A Beautiful Mess

Jumping back in- New Aspenisms

2010-09-24T15:06:00.000-07:00

Aspen: Mom I need a tissue I have fuzzies on my tongue! *gags*

Me: Ok, get one out of the bathroom, and why do you have fuzzies on your tongue?

Aspen: Because I licked the blanket on your bed.

Me: Why in the world did you do that?

Aspen: Because I was hungry!

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

Aspen: Mommy isn't that so silly?

Me: Yes it is very funny isn't it?

Aspen: Did it crap you up?

Me: (holding back laughter) It's did it CRACK you up, honey.

New Gentryisms:

Gentry: Ahhhh da da da da ngah mmmmm

He then blows a raspberry & screams at a pitch that is usually reserved for junior high girls.

I'm jumping back in to blogging. I have lots of pics and stories to post and I need a place to put them or I will forget them! More to come....

Happy Birthday Kelly!!

2009-11-20T13:31:00.000-08:00

Aspen had the best time "accessorizing" with Daddy!

Kel-
I cannot imagine me without you.

I love you more than I could ever put into words.

Happy Birthday honey!!

xoxoxoxo,
Monster

Here I am...kinda...

2009-10-29T21:54:00.000-07:00

I'm still alive...kinda. :)

This pregnancy has been difficult. I'm not gonna lie. I had a very good pregnancy with Aspen. My normal health issues seemed to melt away, and my body seemed to relish the feel-good-preggo hormones. This time I was expecting the same...but it has not been so. I've felt like crap for the most part, to put it mildly. lol

The nausea has been extreme, and the achiness has taken more of a toll than I like to think about. My right hip has decided to send a shooting pain up and down my body most of the day and all of the night. The nausea has been way better lately since the Dr. gave me some meds to help with it. So I've been MIA for a bit. My job has been pregnancy and taking care of my other sweet busy baby. Kelly has been an angel. He has never complained, picked up more than his share, and encouraged and comforted me. He's simply amazing. My parents have helped with more than I ever could have expected them too. A few special friends have continued to support me and pray for me and contact me even though I'm not able to return the favor a whole lot lately. That means so much.

This last year has admittedly been the hardest year Kelly and I have had in our marriage so far...NOT that our marriage was the issue at all, just the external circumstances that we endured this last year have definitely made it the most trying so far. Without too many details...financial disaster, cancer, feeling betrayed by someone close, loss of possesions, secondary infertility, severe hardships endured by extended family....just to name a few. We know this last year was God-ordained and God-orchestrated. He has brought us to Him through these trials in ways we didn't anticipate or know we needed. We were forced to recognize what exactly was important, and what wasn't. Once again, faithful friends and family members were brought out of the woodwork, supporting us even when we didn't deserve it and couldn't offer much in return. The most wonderful blessing of all...a baby. A totally longed for but unexpected pregnancy. I have no words to describe it except divinely precious.

Kelly and I were able to get a quick getaway to the coast for our 11th anniversary. Aspen had the time of her life with her Aunts in Salem while were gone. We knew the trip would not consist of a lot, since I am low in energy, but we enjoyed our room on the beach leaving the windows wide open the entire time so we could hear the roar of the ocean and feel the cool sea breeze. It was much needed and neither of us wanted to leave! lol

Just wanted to share a few pics...I am 17 weeks in these photos. I am huge. People are already asking if I am getting close (I'm not even half way!) and one lady questioned if I was having twins. Oh well. I do looooooooooooove that I am pregnant! And we love, love, love this little baby more than we can imagine. It's all worth it :)

Sweet girl asleep in the car on the way over. I love this so much. Kelly said I was sleeping the same way...I have a feeling it wasn't so cute on me.

Guard your heart...

2009-09-25T15:19:00.000-07:00

"Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. "
Proverbs 4:23

Happy Birthday Dad!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-09-09T11:35:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm avoiding the blog-world lately, BUT I had to post a heartfelt Happy Birthday to the best dad ever.

This year has been a rough one for our family, for my dad in particular...his wife went through breast cancer, and he unfairly lost his job.

He has drawn on his faith and kept his head high amidst hurt, uncertainty, and complications. I am proud to have him as a father, and respect him so much. He is the best Grandpa and the best daddy. I am very, very blessed.

Happy birthday dad! Thank you for everything you do.

LOVE you!

In the bath...

2009-08-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

Aspen: Mommy, there is a BIG bubble! Ow!

Me: What? Where did the bubble come from?

Aspen: From my bottom. There are lots of them.

Nice.

I am NOT...

2009-08-11T19:25:00.000-07:00

my weight,

my facebook friends,

my shoes,

my bank account,

my church,

my emotions,

my jean size,

my fertility,

my vehicle,

my wit,

my neighborhood,

my education,

my health issues,

my friends,

my hair color,

my blog comments,

my credit score,

my home decor,

my text messages,

my job,

my family,

my talents,

my failures,

In fact I am not even my own...

Lord-

It's not because of who I am,

but because what of you've done.

It's not because of what I've done

But because of who you are.

And you told me who I am.

I am yours.

I am yours.

(song excerpt Casting Crowns)

Prayers for Mom: last surgery tomorrow!

2009-08-05T10:46:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is my Mom's last surgery in her treatment following a breast cancer diagnosis in early April 2009. She is now cancer free, and after tomorrow, she will be done with treatment for good!

Her surgery will most likely be around 7:30 am in Bend, and we would appreciate your prayers... specifically for the doctors wisdom and care, and for a complication free procedure and recovery.

Prayers for my dad and his career direction would be appreciated as well.

Thank you friends!

Aren't they cute :)
They've been married 35 years, and despite this year being a particularly rough one, they are still in love with each other, and in love with their God.

Video of Aunt Laura and Aunt Jennie finding out about baby #2

2009-08-04T17:47:00.000-07:00

This a week and a half ago.

Aspen came out from her nap with a shirt on that said "big sister." (see post below) Laura picked her up and said kinda sarcastically "Big sister?! You're not a big sister." Then my mom said "What did you say Laura?" The filming begins right after that.

It gets a bit shaky near the end because the camera man (proud daddy) gets a little emotional. :)

Just in case you haven't heard our great news...

2009-08-03T12:17:00.001-07:00

Tickled pink...A shower to remember...Moriah and Summer

2009-07-30T02:44:00.000-07:00

I have been looking forward to attending Summer's baby shower for years. It was even more of a privilege to be able to throw her a shower along with friends Cathy and Mya.

The theme was all things feminine with a rich appreciation for pink, just like Summer, just like a sweet new baby girl.

Our hope was that Summer would feel celebrated and reaffirmed that we are all so very excited and so very supportive about this new role in her life: motherhood. Summer looked incredibly beautiful and has that new "Mommy glow," and of course her daughter could not be ANY cuter or sweeter!

Encourgement abounded, tears flowed, and laughter roared throughout this very special shower.

We love you Summer and we love you little Miss Moriah! Mwah!

"Not flesh of my flesh,
nor bone of my bone
but still miraculously my own
Never forget -not for a minute-
you weren't born under my heart
but in it."

This girl is just too cool for words. :)

We wanna get married again and go down the aisle with style!!

2009-07-28T12:47:00.000-07:00

LOVE LOVE LOVE this!

Can't you totally see us going down the aisle this way?! Who wants to join us? :)

Oh, I sooooo want to do this...

And I still totally cried when the bride came in! How awesome was it that she danced too! :)

Our Fourth of July 2009

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

We had a packed day this year. We started out at the Pet Parade in Bend. This has become an annual thing for us, and this year was our third time attending. Aspen really loves it. We went with my mom and dad this time and met my sister Jenn and her hubby Ben there. It was nearly 100 degrees so we didn't make it this year to Drake park after the parade to enjoy the music and vendors. Oh well.

After the parade we headed home for a rest. In the evening, we headed to our good friend's house for dinner and play time. We rounded out the night by going out to the Redmond fairgrounds with our friends and enjoying the fireworks show there. It was a lot of fun and I can't believe we have lived here for 6 years and never knew this went on!! The atmosphere was great, people were doing there own fireworks all around, music was playing and people were tailgating and enjoying themselves. It had finally cooled off, so the evening was just perfect. The fireworks show was impressive, without being too short or too long. It's definitely something we would love to do again.

Little Miss Independent

My favorites

Flying Dog

Frying in the 100 degree heat

Experiencing the parade with Grandpa

I love her cute back and shoulders

Aunt Jennie, Uncle Benny and Aspen

Posing

Flag lined streets in Redmond, one of the flags is dedicated to my Grandfather.

Mid-day nap at home on the dog

Eli's shows off his skills under the close watch of Juneau

At the fairgrounds waiting for fireworks

Look at that one!

Shootin the breeze

I love this girl. She's such a great friend

Ooooh. Ahhhh. Pretty fireworks

Cutie patoot Nate

Um, there's a little something in your hair

God bless America

It's really past everyone's bedtime

Just for fun...here's Aspen and Kelly last July 4th.

Sweet little Moriah Lynn is here!!! Added picture!

2009-07-08T12:19:00.000-07:00

After 4+ years of infertility, bff Summer and hubby Mike are finally parents to a beautiful little girl!!

Their birthmom went into labor this morning and Moriah Lynn was born by c-section shortly after.

