking down cribs, looking at pictures, buying bigger clothes and wishing God would slow down this process so I can wallow in it!

I'm a family person. I love it! I don't want a day to go bye that my kids don't know how much they mean to me.

It means sacrifice. It means Love. It means kindness. It means stress. It means feelings so deep that your babies can fall and your there to soften the blow.

I love my Babies

Thankful

2011-06-07T10:41:00.000-07:00

So here we are back from another wind whirl trip of Family, Work and fun. I'm so thankful for 28 C Weather and the chance to not have to do all the work at home that needs to be done but I procrastinate to do. Oy! If only I would learn right! I'm not complaining though. I really Love my family

It's the Traveling after burn that gets to me. Your a shooting start relaxed and free and then reality has you pulling into the earth for a screeching halt and scratching your head like... really how did that happen. Ahh reality. responsibility. More things to do that I don't like to do but really when they are done make me happy I don't have to do that for a while again. :) It's getting the umph to get up and moooooove!

I miss vacation. LOL! Go figure

Aiden is Baptized!

2011-03-25T10:43:00.000-07:00

Aiden being Baptized

2011-03-02T21:23:00.000-08:00

So My son is being Baptized in the next 2 weeks. Can I say Hallelujah! He's been asking for 3 years. But this Christmas he told me that after watching the Nativity... He told God.. I believe, I Believe, I Believe ... Like the movie the polar express. He cried while Jesus was being born, he had me choked up! What a blessing kids are! I love this boy!

sickness has hit

2011-02-22T16:06:00.001-08:00

We have been dealing with a rash of sickness... Pardon the quietness. Movies are playing. Kids being kept at bay here. I hate family sicknesses.... boooo!

I Had a Dream that flew the coop

2011-01-27T11:49:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4A5Lbg-POg&feature=related

May be a collection of Childrens music I love will calm the dream down.

Hope, Awe, Wonder, Mystery

2011-01-13T15:31:00.000-08:00

Tulips in the middle of January in a Vase. Simple happiness in just seeing them. After all the Cold bugs, flu bugs and what ever else that has hit us at Christmastime, I needed simple hope. It's wonderful to see beauty on such a winter day.

This is a view of my Rose last summer. It still symbolizes all of this.

Cookie time

2010-11-16T14:05:00.000-08:00

I've been staring at a cookie making magazine... staring. Unblinking in anticipation of the calorie filled month of December where everything gets a touch of creative juices. Cookies can't just be .. Oh shortbread... it's shortbread dipped in dark melted chocolate that will melt in your mouth and make you crave more because of that lovely sumptuous decadent obscene amount of butter and sugar and vanilla... Yes Yes I'm wanting them. Oh Joy! I'm starting to smell Christmas cookies in the Air. ..... long deep breath.

Close ~ Run ~ Far ~ Pull Repeat.

2010-11-12T09:24:00.000-08:00

ahh The cycle of an insecure person who is trying to manipulate. Lets say I'm tired.

The Reality

2010-11-04T13:48:00.000-07:00

I can't change people's hearts, Only God can. I just heard that from Shane and Shane. Something echoed in my heart a truth that we know but struggle with.

Dear Lord, The Word Chosen. Blessing Yes.. so excited that we are. What about the rest of Humanity. Are they Chosen? Please Let them be Chosen? Have you Harden their hearts only to let them die? To not allow them to see how wonderful you are, How loving you are? To see your Beauty and majesty. Why did you make them unless they are to cry out your Holiness? To have their tears wiped away by the one who made them? God Come. God help us the lowly to understand. God indwell in us. Surround us and become apart of us. Please, allow them the freedom to come. Don't harden hearts. Make them open to you. We need your presence.

In Jesus Name I ask

so yeah....

What would it be like....?

2010-10-06T13:38:00.000-07:00

So There is a new Drummer.. Young but willing. So there may be a new pianist on the horizon. Kind of feels like a set up from God. Hmmm Am I being retired? If so is that so bad?

What would it look like to just show up for church with no purpose other then to met HIM there? What would it be like to be able to take care of my children with out all the lovely blessings that the church family has provided by taking them off our hands while we serve God? What would it be like to not have to practice...? Would I give up piano? Would I eventually stop singing? Would I want to join a different church in the hopes that God would find a purpose for me there? Maybe?

It's a bit scary to tell the truth. Which has me even more scared because I know God is going to do something. He really doesn't need my permission or my opinion. Yes he cares for me and yet I doubt that what he's going to do is for my good and the good of all his people. Because I know that from the past when God moves he makes me uncomfortable and sometimes hurt from the growth.

It's kind of like coming up to a preacher and saying... Look I've found a fabulous speaker and Guess what!!! He wants to join the church and wants to be in on the preaching. :) Interesting eh?

A Stunner.

2010-09-21T15:11:00.000-07:00

2 Timothy 3:1- 3:7

1 But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. 2
People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud,
abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 without
love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self- control, brutal, not
lovers of the good, 4 treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure
rather than lovers of God– 5 having a form of godliness but denying
its power. Have nothing to do with such people.
6 They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control
over gullible women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by
all kinds of evil desires, 7 always learning but never able to come to
a knowledge of the truth

Wow. What more is there to say? There is so much to glean from this verse. So Stunned by this verse the first time I thought today I would look back and read this again. Still I"m stunned by this. This is our Every day lives in the world.

There are people amongst us that are like this. .... Having a form of Godliness but denying it's POWER! Wow talk about cutting to the heart of the matters.

O.k. I'm still stunned. Probably because I was to read this. So that I would Wake up.

Worship with your Heart.

2010-08-31T20:07:00.000-07:00

Being me and singing as long as I've sang, I've formed opinions . Ut Oh ... here we go again right? Naw. :) Worship. Your Heart communication to God.

Can it be done Quiet? Yep sure can. Can it be done with your life? Yep sure can. Can it be done with sorrow in your heart? As long as your Heart is God's ... yep. Can it be done with Rock, Rapp, Heavy metal,contemporary, Hymnals, Gothic,Jazz, and any other type of music. YES!! He loves NEW songs! Can it be done by dancing? Yep, It's beautiful! Can it be done by sign language. YES! Can it be done by letters? YES! Is it standing in awe of HIM? yes yes yes.

YOUR heart to GOD's.

Worship Leader. It really isn't about me leading you into worship. It's about giving you the opportunity to have your Heart, spirit, and soul lifted up to God. I can't do it for you. Never could. Songs that are at church can give words to your unspoken prayers, thoughts, and life. They are a prayer we Sing, pray together. Amazing really... Really!

There is a blurry line between the difference between prayer, worship,glorifying,praise and I think that is because they are a tapestry woven together. We see the separate strings and want to lable them separate and yet they are not.

so what's the point? The point is Worship is Your Heart to God's. Seek Him. Sing to Him. Be silent with Him. Worship him. Your Heart to God's.

I Pray for Wonder and Awe

2010-08-27T10:30:00.000-07:00

So I sit here in my Jammies in my living room thinking ... is it to early to pray for snow?

Fall is fast approaching and it's one of my favorite seasons on this island. It feels Warm and intimate and like a family oriented season. Blackberry picking harolds the beginning of this season. A long with Cooler weather and the start of winter rains. The smell here changes to that school smell.... there is one is there not!? The tree's change color and give up fruit. Apples, Pears, Plumbs are just a few of the bounty. Not to mention my all time favorite. ..... The PUMPKIN PATCH! Those globes of orange that have been hiding under green leaves seem to change color over night and ... me and my kids get excited!!

I suppose that the coming of fall and winter beckon us to slow down because in ages past that is what happened. No longer the field needs to be plowed. The Last of the summer days were a flurry of activity to harvest and preserve what needed to be preserved. To fill the store houses. In the end that left little to do in the winter. Hence you slow down. I think our minds and Bodies want this slower pace and that is why we do more family activities and have more down home cooking.

I also have been thinking of the Wonder of my family. My kids and my husband and I were meant to be here and touch the people we touch. The awe of new life and achievements.

I'm Thankful. I'm filled with wonder. Seasonally and family wise.

When it Rains sometimes it Pours

2010-08-09T10:19:00.000-07:00

So I'm beginning to believe that there is more then one person in our church plant suffering from burn out. 5 years of work and little play. 5 years on not being diligent about feeding on God's word. A woman came to me to tell me the exact same thing I've told others around me. She wasn't willing to listen and she probably was unable. See burnout/depression is a focus that is turned internal. This can be very unintentional and caused by not having proper rest, exercise, and having negative thoughts are the by product of it. It is caused by dissatisfaction, disillusionment, resentment, un-forgiveness, and fear.

