Mom, You're In Charge, Right?

OK...so it's been awhile...

2011-11-05T04:40:00.001+10:00

I realize that it has been almost six months since my last post...I have no excuses, except that I am a busy mom. But I have been reading some blogs lately and several friends are using this time (November) to remember the things that they are thankful for. I LOVE this idea. However, I know myself well enough to know that I will NEVER keep up with blogging everyday, even if it is just for a month. I do not want to overlook that I have much to be thankful for though. So, an update and some thankfulness is what this post is all about.
First of all, big events that happened this fall...Haley turned 12 and Tommy turned 6! I can't believe that time just continues to pass us by and my babies are growing so quickly. We went to a corn maze for their birthdays...they celebrated together, Haley has never minded sharing her birthday with her little brother...so we often combine their birthdays. Haley brought a couple of good friends with her (including my sister Grace). It is fun to watch her with her friends, just being silly and laughing. She has always had a more serious side, and I love to watch her really loosen up and have fun. Her smile is amazing. We hit "Flashlight Friday" at the corn maze. We started with a hayride, and then came back right around sunset to start the corn maze. The kids LOVED it...flashlights in hand we navigated the maze and just enjoyed hearing the kids compete and have fun. Their favorite phrase came from the "safety video" that they had to watch before going into the corn maze...so all the way through I heard "DO NOT smoke...in the maze." It made me laugh.
Our fall has been filled with soccer, school, and just enjoying being close to Poppi and Peeps (my folks). We know that our time here is limited and we are so thankful to be close to family, after being away for a few years. And so as we enter the season of thankfulness...I am reminded that I have much to be thankful for...

time with family (especially "aunt" Grace)

LOVE the smiles and laughter

so thankful for this little girl and her love for her daddy

this smile brings me so much joy

sweet face

beautiful days...

time to enjoy the simple things in life...

fun with friends...

(a few pictures courtesy of Grace - the three above )

and of course, alien cupcakes!

Syd had a little difficulty when she realized that it wasn't her birthday and she wasn't getting anything, so her big brother (Jake) wrapped up a little gift for her to help her get through it all. I love that my kids care so much for each other. I am truly blessed.

13 years later...

2011-06-21T03:16:00.000+10:00

Today is our 13th wedding anniversary...WOW...13 years. I love my hubby now more than I ever thought possible. He is kind, generous, loving, a great dad, and so many other things. I know that I have been blessed...and when I say that here is what I mean. It is my belief that before the foundations of the world God designed and made him for me, it wasn't and accident that we ended up marrying one another. If you knew the story of the beginning of my husband's life, you would see God's great power in action. You see, in man's opinion, my husband shouldn't even be here. He was born early...not just a few weeks early...at 26.5 weeks, he came into the world. And that was over 30 year ago, when medicine is not what it is today. His loving parents were asked if they wanted to "save his name" meaning, save it for another baby, because he wasn't expected to make it. Little did they know or understand that their wisdom and knowledge was finite in comparison to the creator of that little baby boy, and that the plans the Creator had for that little one were not what man would expect. God preserved his life, and grew him, watched over him and then along the way we met. I was in second grade and he was in fourth. His sister and I were friends, and he was the "pesky big brother." Over the years, our families stayed in touch, his sister and I were "pen pals"...she being the better half of that arrangement. Then by God's design my family returned to the Annapolis area. My hubby was attending the Naval Academy and became involved with my family (again) in a very close friendship. After broken relationships (in both our lives), God brought the two of us together...and 13 years later we are blessed with each other and our four wonderful children. God's plan...amazing, incredible and unexpected. I am so blessed and thankful. Happy Anniversary, Babe, it has been an incredible 13 years. I love you.

She's TWO!!!

2011-06-18T13:10:00.001+10:00

Our Guam baby is two! I can hardly believe that it has been two years since I told the doctor, "Look, my husband is deployed and I have some very good friends who are willing to watch all THREE of my kids...so I am done waiting." Fortunately, I think he could see that I was on the edge of my sanity and that really it was in everyone's best interest if he just "helped me out." And so June 9th, our baby girl was born. I was so fortunate to be surrounded by folks who cared for me (and the kids) in so many ways. God was so good. And so now we begin her second year...what a gift. She is spunky and delightful, sweet and adorable, a little bit spoiled, and a little bit of a diva, and we LOVE her. Happy Birthday my little two foot sparkplug...WE LOVE YOU!

Yes, these two are up to something...

This girl LOVES her Poppi.

Yum, strawberry cupcakes.

LOVE that she just dove right in.

Your Age is Showing...

2011-04-29T03:23:00.000+10:00

I had a birthday last week...and while I do not feel that I have changed that much over the years...I realized I really have changed more than I may have ever anticipated. Change isn't bad. In this case, I think many of the changes are good. I am the mother of four wonderful children, who challenge me everyday to look beyond myself and my own selfish desires and give of myself. I am the wife of the most wonderful husband out there (I know that you may beg to differ...and so you should). My husband is patient, understanding, supportive (even when he thinks I am a little kooky) and loves me, even when I am not what he expects me to be. We will celebrate 13 years married this summer...and what a fantastic 13 years it has been. So my age may show on my face (with wrinkles), or in my hair (especially when it has been a while between coloring), or even in the way that my body creaks and rebels against me sometimes...but the treasures that I have gained in those years are well worth the gray hairs, wrinkles, and more.

Nicknames...

2011-04-07T10:54:00.000+10:00

We all have them...well, a lot of us do. I am Katie, or KT...or Kate. We get them from our loved ones...mom and dad, sisters and brothers, and sometimes even our husbands. But for today I just want to record a few of the ones that my kiddos have, and maybe even a couple of stories of how they got them. Well, to start with they have been known to our squadron buddies as "the cornpups" and also "the glowlights." The back story there, my hubby's call sign (he is a pilot) is "Corndog"...that is who he has always been. So naturally his kids are "the cornpups." It makes me giggle. "The glowlights" was given to them by a dear friend (before he was a dear friend)...while we lived in Guam, I would tie chemlights to the kids so that while we where hanging out with friends at night I would still be able to see the kids and identify them from a distance. So this friend called up and left a message one day "we are having a get together if you want to join us, and bring the glowlights" and the name stuck. Haley was affectionately called Halbop for a while by her aunt (after Halley's comet). Lately though, our favorite subject for nicknames has been Syd. "Baby Reba" because of her bright red hair..."little two foot spark plug"...also her fiery red hair and matching personality. She is full of spunk and sass...we think it is hilarious. So those are just a few of our nicknames...do you have any special to you?

So.Funny.

2011-03-24T12:18:00.000+10:00

Today, we went to the International Spy Museum for an early celebration of Jake's birthday. It was GREAT! We had a fantastic time...Jake and Haley really enjoyed seeing all the "spy craft" stuff...little tiny cameras, bugs you can hide anywhere, microdots, etc. They thought that the things that tested their personal "spy knowledge" were awesome too. Find the four "dead drops" in the picture...where are the four "surveillance risks"...and so on. Tommy, well, he liked the cool cars, and wanted to climb in and under anything that wasn't bolted to the floor...we were in a "Spy" museum after all...and in the mind of a five year old, what else does a spy do besides sneak around and hide in things? Jake is into all things "spy" right now...he loves mysteries, sneaking around, secret codes, etc. So it was a fun day for him to celebrate his upcoming birthday. But the best parts of the day for me were things that the kids said...just being themselves. Jake: "Look kids, Big Ben!" as we pass a restaurant near D.C. called Big Ben...seriously. Now, Jake has never seen any of the National Lampoon's movies (they aren't the most appropriate)...but Brent and I often say this phrase when we are driving around somewhere and we are either going in circles, are lost, or not getting where we need to go. Jake just cracked up after he said that, and it brought a smile to my face because that phrase for him has become something that is unique to our family. My sweet and precious Haley said upon arriving home..."Going to the Spy Museum with the boys is kind of like going with monkeys." I must admit, as soon as this came out of her mouth, I burst out laughing. She wasn't saying it in a mean spirited way...she was being honest...sometimes going with the boys places is a little bit like taking the circus somewhere...it is fun, but borderline crazy. And I loved the honesty and frankness with which she expressed that thought. And then there is my precocious little Tommy. We were sitting around the dinner table tonite eating take out and he, mimicking Peanuts, says something with the phrase "blasted beagle" (Snoopy) in it. I looked at him and said, "Son, please don't say 'blasted beagle' it isn't OK." He smiled at me and two seconds later he says "blasted bagel"...then looks at me with a huge smile on his face and says, "I said blasted bagel...not beagle." None of us could help it...we all started laughing. Everyone. Even Brent. It was so funny. We discussed the word "blasted" later...and I explained to him that I wasn't OK with him using this word, and that he wasn't a pirate. But all in all today, my day was filled with fun, laughter and memories...of a life with great blessings.

Toilet Troubles...

2011-03-18T05:09:00.000+10:00

I love my boys, A LOT...they are so fun, they make me laugh everyday, and they bring an incomparable joy to my life. However, I wish that there was a magic pill to give them that would make them hit the inside of the toilet bowl every time. Jake has gotten much better...and for the most part doesn't make too much of a mess...Tommy is a WHOLE DIFFERENT matter. I walked into the bathroom about a week ago lifted the lid to the toilet only to find a HUGE mess. It looked like whoever had peed in there actually wanted to decorate the seat of the potty. And to be totally honest...I am pretty sure this isn't too far from the truth. I could just see the little grin on his face, as I imagined him standing at the potty trying to pee all the way around the seat perimeter. I love that kid...but REALLY?!?! Anyway, I have decided to resort to something to "assist" him in his goal to pee on something and buy a couple of these to help him aim where I want everything to go. I am pretty sure that he will think they are AWESOME...and hopefully that result in more "on target" peeing. I will let you know how it works out.

The little green man...

2011-03-09T12:00:00.000+10:00

I just have to record this for posterity's sake. I started this blog to write down some of the funny things that the kids say because I know that in time, I won't remember them...and I want to remember them. All the kids say funny things sometimes, but Tommy is probably the one that really comes up with some crazy stuff. So in keeping with that theme...this evening we were out in the car, and the way that the light was reflecting off the windshield was causing Tommy's skin to look green. He was examining his green hands...and then looked at me with all seriousness and said, "Mom...I think I am turning into Yoda." He cracks me up.

A beautiful thing...

2011-02-28T09:31:00.000+10:00

I had the priveledge of reading a post from my friend who recently traveled home on a military "space A" flight. What was different about this flight? She was put on a medivac flight back to the states. Apparently this is a rare experience...but this post is touching, amazing, and a reminder of what is important in this life. Please take a moment to read it...I promise it is worth your time.

Life a blur...

2011-02-23T23:16:00.000+10:00

Since we have moved I am having those moments of "where did the time go" and "Wow, I was hoping to get more done today." Not that I don't have these on a regular basis, but they seem to be more frequent right after we have moved to a new place. I think that is mostly because on top of all the "regular" things that I do (you know mommy stuff) there is unpacking and organizing of a household to be done. And then there is the unpredictable "kid factor." My hubby is always saying that the boys can destroy the house is seconds flat...which is pretty close to the truth...sometimes it looks like a hurricane has blown through my house. :) And while that can be frustrating sometimes because it creates extra work, I try and remind myself that these days are limited, short and will be gone before I know it. Some day I will look around, my house will be pristine, quiet, and BORING! So while I struggle sometimes being patient with the mess, I try to remember that I will not have these precious and fun little kiddos here forever, so if my house is a little messy...I'll live.

My little Tommy...

2011-02-19T03:35:00.000+10:00

Tommy...I love that kid. He is the mischievous one, the one that is always testing, he looks for the line of "no you can't do that" just so that he can put his toe across it and see what happens. He is so much fun. We have had some scary moments with him, but God has been so good to protect him...and I am so thankful. This morning while watching a show, he saw some kids build a hang glider out of kites (it was an animated show, hence the impossible being possible)...he looked at me with a sparkle in his eye and said "I want to do that mom. I want to ride kites like that." I love him...he is all daredevil and no caution. I pray that God will protect him as he grows...I look forward to the ride.

Boxes, boxes, and MORE boxes...

2011-01-18T04:04:00.000+10:00

And so the saga continues...the unpacking that is. We are trying to dig ourselves out from under all the boxes etc here...but there have been a few complications. First, when you move overseas to a place like Guam, the Navy generously stores some of your stuff for you...usually in a location close to where you moved from. So the shipment that we have received is our stuff from Guam...which we packed out about 3 weeks before we actually left Guam. The rest of our stuff is STILL in storage, because even though we have filed the paperwork etc...it just takes a while for them to get your stuff out. I don't know...I just work here. So...since I am still waiting on half of my household goods to arrive...there is only a certain amount of actual unpacking that I can "complete." Did I mention that Sydney's crib is in our storage shipment. She has been sleeping in a pack and play for the past 18 months of her life. Ah, the Navy life. Hopefully we will be getting our storage shipment this week sometime...and then the REAL FUN...will begin. Oh, then there is the sorting and the trashing. So this is what military families do just about every time they move...at least most of the ones that I know do. We sort and trash...that means that either on the prior to moving end, or the receiving end...you sort through your stuff and trash that which you have no use for anymore...or you have realized that you can live without. Usually, I do this stuff on the prior to moving end...HOWEVER, since my husband was in the desert the two months prior to our moving...I decided to just wait. So now I am trying to accomplish that as well. The frustrating thing...my progress is VERY slow. I don't know if it has to do with the four children that I have, the homeschooling I do, or the other "motherly" things I have going on here...but I am just not getting things done as quickly as I would like. Oh, well. So there you have it...my life in a nutshell right now...I am surrounded by boxes...in a transitional status...trying to sort it all out. :)

My new picture...