I only spoke with Summer briefly, but she is over the moon in love with her daughter! Moriah is a little peanut at 6.9 lbs and she has blue eyes and curly hair! She is being very sweet and quiet (for now, lol!)

Congrats Summer and Mike, I cannot wait to meet her!!!

Dancing makes her happy

2009-06-30T22:24:00.000-07:00

Another sooooooooo...

2009-06-18T12:21:00.001-07:00

Has anyone else said today,

"cheese is for eating, not juggling."

Soooooooo...

2009-06-17T11:58:00.000-07:00

Has anyone else cleaned peanut butter out of a 3 year old's belly button today?

New Aspenisms!

2009-06-03T19:34:00.001-07:00

Before kicking a ball in the yard Aspen says,
"Watch this power daddy!"

Aspen hands me her crayons and paper and says, "Let's draw a sunshine and a wonderful day."

Aspen's prayer,
"Thank you for Mommy and Daddy and Cupcakes and Grammie and Grandpa."

After having her sleeves pushed up so she could wash her hands, Aspen asks "Daddy, will you pull my arms off?" (meaning, will you pull my sleeves down)

According to Aspen, if a man is wearing a cowboy hat his name is Cowboy.

Aspen declared that "the shower was too spicy." (too hot)

Spagetti--- Basketti

New Aspenisms

2009-05-26T20:54:00.000-07:00

While reading her alphabet book, Daddy paused and said "And Aspen starts with an 'a'. And Daddy starts with a 'd'. And Mommy starts with a 'm'"!
Aspen thought for a minute and said "Yeah, and Lola starts with a '4'!

******

Last weekend we were getting ready to go out on the boat and Aspen came up to me and said "Big girls do not poop in the boat."

******

We passed an older couple holding hands while walking down the path. Aspen said hi to them. After they passed, she said "they're so cute!"

******

Refridgerator: Frigalater

Bubblegum: Gubblegum

Pancakes: Panpakes

There are moments...

2009-05-20T21:12:00.000-07:00

that happen every now and then that I will relive over and over again in my mind. Yesterday Aspen was sitting in my lap. She leaned over and put her head on my shoulder and looked up at me with those big brown puppy dog eyes. Her sweet little voice whispered, "Mommy, you are my best friend."

sniff, sniff

My boyfriend's song & sweatshirt

2009-05-18T12:44:00.000-07:00

There was a night not too long ago, where we went out for the evening with some friends. We were out of town at the coast and went to dinner and a concert and then did a little karaoke-ing. My boyfriend got up there and sang "Good morning beautiful," by Steve Holy. Part way through the song, he came over to our table and sang to me. A little cheesy? Perhaps. Totally soaked it up? I did.

After our fun night out, we went back to our rental house and some of us got in the hot tub. My boyfriend stayed upstairs in case my daughter woke up. Without meaning to, my friend and I stayed up chatting until 3 am. Oops.

Once we finally broke ourselves away from our continual conversation, I snuck in to my room and checked on my daughter, who was fast asleep with her arms behind her head. I realized I was freezing, and frantically looked around for my sweatshirt. It was too dark and the only sweatshirt I could find belonged to my boyfriend. I hurriedly put in on and jumped under the covers. Still cold, I put the hood up over my head and giggled at how silly I must look. Then I inhaled deeply. His sweatshirt smelled like him, his cologne, his deoderant, him. My heart flip-flopped a bit and I realized I was smiling. I was completely twitterpated with my boyfriend.
Twitterpated: to be completely enamoured with someone; the flighty, exciting feeling you get when you think about/see the object of your affection.

Funny how a love song and a sweatshirt had that effect on me in the middle of the night...but it did. My boyfriend had me downright twitterpated without even knowing it. I rolled over and looked at him, sleeping deeply with his arms behind his head. I snuggled next to him because he's my boyfriend...

...and I'm so glad he married me.

To Aspen, who changed everything... Happy Birthday

2009-05-12T17:21:00.000-07:00

Before you were conceived I wanted you
Before you were born I loved you
Before you were an hour old I would die for you
This is the miracle of a mother's love
(-Maureen Hawkins)

The day your daddy saw the positive pregnancy test and shouted for me to come look was the day our whole world changed.

You see, we had a deep ache for a child, and God, in His unfathomable grace, gave us you.

Tears freely flow because I still can't believe we are celebrating the birthday of our big 3 year old. For years I never thought I'd have a child to celebrate birthdays with. And then there was you. Thank God there was you.

I had a pregnancy. I have a birth story. I got to experience the joy of nursing. I experienced the phenomenon of being more tired than I ever have been in my whole life, yet being so completely peaceful in my heart. I know what it's like to be a mommy, because of you.

Midnight moonlight
Shining through the curtain lace
Paints a perfect picture
On your perfect face
My sweet Aspen sleeping in my arms
You are the promise I knew God would keep
You are the gift that makes my world complete

And you'll never know how much I love you
But I'll keep telling you my whole life through
Now I believe in miracles
and you're the reason why
So dream on while I sing you
Aspen's lullaby
(-original by Reba McIntyre)

Baby girl, you will never understand how much your conception and existence has transformed everything we know about ourselves, about each other, about life in general and about the Lord Himself.

We would have waited 100 years for you.

Happy birthday sweetheart.

Mother's Day, for "reel"

2009-05-11T17:51:00.000-07:00

We have some pretty great moms!

Kelly's mom (with sweet baby Joey)

My mommy (and me)

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

Mother's Day 2009

Yes we are matching! He he he :)

We have had a small fishing boat for a few years now. I told Kelly a few weeks ago that I would like to fish with him more and that I wanted my own fishing pole. So Aspen and daddy got me a pink fishing pole, a purple lure, and a cute baseball hat that says "It's my boat, I just let him drive." Perfect! This does not mean however, that I am ready to take the hook out of the fish's mouth. Ick.

Just for fun, Mother's Day 2008

We drove up to Mt. Bachelor

(look how little Aspen is!)

Hope all you moms had a special day!

She's just not feeling well. At all.

2009-05-04T17:26:00.001-07:00

Please pray for my mom. She has had a rough couple of days. She's struggling with pain and the Dr. is trying some new med. combos to help with it. She's also nauseous, and just plain feeling yucky.

She's not sleeping well either. Even though she's groggy from the meds, she can't get comfortable. And we all know that DEEP sleep is key for the body to heal itself. I remember how awful it was after my c-section to try to get comfortable at night and you can only sleep in one position, and mom's surgery was much more invasive. (I'm still usually uncomfortable at night, but not from major surgery!)

I hate seeing her in pain. I know it's just a season that will be over in a few months, but she's hurting. Please pray.

Thank you friends.

On a lighter note...New Aspenisms!

2009-04-30T17:46:00.000-07:00

-After helping me feed the dog, I said "thank you very much for helping." Aspen replied, "you're welcome, your Majesty."

-Her prayer earlier today: "Thank you for toys, lips, and food."

-After the wedding, our family was hanging out in my Aunt and Uncle's hotel suite. My Uncle had his dress shirt unbuttoned, which of course drew Aspen's attention. She pointed and said "look at Gary's tummy! It's so awesome!"

-I uploaded the wedding pictures to the computer, and had Aspen on my lap as I was looking at them. We came across one of Laura all decked out in her veil and dress and Aspen got so excited and said "Look at her eyebrows! They are sooooo beautiful!"

-Aspen LOVES balloons. A month ago, she had a purple balloon in the car that accidentally slipped out of the open door. She was devastated. Seriously, she cried and cried. The other day she said "My purple balloon will fly away, but a cupcake won't fly away."

-With all the wedding talk lately Aspen is very into all this "getting married" chat. She often will tell me she's going to marry Daddy. (awww!) When I ask her who Mommy will marry, she promptly says, "Grandpa, because he is your Daddy."

-She is so much a Daddy's girl. Not only does she want to marry Daddy, she thinks he can fix anything. Another one of her ill-fated balloons popped one day, and she saved it until Daddy got home from work, and gave it to him saying, "Here Daddy, you can fix it!"

Update, thank you, prayer requests and praise.

2009-04-29T12:52:00.000-07:00

Mom made it through her surgery yesterday with flying colors. The BEST news was that she has NO CANCER in her lymph nodes. That means she doesn't need radiation or chemo and as of right now, she is cancer free! Can I get a "Hallelujah!" :)

The Doctors are hoping to send her home today, but will only do so if her pain is under control. Apparently she had quite a bit of pain in the night and they want to make sure she is more comfortable before letting her leave. She is coming home with some drains in also and has to take it really really slow.

She has a bit of a long recovery ahead of her, which another surgery down the road. Right now she has "extenders" in her chest to stretch out the skin for her new breasts. My aunt had the same thing a few years ago, and it can be quite painful. They are essentially stretching out her skin, tissue and muscle (I think) by adding fluid every couple weeks until she has room for the implants. She was not able to have recontruction. For reconstruction they take tissue from her tummy to make a new chest. My mom doesn't have enough tissue for that (essentially she's too skinny), so the only other option is implants.

Thank you friends and fam for your prayers and offers to help and outpouring of support. It means soooooooo much!

Prayer requests:
For mom- pain will be kept to a minimum, and she will have a smooth transition to home.
For dad- job search
For our church's women's conference this weekend (and that I will be able to share my journey the way God would want me to).

