Praise God from whom all blessings flow...........

Sunday February 22nd 2009
The Day of Tristen's Dedication, and she is truly a Blessing sent by God!!
Portrait Done by Warrie McBrearty
If you would like a copy let me know and we'll talk!

Daniel Fast!

This is a blip about me... read if you'd like!

I'm 6 weeks into a study on the book of Daniel by Beth Moore. We where asked to give up something that we loved that was in the "world" that we could have but should be wise and do without. Just as Daniel chose to do with out the Kings Rich foods and wine in the 1st chapter of Daniel. This was not supposed to be a diet by any means. I choose to give up soda, I was addicted and it's something most of America could live with out and be much slimmer and healthier by it. This fast ended this Tuesday for me. When we went to the circus, I had a bottle of soda, 20oz of my favorite Dr Pepper. I'm learning that I should have continued to do with out. This is a learning curve for me and my eyes are opening more and more each day. I'm not perfect at all and fail daily. God has layed out a manual for us w/ examples to follow, what awesome things would come to be if all of those who claimed to follow him actually lived by the word of God. Wow! There would be True "Change" in this country. Though daily most of America kicks out the God that this country was founded on, and people wonder why things are falling apart around them! So I will continue to strive to follow the word of God, in hopes that I can make a difference. I've personally approched some subjects with friends and family members in the wrong way resulting in walls that may never be brought down. I have come to learn it's not for me to judge anyone, only God above can pass judgement, and it's my task to live the life he has called me to live and to be a witness to those around me. Well folks thanks for reading if you did. Now I'm off to bed!

The Greatest Show On Earth!

Stephan, Chloe and Molly at the Circus 2/19/09

Well I'm sure there are better shows to see. However tonight we went downtown and see the Circus! It was a nice show. Though we encountered something rather comical prior to getting into the show. PETA, protesters! Now a young lady with at least 20holes and pieces of metal in her face approaches Us and looks at Stephan and states "There are more wholesome things you could be doing with your children tonight" Now how in the world to I take you seriously when you have over a dozen holes in your body and dress far from wholesome. Anyways. We carried on and had a good time with the girls!

I love the way the elephants hold each others tails!

New Heat Pump!

So Monday February 16th 2009, our new heat pump system was installed. Can I just say it's incredible. Stephan's hard work under the house to re insulate in areas that needed it, and the added new heat pump. The house is very cozy and comfortable at a steady 70degrees. Though we could probably keep it lower we are enjoying it at this moment.

A Photo of our NEW thermostat! It's a comfortable 70degrees!

6 years ago on Valentine's day!

A bond began between 2 little girls that will last a life time. Cousin's and best buddies!!!
We celebrated Mikayla's 6th Birthday yesterday, and I reflected back to when she arrived in this world, and Chloe was there to welcome her! They are 7 weeks apart! :o)

Stephan, Chloe, Mikayla, Chris Rouze, Nana Pickens
February 2003
Chloe & Mikayla
February 14, 2009

Book recieved!

Well, my Managers of Their Homes book arrived, I've read, and have come to Step one! To Pray about and make my Mom's activity list, over the next week then review w/Stephan. My day needs to total about 24 hours or less.. I'll keep everyone updated. She does stress the importance of nap time for those under 7years old.. and well I restarted Molly's naps, and Chloe after the past few days could benefit from at least 1 hour of rest a day. This is only the beginning, and I'm excited about getting started!!!

MOTH method!

Homeschooling is going well. Though I'm struggling with just how to balance 3 kids, schooling 2, caring for baby, and house work. Some days it seems like there are not enough hours in the day, and if I only could split myself in two would I be able to get it all done. I've done the give me and the girls chores, it worked for a while, but my structure was not strong. In my fascination with the Duggar family, I checked out their web site, and found they use the MOTH method of scheduling their time, found at titus2.com. My thought was well if this works so well for a family of 20, then why not give it a try for my family of 5. So last week I ordered my book, and I'm now anxiously awaiting it's arrival to get started in hopes to be like the many before me that where able to send great testimonies on it's success in turning the whole house around.

No Hannah!

We decided we wouldn't let the girls watch Hannah Montana. Why not? Every other 4 and 6 year old is watching her! Well, I decided I'd watch the show on one of my late night feedings of Tristen over the summer, and was shocked buy the behaviors I witnessed that I'm not wanting my kids to behave in these manners. #1- Running after and kissing of boys. #2- Greed, I watched an episode where she was begging her daddy for a new phone even though the one she had was fine. #3. She's very sassy, and has a attitude. #4 I don't care for the way she speaks to her Dad. #5.. my list can go on and on so I'll stop. I've explained to Chloe and Molly that I would not like them to watch this show, and they understand it's because I don't like Hannah Montana's character qualities. So that's my little rant, and a little Hannah will hurt, So my girls are not allowed to view the Disney Channel after the noon hour if at all. Especially because of the chance to see Wizards of Waverly Place also, and the rest of the other bratty kids shows that come on in the evenings.

ZOO PASSES!!!

For Christmas my parents gave our family of 5 passes to the local zoo. Today was one of the random 60degree days in Va, warm, clear, and sunny. I decided to declare a field trip to take advantage of the passes and the weather. Especially since the next 2-3 days forecast calls for 30ish degree weather and rain/snow mix.

Our Trip exciting.. the kids had a blast.

Tristen watching Chloe and Molly feed the Giraffes

Chloe Feeding the Giraffe

Molly's turn!

The day was beautiful, and we are all looking forward to many more trips to the zoo thanks to Grandma and Grandpa Kruse.