2011-01-13T08:07:00.000+10:00

So recently I changed the picture at the top of the blog to one that was taken right after my husband got home from the desert for the second time. But I wanted to give props to the person who took this photo...and post a couple more that she took. If you live on Guam then in my humble opinion...Molly Jayne Photography (link here) is the BEST photographer on island. OK, OK...yes, I confess she and I are very good friends...but that does not change the fact that she is a very talented photographer. So THANKS Molly for the great photographs...and for putting up with our crazy family while taking them. :)

Life a Whirlwind...

2011-01-06T07:11:00.001+10:00

...at least that is how I feel life has been lately. We had a wonderful Christmas holiday with ALL the family in town. Not only were we all in town...but almost all of us stayed in the same house together (at least about 16 of us did). But on Christmas day, our families congregated together for gift opening and Christmas dinner. It was really wonderful and chaotic all at the same time. We did miss our family members who weren't able to make it, but we hope to catch up with them soon. It was a great way to celebrate our return to the states and get to see all our loved ones that we have missed over the past couple of years. As is tradition when all the kids are home together (on my side of the family) we took a family picture, but this year instead of doing the one where everyone gets together in some scenic area and "looks" at the camera and says "cheese"...we did something a little different. Go to my sister's website here to check it out. Yep, all those people in that photo are members of my family. It is a pretty wonderful one. And now...our lives are filled with boxes, unpacking, remaking our home...in a new place for a couple of years. Can't wait to see what adventures await us this year!

Back Stateside...

2010-12-24T11:54:00.001+10:00

Well, you may have thought that the our clan had dropped off the face of the planet. But we didn't...we just moved halfway around it. Yep, that's right...we have returned to the states where we will spend the next two years living about 5 to 10 minutes from my parents house. We are SO excited. It has been a long trip and we still aren't completely adjusted...especially since we have traveled right into the Christmas season. My parents have been super gracious and allowed us to stay with them until we are able to move into our rental home after the new year. So we are spending Christmas with my entire family, and my in-laws are traveling up to join us too. It should be a busy, crazy and fun time. I am hoping to blog about our trip back this way sometime...but for now I just wanted to say...Merry Christmas to all, and may God bless you.

Code Name...

2010-11-17T18:18:00.000+10:00

So it has been my intention with this blog to record the funny or unique things that the kids say to me. Tommy is particularly full of funny sayings. He once told me that he was "allergic" to cracks...because something that he was eating had cracks in it...so he was allergic to the cracks. Jake promptly responded with "Tommy, cracks are hypoallergenic." Yep...that was one for the books. So this evening Tommy rattled off his "code" name. Brent said "What is your code name Tom?" "Tango, Oscar, Mike, Mike, Yankee." I looked at Brent and we both started laughing. Our son's code name is just his name spelled out with Phonetic letters...or in military speak. So for now...we are calling Tommy by his "code" name...and he is getting a kick out of it.

Transition...

2010-11-15T14:30:00.000+10:00

This word sums up our life right now. In your mind you are probably thinking, "You are in the Navy, aren't you used to transition by now." The answer is yes...and no. I know that we will have to go through it...I know that the kids will be all "out of whack" for a little while...and I know that it will come to an end...eventually. But all that said...it is a challenge when we are in the middle of it. And that is where we are right now. Transition. My household goods are packed an on their way back to the states (hopefully...I won't tell you the stories I have heard or know from friends first hand experience). We are "camping" in our home right now...it isn't so bad...it kinda brings back memories of when I was a kid. I have distinct memories of our family having dinner on a blanket in the middle of our living room floor while we were waiting to "move in"...really for our furniture to arrive. The kids all have air mattresses...and very few toys...which makes life more interesting in many respects. All of a sudden cardboard boxes, paper, scissors and tape have a whole new appeal. We have bought the boys a few Lego sets...just to keep them busy right now...and we are still trying to do school in the midst of all this. It is weird...and sometimes frustrating...but that's OK. Sydney is trying to figure out what is going on...as best as a one year old can...and in the midst of the rest of it...everyone here has come down with the crud...(this is what we call it on Guam when you come down with a nasty version of the snotties/cold). All the kids are sniffling and snotting and coughing too. They are all trying to keep a pretty good attitude about everything...and while I am trying to remember that this is just a temporary situation (one that I recommended we do...better to live without on this end, than when we arrive in Maryland)...sometimes I find myself ready to be done...and on with the next stage. And so I am remembering that for everything there is a season...and this is my season for transition.

A Little Giggle...

2010-10-26T15:40:00.000+10:00

I had a bad day today. We all have those...and we all wish that we didn't. But my sister-in-law sent me something via email that in the midst of my bad day, brought a smile to my face (she has a way of doing that). So I thought I would share. If you don't know of the books "If You Give a Mouse a Cookie" or "If You Take a Mouse to the Movies" then you might not get this. But for those of you who have read those books to your kids...this is pretty cute. I didn't write it...just got it in an email.

"If You Give a Mom a Muffin" (author unknown)...
If you give a mom a muffin,

She'll want a cup of coffee to go with it.

She'll pour herself some.

Her three-year-old will spill the coffee.

She'll wipe it up.

Wiping the floor, she'll find dirty socks.

She'll remember she has to do laundry.

When she puts the laundry in the washer,

She'll trip over boots and bump into the freezer.

Bumping into the freezer will remind her she has to plan for supper.

She will get out a pound of hamburger.

She'll look for her cookbook ("101 Things To Do With a Pound of Hamburger").

The cookbook is sitting under a pile of mail.

She will see the phone bill, which is due tomorrow.

She will look for her checkbook.

The check book is in her purse that is being dumped out by her two-year-old.

She'll smell something funny.

She'll change the two year old's diaper.

While she is changing the diaper, the phone will ring.

Her five-year-old will answer and hang up.

She'll remember she wants to phone a friend for coffee.

Thinking of coffee will remind her that she was going to have a cup.

And chances are...

If she has a cup of coffee,

Her kids will have eaten the muffin that went with it.

Another Birthday!

2010-10-16T21:09:00.000+10:00

Yesterday Haley turned 11. WOW! The time with her has just FLOWN by. And while we didn't really have a "huge" celebration...we did go to dinner with a couple of friends and have cupcakes afterward. It was very fun. The boys behaved themselves well enough for us to eat out...and Haley had a wonderful evening. How could I tell you ask? She grinned from ear to ear all night long. : ) She is such a precious girl. I am amazed and the young woman that she is becoming. She is very considerate, loving, encouraging, and often very selfless. She is a huge help to me with Sydney and the boys. I am so thankful for her. She brightens up my days with her beautiful smile. Her birthday request this year...she wants a girls day with her mom when we get back to the States...so we can go shopping etc. together. I am really looking forward to it. Happy Birthday my sweet Haley, you bring such joy to my life.

He's FIVE!!!

2010-10-08T15:13:00.000+10:00

Every time one of my children has a birthday I am reminded how quickly they grow, and how short my time with them is. I am amazed at how gracious God has been to us...and Tommy is NO exception to that. Tommy turned five yesterday...and honestly that in itself is a reminder of what a true blessing he is. I am reminded of what a blessing he is especially when I think about his hospital stay at 18 months. He was hospitalized in the PICU (Pediatric ICU) for a bleed at the top of his large intestine. God preserved his little life a couple of times during that stay...providing doctors who were able and skilled to care for him, and providing all the things that he needed at the time that he needed them. I can still remember that time like it was yesterday, and every time I think about it, it brings tears to my eyes. It reminds me how fragile life is, how strong my God is, how gracious God is, and how I do not deserve His love and care...although I am SO THANKFUL for it.
So my little Tommy turned five today, and he lights up this family. He is named is for his two grandfathers... Thomas (my dad) and Wayne (Brent's dad). He has a little bit of each of our families in his personality. He is funny, and adorable. He is mischievous, and stubborn. He is full of love and sweetness, with a little bit of naughty thrown in. I LOVE him! He brings so many smiles to my life, to all of us. What a gift he is. So to my little man, who still melts my heart...Happy Birthday Tommy!

I just LOVE this little dude!

Not always what I expect...

2010-09-29T23:59:00.000+10:00

It has been an extremely busy week here at our house...which really is not any different from any other week...but it just seems to be even more hectic than normal. First, Jake got stung by a boonie bee this Sunday. A boonie bee is not really a bee at all...it is a paper wasp, and they are ALL OVER Guam so we just call them boonie bees. They are the "bees" or stinging insects of the boonies. They are EXTREMELY aggressive...so watch out if you get in their space. Jake, unfortunately, did not know that he was invading one's space...and as a result got stung right above the eye. The first day it didn't look so bad. The second day it started to get worse...and worse. When he woke up Tuesday morning, he couldn't even open his eye. Fortunately, the swelling is mostly gone now...and he seems none the worse for wear. So between that and the constant "hum" of activity going on here between school, chores, soccer practice, and regular life...I could use a little break. But for now, that will have to wait. I was reminded tonight though, through another friend's blog, how short this time with the kids is, how quickly they grow, and how the things we do now are creating memories for them later. I love thinking about that. They are such a rich blessing to Brent and me...it always amazes me how good God has been to us. So during weeks like this when I am feeling a little "crazy"...it is good to remember the blessings of my life.

Life Every Changing...

2010-09-07T23:19:00.000+10:00

It has been a while since my last post...and much has happened here on our little island. We have started school and soccer. The kids are so excited to be back to playing soccer again. And this year Tommy can play! He is a riot to watch...half the time he is checking out the ground where there is some really cool bug, or just a good pile of red dirt to dig in. :) I love that I can hear his coach out on the field saying "Hey Tommy, Tommy...hey buddy, where's the ball?" In response, I typically see Tommy do a quick search of the field for the ball, and then he runs off at top speed to chase it down. It is SO FUNNY! I love that kid. But along with all our fun...we have had some "surprising" news. Brent is heading back out for a "short" deployment. He will be returning to where he was before...and we will be here waiting for him. We have had about a week to digest and get ready for this. It will be OK because we know that it is in God's plan for us...but we are sad to see daddy have to go again...even if it is "just a short time."

More pictures of our Guamazing Day...

2010-08-09T21:42:00.000+10:00

So I have a few minutes and thought I would post some more of the pictures from our Guamazing Day. I have to say that pictures really can't capture this place...it may give you an idea...but Guam is truly unique all to itself. And while I don't always love every aspect of it...I am reminded today that it has been a place where we have been blessed. Our biggest blessing...Sydney...she was born here...a true gift from God...we are so thankful for her. She adds her own unique dynamic to our little family and I wouldn't want life any other way. We have been blessed with dear friends, I have had the opportunity to develop some unique friendships here that I might nowt have had the opportunity to do anywhere else...simply because these are the people who surround me every day. We have been blessed with a wonderful babysitter...she is the ONLY babysitter we use here, and the kids LOVE her. In their minds, well, Aunt Beka is probably the only other babysitter as good as Jasmine. So while this tiny island has presented me with many challenges to my person and the way that I have viewed things...it has stretched me, taught me, and showed me that no matter where I live, God is at work...and that is all that matters.

Painted bus stop...they paint EVERYTHING here.

Our ride up to Talafofo falls...we are in a gondola.

Look at those blue eyes...don't ya love them?

Family photo op at Talafofo

Brent attempted the hold and shoot...not so successful. :)

This girl loves her daddy.

Cool bridge at Talafofo falls.

Who doesn't love a huge flower with a cute little face in the middle?

Just the three big kids.

This was at the beginning of our picture taking...you've already seen the end. :)

Boonie pig.

This is a replica of the cave that they found a Japanese soldier in over 30 years after WWII.

He lived in this cave all that time.

Kinda like McDonald's...only not.

Random bridge...pretty cool though.

Boonie Dogs...there are a LOT of these on island.

The cross marks where Magellan landed on Guam...I thought that was kinda neat.

Boonie car...there are a lot of these too.

Pit stop.

If you can't read this...it is the Kim Chee store...I don't know what else they sell there.

Asan Beach...this is where the Marines landed to liberate Guam from the Japanese

during WWII.

Sunset Grill...maybe my favorite restaurant on Guam. :)

Another picture of Sunset Grill...the restaurant is under the canopy...

It may not look like much but the food is AWESOME!!!!

The giant Latte Stone...Latte Stones are part of the Chamorran culture.

Random rainbow seen during our day.

Guam road construction...after it rained.

The sunsets here are phenomenal.

We really did have a TON of fun on our Guamazing day.