It can be also a pointing of fingers. Not taking the proper responsibility for one's actions or lack of actions. This is a very important step.... one has to point the fingers back at one's self in order to climb out of the pit and to be able to stop looking at one self and start looking up at God's hand reaching down to lift you high.

What I find interesting is that we can condition our bodies so much by our feelings that we can alter our actual brain chemistry! Isn't that AMAZING and scary! Cortisone is a fight or flight chemical in our body and is a contributor to depression. Seritoenine .... another brain chemical is the happy chemical that we have as a natural high of sorts. When Cortisone out weighs all others....... we are depressed. Stress, fear, sadness, resentment, hopelessness, lack of vision and feeling out of control... all bring the Cortisone levels up... hmm.

Depression wears different faces... I'm and angry depressed person. There are quiet withdrawal persons. There are crying persons. And the list goes on. Non of these are nice.

In the psalms there is a well quoted part that says: The theft come to steal and destroy but I (Jesus) have come so that they might have life ... and life more abundantly!

So Time to take care of our own and building up of the people that are struggling in our church. Time to pull along side of these people and just listen and be there. When the core of the church is failing and the house is slowly dividing, destruction is near. Maybe it's time to pull us down to 2 or 3 ministries that we do really well and feeds the hearts of the church people.

I do feel the need for a womans retreat for a weekend. A Mens retreat. The need to get down to brass tacts. Jesus. Vision. Healing. Restoration. Inspiration. Jesus. No our little church probably can't put one on .. however we can attend one put on by another church. Or maybe we can hold one but each pay for our selves.? Capenray any one?

Quotes

2010-07-30T09:56:00.000-07:00

So I'm a big fan of Quotes. It's probably why I love proverbs so much.   Lots and lots of quotes on how to live a Godly life.

So I found a quote that I can totally relate too. " I find politeness is some times and excuse for dishonesty"

Since coming to Canada I've been told to temper my temperament down.   I've been polite and kept my mouth shut. I've tried not to say the wrong thing.   I suppose it's my need to fit in. Have friends and such.

I use to be honest to a fault. Now I find my self bending. What a Sad situation eh?

Between living and Nothingness

2010-07-23T13:56:00.000-07:00

My last blog was done before a Vacation. I think I'm defiantly looking for God. I need to see him in the Day to day workings.

I've been so busy that I've lost my vision and my focus. It's amazing how family and a child in school and activities and church can do that to you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vfI_fen2nMY

This is the theme for me for the past 2 years. This has been my prayer.

As a wife, I feel a bit powerless about certain things. I've been drained. Attacked. Irritated.

It's time for a change

Where I come from and where I'm going.

2010-06-28T13:14:00.000-07:00

~ So, Just to jump right into it all, the pastor of our little church has asked me to present my testimony.   Yeah me.... I don't think I've ever truly written it down or even thought it out properly. Mainly because I have always felt it was un-extrodinary.     So I will attempt at it now. Feel free to comment on the content. Not grammar mistakes, mainly because I will make lots. I"m not .. nor will I ever claim to be an English major.

I come from Small town, Small State U.S.A.    Wyoming.   The Wild West, or shall I say Midwest.   My family is on the Large side. There were 7 people who lived in a Trailer that only had 3 rooms. My Mom was baptist and my Dad would claim to be Morman. Neither of them were or are practicing though. They allowed us to go church ... any church..... as long as it was a well established church and there weren't any weird behaviors.   That, of course, lead to some conflicts in the future. My beginning years were spent in Buffalo, then Lynch, then Hanna Wyoming. In Buffalo I went to church to accompany a good friend of mine. In Lynch I went to church because it was something to do in a town less then 200 people and in Hanna I finally went to church because I choose too.

I've been to evangelical, 7th Day Adventists, Catholic, Morman, 4 square, and Baptist church. If asked, I will say I've gone where God has lead me.

At 17, in a little church in Hanna, a small town minister who was appointed to the Baptist church and his kids made the difference.   The seeds were really planted all along.   I was accepted, allowed to sing, become apart of a ministry with no questions asked.    They all believed I was already a follower of THEE WAY.   I was not.   Teen years are hard, trying to fit in and for girls the internal politics are fierce.   I mainly tried to stay out of it because I knew I wouldn't ever really belong. I was raised with very moralistic parents, and I typically followed the rules and I was quiet,because of that I was deemed different. I was accused of being Gay. I had a Girl randomly cut my hair.   I was punished and accused of stealing.   The Teachers weren't any better. I Lost a friend whom I've only now become acquainted again with.

I basically heard music out side of the church, asked about it, got an answer and joined " Count the Cost". At one of the out reach churches at an alter call and after waring it out with God, I came down and made the official decision to follow Christ. Finally I belonged to a group of people.   I had a group of friends I could sit at a table with at lunch and not have to watch my back.

College was a process of growing up and letting go of my co-dependence on my parents. I don't think I would have ever moved out.   My Mom already had a plan in motion and off to college I went in a town over 2 1/2 hours away. I grew in faith because I suddenly had no one but God. No friends of mine went to Casper College that first half of the year. I spent 6 months crying my eyes out and going to classes.

The journey on this narrow path has been a journey of God snatching me back from me destroying my life. At 21, Christian still, I finally dated and lets say that all my choices weren't stellar except one! 2 boys weren't christian and 2 were... and of course the Last one of the 4 was and still is the Best.   The first 3 were very 'SEX" focused. I, being naive, thought I could resist temptation.   That was sadly untrue and the loneliness I felt lead to unwise decisions and actions.   After the 3rd boy friend I had decided to become a Nun when I turned 30yrs of age.

My Last year in College I met Scott, my Husband, over a Tel-net Chat called Subway. I didn't want a boyfriend. He said I had a nice smile. I said Thank you and thought nothing of it. Yet, this friendship/ relation ship still developed into something more. I came on spring break with my only 200 bucks, 180 I spent on bus fair and the other on groceries and I had to break down and ask Scott for ferry money for the way back. On my Journey to Canada, I helped break a relationship not wanting too. In the process, I learned of what it took to say sorry. I learned that there are diamonds in the rough... that a Boy too can wait for the right one.   That a true friend can come from unlikely places, like the ex-girl friend of your husband.

As, I continued in my Education in Christ I learned that Christian boys are still boys with hormones. That being alone is truly painful when one is willing to deal with it.   Balancing a social life and School is hard when all you want is to still play. That a person with out a dream/vision does waste away and perish. I learned that no matter the label that people put on a certain church, there are people of True faith in the ONE GOD every where.    That where God is ... that is where I too wanted and needed to be.   That God takes care of his own even when they are hungry, poor, and desperate for true love. Prayer does get answered.

My life as a Mom, has given me glimpses of what God feels for his kids. YES! you would lay your life down for them.   Yes, some days you wonder what you did even if you know that it will turn out fine. He has shown me through Aiden's heart surgery, that our lives truly do rest in his hand. Every single moment of every life is a gift.   It made me wanna drink up every second.   With Ella, that no... I still don't know everything and I've gotta lot of learning to do.   She has energy that pours from her. Can we say Girl Attitude?? YES she has it. She is sassy and sweet and lovely. I struggle with raising kids to know God, not just because of my faith but because they choose to know who God is. I struggle with House keeping, there simply isn't enough time in the day. I struggle with busy schedules. I struggle with my own selfish self.

As a Worship leader, I feel wholly inadequate. I've struggled with prayer time. God time. more then I've ever done in my walk with HIM. I bounce from School schedules to Home activities with young ones, to Church activities to worship activities to exercise activities and it's been stressful because everyone seems to believe since I stay home that I have tons of time on my hands. I've contemplated quitting and walking away from the responsibilities. I've wrestled with my husband and God with this.    Yet, I remain not because of me. Not because I have any glorified visions of my self. I remain because God called me.   I remain because I was called to serve with or without rewards. Comfortable or Not.

Yet when I'm uncomfortable it's usually because I'm growing and the growing pains hurt a bit. I am trusting God is doing a good work in me. He is changing me from the inside out.

Sometimes, the most uncomfortable thing you never in your life want to do, is exactly what God is calling you to do. Take Risks.   Talk. Pray. Make relationships. Open your Life up. Travel. Give. Receive. Forgive. Be vulnerable. To stand up. Raise your hands. or Give up and lay it down as God's feet. To finally deep down Trust. and most of all Love.

I'm normal and extraordinary and bluntly honest and happy and grumpy and boy do I get tired.    I have questions and answers and problems.    I'm a small town girl in big City.