Praise: BFF (and hubby) are adopting a baby!!!! Woo hoo! Can I get another "Hallelujah!"

It's a lot.

2009-04-27T20:02:00.000-07:00

Sister's wedding over. Went awesome. Danced a lot. Paying for it today. Mom has breast cancer. Breast cancer. Found out 2 weeks ago. Double mastectomy tomorrow. We are moving. Within the next month. To a bigger house. Not packed. Dad losing job. Forced out after 14 years of service. Mom doesn't work, doesn't get paid. Dad won't get paid after June. Unresolved health issues for me. More that I don't want to share.

It's a lot. A lot, a lot. Would you pray friends? Just pray.

My mom's shoes at Laura's wedding. They are actually pink, not red. She purchased these shoes months ago, but on Saturday they appropriately were named her "breast cancer shoes."

Aspen and Grammie last Easter. One of my favorite pics.

Matthew 11:28-30
Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.

Chop! Chop!

2009-04-20T13:57:00.000-07:00

I did it. I had to do something. I take a medication for pain that seems to be working a bit better than my last pain medication. It has also completely eliminated the restless legs problems I was having every night!

However, this medication makes me sweat terribly. I have tried other pain meds to no avail. I have to take this specific medication right now.

In order to attempt to combat the sweating (or 'glistening' as my sis puts it), I decided to cut my hair off! It's shorter than it has EVER been. I don't know if I would have cut my hair this short had it not been out of necessity. But, this season of my life has forced me to face reality and do what makes sense. This short hair cut makes sense for me right now, and I AM already more comfortable and not, um, "glistening" quite as much.

What do you think?

(Oh and I got color too)

Easter Pictures

2009-04-15T21:19:00.000-07:00

Could someone tell me who this HUGE girl is?!

I like Lola in this one. Running. Never stops running.

Thanks for looking!

Peace out. (Kip style)

What we woke up to this morning...

2009-04-11T19:42:00.000-07:00

hearing Aspen yelling...

"Mommy, Daddy, I TOOTED! Hahahahahaha!"

It's a bit disturbing how proud she was. :)

A shout out

2009-04-04T12:42:00.000-07:00

Before I forget again, I need to send a shout out of sincere thanks to my friend Julie. I have been such an airhead in communicating this to her, but Julie-you ROCK. Thank you sooooo very much for thinking of my little Aspen and giving us a huge bag of clothes. It is such an extremely generous thing to do and a lovely little surprise to come home to such a treat on our porch! You are very sweet to be so thoughtful and bless us in this way. Those clothes will get a ton of use this summer. We'll have to get the girls together soon to play!

Thank you again. You are a true sweetheart.

A season of fullness.

2009-04-03T20:15:00.000-07:00

We're EXTREMELY busy right now. I kind of broke down at the beginning of this last week because I just did not want to think about or do ANYTHING ELSE. But, the reality is, we are in a season that is busy and time consuming and overwhelming. And I have a choice as to how I'm going to handle it.

When I started praying for strength, I realized that most of the so-called overwhelming things in my life are just so, to put it quite simply, good.

Oh Lord, help me to see the blessings you've given.
Help me to just relish this special time.
Help me to bask in the joy all around me.

So I am trying to be better, and I am overwhelmed, not with the busyness, but the fullness of my life during this season.

These are just a few of the things I was blessed with doing this last week-
-Enjoying the beautiful Oregon coast with close friends
-Seeing my Aspen play with her cousins whom she adores and who adore her
-Laughing so hard with my sister in law that my stomach hurt
-Shopping (need I say more?)
-Making my 6 month old nephew smile and laugh
-Sighing relief due to an answer to prayer regarding a family member
-Hearing that Grandma, at age 91, came through her atrial valve replacement surgery with flying colors.
-Appreciating a dear friend who offered her shoulder to cry on and continued encouragement
-Helping plan the wedding of my youngest sis who is one of my bestest friends

I could go on and on...

Thank you Lord for
A season of Fullness.

A new post! and new Aspenisms...

2009-03-20T18:11:00.000-07:00

Okay okay, I'll start blogging again...as I see fit of course. :)

It seems that a lot of seasoned bloggers are now NOT using there children's real names. I honestly understand the reasoning that many have behind this, and I also know that sometimes in the blog world (and the real world) we just do things because, well, it's the thing to do.

So I have been entertaining myself with ideas of what new cute creative name to call Aspen on my blog. And let me tell you, I have cracked myself up. This is honestly not at all making fun of having "blog names," it's just me being a complete dork. I can't help myself. I'll run a few of my super ideas by you.
Okay...

How about Kitchen Sink? Just imagine the posts, "Today Kitchen Sink was being so much fun!" or "I just love this cute dress on my little Kitchen Sink!" Maybe I could write "hubby and I are so in love with Kitchen Sink that we're hoping to add a Bathroom Sink soon!"

Kelly's suggestion was "El Conquistador." Now Kelly that's just silly. I mean come on. "El Conquistador had her shots today at the doctor. She was a real trooper though."

On to my favorite, supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. What? No good? You don't want to read posts about "New Supercalifragalisticexpialidociousisms"? or hear a story like, "today I took Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious to the park. I met a lady and she asked Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious 'what's your name? Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious was being really shy, so I had to tell this woman 'her name is Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious."'

Alright, I'll stop. As you can see, I can't come up with any clever names for my little Aspen Blythe, so for now we'll just stick to that. After all, it took us years to have the opportunity to even name a child, and we think we picked a pretty perfect one. However, from now on if I refer to Kitchen Sink, El Conquistador, or Supercalifragalisticexpialidocious in a post, you'll know who I mean. :)

************************
*New Aspenisms*

While pretending to order food from a drive through window, she says "I would like some waffle, and cheeseburger, and a doggy please."

While practicing putting on underwear (over her pants), she says "my panties are too slow."

Mommy was in the bathroom. Aspen was in the living room (sans diaper) and I hear her yelling. I know (of course) that this means she's going potty on the floor. She is hysterically shouting "Mommy! My bottom is leaking!!"

Happy Birthday Cathy!

2009-03-03T12:12:00.000-08:00

I hope you have a wonderful day with lots of celebration!

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

I have to include this picture of our kiddos that makes me laugh hysterically every time I see it! I hope it gives you a good giggle too! :)

Aspen reading a bedtime story...

2009-01-21T21:16:00.000-08:00

"Once upon a time, Sleeping Beauty was very nervous."

Thankful Thursday

2009-01-15T10:45:00.001-08:00

Colossians 2: 6-7
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. (NIV)

Today I am thankful for: my mom.

The past few days I have been thinking about this post and although several things came to mind, I wanted to narrow it down to one topic. I just kept coming back to my mom.

A few things I love about her that she has taught me:

1. A quiet strength rooted in faith.

2. A deep appreciation for music.

3. The importance of being a never-ending cheerleader, encourager, and unwavering presence for your children.

I love you mom. I am so thankful to have a best friend and mom all in one. :)

Seriously American Idol!!!

2009-01-13T21:17:00.000-08:00

Why can't American Idol be family show?

Why can't it just be a show about a SINGING contest?

Why do they have to have a 20 MINUTE SEGMENT on a um, sl-(I'll be nice) girl in a bikini? Complete with making her spin and jump...yeah. Soooooo inappropriate!

If they keep this up, we'll say goodbye to AI.

Oh, fabulous! Now they are following it up with a man known as "sexual chocolate." Oh yes, he has the tatoo to prove it.

Grrrr....

New Aspenisms...

2009-01-10T15:38:00.000-08:00

By popular demand...

"Mommy, I can't keep my eyes away."

Translation: Mommy I can't keep my hair out of my eyes.

*****

"Mommy, I want an awful."

Translation: Mommy, I want a waffle

*****
"Mommy, I want hungry"

Translation: Mommy I AM hungry.

*****

"Mommy, where's my sssslower?"

Translation: Mommy, where's my flower?

*****
Random information told to mommy by Aspen-

"Mommy, I want a rainbow."

"Mommy, Lola has a tail."

*****

While leaving the house yesterday Aspen asks, "you put on your coat Mommy?" I say, "yes I'm getting my coat right now. Then she says in a concerned voice "Mommy! Do you have your boo boos?" (her word for boobs)
I assure her, "yes, I have my boo boos." She looks down at her chest and says, "I have my boo boos too."
Daddy feels the need to intercept the conversation and says "No, Aspen you do NOT have boo boos."

*****

The other night after worship practice I was feeling particularly achy after a full day. When we arrived at home, I had some trouble getting out the car in a timely manner to which my sweet husbands shouts, "come on you old lady!" Well, of course Aspen is standing on the porch and turns to me as well and yells "COME OLD LADY!"
Fabulous.

Ok, ok it did make me laugh.

*****
Aspen is naming everyone in her family, and I am helping her. I say "there's Grammie and Grandpa and Grandma Vicki and Grandpa" Aspen thinks for a minute and says, "Grammie, Grandma Vicki, and Grandma Dinosaur RAAAAAAOOOOORRRR!"

*****

Thankful Thursday

2009-01-08T21:39:00.000-08:00

Enter with the password: "Thank you!"
Make yourselves at home, talking praise.
Thank him. Worship him.
Psalm 100:4 The Message

One of my New Year's goals is to be more mindful of how thankful I need to be for many things in my life. Soooo, I'm going to do Thankful Thursday, and list something I am grateful for every Thursday.
I thought this was such an original idea on my part, but upon further blog searching, I am not the first person to have this grand inspiration. Oh well.

