Shannon & Jodi's Proverbs

Thankful Thursday

2012-02-17T12:28:00.001-06:00

Although it's not Thursday, I'm going to do my Thankful Thursday post anyway. It's my blog. I get to make the rules. So there.

I am thankful~
~for the warmer weather today. The kids have been outside playing basketball. We call that P.E.
~for Leftover Friday. No cooking for me, and the fridge gets cleaned out.
~that I "re-learned" how to crochet this week. It had been 20 years since I had crocheted. Colton and Katie are learning with me. Naomi is trying, but her hands just don't seem big enough to manage the hook and yarn.
~for my family.
~for the desire (if not motivation) to get some closets and rooms organized this weekend.
~that Monday is President's Day, so we have NO SCHOOL!
~that the Rebels won their basketball game last night. Next game: Tuesday.
~for my new mop. I just need to use it more often :)
~for Pinterest.
~for my teenagers. They're fun to have around.
~for my middles. They're fun to have around.
~for my littles. They're fun to have around.
~for Shannon. He's fun to have around.

"The words of a man's mouth are deep waters; the wellspring of wisdom is a flowing brook." Proverbs 18:4

Thankful Thursday

2012-02-02T23:45:00.000-06:00

I have so many things to be thankful for today. Here's the short list:

I am thankful:

~that my bills are paid.
~that I have groceries in my house.
~that my family is healthy.
~that Shannon and Jackson fixed my washing machine.
~that I am done with Level 2 of the Shred. It was a killer. Level 3 seems easier.
~that the Shanks can be comforted by many, many prayers. Their daughter, Brenna, went to be with Jesus today. Please continue to pray for them.
~that all of four of our varsity basketball games are at home this week.
~that Bryce is done with middle school basketball. His team was undefeated again this season.
~that we have had a very mild winter (so far).
~that Katie had a nice birthday. I'm hoping to post pictures soon.
~for our dog, Checkers. He loves me.
~for the opportunity to have our youth group over for the Super Bowl on Sunday. It's been awhile.
~that tomorrow is Friday!

"Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life." Proverbs 4:23

Thankful Thursday

2012-01-26T23:38:00.000-06:00

Thursday is almost over, so I'd better get moving on my post for today.

Today I am thankful:
~that I can put out a plea for prayer for little Brenna Shank and her family. Brenna had heart surgery last week, and is struggling coming off the ECMO.
~that I can pray for Michael's family. Michael went to be with the Lord today. He was 14 years old.~that I can hug my babies goodnight.
~that Chase had the confidence to try.
~that Alex is happy at Faith.
~that my children get along well together (most of the time).
~for family.
~for my kindle fire. It makes being without my laptop bearable.
~for a clean bedroom.
~for my godly husband.

"Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice with the wife of your youth." Proverbs 5:18

Thankful Thursday

2012-01-19T10:25:00.000-06:00

Today I am thankful that...

~my laptop is still under warranty. Macklin dumped my tea in it this morning.

~Chase is letting me borrow his laptop to blog.

~the sun is shining.

~we have warm coats, hats, and mittens.

~we are healthy.

~Alex likes his new classes this semester.

~Shannon found a tractor.

~we belong to a bible-believing church.

~God answers prayers.

~Macklin is physically capable of climbing on the table. Even though it's really getting on my nerves.

~lots and lots of people are praying for Brenna Shank. Keep the prayers coming!

"He also taught me and said to me: 'Let your heart retain my words; Keep my commands and live'." Proverbs 4:4

October 2011 Recap

2012-01-17T08:30:00.000-06:00

You guessed it. October started with football, and ended with football. We had lovely fall weather, so it was especially nice going to games.

Alex's soccer season continued throughout October, too. We enjoyed the opportunity to see him so often. It took the sting of him leaving home and made it so much easier.

On October 16, our family was enjoying a typical Sundayafternoon. We had finished watching Colton play hisfinal tackle football game of the season. Shannon headed to church for a meeting prior to the evening serviceat 6:30. Jackson, Chase, Colton and I drove a couplemiles from home to celebrate Colton's season with an impromptu football pizza partywith some of the other players. Alex was home visiting from college, and stayed with the youngerkids.

We left the pizza party at 6:00,drove the two miles home, and pulled into the driveway. The other children were outside playing, andwere ready to leave for church. I gotout of my parents van, which I had been driving. Alex came out of the house and got into thevan because he was going to drive it back to college. He haddecided to come home with us following his soccer game the previous day in Dubuque. We were planning to drive to Ankenyto see his soccer game on Monday, so my parents said he could drive their vanback to school, and they would drive it home after his game, saving us the tripthere and back after church Sunday evening. Hudsonasked if he could ride to church with Alex. I said sure and buckled him into the rear passenger seat of theminivan. They headed off to church.

Without even going into the house, the other seven childrenand I loaded up in our van. Katie ran back into the house and grabbed a sippy cup for Macklin. We headed out the drive andmade the six mile trip north to church. As we pulled into the church parking lot and unloaded from the van, Iheard the sirens from the hospital across the street. Often times I will say a prayer for those inneed as I hear the siren. On thisparticular day, I did not. It justdidn't even occur to me.

We were a few minutes early (very uncommon!), so I stood inthe fellowship hall visiting with some of the other teens. My cell phone rang, and the screen said itwas Alex. That was when Irealized that he and Hudson should have beaten us to church because they leftbefore we did. He immediately told me hehad been in an accident and had crashed the van. I asked him where he was, and he said he wassouth of town and had lost control on the gravel and gone into the ditch. I grabbed Jacksonand told Alex we would be rightthere. It wasn't until then that Iremembered Hudson was withhim. When I asked how they were, Alex saidhe was fine, but Hudson had a cuton his face.

As Jackson and I left the church, I spoke with a man in theparking lot and asked him to find Shannon and have him meet us atthe accident site. Then I called Alexback and told him we were on our way. Hesaid the ambulance was there already, so we should just meet them at thehospital. We went directly to thehospital, and had to wait about 15-20 minutes for them to arrive. We were able to contact Shannon,and he met us at the ER.

I was not prepared for what I saw when the ambulancearrived. Hudsonwas wheeled in first. His face wasbloody and swollen. He was in a cervicalcollar. He was strapped down onto thegurney. There were many EMTs, doctorsand nurses surrounding him, all talking at once. They would not let us see himimmediately. I was SO close to breakingthrough those doors!

Alex was able to walk in on his own. They conducted a physical exam on him, and hewas cleared fairly quickly, with only a superficial scratch on his arm from theair bag. Hudsonwas on the opposite side of the curtain from Alex, so we could hear part ofwhat they were saying. We were onlyexpecting Hudson to need somestitches. The more we heard, the morescared we became. He was in and out ofconsciousness. He had one large pupil,one small, and they were not responsive to light. His left eye was swollen shut and he had multiplelacerations on his face. It wasdetermined that he needed to be intubated since he was losing consciousness andhe had swelling in his neck. It took them 6 attempts and 40 minutes to intubate him. He wasX-rayed to make sure the tube was in the correct place.

We were informed that they had called the University of IowaHospitals and were going to transfer Hudsonvia life flight helicopter. We wouldneed to drive ourselves there. At thispoint I called across the street and asked our pastor to spread the word andbegin praying for our boys. AlthoughAlex was physically okay, he was quite emotional about the accident and feltresponsible.

I had called my parents and they drove over to deal with thevan and be with us. The sheriff deputymet my dad at the scene of the accident. Alex had lost control on the gravel and entered the ditch. It was quite steep at that particularspot. The van then collided with a concreteculvert, skipped over it, and landed in a creek. The driver's airbag deployed, saving Alexfrom serious injury. Hudsonwas thrown forward, colliding with the hard plastic hand hold on the back ofthe front passenger seat, typical in many minivans. Alex's door wouldn't open, so he had to climbagainst gravity through the side van door, and jump down about four feet intothe creek. He thought he saw smoke inthe van, so he unbuckled Hudson andremoved him from the van. As he climbedup the ditch, a man in an SUV stopped to help him. He was on his way to church in the same townwe attend church, and he is an EMT. Hehelped Alex call 911, since Alex's phone kept dropping the call as hedialed. Another lady, also a former EMT,came upon the accident from the opposite direction. They immediately immobilized Hudsonand applied traction to his neck. Wewere told later that Alex did an incredible job staying calm, and comfortinghis brother.

Back at the hospital, we were making arrangements for our otherchildren, who were still at church. Fortunately, we had gassed up the car earlier that day. I found comfort in the details ofplanning. It was such a surrealexperience. I remember our pastor prayingover Hudson with the EMTs, nursesand doctors praying right along with us as they artificially breathed for Hudson. At onepoint I looked at Shannon and told him I didn't think Icould do this. Things like this don'thappen to our family. Shannonheld me and told me we really didn't have a choice. We just had to deal with it and do the nextthing. This was similar to what I toldAlex as I held his face in my hands as he cried. I assured him God was in complete control ofthe situation. Even though we werescared and unsure of what was going to happen, God knew from the beginning oftime that we were going to be standing broken in that emergency room at thatparticular time. He was watching over usand would guide us through all that was yet to come.

Alex wanted to go to Iowa Citywith us, so he prepared to contact his RA at school to tell him he wouldn't beback that night. He wasn't able tocontact him, so Alex called his soccer coach, who attends church at ourprevious church in Nevada where we lived and served for 9 years. They of course prayed for our boys, and wordspread throughout our Baptist association. Alex's college, Faith Baptist Bible College,was notified and they began praying. AnotherFaith student who attends church in Nevada immediately upon hearing of theaccident called her parents who are close friends of ours in Clear Lake, and their congregation beganpraying. Members of that church work atthe Iowa Regular Baptist Camp, and spread the word when they got home fromchurch. In an unbelievably short amountof time, word of the boys' accident had spread across the state and beyond, andGod's people were appealing to Him to heal Hudson. You can imagine how the prayers multipliedonce our request was posted on Facebook.

As the helicopter arrived and we spoke with the medic, Iasked him to take good care of my baby. He hugged me and assured me they would do their best. We had provided them with telephone numbersto reach us 'just in case'. One of thehardest things I've had to do was to see my little boy loaded onto that helicopterand not be able to be there with him. Aswe stood in the parking lot and watched the helicopter leave, I remembered thatwhen Hudson was a little baby Iprayed to God and 'gave' my baby to Him. I trusted God, but I wasn't ready to lose my boy. Many of the hospital staff and EMT's were crying as we left the ER.

Alex ended up staying home. My parents made sure the other children were settled in at our house,then took Alex home with them to keep an eye on him. Shannon and I began the hour and a half driveto Iowa City. My sister Kim is a nurse and works in theclinics at the hospital, so she was able to be at the hospital when Hudsonarrived. Shannon and I spent the trippraying fervently for our little guy. Icontacted family and friends asking them for prayer. We sang praises to God and appealed to Him formercy and healing on Hudson.

About half way there we received a call. I was almost afraid to answer the phone. It was the social worker from UIHC calling tomake sure it was okay to share medical information with my sister. Hudsonhad arrived, and they were beginning testing and CT scans. She told us where to park and met us at thedoors, then escorted us to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. Kim was with her, too. When we arrived in the PICU we were greetedby a resident and given a preliminary progress report. The CT scan appeared to be normal, althoughthey were still waiting for the official report. There were no brain bleeds found. He had facial and orbital fractures. The tendon that attaches his left eyeball tothe bone had been severed. Manydifferent doctors and residents were attending to his needs. He was scheduled to be seen by neurosurgeons,oculoplastics, ophthalmologists, radiologists, and a slew of otherproviders. It was quite some time beforewe were able to see him. They had him ina drug-induced coma. He was quiteagitated with the tubes and restraints when conscious. Although the reports were positive, we werewarned that there could still be permanent damage, and we should plan to be atthe hospital for about a week.

The pastor and assistant pastor from our previous churchin Nevada drove two hours to be with us at the hospital, after spending the daypreaching. They stayed with us forseveral hours until we knew Hudsonwas stable, then drove back home in the wee hours of the morning. Their friendship and support meant the worldto us in a very scary time of our lives.

Throughout that first night, the doctors would bring Hudsonout of his coma to test his responsiveness. Although scared and uncomfortable from being intubated and restrained,each time Hudson was able torespond to our voices and squeeze our hands and move his feet.

By morning they had ruled out brain damage and wereconfident that his eye could be repaired. He was put on the surgery schedule as an "add-on", so wedidn't have a specific time for surgery. About 1:00pm they came to gethim to prepare him for surgery. He wasgone for about three hours. When hereturned, they had been able to remove his breathing tube and the repair of hiseye and lacerations had gone well. Hehad just over 20 stitches, beginning across his left eyelid and continuingalong his left cheekbone in "Z" pattern. Within minutes he was talking to us, tryingto remember what had happened. He wassad that he was missing Alex's soccer game. We had told Alex he could play as long as he felt okay. He had been able to play about half of thegame before getting dizzy. When Alexfinished his game, he called to see how surgery went. The first thing Hudsondid when talking to Alex was to thank him for saving him. There wasn't a dry eye in the room.

Hudson was quitecharming the rest of the evening. He wasable to visit with Grandma and Grandpa, Aunt Kimmy, Uncle Jeff and his cousinMason, and pastor Nemmers and his wife.

On Tuesday morning Hudsonreceived a special honor. Our PICU nursewas able to arrange for him to go up to the roof of the hospital and see thehelicopter he had flown in on. One ofthe medics gave the special tour. We were able to see the little cot that hewas strapped to, and the seats for the medics and the pilot. We were allowed to take as many pictures aswe wanted, and they even gave him a stuffed panda bear as a gift.

The biggest surprise of all, though, was the news that wewere being discharged. Not from PICU tothe floor, but HOME. The doctors saidthere was no reason for us to stay. OurPICU nurse had no idea how to discharge a patient home. She had never done it before. Shannon had to go outand buy clothes and a booster seat since Hudsonarrived with neither.

In less than 42 hours from the time of the accident, we hadbeen told that Hudson might notmake it, if he did live he'd likely have brain damage, and he'd possibly losehis left eye. But because of ourmerciful, all-powerful God, we were able to walk out of the hospital with'only' facial fractures and sutures. Wefirmly believe that Hudson washealed because of the faithful prayers of our friends, family, and thecommunity members surrounding our rural home. There's no medical way to explain it. It was just God.

