A Few Christmas Pictures

Here are a few pictures from the last couple of days. This is Reaghan and Creighton with their stockings Christmas morning. The three little ones with their stockings. Every one was pretty happy. Even mommy and daddy because the kids slept until 7:00a.m. That was our Christmas Present.

This picture is of the children picking out their ornament on Christmas Eve. Since we moved to Iowa I started a new tradition of buying an ornament for everyone and they have to try and pick which one I bought for them. I try to find something that will remind them of the year and this year was especially difficult. The kids love this and look forward to it each year.

These are just some pictures of the kids sledding. We had a white Christmas so the kids have been spending some time outdoors sledding and using up their energy that can really drive momma mad.

Hope you all had a blessed Christmas and enjoyed some special times with family and friends.

A Christmas Blessing

I have not posted about this yet because I am still in a little bit of shock. This is a good kind of shock, and I just wanted to praise God before I shared what he has done in our lives.

Tuesday afternoon I got a phone call from my midwife and she needed to re-schedule my appointment. No big deal I thought babies come and appointment get moved all the time. Well while we were talking she told me that someone wanted to give one of her clients a Christmas present and pay for their birth. I heard her say that but had no clue what she was going to say next. She went on to tell me that she had told them the moms she had who were due and that this person had chosen us and wanted to pay for our birth. A complete stranger doesn't know us just wants to bless us by paying for our birth. I couldn't even talk I just cried. As I was crying and trying to gain composure she went on to tell me that the rest of my transportation fees would also be taken care of. At this point I felt so overwhelmed that I couldn't even talk. I told my midwife thank you but I was crying so hard I'm not sure she could understand me. But I knew she understood, because she too is a woman of God, and we both knew this was God using another person to do His work.

Part of what is so neat about this story is just about two weeks ago my hubby's car really started acting up. We know we have an oil leak so until we can get a new car we are putting oil in it every other week to keep us going. I got a little nervous through all of this because I knew we still had to pay for the birth, which was going to come out of taxes. Well guess what God knew exactly what we needed before we even asked. As I write this I still can't believe how miraculous this blessing was. No one knew anything about hubby's car and no one knew what we needed but the Lord.

When I shared this with my mom the first thing she said," Was how can someone believe there is no God." There is a God, the one true God who loves and cares for His people. We are so blessed to have a saviour who came and took our place so we could spend eternity with our Heavenly Father. I pray this Holiday Season we all remember that this birth was the birth that brought us our salvation, and what a precious and priceless gift that is. If you don't know Jesus I pray you will have that burning desire to know Him and love Him just as I do. I have never regretted the decision to have Him as Lord of my life.

Merry CHRISTmas Everyone.

Boys

I am still learning about how different boys are than girls. This little guy seems to challenge me everyday, not in a bad way just a boy way. He is a boy who is very active and I am still learning that I need to let him get his energy out. I have had many moms tell me that boys need to be outside so they can run and play. Well it is winter now and having 6 girls we don't spend much time out in the winter. I am learning from this guy rain or shine he likes his outside time. The other day we took him outside to play and three of the girls went with him. He ran and chased them and laughed and screamed and did what boys do best. Well that night at dinner we all were surprised because he was so quiet and well behaved, we thought could it possibly be the outside time. The next day we did the same thing and guess what we had an enjoyable child again. Now we have snow on the ground and I am just going to have to bite the bullet and bundle him up for his daily outside play. This is from a mother who is still learning about boys after 6 girls, and in a few months, we'll have another little guy. I am sure my life will change again, but thankful that the Lord has chosen me for this path.

Quick Update

I just looked at my ticker and it says 80 days. I can't believe it. Where has this pregnancy gone?
I was just talking to my Pastor's wife and I was sharing with her that I still don't have that excited feeling yet, and that daddy hasn't even felt the baby move yet. can you say denial? I guess when I am holding my baby in my arms then it will be real. This has been a wonderful pregnancy physically and I am so thankful for that. God is so good after a storm he really blesses us with a beautiful rainbow and I feel like he has done that with this pregnancy.

So, onto other news. My oldest daughter turned 14 yesterday. I don't know where the time has gone. It is really weird because I always get emotional on her birthday. I was up in my room crying yesterday for no reason but I am sure it was because of her birthday. She had a wonderful day and got her special gift which was a camera. We sent her on a scavenger hunt to find it and the final stop was the oven. She was so excited. last night when I went to bed I am sure she had taken over a hundred pictures. Emily we are so blessed to have been given the gift to be your parents, you truly are a blessing and bring us Joy everyday.

Here is our Emily in all her glory. Her cake was decorated blue and she saved her frosting till last for this reason.

Our Trip to South Dakota Part 2

O.k. this picture is suppossed to be at the bottom of the page but I messed up. So here is Reaghan with her daddy on the go carts. She was in heaven and had a blast.This picture didn't rotate. Sorry. These are pictures from our trip to South dakota. Only a month later. After we spent the morning at the cemetary visiting Elias we took the kids to Sioux Falls to lunch and then off to miniature golf. This is Kharis learning how to hold the golf club. Didn't last very long she wanted to de it her way and that's what we let her do. As soon as Levi got his club it became a gun. This kid is 150% BOY. Even though he lives in a house with 6 big sisters.