I wouldn't change anything because I'm God's art. I'm going were God leads me. I'm trusting in Him. I'm loving Him.

The Journey

2010-06-26T14:11:00.000-07:00

When I first started this blog, it was really for my family and possible a homeschooling blog.   So far. it's the family. and mainly my husband reads it.

so maybe I should start writing to him?

Dear spouse, Love of my life, and encourager oh and reminder that I have chores to do.

This year has been a challenge so far. Mainly a personal one as I deal with the doubts and frustrations and tiredness of being me.   Mom, Taxi service, milk production, dicipline, faith, chores and a good dose of guilt dominate me on a daily basis.

I guess, that is what it means to be a mom. The one that gets me the most blue, sad, grumpy and frustrated is Faith.   If I quit being the worship leader will God continue to be in my life.   I have to say that I'm lacking in spiritual leadership for my kids.   I'm exhausted and looking for a different leader. The "Santus Real" Bands Song   Lead me with Strong hands, Stand up when I can't..... etc really hits a chord with me.   In side I'm saying those words to God and to my loving husband.

Over all though, the kids are doing well. Aiden is a delightful boy that is growing so fast. I just wanna capture all those sweet moments before they are quickly gone.   Ella, is becomming a little person everyday. No longer a baby but more of a child with independance and attitude taboot!

The Church is growing.

Heather is moving to a home she owns! yaay.

The sunshine is shining. finally! it's summer. can't tell you have relieved I am.

I'm in such a need of just relaxing me time. I hope our summer trip will do all of us good.

Scott, you are doing really well. Work has been honoring you. You've been spoiled by your family. You are our stabilizer. Thanks for all you do. We really do appreciate it!

My Garden is doing really well. This year I actually have time for it! yaay!

Family

2010-05-20T12:13:00.000-07:00

so after 2 years of begging from me, we finally take our family picture. :) Do you realize how hard it is to get an almost 2 year old to stare at a blinking light and smile??   If not, it's one of those things that should be a requirement of families hehe. :)

My family means so much to me. Scott the Calm. Aiden the Lovebug. Ella the energy. and Me the routine enforcer and keeper of the home.    It's the first glimpse of God's love for me.   In a healthy family with it's up's and downs it can show forgiveness, Love, joy, perseverance, patience, kindness, gentleness, safety and so much more.    We are by NO means perfect but I believe we are, what we need for each other.   It's a place we learn UNCONDITIONAL love.   That means, no matter what will happens, I love you and will stick with you.      This is a hard road to handle, yet As For Me and My house... We will choose the Lord.

My kids do what normal kids do when they finally get to see their daddy when he comes home from work. They've waited all day to hear the door shut, hear his voice, see his face and finally to run with all they are worth grinning and yelling his name "DADDY!"   I can see the Love and Joy shining, not just from my kids face but from their father's! I can't wait to do that to My Father in Heaven!

What a Blessing to have my family.

What does family mean to you?

A thought from the Heart

2010-03-23T12:50:00.000-07:00

In the past 3 years almost 4 we have been an active part of Westshore community church. I, in particular, have been Leading and organizing worship for the church for 2 of those years.   This is a ministry I really shied away from as I remember that those with given much will be required much. The responsibility still has me staggering some days and asking questions of why me? How did I get into this position? Am I even worthy of this?

So some comments that have been coming back to me via my Loving spouse are that 1. The worship music is too loud. 2. People feel like they are being sung at. 3. Lots of new songs.

To give some context, we are in a building built over 120 years almost. It has no insulation in it's roof. It's a Traditional Church with Bell! It has no sound damping built in.    We are an experienced worship Band. We are small but we've been playing/singing/drumming for over 10 years and some of us over 15.    We play with confidence.    I am a NEW worship leader, I've never had any formal training to that end other then being on a worship team since my Teen years. I'm going to make mistakes and flubs and... yep some times the music is a bit jumbled when I have a week I don't know how to make it work.

To address the first problem of the music being loud I would have to say that it depends on what side or what section of the pews you sit on. That and the instruments are in a sound system. Maybe the worship team is becoming deaf? hehe.    It can be loud. Our sound man is working on that while still enabling us to hear ourselves as the speakers are all pointed out to the congregation.

To address the second problem of being worshiped at. I must say this really got my goat. If you don't sing then you aren't apart of the worship and yep your choosing to have us sing at you. I can do more talking and inviting. But worshiping comes down to the fundamentals of your heart to Gods.   It's an action and not the responsibility of the team to make you worship.   Your ministry is to worship as a congregation.

To address the third problem of lots of new songs, I've been aware of my need for new. I can justify it by saying that God wants us to sing a new song but I can also see the point that it's new if you don't have these songs in your every day life.   So My new vs Your new is too much.   It may feel as if there are new songs every week to you but to me it feels like we've done all these songs hundreds of times.   I am working on it. Working on slowing it down some. But be prepared, there will still be new song, but maybe I'll let you get use to them a bit more. :)

O.k. now that is said my opinion aired to thin air perhaps but aired non the less. May God continue to hear His peoples worship. TTFN

Oh the business of life

2010-03-18T20:41:00.000-07:00

I'm Late! I'm Late! for a very important Date... no time to say hello goodbye I'm late I'm late I'm late! ( Alice in Wonderland)

So It was a very busy day. I'm busy with morning take off to my sons school. I'm busy shopping for potties and geroceries... yess alll at the same time. Yay me! I'm busy putting precious down for a nap. I'm busy putting geroceries away. I'm busy getting worship done. and Practiced. I'm busy picking up Aiden, Taekwon do. and back home for a fast dinner.. yep its breakfast for dinner. Then Husband tells me at the last minute he has another meeting with the church. I do all night time routines by my self.. Son showered. Daughter in Bed asleep.. Next Son in Bed. then.. Me in Bed. :P

There is no time for me time/husbandtime/craft time or anything remotely too enjoyable .. besides this little blog. sigh.

Better be off so I can begin a new day tomorrow! Ahh the Joys. No time for grammar mistakes.. just spelling. I hope tomorrow is much slower. TTFN

So What's different about me?

2010-03-01T12:13:00.000-08:00

1. When scrapping the bottom of the barrel and feeling Blue ~ I still have hope. I know there is light after the dark moments of life.
2. When I feel friends of this world have excommunicated me or misunderstood me or are two faced ~ I still am happy with who I am because My self worth isn't based on the World's understanding but on the fact that "I am fearfully and wonderfully Made by My my creator." God.
3. When Troubles come, as they usually do I know it's not the End ~ I know God uses change to make things better. Change can hurt. Confrontations can be scary.   With God though, All things are possible.
4. When Bad things happen to me, I know my attitude has a lot to do with how the situation ends up. Dwelling on "poor Me." only ends up in resentment. Dwelling on "others and the good" can end up in blessing abundant.

So what is different. Hope. Faith. Love in Jesus.   Hope for better. Faith that it will happen. and Love as God understand love. Choosing love. Not falling... that doesn't make sense any ways. Hormones :P so far they've only got me into trouble.

I'm frustrated by the doom and gloom of a person. Frustrated by an unwillingness to work threw problems that come and go. I'm Frustrated by a persons willingness to sit and wallow in ugliness and blame others on their own short failings.   Truly, I pray for deeper friendships then that.

A true friend is hard to find. Once you have one hold on threw thick and thin. Rain, snow, squalle and wind, thirst, pain. Work work work. Nothing ever worth having comes easy.   Forgive and understand.

That's what is different.

1st Corinthians
Chapter 13

13:1 If I speak with the languages of men and of angels, but don't have love, I have become sounding brass, or a clanging cymbal.

13:2 If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but don't have love, I am nothing.

13:3 If I dole out all my goods to feed the poor, and if I give my body to be burned, but don't have love, it profits me nothing.

13:4 Love is patient and is kind; love doesn't envy. Love doesn't brag, is not proud,

13:5 doesn't behave itself inappropriately, doesn't seek its own way, is not provoked, takes no account of evil;

13:6 doesn't rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth;

13:7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

13:8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will be done away with. Where there are various languages, they will cease. Where there is knowledge, it will be done away with.

13:9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part;

13:10 but when that which is complete has come, then that which is partial will be done away with.

13:11 When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I felt as a child, I thought as a child. Now that I have become a man, I have put away childish things.

13:12 For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I will know fully, even as I was also fully known.

13:13 But now faith, hope, and love remain--these three. The greatest of these is love.