We had incredible opportunities to share our faiththroughout the ordeal, and give glory to God. Our children have been shown clearly that God DOES answer prayers. My sister, who was saved as a child but has notfound time in the past twenty-five years to serve God, saw up close andpersonally that God is active and present in our lives if we allow Him tobe. We were shown so much love andsupport throughout the relatively short time following the accident by friendsand family, and even virtual strangers.

We are truly blessed.

Hudson has been given a clean bill of health from all of his doctors. His vision is perfect. He has quite a scar, but I find it a daily reminder of Who holds us in His hands.

Hudson has learned that God ABSOLUTELY answers prayers. He's got such amazing faith. A week after the initial surgery, Hudson and Macklin were tussling, and all of Hudson's stitches got ripped out. We loaded him up and headed back to Iowa City to have them repaired. On the way there, Hudson looked at Shannon and I and said, "Aren't you going to call everyone and have them pray for me?".

Lesson learned.

"The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD." Proverbs 16:33

September 2011 Recap

2012-01-15T08:30:00.000-06:00

September started out with football games, and ended with football games. Sounds like August, huh?

We celebrated Labor Day Weekend by having our usual group of friends over. The Methenys came Saturday, and brought along some mini bikes and go-carts. The dads, big boys, and little kids all had a great time riding them through the yard and along the track in the pasture.

Sunday evening, Jeffry rolled out of the go-cart and broke his arm and got a big gash in his forehead. We splinted him up and took him to the ER. A few hours later, everyone was back and plans were made to continue the party the next day. Nothing else bad could happen, right?

Monday morning everyone was up bright and early and began riding again. Minor adjustments had been made, tires switched out, and we were ready to go.

A little after ten I decided I would venture out and take some pictures.

The boys challenged me to beat their lap time, so I got behind the wheel, belted myself in, and off I went. After a practice lap, I took off for my timed lap. I was SO going to beat them! Then, coming out of the first turn, I rolled the go-cart. I'm not really sure how or why. It's kind of crazy how it happens so fast, yet still seems like slow motion. I have a distinct memory of my arm raised above my head, and bent backwards across the roll bar midway down my upper arm. I remember thinking, "Wow, that's not supposed to bend there!". As the go-cart came to a stop, I knew immediately my arm was broken. The guys came running, and assessed the damage. They got some more 1 X 4's out of the garage, some duct tape, and a towel, and splinted my arm. I wasn't in any pain, but had a weird, kind of surreal feeling that things were messed up. My shoulder and elbow were dislocated, too, so one chunk of my humerus was just kind of floating around. Creepy. We drove to the ER in Waterloo, and I was fine after some drugs : ) Our company continued on with the grilling and fun back at our house, without us.

This is my before picture.

And these are the after pictures.

I am now bionic. I have a titanium rod and two screws holding everything together. After a night's stay in the hospital, I was sent home. Shannon and the kids took good care of me. Our church family sent meals for several days, my book club girls brought food, and other sweet people in the community fed us. The big boys were thinking it was a pretty good deal!

I spent the first few weeks sleeping on the reclining end of the sofa. I was never casted, just wrapped because I had some pretty deep abrasions that needed to be dressed. I went to physical therapy a couple times, then decided to rehab on my own. After about 4 weeks I was able to give up the sling.

I'm now as good as new, with the exception of some icky looking scars. No more sleeveless tops in my future! My ROM is a little bit limited when pulling my arm behind my back. As long as I'm never arrested and put in handcuffs, I should be able to function okay.

Football and soccer continued throughout the month. I did more supervising at Spaghetti Fridays than working for a few weeks, but the other ladies picked up the slack.

Alex continued to play soccer and go to classes.

On September 11th, Macklin turned ONE year old! We celebrated with cake and ice cream, and had family over to help celebrate.

This is the first birthday cake Shannon has ever made and decorated.

Macklin just getting started.

I think he kind of likes it!

Although it doesn't really look like it, Macklin REALLY enjoys it when Jackson does this. Who says you need to go to the gym to lift weights?

God continues to teach us in new and unique ways to trust in Him in everything and every circumstance. He's got our backs.

"A man's heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps." Proverbs 16:9

August 2011 Recap

2012-01-13T08:30:00.000-06:00

August in our household means FOOTBALL. Practice generally starts the first week of the month. Jackson and Chase played varsity ball this season. Bryce played on the middle school team, and Colton played his first season of tackle football with the 5th & 6th graders.

The boys all had successful seasons. Jackson was honored with a 2nd Team All-District selection at tight end. He also played outside linebacker on defense. Chase was also selected to the 2nd Team All-District team as running back. He was the leading rusher for the team. They each sported a new hairdo for the season. Jack started with the mullet, then changed to a full fledged mohawk. I cannot locate a single photo of the mohawk. I'm sure I took some, but they've disappeared. Chase was a little more reserved in his football hairdo. The Rebels once again made it to the State play-offs, but were unable to advance as far as we would have liked.

It was fun watching the boys play. We had great weather most of the season. Once again I helped organize the Friday afternoon Spaghetti Dinners for the team. We have a great group of ladies that prepare the meal and serve the guys. It's my treat after a long week of school!

Bryce played on the line for his team. They went undefeated for the second year in a row. Bryce works hard and takes his job seriously. His team is fun to watch.

Shannon had the privilege of being part of the coaching staff for Colton's team. Colton enjoyed hitting guys and running the ball. They had a winning season as well.

Colton, Katie and Naomi also played soccer during the fall season. We were constantly running to practices and games. Shannon co-coached the girls' team again this year. I'm thinking it's time he retires, as the only games the girls won were the games he wasn't able to be at!

The biggest change for our household occurred when Alex left home to begin college at Faith Baptist Bible College in Ankeny. He was excited to head out on his own, and was especially excited to have the opportunity to play soccer for the Eagles. We made many trips to Ankeny and throughout the state to watch him play. We even went to Canada to see him play in their regional tournament.

We also started our school year at home in August. I love brand new books, nice neat schedules, and eager students. Someday, maybe I'll have that ;) We continue to persevere, and really do love the flexibility it provides our family. Jackson and Chase continue to work their garbage route on Tuesday mornings. This keeps them in gas and date money.

As I try to recreate some of the events that happened last fall, I've found that I have missed taking TONS of pictures. Perhaps that's because Macklin is a little whirlwind, and it's hard to hold a camera and keep track of a little dynamo at the same time!

Note to self: Take more pictures!

"Therefore hear me now, my children, and do not depart from the words of my mouth." Proverbs 5:7

Thankful Thursday

2012-01-12T15:17:00.000-06:00

Well. Another week is gone, and no new posts :) I had good intentions. Really. Just not enough time. I'm skipping going to Bryce's basketball game in Wellsburg today, so maybe I'll get something done. Or not.

I am thankful for:
~Shannon.
~a warm house.
~warm clothes.
~snow. Kind of.
~monkey bread. We've had it twice so far this week.
~boys who can drive.
~opportunities to teach our boys about submitting to authority, even when they don't like it.
~losing 4 lbs. so far (despite the monkey bread).
~my prayer partner/devo friend.

"Commit your works to the LORD, and your thoughts will be established." Proverbs 16:3

Thankful Thursday

2012-01-05T10:38:00.001-06:00

It has been nearly 6 months since I last blogged. We have had MANY bloggable moments during that time, but I have failed to write down the moments in the busyness of living those moments. I'll attempt to do some catching up in the next few days.

For now, I'm resolving--it is a new year--to be more consistent with my Thankful Thursday posts.

~I am thankful for my family.
~I am thankful the holidays are over :)
~I am thankful that we are healthy.
~I am thankful that the weather has been so nice lately (for January in Iowa!)
~I am thankful for our youth group kids. They're awesome.
~I am thankful for Stash Chai Spice Black Tea. It gets me going in the mornings.
~I'm thankful for Jillian Michaels. She's going to kick my butt back into shape.
~I'm thankful that all of our vehicles are working this week.
~I'm thankful that Katie works so hard on her school each day. She's always the first one done. She's also willing to help Naomi with her school.
~I'm thankful for basketball season. Fun! Fun! Fun!

"He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the LORD." Proverbs 18:22

Family Camp 2011

2011-07-15T12:03:00.000-05:00

Every summer we spend a week together at IRBC. We can't decide how many consecutive years we've gone, but it's over 10. We don't always go the same week. Throughout the years we've been to Family Camps 1,2,3,and 5. This year we attended Family Camp 2. Next year we have reservations for FC 3.

We have several friends that we go with each year. That's the best part!

I've got tons of pictures to post.

Naomi panning for "gold"

Hudson, Noah & Farah panning for "gold"

Colton ready for the zip line

There he goes!

Jackson, Taylor, Chase, Jeff, Shannon and Bryce in the Mud Pit

It's all fun and games until you get mud in your eyes.

Taylor, Chase, Jeff, Bryce and Shannon playing Tug of War

Jackson playing Tug of War

Alex playing Tug of War in the mud pit

Christmas card?

Bryce striking a pose

Not sure what Hudson was sad about...

Colton conquering the climbing wall. He's such a monkey. He completed all six levels, and repeated levels 5 and 6. Bryce, Tate and Taylor are looking on from above.

Jackson's long, lean body helped him set the speed record up #6.

Katie made it to the top of wall #1

Chase on #6

Alex on #6

Katie tubing with Jeff and Taylor

Katie driving bumper boats

Jackson tubing with Jeff and Taylor

The jet ski needed a rest...

and a tow.

Hudson's turn on the jet ski with Jeff and Macy

Naomi lost both front teeth Friday morning at breakfast.

There are so many fun things about family camp. Our team won the volleyball tournament this year. We didn't do as well in the Squinny Ball tournament as usual. The kids enjoyed the pool. We played basketball, ga-ga ball (Colton, Chase and Jackson each won the tournament), carnival games, tether ball, and tons of other activities. Later I'll download some of the pictures taken by the camp photographer.

The best thing about camp is the Christian environment. The services are spiritually uplifting. We get to see friends that we only see at camp each year. The kids have made many friends over the years. We would encourage all families to spend a summer recharging at IRBC each year.

"Listen to counsel and receive instruction, That you my be wise in your latter days." Proverbs 19:20

Katie's 7th Birthday, Naomi's 6th Birthday, and Bryce's 13th Birthday

2011-06-30T12:00:00.000-05:00

As I looked back through the labels for my blog posts, I realized that I failed to post pictures of Katie's, Naomi's & Bryce's birthday...back in January, February & March.

No good excuses for the lapse, other than the usual ones. Better late than never!

Maybe by the time she's 17 I'll have mastered the art of making layer cakes that don't tilt to one side.

Such a sweet 6 year old!

Finally a teenager!

"He who heeds the word wisely will find good, And whoever trusts in the LORD, happy is he." Proverbs 16:20

I Love These Guys

2011-06-29T12:00:00.014-05:00

Best Friends

Alex and Jordin playing board games with the littles.

I love this guy.

Best seat in the house.

"Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; When he shuts his lips he is considered perceptive." Proverbs 17:28

Getting In the Hammock...Or Not

2011-06-28T12:00:00.002-05:00

"The way of life winds upward for the wise, That he may turn away from hell below." Proverbs 15:24

Baby Kittens

2011-06-27T17:23:00.001-05:00

Last week we discovered that we had new baby kittens. We knew that Mama Kitty was pregnant in May, and she was skinnier toward the end of the month, but we weren't able to find the kittens. She doesn't have a great track record of being a good mama, so we assumed the kittens had died.

As Shannon walked through the garage last week, he heard meowing. Mama Kitty had apparently had the kittens up in the insulation over the add-on porch. Either she was moving them down, or they ventured down on their own. We found two grey kittens and one calico.

The next morning Naomi discovered a little black kitten, too. She was SOOOOO excited. The little ones love the baby kittens. The black one is very skittish, but the others are quite friendly.

We are guessing that they are about 5-6 weeks old. Anyone interested in kittens at their house? Free for the taking (in a few more weeks!). One of the babies was eating dog food out of Checkers' bucket on Saturday. We don't buy cat food...just because. Mama Kitty and Todd both eat dog food. I'd hate to spoil the babies by getting them started on kitty chow :-)

"If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat; And if he is thirsty, give him water to drink;" Proverbs 25:21

Colton's 10th Birthday

2011-06-27T17:03:00.001-05:00

On May 28th Colton turned 10. Double Digits! We celebrated with Papa Joe because his birthday is the 27th.

We made monkey cupcakes for Colton. Those of you who know him well, know that this kid can and will climb just about anything.

We thought this one was a pretty good likeness of Colton.

We now have more children in double digits than not. I'm not sure if that is a good thing or not?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY COLTON!

"Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in the power of your hand to do so." Proverbs 3:27

Sundresses

2011-06-27T16:13:00.000-05:00

Katie and Naomi informed me several weeks ago that we really needed to look into getting some new sundresses for this summer. I decided to try my hand at sewing some. The first pattern we tried was very easy, but not very cute. Those dresses became swimsuit coverups.

The next pattern I tried was one I found on the internet. It's really not a pattern, just a bunch of rectangles cut from fabric and sewn back together. Here's the link: Sundress Pattern .

It's much cuter than the first pattern, but also takes more time. Overall, it's an easy pattern, and I got to learn a new skill. The back of the dress is shirred. I had never done shirring before, but am in love with it now. Very fun and easy to do. We even made some matching headbands to coordinate with the sundresses.

I have several more to make before camp next week. Here are some pictures of a couple we have completed.

Sundresses MUST be twirly!

Sisterly love?

Must be able to do stunts like jumping off of the front porch in sundresses.

This is a close-up of the shirring on the back. Fun!

Perhaps I'll add more sundress pictures as we complete them. Or not...

"She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies for the merchants." Proverbs 31:24

Naomi Rides Without Training Wheels

2011-05-30T17:53:00.000-05:00

Friday night while the big kids were playing Ga-Ga Ball Naomi decided it was time to learn to ride her bike without training wheels. Well, actually, the boys took her training wheels off of the bike last year because they were going to use the wheels on her bike to build a go-cart, but that's a different post. For lack of anyone willing to put the trainers back on, she determined to learn to ride without them.

She was a little shaky at times...

Showing some attitude!

She's been practicing all weekend, and has the scraped up knees to prove it!

"...but diligence is man's precious possession." Proverbs 12:27

Ga-Ga Ball

2011-05-30T17:05:00.002-05:00

On Mother's Day we made a trip into Waterloo and bought some lumber to build a Ga-Ga Ball Pit. It took us about an hour to build. You just can't beat the Clark Assembly Line when building things. I think we've gotten our money's worth out of it already.