They had this wonderful game that the kids and daddy fell in love eith. It was called human fooseball. The kids played for well over an hour and laughed the whole time. We recruited some extra team mates so we could have a real game. Hubby thinks someone st our church needs to make one of these for fellowship Sundays. They had a blast.

Maclae was goalie and did an awesome job.

Dad surprised the girls and took them on the go carts. Living on a budget the miniature golf was pretty pricy so I figured there was no way to do go carts, but dad surprised them by using his lunch money for the week. What a great Dad. They all had a blast with this extra treat. Thanks Daddy for making it such a special day for all of us. None of m y pictures turned out of Maclae driving, but this one of her waiting to start the RACE.

Here is Emily rounding a corner she had a blast and could have done this all day long.

We all had a wonderful time and really needed to laugh and play as a family after such a long year. We had a such a great day wish everyday could be like this one.

100 Days

I can't believe it I have 100 days left. It seems like a lot to some people but this is a day I have been looking forward to. As each day ticks by the reality is beginning to sink in that we are going to have a baby. This time a year ago I remember being so truly in the midst of the grief. I think it was overtaking me, but at the time I didn't see it. I really thought I would never hold a little one in my arms again. I still have a hard time feeling like this is real, but it is.

A Better Day

Well I can say that the blues have left me. I am feeling much better and am getting excited about the holidays which will be here before we know it. I think part of my problem last week was that we took the week off from school to get some big chores done, so our schedule went out the door. I am just a momma who likes to have some type of order to her life. By Thursday night my husband had said, "I think you need to do school with the kids because they are out of control." This was the truth, they were CRAZY and WILD.
Today we are back to doing school and life feels normal again. Right now the kitchen is clean, Bible time is over, kids are in their jammies, the house is settling down and becoming quiet and mommy feels great. I love this time of the evening when the kids are coloring, reading, or playing something quiet it brings true Joy to my heart. I also love the noisy times too but the quiet evenings are my favorite. I am looking forward to a great week, hope you all in blog land also have a great week.

Feeling Kind of Blue

The past few days have been really strange lately. I am feeling a little down emotionally for some reason. I can't really put my finger on what is triggering this but I am praying it goes aways soon. I feel like all I want to do is cry. I think part of it might be that a lot of women at church have had their babies and I feel like my day is never going to come. I am even having a hard time believing that everything is o.k. with this pregnancy. I have been told everything looks great but I just can't wrap my heart around this baby. I don't know why. I feel him kicking all the time but still have doubts about having a healthy baby. I know that sounds crazy but that is really how I feel.

It also doesn't help that I have been having these weird dreams at night. One dream was that my doctor had to cut me open like a c-section and drain some fluid while I was still pregnant. This dream was really weird because after he did this he told me I would have to have a c-section to have this baby. Then last night I had this dream that my sister was pregnant. She was waiting to have a c-section and she kept telling me that it hurt really bad. I told her to stay still and I would get a nurse. When we got the back the baby was crowning and within 1 push the baby was born but was not breathing. No one did anything. All the doctors just stood there and said, "They don't worry about it until it has been 5 minutes." Bizarre, how bizarre.

Family Picture

This summer when we went to California we had family pictures done. I think we have finally picked one to blow up and send to grandparents. Levi has a goofy look on his face and Kharis is acting silly but that is one of the reasons why we liked this one. The kids were being kids and I think those are some of the best photos. I have a few more and once we get thme all cleaned up I will post those also. Just wanted to share.

A Good day

Today was a wonderful day. I went to a dear friend's house and held her new baby boy in my arms for hours. It felt so good. I haven't held a baby boy since I lost Elias. This was the first one and it was absolutely wonderful. He was so tiny and perfect and he just let me hold him and look at him.

Makes me very excited for my baby to arrive. I still have a long ways to go but each day is one day closer. My ticker is almost to day 100. Thank you Lord for this special day.

Baby Elias

We spent the weekend in Souht Dakota to celebrate Elias' 1st Heavenly Birthday. Two of the girls made crosses for him so they wanted to put them on the headstone. A picture of all the children. It was a little cloudy and cold but not unbearable.

Mommy and Daddy with baby Elias.

Getting ready to release the balloons. This was the kids favorite part. They were so excited running all over with their ballon. Mommy got a little upset about this and daddy had to remind me that we were here to celebrate. Of course daddy was right.
After we released all of the balloons. We had a great weekend and I will post more pictures of the weekend and tell you all about our little adventure with Levi. For now I just wanted to focus on remembering Elias. We miss you and can't wait to see you in Heaven someday.