Anyhooooooooo,

Today I'm thankful for LAUGHTER!

A fellow giggly friend has told me that I laugh a lot. I've never been told that before, but maybe I do laugh a lot. I do like to laugh. Sometimes all I can do is laugh. There's that song from Mary Poppins, "I love to laugh, ha ha ha ha, long and loud and clear!" And now I'm laughing because I have written the word "laugh" entirely too much for one paragraph!

Kelly's family tends to laugh when they are stressed about something. Not in an inappropriate way, but a way that says, "hey, worrying about this won't help a bit, so let's laugh instead." I have come to really appreciate that attitude and perspective.

You cannot be married to Kelly and not laugh. A lot.

You cannot have a 2 1/2 year old who says the funniest things in the world and not laugh. Like tonight, to the tune of "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star," she sang "Twinkle, Twinkle, Horsey Turtle."

I am so thankful that God created laughter and gave us a sense of humor. It's such an excellent way to release tension and bring down the stress level. Laughter is the BEST medicine after all.

I feel like I should tell a joke or something to make you laugh.

Alright...hmmm...

What do you call stolen cheese?

Nacho cheese.

Aspenism...

2009-01-05T20:32:00.000-08:00

Aspen: Son, SON...oh, sa-uhn!

Daddy: Who is son?

Aspen: Let's find son.

Daddy: Where is son?

Aspen: He's hiding in the bushes.

Daddy: Should we go find him?

Aspen: Yes, let's go tickle him.

Me.

2008-12-17T18:54:00.000-08:00

So, I had a check up at the Dr. on Monday. I am starting a new pain med. and I think that will help my physical quality of life a lot. At least I hope it will. It already seems to be working WAY better than the previous one.

My Dr. suspects I may have sleep apnea... What?! Based on some symptoms I've been having, and the Dr. speaking with Kelly who has confirmed that I appear to stop breathing at times during the night, she decided to send me for a sleep study. I'm not really looking forward to it, but if it provides some answers and helps me sleep better, and in turn have better mornings and days, then I'll do it.

I hate missing out on things because of not feeling well, and I hate having to cancel. So, for those of you who have had extreme patience when I've had to call off plans at the last minute, thank you from the bottom of my heart. One of my deepest fears is that no one will give me a chance anymore. Would I even give me a chance if the situation was reversed? It's a lonely place sometimes.

I don't talk about my health a whole lot, and I never have on this blog before. I don't want to complain, I don't want to be negative, and I don't want to have an unGodly outlook at the portion God has allowed. Although it's a HUGE part of my life, I still don't want my identity to be "that woman with chronic illness." I have learned to live in spite of the pain for the most part. If I was crabby every time I was hurting, well, I'd be crabby most of the time! That's not the person I want to be, that's not the person God made me to be. I know it's hard to understand what's going on with my health...I don't even understand it myself half the time. There are people who don't believe me, and there are those that believe they have a miracle quick fix. I hate disappointing other people...hearing frustration in their voice...seeing annoyance on their faces.

I know this was a random post, but I just needed to talk it out...er, write it out.

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

Pain.

External, internal, gut wrenching, soul bearing, heart throbbing, aching, longing, lonely, misunderstood, betrayed, ignored, shamed, self-loathing, confidience bursting, character questioning, embarrassing, overwhelming, crippling, judging, hurtful, sad, hopeless, empty, relentless, cruel, misunderstood, guilty, back-stabbing.

A savior.

Tear wiping, soul cleansing, heart mending, filling, understanding, loving, gracious, involved, friend, sin erasing, uplifting, embracing, freeing, leading, rest, comforting, safe, hope, peace, faithful, kind, true, just, solid, sweet, accepting, generous, available, ever-lasting.

Healing.

Be still...

2008-12-16T13:52:00.000-08:00

"Be still, and know that I am God."

Psalm 46:10

The heart determines behavior

2008-12-15T11:05:00.000-08:00

I've been reading a really good book called "Shepherding a Child's Heart," by Tedd Tripp. It was recommended to me at my baby shower by Kelly's cousins... and I'm just getting around to reading it!

You know how they say that the two things in life that teach us more about ourselves than anything else are 1) marriage, or 2) having children? Well, reading this "parenting" book has exposed a lot of wisdom about the condition of the human heart. It touches on the basics of a heart wholly surrendered to Christ, and the subsequent behavior that mirrors His righteousness. It is the quest for righteousness that should drive our children's behavior, and OUR behavior.

Here is a small excerpt from the book,

"The heart determines behavior.

Learn, therefore, to work back from behavior to the heart. Expose heart struggles. Help your children see that they were made for a relationship with God. The thirst of the heart can be satisfied in truly knowing God."

Hmmmmm...does MY OWN behavior reflect a heart that loves the Lord? Do I behave in a way that honors Him? Are my words and actions filled with contentment, tenderness, calmness, joy, quietness, patience, kindness, peace, and love? Or are they laced with discontentment, negativity, anger, agitation, dispair, impatience, rudeness, worry, and hate? Do I fake a "righteous" behavior in public, but behave poorly at home with my children and husband? If I have a behavior problem, I have a heart problem.

Godly attributes cannot be faked. They overflow from a heart that is filled with Him. In order to be filled with Him, I have to know Him. I have to expose my heart struggles. I have to surrender my behavior. I have to seek the ultimate heart doctor and allow Him to heal me.

Luke 6:45
The good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good; and the evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth what is evil; for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart.

The words to this song are perfect.

Change my heart oh God,
make it ever true
Change my heart oh God,
may I be like you.

You are the potter,
I am the clay.
Mold me and make me,
this is what I pray.

Wwwwwaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhh!

2008-12-11T13:12:00.000-08:00

Our internet isn't working :(. Soooooo I will only be able to check my email/blog/etc. sporadically until we figure it out.

Won't ya miss me?!

P.S. I am still available by phone or text!

Karyn Sharin' -- Amazon toy sale

2008-12-03T19:00:00.000-08:00

Haven't posted any bargains in a while and with Christmas right around the corner, I thought this may help some of you.

http://www.amazon.com/

They are having their TOY SALE and seriously have some AMAZING deals right now! Orders over $25 are shipped free, if the items you order say "eligible for super saver shipping." (most items qualify)

I think we're getting this for Aspen-

Baby Alive learns to potty- he he he!

Regular price $59.99

Sale price $18.99!!!!
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00160HTUW/ref=ord_cart_shr?%5Fencoding=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&v=glance

My husband wants this...
http://www.amazon.com/Air-Hogs-Havoc-Heli-Colors/dp/B000NSFO3W/ref=pd_mw_t_23?ie=UTF8&s=toys-and-games
(apparently, the age range should be 8 to 34)

Check it out!
Happy Shopping!

Summer blessings

2008-11-25T12:04:00.000-08:00

Oh, the comfort, the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person, having neither to weigh thoughts nor measure words, but pouring them all out, just as they are, chaff and grain together, certain that a faithful hand will take and sift them, keep what is worth keeping, and with a breath of kindness blow the rest away. ~Dinah Craik

The doorbell rang yesterday. I do not answer the door when Kelly isn't home. I peeked out the window and saw the flower delivery van. Hmmmm.... I figured it was a late delivery for Kelly's birthday (why someone would send a man flowers, I don't know). I opened the door and was handed a beautiful arrangement complete with my favorite colored purple ribbon and pot. The card had my name on it! I tore open the card and was immediately moved to tears. My very dear bff sent me flowers, because she knows our life has been a bit more trying lately and she wanted me to know she is thinking of me and there for me. What a blessing. A totally unexpected, but heart warming, blessing.

Thank you Summer, from the bottom of my heart---for the flowers, for the encouragement, for the extra grace, for your kind heart, for your friendship, for everything you've done for me.

LOL

Happy Birthday Kelly!!!

2008-11-20T16:40:00.000-08:00

You're hilarious!

You can fall asleep anywhere.

You enjoy the outdoors, and one of the greatest joys in my life has been watching you be a dad to our little girl. Your love for her melts my heart.

You are my best friend.

You show me in you love me in so many ways.

You kill the spiders. You compliment me. You listen. You understand my heart. You always check when I hear a weird noise at night. You let me shop. You rub my legs when they hurt. You protect me. You fix the covers. You drive carefully when I'm putting my make-up on in the car. You hold me when I cry. You treat me better than I deserve. You take interest in the things I'm passionate about. You don't complain when the house is a mess. You apologize when you're wrong. You work hard. You want my opinion. You pray for me and Aspen. You defend me. You make me laugh all-the-time. You love our families. You get up with Aspen in the night. You sing. You love the Lord.

Happy birthday honey.

I love you and I love the way you love me.

They are new every morning

2008-11-17T12:15:00.000-08:00

"Because of the Lord's great love, we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." Lamentations 3: 22-23

Because of the Lord's kindness I am not done, I am not over, nor completed. HE does not change. His compassion does not cease. His mercies are fresh at the break of day and His stability is abundant.

(The photo is the sunrise outside my front door a few weeks ago)

Um, Aspen, you have lipstick on your teeth...and ALL OVER YOUR FACE!