You can find the official Wikipedia Ga-Ga Ball rules here. Our kids learned to play at IRBC.

We enjoy it because the whole family can play. The big boys are usually nice about letting the little ones get their fair share of game time.

Jumping to avoid the ball.

One of the main hazards of the game is bloody knuckles. We've invested in a super-sized box of bandaids.

Hudson getting in on the action.

The agony of defeat.

Chase wrote this endearing message with his blood...

Macklin gets to watch from outside the pit.

We were hoping to have nice weather for Alex's graduation open house so the little kids could be outside playing. Unfortunately, it was rainy, so we didn't get to share that day. We have had a couple opportunities for friends to come over and play since then.

Wanna come play?

"Whoso causeth the righteous to go astray in an evil way, he shall fall himself into his own pit: but the upright shall have good things in possession." Proverbs 28:10

Alex Graduates from High School

2011-05-28T23:33:00.002-05:00

Alex celebrated his graduation from High School this month. Our church honors our seniors on graduation Sunday. Alex and several of his friends participated.

Alex was awarded the Ironmen's Scholarship and was given a bible.

We hosted a graduation open house in our home on May 14th. Although the weather didn't cooperate and we ended up moving the family room furniture upstairs in order to set up tables and chairs inside, we had a really nice time visiting with friends and family. It meant a lot to Alex to have so many people who have influenced his life celebrate with him.

I did not get a single picture of his open house. It didn't even occur to me at the time. There was so much going on and so many people coming and going that there wasn't time.

We are very proud of Alex. He has done an excellent job with his schooling. Being the oldest, he was at times our 'guinea pig'. We tried many different kinds of curriculum, some of which we liked, some we didn't. We feel we have given him a well-rounded education, centered on our faith in Jesus Christ. He has excelled in his math and science courses, and has had the opportunity to learn many skills that are unique to our home school. We are pleased with the man he has become.

Alex has been accepted to Faith Baptist Bible College in Ankeny. He plans to play soccer for them this fall.

Here is a link to view the slideshow presentation that we showed at Alex's open house.
http://www.authorstream.com/Presentation/jodiclark-1037631-alex-clark/

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge." Proverbs 1:7

Thankful Thursday

2011-04-28T15:30:00.002-05:00

Today I am thankful that~

~I serve a RISEN Saviour.
~I have healthy children.
~there is a soccer game tonight.
~Chase's hip flexor has improved enough to play in the soccer game tonight.
~there is no track meet tonight.
~we have money to go buy groceries tonight so I can feed my healthy children.
~graduation invitations are on their way to the mailbox.
~the sun is shining.
~my new septic system has been installed.
~I can pray for friends who are hurting and struggling right now. God is good, always.
~Macklin got his cast off last Monday. He's doing exceptionally well.
~Shannon is my husband.
~I'm headed upstairs to put the LAST load of laundry in when I'm done blogging.
~I have a drawer full of USB cables so I can add some photos to this blog.

Easter 2011

"Put away from thee a forward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee." Proverbs 4:24

Baby Macklin

2011-04-04T17:48:00.000-05:00

Baby Macklin is six and a half months old. He's chubby, slobbery (2 teeth!), smiley, and overall, a pretty easy baby. He's slept through the night almost from the start. He's eating baby food like a champ. He's attended tons of football and basketball games, and tolerated them all pretty well.

He's starting to get up on his hands and knees and move around the house. He hasn't mastered the traditional crawl yet, but he's able to scoot and move from room to room to find the action.

Hudson likes to get down on the floor and play cars with him. He also moves his toys out in front of him to entice Macklin to crawl and get them.

Sometimes Macklin gets moving so much, he'll crawl right over his toys.

The first thing Naomi does when she wakes up in the morning is come up to my bedroom and check on her baby brother. Every. Single. Morning. Tuesday of last week was no exception. Macklin woke up when Shannon was getting ready for work. Since I wasn't ready to get up yet, Shannon put him in bed with me. Not long after that, Naomi came up for her morning snuggle with her baby brother.

As I was getting dressed, Chase called to check in with me after he finished track practice. Naomi started heading downstairs with Macklin. There are three steps from our bedroom to the landing. I think Naomi thought she was on the landing, but in fact she had one more step to go. She stumbled, and landed on Macklin. She had the presence of mind not to drop him. It was just an accident. It could have just as easily happened to me or one of the big boys.

I checked them over, and neither one seemed hurt, with no bumps or bruises. We went about our day, but by mid-afternoon I noticed Macklin was getting a bit fussy, and as I changed his diaper, he began to cry. We decided to take him to the doctor to make sure he was okay. X-rays revealed he had a fracture of his right femur, just above the growth plate above his knee. The orthopedic doctor recommended casting him under anesthesia, which meant we had to wait 4-6 hours because he had a bottle on the way to the doctor's office.

We were admitted to the pediatric floor, and at about 10:30pm he was taken for his procedure. The plan was to put him in a Spica cast to help immobilize his hip area and promote quicker healing. Everything went well, and they kept us overnight for observation.

We were discharged by 8:30 the next morning. Shannon picked us up on his lunch break and brought us home. Macklin's cast is big and bulky and awkward, but he's tolerating it well, and he hasn't needed any Tylenol since being in the hospital.

The photo below gives an idea of how diapering works. We use a size 1 diaper and stuff it in the opening. Then a great big size 4 diaper goes over the entire cast. This system leaves a lot to be desired, but we're making the best of it.

He enjoys sitting in the bean bag chair. We also put him in the stroller occasionally and take him for rides around the house. He had some difficulty sleeping the first few nights, but the last couple have been much better. I still get him up to change his diaper during the night.

To allay some of the rumors that are circulating around town, I would like to assure everyone that he only has ONE fracture (not every bone in his body), he was not THROWN down the stairs, nor did he BOUNCE down the stairs, and he DOES NOT have brain damage.

Although I would prefer to turn back the hands of time and not have to have Macklin experience any of this, I'm confident he will never remember any of it.

He's still scooching himself around the floor, and is just as happy and content as ever. He's looking forward to going to the first soccer game of the season tomorrow--weather permitting. GO REBELS!

"Like the legs of the lame that hang limp Is a proverb in the mouth of fools." Proverbs 26:7

Thankful Thursday

2011-03-17T12:01:00.000-05:00

I haven't done a Thankful Thursday post since March 25, 2010. I think it's about time again.

I came across my last Thankful Thursday post while looking for the results of our March Madness competition last year. I didn't post the results, but as of the second round, I was ahead. We can all assume I won the whole thing.

I'll try to keep you posted on this year's status. Let the games begin!

Oh...I almost forgot. It's Thankful Thursday.

*I'm thankful for Shannon. He's lost 22 lbs. in 4 weeks. Tomorrow is his next weigh-in day.
*I'm thankful for my children. Without them, who would I pick up after?
*I'm thankful that the bathroom remodel is almost finished.
*I'm thankful that the weather is getting warmer.
*I'm thankful that our septic system is going to be replaced.
*I'm thankful for broccoli. I've eaten a lot of it lately.
*I'm thankful for March Madness.

"Better is a dry morsel with quietness, than a house full of feasting with strife." Proverbs 17:1

Hudson

2011-02-24T23:03:00.000-06:00

On January 9th Hudson turned 4 years old. I asked each of our family members (that is able) to tell me one word that describes Hudson. Here are the results:

Shannon: The Bane of My Existence (Shannon doesn't follow rules)
Alex: Nuts
Jackson: Uncontrollable
Chase: Uuuuhhhhh....
Bryce: Loud
Colton: Wild
Katie: Cute
Naomi: Crazy
Jodi: Mine

Hudson is all of those things, and more. I think he drives Shannon crazy because they are so much alike!

Four is my favorite age. If only I could keep them like this forever!

I love you Hudson!

"He who loves purity of heart and has grace on his lips, The king will be his friend." Proverbs 22:11

Zoo 2010

2011-02-24T22:21:00.000-06:00

At the beginning of November we planned to load the kids up and head to Omaha to visit the Zoo. Since Alex and Jackson had a short garbage day, we we were hoping to be on the road by about 10:30am. Things rarely go as planned at our home, and this day was no exception.

By the time we got to Des Moines, Hudson had thrown up once from car sickness and it was almost 1:00pm. We decided to go with Plan B and stop at the the Blank Park Zoo, instead.

The weather was beautiful, and we pretty much had the zoo to ourselves. Here are some photos from our day at the zoo.

The Clarks (sans Macklin--he slept in his stroller the whole time)

Chase and Jack striking a pose.

Alexander

Biggest smile contest

My Beauties

Colt

Every family should have a Hudson

The littles

Bryce Jamison

Fabio

The Goodfellas

Got milk?

Taming the bull

Future Chiropractor?

With Alex leaving for college this fall, I'm afraid our family vacations/outings are limited. Gotta make some memories while we still can!

"A wise son makes a glad father, But a foolish son is the grief of his mother." Proverbs 10:1

Long Lost Blogger

2011-02-24T21:12:00.000-06:00

It has been three months since I've blogged. A lot has happened. I'm just going to start posting some pictures and see where we end up.

This is a picture of baby Macklin when he was 18 days old.

Here he is with his daddy.

Macklin is the ultimate Rebel Fan!

Baby Macklin at 2.5 months.

Jackson doing his Macklin impersonation.

Alex and Jordin before Homecoming 2010

My big boys before Homecoming 2010

"A man who isolates himself seeks his own desire; He rages against all wise judgment." Proverbs 18:1

Fall 2010

2010-11-17T17:20:00.000-06:00

I have done a miserable job blogging this year. There just never seems to be enough time--or motivation--to sit down and get the job done. Pregnancy and new baby just kind of put a stop to all normal activity.

I was able to help out the boys' football team by organizing their game day spaghetti dinners. Before each varsity game a group of moms get together to make spaghetti, garlic bread, pickles, bananas and white cake for the team and cheerleaders. On long-distance away games, we also make sandwiches and bars for to the boys to have after the game. We had a lot of fun this year, and no one left hungry.

The Rebels had a successful season. The Varsity team made it to the playoffs, but unfortunately lost in the first round to DNH, who is scheduled to play in the state finals this weekend. It was one of those games that could have gone either way. We just didn't get the job done at the right time.

Alex was honored to be selected to the Second Team All-District Special Teams team. He was also selected by his teammates as Special Teams MVP. Alex played on the offensive line all season, which doesn't attract a lot of stats or attention, unless you're not doing your job. We're very proud of him and the job he did this season.

Jackson saw some Varsity defensive and special teams playing time this season, too, and earned his Varsity letter.

Both Jack and Chase played on the JV football team. Jackson played linebacker, and Chase was running back. Jack led the team in tackles, and Chase had over 1500 yards rushing. Between the two of them, they scored over twelve touchdowns, and a myriad of PAT's. I don't know the exact numbers, but I'm sure the boys could fill you in on the details. You might also want to ask them about a couple hook-n-ladder plays they cooked up.

Chase played on the Freshman team, too, as running back. Two games on back-to-back nights made for a pretty tired boy, but he delivered and worked hard on both sides of the ball.

Bryce debuted his football career as a lineman for the 7th grade Rebel team. He worked hard all season, and shows great potential for the upcoming years.

In his first month and a half of life, Macklin was able to go to 21 football games. Colton and Katie each played four flag-football games, and Katie and Colton played soccer, as well, for a total of 12 more games on the weekend. Add in church responsibilities, and we didn't have a whole lot of free time.

We wouldn't have it any other way.

Basketball practice has begun, and our first game is November 29th. Go Rebels!

EIGHTEEN

2010-11-17T09:32:00.000-06:00

Today Alex is eighteen years old.

Really? How can that be possible?

Everyone always says that the years will pass by so quickly. In a blink of the eye the children will be gone.

Eighteen years ago, I didn't believe them.

Today, I do.

Eighteen.

A senior in high school. A man.

I am so proud of Alex and the person he has become. He is smart. He is hard-working. He is helpful. He thinks of others. He is loyal. He is dedicated. He is growing spiritually. He is willing to serve in his church. He is athletic. He is a good example to his younger brothers. When he loves, he loves completely. He is also a typical teen-aged boy at times.

Eighteen. Really.

Sometimes I feel so guilty that he had to be our 'guinea pig' in this game of parenting. But God knew what He was doing when he made Alex our oldest child. It hasn't always been an easy role for him, but he has paved the way for his siblings.

Have I mentioned how much I love Alex? I have ever since I first learned that he would be our Baby Dumplin'. When I first held him in my arms, life changed forever. He was the first one to call me Mommy. He has brought so much joy to our lives. He is an amazing blessing.

Eighteen.

I still can't comprehend the passing of time. Soon we will be hosting his graduation reception, and sending him off to college. His life is before him. My prayer is that he will continue to make wise decisions and rely on his Heavenly Father to guide him as he chooses which path he will take in life.

Happy birthday, Alex. Dad and I love you so much, and are very proud of you.

Love,

Mom

"My son, if you receive my words, and treasure my commands within you, so that you incline your ear to wisdom, and apply your heart to understanding; Yes, if you cry out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding, if you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; Then you will understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God." Proverbs 2:1-5

**My computer is in the shop, so I don't have any pictures to post of Alex. You can view the proofs of Alex's senior pictures, taken by our good friend and awesome photographer Jen, at this link: http://jennymelle.zenfolio.com/p630150391

Until I Met You

2010-09-12T11:39:00.004-05:00

Macklin Giovanni Clark
9/11/10 at 9:07 A.M.
7 pounds, 3.4 ounces
20 inches long

There was a time when I thought our family was complete.

I thought I was right. Until I met you.

I used to think I had it all figured out.

I thought I was right. Until I met you.

Once I thought my life was as full of joy as it could get.

I thought I was right. Until I met you.

At one point, I thought I was stretched to my limit, with nothing more to give.

I thought I was right. Until I met you.

I used to think that I was fine with having just eight children.

I thought I was right. Until I met you.

I used to think my heart held as much love as it could.

I thought I was right. Until I met you.

I'm so glad I met you baby Macklin. You fill my heart in ways I never would have thought.

"My son, hear the instruction of your father, and do not forsake the law of your mother;" Proverbs 1:8

Rebel Football Discount Card Solicitation

2010-08-08T20:38:00.005-05:00

This is a shameless attempt to solicit Rebel Football Discount cards. Between Alex, Jackson, Chase and Bryce, we are expected to sell 75 cards. Yes, 75.