Part of our journey...

2010-08-03T15:35:00.000+10:00

Today I watched a video on my sister's blog(here) that she created for my nephew Noah's birthday...highlighting moments from his little life so far. It was beautiful and sweet...and I teared up through it because it had many people from my life who are so important to me. But in the midst of watching it, I was struck by the fact that we are now approaching two years here on Guam. There was a picture of my two oldest holding Noah...he was only a few days old...and it was the day before we left to start our journey here. He was so little...and they were young too. How each of them has grown in the past two years and what an adventure our lives here on Guam have been. When we arrived on Guam I had an eight year old, six year old and a two year old. And now...we have an almost 11 year old, 8 year old, almost 5 year old, and a one year old. So thanks sis...for the reminder of how quickly the time passes...of the beauty of the journey...and even more of the great blessings that God has given to me.

The kids and I last year at home three months after Sydney was born.

Just a few weeks ago on our Guamazing Day...can't believe how they have grown!

Pictures I promised...

2010-07-25T14:14:00.000+10:00

OK...to be honest...I just don't have time to edit these right now...so I am going to post a few of them because I promised them almost 3 weeks ago. I think that they will give you a "new appreciation" for Guam. I would call these OOG pictures - Only On Guam. :)

Local "tire shop" about 10 minutes from the base.

You could stop at the Dime Store for a drink...no, this doesn't indicate the price of things inside.

Or you can stop at Han's Market...

They paint a lot of the walls around here...but note the abandoned building in the background...it adds so much to the picture. :)

"Family is not Freight" people!

Our perhaps you would rather get your tires repaired at this shop.

Boonie Truck...one of MANY we saw that day.

Another Boonie Truck...complete with a large Chammoran dude.

Boonie train...complete with park benches bolted to the train cars...oh, and that classy canopy to keep you out of the hot Guam sun.

Brent and the kids at Talafofo falls...

One of the suspension bridges at the falls...this kids thought this was pretty cool.

My opinion...beats the train.

One of the falls at Talafofo...

Trying to get a great family shot...as you can see everyone was cooperating.

Haley was fed up at this point.

There was a ton more that we saw that day...but that will have to wait for another post...here is a picture of the end of our day...so as you can see this island has its moments...just pure beauty.

Reading a blog...

2010-07-21T07:47:00.000+10:00

I must confess...I read a few blogs. I actually love the way that I can keep up on friends lives through reading their blog. It works really well when you are in a different part of the world and are almost a day ahead of everyone else. :) But the other thing that I love about blogs is that you get a chance to see where people's passions lie. Not that blogs are "all encompassing" but for the most part you will find more entries in someones blog about things they are passionate about. I love that. Most of my friends are passionate about their kids...I love this aspect, because I too am passionate about my kids. I love the stories that are told and the things that kids say. It makes life fun and interesting. Some of my friends are passionate about photography, my sister does wonderful things with photography and often shares her secrets through her blog. (Still pretty sure that I could NEVER replicate what she does though...oh, well). I even read a few cooking blogs...I like to try a new recipe now and then...and there are a couple blogs that I have found I really like their "style". But I find it interesting, that while I enjoy reading these blogs and keeping up with friends through this avenue...NOTHING...absolutely, NOTHING...replaces a good ole sit down with a friend to enjoy a cup of coffee and conversation. It is just a joy that can't be replaced. So to all my friends whose blogs I read...I hope that we will have that opportunity again soon.

Our Guamazing Day...

2010-07-04T21:24:00.000+10:00

Today we decided to take the kids on a little "island adventure." This mostly consisted of driving ALL the way around the island, seeing Talafofo Falls, and all the other things that can be seen "Only on Guam." It was actually a very fun afternoon...we got lost, twice...asked a guy walking down the road playing a ukulele for directions (he was very helpful)...and saw the falls...which were not huge...but not a trickle (which was what we saw when we tried to see a "waterfall" in Hawaii...the kids kept asking "Where's the waterfall, Dad?" - another story, another day.) Anyway...a couple of quotes from the day...pictures and more of the story later...but I had to get these down before I forget them. First...Brent :"I KNEW the guy walking down the road playing a ukulele would be the guy we should ask for directions." Then...Haley: "Dad, just because I don't have PERFECT GRAMMER (exaggerated eye roll...insert here) doesn't mean that I am cute!" But the best of the day came, of course, from Tom, "Windshield wipers, Dad. Use them."

12 years ago...

2010-06-22T14:57:00.001+10:00

I married the love of my life. These twelve years have been filled with adventures, exotic locations (ie. Guam), lots of laughter, and four very wonderful children. Things have not always been "easy" but I would never want to do these things with anyone else. He is my best friend...and I love him with all my heart. Happy Anniversary Babe!

June 20, 1998

My anniversary flowers from my sweet husband.

Her first birthday...

2010-06-15T20:51:00.001+10:00

Sydney turned one last week...and it has taken me this long to get pictures up for everyone to see. She is a spunky little girl...can totally give her brothers a run for their money, but also loves to snuggle. She is a joy and so much fun. I am so thankful for this little blessing among our other blessings. Happy Birthday, my little Sydney.

A little peace and quiet...

2010-06-14T12:07:00.000+10:00

So about a week ago I was trying to get everyone "settled down" for an hour or so, thinking that I was going to accomplish "big things" in that hour and "get ahead" in the endless to do list that I have. Haley and Jake are relatively easy to "settle down" these days...give them a good book and they will go off and read for an hour or so (I love this!) Tommy and Sydney are a little more challenging...but if I time things right, Syd can go down for her afternoon nap...then that just leaves me with Tommy. So I had gotten Tommy "settled in" or so I thought and I began working on something in the kitchen, I can't really remember what it was, maybe bread or dinner or something like that. About 10 minutes into this process Tommy comes wandering out..."I am done with quiet time mommy." "Tommy, I really need you to have some quiet time right now." "I did, but I am done now." "OK, Tom, but if you are going to be out here you need to let mommy work and you need to sit quietly." "OK, mom." Needless to say, he didn't really let me work, and he was most definitely NOT quiet by any standards. I must have sighed or something to "vent" my frustration a little bit because he said..."What's wrong mommy?" "Tom, I was just hoping for a little peace and quiet this afternoon." "Oh...well, you can have some tomorrow." It just kinda made me smile. I have to remind myself that one day I will long for the "not so peaceful days" that I am living in right now...and while they may overwhelm me sometimes now...they are full of precious moments that I will miss so much when my kiddos are all grown. So maybe I'll get that moment of "peace and quiet" tomorrow...but then again...maybe not.

Random Pictures...

2010-06-01T21:15:00.000+10:00

OK, I have needed to post some pictures for awhile...these are just some random shots that I took in the past month or so.

reading with Haley...

AWANAS awards night with our friends the Smothermans...

Yogurt popsicles...YUM...

and a little bit of goofing.

Our little cowgirl...this is a little taste before her 1 year pictures...

C'mon...aren't those feet adorable?

Here comes the summer...

2010-05-20T07:54:00.002+10:00

Summer...it's coming and we are excited. I think mostly for the break from full on school...although because we will be moving this year the kids and I are going to work on some school during the summer. This is actually good for a few reasons, 1) it gets REALLY HOT here during the summer...so hot that the kids are begging me to go back inside within 10 minutes, so having some school will give us something to do during the day while we are stuck inside...then when it cools off in the afternoon we can go out and play. 2) We will start the school year ahead, so we will not have to push so hard when we do finally move and we won't have to worry about carrying all of our school stuff with us either. (We are hoping to stop for a short break in Hawaii on the way back...and I want to take full advantage of that). 3) Having some school will provide some structured activities around here...I think that might be good for this semi-chaotic house. I always feel like summer is just a fly by the seat of your pants event...which is good to a certain degree...but I have a couple of kids who enjoy having some structure in their lives...so this will be helpful for that. Anywhoo...to kick off some of our summer events I am posting some pictures I took a couple of weeks ago when Brent and the kids were in the pool. Hope you enjoy!

She's standing...

2010-05-11T14:01:00.002+10:00

So I am still trying to figure out my NEW CAMERA that was a gift from my husband, kiddos, parents, grandfather (and a lens from my sister and her hubby). However, I have taken some pictures with it...actually a lot of pictures with it. And since Syd is standing on her own I figured that I should post a few pictures of her standing. She also walks with support, but has not quite yet decided to attempt walking on her own. So here they are...

I apologize for the darkness of some of these...like I said I am still figuring out lighting etc. But here is our little girl growing up fast.

To Slide or NOT to Slide...

2010-05-06T08:41:00.000+10:00

Yesterday morning I heard some ruckus in the boys room. The door was closed (which always makes me a little nervous). So I cautiously opened the bedroom door and found...Tommy climbing up his bed railing. Now this might not sound like a big deal...but give me a moment to explain. Tommy's bed railing is the kind for a top bunk...it fits into two groves at each end of the bed frame. So it is as long as his bed. He doesn't sleep with it on his bed anymore since the beds aren't bunked and he doesn't roll out of bed, so we just store the railing underneath his bed. Here's the good part...he had taken the railing out from underneath his bed, cleared the top shelf of his bookcase, and had propped the railing up on that shelf. He then decided that this would be and AWESOME slide. So he was climbing up the railing and then sliding down it. To make matters WORSE...Jake was doing it too! He hadn't said..."Tommy, we shouldn't do this" or anything like that...NOPE he just joined right in. But he was super fast to dime out his brother when he realized that they were in trouble. "It was Tommy's idea." "I understand that, but since you are his big brother, did you think that MAYBE you should tell him that this was a bad idea?" "That didn't cross my mind." "Well, IT SHOULD." I am confused on how to teach Jake to be a leader...he is surrounded by leaders. Haley is DEFINITELY a leader, and very responsible...Tommy is a leader, and LOVES to test his boundaries...and Jake just seems to fall in with whomever has the latest "cool" idea. I need to figure out how to teach that boy to lead himself and make decisions based upon logic. So that was my morning yesterday morning...slide and all...then there was the time that the boys used the bed railing as a pirate plank...yep, I came in the bedroom and they had set up the railing up between the toy box and Jake's bed. There was a lot of "ARGH! Now yer goin' to walk the plank" going on...and on the inside I was laughing, but also imagining myself explaining all this in the emergency room. I must admit...there is never a dull moment in this house...I am constantly amazed and what the boys come up with.

It's all about perspective...

2010-05-04T16:47:00.001+10:00

at least that is what I keep telling myself. My husband jokes that he should nickname me "bootstraps" because I am always pulling myself up by them. Truth be told, I am not much of a sit around and feel sorry for myself kind of person. I don't know if I owe that to my parents for not allowing me to be that way as a kid...or if that is just part of the way that God created me. However, every once in a while (well, here on Guam anyway) I get Rock Fever. For those of you who have NO IDEA what I am talking about...well, clearly you have NEVER lived on a tiny island in the middle of the ocean with only hundreds of miles of water surrounding you. OK...maybe I am being a LITTLE dramatic...I mean it isn't like you can't fly somewhere from here...but I say again...you have to fly to go somewhere from here. And honestly once you have passed the point of having a family of two (you and your hubby) well, flying becomes a little bit of a money drain (especially when you have 4 more tickets to purchase besides the two for hubby and you). Plus there is the GREAT FUN of flying for 8 hours at a time with little people (I do not recommend this too frequently unless your sanity is something that you really don't anticipate needing for awhile). So all of that to say...flying off this island NOT FUN nor a very realistic option for us right now. So back to Rock fever...lately I have had a small case of it. The kind where I remember how much I loved being in the states, close to family, able to road trip or even just drive to a Starbucks. But then I get little reminders of the good things that I have in my life right now. Brent is HOME. That is HUGE. This time last year, I was eight months pregnant and my husband was deployed. (yeah, so much fun.) Our family is together and it is wonderful! So when I have those days where I just want to feel sulky and frustrated because the kids are not cooperating, or I am tired of living so far from family, or the boys have tested my patience just one more time...I just need to remember...it's all about perspective. Time to give those bootstraps a little yank. :)

Tommyisms...

2010-04-27T13:35:00.000+10:00

A new Tommyism for you to contemplate... Tommy decided that he didn't want to eat the calzones I made for dinner. He is looking at it and notices the steam slits that I have cut in the dough to let the steam out of the pocket. "Mom." "Yes, Tom." "I am allergic to cracks." "What?" "I am allergic to cracks, so I can't eat this." Jake replies to that, "Tommy, cracks are hypoallergenic." (Not making this up.)

He's Eight!