Our deepest Fear

2010-02-15T14:40:00.000-08:00

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
Marianne Williamson

This quote was given to me by the Girlscouts of America .. before it wasn't allowed. ( Kind of sad eh?) I love this quote.

Grandma Suzy and Poppa Willie

2010-02-15T13:37:00.000-08:00

The Grandparents came to town and took us by storm for 12 days of laughter, shopping, and adventure. I"m partitcularly fond of them as they are my parents. My mom is an adorer of her grand-babies. Aiden knows this and eats up every moment of adoration. Poppa Willie is also very attached to my kids. He growls and plays with them and laughs at their antics.

Ella every morning yelled at the top of her voice "Boppa!" and "Amma"! Much to the delight of my parents. Aiden rushed in to their bedroom and snuggled with them. I'm so blessed to have such warm and welcoming parents who embrace my kids with no stiffness or uncomfortableness. They don't see them as burdens, or lots of work. They don't make a big deal out of getting over worked by them or tired. They don't point out how they will probably need to sleep a whole week to re-coop from being with them. They don't pull the ' We are getting Old' card. They aren't thankful for silence after my Kids are gone. They actually miss them.

My Kids are Wanted by Boppa and Amma! A Blessing and a Joyful work from God. They are Works of Art. Amazingly made. I'm so Thankful that my parents Treat them as such!

Now that they are gone. I"m sad. Sad, for the lack of extra hugs and giggles. Sad, because they kept me company during the day. Sad, because I love them and really wish we all could be closer. Sad cuz now I'm feeling lonely.

Fair well to Poppa

2010-02-05T18:58:00.000-08:00

This is my Husband's Poppa and Great Grandfather to my two beautiful kids. He was a World War II Vet.

This is in remembrance of a loved Grandfather who has left this world and in our own way we celebrate and Say good by to this Honorable man.

Who's that Girl?

2010-01-25T12:08:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow Our Baby Girl turns 19 Months! Time has flown with the birds. :)

Ella is Sweet and Sassy. A list of favorite words from her are 1. Dadda 2. Momma 3. No 4. Black Berry ( for Daddies phone sounds more like blakber) 5. More 6 Bra Bra ( for Brother) 6. nilk ( Milk) 7 Booc Booc ( Book ) 8. Bye Bye 9. Hi ( especiially when talking on the phone to Grandparents!) 10. Apple 11. Reee Yeow ( Rio our Cat)

Some words she can say but doesn't use fequently are poop, pee pee, up, owee, bump bump, Jump, oooran ( Orange) , Wa wa ( Water) , NumNum ( wants to eat), oof oof ( Doggy), Dow ( Down) , Eyes, Nos (Nose), Toe, Mow ( Mouth), Baa ( Bath) , Moo ( Cow), chak chak ( Chocolate), Book... Adda ( Aiden ).

Since she is picking up SO many words it's a bit hard to keep up. These are the ones that we recognizes for the most part. :)

She is getting her own personality. No more the maliable little girl... ( not that she ever was)... She is Loveable when she wants to be. She is defiant and has already gotten her self into time out... :P What can I say... she's already trying to hit her brother to get her way.. so I think it was Time. She Sings and Dances!

Favorite songs ~ Wheels on the Bus and Head and shoulders Knees and toes.

She is Daddies Girl but Makes sure Momma is still around to keep things normal. She adores Aiden but hates to be smothered... LOL. We are learning to give her a bit of space.

She moves all the time... except when she is sleeping. Love the park to play. Clings to Momma if she is insecure in her surroundings. She LOVES chocolate... she is a girl. :) It's baby mania here.

I'm amazed at how different a Boy and a Girl can be! I've only had brothers so this is a learning experiance. Somethings I'm loving .. something take some getting use too. :)

Like Hot pink and Red shoes she can't leave the store without! I blame her Grandma Suzy and her Girly Genetics on these pair of shoes. Grandma Suzy LOVES Red shoes. Hehe.

We are all enjoying her. Getting use to toddler demands and Loving it too! TTFN

How to Help Haiti

2010-01-15T12:14:00.000-08:00

With the earthquake that hit Haiti there come a deep concern over life and what to do to help these struggling people with survival and grief.   I am posting a link ~World Vision's Help for Haiti .   If you feel called to donate please click on this link and you can Help in that way.

If you can not give monetarily wise then off up prayers the Lord for these people. We never know the day or time when we will too be called home, to heroism, to leadership or to help out.

I've posted on Heathers Heart Blog of my thoughts concerning Haiti.   This Blog is also about Heather and My journey to Better health, Spiritual growth, and Trust in Jesus Christ our God and savior.

May the Mercy of God Be with Haiti and may he Bless them mightly.

Happy New Years

2010-01-06T14:02:00.000-08:00

Now the Year is 2010, Yes... I'm still getting use to not using double zero's in the middle of the date. Amazing how small things can trip a person up.

I hope the New Year finds Blessings abundant for friends and Family! As for me I've started a Challenge. My Friend Heather is allergic to Wheat, Corn and Dairy... She has been ... well lets say not on her best behavior when it comes to these foods at Christmas time. Her Body is telling her she has been a naughty girl... So to show my support of her going back to a Healthy Lifestyle for her self I'm Giving up All White sugar or Products where the second Ingrediant is SUGAR!

I'm a Sugar Ahholic at best. I love Chocolate with extra sugar please.. whip cream yes. Syrup in my Coffee yessssss please! 1 lump or 3... 3 please!!!!! Pastries! yes yes yes. I could go on. and On and On about the sugar offenses I love love love. O.K. I degress. Now that it's out of my system.....

I'm going to devote my self to Bloging about how this goes... this Challenge! I'm still Nursing my Little one. So I couldn't go totally sugar free. I am still eating fruits... but not Fruit Juice. I'm still Having Whole Grain Breads. I will see if a teaspoon of Honey is permited a Day. ... probably not.. but hey It's worth a shot right?

Also I've taken up a Tae Kwon Do Class once a week. I'm also parking Down Hill from my childs School so I can walk UP and get some exercise... small steps for Me right... but just maybe it will be thing I need to stop the January blues and weight gain. :) Who knows may be I will Lose weight?

Well until the next blog! Happy New Years!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-09T13:33:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from the Roses

This last month has flown by and Now we are already into December! We have spent the last month and a half getting rid of sickness in this house. Aiden is still Ill.... coughing. But on the mend finally!

We are now franticly putting christmas cards together and mailing them. Buying presents. Being active in Aiden's School activities. Our Tree is up and trimned our stockings are hung by the chiminey. We are going to be putting up lights and baking cookies. We are singing Carols and observing advent.

Going to Church as usual and attending a few Christmas Parties and Awards.

Busy... Yes. Happy ... Yes. Thankful.. You betcha! Blessed.... beyond what I could have hoped for. God is Good.

Pineapple Express

2009-11-16T11:00:00.000-08:00

As of today our island is being hit by the Pineapple express... Sounds wonderful right! Nope. Hawaii doesn't send lovely pineapples or sunshine our way. It sends torrential rain storms our way. Not that I'm complaining. It just means winter is here. Liquid sunshine is what my family has taken to calling it. Day to day barely enough light to call it day time leeks through the clouds. Our Trees, houses, noses and lives are soaked every time we walk out side for a while.

I for one am glad that the rain is filling up our lakes and reseviors with much needed water. Now if I had only gotten those rain barrels!

The Olympic Torch

2009-11-02T10:28:00.000-08:00

The same day as Hallowen the Olympic Torch came through our town! So we walked down from our home to cheer the runner on. The sun broke through, a Rain bow appeared when the runner and the torch appeared! I was never more convinced that God was there with us.

Go Team Canada! May you be Blessed at the Olympics!

Happy Halloween.

2009-11-02T10:21:00.000-08:00

Being a Believing Christian family there are many opinions we could have on the subject of Halloween. One being it's the work of the devil. That we shouldn't participate. One is that it has the Name of Halloween which the catholic church changed the name of Guy Faulks, which is a pagan holiday, to one that is a holy day in which to take care of the Grave yards and show your respect to the dead... Kind of like our veterans day now.

Or one it's a Holliday where kids play make believe and dress up and Grown ups have fun with them and give out candy for their efforts.

We Celebrate Holloween. There are so many traditions that get tossed out and not enough fun to be had in a legal way in our culture already. So with that said... we have fun and dress up... scarey or not.

Hawaii

2009-10-01T10:13:00.000-07:00

1st picture is a view from our Lenie. We had the use of a lap pool which you can see in the picture, a koi pond and a pool that was a lagoon pool. We had 3 hot tubs to choose from. Can we say spoiled?? yes yes we were. We lived better on vacation then we do at home. :) hehe.