The cards cost $15.00 each. The football schedule is printed on the front for easy reference. Discounts are valid throught 7/31/2011.

Discounts include:

Casey's General Store: FREE Small Single Topping Pizza (1 time use only)
Pizza Hut: FREE Med Pizza w/purch of Lg Specialty @ reg price (1X use only) GC
Fountain on Main: FREE Vanilla Cone w/$6 Purchase (Reinbeck)
Texas Roadhouse: FREE Baby Blossom w/purch 2 entrees (Cedar Falls)
Amigos: FREE Amigos Famous Cheese Sauce w/purch of 2 dinners & 2 drinks (CF)
Morris Inn: Free Slushie or ?Soft ?Drink w/purch of a meal (Morrison)
Hair & Energy Clinic: FREE Tanning Session w/purch of five tanning sessions (Reinbeck)
Gladbrook Auto Supply: FREE Installation w/purchase of wiper blades
Gladbrook Tire Center: FREE Oil Filter w/purch of oil change
NAPA Auto: FREE Oil Change with purchase of three
Johnny Ray's: FREE Pop w/purch of entree (Grundy Center)
Nana Rosa's Pizza: FREE Order of Breadsticks w/purch of Large Pizza (Dine-in Only) RB
Gladbrook Theatre: FREE Admission w./ opne paid admission (Gladbrook)
Casey's General Store: $2 OFF Any Large Pizza (Valid at any store that sells pizza)
Pepper's: $2 OFF Any Ticket over $20 (Cedar Falls)
Cold Stone Creamery: $1 OFF Any "Love It" of Larger Ice Cream Creation (CF/Wloo)
Subway: $.50 OFF 6" Sub (Grundy Center)
Hometown Foods: $.50 OFF Sub w/purch of 2nd 6" sub (Gladbrook)
Gifts of Grace: $.50 OFF Specialty Drinks, Smoothies, Frappuccinos & Lattes (Gladbrook)
Lifetime Vision Center: 50% OFF Sunglasses Clip w/purch of any frame (Grundy Center)
Best Buy: 10% OFF Regular Priced CD's and DVD's (Waterloo)
Trunk's Country Foods: 5% OFF $60 Purchase or more (not appl w/ sale items or S-N-S)

If you are interested, let us know! Help support the Youth Sports Foundation and the Rebel Football program.

"Boast not of tomorrow for you know not what a day may bring." Proverbs 27:1

Hudson Update

2010-06-30T10:35:00.008-05:00

There have been some big improvements on the potty training front at our house this week. Hudson has pooped in the potty four of the last six days. Up until this point, he has flat-out refused to do so. He's loving wearing his big boy underwear, and the weather is perfect for letting little boys run around without any clothes on.

Trying to get him to pose for a picture has proven more difficult. It seems to pain him to stand or sit still.

He spins.

He flips.

And he flips some more.

Or he sucks in his stomach.

At this rate, we might just get some time off from diapers before the new baby comes!

Way to go, Hudson!

"My son, if your heart is wise, My heart will rejoice--indeed, I myself;" Proverbs 23:15

Colton's 9th Birthday

2010-06-14T16:57:00.002-05:00

Colton turned 9 on May 28th. We had a very informal birthday party for him. He even baked his own cake--not because I wouldn't, but because he wanted to.

Colton loves to play games. We got him a couple new games, and grandma and papa got him some roller blades. We have been having a lot of fun as a family playing Bananagrams lately.

Colton is growing up into a great little young man. He is helpful around the house, and is always good for a hug. He does a good job with his school work (when he decides to!), and is a pleasure to have around.

Happy Birthday Colton!!!

"My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart." Proverbs 3:1

Checking In

2010-06-13T18:53:00.002-05:00

It has been quite awhile since I have posted to my blog. I think about it regularly, just don't seem to be able to get around to it. I thought about promising to post every day this week, but I'm not confident I could keep the promise. So, we'll take it day by day.

Here are some quick updates:

Soccer is over. I'll try to get some pictures and highlights posted soon.

School is over, except for a few more math lessons for Chase. He's usually one of my first ones done. Not this year. He tells me he'll be done by the end of the week. Again. Regardless, I'm done with school. Pray for us, please, as we make decisions regarding next school year.

Bryce and Colton leave for Jr. Boys Camp tomorrow morning. Still doing laundry. Still packing.

Jackson and Chase are taking Driver's Ed this month. So far, so good. They are open enrolling through the Grundy Center school district. The instructor was kind enough to allow Chase to take the course, even though he doesn't turn 14 until July 24. Mr. Dirks agreed to drive with him after his birthday, allowing us to take next summer off. We really appreciate it.

Although we are not participating in any organized sports like baseball this summer, the three older boys are still quite busy. On top of Driver's Ed, they are expected to lift weights 4 times per week for football. They also have football drills several times a week. They have shooting practice for basketball three mornings a week, open gym one evening, and scrimmages another evening.

We have four baby kittens.

We bought a pool pass. The big boys took the little ones to the pool a couple times this past week. It was awesome. I got the house to myself, and the kids came back tired out.

My pregnancy is progressing as expected. My blood pressure began creeping up about a month ago, so my OB prescribed me some meds. They seem to be doing the job, but tend to make me irritable (or so my family says). I'm not liking that aspect. I'm counting down the weeks until I can stop the pills. Baby is healthy. That's what's important.

Papa Joe has been sick the past week. Wednesday night while he was home alone, his heart stopped, activating his defibrillator. He had been preparing for a colonoscopy which was scheduled for Thursday morning. We think perhaps he was dehydrated, or somehow had a reaction with his meds that triggered the attack. We don't have any clear answers yet. He was in the hospital until Friday, when he was discharged. Carrie and Jason, Shannon's sister and brother-in-law, took him home, but were uncomfortable leaving him, so they took him to their home in Huxley. He started acting as if he were having a stroke, so they took him to the ER in Ames. We received a call that we needed to get there as soon as possible because Shannon is his power of attorney and he was fading fast. When we arrived, he was stabilized, but in a coma. They decided to transfer him to intensive care, and by the time we were able to see him again, he was talking, moving his arms and legs, and relatively lucid. Saturday he was moved out of ICU, and basically has been just hanging out there over the weekend. Kind of like an expensive hotel room, without the amenities. Around 3:00 this afternoon, while playing cards, he became very agitated and started acting out of character. Apparently they're tweaking his meds some, so we're hoping his personality will revert back to his normal when they figure everything out. We're hoping to get some more answers when the doctors show up again Monday morning. It's been a bit frustrating trying to communicate with the hospital personnel. Please pray as we make decisions about what course to take with Papa Joe's care after he is released.

I also need to post pictures from Papa Joe's 85th Birthday Open House we hosted a few weeks ago.

This is getting plenty long, and it's time to change the laundry loads. More to come soon.

Here is a photo Alex took of a flower somewhere on our property, just because posts without photos are boring.

"By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches and honor and life." Proverbs 22:4

Cream * A * Teen

2010-05-05T21:26:00.001-05:00

Tonight was our church's annual AWANA Fun Fair. The church members gather together to host a carnival type celebration to reward the clubbers for their hard work.

Each year Shannon and I come up with a game for the kids to play. I would like to proudly announce that for the fourth year running we have won the 'Most Popular Game' award.

This year our game was "Cream * A * Teen. We built a catapult, and flung pie tins of whipped cream at the teens. Very fun, very messy, and the kids loved it. The teens had a pretty good time, too.

Perhaps next year we'll get some REAL competition...

"Plans are established by counsel; by wise counsel wage war." Proverbs 20:18

Prom 2010

2010-05-04T22:01:00.007-05:00

How is it that I have a child old enough to go to prom? It just doesn't seem right. But alas, it is what it is.

Alex and Jordin went to both Grundy Center and Gladbrook-Reinbeck's proms this year. Here are a few pictures commemorating the event.

I think they make a beautiful couple.

"My son, let them not depart from your eyes--keep sound wisdom and discretion;" Proverbs 3:21

Introducing...

2010-05-04T16:34:00.005-05:00

the newest member of the Clark family.

We are pleased to announce that Baby Boy Clark is due to arrive on September 20, 2010...or preferably sooner.

Halfway there!

"The righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him." Proverbs 20:7

Thankful Thursday

2010-04-01T17:38:00.003-05:00

~ I'm thankful I'm home.

~ I'm thankful for my family.

~ I'm thankful for the sunshine and beautiful weather. My windows are open and fresh air is circulating throughout my house. Finally.

~ I'm thankful that our annual Chinese Buffet is over. The egg rolls flopped, but everything else turned out okay. We enjoyed the fellowship, and I've had no reports of food poisoning.

~ I'm thankful Shannon got to ride his motorcycle to work this afternoon. Jack changed the oil for him this morning. It makes him happy.

~ I'm thankful Hudson has gone potty in the big potty all day. So far, so good.

~ I'm thankful for Shannon's business. He loves what he is doing, and he's good at it.

I hope to finish downloading pictures from my vacation soon. It doesn't seem like it's been nearly a week since I've been home. We've had a dinner party, church activites, flat tires, and all kinds of other fun stuff going on.

"He who speaks truth declares righteousness..." Proverbs 12:17a

Thankful Thursday

2010-03-25T07:24:00.002-05:00

I'm going home. I miss my family. My flight gets into Des Moines at 11:50p.m.

"As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend." Proverbs 27:17

Charleston, Day 2

2010-03-23T18:28:00.012-05:00

Today was tour day. We booked a combo tour of the historic district of Charleston and also the Magnolia Plantation. I took a ton of pictures, but I'm not really in the mood to post many of them tonight. It has been taking forever for them to upload. So, I have chosen to only post the ones I think the kids will like the best.

Tomorrow we plan to tour Fort Sumter. The weather was sunny and in the 60's today. It was breezy, and tended to be cool at times. Tomorrow is expected to be in the 70's and sunny.

"The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD shall be safe." Proverbs 29:25

March Madness 2010

2010-03-22T20:16:00.006-05:00

I just wanted to let the world know that after the first two rounds...

Jodi is leading in the Clark March Madness Bracket Mania!!

But that's not really much of a surprise.

"A wise man will hear and increase learning, and a man of understanding will attain wise counsel," Proverbs 1:5

Myrtle Beach, SC

2010-03-22T19:39:00.010-05:00

We left Atlantic Beach this morning and headed for Myrtle Beach, SC. It wasn't a very long drive, but the traveling was rather slow due to many towns along the way.

We toured up and down Ocean Blvd. and spent a little time on the beach. Here's a picture of Grandma Shirley playing in the ocean. It was COLD!!!

Papa Ken and Grandma Shirley

Just to prove I was here...

And the picture of the day for Colton...palm trees!

We checked into our hotel in Charleston, SC and plan to stay here for the next three nights. We're taking some tours tomorrow, so I should have lots of pictures to post. We've traveled nearly 2000 miles since Thursday. It will be kind of nice to sleep in the same bed for more than one night.

I'm missing my babies...and Shannon, too.

"He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the LORD." Proverbs 18:22

Nag's Head, NC

2010-03-21T19:44:00.016-05:00

Here are a few pictures from our hotel balcony of the sunrise Sunday morning.

We attended church at Nag's Head Church this morning. The service was a little more rockin' than I'm used to, but they preached the Word of God and had a great message. We checked out of our hotel, grabbed some lunch (I ate grits), then headed out of town.

Our first stop was at Kitty Hawk to the Wright Brothers' National Memorial.

Around the base of the monument was the saying, "In commemoration of the conquest of the air by the brothers Wilbur and Orville Wright conceived by genius achieved by dauntless resolution and unconquerable faith".

We were hoping to take a route south via a succession of ferry rides along the coast, but were unable because the ferry was booked and they were running limited departure times. We ended up going back inland and retracing our steps from yesterday a bit, then heading south to Atlantic
Beach, where we're staying tonight.

"The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and they are safe." Proverbs 18:3

Sunday, March 21, 2010

2010-03-21T19:28:00.005-05:00

The biggest news of the day:

IT'S BRYCE'S 12TH BIRTHDAY!!!

He's smart.

He's funny.

He's easy-going.

He's agreeable.

He likes video games.

He likes writing songs.

He likes music.

He smiles a lot.

He is great at memorizing bible verses.

He makes awesome cookie dough.

He'll always be my little Boo.

WE LOVE YOU, BRYCE!!!!!

"My son, do not forget my law, but let your heart keep my commands;" Proverbs 3:1

Saturday

2010-03-20T19:59:00.002-05:00

Blogger isn't playing nicely and won't upload any of my photos from today. I'll try again tomorrow.

Way to go PANTHERS!!!!

Smoky Mountain National Park

2010-03-20T19:43:00.010-05:00

Saturday we started out the day by driving through Smoky Mountain National Park. We entered the park at Gatlinburg, TN.

I'm not a big fan of mountains. To me, if you've seen one mountain, you've seen 'em all. I get scared looking over the edge of the road into the great abyss below. I'd just as soon drive through Iowa.

I did enjoy the tour through the national park. The roads were wide enough. There were guardrails along the scary parts. They had a lot of pull outs to stop and take pictures.

The thing is, though, that the mountains are ...well...smoky. There's a haze that hangs over them. It doesn't make for great pictures, especially when the photographer isn't great at taking pictures.

We also saw some elk.

We drove the rest of the day, and made it to Nags Head, NC about 7:10 p.m. By the time we got to our hotel room, there were about six minutes to go in the UNI vs. Kansas game. We were busy watching the game, but during a TV time-out I ran out the to balcony and snapped a couple pictures. The sun had already set. I'm looking forward to getting some better shots tomorow morning.

Can you believe those Panthers?!? I bet you could hear Dad and I hollering all the way to Iowa. The harley guys partying in the paking lot below our room sure wondered what all the noise was about. I think we converted them into UNI fans. For the record, I picked UNI to win this game.

"As the heavens for height and the earth for depth, so the heart of kings is unsearchable." Proverbs 25:3

Getting Away From It All

2010-03-19T15:54:00.006-05:00

A couple weeks ago my parents invited me to go along on a trip they were planning on taking to the East coast. I decided to schedule a Spring Break trip into our school year...for me.

We left Reinbeck early yesterday morning. We had a couple errands to make in Waterloo/Cedar Falls before we officially hit the road. We made it through Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, and as far as Frankfort, Kentucky by 8:00pm Eastern time.