2010-04-21T16:32:00.001+10:00

I should have posted this sooner...but well, let's be real...sometimes life gets a little crazy/busy around here. Jake turned 8 on March 29th. He was SOOOOO excited about his birthday. We actually celebrated with a little "party" the Saturday after his birthday...so for his actual birthday, he got to open his gifts from Poppi and Peeps, as well as Gracie...but waited for Saturday for the rest of his gifts. He LOVED his Navy gear from Poppi and Peeps...and his Navy water bottle from his Aunt Grace. He carries that with him whenever we go to the beach, on a walk...wherever. Saturday he talked ALL DAY about his party. We had our friends the Smotherman's over...they have 3 boys...Grant (7 turning 8 this year), Joe (5) and Chris (3). They could be our boys favorite people to play with. All the boys play REALLY well together. So, the Smotherman's came over on Saturday to play in the pool, eat hot dogs, and open birthday gifts. Jake LOVED his gifts (most of which were Legos), and really loved the cupcakes that we had for his birthday "cake". I think his favorite part of the cupcakes (besides the fact that they were PURE SUGAR)...was the decorations. We put little mini lego men in each cupcake...that way each boy could take his home. Jake and I were able to get these little guys from lego.com's pick-a-brick section. Jake decided what legs, body, head, and accessories he wanted for these guys. When they came in the mail he assembled them all for me so they would be ready for the cupcakes. He was so funny. But he really enjoyed his birthday and having his great friends here for it. I can't believe that it has been 8 years already...he is such a funny guy. He loves jokes...any kind. He has a very creative mind...I think he could probably build anything out of Legos. He constantly surprises me with the details that he picks up on...mostly because half of the time he doesn't even look like he is listening to me. I love this little dude...and he isn't so little anymore. I thank the Lord for him...he is a true blessing to our family.

Yum...HOT DOGS!

Jake's buddy Grant.

Jake and Joe

Pin the head on the Legoman. (Haley's Contribution)

Vanilla Cupcakes with Strawberry Icing

The cupcakes and Jake's gifts (the small creator Legos were his party "favors")

the big box is Creationary...a new Lego creating game.

My little guy...who isn't so little anymore.

The story of two sisters...

2010-04-06T21:41:00.000+10:00

So awhile ago I asked my sister, Erin, to design someting that I could put on t-shirts for the girls. The general story behind this is that Haley (who is 10) is thrilled to finally have a little sister. She loves her brothers...but she REALLY wanted a sister. Now she has one...and she LOVES her! She thought it would be fun to have something that they could wear together that was matching...BUT...they don't really make clothes for 10 year olds and 9 month olds that match. SO...I asked my sister if she would design something...maybe something with monkeys (Haley likes monkeys). AND SHE DID...AND IT IS AWESOME...http://tinytwistcreative.com/2010/04/designs-from-life-sisters/ go here to see it. I can't wait to order them for the girls....and I will definately take a picture of them together and post it. But for now...here is a picture of my two girls.

Another day at the beach...

2010-03-29T21:35:00.001+10:00

We had a wonderful Sunday afternoon this weekend courtesy of some of the folks in our squadron. Three of them have rented a house together (they are all dog owners) that is right on the beach...I mean walk out the back and there is the beach. They were so great to the kids...getting out all sorts of "toys" for them to play with. The favorites were the paddleboard, the kayak, and the "floating island"...they even had the island "anchored" with a cinderblock. It didn't take the boys very long to figure out how to "weigh anchor" and soon they were hauling the cinderblock in their island and floating around the bay. It was pretty funny to watch. The kids spend the ENTIRE time that we were there in the water (with a short break to eat hot dogs and grilled pineapple YUM). We stayed to watch a beautiful sunset...and I was reminded once again...this Guam life, it is a unique experience...maybe one I didn't ask for - but one I have still been blessed by.

Our friend Jeff with the boys on the paddleboard.

"Anchors Aweigh"

Haley and "Aunt" Tessa...paddleboarding.

She LOVED the kayak!

They did too!

My little island boy

and my island girl.

postcard perfect

yep, I live here...

My Wish List...

2010-03-25T07:51:00.001+10:00

Really this only has one thing on it right now...a Nikon D40. This is one of Nikon's Digital SLR cameras. I am hoping to get one for my birthday this year...so for all my family reading this...don't send me anything, just send money - and I will use it to buy this camera. Why do I want this camera? Well, for those of you who don't know...my sister is an AMAZING artist/photographer/graphic designer/so many other things it would take to long to list. Anyway, she has taken pictures of my kiddos for years...they are beautiful and hang on my dining room wall. They ALWAYS receive compliments and "who took these for you?" But alas...my sister does not live here in Guam (wish she did...oh, the fun we could have)...and she has moved from the east coast as well. So when we do return to the states, she will not be there to take all the beautiful pics of my kids that I treasure so much. This led to a discussion on a camera that would help me take better pictures...and she encouraged me to get a good camera and take some online tutorials and take my own pictures of my kiddos. She assures me that I can take pictures like hers (which I doubt) but I am willing to give it a shot. So for my wish list this year I hope to get a new camera...and begin new adventures in learning to take those priceless shots that will bring to mind the memories of a lifetime.

Captured Memories...

This is my whole family...well, minus my brother-in-law Joel...he wasn't around yet.

These are just a few memories captured by my sister.

Lost in a sea of busyness...

2010-03-23T09:57:00.000+10:00

AAAAHHHH!!!! Sometimes life seems to be flying at me like a locomotive and I am that cartoon character on the train tracks that is paralized with fear and surprise...just.can't.move. Anywhoo...that is a little bit what I feel like lately. The school year is blazing by us, and to be totally honest...I am already ready for summer. However, this summer is going to be a little different for us than our previous summers because we are not taking the entire summer off...that is right people...we are NOT having a full vacation. There are a few reasons for this. 1. We are on Guam and have NO place to travel to this summer...no road trips, no plane rides, NADA. 2. It gets SUPER HOT here during the summer...which means that my children (all 4 of them) will have to spend a significant amount of time indoors during the day because it is too hot to go outside. This will lead to, "Mom, what can we do now?" (imagine a little bit of a whiny voice when you say that), and "I'm bored" (also, whiny voice). 3. At some point in the next school year we will be MOVING...yep, that's right folks...we will finally get to leave Guam. I don't know when this will happen...probably wintertime, but regardless we will have to move and that complicates the whole schooling thing. So all of these things have led me to the decision not to take the entire summer off. We will definately have days where we enjoy the summer and do nothing but fun stuff...but we are also going to have a reduced workload for school this summer. I am also going to try something new with the kiddos in school. My friend Audria (who actually came to me for help with homeschooling before she left Guam) told me about a program that she is using with one of her kiddos called Switched on Schoolhouse. It is a computer based program, you can customize it...it has built in questions, quizzes and tests and automatic grading. How COOL is that!?! Anywho...I can still go in an edit grades etc. if the kids get the question right but the computer doesn't recognize their answer. So all in all it looks like a good option for us. The best part is that it is auditory and visual...so while the kids read the work, the computer will also read it to them if they want. Great for different kinds of learners. Anyway, enough about my school plans...but I thought this was pretty cool. I am only doing a couple subjects each for the kids...and the rest we will continue as we have done before. We will see how it works.
   In other news...it appears that Haley has an allergy to cheap earrings...(smart girl...way to get the good stuff).   Her little ear lobes have started swelling, with redness and even bleeding a little lately. My mother-in-law is also allergic to certain types of jewelry...so it appears that "her sweet Haley" has inherited this trait from her Grammy. So I am working on a solution for that as well. I currently have my sister Beka on the hunt for "pierced ear protectors" which are little plastic sleeves that slide onto the post of your favorite earrings making them safe for you to wear. Cool huh?
   Sydney is all over the place. She is a climber...with NO FEAR...I know bad combination. Brent and I joke that she might just be the girl version of Tommy...(read my earlier Mr. Mischeivious post). She is everywhere...and will NOT be contained. She climbs over furniture, bean bags, laundry baskets, etc. If it is in her way...she will find a way around it. She also LOVES the bookcase...unloading the books (or pulling them down on herself...then crying when they bonk her). She has earned the same title as her big brother...we call her our little redheaded wonder. She is SO CUTE when she is doing these things...we are in SO.MUCH.TROUBLE.
   And so that is only the beginning of what is happening in our household as of late...and if you feel a little like I opened up a firehose and aimed directly at you...then you have gotten the picture of how I feel around here lately. :) I love this job of motherhood, but boy...I never, EVER, EVER gave my mom enough credit! So to my mom and my mother-in-law...I love you...thank you for raising me/Brent...we didn't know it at the time, but you both did an incredible job!

St. Patty's Day...

2010-03-18T22:41:00.000+10:00

OK...so St. Patty's Day isn't really a HUGE holiday...well, I guess that depends on who you are. But this year our squadron had a "little" party, and I made a couple things for the party. While I was attempting to cook...Tommy was giving Haley a run for her money...doing normal Tommy things. Haley finally came to me and said that she didn't know what to do with him. So I decided to bring him into the kitchen to "help" me out with the cooking that I was doing. We made reuben roll ups together. Basically a reuben in a roll. Tommy LOVED rolling out the dough with his rolling pin, then he and Haley helped me by putting on the corned beef and swiss cheese...but let me tell you, the kids wanted NOTHING to do with the saurkraut. "What is that smell...it smells bad in here." "YUCK." These were just a couple of the comments about the stinky cabbage. All in all, we had a ton of fun making the stuff together...we did reubens, mini shepherd's pies, and some bread. We were going to do a cheese fondue too...but apparently the cheese went bad, even though the date on the package said it was OK. Oh, well. So here are some pictures from our baking fun together.

Tommy rolling dough with his little rolling pin.

Corned beef...

Swiss Cheese...

the end result...yum?

This is what Syd did while we baked together...

Travel Bug...

2010-03-10T13:47:00.000+10:00

I happen to live in a place where people easily get the travel bug. Maybe it is because we are a short trip away from some pretty awesome places...maybe it is because we are stuck on this tiny island with no place to go. Whatever the case, I have friends here that have been to some really neat places, Thailand, Okinawa, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand...I could go on...but I won't. All of that has come up in conversation between Brent and I a few times. The reality of the situation is...we currently feel that traveling to these places with our kiddos is a little bit silly for us. Why, you ask? Well...here is our reasoning...the boys are really not at the age yet where they appreciate the fun places, or neat opportunities that travel provides right now. As Brent has put it in the past..."We might as well be camping out at Mt. Trashmore" (a pretty cool park in Virginia Beach...but definately not Hawaii, New Zealand, or Australia.) Really, for the kids...Disneyland might evoke the reaction we are going for. So...where does that leave us...well, here is our compromise. We are going to enjoy Guam, for what it is...while this place is a little "offbeat" in many ways...there are some really neat and beautiful places to be seen here. And for our travel...well, in 2012 Navy is going to play Notre Dame in Dublin, Ireland! I have ALWAYS wanted to go to Ireland! This is a dream in the works...but who knows!

Mr. Mischievous...

2010-03-02T13:28:00.000+10:00

mischievous: 1. causing mischief or naughty; 2. showing a tendency to play pranks or tease. This describes my #3 to a T. Tommy is almost always looking for someway to stir the pot...whether it be taking something his big brother was playing with, getting into his big sister's crafts or getting right up into his little sister's face. There is always some way to make life a little more interesting around here, and Tommy is always looking for ways to create just a little more chaos. He is always full aware of all the things going on...and always trying to see just how far he can go before getting into real trouble. But then he has his shining moments...a kiss for his mommy, a hug for his sister...a helpful attitude, or "Mommy, you look beautiful" and all of the mischief is gone and for a moment there isn't a sweeter boy on the planet. I love him...mischief and all.

He's just so cute!

Jake's Hair...

2010-03-01T22:38:00.000+10:00

OK...first thing you need to know, Jake (our #2) has a TON of hair. I mean a TON. Then there is the fact that he HATES to have it cut. Brent usually cuts the boys' hair...both Tommy and Jake get haircuts from dad. With all the fussing etc. that has accompanied the latest haircuts, a decision has been reached...Jake is growing his hair out. So because he is growing his hair out, this is the general look that he sports everyday...

Just so you know...

2010-02-26T11:12:00.000+10:00

I posted about my sister's new project Tiny Twist Creative about a week ago. She has been changing everything over to her http://www.tinytwistcreative.com/ website. This is a blog about some of her current projects and things that inspire her. I love to look at is because it often has little projects and ideas that she has done with my niece and nephew. The pictures of the kids are absolutely precious, and she has a TON of good ideas of fun things to do with your little ones. Anywho...I changed her blog address to the correct one on my sidebar as well...so if you ever forget where to find her...you can always come to my blog and click on her Tiny Twist Creative link on my sidebar. She is going to be doing some neat things once she gets settled in after her move. She says that she will be having a giveaway in the coming months...so watch for that. I will be sure to mention the things that she is doing here on my blog as well. Just so you know.

Life Story Designs...