2008-11-14T11:11:00.000-08:00

See the new header picture? She's done it again! When will I learn that when Aspen is really quiet for more than 2 minutes, it means she's into something?!?! And how come she finds my MAC lipstick and not my wet & wild lipstick? She decided to add some black (MAC) eye liner this time also. Fabulous.

Oh, that little beautiful mess...

Finally home!

2008-11-12T10:00:00.000-08:00

Aspen and I have been gone for 12 days! Although we had a wonderful time with friends and family, we are happy to be home. Shortly after we arrived home late last night, I asked Aspen, "was that a fun trip, punkin?" Aspen replies, "Yes, Karyn."

Could she BEE any cuter?

2008-10-31T10:30:00.000-07:00

Cutest batman Josh

Our worship pastor, rock on!

The best costume ever!

She kept reeling instead of just pulling it up, Daddy was proud.

And the meltdown begins

More meltdown

Meltdown finale

New Aspenisms

2008-10-28T18:18:00.000-07:00

Aspen: Hey, where'd my hair go?

****

Grammie: See Aunt Laura's glasses?

Aspen: I like eyes.

****

Aspen: (toots)

Mommy: Excuse you tooter!

Aspen: Here comes another one!

(she is her father's daughter)

****

Aspen: What's oar name?

Translation: What's your name?

****

Aspen: I want hungry!

Translation: She's hungry.

****

Aspen: Hold you!

Translation: She wants you to hold her.

****

Aspen: Rock you!

Translation: She wants you to rock her.

****

While walking by a window display of wildly painted and decorated cowboy boots, Aspen stops and says "Hey, it's Grammie's shoes!"

****

While shopping in Old Navy, Aspen is playing with a football. She looks at it and says "hey it's Grandpa!" I take the football and turn it over to find she was looking at a picture of a ghost.

Aspen is so much fun right now! And she's so much work right now! She is a busy, chatty, messy little hurricane!

Aspen LOVES to sing and dance. She will talk and talk and talk. Sometimes the words are real, and sometimes they are not. If you say a word while she's chattering away, she will work it into her conversation.

She likes to put diapers on everything. All of her animals and even her ken doll, whom she has affectionately named Marshall, after her cousin, have diapers on.

She lines things up as well. Books, clothes, toys, her food, whatever.

Aspen has discovered the movie Cinderella. We watch it every day.

I love my little girl!

Poor Ken (Marshall)

Road trip! Momma (with kids in tow) Style!

2008-10-23T11:58:00.000-07:00

About a month and a half ago (yes, I am behind), my fantastic friend Amanda invited Aspen and I to join her and her boys on a trek up to Portland. No husbands, lots of active kiddos, two nights in a hotel room, a bunch of chat time, and a ton of fun. The main highlight of our trip was going to the zoo!

Same side snoozers.

Aspen had a bit of trouble settling down for sleeping, because her "fwends" were much more interesting :/

Aspen had to hold J's hand nearly the entire time at the zoo, he was very sweet to oblige.

Little birdies in a nest.

Daddy would have liked this exhibit.

This cracked me up, J was being a "lazy farmer."

Aspen's "fwends."

A grumpy cowgirl.

My cutie pie.

Aspen LOVED the hippos. "Hippo swimming."

The zebra was beautiful.

Aspen and mommy.

Aspen with her outfit inspiration in the background.

Pretty baby.

She may have loved this part more than the hippos!

Totally OUT!

2's.........for fun

2008-10-03T19:52:00.000-07:00

Two names you go by:
1. Monster (that's what Kel calls me :) )
2. Mommy

Two things you are wearing right now:
1. Kelly's shirt
2. My sweatpants

Two things you would want(or have) in a relationship:
1. Grace
2. Love

Two of your favorite things to do:
1. Be with my fam
2. Shop!

Two things you want very badly at the moment:
1. A baby
2. Money (ha ha ha)

Two people who will fill this out:
1. don't know
2. everyone

Two things you did yesterday:
1. marched with Aspen
2. went to Worship practice

Two things you ate yesterday:
1. Peanut Butter (shocker)
2. Cheerios

Two people you last talked to:
1. Amanda
2. Mom

Two things you're doing tomorrow:
1. Going to a baby shower!
2. Getting things ready to sell on ebay

Two Favorite Holidays
1. Christmas
2. St. Patrick's Day (because it's my birthday!)

Favorite beverages:
1. Diet Dr. Pepper
2. Mt. Dew

Two People, no longer alive, who you'd like to talk to:
1. My Grandpa Arensmeier (mom's dad, died before I was born)
2. My Grandpa Nelson (dad's dad, died in 2003)

Just wanted to say...

2008-10-02T22:14:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMANDA!!!

A loyal friend laughs at your jokes when they're not so good, and sympathizes with your problems when they're not so bad.
-Arnold Glasgow

Hope your day was relaxing and full of rejoicefulness! :)

An addition to the Phantom of the Opera post...

2008-09-29T18:03:00.000-07:00

I totally forgot to mention Kelly's one and only problem with our seats at Phantom.

Apparently, the lady sitting in front of him was wearing a perfume that "made his eyelids hurt."

???

The Phantom of the Opera---1998 to 2008

2008-09-29T11:23:00.001-07:00

Kelly and I are celebrating just a small milestone this month...our 10th ANNIVERSARY! I have more to write about that later, but I wanted to share pictures of the amazing gift my family got us.

When Kelly and I were dating, he surprised me with tickets to Phantom of the Opera at the Keller auditorium in Portland. We dressed up, went out to a fancy dinner and drove my dad's nice car (instead of Kelly's no window van). It was an out of the ordinary and very special date for us, and we both LOVED the show.

Fast forward to Labor Day weekend 2008, where we were having lunch with my fam. Kelly had to take Aspen home as she was having an overly tired meltdown. While sitting at the table, I looked down for just a moment. I looked back up to see my parents and sisters holding paper Phantom "masks" over their faces. The tickets were passed to me in a specially made holder designed by my ever-creative sis Jenn. She had even included a seating chart highlighting two seats in the first balcony. We were surprised with a impromptu trip that evening to the Phantom of the Opera, at Keller auditorium. I cried, of course.

We dressed up, went out to a fancy dinner after the show, and drove my dad's nice car! LOL! Of course, this time, childcare for Aspen was necessary, but that too was part of the gift. Our seats were perfect. We were on the end, separated from anyone else by a big pole. I think we enjoyed the show even more, or at least in a different way, than we did 10 years ago. We have a lot more appreciation now for the amazing vocalists. The sets are just incredible, and the actors were stupendous. It was awesome.

So thank you family for such a thoughtful gift!!!

Today Aspen says...

2008-09-24T11:33:00.000-07:00

"I take pockets to Grammie and Grandpa's!"

And I just have to say that she definitely has a Braaten mouth! :)

Karyn Sharin' Old Navy 20% off Sale

2008-09-20T20:33:00.001-07:00

Old Navy sale ends tomorrow Sunday, Sept. 21. The sale is online and in store. It is 20% off everything with the code BFF. (special thanks to one of my bff's for the heads up on this one :) )

In store- tell them the code when you check out
Online- enter code at check out and also receive free shipping!

Check it out! They have some unreal clearance deals. Purchases from online can be returned in store.

http://www.oldnavy.com/browse/home.do?ssiteID=ON#open

BTW, if you get some good deals, tell me about it! I LOVE hearing about other people's bargains :)

And a picture of Aspen, just because.

I'm an AUNT!!! (for the 10th time)

2008-09-16T11:14:00.000-07:00

Joseph Leo Haubrick was born last night!

Joey's mom is Laurie, Kelly's younger sister, and proud daddy is Laurie's hubby David. Joey was a whopping 9 pounds and 14 ounces! Yowza.

Mom and baby (and Daddy) are doing well.

Welcome to the family sweet baby!

(the only photo we have so far is from David's cell)

Labor Day water baby 2007 and 2008

2008-09-15T21:17:00.000-07:00

2007 (15 1/2 months)

2008 (27 1/2 months)

She looks just like her daddy!

2008-09-14T21:59:00.000-07:00

I hear it all the time. What do you think?

(They are going in for a kiss.)

And what's your name?

2008-09-06T13:19:00.000-07:00

Last night we were in downtown Bend for the evening. We are browsing at a shoe store and a sweet older woman is talking to Aspen and telling her how cute she is. Then she asks Aspen, "and what's your name?"
Without hesitation Aspen replies "Eli."

???

Eli is her friend's name :)

Pondering "His Music"

2008-09-03T10:47:00.000-07:00

Last week I posted this excerpt from Max Lucado's book "Traveling Light." As I read over it again, I started thinking about how this particular writing could be taken completely the wrong way. I could take it the wrong way, and so I started thinking about the whole concept and what the author is really saying.

Then my mom asked, "do you feel like this 'silencing' is happening in your life right now?" No, I don't. But, it has happened, I've witnessed it happening to loved ones, and I know it may happen again in my life. Praise God for His detailed love.