There's not much noteworthy to see in Iowa, Illinois or Indiana in mid-March that I can't see by looking out my front windows. It's all pretty much the same--brown and dead. By the time we got to Kentucky, the grass was greener and the landscape changed somewhat.

We saw many horses between Frankfort and Lexington.

We saw mountains and valleys that freaked me out, although I was then informed that they really weren't mountains.

We're staying in Sevierville, TN tonight. We've had a lazy afternoon in the hotel. It's sunny and 71 degrees here. From what I understand, snow is forecast for Iowa this weekend :).

This is a picture of the mountains from our hotel window. It looks like there's still some snow up there.

And also a picture of a holly bush outside the hotel window. It's so nice to see green!

We're planning to drive through the Smoky Mountains tomorrow en route to North Carolina.

"The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but deliverance is of the LORD." Proverbs 21:31

March Madness 2010

2010-03-19T15:41:00.004-05:00

I love this time of year!

Each member of the family, excluding Hudson, filled out a bracket this year. They're officially hung on the family room wall.

But I'm not home.

It's tradition that I'm the only one allowed to fill in the 'Master Bracket' and keep track of points on each individual bracket.

But I'm not home.

So Shannon has taken over the role of "Stat Master".

Until I get home.

Currently I'm in third place in the point standings. It really doesn't matter who is in first or second, because I will soon be passing them. It's okay for them to have this short time of success. It won't last.

Since I've been travelling, I haven't seen many of the games. I was able to watch the end of the UNI game last night on the computer. Unfortunately, I was in Frankfort, Kentucky, and the networks felt the need to show the Kentucky/ETSU game, even though it was a blow-out.
The nerve.

There was a bit of a time delay between the streaming on the computer and the score displayed on the TV, which was a bit unnerving. We were able to see the last 1.6 seconds live, which is all that really matters.

I'm not sure where we'll be tomorrow afternoon, so will have to see if I can watch the next UNI game. Wish we were in Oklahoma!

"Understanding is a wellspring of life to him who has it." Proverbs 16:21a

Thankful Thursday

2010-03-18T20:42:00.003-05:00

* I'm thankful for safety travelling today, and for the opportunity to get away form the usual grind for a week.

* I'm thankful my husband allowed me the opportunity to get away from the usual grind for a week.

* I'm thankful that my big kids are willing to step it up and keep things running smoothly at home while I'm gone.

* I'm thankful for sunshine.

* I'm thankful for my book club ladies. I have so much fun with them. They are a blessing to me.

* I'm thankful for diet Coke. It gets me through the day.

* I'm thankful UNI won their basketball game tonight. KABOOM!

"A man has joy by the answer of his mouth, and a word spoken in due season, how good it is!" Proverbs 15:23

Naomi's Birthday

2010-02-25T21:26:00.003-06:00

It is birthday season at our home. Hudson starts it off on Jan. 9, Katie's day is Jan. 28, my birthday is Feb. 10, and Naomi finished off the string of birthdays on Feb. 18th.

This year she turned 5. FIVE!

I can say many of the same things about Naomi as I did of Katie. She is cute, funny, entertaining, and precocious. She's a budding artist. She loves to be read to, and loves to draw pictures and write notes. She plays dress up, but can hold her own wrestling with her brothers, too. She likes sparkly earrings. She has a favorite bear she likes to sleep with.

She decorated her own cake this year.

Naomi loves to snuggle, and more often than not she is in bed with us before morning. I'm sure I will miss this about her some day. She says long and very insightful prayers before meals. She loves the color purple (just like me).

I really enjoyed Naomi as a four year old. I'm guessing five is going to be even better.

WE LOVE YOU NAOMI CAMILLE!

"Let your father and your mother be glad, and let her who bore you rejoice." Proverbs 23:25

Jodi's Birthday...

2010-02-25T21:03:00.003-06:00

...has come and gone.

Shannon was able to spend the morning with us because he was snowed in. Colton made me breakfast (cereal) in bed. He's cool like that.

Colton also baked me a birthday cake. He frosted it, too. My parents stopped by in the afternoon to have some cake with us. They tried giving me a hard time about being 40. I simply pointed out that their youngest child was now 40, so they must be REALLY old.

Turning the big 4-0 really wasn't too traumatic. I am exceedingly blessed. My mom and I were just talking a couple days ago about whether or not we would go back and time (if we could) and do things differently. I decided that there really isn't much of anything that I would change about my life. I suppose there were specific events that did not seem like blessings at the time, but all of life's experiences have come together to make me who I am, and make my life what it is. Life is good.

"Listen, for I will speak of excellent things, and from the opening of my lips will come right things;" Proverbs 8:6

Katie's 6th Birthday

2010-02-25T20:48:00.005-06:00

I really can't believe Katie is six years old. It amazes me.

She is such sweetheart. She cracks me up with the funny things she says. She's a wonderful helper with the little kids, and loves caring for them. She adores all things girly, and enjoys playing dress up. She can sit in front of a mirror and brush her hair for long periods of time. She likes to have her fingernails painted. Her new favorite thing is french braids.

My life would be so different if I had had girls before boys. Katie loves to help me sweep and clean the kitchen. She wants to help me cook all of the time.

She likes to play with Polly Pockets. She will play baby dolls occasionally, and likes to build with blocks. She colors a lot, and loves to write me love notes.

We celebrated Katie's birthday with Papa Joe, and Grandma Shirley and Papa Ken. Weather prevented other family members from coming.

Katie requested a rainbow cake.

She's growing up way too fast. She can just stop at six. Forever.

WE LOVE YOU KATIE BELLE!

"Exalt her, and she will promote you; She will bring you honor, when you embrace her." Proverbs 4:8

Thankful Thursday

2010-02-25T20:26:00.003-06:00

My dad pointed out to me this morning that it has been quite a while since I've blogged, so here is my attempt to liven things up here.

* I'm thankful my dad retired so he has more time to come do projects at my house. We (he) are (is) currently working on the entryway, and will make our (his) way into the kitchen for some sprucing up there. I'll post some before and after photos soon.

* I'm thankful that it's the end of February. Spring is getting closer!

* I'm thankful that basketball is over, although I really miss it, too. We have enjoyed spending more evenings home with the little ones this week.

* I'm thankful for Shannon. I love him.

* I'm thankful I finally finished the project I started back in early January for the little kids. My sewing machine is finally out of the dining room. I'll post pictures soon.

"The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way, But the folly of fools is deceit." Proverbs 14:8

Thankful Thursday

2010-02-04T10:29:00.002-06:00

~~I'm thankful that I have so many things to be thankful for.

~~I'm thankful that the body of Christ is so large and overlaps so much that I can receive prayer requests from several seemingly unrelated sources for the same request. Our God is so good.

~~I'm thankful that my children have been given opportunities to serve.

~~I'm thankful that today is the last day of middle school basketball. I will certainly miss going to games, but will also enjoy the added time at home.

~~I'm thankful for Shannon.

~~I'm thankful that my dad is willing to come over and finish the trim in the dining room and living room.

"The highway of the upright is to depart from evil; He who keeps his way preserves his soul." Proverbs 16:17

My Trough

2010-01-30T09:53:00.004-06:00

Where no oxen are, the trough is clean;
But much increase comes by the strength of an ox.
Proverbs 14:4

This morning I am faced with baking a rainbow cake for Katie's birthday party tomorrow, finishing sewing Katie's (and Hudson's) birthday present, and cleaning my house--all before 1:00 P.M. I'm feeling overwhelmed, so I got on the computer. Actually, I got on the computer to look up the rainbow cake instructions, but got sidetracked.

I've been lamenting the fact that lately my house never seems to be clean. We've spent a huge amount of time at basketball games lately, and it seems like I do school and clean all day, but when we leave in the evenings, the little kids mess it all up again. It's a never ending cycle. Imagine how many more times our toilets get flushed each day compared to the average household of two working parents, with two public schooled kids.

My point is, I've got a lot of oxen.

That's the way we planned it, and I wouldn't have it any other way. I feel comforted to know that it's scriptural that my house isn't spotless. It most likely won't ever be, because by the time all of my children are grown and gone, I'll have a houseful of grandchildren running around.

I'm going to go get the strength of my oxen moving, and we'll have this place ship-shape in no time.

Thankful Thursday

2010-01-28T22:26:00.004-06:00

~Today is Katie's 6th birthday. She is such a joy. Girls are so different from boys, and I'm enjoying each and every moment of her transformation from little girl to big girl. I'm so thankful for her. I'll post more about Katie later.

~Today our friend Julie lost her fight with cancer and is now safe in the arms of Jesus. It breaks my heart that her husband and children will not have the privilege of growing old with her. God is in control. Always. Like it or not. I'm thankful I had the opportunity to know her and be her friend.

"A man's heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps." Proverbs 16:9

Winter Formal 2010

2010-01-27T12:20:00.005-06:00

Alex and Jackson decided that they wanted to attend the annual Winter Formal at the school this year.

Alex invited Jordin.

Jackson went with Abbie.

"Do not give your strength to women, nor your ways to that which destroys kings." Proverbs 31:3

Hudson's 3rd Birthday

2010-01-25T13:46:00.005-06:00

Back on January 9th Hudson turned three. We celebrated by having family over and eating cake and ice cream. I think perhaps this was the last sunny day we've had all month.

When I asked Hudson to smile for me, this is what I got.

We have a rule around our house. You can't have your third birthday until you're potty-trained. Well, Hudson made a valiant effort, and did quite well for several weeks. Once his birthday was over and he had collected his loot, he regressed and has not been very successful lately. Why, after training seven other children, is this one so difficult?

Aside from the potty issues, Hudson is a joy to have around. He is generally a happy little guy, and is talking up a storm. He definitely knows how to make his wishes known. He recently discovered the TV show 'Yo Gabba Gabba', and would be content to sit mindlessly in front of the TV all day watching it. From my perspective, a little of that goes a loooooong way. He's also a big Diego fan. He enjoys building with blocks and playing Mario Kart on the Wii.

We love you Hudson!

"When I was my father's son, tender and the only one in the sight of my mother," Proverbs 4:3

New Year's Eve

2010-01-21T12:35:00.006-06:00

We hosted our annual NYE party again this year. Our kids are growing, and the number of people who come keeps growing, but we love it!

We rented the gym at the middle school so we could play all evening. I tried counting bodies at one time, and came up with 49. I can't say for sure that that is accurate, since everyone was moving at the time. We had bbq pork sandwiches, chips, lots of snacks, cake, and juice.

Colton and Ashleigh

Jocee, Naomi and Katie

Big boys playing basketball

Sam, Jackson, Jordin and Chelsea

Noah and Jeff

More big boys playing basketball

Jeff helping Julie do the rip-stick

I wanted so badly to get a picture of all of the kids. Reagan graduates from high school this year, and I'm afraid we won't all be together for many more years. But I forgot. I'm still kicking myself.

As usual, we ate too much, slept too little, and had a GREAT time. On New Year's Day we moved the party to Troy and Theresa's house, and ate even more. We really enjoy this tradition, and hope to continue it in the future.

"A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." Proverbs 18:24

Christmas 2009

2010-01-21T12:10:00.007-06:00

Better late than never, huh?

Here are a few pictures from our celebrations. We went to my parents on Christmas Eve, opened gifts at home Christmas morning, then met Shannon's family on Christmas afternoon.

The family finally convinced me to put up a tree again this year. I'm a bit of a Scrooge, and hate the mess and clutter of getting Christmas decorations out. But alas, I complied. Shannon and the kids did the decorating. I didn't get any pictures of the tree, though. After decorating the tree, we turned out all of the lights to admire our work. I was in the living room reading a book, and suddenly heard Colton, Katie, Naomi and Hudson singing 'Away in the Manger'. I glanced into the dining room, and they were standing arm in arm, swaying back and forth as they sang in front of the tree.

I guess that's why we should decorate a tree each year.

This year, because we were running out of time and the weather was less than desirable, we bought a once live tree at Home Depot rather than picking one and chopping our own down. It wasn't ideal, but it worked. I even managed to have all of the gifts wrapped a couple days before Christmas.

We hope you all had a blessed holiday season.

"The righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him." Proverbs 20:7

What 40 looks like

2010-01-21T12:04:00.002-06:00

Shannon turned 40 on December 21st. We celebrated by going out for dinner the day before, and we surprised him with cake at the office. He just keeps getting better and better!

"For the LORD will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being caught." Proverbs 3:26

Hudson's New Look

2010-01-21T11:53:00.004-06:00

It seems lately that any time I get the camera out and aim it at Hudson, this is his reaction.

How long can I expect this to last?

"A lying tongue hates those who are crushed by it, and a flattering mouth works ruin." Proverbs 26:28

Thankful Thursday

2010-01-21T11:10:00.002-06:00

I'm way behind on blogging. It seems that dealing with children, school, keeping up the house, cooking, various projects, and multiple basketball games each week have taken up all of my time. Maybe I'll catch up and post some holiday pictures, maybe not. Time will tell.

*I'm thankful for my Homeschool Tracker program on my laptop. It keeps all of my student's lesson plans organized, and let's them know what needs to be done each day.

*I'm thankful for my sewing machine. I'm working on a project for the little kids, and it would be a monstrous undertaking if I had to sew by hand.

*I'm thankful for our dog, Checkers. He loves us.

*I'm thankful Jackson didn't need stitches when he got bonked in the head while playing basketball. Although it bled a lot, it was just a little scratch.

*I'm thankful for Shannon.

*I'm thankful for my warm house.

*I'm thankful we were able to get a replacement disc for Chase's broken science disc at a fraction of the original cost.

*I'm thankful that I only have one more load of laundry to do today.

"The integrity of the upright will guide them..." Proverbs 11:3a

Thankful Thursday

2010-01-07T11:23:00.002-06:00

~I am thankful for snow. Shannon is staying home with us this afternoon, and bringing pizza with him!

~I am thankful for pull-ups. Hudson is having his ups and downs with the whole potty-training thing.

~I am thankful for slippers. My feet are chilly.

~I am thankful for God's protection. Alex went in the ditch last night, but was not injured.

~I am thankful for my girls. They make me smile.

~I am thankful for my boys. They keep me on my toes.

~I am thankful for the holiday break we got from school. I needed it. Too bad we can't take a semester break...

~I am thankful for my friends. They recharge my batteries.