2010-02-22T13:15:00.001+10:00

For those of you who DON'T know yet...my family is all kinds of talented. I have a sister who is a graphic designer/photographer, a sister who is a jewelry designer/maker, a brother who is phenominal on the guitar and his singing is pretty rockin too, a little sister who appears to be a budding artist, and a sister in law who is a cake designer. And those are just my siblings. Where do I fall into all that? Not sure...humor may be my talent...but today's blog isn't about where I fall into it...it is about my sister Erin's (the graphic designer/photographer/oh, so much more) project. She has just recently expanded her business (yes, in her spare time from being a mommy she also is a free lance graphic designer...etc.) to include a division that is inspired by her children and her experiences as a mom. What I love about this site (http://www.tinytwistcreative.com/) is her overwhelming ability to create beauty and sweetness out of things like stepping on a mouse and having its guts squish out on your leg. She has recently started creating designs specifically inspired by these things (check out her mousey design...it is super cute). So I being the person that I am posted on her blog asking her to make a design for my two girls...something that they could each wear (she is going to be working with someone from Etsy to put her designs on children's clothing...watch for more on that) that would be "matching". Haley is in a "monkey phase" right now...and so I asked Erin if maybe something with a monkey for the girls. (I know - not like she doesn't have a jillion other things going on right now...did I mention that her husband is in the Navy and she is in the middle of a cross-country move?) So then I got to thinking...what would my life story designs look like. You know, the ones inspired by my kids and our "adventures" together. Here are a few that I came up with...you will have to use your imagination because I AM NOT a graphic designer...so there will be no pictures except the ones that you make in your heads. My first thought was to one created from the time that I walked by the bathroom and found Tommy with his head inside the toilet...he was holding onto the sides and looking around inside the toilet. His head wasn't touching the water...but still...GROSS! Anyhow...I thought maybe a little potty with a cute little kids head sticking out of it would be appropriate to this situation. (OK...maybe not...you can see that the talent doesn't lie here). OR maybe a bedframe with a rocket and some other scribbling on it to commemorate the time that the boys told me that they were drawing on the bed...I of course thinking that they were sitting on the bed drawing on paper...not actually the case...really they were drawing on the bed. OR maybe an explosion of toys to show what my living room looks like everyday. OK, OK...so clearly I am not the creative genius that my sister is...but these are priceless memories...I hope that I will always be able to look at them a laugh. But if you want to see some really awesome and sweet designs inspired by children and life with them...go check out Erin's website...it is well worth the look (I know I am biased...but trust me...I am totally smarter than I look).

I see them...

2010-02-18T17:36:00.001+10:00

Sydney's two front teeth that is. They are there...gigantic and waiting to break through. You know...just on the verge...where you can see how big they are for her tiny mouth...but just not quite through yet. Unfortunately these buggers are causing a lot of restless nights at our house lately and a lot of days with VERY short naps. Right now Sydney isn't napping for more than a hour at a time, unless she is sleeping on someone's chest (did I mention that she might be slightly spoiled?) At night I am giving her Tylenol to get her through...that seems to improve her sleep quality...although I can't say it is doing anything for mine.

Haputo...

2010-02-16T21:22:00.009+10:00

Haputo is a beach here near us...well...sort of near us. Anyway, we decided to go with some friends on Monday (President's Day) since Brent had the day off. Now before you think "SERIOUSLY, your going to tell us about a BEACH trip you made" let me explain. Haputo is a beach...HOWEVER, to get to Haputo you have to hike through the jungle (yes, I said jungle) to get to this beautiful beach. Now...when I said "yes" to this trip, I had NO IDEA what the hike was like. I simply made this decision based on the fact that some friends of ours with a little guy Tommy's size have been and said that they didn't really have to carry their little guy. So I figured if they can do it then we can to. And we did...but...it was a little bit of an adventure. See in some spots the "trail", if you can call it that, is a pretty steep, STEEP hill...especially if you are carrying your 8 month old in your arms because you cannot locate your Baby Bjorn to save your life! But we ventured down (and I am glad we did) Brent with a 30 lb (at least) pack on his back, holding Tommy's hand the whole way. Haley and Jake were pretty much fine on their own and fascinated by all the "nature" (i.e. big spiders, and yucky things) around us. I brought up the rear with Sydney in my arms praying that I didn't slip and fall and break my neck, leg or baby.

When we did finally get to the bottom, it was gorgeous (of course) and the kids had a fabulous time playing in the sand and water...they snorkeled some, then chased hermit crabs...Tommy loves to catch them and put them in a bucket together. I was a wonderful afternoon for all of us.

Sydney checking out her feet in the water.

On the hunt for hermit crabs...

GOT ONE!!!

Don't you just LOVE this little face?

Here She Goes...

2010-02-09T15:53:00.002+10:00

Syd has started to pull herself up...yep...it's all over. The peanut is officially on the move and not stopping anytime soon. So, I have decided to post some video of it...mostly for my family and Brent's family to see...but I hope the rest of you enjoy it as well.

SERIOUSLY?!?

2010-02-05T14:13:00.003+10:00

OK...I have a few things that fall into this category...boys with strings and something tied to the end of that string. It instantly becomes a weapon with which we must whack every person in the house. SERIOUSLY?!? OR...my four year old who stands inches from his baby sister's face and swings his leg back and forth, missing her precious little nose and mouth by a quarter of an inch each time he swings that leg. SERIOUSLY?!? OR when I repeat myself fifty million times (only a slight exaggeration) to my 7 year old to go DO HIS SCHOOLWORK! SERIOUSLY?!? OR when I ask the boys to play QUIETLY in their room because their little sister (who kept me up half the night) is napping...and soon hear the LOUDEST PLAYING ON THE PLANET! SERIOUSLY?!? AAAHHHHH!!!!!
My other quandary is Menu planning...I usually do this Friday or Saturday because I can go shopping on one of those days without dragging the crew with me (because we all know how much fun it is to take 4 kiddos, two of which are very energetic boys, to the grocery store.) Friday evenings, or Saturday mornings are the only times that Brent can really guarantee that he is going to be around to watch everyone. I digress...ANYWHO...by the time that I get to Friday the great "what do we want to have for dinner" debate begins. It can't be anything that takes too long to make...here's why. At about 4 p.m. I start to prepare dinner...about 15 minutes (if that) into my preparation, Tommy emerges from wherever he has been and rubs his little belly and says "I'm hungry" in a VERY whiny voice. Then (I kid you not) about two minutes later Jake emerges from wherever he has been and in the same whiny voice says "I'm hungry" and also rubs his belly. SERIOUSLY?!? So the next 45 minutes are spent trying to make dinner and asking the boys to stop whining and running interference to keep their minds off how "hungry" they are. Again, I digress...so Friday's making of the meal plan has become quite a chore for me...especially considering all the different palates in this house, etc. I have become quite annoyed with this chore. P.S. It's Friday and I am making my menu plan for this week.

Chatecism according to Tommy...

2010-02-02T21:45:00.003+10:00

So this evening I was sitting down with the kids at the dinner table going over the shorter Chatecism with them. Tommy knows quite a few of the answers and has learned a few more by just listening to Haley and Jake say their answers. Tonite the question that I asked Tommy was, "Who tempted them to this sin (Adam and Eve)?" The answer is: The devil tempted Eve and she gave the fruit to Adam. Tommy looked at me for a minute, tapped his temple with his forefinger while scrunching up his face and said..."What is it?" Seeing that he was having a little difficulty remembering the answer...I decided to give him a hint. "The devil..." I said. He looked at me with this wincing mean look on his face and said, "The devil snake!" Jake and I laughed so hard!

6 1/2 HOURS!

2010-01-29T08:14:00.002+10:00

That is how many hours STRAIGHT I slept last night!!!! I am so excited! Sydney has been waking up every four hours at night to eat (she is still a peanut, so I don't begrudge her the night feedings). But last night I was able to get her to take a bottle after nursing and she slept for 6 1/2 hours straight! It was AWESOME! And now onto another full day...

Our Christmas in Guam...

2010-01-24T15:43:00.007+10:00

OK...so I said that I would try to say a little about Christmas this year...so here it is. We enjoyed all the traditional things for our family...opening one gift Christmas eve, cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning...and then our traditional Skype date with family (the day after Christmas for us...but Christmas day for them). I LOVE watching the kids open their gifts...the joy that comes over their faces when that thing that they have been asking for (and waiting for) is in the package that they are tearing open. One of my favorite gifts for the kids this year were the jammies that Aunt Beka and Uncle Joel got for them. They boys jammies said "Dear Santa, I can explain..." and while we may not have Santa as a big part of our celebration here...it was kinda funny to think about how appropriate statement for the boys that statement is.

We were very blessed this year to have Brent here with us for Christmas...but we did miss being with our extended family, and the kids were bummed especially since Poppi and Peeps (my parents) had snow at their house this year. But all in all we enjoyed our tropical Christmas.

Oh yeah...I forgot to mention the blinky Rudolph noses that the boys also got from their Uncle Joel and Aunt Beka...which they had both broken by the next morning...mostly because they were using them as a weapon against each other. Sydney also got jammies...but she is such a peanut that they were too big for her...and she was sleeping when we took these pictures.

Vacuum Cleaner and the box...

2010-01-21T12:08:00.003+10:00

So I am posting two more videos today. One is of the boys doing what they call "Vacuum Cleaner"...it is pretty funny. Normal...NO...Funny...YES. Watch it you'll probably at least get a chuckle. After they do "vacuum cleaner" ...they then transition to playing horsey...which consists of smacking each others rear ends and "galloping" down the hall as fast as you can. YES, this is a normal day at my house...I know it may not happen this way at yours...but what can I say.
The second video is Sydney...it is mostly just a cute video...but at the end of it she is play with a box. This is the box that my mom got her as a Christmas present. My mom, being the practical lady that she is, found this box and since Syd is really to young to get into Christmas this year anyway AND (bonus) the box would fit in our suitcases while we were flying home...decided that this is the year to get something boring like a box to hold toys for Christmas. Funny thing...it is probably Syd's FAVORITE toy. She could care less about the stuff that I put in it...she would much rather lay on the floor and play with the box itself. It is a riot. She folds and unfolds it...takes stuff out, puts it back in...she LOVES this box. I don't know how we are going to top this next year.

My Ipod Nano...

2010-01-20T07:49:00.002+10:00

OK...so I haven't really recorded anything about Christmas...and maybe one day I will get around to that...MAYBE. But one thing that my wonderful husband got me this year was an Ipod Nano. This thing is pretty awesome. I can now take digital video so easily...which is great because our only other video camera is circa 1998 or so, and is the kind that takes tapes. Yes, people we have not yet emerged from the 90s. Anywho...this little nano camera has allowed me to capture some great video of Sydney lately, who is learning to eat solids, crawl, etc. So I figured that I would post a couple of these videos so that you too can see my little peanut growing up. Hope that you enjoy them.

Saying Goodbye...

2010-01-12T17:16:00.003+10:00

So this is my LEAST favorite part of being in the Navy...the part where you make wonderful friends (I LOVE this part) and then they get new orders and move on (the part I REALLY don't like). And true to every place that the Navy has sent us...it is now time for some of our friends to leave us. This past weekend we said goodbye to two very special people...Todd and Jolene. They are the two wonderful people who took care of ALL THREE of my big kids when I was in the hospital having Sydney. Now...for those of you who have kids you know that this is no small undertaking...for those of you who know MY kids know that this is a HUGE undertaking. They were fabulous! There were other folks involved too...but for the large part Todd and Jolene had the kids for two days (and a night too.) They have always been wonderful to our kids...and to us. I will really, really miss them. I wish that the goodbyes got easier the more "practice" I got...but they never do...and I don't think they ever will.

Teeth...

2009-12-18T11:22:00.003+10:00

Yep...it is hard to believe but our little Sydney is now 6 months old and her two bottom teeth are just BARELY peeking through her gums. I mean BARELY...there are the little white spots on her gums and the swelling that come with getting those buggers. Her sweet little personality is still there...BUT at night there is a little bit of a difference. She isn't nasty...she just wants someone to hold her ALL the time. So being the weakling that I am...we spend most evenings on the couch together...while she sleeps on my chest. This has only been the past few days...but we don't seem to be making any rapid progress on getting those teeth through, so it could go on for awhile. I LOVE this stage...and Sydney is a particularly snuggly baby...part of this could be that she is 6 months old and only 12 lbs, 12 oz - yes, she is a peanut. But to be totally honest...it makes me feel like I have my baby a little longer. She is already growing up too fast. First the teeth, now she is trying to "Marine crawl" (or for those in "other" military services - "Army crawl"), she is so much more aware of her surroundings...says "da, da, da" although I am pretty sure that she doesn't associate it with Brent yet. Growing so fast...these days go so quickly. I will post some new pictures soon...

FOR THE LOVE OF PETE!!!!!

2009-12-06T15:17:00.002+10:00

HOLY SMOKES!!!! Anyone with boys should understand this sentiment. (OR if you know my boys...you may also understand this sentiment). So this afternoon, after I had just gotten home from the Commissary with groceries, I hear screaming and yelling going on in the boys room. For fear that WWE has commenced in the boys room...I run back there to see what is going on. We (Brent and I) separate them and put them in their neutral corners. Then the investigation begins...Brent takes Jake, I get Tom. My conversation with Tommy went something like this: Me: "Tommy, what happened in here?" Tommy (in a very matter of fact voice): "Well, first I was beating on Jakey." Me: "Beating?!?" (Just checking to make sure that I heard him correctly). Tom: "Yes, beating. Then he started doing this to me." (He begins to hit himself on the head). This is not an uncommon conversation in our house...Tommy often "helps" Jake "check in to reality" by beating him, hitting him...or what he just did two seconds ago..."Here, I'll pinch you." Still trying to figure out how to keep this kind of behavior to a minimum. But sometimes I get a chuckle in the middle of all of it.