2nd picture is of the Ocean Lagoon.. basicly felt like our own personal beach. There were barely 5 families on the beach most days. The busiest times being sunset. This was Ella's first step into the ocean. The ocean on our island is typically very very cold. There is something about getting hypothermia in 10 seconds and dieing... not so fun.. But Hawaii ... le sigh soooo wonderful and Ella LOVED it. She giggle the whole time she was in it! We had to constantly watch her as she would just run in! Aiden even swam in it with Grandpa Willie and Daddy.

3rd picture is of Grandmas suzy and Grandpa willie enjoying lunch and a laugh next to the pool. Grandpa Willie, was very sceptical on this trip when we announced we were going but once there he was thrilled, happy, relaxed. He swam, walked, enjoyed to the fullest! My Mom was sooo happy. She said she could see her as a beach bumb.

A Most wonderful Vacation

2009-10-01T09:57:00.000-07:00

This is our second sunset on Oahu, Hawaii. on Ko Olina Lagoons. This vacation was wonderful. Scott out did him self with our Condo/timeshare choice to the environment. A Good vacation is a vacation that makes you never want to leave. But knowing it's a vacation and not life you return with wonderful memories that makes you want to return! Here are some favorite pictures

We the picture of Scott and I is at the polynisian cultrual center. The picture of Aiden was under the pool water. A pool he spent 5 hours in that day. The picture of Ella was taken at the zoo. Her standing up in her stroller.

Saying Good Bye in more then one Way

2009-09-13T19:39:00.000-07:00

So 6 years ago I started on a new adventure, a new journey, a new calling from God and became a Mom to Aiden.   Like many people with out kids, I didn't know how overwhelming, and consuming and Delightful and painful having a kid was and continues to be. I didn't know how attached I would be to this person that came into my life. I didn't realize that I wouldn't want to share him... How much I wanted to protect him. How much I didn't want the evil in this World to ruin his innocents.   I didn't realize that I would love his joy as he learned and achieved new things. I would adore his dancing in the kitchen. That I would hord and adore his hugs and kisses and laughs.

So last year when the Schooling issue came up I definatly wanted to try homeschooling. Nothing crazy. Something approved of by the Education group in B.C. But Christian based learning. I thought I had the approval and go a head from my spouse... until 3 weeks before the school date. He had gone a head and signed Aiden up for School .. Public school.

I had hated School for many reasons... reasons that any sane person would hate school for. I didn't want that for Aiden. But the damage was done. Aiden went to school. I was skeptical at best. Negative when it made our life difficult with a new baby. Happy when Aiden excelled. Proud when he was in concerts. and worried on days he came home unhappy.

So I suppose I choose to keep my husband happy and my Child happy. I'm still choosing that path.

But I mourn not being the main influence through out the day. I mourn not having him around to talk to and to laugh with. I mourn that the vision I had for over 4 years was dash away and really it feels like no one cares or even agrees with me.   I know I know rehashing. who wants to hear that right?

So Aiden in now in full days :( I cried. I had to say good bye. I had to also say good bye to Homeschooling and I cried. I loved the thought of continuing to educate and build this beautiful child.   I still mourn and read homeschooling blogs and magazines writen on the subject, esentualy torturing my self on what could have been.

I feel guilty as if I have let him down. No matter what others may say... I believe that Mothers do know what is best for their children. Especially when they love their child and want the best for them.

But I say good bye. Goodbye to my child every morning. Goodbye to my dream. Parting is such sweet sorrow.

My Girl

2009-08-23T19:48:00.000-07:00

This beauty is Ella, She is my good sleeper. However she hasn't slept through the night even at 15 months of age. She already has mood swings.. and boy watch out if she hasn't been properly napped, fed and other wise handled because she will drive you crazy with whining. She hits and throws fits

She is loving... she throws kisses. She dances. She runs with her hands flying behind her. She laughs at people being silly. She loves being busy. She loves playing besides other kids. Her smile is lovely. She learns quickly... but will only do things when she wants too... not so good for mom or Dad.

We love her. All 3 of us.
I guess that's the Best part of this all. Because it sure isn't the sleep.

10 Things I Adore about my Husband

2009-08-14T14:10:00.001-07:00

1. He's a family man. Much to his surprise I think, he loves being a Dad and spending time with his kids and making them laugh.
2. Once in a routine he is most happy. Getting him there is another story ... for another time ;)
3. He is open to new foods and trys the food I make.... Even Hot pink soup. hehe
4. He is responsible and trust worthy and a hard worker. The Bills are paid on time, he is frugal, He is a save before you buy type of person. He's worth to price :)
5. I love and find it annoying that when he is stressed out, or grumpy he automatically cleans. Lol! Even if I have cleaned the house spotless. He can't help it.
6. He plans. every inch of a trip he is going on is planned to the T. Le More' for me. I stress out. Yep ...Love to travel as long as He is with me.
7. He thinks I'm smart. There are times that I doubt this. But usually he figures it out again ;) wink
8. He gets along with my Parents. My parents Love him.
9. I love the way he responds to my humor. He resists... but the smurk comes along then the grin and laugh. Resistance is futile. You will be assimulated ( to quote Star trek) One of his favorite shows
10. I love when he takes me on a relaxing Motor Bike Ride on the back roads of this island. The way he is relaxed and at peace.

Photo's of Sombrio Beach

2009-08-10T14:05:00.001-07:00

Picnic Lunch and my family happy!

The piles of Rocks

The Seaguls in flight.

The smell of salt and dead seaweed in the air. The crispness of the air on your face. The steady rhythm of the Pacific ocean. I really have grown to love it.

Sombrio Beach

2009-08-09T21:10:00.001-07:00

So this past week we had a little adventure to a new beach . We packed up our picknic lunches and packed up the Beasties (Kids) and Started to Drive.

This sets fear in to my husbands heart at first. Drive... from comfort ... to where ??? He is steadily doing math in his mind.. Gas.... food... time... So the destination better be worth it!

At first as we exit town... I was thinking.... lets go as far away from the city as possible... then as 2 hours went by... I said... The NEXT beach looks good. .. Yep Sombrio. We've never been there before together!

Ha we turned on to the most potholed dirt road I've seen in a long time! Us in our Little Blue wonder..... It's a wonder we didn't sink into a few holes and disappear. It was the one time I was thinking Jeep... SUV.... Truck. How ever our little blue wonder made it! Good Car... yes .. Good little car!

We walked down the wooded path over some cool wood bridges and finally made it to the Thundering shore! I LOVED IT! except for the spiders...eewww. You could tell the waves Got really Big here, as the rocks were piled HIGH. Big round Rocks ... the picture of Ella gives you perspective.

Aiden and Dad loved trying to scare some Seagulls into flight. :) There was a whole flock of them just ready to be pounced upon apparently! Gotta love the way boys think hehe

Things were awesome...other then a little brush with some stinging nettle on my wrist. Plants that sting... :p

Ella walking

2009-08-07T08:50:00.000-07:00

Here is Ella taking her first steps...

Food at Weddings!

2009-08-07T08:45:00.000-07:00

One thing Gina and I both can agree on. We love fooooood at the weddings. It is right up there in the top three or 4 things for a wedding.

1. location and invitations / directions for people to show up
2. The brides dress
3. Photography
4. Food !

Here are a few sample shots from weddings we have attended

The Health Care Debate

2009-08-06T16:13:00.000-07:00

This is my Boy Aiden when he was about a Year Old. What most people don't know is he Had Heart surgery when he was 4 1/2 months old. He is Now a 6 year old with no restrictions on him and no medications he needs to take. He does however need regular ECG and monitoring of his Heart/Aorta and valves.

I was fortunate enough to be living in Canada with Health Care. We wouldn't have qualified for any State help if we lived in the states. The continuing Care of him although positive and slight would have drove us into the ground. Like Most people we thought because we were both healthy and no one in our family had, had a sick child, That we in turn would have a Healthy child. We didn't have an unhealthy life style, we don't smoke, we rarely drink. We are of healthy weight. We eat right.

We choose our doctor who found the Heart murmur and then sent us to a specialist. We choose whether Aiden got surgery or not. ... yeah .. we choose. ( it was a no brainer as he wouldn't have lived past 30 if that) What we wouldn't have had a choice in if we were in the states ..was the level of care or the Bills.

Biblically, Jesus took care of the sick and encouraged us to do so. He didn't charge them an exorbitant fee because he knew that our bodies are frail and you HAD to come and he could make a fortune... Because believe me HE could have.