~I'm thankful for my nail gun. It helps me finish lots of projects, and it's fun to use.

~I'm thankful for Shannon. Just because.

~I'm thankful for our corn stove. It makes it nice and toasty warm in our house.

"Hear, my son, and be wise; And guide your heart in the way." Proverbs 23:7

Thankful Thursday

2009-12-10T22:19:00.003-06:00

* I am thankful for the family time we got to spend together this week. Nearly a foot of snow and 40+ MPH winds will do that to a family.

* I am thankful that we are no longer snowed in. The plow came by about 11:30 this morning, so Shannon was able to work this afternoon.

* I am thankful for groceries. We made a trip into town tonight to stock up. My fridge is full, my pantry is full, and my belly is full.

* I am thankful for the tractor and blade to move all of the snow. Actually, Shannon is more thankful, because he has been the one out in the cold taking care of it. They boys helped, too.

"Let not mercy and truth forsake you; Bind them around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart," Proverbs 3:3

Thankful Thursday

2009-12-03T14:17:00.004-06:00

I'm thankful for Hudson. He will be three next month. He's all boy. He's loud. He's snuggly. He's messy. He climbs. He jumps. He helps himself to anything he wants. He's talking up a storm. He's just as happy wrestling with the big boys, as playing by himself. He loves blocks and cars.

Yesterday, this is what I found him doing.

Over, and over, and over. Giggling the whole time.

He makes me happy.

"In the way of righteousness is life, and in its pathway there is no death." Proverbs 12:28

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-12-01T13:52:00.006-06:00

We hosted Thanksgiving dinner at our home again this year. We only had 17 at the table, so in comparison, it was a smaller group than usual. Grandma Shirley and Papa Ken came, Papa Joe came, as well as Shannon's sister Carrie, her husband Jason, and their two boys, Will and Ben. We also invited Homer, a gentleman from our church, to spend the day with us. Bryce spent the weekend with my sister's family. It just didn't feel right not having him with us.

I started cooking and baking on Wednesday. The kitchen smelled yummy all day. I think we finished about 11:00P.M. I didn't take many pictures, because, well, I was busy cooking. Here are a few shots I did get.

Upside Down Pear Cranberry Cake before...

...and after.

Blueberry Pie

We had two kinds of turkey, ham, stuffing, cranberry sauce, green beans, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, applesauce jello, rolls, corn muffins, pumpkin pie, apple pie, blueberry pie, pumpkin cheesecake, upside down pear cranberry cake, cinnamon ice cream, crackers & cheese, and I can't think of anything else. It sure seemed like a lot of food.

Mom and I figured we had over 18 hours of cooking time involved. We were done eating in about 45 minutes.

Papa Ken always helps with the dishes.

Grandma Shirley played Yahtzee with the kids.

The guys all went outside to play football after dinner. They were outside just long enough to work up an appetite for dessert.

All of our guests left by about 4:00P.M. We spent the rest of the day lounging around and planning our strategy for Black Friday shopping.

We're thankful for each one that was with us on Thanksgiving. Hope you all had a great holiday!

"If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat; And if he is thirsty, give him water to drink;" Proverbs 25:22

Thankful Thursday

2009-11-25T22:15:00.007-06:00

What more appropriate day is there to post a 'Thankful Thursday' post than today?

* I'm thankful for my God, the One True God. He alone is worthy.

* I'm thankful for Shannon. He is an amazing man. I love him thoroughly.

* I'm thankful for Alex. He's growing up too fast. It seems he's gone more these days than he is home. I miss him when he isn't here.

* I'm thankful for Jackson. He makes me smile. He's got freakishly long arms. I love him anyway.

* I'm thankful for Chase. He's a smartypants. He's snarky, and has a great sense of humor. He still tells me he loves me.

* I'm thankful for Bryce. He's spending Thanksgiving with my sister's family. I miss him like crazy. He should be here with us.

* I'm thankful for Colton. He's crafty. He's flighty. He's always thinking about something. He still sits on my lap.

* I'm thankful for Katie. She helped me cook all day yesterday. She chatters nonstop. She walks through the house on her tippy-toes. She likes to dance. She's growing up too fast.

* I'm thankful for Naomi. She really, truly believes that she is a princess. She wears a purple tiara. I'm not about to tell her any differently.

* I'm thankful for Hudson. I love the way he says "Yeah," when I ask him questions. I love it when he pats me on the back with his little hand. He's silly.

I have so incredibly much to be thankful for.

I have been blessed.

What an awesome God I serve!

"The rich and the poor have this in common, The LORD is the maker of them all." Proverbs 22:2

Pancake School

2009-11-24T12:42:00.005-06:00

Yesterday morning we made pancakes for breakfast. I got the creative idea from Becky's blog. I'm not one to get up early to make breakfast most mornings, but this time I felt inspired. We simply added food coloring to the pancake batter. Easy!

As all the children gathered around to help, we had the opportunity to learn a lot of things. In fact, I was almost convinced that after breakfast, we wouldn't even have to do any more school for the rest of the day.

Math: We multiplied the recipe by four, then measured all of the ingredients.

Science: We talked about diffusion of the color throughout the pancake batter. When you stir and speed up the molecules, the color spreads faster.

Art: We mixed colors and made patterns in the pancakes.

Home Ec: cooking

Reading: We read the recipe from the cookbook.

Writing: If I had boys who liked to write, I would have had them write about the experience. That's girly. We don't do that.

We did end up doing all of our school work for the day. It was the right thing to do.

"Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety." Proverbs 11:14

Alex's Golden Birthday

2009-11-21T12:14:00.006-06:00

November 17th was Alex's 17th birthday. Wow.

His day started by getting up early and working his garbage route. Then he came home for awhile, and we had some birthday cake.

He requested chocolate cake this year. This recipe just happened to be in my inbox, so that's what I made. YUM! Only 961 calories per piece. Seriously.

We had bought him a new laptop the week before for a birthday present, so there weren't any gifts to open. Soon after, he went to basketball practice.

Alex is growing into a man. It is our desire that he continue to grow spiritually, and that he do all things for God's glory. I know he'll make us proud.

Time is flowing by so quickly.

I really need it to slow down.

I'm not ready to let go yet.

Happy birthday, Alex. We love you!

"A wise man will hear and increase learning, and a man of understanding will attain wise counsel." Proverbs 1:5

Thankful Thursday

2009-11-19T23:40:00.003-06:00

It's almost midnight, so I have to type fast--or as fast as I can one-handed, because Hudson is sleeping on me.

*I'm thankful for the miracles God performed in our friends the Kamberger's lives this week.

*I'm thankful for my home.

*I'm thankful for sunshine.

*I'm thankful for my family.

*I'm thankful we're healthy.

*I'm thankful I've lost 18 pounds so far.

"The LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding." Proverbs 2:6

Time Away

2009-11-14T18:11:00.010-06:00

We were able to take a little bit of time recently to spend a night away with the family. We went to the Wasserbahn Water Resort in the Amana Colonies. We also did a little shopping at the Tanger Outlet in Williamsburg.

It wasn't huge, but it was fun. The kids enjoyed the time away, and Shannon and I did, too.

Basketball practice starts November 16th. Games begin November 30th. There won't be much time for get aways until the season ends.

"For whoever finds me finds life, and obtains favor from the LORD." Proverbs 8:35

Lincoln Logs

2009-11-14T17:59:00.004-06:00

We have had Lincoln Logs for years. Some times they don't get played with for years, it seems. But once in awhile, usually after we have cleaned bedrooms and sorted through the toy boxes, the children will 'rediscover' them, and play with them.

One afternoon it occurred to me that Hudson was missing, so I went searching for him. I found him in Bryce and Colton's room, building grand things.

He was quite pleased with himself.

"The LORD possessed me at the beginning of His way, before His works of old." Proverbs 8:22

Jodi's Diet Update

2009-11-14T17:27:00.002-06:00

It's been a little over three weeks since I started my Forty by Forty campaign. My first week, I had a little progress.

I have been watching calories, and power walking three miles per day, with some pilates thrown in as time allows. I am not a very patient person, and expect immediate results. That wasn't happening as quickly as I wanted, so I decided to jump start things with a Master Cleanse.

I did this about two and a half years ago. You can google it for details, but it basically consists of fasting for 10 days, while drinking a mixture of lemon juice, grade B maple syrup, and cayenne pepper. Yum. I have found that I tolerate the cayenne better if I take it in capsule form, rather than adding it to the lemonade mixture. It tastes better, too. You can also have as much water as you want.

The theory is to detox the body, and remove all waste.

I haven't eaten since Monday evening, and I'm feeling great.

I weighed myself on Friday, and had lost 10 pounds since I had started dieting.

I feel great. I've not had any hunger pangs. Shannon has been great about taking over most of the cooking, so I haven't had to deal with that.

It's crazy how often I'll walk into the kitchen and automatically pick something up to eat, even though I'm not hungry. Although I'm not feeling hungry, food still looks good.

We brought home Papa Murphy's pizza for lunch today, and it was quite tempting to smell, then watch everyone eat it. I managed to mix and bake all of the sugar cookies last week without snitching any, which was a huge accomplishment!

I've been exercising normally, and although I felt a bit drained on Day 3, it has improved since then. I'll keep you posted on my progress.

Sugar Cookies--Assembly Line Style

2009-11-14T14:07:00.007-06:00

Every year in November the city of Reinbeck hosts a Holiday Season kick-off called 'Miracle on Main'. Businesses on Main Street stay open late, have open houses, and activities are planned for community members to participate in. There is story time at City Hall, ornament making, visits from Santa, wine tasting, chain saw ice sculptors, horse-drawn trolley rides, and other small town festivities.

Shannon's office was chosen this year to host the drawing for $50.00 in Reinbeck Bucks, to be spent in local businesses. We were told to expect high traffic through the office as town folk signed up.

We have an open house for Miracle on Main every year, serving cookies and hot apple cider. We chose not to serve drinks this year, mostly because it gets really messy. As I planned how many cookies to bake, I just couldn't decide how many to make.

I started out making six batches of Betty Crocker's Soft, No-Roll Sugar Cookies. I'll include the recipe at the end of the post. They're easy, and yummy. Later that evening I mixed up four more batches, just in case.

At 8:00 p.m. we were ready to start baking. These are the times a large family really comes in handy.

I manned the cookie dough scoop, and handed off to Alex.

Alex rolled them into nice little balls,

and passed them to Katie and Colton, who rolled them in sugar.

Jackson's job was to arrange them on cookie sheets, squish with a glass, then add red sugar sprinkles to the top.

Shannon was in charge of the ovens. He was baking three sheets at a time--two in the top oven, one in the bottom oven. Shannon was the photographer tonight, so we have no pictures of him.

Chase was in charge of removing the baked cookies from the sheets, cooling, then counting them as he packed them in tupperware.

Bryce was in charge of keeping Hudson off the kitchen table and keeping the guys up to the minute on the football game. Naomi helped here and there.

Two and a half hours later, we had scooped, rolled, sugared, squished, sprinkled, baked, cooled, tallied...........51 DOZEN cookies. Apparently Betty Crocker makes her cookies bigger than I do.

And we still had cookie dough in the fridge.

Friday morning I baked 14 dozen MORE sugar cookies. That's a total of 65 dozen cookies (780 cookies) , not counting those that broke or got a little too done along the way.

Needless to say, we had plenty of cookies. My mom made some cookies, too. We had tons of leftovers. They're all in my freezer now. Waiting for the next occasion to share.

Betty Crocker's Soft No-Roll Sugar Cookies

PREP: 20 min. CHILL: 2 hr. BAKE: 13-15 min per sheet
YIELD: About 3-1/2 dozen cookies

1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup butter or margarine, softened (I use butter)
3/4 cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon vanilla
2 large eggs
4-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup granulated sugar.

1. In large bowl, beat 1 cup granulated sugar, the powdered sugar, butter, oil, milk, vanilla and eggs with electric mixer on medium speed, or mix with a spoon. Stir in flour, baking soda, cream of tartar and salt. Cover and refrigerate about 2 hours or until firm.

2. Heat oven to 350 degrees F.

3. Shape dough into 1-1/2 inch balls. Place 1/2 cup granulated sugar in small bow. Roll balls in sugar. On ungreased cookie sheet, place balls about 3 inches apart. Press bottom of drinking glass on each ball until about 1/4 inch thick (I don't squish them quite this much). Sprinkle each cookie with a little additional sugar.

4. Bake 13 to 15 minutes or until set and edges just begin to turn brown. Immediately remove from cookie sheet to wire rack.

As I posted this, I realized we did not get any pictures of the finished product. Oops.

"So your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine." Proverbs 3:10

Thankful Thursday

2009-11-12T11:48:00.001-06:00

+ I'm thankful that my husband likes to cook.

+ I'm thankful for lemons. More on that later.

+ I'm thankful for my laptop.

+ I'm thankful for sugar cookies. Lots of them.

+ I'm thankful that Shannon was Valedictorian of his high school class.

+ I'm thankful that Shannon knows how to do a magic square, or at least he did in high school.

+ I'm thankful that Hudson is talking so much these days.

+ I'm thankful that Jesus died on the cross for MY sins.

+ I'm thankful for our youth group kids.

+ I'm thankful we have enough vehicles to get us where we are going.

+ I'm thankful that BASKETBALL starts next week, even though it means the rat-race will begin again.

"The eyes of the LORD preserve knowledge, but He overthrows the words of the faithless." Proverbs 22:12

Thankful Thursday

2009-11-05T10:51:00.007-06:00

*I'm thankful for Chase and his dry sense of humor.

* I'm thankful for cappuccino in my Kum & Go free refill cup. It gets me moving!

*I'm thankful for safety while taking a quick getaway with the family earlier this week.

*I'm thankful for the sunshine and weather in the 60's that's forecasted for this weekend.

*I'm thankful for hand-me-downs.

*I'm thankful that we were able to find basketball shoes in size 14 for Jackson--even if it meant having them sent to us from New York, and even though they charged my credit card twice. We're working on getting that resolved.

* I'm thankful for paper towels.

*I'm thankful for Shannon and my family.

*I'm thankful for the opportunity to spend some alone time with Shannon this weekend.

*I'm thankful for my Sunday School class. I enjoy discussing things with them, and getting to the 'meat and potatoes' of scripture and how it translates to everyday life.

*I'm thankful for ITBS and ITEDS. They help me evaluate how my students are progressing.