Christmas Postcards...

2009-11-30T15:33:00.002+10:00

For those of you who don't know...my sister, Erin, is a FABULOUS photographer (I think I may have mentioned that a few times)...and also wonderful at many other things. Something that she is doing this year is Christmas Postcards. She will design and personalize them according to your requests...then have them printed and sent to you. YES, this is a shameless plug for my sister...one which she DID NOT put me up to! I thought that since I liked them so much that ya'll might want to share in the fun. So to see what she can do for you...go to www.erinwallace.net. Her "Tiny Twists" division page will come up right away with samples of the different designs that she currently has. They are BEAUTIFUL (have I mentioned that yet?)...and we will DEFINATELY be ordering some. Check it out!

Guam...sweet Guam...

2009-11-21T13:14:00.002+10:00

Well, we made it. After an epic journey to the States - just one mom and four kids, and another epic journey back with one mom, one dad, and four kids...we are HOME. Yes, home in Guam...and although there are things about Guam that may not always make me happy (ie. a lack of a Starbucks - not a single one on this island). It is nice to be home where we do what we do as a family in "normal" life...whatever that is. What an adventure the last few months have been...and I would do it again in a heartbeat. My mom and dad were FANTASTIC in every way...loving me, supporting me, and encouraging me while I LIVED with them. It may not have been the most ideal situation for them...but I recognize the great sacrifice they made for me and I am so very thankful. It is good to be home now though with Brent where we can see him and hug him everyday. God has been so good to our little (or not so little) family and we are so thankful. So now we will look at what He is putting before us in Guam and be thankful for our time here...our friends here, and the opportunities He sets before us. Now if we could just get our internal clocks back to Guam time...

Homecoming...

2009-10-26T05:08:00.004+10:00

HE'S HOME!!!! The wait is finally over and on Thursday this week at zero dark thirty (as we Navy types like to say) Brent arrived at Dulles airport to his ecstatic wife and very excited children. We missed him so much! We have had a whirlwind of a weekend...Erin, my sister, arrived on Wednesday and went to the airport with us on Thursday morning to take pictures of our reunion. (They were fabulous of course, and can be viewed on Facebook). My brother, Josh, also arrived home on Wednesday for a quick pass through from college before going on a retreat this weekend. We got to see him for a day and a half...then he was off again. On Friday the rest of the family arrived. Erin's husband Chris, my sister Beka and her husband Joel, and my grandfather - Poppi Bob (as we call him). So this weekend we had 16 people all staying under one roof together and it was AWESOME! We normally have a week where our WHOLE family gets together at the beach, but this year that wasn't possible for us or for my brother-in-law Chris...so this was kinda like a shortened version of that (except we were missing Josh). It was busy and there were a lot of things going on, but we celebrated birthdays that had happened and that will happen in the next couple of months, we sat around and talked and played, and just generally enjoyed being a family. This is the part of life that I miss when we are on Guam...the part where the family gets together for those special occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas. So I am thankful that I got to have a little piece of that before going back.

So true...so true...

2009-10-20T04:03:00.001+10:00

Tommy just told me, "Mom, I make up my own rules." This is so true on SO many levels.

Strange...but funny...

2009-10-20T02:09:00.001+10:00

I was just sitting with Tommy at the kitchen table eating lunch with him. He asked me to get him a drink of milk...and I asked him where his cup from this morning was. "Downstairs." "Well, you need to go downstairs and get it and then I will get you a drink of milk." "I can't." "Why not?" "Because there are balls in my feet." "What?" "There are balls in my feet and they are going nutso." Not kidding...exactly what he said...word for word. Weird...but funny.

10 Years...

2009-10-16T10:27:00.004+10:00

It's official...I have now been a mom for 10 years. Meaning, of course, that our beautiful sweet Haley turned 10 today. Wow. Never could I have imagined what this life of motherhood would hold for me. So many treasures for my heart in the blessings that are my children. Yeah...we have our tough moments, but the moments of hugs, I love yous, smiles, and laughter make motherhood the joy that it is. I can't believe how quickly my children are growing...someday I will look back and remember with happiness these moments that I have with them. I am truly blessed to be a mom. As for Haley, well, she is a beautiful young lady with blue eyes like her daddy. It all seems to have happened so quickly. Happy Birthday my sweet Haley.

The Home Stretch...

2009-10-09T00:46:00.003+10:00

It's official...I am in the home stretch of this deployment and I couldn't be happier! It won't be long now and my wonderful husband will be home with us again...and I will be so happy to have him here. It has been a long haul for us this time...2 months of pregnancy, one baby born (on a remote island, I might add), lots of figuring life out with 4 instead of 3 kids, several thousands of miles traveled, a couple of blissful months at home with my parents...all without him...and now - HE IS COMING HOME! I can't wait! God has been so good to us throughout this deployment, and I am so thankful for all His provisions...and now my husband gets to come home to a HUGE "Welcome Home" crew. A large part of my family will be there...my parents, my brother, my sister and her two kids, and of course ME and MY kids...including 1 little girl who will soon get to meet her daddy for the first time. Erin (my awesome photographer/web designing sister) will be on hand for coming home pictures...so stay tuned!

I WIN!!!!!!

2009-10-07T06:21:00.002+10:00

OK, so what did I win? I got mommy street cred! I won a battle with my three (soon to be four) year old. Here's what happened. Last night we had a "mexican lasagna" type dinner...black beans, hamburger, salsa, etc. Well, Tommy decided he was not going to eat it. He dinked around and ate everything else on his plate (chips and corn). Now being the loving mommy that I am I know that kids need more than chips and corn for dinner...for starters they both come from the same food group. For cryin' out loud they are both CORN! I digress. So I told Tommy that he WAS going to eat his dinner and he wasn't going to get anything else to eat until he did. I have really been trying to stick to my guns with him lately because he has been walking all over me. So in my mind this battle was already won...he just didn't know it yet. Well, there was a ton of crying, screaming, yelling, frustration...etc. He just didn't want to eat what was on his plate. Everyone else finished their dinner, we cleaned up everything from the table and Tommy was still sitting at his place crying about having to eat his dinner. I was beginning to get tired of fighting this battle...but I wasn't about to let him win! Long story short...he was just too far gone to get him to eat his dinner...so I picked him up, took him downstairs and put him to bed. Then I came upstairs and scraped everything from his plate into a tuperware bowl and put it in the fridge for breakfast this morning. WHAT?!? Yes, you did read that right...and maybe you think I am a mean mommy...but what you don't understand is that this was more a battle of the wills than anything else. See, Tommy thought he had won last night when I put him to bed and he didn't have to eat his dinner. So this morning when he got up...I got out his dinner warmed it up for him (I am not as mean as you think) and then set it in front of him. OH BOY! Was he mad! "WHAT? I HAVE TO EAT DINNER FOR BREAKFAST?" Me: "Yep, you have to eat your dinner before you get any other food, breakfast or otherwise." Tom: "But it is yucky." Me: "You heard what I said...if you don't eat that you don't get anything else." And after much wailing and carrying on...HE ATE IT ALL! I, of course, congratulated him with the appropriate enthusiasm. We hugged and said I love yous and then he was able to have breakfast...a real breakfast.

Boys, blogs, etc...

2009-10-04T09:45:00.000+10:00

I told this story to some friends last night and feel that I would be remiss in not including it in the chronicles of my life as a mother of two boys. When we arrived in Hawaii during our trek here to Maryland from Guam we frequented some of the places that we have missed going to while living on Guam. One of our favorites...Target. This Target was made even more attractive by the Starbucks located at the very front of the store. So on a day when we were trying to figure out what to do to pass some time...we went to Target of course. We were all enjoying a beverage from Starbucks on this particular day. I had an iced latte, and the kids each had a juice box. I finished my iced beverege and was moving the straw around to see if I could get any last little bit that might be left in the bottom of my cup. While moving the straw it made "that noise" - you know the one that I am talking about. Anyway, it made that noise and Tommy turned around so fast, looked me straight in the eye, and said in a VERY loud voice, "Was that your BUTT?" Haley, Jake and I all looked at him in surprise and then started laughing. It was so unexpected and so loud and so FUNNY. Needless to say, we gathered our things quickly and left Target.
Something else I have been contemplating lately...a change of title for this blog. Don't really know what I want to call it...but something different maybe? I don't know. Still processing that one.
Among brighter news...we are counting down days now...less than 30 til we see our daddy again. I am so ready! I am so thankful that the Lord allowed us to come here to be with my parents...it has been a huge blessing. But I am ready to have my husband home, and to be our family again. He is going to take some leave and we are going to do some visiting...then it is back to Guam and our life there. I am looking forward to it all. I will be sad to leave my family and his family again...but I will gladly follow that man anywhere. He is the love of my life.

Boys will be boys...

2009-09-25T04:00:00.000+10:00

So the latest in the saga of shenanigans by my youngest son, Tommy...
Yesterday, I heard Jake yelling at Tommy "NO TOMMY DON'T DO THAT." At first I was tempted to ignore the yelling and let them work it out...but after a few more times of hearing Jake's rather desperate pleas...I decided I'd better investigate. I walked down the stairs to the basement of my parents home (where we are living right now). As I got to the bottom of the stairs I was greeted by Tommy, pants around his ankles "aimed to strike" and telling Jake "I'm going to pee on you." No, I am NOT making this up! No pee had been released yet and Jake was on the ground still pleading for mercy. Tommy looked up at me, big grin on his face and said "Hi, Mom." I gave him that "are you kidding me" look...and told him that he'd better rethink his current plan. Now, I am pretty sure that Tommy would never really have peed on his brother (actually, I am not really sure about anything...I am just hoping) but I think he was really just enjoying Jake's reaction. More to come from the boys I'm sure.

Sisters, sisters...

2009-09-16T09:25:00.000+10:00

There is a movie you may have heard of it...White Christmas. It stars Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye...and they get involved with these two sisters who sing in a club together (the old time kind of club...not the clubs of today). Anyway, when you first encounter the two sisters they are doing their act (sing and dance) and the song goes like this... "Sisters, Sisters...there were never such devoted sister...never had to have a chaperone, no sir...I'm there to keep my eye on her...caring, sharing...every little thing that we are wearing...When a certain gentleman arrived from Rome...she wore the dress and I stayed home. Many men have tried to split us up but no one can...Lord help the mister who comes between me and my sister, and Lord help the sister who come between me and my man!"

The reason that I bring this song up is because it sometimes reminds me of my sister Erin and me. We have shared a lot of things over the years as we grew up. We have been frustrated beyond belief with one another and then best friends. The truth of the matter is that we are really the best of friends all the time. When she found out that I was coming back here to the states...she made and extra trip down to my parents house (even though she had just come back from a LONG road trip, two weddings, Disney World, and lots of other visiting). I can't tell you what that meant to me. She also happens to be THE BEST PHOTOGRAPHER IN THE WORLD... OK so maybe I am a little biased, but she has taken pictures of each of my kids as babies (and as they have grown up...but those baby pics are priceless)...and so I was so blessed by the fact that she was able to take Sydney's first baby pictures too. They are beautiful...I love everything about them.

She and her kiddos (Cami and Noah) came down and spent an entire week with us...it was so great. I was fun to catch up, to get to see my growing niece and nephew, to enjoy my sisters company. It is hard to describe how much it meant to me...but it truly brought me great joy. We have been blessed, Erin and I, with a unique friendship wrapped up in sisterhood. I wouldn't trade it for the world.

Home is where your family is...

2009-09-15T10:36:00.001+10:00

Navy life...it is not always conducive to calling a location home. Like I can't always call Virginia Beach home...that is not where I live right now...it is where we own a house...but it isn't where I live. But I have had time to think about this lately since my parents moved last summer as did Brent's and I have come to the conclusion that for me...Home is where my family is. That applies to both my parents and my in-laws. I have the extreme fortune to have in-laws whom I am very comfortable with and have great joy in visiting. They moved last summer to Lookout Mountain in Georgia...right near their old alma mater Covenant College. I LOVE their new home. They built it from the ground up with visiting children and grandchildren in mind. It is so wonderful to go there and visit with them...the warm feeling and comfort of home comes over me when I walk into their home and remember "I am here with people who love me and want to support me however they can." This is the way that I feel at my parents house too. And although their location has changed...I still feel the same when I walk into their new house. It is like being wrapped up in a cozy blanket or getting the best hug in the world. There is no other feeling like it. I hope that as my children grow...and live in many different locations that they too will feel this way when they come back to see Brent and I after they have all grown and gone off with their own families...I hope that "home" wherever it maybe will always hold a special place in their heart and that they will always have the feeling of love and warmth when they come home...wherever it may be located.

Miscellaneous Musings...