It's Been Almost A Year

I don't know where this past year has gone. On October 23rd it will have been a year since I gave birth to our little Elias who had already gone home to be with Jesus. The first 6 months after the loss are a total blur to me. I missed out on so much because I was struggling with the loss. I know we all grieve differently but I just couldn't get out of that miry pit. Until the day my 13 year old daughter said, " She didn't even think I cared about anything but losing the baby and having another one." Boy did that hurt. She was right, I had made everyone else in the house feel like they meant nothing to me. It was a wake up call to be thankful for all I had and that I was a very blessed momma.
Almost a year later and I have really had a change of heart about my children. They are all gifts and they are truly not mine. They are the Lord's and only on loan to me until he calls them home. During the time I have them I need to love them and teach them to love the Lord. I am still so very sad that I lost Elias but at times I am so very thankful because it has given me a different outlook on life. I understand how precious life is and to really cherish the time you are given with loved ones.
This weekend we will go to South Dakota to celebrate our little boys first year in Heaven. I actually look forward to this, there will be tears but I also know that I will see him someday and all my tears and pain will be no more.

Prayers Needed

I am writing this post because I know a lot of you out there are prayer warriors. Our house has experienced a major sickness this fall. It began the end of August with our 4 year old and has affected almost everyone. I thought I would get away without getting this but I began showing symptoms 3 weeks ago. I am exhausted and am in bed many days. Baby is fine but this particular sickness can sometimes take 3-4 months to get rid of. Right now we are all working on building our immune system back up. I need to get rid of this so I can rest for baby. My midwife says it should be gone before baby comes but I will still be pretty wiped out she thinks physically. Prayer is needed for quick recovery and that I would be able to get the proper nutrition while I am sick. I am struggling with not wanting to eat I just am not hungry.
Thank you all.

Half Way

I can't believe I am to the halfway point in this pregnancy. I remember when I first found out I was pregnant I couldn't wait until the day I could say I was 20 weeks. Well I can say that now. I was at the doctors to day and he said ,"You're 20 weeks and 2 days." That was wonderful to hear. Now my next goal is third trimester.

October

I can't believe it is October already, where has the year gone. I have always loved this time of year as the days get shorter, the nights get colder, and all the beautiful colors as the leaves begin to change. I am trying to remember this, because October seems to also hold a place in my heart that often makes me very sad.
October 31st 2007 I had my first miscarriage. This was heartbreaking for me as I was very naive about pregnancy. I always thought you found out you were pregnant and 9 months later you held your new little bundle. You see I had 6 children and had never experienced any complications, so that night when I woke up and found blood I truly became a different person. My eyes were opened to the pain that many women go through, a pain so great you wonder if you will survive. I survived and Sept,13th 2008 I gave birth to our first son. What a blessing he is.
October 21st 2009 was another one of those bring you to your knees moments. I was again pregnant but this time I was already in my second trimester and had heard the babies heartbeat, so of course everything would be fine. I was wrong, very wrong. I was making breakfast for the children when I felt something was not right. I went to the bathroom and sure enough there was blood. What would I do? Could I do this again? I am already showing how will I get through this. I knew I needed to call the doctor and get in immediately, so that is what I did. Once in that ultrasound room, no words were spoken we just waited. As soon as the screen went on I saw the baby but no movement. I knew our baby was gone. I cried and cried and truly felt like I was going to die. The next week was and still is a blur. We had our baby boy on Octber 23rd 2009 and buried him on Octber 28th 2009. All I could think was I will never get through this.
I have gotten through but it has not been easy. I know I will never be that same which I think is a good thing. I understand know how precious life is and to not take it for granted. I do have to admit that I am a little nervous about it being October. I am not superstitious but I am pregnant again and I just want to get through this month. I know the month has nothing to do with our previous losses it is just hard for me right now as I grieve the loss of Elias and carry this new life. As I type this post my little guy is letting me know he is o.k. he just started kicking me, I think I should go so I can feed me and the little one.
Have a great week and a blessed October.

A Child's Heart

It seems like the last week and a half the children have really been struggling with getting chores done. They think as soon as school is finished it is time to play. So I have felt like all have done lately is correct and discipline. Attitudes have been very nasty towards each other and I have been feeling very defeated. I know that kids will be kids but the training and discipline has to continue or they will have a rough time when they grow up. Today seemed especially frustrating with three of the girls. The 10 year old, 8 year old, and 6 year old were not listening at all. I told them that they had to do school and then they would have extra chores the rest of the day. I have kept them very busy.

My 8 year old has a very, very free spirit. Does everything she can to stay out of work and thinks that life should only be about having fun. Lately I have been doing a Bible study with her and the 10 year old about Pride. we have been studying what God thinks about Pride and what he thinks about Humility. It has been very eye opening to both of them and I can see their little hearts wanting to do what is pleasing to God, but that Pride just takes over.

So today I had to run to the store real quick and pick up a few groceries. While I was gone I told the older two girls they had to do their chores and then they could go back to working on their school. The oldest had chores from yesterday and today to do. When I got home from the store 8 year old had the mop out and was getting ready to mop the shoe room. I was a little shocked to say the least. I told the oldest these were her chores and she needed to do them, but I was pleasantly surprised to hear that the 8 year old offered to help her. She told her sister she had learned in Bible study that if someone needs help you need to think of others and help them. I can't believe she actually heard what I have been teaching. The Holy Spirit grabbed onto that little heart of hers and she obeyed the prompting to be a servant to her sister. Thank you Lord for this treat of seeing the fruit in my child's life.