*I'm thankful for my dog. He loves me.

*I'm thankful for brownies. Colton baked some for breakfast this morning, and it made everyone smile.

"There is no wisdom or understanding or counsel against the LORD." Proverbs 21:30

Words of Wisdom

2009-10-30T15:47:00.003-05:00

I have several blogs that I follow regularly. Some are local friends, some live far away.

Once in awhile a post will hit me, and I think to myself, "I could have written those words!". Generally, these other bloggers are much more eloquent than I, so today I am copying and pasting a post from MckMama's blog.

I don't recall how I first came to find her blog, but I like it. She's real. She tells it like it is. She takes great photos. She loves her kids. She's not afraid to post about the everyday, hard things in life.

This is long, but it's good. Don't read too much into this, and assume that Shannon and I are heading off to marriage counseling. Shannon is a super-duper wonderful guy, and I love him tremendously. But there are times he really gets on my nerves. We fight, and we've gotten really good at it. We've been married long enough to know what jabs really hurt, and which ones merely glance off the other person. I'm not proud of that, it's just the way it is sometimes.

So. Here are MckMama's words of wisdom.

marriage, submitting, forgiving and ducking

I have unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on how you want to look at it) given my husband ample opportunities to learn to forgive over the course of our six year marriage. That might sound really benevolent, for me to offer him so many chances to practice forgiveness. But really, if you were a fly on the wall of our marriage, you'd feel differently. Trust me.

You see, at my best, I can be picture perfect, witty and cute, organized and together, a great mother and a charming hostess. I may be a photo editing fool and weave long (interesting?) tales about outings with our children on my blog. When I am on, I am a good wife, kind and loving to my husband, seeking to submit to him the way God wants me to and striving to honor him with my words and actions.

But when I am off, believe me, I am off. In the darkness of private disagreements I'd much rather forget than blog about*, I have sworn like a sailor at my beloved. At my worst, I can be pompous and self righteous, a know-it-all who would rather shove what I think to be right down my husband's throat than listen with an open ear to his side. I can be rude and condescending, unwilling to be the first to repent and to forgive my spouse. There have been times when, should my husband have decided to do so, he would have had every justification to call the cops on me for harassing him. There are times when things haven't been pretty between us. And I am going to share today some of the things I have learned through living in the trenches like my husband and I have.

What I said above (*) begs the question, then. If, indeed, I would much rather forget arguments that I've had with my husband than blog about them, then why on earth am I blogging about them instead of just forgetting them!? Great question. You see, I would rather just brush the truth about my disagreements under the rug and call it good, moving along to a fun post about what a happy family we are. But if I have learned one thing since becoming a wife and a mother it is that it does no one any good to lie to others about the reality of our lives.

I'll say that again. It does no one any good to lie, either overtly or by omission, to others about the reality of our lives.

I am certainly not saying that I think it is good or profitable to share all the intimate details of one's marriage. Some private struggles should be just that: private. And I believe very strongly in building up our spouses and speaking well of them. But as hard as it can sometimes be to expose ourselves, if both spouses are on board with sharing, then I think we do ourselves and our fellow man good when we share the truth about life's hard times, even if it hurts.

For example, there is mother truth like, yes, having a newborn is wonderfully fantastic and beautiful, but also your nipples hurt like heck, your body is sloughing off hormones and making you a raging mess, your husband just doesn't understand and is a big fat sissy when it's time to get up in the night, your baby's crying that others think is cute makes you insane and bonding with a newborn may not happen instantly, especially when your perineum hurts like a mother.

Sometimes, it can be beneficial for you and for those you share with to be honest, to share the real deal about life, without sugar coating it as my pride sometimes causes me to do.

And so, even if it might be embarrassing, my husband and I have decided to share truth about marriage with others when we are given the chance. Sure being married is great, finding your soul mate or whatever you want to call it is fantastic, having a partner for life makes you feel complete and experiencing true, deep love is the most amazing feeling ever. But what about the hard truths about marriage, too? We think those are important to share as well. I think they are important to share so that we don't lie to ourselves, fooling us into thinking we are somehow better than others, and so that we don't discourage others who may be walking similar, unspoken paths.

In my experience, for as great as marriage definitely is, it also can really suck. Being paired with the same person for life can be overwhelming when you consider all of your spouse's many flaws that you are just going to have to put up with, forever. Talk about de-romanticizing marriage! Life is not all sugar and dewdrops after you say I do. The distant feelings, slamming doors, cold shoulders and talk of divorce that creep into in many marriages are not welcome additions to the happily ever after any of us envisioned when we first got engaged.

But additions they are, at least for my marriage. And I truly see no real point in glossing over the painful parts of marriage to those I speak to or blog with. Why would I? So I can avoid embarrassment? And then leave you all feeling like you must be the only one who sometimes feel disillusioned with marriage?

Sorry, not gonna do it. I am pretty sure God didn't allow me to have a widely read blog so I could blow sunshine about how cute and perfect my children and marriage are. I mean, of course I love to focus on the positive. I am by nature an optimist and that is how I choose to parent and (for the most part) act as a wife. I feel strongly about being neither gloom and doom nor a Negative Nelly. But sometimes, this time being one of them, I think it is good to share the hard truths about marriage.

But you don't have to take it from me. I'm not a marriage expert. I'm just a married person who has been in the trenches. Sometimes that's where I still am. I am definitely not here to preach, advise or counsel. So you definitely don't have to take it from me. In fact, please don't take it from me. Take it from God, listen to Him, hear what He just may be trying to tell you about your marriage through our story.

And what a story it is.

You see, my husband has also given me plenty of chances to hone my own forgiveness skills as well. And hone them I have been, slowly but surely. I won't say that it's been an easy road for us, because it hasn't, this learning to forgive. The reasons we have had so many chances to forgive each other is because we have wounded each other deeply. There is absolutely no excuse or reason for being so unkind to one's spouse, but I will admit that the issues we've faced have seemed insurmountable at times. In the past year and a half alone, we've faced a very poor prenatal diagnosis for our baby, sudden financial hardships and relationship struggles of majestic proportions. My husband and I have had altercations I would never wish on another that ended with police involvement. I have been awful to him; he has been awful to me. We have endured a separation and even, in our anger, seriously considered divorce a little over a year ago.

It was the most pain and hurt and disillusionment I have ever felt in my entire life.

But we chose to stay together. We decided not to get divorced. And then we started going to marriage counseling. Slowly, God began to rock our shattered world. And every Wednesday, as we have for well over a year now, we still go see Dr. R, who himself has rocked our world by helping us uncover many truths about marriage, too. I have learned to submit, to forgive and to duck.

What's that? After all we've been through, do I still believe in submission as I wrote it in this post?

Hell yes.

I apologize if my use of profanity offends, but that is simply how strongly I feel about this. Whether my beliefs on submission that I have blogged about and that I chose to (try to) abide by are understood by others or not, they are right, they are Biblical, and they work.

The fact that my marriage is alive (and very well!) after what my husband and I have been through is proof of that.

Submission is not being a doormat. Submission is not just rolling over and accepting bad behavior. Submission is not turning the other cheek on an abusive spouse who refuses to get help. Submission is not a life sentence for women to feel inferior.

Quite the contrary. For me, submission is beautiful. Submission has meant freedom for me. Living with the knowledge and emotional freedom that I do not control my spouse has been liberating for me. Gone (or, going) are the days when I struggle to try to change my husband. I have given up trying to show him the error of his ways. You see, I think that as wives, it is not our job to fix or punish our husbands with our judgements, cold shoulders or loud decrees. Instead, as I once heard it put, it is our job to simply duck so that God can punch our husbands when they need it.

And so I have been practicing ducking.

By getting out of the way of what God wants to teach my husband, I remove distractions that may be in my husband's way for him to hear God directly. Distractions like my really annoying behavior when I would try to get my point across to my husband about what a louse he was being.

And a reciprocating effect is in place. I am not really sure who started it. My husband and I both have learned immeasurable amounts in counseling. We have both gotten out of trying to be each other's consciences. We are each trying to hard to focus on ourselves and on what we can each do, individually, to help our marriage. Because five years of blame, finger pointing and always wanting to make it the other person's fault got us nowhere.

Well, it didn't get us nowhere. It got us somewhere, that's for sure. But separated, filled with hate and on the verge of divorce was nowhere we wanted to be. So we got the heck outta Dodge. With all the glory for that due entirely to God. Well, almost entirely. Many thousands of thanks also go to to Dr. R, our superb marriage counselor.

So is our marriage 100% healthy? Are we entirely out of the woods now? Nope. I'm not sure, but I wonder if any marriage really ever is. Staying married, being determined to love, submit, respect, honor and forgive our spouses is a daily fight for us, as I imagine it might be for you, too. Choosing to act and think out of love toward our spouse instead of wanting to crack the whip of control or shout cries of fairness and equality is a moment by moment decision, an ever present struggle.

But don't get me wrong. It has gotten easier during this past year and a half, though, to act right towards each other. The more I respect my husband, the more he shows love to me. The more my husband forgives me, the easier it becomes for me to show him forgiveness in return. It is a beautiful circle when it works the way I believe God wants it to.

But hear me now: I have learned that it is of paramount importance for us to love, respect and forgive our spouses even when they are not doing the same for us.

Indeed, especially when they are not doing the same for us. I know, I know. That can sound like such decades old drivel. So against what seems fair, right and just. So doormat inducing and just plain wrong.

But all I know is that what I have learned in that statement has worked for us. Our marriage has been revolutionized, brought back from the dead, and I fully believe that my decision to trust what God says about marriage will always work, because like it or not, He does know what He's talking about.

Do I want you to stay in a marriage if you are being beaten, just laying there like a doormat? Heavens no! Please don't misinterpret what I am trying to say here. There are certainly situations that require dramatic rescue. A domestic abuse hotline, a Biblically based Christian counselor, a separation, getting immediately out of danger....these things may need to take place before true healing can come. And there are, unfortunately, times when healing is not at all possible for the marriage, if one party refuses to change. There are times when one spouse just needs to get out because the situation is simply not safe. But in those cases, there can still be individual healing for that person, even if the marriage was lost and the relationship ends.

But there is hope and healing for hurting marriages that are still intact, too. Even dreadfully wounded marriages that are bleeding all over the place while the spouses try to pretend like things are not really that bad. There is hope for those marriages, too. I know, because my husband and I have been there.

And now, we are here. And we are beyond thankful and amazed at the miracle that we believe God performed in our hearts and in our marriage.

So, I've talked about ducking and letting God shape our spouse, about what I believe it means to Biblically submit to our husbands, and now I would like to leave you with a few of the most important things about forgiveness that I have learned to be true for my life and have most impacted my marriage.

And then I'll be done. I promise.

Forgiveness is a choice.

Whether or not I feel forgiveness in my heart is not an indicator of whether or not I should forgive my husband. I used to hold back my forgiveness until he came to me with forgiveness first, or until enough time passed that I was not mad anymore, or until I just plain felt like forgiving him.

But I have been slowly learning that to forgive my husband is a choice I must make. A wise woman once told me that the feelings of forgiveness often follow that choice. But even if they don't, forgiveness has still been the best choice for me to make, simply because God tells us to forgive (and because He has forgiven us much!).

Forgiveness is for me.

Before we went to marriage counseling, I used to think that forgiveness was a gift I could bestow upon my husband. Something I could give to him when I was ready, dissolving the guilt of his wrongdoings for him. And, conversely, I could also withhold forgiveness, continuing to be cold, heaping guilt for his actions upon his shoulders in a failed attempt to show him the error of his ways so he would be repentant.

Um, that like so totally did not work.

A huge 1000 watt lightbulb went off in my head when our counselor told me that forgiveness is for me. As it relates to human forgiveness, forgiveness is for the forgiver, not for the forgiven. Whether my husband ever changed or not, I was going to want and need to forgive him so that I didn't live a long life of unhappy bitterness. And the same went for my husband. He has had to work very hard at forgiving me for inflaming situations in the ways I have and for countless other grievances.

But learning that forgiveness is for me has been revolutionary to my way of thinking.

Forgiveness is not a one time act.

Like it or not, when I forgive my husband for whatever it is he has done to hurt me, that may not the end of it for me. Feelings of hurt and anger can still creep back in, hours, days, even months later. Just as it is a process to daily die to ourselves and our own selfish desires, so is it with forgiveness. I sometimes must daily return to my decision to forgive my husband for not being perfect even when I am starting to not feel like it again.

So, dear readers, take all this with a grain of salt for your own marriage, if you want. After all, my husband and I are far from perfect. But after having lived a while ourselves in the trenches, we have decided we feel no reason to either hide the painful truth about how difficult marriage can be or to keep the sweet gems of knowledge we are starting to learn about healing a hurting marriage and learning to find contentment with one's spouse to ourselves.

Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to do some more ducking so I can allow God to work on my husband, while I focus on daily forgiveness and Biblical submission. After all, the only thing I can control is what I can do to help my marriage. Spending time on trying to fix him would be pointless anyway. You see, I am learning to stop longing for a changed husband, and I long now for a heart soft enough to hear and receive what God wants to teach me about becoming the wife He wants me to be.

Walking hand in hand with my husband as he, too, is growing to become more of the husband God wants him to be has just been the icing on the cake.

MckMama

She's got some good stuff, huh? Please forgive me if I've broken some 'blog plagerism' rule, but I have attempted to give all credit to MckMama for the above words. I think that's three time's I've linked back to her, just for the record.

While we're on the subject of MckMama (4), please take some time to pray for her son, Stellan. He's is a sick little boy right now. You can learn more by stopping by her blog (5).

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6

Forty by Forty

2009-10-29T17:57:00.004-05:00

That's my goal.

I'd like to lose 40 pounds by the time I turn 40. That date is fast approaching. I have about 15 weeks left.

This is my last ditch effort to "go public" and try to keep myself accountable.

In ten days I've walked 30 miles and lost 3.5 lbs. That's not quite the progress I would like for my first week, but I feel good and seem to have more energy. I suppose if I maintain that rate each week, I'll be on target.

I'm not posting any before photos. Maybe, if I'm successful, I'll post an after photo in February. If unsuccessful, maybe I'll end up measuring 40" X 40".

"Have you found honey? Eat only as much as you need, Lest you be filled with it and vomit." Proverbs 25:16

Thankful Thursday

2009-10-29T17:16:00.005-05:00

I don't know why it's been so long since I last blogged.