Here it is
His music
Oh, how God wants you to hear HIS music. It will race your heart and stir your tears. You want to journey to the stars? He can take you there. You want to lie down in peace? His music can soothe your soul.But first, he's got to get rid of that country-western stuff. (Forgive me Nashville, only an example.) And so he begins tossing the CDs. A friends turns away. The job goes bad. Your spouse doesn't understand. The church is dull. One by one he removes the options until all you have left is God.He would do that??? Absolutely. If he must silence every voice, he will. He wants you to hear his music.
Max Lucado, Traveling Light

It could come across as God being a big ol' bully. Someone who takes away our "CD's" and silences every voice just because He can. Nothing could be further from the truth.

How often do we find ourselves turning to Him AFTER we've exhausted other options. We rely on finding our security and comfort through our spouse, our friends, our family, our job, our church, our children, and the list goes on. Not that these areas cannot be a source of help to us, but when they replace God, we are entering dangerous territory.

God helps us. Period. He uses HIS resources, which can come to us in the above mentioned areas, but if He sees an over-dependence on anything but Him, He may silence it. Why? Because He loves us. Because the peace and joy we will experience when we rely solely on Him surpasses anything we can imagine. His music is the sweetest. But we cannot hear it if we have a bunch of other CD's playing at the same time. We won't concentrate on every soothing note of His song, when we are searching for melodies in other songs. If I am feeling "let down" perhaps it is because, in His grace, He has silenced every other song, to make His song more recognizable. He wants us to hear HIS MUSIC. Listen and enjoy His sweet, sweet song.

For the record, I am sooo thankful for the blessings the Lord has placed in my life...my spouse, my friends, my family, my job, my church, my child, and the list goes on. May this serve as a reminder that He who gave me these blessings is always supreme.

Romans 8: 28 "And we know God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God and to those who are called according to his purpose."

Jeremiah 29: 11 "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'"

Psalm 121: 1-2 "I lift up my eyes to the hills, where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth."

Isaiah 26: 3-4 "You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD, is the Rock eternal."

And, ironically, some songs that I just feel like posting:

How deep the Father's love for us

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n8tUP1R6hPo&feature=related

Refiner's Fire

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idA6fCAHVzs&feature=related

Karyn Sharin' --Walgreen's Coupon

2008-08-28T16:01:00.001-07:00

Walgreen's coupon for in-store only on Friday and Saturday. $10 off a $40 purchase.

Redeemable for photo purchases too!

http://www.walgreens.com/hotbuys/default.jsp?ec=hn583_getcoupon

His music

2008-08-27T22:48:00.000-07:00

Oh, how God wants you to hear HIS music. It will race your heart and stir your tears. You want to journey to the stars? He can take you there. You want to lie down in peace? His music can soothe your soul.
But first, he's got to get rid of that country-western stuff. (Forgive me Nashville, only an example.) And so he begins tossing the CDs. A friends turns away. The job goes bad. Your spouse doesn't understand. The church is dull. One by one he removes the options until all you have left is God.
He would do that??? Absolutely. If he must silence every voice, he will. He wants you to hear his music.

Max Lucado, Traveling Light

She can change diapers!!!

2008-08-26T21:17:00.001-07:00

Here's Aspen and her beloved baby Stella. She worked for a good 10 minutes putting this diaper on Stella. And finally, success! She held Stella up and the diaper stayed on. She was proud and loudly proclaimed "Look! Stella diaper!!!"
So, the diaper isn't very functional as it's not covering the, um, right parts, but at least now she is SUPER STELLA da da da da DA DA!

Karyn Sharin'

2008-08-20T22:49:00.001-07:00

This is something new I've been wanting to add to my blog. If you know me, you know my interests include shopping, fashion, make-up, decorating, etc. etc. etc. I love bargains and sales. When I come across something good in one of these areas I want to tell everyone about it. Soooooooo, I am going to start doing "Karyn Sharin'" in which I will "share" good finds, tips, and advice in the above mentioned categories. Hope you like it! :)

This is the logo I will use every time I post something like this.

Old Navy jeans sale

2008-08-20T22:38:00.001-07:00

Here's the rumor...

Old Navy is having a "mystery sale" this Saturday only.

All regular priced men's and women's jeans will be $12 (regular $29.50) and boy's and girl's jeans (regular $19.50) will be $7.

UPDATE! IT IS TRUE!

And it's online too.

Here's the link: http://www.oldnavy.com/browse/category.do?cid=42369

The fairest of them all...

2008-08-15T10:33:00.000-07:00

The first weekend in August is Deschutes County fair time. This year Aspen was old enough to enjoy some of the festivities!

First, the little Redmond parade downtown on Saturday morning. She was a little unsure of all the LOUD sirens and horns, but seemed happy to get a ball and a sucker! It was fun to see some friends in the parade.

Second, we went to the fair Saturday night. Aspen loved all the animals and practicing the sounds they make. My favorite was a HUGE fluffy rooster ironically named "tinkerbell." Then we went to the rodeo, which was packed! We couldn't find a seat but ended up actually standing pretty close to the action, which was really cool (and scary).

Third, our most favorite, was the Buckaroo Breakfast on Sunday morning. This has been around for dozens of years. My mom's side of the family has been attending for ages. This was our third year at the breakfast and definitely not our last. The food is fabulous, and the atmosphere is fun. Our not so small town feels like a warm, friendly little community. Cowboy hats, boots, and big buckles are the norm, rather than the exception. Musicians play country favorites, while local volunteers serve a delicious hearty breakfast consisting of sausage, pancakes, hashbrowns, eggs, bacon, and fry bread- my favorite! People waiting in line respond to a woman yelling "yee" with an enthusiastic "HAW!"
Ahhhhhh...I love it. It's become a family tradition for us and it's safe to say that we will try to go every year, even if we end up moving away from central Oregon someday.
I have a picture of Aspen every year now at the breakfast. I'll have to dig out the photos from the last two years.
I cannot wait until next year! :)

Big white sunglasses are the coolest!

Scored a football and a sucker at the parade

Watching the parade with Grammie

All done!

Yay! Fair time!

She liked the kids - ha ha!

Um...you've got a little something hanging out of your mouth

Buckaroo Breakfast time

Cute lil buckaroo!

Aspen's 2nd "cupcake" birthday party!

2008-08-06T11:18:00.001-07:00

Due to many requests...I'm finally getting around to posting pictures from Aspen's 2nd birthday party that we had in mid-May. I decided to do a cupcake theme, and had so much fun putting it together. The main activity was decorating cupcakes, which seemed to be a hit! It was an awesome day and we enjoyed celebrating our daughter with our family and friends.
I still can't believe my little Cupcake Cutie is 2!!!

Snowman?

2008-07-31T11:34:00.000-07:00

So, I've been getting Aspen's clothes from last fall and winter ready to sell on ebay. I've tried a lot of things on her lately to see what fits and what can be sold. Every time I put a coat or a sweater on her this is what she says.

"Oh, snowman"

????

One of THOSE days...

2008-07-29T17:49:00.000-07:00

It's just been one of those days. I don't feel well physically, mentally, or emotionally. I feel a little bit spiritually fatigued. I know I'll probably be better tomorrow, but today is, well, kinda yucky. Chronic illness has a way of being discouraging sometimes. I think I handle it pretty well most of the time, I really try to. But today I'm weary and frustrated with the widespread effect of this part of my life.

Usually, I try to blog about uplifting things, but today I'm just being real and transparent. And I'm ok with that. I'm in a funk.

Off to read my Bible...

Peace

2008-07-23T20:30:00.000-07:00

"Peace is the ability to wait patiently in spite of the panic brought on by uncertainty."
-Chuck Swindoll

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14: 27

2008-07-19T20:34:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we spent the afternoon at Lake Billy Chinook with my sister Jenn and her hubby Ben. It ended up being quite an eventful trip... I don't feel like going into detail so if you haven't heard the story ask me sometime.

Anyway, here are some pics from before all the chaos!

We rock the big shades.

Neat rocks.

Kelly caught a fish on Aspen's BARBIE pole!

Aspen's not too fond of fish up close.

Barbie pole catches another.

Kissy kissy.

I put my finger in it's mouth! (ew)

Ben is wondering why the Barbie pole is catching the most fish.

I'm done with pictures mommy.

Beautiful sunset skyline over Billy Chinook.

The honda has been excavated.

2008-07-17T14:10:00.000-07:00

Well, most of you know Kelly totalled the honda this morning right after he left for work. He ran into a huge excavator machine that was sitting partially in his lane. The excavator was sitting stationary facing oncoming traffic. The tree over the excavator (which is what was being removed) and the way the sun was shining impaired Kelly's sight and he didn't see it until the last second! There were not any flaggers, cones, etc. warning of machinery in the roadway. The police have faulted the excavator and the company, but we still have a lot to work out.

Praise God that Kelly only has mild injuries. It could have been A LOT worse. He initially had the wind knocked out of him and gasped for air for a few seconds. (That scared him!) The entire glove box came flying out of the dash upon impact. Good thing no one was in the passenger seat. Kelly sprained his right elbow and arm, and cut up his index finger, and is really banged up and sore.

And praise God for the small things...a friend who lived right by the accident site and came immediately to support Kelly (thanks Michael), the police officer assigned as being one Kelly knew through a training they had together a few years ago, towing that was free (thanks to Ryan), a friend to look after Aspen while I took Kelly to the Dr.(thanks Kristen), legal help (thanks to Laura and her attorney boss), and absolutely amazing and caring friends and family who have offered their immediate prayers, concern and support. Even the hospital volunteer at the entrance to the ER (where we went for x-rays) was a familiar face from our church family. God has been so evident in all the details.