Boys

Having a little boy in the house has really changed the dynamics in our home. I really didn't know what it would be like raising a boy with 6 big sisters. I wondered at times if he would be a little feminine or just different. Well I was wrong about that. Levi is 150% boy. He is non stop, loves to be dirty, pretends he is a soldier, likes to play guns, LOVES to be dirty, loves to climb and wrestle, and is always making noises. My husband tells me quiet frequently that Levi is more of a boy than he ever was. I am learning that even when we can't see things through our eyes the Lord always knows best. I really was concerned for a little boy in a houseful of girls but the Lord has taken care of all the details.

I am learning everyday just how different boys and girls really are. Just yesterday we found Levi on top of our 15 passenger van. He was outside playing with his big sisters when one of them came running in to tell us that Levi was on top of the van. We know for sure the girls helped him somehow but I know the girls at 2 years old would never have done that because they would have been too scared. Then last night right before dinner we found him covered front to back in Mentholatum, and was just happy as a kid in a candy store. He couldn't figure out why we were so upset when mommy puts that on him at night before he goes to bed. He looked at us like this is what mommy does.

Wow I can only imagine the dynamics in our home in a couple of years. Never would have thought I would ever have a son and now another one on the way.

6 to 2

This last weekend was pretty interesting. There were some scary situations with the pregnancy but everything turned out to be just fine. Praise the Lord. Today when I was at the doctor making sure things were o.k. with baby I had the opportunity to peak. I really didn't want to at first but I decided it wouldn't hurt to just look this one time. So that is what I did.

I'm sure you would like to know so I will tell you. The answer is in the title. We are all very excited at this new score.

16 weeks 1 Day

Yesterday I had my monthly doctor's appt. I wasn't really nervous because I think I have been feeling the baby move lately. Once the doctor came in and listened to the babies heartbeat I thought I would be relieved but the weird thing is I'm not. I just can't get past this mental block I have of believing that things are o.k. I want to get excited about being pregnant and this new life but i just can't and I don't know why I am allowing myself to stay here. I actually felt a little depressed after the appt. and don't know why. I am hoping that once I start feeling the baby move these feelings I am having will pass.I haven't even gotten the maternity clothes out yet I just am wearing all of my clothes that have elastic. Praying for the Lord to give me peace through this.

Look Who's Two

I can't believe it but our little man is two. It is amazing to me how the dynamics in our house have changed over these past two years. I love my girls but I also love my little boy. Thankful that the Lord has blessed me with this little guy. Excited to see the plans the Lord has for him as he grows.

First Days Of School

We have almost made it through our first full week of school. It started out great the first few days and then we had some bumps in the road. I always forget how time consuming schooling the children is and I sometimes lose focus. I have to remind myself that God called our family to this way of life so he will be the one who guides us through it.
So today is Friday and it is so tempting to tell the children we are taking the day off, but I am not going to do that. We are going tot preserver and get through the day. I am going to push the tired eyes open and give thanks for being blessed to have my children at home with me. We are going to finish our first week of school and look forward to next week.
Thank you Lord for blessing me with this opportunity to teach my children morning, noon, and night. Help me to keep my eyes focused on you and help me to remember to teach them to Love you.

We Have Visitors

My parents came in to town on Sunday afternoon. My sister and her family were with them. They are moving to North Carolina so it was nice to get to spend and evening with all of us together. Nana and Papa stayed here with my Nephew Blane who is 18. They will be here for about a month, so it will be nice for the kids to get to spend that time with their grandparents. My parents always come and stay for an extended period which has helped the children grow very close to them. We start school on Monday which will be interesting since we have always been in the middle of school when my parents are visiting. I will have to be really strict with the children to keep them on schedule. The kids like to sneak over to the guest house to visit Nana and Papa. We are blessed to have family who enjoy and our children.

The Days Are Going So Slow

I feel like time is standing still. I will be 14 weeks on Monday and I am so ready to be past this month. I just want my 16Th week to come and go, but it seems like it is never going to get here. I feel like the pregnancy has gone pretty well so far except the past few weeks have really lingered. I have really had to fight that fear that tries to creep up inside of me. I will walk past the mirror and look at myself and think, uh-oh I don't look as big as I did yesterday, or I will feel something not normal and worry that something is going wrong. This has definitely been a different pregnancy. I am happy for each day I get through but I am really looking forward to hitting some of my own personal mile stones.

An Up and Down Day

Lately I have been on an emotional roller coaster. I will have a day where I will start to get a little excited and start dreaming about holding this little one, and then poof that fear creeps in. The Devil is really trying hard to steal my Joy and I am fighting just as hard to not let him win.

Then today I had my first appointment with my midwife and you won't believe what happened. We couldn't find the heartbeat. I know I am only 13 weeks but I have heard my other babies by now so I tried to stay as calm as possible. I felt exactly I did that day in October last year. I just kept telling myself I know everything is o.k. Well I called the doctor who I have been seeing and as soon as I told the receptionist that we couldn't find the heartbeat she told me to come in immediately. Which of course I did. I was fine on the drive over to the doctors, fine in the waiting room, but as soon as I walked into the ultrasound room I lost it. Then my doctor came in and said, "o.k. let's see what's going on." I looked at him and just started crying and told him I didn't think I wanted to know. He was so kind and understanding, standing in front of the screen so I couldn't see, because I was a wreck at this point. Within a few seconds he had moved and there was our little baby and I could see their feet moving around. It was such a great feeling. He assured me this is common to not find the heartbeat with the Doppler this early. Well for me it isn't common and the only time we have never heard a heartbeat was with Elias. So to say the least I was a little excited to see our little bean jumping all around.