Life has been somewhat less busy as football slowly dwindled to an end. Our last game was last Friday, with a disappointing end to our varsity season with a loss to Grundy Center, our long-time rivals. It was a game we probably shouldn't have lost, but alas, it is what it is.

Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His love endures forever.
Psalm 107:1

~~I am thankful that I no longer have football pads and uniforms strewn throughout my house/cars/garage. I'm not missing the extra laundry, either.

~~I am thankful that my laundry is caught up (nice segue from the previous one, huh?).

~~I am thankful that soccer will be over on Saturday.

~~I am thankful that we were able to get the garage cleaned on Tuesday.

~~I am thankful that I'm married to Shannon.

~~I am thankful that we finally got the cracked windshield fixed in the van. I can think of a lot of other ways I would have liked to spend $250, but it sure is nice not to have to look around the crack while driving/riding. Pray that this is the last time we'll have to fix the windshield, although I'm not holding my breath, as we live on a gravel road.

~~I'm thankful for the warmer weather we had earlier in the week.

~~I'm thankful for the opportunity to join a Book Club and the chance to get together with some awesome ladies.

~~I'm thankful for healthy little children who can climb trees.

"Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life." Proverbs 4:23

Homecoming 2009

2009-10-18T17:36:00.007-05:00

Last weekend was Gladbrook-Reinbeck's Homecoming. The Rebels beat Nashua-Plainfield in the football game Friday night. The Homecoming Dance was scheduled for Saturday evening, and both Alex and Jackson chose to attend.

These are some pictures I took prior to them leaving to pick up their dates.

Gosh. When did they get so big? Or so handsome? I'm entitled to say these things. I'm their mom.

This is the picture of Jackson and Abbie taken at the dance. Very cute. Alex took his friend Jordin to the dance, and because they're 'just friends', he didn't spend the funds to get a professional picture taken with her.

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." Proverbs 17:17

Happy Birthday Jackson!

2009-10-18T17:15:00.004-05:00

Wednesday, October 14th Jackson celebrated his 15th birthday. Actually, there wasn't a ton of celebrating. I did give him the day off of school, though.

We baked his birthday cake on Tuesday. It was yummy!

We also took him out for dinner, and shopping for some new clothes. Who knew a 15 year old boy would want clothes for his birthday?

We love our Jack-Jack. He's a good kid. He's growing up to be a fine young man. He makes us proud.

"For whom the Lord loves He corrects, just as a father the son in whom he delights." Proverbs 3:12

Old News

2009-10-18T16:37:00.007-05:00

This is rather old news now, but because it has been such a long time since I've blogged, you'll just have to live with it.

We took Jackson's cast off a couple weeks ago. It was getting stinky. He was tired of taking showers like this.

I was running out of garbage bags.

Shannon sent him out to the garage to get some tools to remove it.

He came back in with the chain saw.

We decided to use some gardening clipper/snipper things instead. We weren't wild about the ortho doc that we had been taking Jackson to, so decided to save the time and hassle and just take the cast off ourselves.

All is well. Jackson has his last game in Denver tomorrow night. We'll be there, rain or shine. We're praying for shine.

"The north wind brings forth rain, and a backbiting tongue an angry countenance." Proverbs 25:23

Bryce's Turn

2009-10-06T22:52:00.006-05:00

Bryce was an amazingly good natured baby. He was by far my easiest labor and delivery, and my only homebirth. I'd take a bunch more just like him!

One older gentleman named Roger at our church in Nevada told me shortly after Bryce was born that he was so beautiful, he should have been a girl. I'm gonna have to agree with him!

I don't remember Bryce crying. Ever.

I don't remember Bryce being crabby. Ever.

I don't remember Bryce being a problem. Ever.

Getting big, just like his brothers.

Bryce's third birthday.

This is where we found Bryce one Christmas morning.

Be still my heart.

I love this guy.

"My son, keep my words, and treasure my commands within you." Proverbs 7:1

Chase

2009-10-06T22:05:00.004-05:00

It's Chase's turn. Several of the pictures have other brothers in them, too. I guess that's par for the course when one is the third child.

Halloween. We still have these costumes. Hudson has been seen recently wearing the Spiderman costume.

Who are these masked men?

This one is for Mary K. One afternoon while I was working upstairs, Chase decided to crack three dozen eggs on my kitchen floor. When he started, he had socks on. They got gooey, so he took them off and squished around in the eggs barefoot. There were eggs under the stove, under the fridge, everywhere. Mary stopped by as I was cleaning up the mess. I had moved Chase to the bench seat just inside the front door. Mary asked me how long I was going to make him stay there, and I answered something to the effect of, "Until he graduates". It's a funny story now, but at the time I just stood there and cried. Have you ever tried cleaning up eggs? They just slime all over the place. I ended up scooping them up with the dust pan and rinsing them down the sink. Yuck.

The start of Chase's football career.

Scarface. Chase holds the record in the family for most stitches and staples.

Playing cards with the men. I wouldn't advise going up against this guy in a game of poker.

Chase's 3rd Birthday. That's my Grandma Lu in the background.

More football pictures. Prophetic? Hmmmm.

"My son, do not forget my law, but let your heart keep my commands." Proverbs 3:1

Little Jackson

2009-10-06T16:40:00.008-05:00

Sunday we pulled out the big box of photos of the big boys...when they were little. The little kids had never seen them, at least not for a very long time.

I've scanned several of Jackson into the computer. He's such a cutie!

This one should probably be censored, but that would take all of the fun out of it.

Sleepyhead!

Team Clark

I'm guessing he was about 18 mos. here

This is the first house we ever owned.

We don't have very many pictures without at least one child with a band-aid.

Where it all began...

Friends Caitlin and Grace

Chicken pox!!!!

So sweet

And again...

Mr. Handsome

"My son, keep your father's command, and do not forsake the law of your mother." Proverbs 6:20

What the little kids do...

2009-09-28T00:11:00.007-05:00

during the big kids' football games.

Naomi digs in the dirt.

Katie dances to her own music.

Colton and Naomi search for treasure.

They play with other children.

They might climb a fence or two.

Hudson follows along with whatever the other kids are doing.

But generally, they don't watch the game.

"How much better to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver." Proverbs 16:16

Hudson's Ring Pop

2009-09-27T23:28:00.007-05:00

Several weeks ago at Chase's football game we let Colton take the little kids to the snack shack. He chose to get Hudson a ring pop. This is something I would never do. This is why.

Throw in a little (or a lot of) dirt, and it makes for a pretty fun time for a little guy.

These pictures are straight out of the camera, taken in the late evening sun. I've not spent much time editing photos lately. Gotta concentrate on school. So, someday I may choose to work on them a bit.

"The wise in heart will be called prudent, and sweetness of the lips increases learning." Proverbs 16:21

Jackson's Hand

2009-09-27T22:20:00.007-05:00

Several weeks ago Jackson hurt his hand during the Dike-New Hartford JV football game on a Tuesday night. He got stepped on during the first half, but went on to play the rest of the game. He made several catches during the second half, had some great tackles, and some big runs as well.

After the game he told us his hand hurt, and it had started to swell. We took him to the office and shot some x-rays, but couldn't conclusively find any fractures. We decided to ice it and take some more pictures the next day. Same story the next day. The navicular bone looked suspicious, so we decided to have him see an orthopaedic doctor to get a second opinion. We needed to see his primary doc to get the referral to the ortho, but couldn't get in until late Wednesday afternoon. He gave us the referral, but we couldn't get in to the ortho until Friday morning. He shot some more x-rays, but still couldn't see if there was a fracture, so ordered a cat scan. We were able to go straight to the hospital and have the scan. His hand continued to be quite swollen.

Shannon got the results from the scan late Friday afternoon, with the diagnosis of a fractured 2nd metacarpal, which was a blessing because it is much less serious than a navicular fracture. Monday morning we went back to the ortho doc, and he casted Jack's hand. We went back a week later for another x-ray, which the doctor said "looked good", but I'm doubtful he could even see the fracture, since it didn't show up originally on an x-ray, and this time they were shooting through his cast, too. He's said Jack needed to keep the cast on another three weeks.

Jackson played his first game with the cast last week. He was wrapped up like a mummy, but it was better than standing on the sidelines passing out water bottles.

He only played defense, and did an okay job. He had one pass come directly at him, got both hands up to catch it, and --THUNK-- it bounced right off. At least he was able to break up the play, but it was frustrating to watch.

He's been begging us all week to take the cast off. It stinks like sweaty socks. It's itchy. The list of complaints goes on and on. We're still holding off on removing it.

I think there are still three weeks of JV football left. He's anxious to get back into the game.

"The light of the eyes rejoices the heart, and a good report makes the bones healthy." Proverbs 15:30

Thankful Thursday

2009-09-24T22:35:00.004-05:00

I really can't believe another week has flown by. I say this all the time, but time is just flying away from us. Will I remember all of the sweet things my kids say, or will I focus on the stressfulness of our busy life? I'm striving to focus on the positives, and BE more positive.

~ I'm thankful for my bible. I've been making a concerted effort lately to read it EVERY DAY. I KNOW it is important to do so to continue to grow spiritually, but unfortunately, when things get hectic, bible time seems to be one of the first things to go. Shameful. So. I'm continuing on. I've been reading mostly in the New Testament the past week or so. Lots of good stuff there. Very convicting. Isn't it funny how one is led right to the passage of scripture that one most needs to hear (read-or get smacked over the head with???)?

~ I'm thankful that Jackson's hand is healing well. We were back to the orthopaedic doctor this week. He says three more weeks with the cast. We'll see.

~ I'm thankful that Alex has remained injury free throughout the football season, except for the expected bumps and bruises.

~ I'm thankful for Chase's football team. They're always fun to watch play, and more times than not, they win. Tonight Chase scored 4 touchdowns and had 14 tackles. But who's counting?

~ I'm thankful for boxed cake mixes. Tomorrow is my week to make cake for the Varsity football team, and I just don't feel like baking from scratch.

~ I'm thankful for the progress we have made in school this week. We got off to a good start in early August, then hit several bumps in the road. We're back on track, and everyone knows what is expected of himself/herself until January 10, 2010.

~ I'm thankful for Shannon. He bears the weight of our world on his shoulders, but rarely complains, and gives all of himself for our family. He's my hero.

~ I'm thankful for the rain we've been getting this week. There's much less dust from our gravel road. And I'll be very thankful if it stops raining during the football game tomorrow night, and during soccer games on Saturday.

~ I'm thankful we're having guests for dinner on Saturday. It motivates me to clean things I might not normally clean on a weekly basis.

~ I'm thankful for the new DVR. It's awesome being able to watch a show and fast forward through commercials.

~ I'm thankful for Target's Strawberry, Orange, and Banana juice mix. It's yummy.

~ I'm thankful it's bedtime. I'm tired.

"So that your trust may be in the LORD, I have instructed you today, even you." Proverbs 22:19

Hardwood Floors

2009-09-24T13:47:00.005-05:00

Back in August I posted about tearing out our living and dining room carpet here. We finished the project over Labor Day weekend.

Saturday morning we finished making the repairs to the floor by replacing the damaged planks. I regret now that I didn't take any pictures of the process, as demo is always fun. It involved a series of plunge cuts with the circular saw into the damaged plank, removing a center section of the board, then prying out the outside tongue and groove sections. Shannon bought me a dremmel to help with the cutting. We also used a rip saw, and anything else to get those old 99 year old boards out of there! It was a tedious process, but turned out well in the long run.

After the repairs were done, we headed into town to buy our supplies. We rented an orbital sander to smooth out the imperfections. Shannon manned the big sander as Jackson and I used hand sanders around the hard-to-reach edges.

A little ways into the project we learned that the sander was more effective if we added some weight onto it. Needless to say, we had a lot of volunteers for this assignment.

This is the point where I stopped taking pictures. It got pretty dusty and messy, so I packed up the camera and put it away.

After sanding with three different grits of sandpaper, we cleaned and prepped the floor for staining. We got the first coat on Saturday night, and after all of the clean-up, finally got to bed about 2 A.M.

Sunday morning Shannon loaded up all of the kids and took them to church while I stayed home and put a second coat of stain on the floors. We took the family out for lunch, visited Papa Joe in his skilled nursing home, returned the sander to the rental store, and anything else we could think of the keep the kids out of the house!

Bryce, Colton, and Chase had gone to my sister's house with my parents for the weekend, so we only had the bigs and the littles at home. Alex, Jackson and Abbie spent a lot of time entertaining the littles so we could continue to work without adding footprints to the floor.

By late Sunday night we had two coats of stain and the stain sealer applied to the floor. Monday morning we got up and began applying the polyurethane. After seven coats, we called it quits.

We're very pleased with the results. The floors are by no means perfect, and we ended up with some weird stain phenomenon when we applied the sealer, but it is SO MUCH better than carpet.

We're thinking that they would look inconsistent with the rest of the house if they WERE perfect, so to us, imperfect is just perfect.

This is my favorite part of the whole project. We realize that it was optimistic to think that we could keep all of the children out of the hallway, living room, and dining room for three whole days. Sunday evening while the stain was still a little sticky, Hudson attempted to make the jump from the kitchen to the stairs leading up to his room.

He didn't quite make it, and left a sweet little footprint on the floor. I just couldn't bring myself to stain over it, so it will stay with our house until someone more ambitious than I, decides to do away with it.

We still need to stain and install the quarter-round trim in both rooms. It's been too humid to stain this week, so the trim is still waiting in the garage. It's not going anywhere.

This is one more project we can cross off the "to-do" list.

"Then you will walk safely in your way, and your foot will not stumble." Proverbs 3:23

Thankful Thursday

2009-09-17T22:23:00.005-05:00

It's been a couple weeks again since I've blogged. There just seem to be so many things to do, and computer time got bumped to the bottom of the list.

I have lots of things to be thankful for today.

* Jackson's hand is healing nicely.

* Chase is feeling better after getting banged up in his football game Monday.

* There are lots of groceries in the house.

* The basement got cleaned last weekend.

* The hardwood floors have been refinished (more pictures to come soon).

* We've been to the fitness center every night this week (well, except tonight).

* Laundry is caught up.

* FOOTBALL tomorrow night.

We've got a really busy weekend on tap. I'll try to post more early next week. I've got football pictures, little kid pictures, broken hand pictures, and more.

"The LORD will not allow the righteous soul to famish, but He casts away the desire of the wicked." Proverbs 10:3