I lost it temporarily at Worship practice tonight...just singing about praising the Lord...and praising the Lord in prayer for his protection...well, it just caused my heart to overflow with emotion. The reality of what COULD have happened hit me. Our God spared Kelly's life today, as he has everyday thus far, but today we were loudly reminded how fragile our life on this earth is. I'm extremely thankful tonight for the Lord's tender care.

Unrealted to the car accident, Kelly broke his pinky toe. Right before we were leaving the house to go to the Dr., he stubbed it on the door jam. He also has a banged up leg (see last picture) from sliding in softball last night and has cleat marks from where the 3rd baseman stepped on him. He's kind of a mess. The nurse suggested I wrap him in bubble wrap. :)

You can kinda see the beginning of the brusing of the seatbelt marks.

I'm not really sure what the other big line is! LOL

Good ol' church softball injuries.

Sweet baby (yes, she's still our baby)

2008-07-16T22:54:00.000-07:00

Girls- please raise your big toe and repeat after me!

2008-07-15T18:17:00.000-07:00

The Open Toed Shoe Pledge:

As a member of the Cute Girl Sisterhood, I pledge to follow the Rules when I wear sandals and other open-toe shoes:

I promise to always wear sandals that fit. My toes will not hang overand touch the ground, nor will my heels spill over the backs. And the sides and tops of my feet will not pudge out between the straps.

I will go polish-free or vow to keep the polish fresh, intact andchip-free.I will not cheat and just touch up my big toe.I will sand down any mounds of skin before they turn hard and yellow.I will shave the hairs off my big toe.

I won't wear pantyhose even if my misinformed girlfriend, coworker,mother, sister tells me the toe seam really will stay under my toes ifI tuck it there.

If a strap breaks, I won't duct-tape, pin, glue or tuck it back intoplace hoping it will stay put. I will get my shoe fixed or toss it.I will not live in corn denial; rather I will lean on my good friendDr. Scholl's if my feet need him.

I will resist the urge to buy jelly shoes at Payless for the low, lowprice of $4.99 even if my feet are small enough to fit into the kids'sizes. This is out of concern for my safety, and the safety of others.No one can walk properly when standing in a pool of sweat and I wouldhate to take someone down with me as I fall and break my ankle.

I will take my toe ring off toward the end of the day if my toes swelland begin to look like Vienna sausages.

I will be brutally honest with my girlfriend/sister/coworker when sheasks me if her feet are too ugly to wear sandals. Someone has to tellher that her toes are as long as my fingers and no sandal makes creepyfeet look good.

I will promise if I wear flip flops that I will ensure that theyactually flip and flop, making the correct noise while walking and Iwill swear NOT to slide or drag my feet while wearing them.

I will promise to go SOMEWHERE at least once per season and have a real pedicure (they are about $20-30 and worth EVERY penny).

I will promise to throw away any white/off-white sandals that showsigns of wear...nothing is tackier than dirty white sandals..

Don't keep this to yourself - pass it on to other sisters, ladies, and female friends.

(I didn't write this...and I need a pedicure myself ASAP!)

On my mind...

2008-07-11T10:43:00.000-07:00

Amanda- Thank you so, so, so much for your help yesterday!

Summer-I'm praying for you, thinking about you, nervous for you, and excited for you...

That's all for now.

July 4th celebration-part 2

2008-07-08T19:57:00.000-07:00

Our afternoon consisted of some quality time with the Cordero fam (before they leave us!) The kids played and swam and we all enjoyed a yummy bbq! It was a wonderful day.

Cutie patooties!

The babies "noodling" around

When it finally got dark, we started our own little fireworks show. Aspen wasn't too sure of them though...

Cathy was really into the sparklers!

Pretty Emma.

Will had the time of his life.

Aspen finally ventured out of the garage.

They like fire a little too much.

SMOKIN!

July 4th celebration-part 1

2008-07-08T17:22:00.000-07:00

We spent the morning of July 4th downtown Bend having some good old fashioned, not so-small-town-anymore, fun. The annual pet parade is a favorite of ours. Anyone can be in it.

There were all sorts of dogs with their owners proudly showing them off. Tons and tons of BOONS and BUBBOS (balloons and bubbles). A sea of red, white, and blue. Lots of dressed up kiddos riding their decorated bikes. A few cats. Pretty horses with their hooves painted sparkly pink. A bunch of random costumes like wonder woman and a large green frog costume that scared poor Aspen. And of course, it would not be a Central Oregon parade without goats and cows, yes cows.

Then we were off to the park to browse through different vendor booths and enjoy the music of the gospel choir. Aspen really has some sweet dance moves.

On Aunt Jennie's shoulder...with lips sticking out.

Feeling the music at the park.

Resting on daddy's shoulders.

Best seat in the house. Watching the pet parade.

part 2 coming soon!

His eye is on the sparrow

2008-07-02T23:37:00.000-07:00

I feel the need to explain why I posted this...since no one commented! :)

You will see me posting the lyrics to songs quite often. Both Kelly and I find much encouragement and solace in the God-inspired lyrics of many songs. His Eye is on the Sparrow is an oldie, but a goodie. I just love some of the words. I highlighted my favorite parts.
********

Why should I feel discouraged, why should the shadows come,
Why should my heart be lonely, and long for heav’n and home,
When Jesus is my portion?
My constant Friend is He:
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.

I sing because I’m happy, I sing because I’m free,
For His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.

“Let not your heart be troubled,” His tender word I hear,
And resting on His goodness, I lose my doubts and fears;
Though by the path He leadeth, but one step I may see;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.

Whenever I am tempted, whenever clouds arise,
When songs give place to sighing, when hope within me dies,
I draw the closer to Him, from care He sets me free;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.

Happy Birthday Aunt Jennifer!!!

2008-06-30T19:59:00.001-07:00

Me and Jen

Jen and Ryan (Kelly's brother)

Aunt Jen and Aspen

Today is Jen's birthday!
Jen, I'm so glad God brought you into my life. You are a strong and beautiful woman who has taught me a lot. Your love for your husband, your children, and your God is inspiring. You have been such a prayer warrior for Kelly and I (and Aspen!). We started out as family through marriage and thankfully have become friends and sisters over the years.
HOPE YOU HAD A GREAT DAY!!!

Face paint/make-up

2008-06-25T19:19:00.000-07:00

Last week several shops and vendors hosted an evening of shopping, music, food and entertainment near downtown. It was simple, but a nice "small town" atmosphere. I think they are going to do it every third Wednesday evening through the summer months for those of you interested in attending.

Anyway, Aspen had her face painted. She was hilarious. The girl sat so still for what I think she thought was "make-up." She would turn her face up and let the lady paint on both cheeks. Then she kept going back for more. Such a silly girl!

Aspen's first fishing trip!

2008-06-20T11:25:00.001-07:00

Tuesday evening we decided to take Aspen out on the boat for the first time. Haystack Reservoir is only 15 minutes away. She LOVED it! She is daddy's girl for sure! It was amazing to see her acting so natural around the water and in the boat. She even held her (barbie) fishing pole like a pro! Daddy taught her how to reel and she doesn't quite get the concept of holding the pole in one hand and reeling with the other, but I know daddy will make sure she has LOTS of practice!

The start of daddy and I fishing together for years to come.

Holding my pole over the water like a pro!

Our Pretty Baby.

He's in heaven!

The moon near Smith Rock on the way home was gorgeous!

Father's day hike at the Deschutes River trail

2008-06-19T18:08:00.001-07:00

A father's day tribute to the men in my life

2008-06-17T09:35:00.000-07:00

Aspen and I were fortunate enough to spend Father's Day with 2 of our 3 favorite guys. We didn't get to be with Grandpa Ron (Kelly's dad) in person, but we thought of him with lots of love.

I am so blessed to have grown up with a wonderful father, who was and still is, strong, supportive, encouraging, wise and respectable. His girls have really fostered a soft spot in his heart and he is always there if we need him. I have enjoyed seeing him become a grandpa. He is naturally good at it, and his face lights up whenever he sees his granddaughter. She is pretty fond of him too!

When Kelly and I married, I gained an additional father, Ron, who accepted and loved me unconditionally right from the start. He is patient, hard-working, and helpful. Kel has a lot of the same qualities I love about Ron. Much of the wonderful man Kelly has become is thanks to his father.

And then there is Kelly, and I have experienced some of the greatest joy of my life by watching him be a daddy. The first night in the hospital when Aspen was born, we woke up for a middle of the night feeding. Kelly held her after she was fed, and tears streamed down his face. He looked at me and whispered, "She is awesome. I already love her so much."
I love seeing him grow as a father and find it endearing that he already wants to protect her from boys. It's amazing that a man who kills game animals for sport can be melted into a tender, sweet pile of mush when he's talking to his little girl.

The Notebook

2008-06-14T23:19:00.001-07:00

Will I ever be able to watch this movie without bawling my eyes out?

Strength

2008-06-13T11:26:00.000-07:00

Yet those who wait for the LORD
Will gain new strength;
They will mount up with wings like eagles,
They will run and not get tired,
They will walk and not become weary.

Isaiah 40:31

In my daughter's eyes...