Friday Mornings

We started something new a few Fridays ago and the kids love it. My 4 year old loves pancakes and I feel like I never make them. So a couple of Fridays ago I asked my oldest daughter if she wanted to learn how to make the homemade wheat pancakes. She was hesitant at first but once I told her how you do it she got started. I didn't even help her and they turned out magnificent. Since then we have been doing this every Friday and they kids love it. Right now she is getting ready to put them on the griddle and all the kids are waiting patiently for their yummy pancakes. Sometimes I just can't believe how blessed I am to have these children who really do love to do things to make their siblings happy. My days in the kitchen seem to be getting shorter and shorter.

12 weeks 2 days

I went to the doctor today to see our little bambino and make sure that things were still going well. Everything looks great. Baby is growing and mommy couldn't be happier. I talked to a friend after the appointment and she said I sounded much better than normal. Maybe that was a bit of excitement that she heard. I got lots of pictures of baby and still can't believe that I am growing another life inside of me. I have it my head I am just ready for it to hit my heart. For now I feel great and have a huge grin and I am praying that I will start to feel some excitement.

Just Rambling

I finally did it. Did what you ask? I got this year's curriculum ordered. I know it shouldn't be such an ordeal but every year I dread it. Once I get it done I am so relieved and ready to start the new year. This year I will officially be schooling 5 children, 1st through 8th grade. Amazing how the more children I school the easier it gets. Next year I will officially have a child in high school. Where has time gone I will never forget her first year using Bob Jones and wondering what have I gotten myself into. Now I couldn't think of doing it any other way. Kind of exciting to think that my children have been with me since day one and I have enjoyed it. Kind of funny in today's society to hear a parent say they love having their children under their feet all day everyday. The Lord really can do change the heart of his people. When I was pregnant with my 3rd child I wanted to get a nanny and go back to school full time. Now look at me pregnant with number 8, homeschooling 5 children and open to the Lord blessing us as he sees fit. Thank you Lord for opening my eyes to your wonderful gifts. Have a great school year everyone.

A Long Week

This week seems to have been extremely busy during the first half and has left me paying for it. I think I overdid it this week and I am paying for it today. I was beginning to really feel better and then today the morning sickness hit and has had me knocked out all day. Just can't get comfortable and my tummy just wants to be stubborn. I am going to bed early and praying for a good weekend. Hope all of you have a great weekend.

Family Pictures

Here are some pictures of us at the beach trying to take family pictures. Interesting when there are nine of us. Here is a picture of Daddy and the boy having fun. The boy was determined to be difficult.

This is one of our posed family pictures. And of course children were not cooperating. As we've had more children I have gotten to where I realize there will be no perfect picture.

This is my favorite. All the ladies in his life kissing his head. Of course there was no room for the main one(me.)

What a Year

July 15th was a special day for hubby and I only we were both very sick in bed with the stomach flu. July 15th 1995 we made a commitment in front of family and friends and the Lord to love each other through sickness and health, through good and bad times, etc. Well 15 years ago I would have never guessed I would be where I am today. A houseful of children, a mind full of memories, and excited to see where we will be in the next 15 years. We have been through many different trials these last 15 years but nothing like this last year.

As I was lying on the couch trying to feel like a normal person, my husband slipped me a little card. It was beautiful. He told me he knew it had been a long year and that our tragedy was something no one should ever have to go through. I just cried and cried thinking we have come so far. He told me he loved me and always would.I thought to myself he stood by me when I was a total wreck, he loved me when I didn't want to be loved, he let me throw a fit when I needed to, he stood up to his vows he loved me when I was sick. Not physically sick but emotionally sick. How many men do that? He knew I was going to have to get through this in my time and he was patient, much more patient than I would have ever been. He was my rock and I was the raging storm, but he never moved. Yes there were some really bad days where I thought we are not going to make it, but he remained steadfast even as I tried to push him further and further away. Marc thank you for loving me during this journey of life. I know it wasn't easy.

Now we will walk through this next journey together a little more confident. I know as a couple we will get through it I just hope I don't lose my mind. We are expecting a baby the end of February. I feel like things are going to be fine but there are many times when I am not. I would be kidding myself if I said, I was not terrified. Lately all I can think about is what we went through last time. I am now about 10 and a half weeks along and I have been fine but I keep thinking the further I get the harder it will be if I lose this baby. How do you not think those thoughts? We are human. I feel like I can't even get excited yet because something might happen. Then I think to myself I am not in control so why worry about this. It has been a lot harder than I ever thought it would be. I dreamed of getting pregnant and being able to tell everyone, now I just want to hide and keep it a secret. I think if it is secret nothing will happen. I know, sounds crazy, but the things that go through your head after a loss sometimes make no sense.