You may say.. but most people aren't like that. There are people who are close to us in the states that are declaring bankruptcy because of Medical bills! Because a child broke a bone. The Baby got sick with the flu. Because the wife needed medical attention because of a genetic disorder. An Uncle that died because he wouldn't go to the hospital because he was poor and couldn't afford it.

Really Who is choosing who lives and dies in the States. In truth it is the Doctors and Hospitals who's bottom end is their bills and pockets. Who usually has the best house on the hills besides the famous?

I don't believe the American gov't wants HC. So they will make it sound as ludicriss as possible so the people won't vote for it. Then save face saying they tried but the American public voted it down. Mean while the whole world watches Us television and the news ... where they air their dirty laundry. No wonder different countries look back at the U.S. and shake their heads.

If you believe God is who He is FEAR NOT! You can vote for a change in the Heath Care Bill. Yep .. You can because it's a democracy you live in. There are many Sick people who need this. Many Baby boomers that are going to make the younger generation pay for their sickness if this goes on much longer because the bills will be passed down to them their children... ( Not such a great inheritance.)

One thing is guaranteed... You will get sick. You will Die. People are making money hand over fist because of that Fact.

k ... enough Heath Care is not evil. I thank God Above for it Daily in the smile of my Healthy Son.

Beautiful B.C.

2009-07-26T17:47:00.000-07:00

This picture is taken at a friend place over looking Brentwood Bay.

The Okanagan Area has been having major Forest fires on the Main Land, so there has been a lot of smoke in the air. Although It is hundreds of miles away from our lovely island and we can't see any smoke in the air it does create lovely sunsets. This was taken right after a Thunderstorm with rain came over us. We had Double Rainbows and the Sky looked like it was on fire.

Happy Grandparents equals happy kid!

2009-07-18T12:42:00.000-07:00

These are some happy campers. literally! Aiden spent a week camping in Wyoming with his Grandpa Willie and his cousins. The older ones we have now dubbed the 3 musketeers. Aiden, Spencer and Justin are those dubbed that name. They had a blast together... and I mean who wouldn't? They had Male bonding time.

Some Activities they did were ~ Fishing. Aiden actually caught a fish and when his mom asked him... did you eat the fish... he said... with a look of shock.. No Moooom... even fish have to live. LOL as if I were some loony bird. hmm maybe I am but that is besides the point.

s'mores! Aiden finally burnt his first marsh mellow. Oh yeah! a right of passage scratched of the list.

Collected sticks for the fire... now when asked.. aiden will say this was not his favorite thing.

Get Down right Boy Dirty. Yep we have a big check there. I personally wasn't there to see or smell this apperition of my boy but I can sure immagine it.

Learn to use the bathroom out side... what am I saying... there was no bathroom. Joy of joy for boys. marking teritory is all I have to say about that!

Learning new sayings such as ... I punched him in the nuts... hmmmm I had to laugh... however Aiden was yelling this over the fence to his 4 yr old friend... hehe Needless to say that Glorious tale was cut short!

Overall a glorious success and memories to be had by all!

Busy Bees

2009-06-23T08:57:00.000-07:00

This Busy Summer full of fun has officially Started Beeeee For School is out!
One Happy boy started his summer with a luxurious visit to his favorite Aunty Cathy's and Uncle Jay's home. Why are these his Favorites.. hmm lets see.
1. They take him to 3 Bouncy castles in a span of one day!
2. Video Games.... At home there are non.. yep Mom is not a fan of the Brain suckers A.K.A ~ T.V. , Video games, Ipod, and to much time on the computer.

Now Ella, his sister was less impressed and TORTURED us in no uncertain terms! Can we say~ Bad, Awful, horrible, Screaming, crying Traveler? Yes Yes we can! Driving for hours on end didn't suit her at all!

However once at the place of arrival she LOVED the freedom to make her parents run, because there was so much to get into and a new place to explore!

At the End of our travels Aiden was sad to leave. Yet We know there are many more adventures to be had this year and so many new experiences to enjoy!

Girly Girl

2009-06-14T08:03:00.000-07:00

There is a time in a girls life when she no longer wants to look like a mom. Is it vanity... I guess it is. Some of it is just being tired and worn out from lack of sleep. Since God is making me new from the inside and I'm working on the stuff I know I don't like... I suppose a haircut or two is nothing.

It does however make a body feel more.... refreshed

Summer Joy

2009-06-11T09:31:00.001-07:00

Summer joys of Bare feet

Summer joys of Tall grass and a boy Out side finally!

Summer Joys of Growing big enough to reach the dry erase board

Joys of Joy for Joy for Love!

SO Many Cakes... and a Recipe

2009-06-11T08:57:00.000-07:00

This past week really started with CAKE and ended with CAKE. You ask your self is there ever really enough cake? Take into account that this week we have had 4.. yes FOUR cakes. These are 3 of the 4 cakes we have had. Ella's first Birthday cake. Aiden's friend, Cole's Birthday cake. Scott's Birthday cake, and Aiden's birthday cake..... pant pant. TOO much cake. especially since 3 of these cakes homes where in this house.

My question is this.... How am I to loose baby weight when the cakes in the kitchen are crying out to be ate? It had to be done. Le sigh. Maybe this next week will be better?

http://www.lighthousecakecompany.ca/

These people who are about 2 blocks from us right now, made an absolutely fabulous cake. they free handed the TaeKwon do Crest and taste.... mm It was a tasting pleasure! so yummy!

This is my husbands all time favorite cake!
Carrot Ginger cake with Orange and Ginger Cream Cheese Frosting.

3cups Flour
1 pound of Lrg. Carrots peeled and Grated
( Food processor! other wise it takes half a day to do this the old fashion way!... you know I tried it hehe!)

3 Eggs
1/3 C Butter Milk
1t Grated Ginger
2t Baking powder
1t Baking Soda
1t pure Vanilla
2C Sugar
1 1/2 C Vegetable Oil
1t salt (optional)
1t Ground Cinnamon

Mix wet together and the carrots
Mix Dry ingredients

Then mix them together

Bake at 350-300
(Depending on how hot your oven is)

Orange Ginger Frosting

1/4 C Room Temp. Butter
3 Eight ounce cream cheese
3 Cups Confectioner Sugar
1 TBS Grated orange Zest
2TB Grated ginger
1tsp Pure Vanilla

Mix till Creamy~ frost the cake ! yummy!

Aiden's Fake Birthday.

2009-06-11T08:34:00.000-07:00

Happy Early Birthday to my first born Aiden! My how time does fly. Soon Aiden will be 6yrs Old. Time has flown too fast. I have found by having him I am... the Bear with her Cubs. So protective but my heart is like mush... mashed potato mush. :) I Adore my Boy!

Aiden has been going to the Tae kwon do Academy http://www.goldstreamtkda.com/ since before his 3rd birthday. He Loves this class and hasn't wavered in the liking of this. So we Decided to throw his birthday there!

I mean why have a mess and 10 kids at my house ;) I know my mind I have lost... but really... I think there are some brain cells still there!

Aiden breaking a board. There is no trick... this is all him! That's right! he is a strong and mighty DRAGON!

All the little friends who celebrated with Aiden. Tim Dudley ~ The Sensei, Was wonderful and I, as a parent am so happy with how he kept every one busy and active and having fun! Impressed, thrilled, overwhelmed, overjoyed, doing cartwheels!

Aiden received a NEW BIKE ~ Pictures to come. Plus tons of gifts from his friends! He is spoiled... well my kids usually are but this time... He was truly SPOILED!

Love you my Little Man!

Giving up Your Birthday

2009-06-05T16:08:00.001-07:00

So this year, I've decided that in lue of my birthday~ ( I'm turning 35... and really who wants to do that at first) ~ I'm pouring my time and money into my Kids birthdays. :)

I'm so valiant, generous even... yes Yes I think so. I can just picture my rewards.... giggling kids. Lots of cake. Oh... that's right ... and a husband who is wondering in his mind where is all this money going.. hehe

Some times you have to look the other way my love... Look the other way!

oooo did I mention I'm going to Hawaii this year! did I? Did I? No?.. well that is happening! hehe. Shrug... cough cough... I think my birthday is actually that trip hehe

Ella Rose turns 1 - and her admirers show their support

2009-06-04T09:32:00.000-07:00

The Joys of Budding independence

2009-06-01T09:06:00.001-07:00

This is my Handsome little guy in his after and before pictures. He had done what I assume many a generation of kids have done on my side of the family..... Yep he cut his own hair!

I knew in my mind it was coming. I just had this feeling that my kids had enough of me in them that one day... One day they would take a pair of scissors and chop chunks of their hair off.