2009-09-15T10:19:00.000+10:00

Interesting how things come to our minds sometimes while we are just sitting around really doing nothing...or at least trying to do nothing. I have been thinking about Guam lately...yeah, I know weird right? I mean - I couldn't wait to get off the island...and now here I am enjoying myself immensely and yet I find my mind wandering to the island and my friends there. I think that is the thing though...my friends that is. Truth be told...Guam hasn't been my favorite place to live as far as environment and surroundings go...but it has been one of the greatest places for making friends. I have some great friends in Guam. These people have supported me while Brent has been gone...watched the kids for me, invited me over, just encouraged me in so many ways. I had NO IDEA how the Lord was going to bless me with the people that He has surrounded me with in Guam. My friend Brandi, who went with me to the hospital...stayed with me all day while I labored until I had Sydney...came home immeadiately and posted pictures on Facebook so that my husband could see his baby girl right away. My friend Jolene and Todd...who (God bless them) took all three of my big kids while I was in the hospital having Sydney, and kept the kids overnight just enjoying them and playing with them. Truly I was surprised that the kids wanted to come home after all the fun they had there. The friends that I had that filled in during the day while Jolene and Todd were working...Erin, and Tracy. And the friends that have just watched my kids for me so that I can get a few "sanity moments" to myself...Tessa, Erin, Audria, Brandi, and many more. I can't tell you how these people have blessed my life and how I have seen the grace of God through them and their willingness to just help me out through all these things. I even had friends who helped me prepare the house for a Typhoon drill that happened the day that Sydney was born. I didn't have to ask - they just stopped to see if I needed anything.
And so as my mind wandered today...I was again blessed as God brought to mind these people that He has placed in my life. I am thankful for them.

Toes and Travel...

2009-09-10T11:21:00.000+10:00

OK...so first I have to tell you that I think I may have broken my toe today. No...that has nothing to do with my epic journey, and has more to do with my three year old whom I was walking to his room for timeout when I tripped and bent my toe backwards...and may have broken it. What do you do for a broken toe? NOTHING - except take some pain killers. You can't cast a toe - so I ask what is the point of going to have anything done for it?

I digress.

So I left you with my decision to come to travel to the states, with my four kiddos, by myself. Crazy? YOU BET! But I also knew that if I could just get to my parents house that things would start to look better and time would move faster for this deployment. All the other positives...well, getting to see our whole family whom we haven't seen in a year or so. All good reasons to make the trip.
The kids and I packed and we were signed up to MAC to Hawaii. We had to try a couple of times before we actually got on a flight...but the biggest pain was that we thought we would make it back for Beka's wedding...but our flight kept getting delayed and finally a week had gone by and we weren't going to make it. It was sad, but I knew that if the Lord had wanted us at that wedding He could have had the plane working to get us there.
We finally did get on a flight to Hawaii...it took a little over a week for us to actually get on a plane...the kids were so excited by the time that we actually got on the plane, I just kept praying that we would take off, and then make it past the halfway point so that we didn't have to turn around (yes, they do actually do that). Everything was a go. So we flew for almost 8 hours on a KC-135 in jump seats from Guam to Hawaii. When we arrived in Hawaii they took us to the terminal in a bus...I couldn't see a place to rent a car or catch a cab...it was midnight and I had NO IDEA how I was going to get myself and the four kids to someplace where we could sleep for the night...I almost started to cry. Just as I was about to break down in tears I saw something that made me want to cry even more. Walking through the door were two dear friends Josh and Jesse Lewis. My mom had called them and they were there to pick the kids and I up and take us home with them. I was so relieved. They were such a gift from the Lord for me. I don't know what I would have done had they not been there. Anyway, we went home with them...where we ended up spending four days. They were wonderful hosts...and we had a fabulous time. After my boys had generally run amuck, continually chased their cat around, launched battery operated candles off the banister (breaking them), melted a RED crayon in their dryer WITH OUR CLOTHES...well, I decided that we needed to go stay at the Lodge. Jesse kept saying..."Oh, you don't have to go." I told her, "Jesse, I would love to stay but for my sanity with these boys...I need to go." So we moved to the Navy Lodge. That in itself was an adventure having all 5 of us in one room. So the next day when the flight to Andrews was cancelled and my options were diminishing...my wonderful husband called and said..."I want you to go ahead and commercial it home." I got online and found the best rate that I could and booked a flight that night for all of us to fly home. So we left Honolulu at around 6:30 p.m. - made two stops...one on another island and one in Seattle...and flew into Reagan National in DC the next day. Considering that we flew for so long...the blow out of a diaper in first class, the random yelling by Tommy while he was trying to sleep on the flight, the barfing from Jake's motion sickness, and the general tiredness of everyone...really didn't matter when we arrived in DC and our journey was over. The kids were so happy to be so close to getting to Poppy and Peep's house. It was so exciting. My dear friend Tim picked us up at the airport and again...it was so wonderful to have someone there to help me. He brought Chick-Fil-A for the kids and I - which we hadn't had in over a year (no Chick-Fil-A on Guam) and we drove to a park to wait out the DC traffic. It was great! The kids enjoyed the food and the park...EVERYTHING. When we got home...I felt like a huge load had been lifted from my shoulders...I was home...I would be here until my husband could join me...it was so great to know that I would be surrounded by family until I could be with my husband again. And so my journey ended...we survived and we were happy.

Blog...what blog?

2009-09-01T12:36:00.000+10:00

I know that many of you think that this is my attitude towards my blog...but really life has just been a little busy around here. But actually my "here" has changed. I am now living with my parents for the next two and a half months until my hubby returns home. Actually, he will be traveling back here to the States and we will all travel back to Guam together. So a lot has changed in my life over the past couple of months...and I will try to catch everyone up...but it will have to be in segments...because well...I just can't do it all at once. So, yes, I am 33 years old and I am living at my parents house again. I guess I should start with how I came to be here...
As you know, Sydney Faith - our beautiful baby girl was born on June 9th. My mom was planning on coming out for a couple of weeks after Sydney's birth...in between wedding planning (for my sister Beka's wedding) and all the other stuff that my mom always has going on. Anyway, the morning she was supposed to leave on the plane something happened and she had to go to the hospital. It turned out that she had a returning infection, and that it just wasn't a good idea for her to be traveling to Guam (the pinnacle of health care) with this infection still brewing. So we said...let's postpone until after the wedding. Another month went by...the kids got the piggy flu...I was exhausted...you get the picture. But we got through it...and my mom called about 2 weeks before the wedding and said that she had rebooked her flight to come out to Guam middle of August. YAY!!!! I was so relieved. I went to bed that night so excited for my mom (and Grace) to come out to Guam and spend time with us. The next morning my dad called. "Katie" "Hi, Dad. How are you?" "Katie, your mom fell yesterday and broke her hip." My heart did a nose dive....literally. I started crying. I was crying for her and I was crying for me. "Dad, she isn't going to be able to come now." "Now sweetie, don't count your mom out yet." "DAD...she broke her HIP...she isn't getting on a plane anytime soon." I, of course, asked how she was doing and where she was and what they were doing for her. But dad said, "The first thing she said to me was 'I feel so bad for Katie.'" More tears...sobbing really. My mom's first thought was for me...even though she was laying (or sitting -don't really know which) there probably in a LOT of pain...with a BROKEN HIP. I love my mom...have I mentioned that? Anyway, still feeling so discouraged and heartbroken...I got off the phone with my dad, having him promise to keep me updated on mom's status...and I called my mother-in-law...whom I also LOVE. She felt terrible for both my mom and I...and she talked with me and prayed with me (because she is wonderful) and then said "Katie, have you thought about coming home?" "Linda, it is such a long trip and I would have four kids by myself. I would have to MAC (military flight) because we can't afford to by tickets from Guam for all of us. I just don't think that I can do it." Well, by the time that I got off the phone with my mother-in-law...I was halfway to Annapolis in my mind. I called my dad and asked him what he thought about me coming home. He was really positive about it. I told him that I needed to talk to Brent about it still and that I wasn't sure that I was going to do it...but I also knew that I needed to see what my mom thought. To be honest...I wasn't really sure what she would say. I figured out of everyone - that she would be the one that would see the REAL side of things. So when I talked to her the next day...I asked her what she thought...she said "I think it is a great idea." I was thrilled! and so the beginning of my epic journey had begun...I tell more later...but this is it for now.

Misadventures of the Moores...

2009-06-28T11:32:00.001+10:00

I am contimplating this for the title of a book (not really, but there is a story here). I have two very energetic and precocious boys. I love them to death, but some days I wonder if they will make it to see adulthood...followed by wondering if I will make it til they are adults. My dear friend Audria has told me repeatedly that I ought to write a book filled with the things that they do that are slightly hilarious - although often not until later. I am not sure that I have a book full yet...but I do have quite a few things that I would be able to put in a book, but I am not sure who would want to read the book. For instance, this week I looked at both Jake and Tommy, after a very exasperating afternoon of constantly telling them to quiet down and knock off the crazy stuff, I said "Jake and Tom, if you two don't stop acting like this you are going to send mommy to the funny farm." Jake turns and looks at me and with a deadpan look on his face responds, "...and that is not a funny place." Seriously...where do these kids come up with this stuff. There are other stories to be told...like the time that I heard Tommy yelling at Jake while they were in the shower together, "Jake, stop peeing on me." Yes, I had to go into the bathroom and tell my 7 year old son not to pee on his brother. I couldn't believe that I was actually saying those words...but I was. Or there is also the time that Tommy dropped trow to pee in the middle of the birthday party of a friend. Fortunately, they have boys too, so her mommy was really just laughing at the whole situation. If I ever thought that I had it together in raising children...I have been humbled deeply by my boys...who are at the very least unpredictable. I find myself laughing later at the humor of the situation...even though at the time I am sometimes completely humiliated. But I have found that sometimes knowing these things about our family makes other friends more comfortable when their kids have trouble or do something unexpected. I usually just smile and say "I know, this kinda stuff happens around here all the time." And truly it does.

11th Anniversary...

2009-06-21T17:25:00.000+10:00

June 20th - my 11 year anniversary. Wow...I almost can't believe it. I have been married to my wonderful husband for 11 years...and they have been so full of adventure, love, trials, happiness, etc. I realize as I spend another anniversary without Brent (cause we have spent a few apart) how blessed I am to have him for my husband. He is a wonderful father to our kids, a great husband to me...and my best friend. I know that the Lord chose him for me...and the choice that He made is beyond perfect. While I was here in Guam and Brent was in the desert...he made arrangements through friends to give me 2 dozen long stemmed red roses. He wanted me to know that he loves me...and it is those little things that he does for me that remind me how blessed I am. So sorry girls...but he's taken. I love you with all my heart Brent.

Catching Up...

2009-06-21T13:08:00.000+10:00

Well, I haven't posted for a long time...everytime I thought about it...I could think of ten other things that I really needed to do instead. So now it is time to catch up. Sydney Faith Moore arrived on June 9th 2009. Yay! I can honestly say that had to be one of the best days since the start of this deployement...and pregnancy. I was so relieved to not be pregnant anymore. I had my wonderful friend Brandi with me during my labor and delivery...and even though the end of the delivery was excruciating (my epidural wore off)...Brandi was calm and encouraging. She was the perfect person to have with me since I couldn't have Brent or any family members there. She was so encouraging the whole time...and I truly enjoyed having her there. She called the CO of our squadron as soon as Sydney arrived, and the CO called Brent. I was able to talk to Brent probably about 10 or so minutes after Sydney arrived. It was really good to hear his voice...and I know that he was relieved that Sydney had arrived without any complications, or problems.
Now that she is here...things are really going well. She is a great sleeper and a great nurser. All that said...her brothers are trying to adjust to the fact that they can't run through the house yelling at the top of their lungs anymore. Well, at least not without getting reprimanded by their mother. It is still chaotic here...but I feel more sane and able to handle it when I get up in the mornings now. The Lord has been so good to us, we have so many friends checking in, bringing us dinner, and just generally looking after us. We really miss having Brent around for all the beginning of Sydney's life...but we also know that the Lord controls those things...and His design is perfect.
The only thing that has changed in our plans is that my mom is now not able to come until August. Things just got too complicated...and now we have decided that the best thing for her to do is to wait and come later. It was hard at first thinking that she wouldn't be coming to help me out...but we have only postponed things for a little while...so I will still get to see her and Grace in August. I am so thankful for that.
So that will catch you up on what has happened since our little Sydney was born. She is beautiful and loved very much by all of her family.

A Happy Day...