My point is I have decided to break out of my shell and start sharing the news. Please pray with our family as we walk this road of anxiously awaiting the arrival of a healthy baby.The Lord knows I need a lot of prayers right now. I am specifically asking for prayers for mommy to become a little more excited about this new life. I keep very quiet about it and try to change the subject when daddy and kids talk about the baby. I want to feel that excitement just like they do. Thanks to all of you out there who read this and have prayed for us before. You have blessed us more than you will know.

A Busy Day

Yesterday was a very full day for us and I was a little concerned as to whether or not I would get everything done. A lady from our church had brought a lady in to speak about home remedies and I really wanted to go. She was going to talk a lot about using herbs and making your own tinctures. This seminar started at 9:00 and Ia was taking all of the children, because the church was also having a 5-day club. Perfect timing the kids could have fun and so could mom. I knew I would have to plan ahead so everything would be taken care of. Monday night my oldest daughter made dinner ahead of time for the next night. She made the lunch and got it ready to go so we wouldn't have to eat out.

Then yesterday I woke up to a wonderful surprise. The kids let me sleep until 7:00. They had gotten the little ones up, dressed them, and fixed their hair. As I was getting ready they made sure everyone got fed even mommy. Then it was time to go and I had forgotten to check to make sure we had everything. I shouldn't have been surprised. They took care of packing all the food, water, diapers, and extra food. I was amazed and proud of how my daughters took charge and got a family ready to be away from home for a whole day. Plus we had a great dinner ready fro us when we got home. Thanks girl for all you do, you both will be great wives's and mommy's some day.

The Things Kids Say

This past week my older girls have been measuring their hair to see if it is long enough for Locks of Love. Some of them are ready and some of them are very close. They seem to be obsessed with this right now and every time I turn around some one has a ruler in their hands.

Last night daddy was sitting on the couch and we were all just kind of talking about the day, and what we should do this weekend, just hanging out with dad. As we were sitting there our four year old gets out the ruler and takes it over to measure her daddy's hair (he has no hair). She then proceeds to climb up into his lap and this is what she says, "Daddy your hair is zero inches, so you have no hair." It was priceless. She was so serious but it was so funny. Love the things little kids say.

No Pool Yet

Summer is in full swing here in our neck of the woods. So what does that mean for our family? Well usually it means lots and lots of time at the pool.
Not this summer. So far we have gone once and on that day we stayed for only an hour. We had to leave early because my oldest had pulled something in her back and she could hardly walk.
The next week we were going to make up for it but that didn't happen.
Then this last week we thought for sure we would get some pool time in. Nope everyone got the flu. I mean everyone , even mommy and daddy.
So today is Monday and I thought hey we can go to the pool. That would be a great afternoon treat. Well guess what? We are not going to the pool. Levi decided to grab the hot skillet that his sister was holding and has second degree burns on all four fingers. The blisters cover the whole length of the fingers and part of his thumb. So I guess we won't be going this week either.
Praying next week we can get to the pool and enjoy some time relaxing, before summer slips away.

Our view

This is what we saw daily. Tanks. Levi loved every minute of it. I think he thought it was a parade or something. They went right down the road that sat in front of our campsite, so the little man had front row service. Daddy keeps saying he is going to be a Marine. We will see. Thought this was a cute picture. Retired Marine and Marine in Training.

Tuckered Out

A friend of mine had posted a picture of her child sleeping in the car on a recent road trip. I thought it was very cute. Then I remembered I had snapped a picture of sleeping children while on our trip. These two were tuckered out after only 5 days we still had 11 to go.

Our Trip Part 2

Our next stop on our trip was Sunny California. We camped on the beach for 6 nights. The first night I laid in bed and listened to the waves crash on the beach, a sound I haven't heard in a very long time. The first morning we were there the kids were up bright and early and they were in the water by 7:30 a.m. We all had a great time.

The boys favorite thing to do was play in the sand with his new Tonka Trucks.

Our trip Part 1

The first leg of our trip was to see Gram and Grandpa in Phoenix. They took us to our favorite Mexican restaurant. Levi loved the salsa so much he drank it. Definitely a Jensen. Here is little Kharis going for a ride in Grandpa Darrell's Corvette. She was so excited she could hardly wait.

This is Gram and Grandpa's house and the kids were sitting just taking a break from the Arizona heat.

The three little girls being silly at Gram's house.

Our favorite place to be when we go to Phoenix. Caramba's the best. We had a great time in Phoenix and can't wait until we go visit again. (Which I am sure will be a ways down the road)

We Are Home

It is great to be home. We had a wonderful and fun filled two week vacation. We spent 6 days at the beach in California and the kids loved every minute of it. Then we headed to the Grand Canyon, I always forget how Grand it is. Our last leg of the journey took us through the beautiful mountains of Colorado. We have been home for a day now and we are all resting from our wonderful vacation. I will post pictures soon.

Were Off

The benefits of having many children when getting ready for a two week trip to California.

It is 3:00p.m. the day before we head out on vacation. The van is loaded, the food is cooked and packed, the kids shoes are waiting by the door to slip on, the laundry is folded and put away, and the house is clean and ready for our return. This is not a joke.