This hair cut.... in honor of me being from cowboy country is affectionatly called ... a Cowboy cut. ;) He's still my boy.. He's still adorable... but Man! He's got such amazing hair it made me cringe to shave it off.

Ella enjoys her birthday cake!

2009-05-27T07:20:00.000-07:00

Ella opening her presents after her taste of Cake and a Bath. It's hard to believe that this little lady is one. We'll little lady is stretching it... we call her beasty mock 2. :) She does have a way with our hearts... all three of our hearts. :) Yep even Aiden is weak to her charms. :)

Hmm... I think the chocolate/strawberry cupcake has possessed her... no I know it did. She was awake till 8 and truly didn't get to sleep till past 10 p.m.

As you can tell it was a Smashing Birthday. She had 13 guest over to spoil her. :) Yes I think they succeeded because she was happy every moment of her party. Happy Birthday My Ella Bella! My Beasty Mock 2.

Happy Birthday big girl !

2009-05-27T07:18:00.000-07:00

Suspense

2009-05-25T09:02:00.000-07:00

Every one in our house is waiting in Suspense. The expected it happening tomorrow. But it's the first of it's Kind.

She is the Darling of the house. The Noise in the Silence. The mess in our orderly home. She is the eary feeling that history may be repeating it's self. and Yes she is having her BIRTHDAY! Her FIRST! you say ... wait.... No.... God hasn't moved time that fast. I say wait... I'm just getting use to the baby in our home....

I grin, There is a mess to be had. a Party to throw. An ever repeated song in north America to be sung http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Happy_Birthday_to_You Cake to finally be ate and a happy girl in the end to send to Bed

keep posted... Pictures of Said event are soon to be posted!

Aiden and Daddy went to western speedway !

2009-05-18T10:17:00.000-07:00

Aiden loved his night out with Daddy! He said the best part was touching the race cars! From what the guys said it was loud and smelly! Glad Ella and Mommy stayed home and kept things quiet.

Baby Ella at Hatley Castle !

2009-05-18T10:15:00.000-07:00

Ahh the princess "Cinder- Ella" at her perspective home. Now where is prince charming.. hmm. Must work on that. :)

Final Collage

2009-05-18T09:05:00.000-07:00

Another Collage

2009-05-18T09:04:00.000-07:00

Lauren B.'s prom at Hatley Castle for photos

2009-05-18T08:43:00.000-07:00

Mr. Aiden Rose !

2009-05-10T13:08:00.000-07:00

Flowers and a card for mothers day

2009-05-10T13:03:00.000-07:00

2009-05-10T12:44:00.000-07:00

Happy mothers day to our mommy (Love Aiden and Ella)

Appriciating happiness

2009-05-05T09:18:00.000-07:00

Ella playing with Momma and the camera

Aiden our full fledged Reader.

Aww pretty girl!

One would think by our picture that we are the picture of happiness with our kids. But isn't it true we only put up happy picture and like happy pictures? I think it's so because we need reminders that there is happiness around the corner. Don't get me wrong. We are happy ... Most of the time.

How ever there are the fits of rage from Ella when ever she is getting her diaper changed or not getting her way or Aiden has stopped her from getting into things. Not to mention getting stuff out of her mouth! She also whines. I'm now wondering if we have modeled this as parents or has she picked this up naturally?

Poor Aiden runs from the girl. Not that I blame him. She runs after him hehe. Some times it's with happiness and some times it's to run from going to Bed! LOL! fun after the fact but frustrating during.

She is good also though and that does make up for the hard times. She give a plethora of kisses! She snuggles and gives hugs. She smiles lots.

She is signing more and more. Daddy, No, up, milk, want and a version of all done. She waves bye bye or Hello. Not to mention saying words like num num for food. Mama Dada Brabra Ba ( for any b word) Lala for her self. She says oof oof for what a doggy says.

So she is moving forward :) I am holding on for the happy times and praying through the rough times.

Now Aiden.. is wonderful at 5 almost 6! But then again we've gone through some rough times to get here. :) Star wars/clone warathons are going on in our home. Reading, writing, drawing, puzzling, singing, and yes sword play! :) He is a busy boy!

God Bless and TTFN

Aiden Growing up and Ella 11 months Old

2009-04-24T17:28:00.000-07:00

Aiden is getting to be such a young man. I wish I could make the clock stop moving forward so I could have more time with my boy. He is busy with T-ball and Tae Kwon Do now. He plays with his sister and is now being given the responsibility of chores. He is reading!!!!!! Reading! I'm so proud of him. He now officially gets bored! Boy do I remember that from my childhood. As a Mom now I realize my Mom couldn't keep us busy all the time. hehe. He is so special and I hope he Keeps that knowledge close to his heart. He is very loved and I'm so Blessed by God to have him for a son.

Ahh Ella, My joy and angst some days. She is into absolutely everything and her currency for free passes is tons of kisses! hehe. She kisses even the boys at school! She is very loving.

She is officially 11 months as of the 26th. Time has just flown by with the family being busy. She cruising furniture and only holding on with one hand. She says Stop ( Daup!) Momma. Bra-Bra ( brother ) Dada. Ooof Oof ( woof woof) She signs for milk. and Dadda. She Waves bye bye and Hello. She blows kisses. She mainly babbles. and squeals.

She eats mainly sweet foods. :( much to my disappointment. She will be disappointed too when the time comes for me to notify her she won't be getting just sweets all day long. She does love Re fried beans so maybe we have some hope?

We are already planing birthdays. Aiden is have 2 birthdays and Ella just one. :) It should be fun for all though!

Aiden Starts T-ball

2009-04-20T10:16:00.000-07:00

Aiden At Bat

As per Requested by Grandpa Willie and the excitement of one little boy. The T-ball season is now apart of our life for a few months. Aiden is thrilled! He's on Team Pennzoil. We've only had a meet and greet and opening ceremonies which includes picture, but Aiden is still happy and looking forward to catching and pitching and batting! We hope he really enjoy this treat!

He is second from the left, bottom row. :)

Good Things Happening

2009-03-27T09:55:00.000-07:00

One of the many happy, stress relieving things that have happened in the Rose home is Aiden Now has a new storage system in his room made by Ikea! His room is .... gasp ( as we know this is rare in this house) ORGANIZED! Spotless too and so happily so that Scott and the rest of the family spent some time just sitting in there in awe of all the hard work and beauty it represented!

Another Happy thing is Ella is 10 Months Old! She has sure aged fast ;) hehe. Time flys... all that stuff! I Wanted to show that Lovely Dimple of her's. She is a mover for sure! She has decided that Crawling is faster then the inch worm move she has been making for 4 months. Standing is Awesome! She is quite proud of her self. She is also cruising.. not just standing... around the furniture.

She has Said Dada, Momma, but now UP and BaBa is taking over in her speech. She is signing for Nursing and up too. She gives Kisses to Mommy and Aiden but has yet to give one yet to Daddy. She will ... but I think she's a bit hesitant about scratchy faces. She plays peekaboo. And now claps when you say clap hehe. She Dances when ever she here's Momma singing or playing piano or the Drums playing and her favorite is when the Guitar shows up! So cute! She will even grab a percussion instrument and join in if one is near by.

Her Hair style is done by "Defy Gravity". The attempts to tame it have failed. But we are enjoying her style! It suits her! She is a screechy thing, and not shy about letting you know when you have up set her. hehe. She has no fear of most things. Loves playing with Daddy when he comes home, and Loves when Aiden plays with her too!

Aiden at Clover Point march 2009

2009-03-18T15:59:00.000-07:00

This is our lovely calm boy. Aiden, on one of his days off from school, went with Mom and Ella to visit Daddy for lunch. We also packed a lunch and went to Clover point, one of the many places Dad and Mom like to visit. Daddy took this picture of Aiden enjoying the view.

Seeking God's Kingdom First

2009-03-17T12:04:00.001-07:00

As I sit here contemplating our Church and it's size and growth I wonder what it takes to grow a church plant? Does it truely Begin with me?

For some time I have struggled with trying to get away from mediocrity and having no excitement or joy about my walk with God. I do go to a bible Study. I am the Worship leader of a small church. But that doesn't mean I've got it all together. Yep, I even know the right words to say if asked most questions about my faith. What matters is my heart. Getting Right with God.

For the Lent Season I've focused on an out ward giving up of a vise of mine. But I have a feeling God is asking me to Listen to him. To Seek HIS kingdom first.
Matthew6:32-34
³²For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. ³³But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. ³⁴Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Mark 4:22-24 (New International Version)

²²For whatever is hidden is meant to be disclosed, and whatever is concealed is meant to be brought out into the open. ²³If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear."