2009-05-28T15:06:00.000+10:00

Today has been a fairly good day...not because I feel any less pregnant. In fact, I probably feel more pregnant now that I ever have. The frustrating thing about that is that when you go into the Doctor's office carrying a 40 lb load on your front...they check everything out and say "Well, Mrs. Moore, you are doing great! You are measuring right on, and you are not carrying too much extra weight." In my head I am thinking, "I'm sorry - did you miss the 40 lb basketball hanging off my front?" Seriously though, I know that they see pregnant people all day long, but you'd think a little sympathy for this little 5 foot 4 inch woman, who slowly waddles in to the clinic, could be mustered up. And then when I talk with them about "helping me" get the labor process started...my word! It's like I am negotiating some kind of illegal deal. "Well, Mrs. Moore, we typically don't induce until 41 weeks." "I understand Dr., but here's the deal...I am a nine month pregnant mother of three, who is tired, not sleeping well, whose husband is deployed, and who just wants to be done. So can you help me out?" You'd think that I just asked the guy to rob a bank or something the looks that I get. I don't know why they can't understand that I am done waiting for this baby to make up its mind to come out...why they think that I want to continue walking around carrying an extra 40 lbs for another week or two. "Oh sure Doc, no sweat." However, back to my original thought...this is a happy day for me because I found out that my mom has booked travel to come here. She will get here on the 15th of June (this is the day after I am due...so I am going to have to do some serious sweet talking witht the Doctor's so that I can be sure to be home with baby by then...but don't worry, I am NOT above crying, begging, or other forms of womanly persuasiveness.) I am so thankful that my mom is coming...she has been here after each one of the kids and she is always a huge help and just makes life easier. But this time it especially means a lot, not only because of the distance that she has to travel, but also because Brent is not here...so she is going to be the only family that I have seen for a while...and I can't wait. She is bringing Gracie with her too, which I am really excited about for the kids. We haven't seen my family since we left to come here, which will be just shy of a year when mom comes, and I know that the kids really miss them a ton. The greatest part of all this is that I haven't told the kids that Mom and Grace are coming (so please don't blow it for me) because I didn't want to deal with the "When are Peeps and Gracie getting here?" on top of everything else. So on the day that my mom arrives, I am simply going to pack them in the car and head for the airport, and when they ask where we are going and why THEN I will tell them. I know, I am kind of a mean mom, but they always love the surprise when I do it. P.S. this is also the way that I do homecomings for Brent...the kids don't know until we are on our way to pick him up. It makes for great surprises, but also a lot less pain and suffering if schedules get changed. So now you know, my great reason for having a happy day today...despite the temper tantrums and fit throwing, whining and everything else that has gone "wrong" today...it isn't going to ruin the fact that very soon my mom will be here! I am so thankful and happy.

Still Waiting...

2009-05-14T11:34:00.000+10:00

I know, I know...I am really still 4 to 5 weeks from having this baby...but I am in that stage where I just wish I were done...with the pregnancy part that is. All parts of my body are huge...or at least they feel that way...my face - well everything on it is a little swollen. I am still trying to recover from this sinus thing that I have had for more than a month now...things are just not quite "normal" around here. But then again...what is "normal" around here anyway. We are now officially in week 5 of Brent being gone...and although it has crept by at some times, we are doing OK, and we have lots of friends checking in on us. My family (who are very patient with me) get more phone calls from me than normal...mostly because I am just looking for some "adult" conversation. The kids too have been very patient with me. My energy level is not up to par these days...so they have been very good lately about finding ways to entertain themselves so that I can rest. I did buy them a bunch of "art" projects that they could do inside (because during the middle of the day here in Guam...well, you just don't want to be out there). So we have paper bag puppets galore, tissue paper art, and painting projects too innumerable to count. It is kinda fun though that they enjoy these things so much.
I think the biggest thing that I have been thinking over lately is that I need to consciously remember to count my blessings. It is easy for me to see the things that kinda stink...Brent being gone, the end of pregnancy, hot weather that makes it difficult for the kids to spend time outside playing, etc - the list could go on. But what I don't always focus on, or think about are the blessings that I have - that are sometimes so basic that I take them for granted. Here are a few. I have a husband who loves me with all his heart, and makes an effort to communicate with me on a regular basis even when he is deployed. I have three beautiful and healthy kids (well, most of the time) who are learning to be patient as we live in a place that is a little different from what we are used to. I have a home (even though it is small) that has air conditioning, and all the things that we truly need, and some of those things could be considered luxury depending on what you compare them to. I have dear friends here, who support and check in on me because they care. I have a wonderful extended family who loves me, takes time to talk to me on the phone, and they all continue to encourage me because they know that this is not easy right now. So for all those things I am truly thankful...and I am making an effort to concentrate on the blessings that are surrounding me each day.

ROCK FEVER...

2009-04-23T19:33:00.000+10:00

For those of you who don't know what this is...this is what happens when you are stuck on a tiny island in the middle of NOWHERE and you can't leave. This is my current condition. I am here in Guam...third trimester (so no one is going to let me go anywhere even if I wanted too)...no where to drive to get away from it all...JUST GUAM in all its glory. Truly believe that Guam is not a terrible place...but it doesn't have much to offer in the way of escape...from anything. There is not a ton to do here with the kids...although we spend a lot of time in our pool, or at the beach (if it is open and not closed due to "toxic" water runnoff or portuguese man of war...don't ask). But in the way of other activities...well, it is kind of limited. You'd think that maybe the Air Force would put in one of those big water playgrounds for the kids and canopy it so that you don't have to worry about the scorching sun...but they just don't think like that around here. And so...here we are...I have rock fever...missing Brent, my family, Brent's family...and just the freedom to be able to travel when andwhere I want to whenever I want to. So this deployment has a different tone to it for me. I know that I will survive - but I will need lots of prayer and I will have to set my mind to not being grumpy about the surroundings where I am. Right now - well, I am struggling with that. So if you think of it...pray for me...that I will have a right attitude and right outlook on my being here at this time.

A day like this...

2009-04-16T16:54:00.000+10:00

Well, it has been one of "those" days...the kind that when you get to the end of it, you are letting the kids watch movies just to get to bedtime. I don't that it has been exactly bad...I am just really tired and my body has had enough of this pregnancy abuse. My back is screaming out "why are you doing this to me" while my belly screams "I can't get any bigger - I promise" (although it will). I am definately feeling the effects of not having my husband around to take over in the evenings when I am just completely tuckered out (yes, I said tuckered). That isn't the only reason that I miss him. He is the best friend I have ever had...He brings a smile to my face even when I am feeling really stinky. He loves his children immensely, and supports me in ways that I never realize, well until he has to go. So today, I am having kind of an "I miss Brent" day. I know that I am allowed to have those...but I also have to keep perspective on the fact that I can't be in that place too long because it effects the kids. Haley is a champ - she is really trying to help me out...I think she sees how tired I get. And really the boys are trying, although I think Jake is trying harder than Tommy, mostly because I think he has a better understanding.
Speaking of Tommy, his latest thing that he gets a kick out of is that the baby (our baby) is naked inside my belly. He askes every few days "Is the baby naked?" "Yes, Tommy, the baby is naked. When it comes out we will put clothes on it." "Right now the baby is naked in your belly." "Yes, Tommy - the baby is naked inside my belly." Not really sure why it is such a big deal to him that the baby is naked inside my belly, but it is. This all came about because one day he asked me if the baby had socks on...I told him "No, the baby is naked in mommy's belly." And there you go. Strange.
I am thankful to have my children. They bring me joy, even on days where I am exhausted and just feel like I can't do anymore. Isn't it amazing that God gives us this gift in our kids, and we don't even know we need it.

Our "adopted" Pet...

2009-04-01T08:17:00.000+10:00

I am writing this before our "temporary" or "adopted" pet arrives this morning. What do I mean? Well, we are going to be taking care of a black lab for the next 2 1/2 weeks, while his "parents" travel to Thailand for vacation. Needless to say the kids are so excited they can barely stand it. Brent will be here for half of the time that Cash is here (Cash is the dog's name) and then I am hoping that Cash will be a great distraction for the kids as their dad takes off for the desert. We'll see...
The good thing about all this is that Cash is the best behaved dog on the planet. The boys roughhouse with him all the time and he just takes it. He is SO tolerant of their wildness. So the Moore family is about to have another temporary member. Should be fun!

Love for family...

2009-03-26T18:24:00.001+10:00

I LOVE my family. Each person in my family is a wonderful individual. I find myself being even more greatful for them each time I interact with them. This goes for my family here in Guam, as well as my extended family. Haley is the organized and orderly one in our family...she reminds me so much of her dad, except that she has all the emotions of a girl. Her desire is to help and please. She loves to be in charge of things (which is often times helpful), but also she loves to take time on her own to do art projects, read and just be a girl. Jake is and has always been my happy guy. His personality is sweet and loving...(don't get me wrong, he does lash out at his sibilings at times...but he is usually instantly sorry for it when he realizes what he has done). He is also the joker...he loves to tell jokes, to figure out punchlines, and almost always has a "funny story" to tell. Tommy, well he is so many things...he is our comic relief. Not because he tells jokes or anything, but just because he is funny. Sometimes I think his thinking process is way beyond his three years. This morning he came in and asked me if he could watch a movie...I said, "Tom, why don't you see if Haley will turn Disney on for you." He looked at me for a minute and then said, "Can I watch the Little Einstein's movie, that is Disney?" A little shocked at the fact that he could put that all together...I said sure and he motored along happy as a clam. It is stuff like that that can throw me for a loop with him. I can tell that his gears are always turning...which makes me wonder what I am to face as he gets older. But all in all, I love watching my kids...and appreciating what God is doing in their lives...despite all my failings.
I also appreciate my extended family...and that has been one of the hardest things about being here in Guam is how much I miss each of them. As I get ready to face a new deployment without the capability of traveling to see each of them...(where I often get a break from being the only responsible adult around) I am struck by the realization at how much I will miss that. Each of my family members is more than gracious to me during Brent's deployments...they all have had the kids and I come for visits at different times and will put us up for a week or more. It is a great comfort and encouragement to go and visit with each of them...they love on me in such wonderful ways. So to my family...each and every one of them...I miss you dearly and look forward to spending time together again when we return.

Feeling bad...

2009-03-20T14:52:00.000+10:00

I am starting to feel bad for starting this blog because clearly I am having trouble keeping up with it...or maybe I just have a lack of interesting things to say. Anyway, I may not use this as often as others, but I hope that maybe it will be effective when Brent is gone and we are dealing with the dailies here without him. It's funny when I think about the things that have happened over the past couple of weeks...I mean BIG things have happened in my extended family. My sister Beka (22) got engaged and will probably be getting married this August, my brother Josh (18) got into his choice college - Grove City College, and is completely stoked (do people use that word anymore - oh well, I do.) All of this brought me to the place where I began to think about how quickly time is going and how fast they have both grown up...then I started thinking about how fast my own children are growing up. I can still remember Beka and Josh as babies...and now they are getting married and going to college! I am rambling I know, but I guess the thing that struck me most is how short (relatively) my time with my kids is...before I know it they will be like Beka and Josh, and I will wonder where the time went. I am thankful that the Lord has given me this time to love and care for them, as well as train them...but I know that one day I will look back and miss the days of childhood that we are going through now, and that sometimes can seem like such a trial.

Impatiently Pregnant...

2009-03-06T09:43:00.000+10:00

So, some of you already know that about this time in pregnancy, I'm done. I don't mean that I actually have the baby, I mean that I want to have the baby because I am more or less tired of being pregnant. It usually happens when my every joint aches, I feel like if my belly stretches any more I am going to pop, and I am just generally uncomfortable. Well, I'm there. It is not that I don't love the end result, a beautiful child and blessing from the Lord (then they turn three, and I begin to wonder if I will make it through their childhood). It is the feeling that I have like after you have eaten too much at Thanksgiving dinner. Although, I have not eaten anything to get to this point, I just woke up from 6 hours of sleep. Most nights my sleep doesn't go uninterrupted either - between Tommy (who wakes up at least 2 times a night), my need to go potty every couple of hours, and then the occasional older child (or husband) waking...well, I am just not getting a ton of sleep. This also could account for my slightly altered attitude toward pregnancy. I forgot to mention the party that is being held on my insides every night about 10 or 11 p.m. It is crazy. So here I am - impatiently pregnant, with a few months to go, and knowing that the arrival of this baby will probably be one of the best days I have for awhile. But I wonder how it will go for the rest of my family, who are waiting patiently, but unaware of the chaos that is about to drop upon our home when baby arrives and it is just the kids and mom. Hmmm... I also wonder about Tommy, who keeps asking about the baby, but is unaware that he is about to lose his youngest child status...I wonder how he will feel and react to that. Should be interesting.

The beginning...

2009-03-05T15:58:00.000+10:00

OK - so I am finally starting a blog...a couple of things have inspired this. My sister Erin, has been telling me that I should do this for awhile...I've always been a procrastinator. Brent is getting ready for deployment, so I thought it might be a good way for him to keep up on our activities while he is gone. Also, I have been repeatedly told that I should record my "kid stories" - actually, mostly my "boy stories" for posterity sake - as well as encouraging other moms that "yes, your boys are just being boys." Beside the added benefit for my family being able to see what we are up to while we are out here in "the boonies" of Guam. The title of my blog is such because it is something that my three year old, Tommy, has been asking me on a regular basis lately. I can't decide if this is simply affirmation on his part that, yes, Mom really is in charge, or if it is his way of finding out if he has moved up the pecking order of our family lately. It is a good question though if you think about it...to be totally honest, NO, I am not in charge. I am fully persuaded that God is in charge of my life on a daily basis, and for that I am truly thankful. But I think I often live as though I am in charge of my life somehow. Hmmm....
And so as I begin these musings, stories, and recording snippets of our lives...I hope I will continue to remember who is REALLY in charge.