I am blessed beyond measure with children who love(Well maybe like) to help. This is our first long trip in two years and I can't believe how well we did getting ready for this venture. I think I am getting the hang of having a large family. O.k. Lord I think I can handle a few more.

Well we are off for a much needed break. It has been a long hard year for our family and we are looking forward to some good quality family time. Have a great two weeks and I will be back with lots of pictures.

Weigh In Day

Well it is my last weigh in before vacation. I was a little concerned because I feel like I haven't been doing very well with keeping track of what I am eating. So here are the results.

Last week 135.8

This week 134.6

I lost 1.2 pounds. My goal was to be 130 when we went to California but I didn't make it. I am o.k. with the loss that I have made because I can see that this has become a lifestyle and not a diet. I have not been under 135 since I got pregnant with my 4th child who is going to be 8 in July.

Birthday Cake

Here is little Kharis' birthday cake. Our oldest daughter has taken the job over of making the cakes in the family. She does a wonderful job.

Elias

We spent Saturday visiting our little boy Elias. What a beautiful day it was.

If you click on the picture it will enlarge.

Weigh In day

My weight is coming off slower and slower. I didn't even weigh in last week because I was really bad. I was better this week but not real strict. I did begin exercising again.

I weighed in this morning and saw a loss. Not a very big loss but a loss is a loss.

Two weeks ago 136.8

Today 135.8

Well a pound is a pound. I just got my 10 pound star from weight watchers. 5.8 pounds to got to hit my goal weight.

Slow and steady wins the race. I have now officially been doing WW for 10 weeks and have lost 10 pounds.

Prayer

I feel like yesterday was a huge milestone for me and my mom. Since I lost the baby in October I have been very careful what to say and what not to say to my mom. I have kept my guard up just because I didn't want her to worry about me. I haven't shared with her how badly i want another child because I know she is worried and scared for us. We as parents never want to see our children hurt even when they are grown. Well yesterday her and I were talking and I felt like it was the right time for me to do some sharing with her. I told her that Marc and I were ready and we felt like the children were also ready. So I told her that we had begun praying for a healthy pregnancy to go full term with a healthy child. I know she prays alot and I mean alot, so I asked her to put us on her list. I know it doesn't seem like a big deal to some but it was a turning point in my relationship with my mom. I felt like i could share my dreams with her again and i haven't felt that for awhile. So when we hung up the phone she said, "I love you and I will pray for you tonight." I love it because I know this will be bathed in prayer not only by us but also by my mom. Thanks mom for keeping the door open.

A Wonderful Book

I picked up this book that I was going to read while on vacation in a couple of weeks, but I kind of started reading it. Well I didn't start I started and finished it in less than a week. It is one of those books that you can't put down. The book is"I will carry You," written by Angie Smith. It is fabulous and a great read for everyone. Angie found out when she was 18 weeks along that her baby had many health issues that would cause her to die in the womb or shortly after being born. I am sure many of you had followed her story. I had heard about her but I was pregnant and wanted to stay as far away from stories like this. I guess I thought if I got to close it might happen to my baby. How naive we are.

After losing Elias I have found many people linking to her blog so I decided to get caught up and read her story of Audrey Caroline who she decided to carry even with an outcome that was not promising. What a brave and courageous woman.

Yesterday I was reading her book and I read something that literally took my breath away. It was a prayer and I would like to share it with you.
This is what she wrote on page 153 of her book the page I will have marked for a long, long time.

Lord Jesus, I am asking for Your presence to fill the room of the person holding this book. I ask that You remind him or her that Your power is made perfect in weakness and that the battle raging against us is no match for You. In Your powerful name, I command Satan to leave this home.Leave this marriage alone. Stop whispering lies about the circumstances of death and the belief that we could have done anything differently. Silence the lies the enemy has thrown to us. You have no right here, Satan, and we rebuke you in the name of the Savior. Jesus, bind his hands so that he will no longer wreak havoc in the lives of these precious parents. We bring them to you and lay them on Your altar, eagerly awaiting the day when You will redeem what we have lost. Amen.

This prayer spoke volume to me. I immediately put my hand over my mouth and sobbed like a baby. This is exactly how I have been feeling. I know in my heart this is an attack from the devil but I don't think I was strong enough to even acknowledge it. He has come into our house many times through these last 7 months and has created lots and lots of havoc in every area. I felt like the blinders were removed yesterday. I will be saying this prayer fervently as to keep the enemy away.

First Date

My Little Reaghan turned 10 last month and went on her first date. You probably are thinking to yourself isn't she a little young. She is a little young but when the man taking her out is her Father I think she will be well taken care of. Daddy started this tradition with our oldest daughter. The girls look forward to this day with great anticipation. Here Daddy and Reaghan are getting ready to go out for the night. He took her to a movie, the zoo and then out to dinner. Pretty special first date if you ask me. I still can't believe she is 10!

The Little King

This is what happens when you are the only boy who lives in a house with 6 big sisters. You get your way. The face is proof. He knows he has us all wrapped around his little finger. He decided one morning while the girls were picking up their room that he wanted to listen to big sissy Emily's I-Pod. As you can see here, there was no objection. Just wait Levi until you hit the real world some day. You will not always be the center of attention. For now, we will allow this because it is oh so fun, to spoil our one and only little man.