2008-06-11T09:37:00.000-07:00

In my daughter's eyes I am a hero
I am strong and wise and I know no fear
But the truth is plain to see
She was sent to rescue me
I see who I wanna be
In my daughter's eyes

In my daughter's eyes everyone is equal
Darkness turns to light and the
world is at peace
This miracle God gave to me
gives me strength when I am weak
I find reason to believe
In my daughter's eyes

And when she wraps her hand
around my finger
It puts a smile in my heart
Everything becomes a little clearer
I realize what life is all about

It's hangin' on when your heart
has had enough
It's giving more when you feel like giving up
I've seen the light
It's in my daughter's eyes

In my daughter's eyes I can see the future
A reflection of who I am and what will be
Though she'll grow and someday leave
Maybe raise a family
When I'm gone I hope you see how happy
she made me
For I'll be there
In my daughter's eyes

(Martina McBride)

Hair today, gone tomorrow.

2008-06-06T22:53:00.000-07:00

Well I did it. I CHOPPED my hair off. Ok, I paid someone to chop it off. My hair was making me hot, and I don't mean "sexy" hot, I mean sweating like a pig hot. Lovely, I know. Most of you know I have to take a medication that makes my internal temperature sky rocket, so I cannot stand my hair laying on my neck and back. I was tired of wearing it in a ponytail.
It's definitely not on my neck now! EEK!

It's such a big change. I've never ever had my hair this short. Kelly says he really likes it, but he's still getting used to something so different. I really do love it! I think.

New Aspenisms

2008-06-03T20:31:00.001-07:00

Daddy: Aspen do you know where your shoes are?

Aspen: (while tilting her head) Ummmmmmmm.......nope.

*****

Aspen: (holding up a skirt) What's that?

Mommy: That is a skirt.

Aspen: Oh, cuuuute! Amazing.

*****

Aspen: (watching Grandpa walk away) JOHN! JOHN, COME EAR! (come here) GRAMPAAAA!

*****

Aspen: Ag-ez

Translation: Glasses

*****

Aspen: Chaulk-it

Translation: Chocolate

*****

Aspen: (while playing with my old barbies) NO BOOBIES! NO BOOBIES! NO BOOBIES!

Translation: Barbie's dress has fallen down and she is now showing her boobies and it makes me mad!

*****
Aspen's favorite song right now: "You are my shunshine."

Calm my anxious heart

2008-06-02T10:25:00.001-07:00

LOVE this book by Linda Dillow. It's all about women and their struggle with, and desperate need for, contentment.

Just a few quotes from the book rolling around in my head today...

"What we are on the inside, what we continually think about, eventually shows in our words, actions, and even on our countenances."

and another quote about perspective...

"Two women peered through prison bars, one saw stars, the other saw mud."

And finally some passages that sum up the entire principle of the book. Although there is controversy at times over The Message and it's accurate translation, I am fond of the way these particular verses are explained.

Philippians 4:8-9 (The Message)

Summing it all up, friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.

Silly bubbles.

2008-05-30T08:56:00.000-07:00

This is Aspen's version of smiling when you're taking a picture! What a goof! Kelly thinks she looks like Michelle Tanner from Full House in this pic.

Aspen LOVES "bubbo's" Thank you Kuhlman's for the bubble maker!

Sweet kicks from Uncle Benny and Aunt Jennie.

Attempt at a picture with Uncle Benny and Aunt Jennie. Aspen? Hello...?

Rain drops fallin' on my head!

2008-05-28T11:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had a HUGE rain storm. It hardly ever rains here, but yesterday was a doozy! Big ol' raindrops, hail, thunder, black sky...the works! So, it was the perfect day to pull out our first pair of rainboots. Aspen decided to test out their mud puddle jumping ability in the Target parking lot. We were the silly parents standing by encouraging her to jump and splash while snapping pictures. HA!

Turns out the rainboots are a hit with Aspen. She put them on all by herself (on the wrong feet) this morning. Hmmm...shoes she can put on all alone...mommy likes this idea! She's pretty cute in her mismatching jammies and her new favorite boots.

Just another day in Paradise

2008-05-25T21:35:00.000-07:00

The kids screaming, phone ringing
Dog barking at the mailman bringing
That stack of bills - overdue
Good morning baby, how are you?
Got a half hour, quick shower
Take a drink of milk but the milk's gone sour
My funny face makes you laugh
Twist the top on and I put it back
There goes the washing machine
Baby, don't kick it.
I promise I'll fix it
Long about a million other things

Well, it's ok. It's so nice
It's just another day in paradise
Well, there's no place that
I'd rather be
Well, it's two hearts
And one dream
I wouldn't trade it for anything
And I ask the Lord every night
For just another day in paradise

Friday, you're late
Guess we'll never make our dinner date
At the restaurant you start to cry
Baby, we'll just improvise
Well, plan B looks like
Dominoes' pizza in the candle light
Then we'll tippy toe to our room
Make a little love that's overdue
But somebody had a bad dream
Mama and daddy
Can me and my teddy
Come in to sleep in between?

Yeah it's ok. It's so nice.
It's just another day in paradise.
Well, there's no place
that I'd rather be
Well, it's two hearts
And one dream
I wouldn't trade it for anything
And I ask the Lord every night
For just another day in paradise

Well, it's ok. It's so nice.
It's just another day in paradise.
Well, there's no place thatI'd rather be
Two hearts
And one dream
I wouldn't trade it for anything
And I ask the Lord every night
For just another day in paradise

For just another day in paradise
Well, it's the kids screaming.
The phone ringing
Just another day
Well, it's Friday.
You're late

So, here it is. One of our favorite songs. Why? Well, first of all, because I'm pretty much convinced that Phil Vassar spied on us and wrote this song. :) Second of all, I love this song because it is about contentment and perspective. Finding contentment and even (gasp) joy in the midst of any circumstance. This is a lifelong struggle for most, it definitely is a struggle for us. It takes a concerted effort to focus on the positive and not the negative. But, the reality of our life is that most days it's just plain a mess. Things go wrong. People dissapoint. But it's in that mess that we cry out to a God who fixes the broken places, a God who grants peace that passes understanding, and a God who shows us how to be not dependent on the outward. Those moments with God produce the most beautiful thing---contentment, joy, happiness, peace, and strength.
And that my friends is where we find ourselves in paradise on earth. A true state of bliss and delight. Thus the title for this blog: A beautiful mess, a glimpse into our very own paradise. This blog is us, and I am mostly writing it for us. I want a written account of these times in our life. A time when we go through hardship after hardship and learn to see how truly beautiful and blessed our life is. A time where we change our perspective to believe that we can delight in what God is doing right here and right now, in the midst of a mess. It's really quite beautiful. You are welcome to read and comment if you'd like.

Oh yeah, it's just another day in paradise.

(You can listen to the song on the player below)

A Beautiful Mess

Jumping back in- New Aspenisms

Happy Birthday Kelly!!

Here I am...kinda...

Guard your heart...

Happy Birthday Dad!!!!!!!!!!!!

In the bath...

I am NOT...

Prayers for Mom: last surgery tomorrow!

Video of Aunt Laura and Aunt Jennie finding out about baby #2

Just in case you haven't heard our great news...

Tickled pink...A shower to remember...Moriah and Summer

We wanna get married again and go down the aisle with style!!

Our Fourth of July 2009

Sweet little Moriah Lynn is here!!! *Added picture!*

Dancing makes her happy

Another sooooooooo...

Soooooooo...

New Aspenisms!

New Aspenisms

There are moments...

My boyfriend's song & sweatshirt

To Aspen, who changed everything... Happy Birthday

Mother's Day, for "reel"

She's just not feeling well. At all.

On a lighter note...New Aspenisms!

Update, thank you, prayer requests and praise.

It's a lot.

Chop! Chop!

Easter Pictures

What we woke up to this morning...

A shout out

A season of fullness.

A new post! and new Aspenisms...

Happy Birthday Cathy!

Aspen reading a bedtime story...

Thankful Thursday

Seriously American Idol!!!

New Aspenisms...

Thankful Thursday

Aspenism...

Me.

Be still...

The heart determines behavior

Wwwwwaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhh!

Karyn Sharin' -- Amazon toy sale

Summer blessings

Happy Birthday Kelly!!!

They are new every morning

Um, Aspen, you have lipstick on your teeth...and ALL OVER YOUR FACE!

Finally home!

Could she BEE any cuter?

New Aspenisms

Road trip! Momma (with kids in tow) Style!

2's.........for fun

Just wanted to say...

An addition to the Phantom of the Opera post...

The Phantom of the Opera---1998 to 2008

Today Aspen says...

Karyn Sharin' Old Navy 20% off Sale

I'm an AUNT!!! (for the 10th time)

Labor Day water baby 2007 and 2008

She looks just like her daddy!

And what's your name?

Pondering "His Music"

Karyn Sharin' --Walgreen's Coupon

His music

She can change diapers!!!

Karyn Sharin'

Old Navy jeans sale

The fairest of them all...

Aspen's 2nd "cupcake" birthday party!

Snowman?

One of THOSE days...

Peace

The honda has been excavated.

Sweet baby (yes, she's still our baby)

Girls- please raise your big toe and repeat after me!

On my mind...

July 4th celebration-part 2

Sweet little Moriah Lynn is here!!! Added picture!