²⁴"Consider carefully what you hear," he continued. "With the measure you use, it will be measured to you—and even more.

http://www.biblegateway.com

These Bible verses keep coming up in my life. So I'm to seek his kingdom. I am to listen. What can I say to this but here I am Lord. Where you lead me I will follow.

Time to not hide. Time to be bold. Time to not worry or fret about what others think. Time stop waiting for other peoples relationships with God to feed my hungering soul that longs after real food. The Food that only Comes from God. Seeking his Kingdom in my life.

I hope and pray that this step will lead to great things from God in my life. As well as a growth in God's kingdom and his church. A Revival in our Area and excitement!

Lisa's Maternity Photo's

2009-03-14T10:50:00.000-07:00

I am currently working on the special effects on lisa's photos. This is one of many special shots of her family and the twins at 30 weeks gestation.

First Maternity Photo Shoot

2009-03-08T12:47:00.000-07:00

Lisa Pregnant with Scarlet and Isaiah. Her 4th and 5th Blessings. :)

After seeing Lisa's trouble getting pictures of her last pregnancy, and me wanting do more photo's of Children and maternity, we got together at her home and did some intimate shots. I'm really happy that they turned out so well! I also am happy to say that Scott was able to relax and just play with the kids and Talk to Lisa's husband Scott. :) I really enjoyed this type of Photography and the time spent doing this was really special. :)

Some Quotes

2009-03-03T17:05:00.000-08:00

Aiden has just watched the life story of Beatrix Potter and was inspired to draw Peter Rabbit. One right after another. I find it interesting to find this quote.

If I had the money Aiden would be in Montessorie ... I agree. The public Education system is sadly Lacking. Life Education comes from living life and learning through it. Homeschooling would have been my choice how ever after lengthy discussions on family opinions and being cut to the core. Aiden is in public school. I still wish that we could at least put him in Montessory however financially it's not sponsored by the government as an Education option.

Ella is 9 Months Old and my handsome Boy

2009-02-27T08:53:00.001-08:00

Among the many things Aiden does fabulously, one of them is Cooking. :) He making licking the beaters look good and Yummy! :) We have a great time together making a mess and getting an extra taste in or Two of our baking. :) He really is a joy! and the cookies or brownies always turns out better when he is around because he reminds mommy not to burn them ;) hehe.

Ella Has turned 9 months today! Yep another Dawn of a new Age and look how well she survives our parenting ;) hehe. She now weights in at 16lb 8oz at her last check up. She is very small but healthy. Her Friends have decided to all get teeth... yet she stubbornly refuses and has gone for the gummy smile still! Her Friends are all up to 20+ pounds.. Yep even the 3-4 month olds! Of course they are boys but hey.. is it me or is Ella looking small compared to them. :) Ah well she is Healthy.. that's all that counts!

She is Now pulling her self up on things. She has Decided going over something is much more fun then going around... except when she gets stuck hehe. She is clapping her hands, waving, putting her hands up.. for UP! She has started to get the sign language for milk ( we call it Ahhhhhs ;) )

She can now Walk holding Mommy or Daddy or Aiden's fingers. We've bought some Leather Roobeez that are size 0-6 months because her feet are tiny and she needed shoes to walk outside. She is pulling up into standing when it suits her purposes of grabbing objects she's not allowed. She is also a screamer, screecher, caterwauler and havoc wreaker ... no you say.. but the parents of her will shake their sad little heads in agreement. She is officially our fit thrower/flailer... Oy!

She has also given us 2 nights of 8+ hours of sleep. However, most nights it's 4 hours of sleep...feeed 4 hours sleep....feed 2 hours sleep. I know, I know ... all those parents with babies.... all they talk about is sleep sleep sleep. But how can you not when you never knew how much you would miss it! We have the routine down. No matter what.. we hold to it. When I say we.. I mean Mommy sticks to it as she is the main instigator of routines.

Over all we are enjoying our kiddo's and prayer for many healthy happy months/years ahead!

Went for a family day out to wiffen spit

2009-02-20T17:36:00.000-08:00

Daddy and Ella!

Too Elaborate on this is Mom :) This was Daddies and Mommies official Valentines day Date. Daddy took the whole family up to sooke, about a 30 minute drive to a beautiful spot called Whiffen Spit Where there is a break water path that shelters the harbour there. Aiden and Ella played Get Me. :) With Ella giggling the whole time. We smelled the seaweed smell of low tide. We picked up rocks that were pretty. Ella walked on Mommies Hands. Aiden looked for baby crabs under the rocks on the beach. We heard Eagles crying in the trees and saw a Blad Eagle in the trees. We walked to the end of this Break water to the Fog horn and look over the view to a Beautiful White house over looking the water. sigh Picturesk!

On the Way Back Ella Rode Daddies shoulders and kept raising her hands clapping. This was her first ride and she LOVED it! By the End of the walk she had moved down to Daddies arms and promptly fell asleep in the cool breeze. Aiden was relieved to have finally made it to the car as his legs were getting tired. ;)

Dad splurged and bought us lunch at Subway and drove us home in Quiet. :) It Was a lovely way to spend the Day.

After that Aiden and Ella had a play Date with Steve and Stephy and family while we had our DATE night! yaay! our first since we had Ella. We went to the Garlic rose and had a fancy meal with Wine and Coffee and Dessert.. YUMMY! Loved this Day!

Happy Valentines Day !

2009-02-14T18:05:00.000-08:00

At the Rose house on the official Valentines day, we made it a day for the kids. :) And Here is a Rare picture of Scott with the kiddos. We spent most of the day at the Common Wealth Pool with the Childrens Heart Network. Aiden had a BLAST! He met new friends in the pool and Scott and I met new Parents. :) We swam for 2 hours then went for a party up stairs for another hour and a half. :) Over all it was great!

Here are the kids in valentine clothes! Hope you had a great Valentines!

Aiden is now a white belt with a brown stripe :-)

2009-02-11T21:08:00.000-08:00

Here is the video of Aiden getting his brown belt test done. This was in the first week of february 2009.

:-)

February 7th wedding

2009-02-07T19:58:00.000-08:00

Feb 7th Wedding

2009-02-07T19:29:00.000-08:00

Ella 8 Months old and Aiden 5 1/2

2009-01-31T20:12:00.000-08:00

Here is Aiden 5 1/2 years old and Ella 8 months old. While Aiden has been busy in school learning to count to 100 and above, learning to read and creating all kinds of art... Ella has now become a mover! She is busily trying to scootch and get into things. She is now pulling her self up as of this week although it is a bit shakey and is thrilled to be in standing position. She also gives fives, and kisses. When I say come here she usually will head in my direction. She is also saying the sylables of Dada, Lala, Baba, nana but I'm still waiting for Ma ma!

Aren't they cute! Ella is so enthralled with her Big Brother. Aiden and her play well together and seem to adore one another. Aiden even loves to go shopping with me for new clothes for her! He's so cute when he picked up a pare of shoes for her and said... aww mom arent these so cute!

Here is a great picture of the School Babies. The Mothers in the kidergarten class all stand out side of the class room outside doors and talk and this day we got to go in and read to our kiddo's and bring the babies too! So we quickly snapped a picture.. there are two more babies that weren't there and Ella is the only girl. So ~They are not in order of birth. Which one do you think is the oldest? Middle and youngest?

From left to Right~Hayden , Ella and Kade.

Ella with attitude :-)

2009-01-16T21:20:00.000-08:00

Scott took this picture today, with the sun just right and the look just right too :-)

"Taylor" Bear comes for a Visit at the Roses

2009-01-15T19:31:00.000-08:00

In Aiden's Kindergarten Class there is this Bear named Taylor. Each child gets a chance to be apart of his adventures and then write the adventure they had with him down. So far Taylor has been introduced to Aiden's sister and Grandparents.

Taylor Bear even got a lesson in Tae Kwon Do at the Goldstream Tae Kwon Do Academy. He is a mixed belt. hehe ;) Here is Aiden and Sensei Tim Dudley and Taylor Bear. :) Taylor loved all the action and fun that was had at class time.

Family Dinner

2009-01-08T21:49:00.000-08:00

Our belated, Rose, Family dinner :-) Everyone got together. It was a Christmas Miracle !

Me at Mount Rushmore South Dakota

2008-12-29T11:16:00.000-08:00

300$ sooke harbour house !

2008-12-29T11:13:00.000-08:00