Weigh In Day

I wasn't going to weigh in today. I feel really good and my clothes are fitting nice again and overall I am content with my weight loss. I didn't want to get to the point where this was a diet and not a lifestyle change. So this past week I didn't log into weight watchers once and I just did what I have been doing these past 2 months. Hubby and I went out to dinner and splurged. We shared an appetizer of hot wings, and for dinner split a sandwich and salad. After dinner I splurged and had two pieces of chocolate covered honeycomb. Yummy. This weekend we had a graduation and I chose to skip desert since I had splurged the night before. It's all about choices and it isn't that bad to say no more than yes. It is now my weigh in day and this week has been one of my best weeks, I didn't feel like I was missing out on anything and I am going to continue on with this just at a more relaxed pace.
So here are my results.
Last week 137.4
This week 136.6
Loss .8 lbs.
I can't believe I lost. 9.2 total. My goal was to lose 15.8 lbs. I am over half way there. I think I might actually achieve this goal.

Ups and Downs

I have been all over the place lately with my emotions. I try not to use this blog as a place to complain, but I have met so many wonderful women who have been through what I am going through and sometimes it helps me to let my true self out.
This week has truly been a roller coaster and I am not even sure why. One day I am happy and content with my life and the next day, I am crying my heart out to God and asking, "Why, why Lord have I been chosen to walk this path in life?"
Just this morning I told my husband I wish God would let us look through a crystal ball. Wouldn't that be just wonderful. We could see our journey before we even start, but then I began to rethink this. If I could have seen down the road would I have turned and found a different path? Would I have learned to trust God even when it hurts so bad you can't hardly breathe? Would I have the faith I have now? Many times I just want to fast forward through this time in my life but then I remember I have never been so close and so intimate with God. I have learned through this that I can tell Him everything. I have yelled , cried, laughed, been quiet, rejoiced, and sought wisdom from my heavenly Father. I am so grateful that He has been beside me the whole time. The pain is still new at times but it is getting less and less.
I remind myself almost daily that "Those who plant tears will reap a Harvest of JOY!!!

The Ten Commandments

This is our cute little Kharis. As of right now she is the baby of the girls. She is full of life, and oh so sweet.
The other night while we were doing family devotions she decided to tell us that obeying your mom and dad was one of the ten commandments. We told her, "Yes, that is correct do you know any more of the Ten Commandments?" After a very long pause and a very quiet voice she said,"When your riding in the car sit still."
Every one started laughing and we couldn't stop. The children listen to a song that talks about obeying your mom and dad. One of the verses talks about when your riding in the car you need to sit still. So I guess she figured since the song talked about obeying mom and dad(which is one of the commandments) everything else in the song was a commandment also. So I guess we need to work on teaching her the Lord's Ten Commandments.

Weigh In

I forgot to post my weigh in yesterday so I will post today.

Not very good but I will still share.

Last week 137.4

This week 137.4

I stayed the same exact weight.

Like my daughter Emily said," Well mom that's better than gaining weight." So I will take that encouragement and keep on.

Wordless Wednseday

Weigh In day

It's Tuesday, which means weigh in day. Not sure if I really like Tuesdays anymore. These last 7 lbs seems to be coming off extremely slow.
Last week 138.8
This week 137.4
Total loss 1.4 lbs this week. Next week I hope to do the same or better. Would love to be 130 by the time we go on vacation the middle of June.

Firsts

Wow every where I turn I learn of another mommy who is going to be blessed with a new little one to love. The first few months after we lost Elias I would hear of women being pregnant and it would make me just want to crawl into a hole and die. Now it gives me that little bit of excitement as I remember all of my pregnancies. The first time you see the pink line and really can't believe you have a little one growing inside of you. The first time you hear the heartbeat, the first time you feel the little flutters, then the kicks. The first time you feel that contraction that lets you now you are truly in labor. All those firsts with each pregnancy are so exciting. And then that first time you lay eyes on your beautiful child, something you will never forget.

So even though I am not pregnant I will remember all of my firsts just like all these mommies are doing with their pregnancies. And just someday I will be having all those firsts with a new little bundle of my own.

But for now I will enjoy the memories and make new ones with my 7 miracles that the Lord has blessed us with here on earth.

Weight Gain

O.k. so today is weigh in day and I wasn't even going to weigh in, because this week I did terrible. Then I figured I can't just blog about my wight loss I need to be honest and share everything. The good weeks and the bad weeks. So here is my bad week.
Last week 137.8
This week 138.8
OOPS! I put on a pound. I will work harder this week and I hope to be back down next week.

It is QUIET

Right now it is extremely QUIET in my house.

The older children are at piano with Dad. The three younger ones are upstairs taking naps because they don't feel well. So the house is nice and quiet. Now I sit here and wonder what should I do. Nothing I think I will spend some time talking with the Lord.

The Lord knows Best

About a week ago I asked everyone to pray about a job promotion for hubby. We had both said we Love you Lord either way promotion or no promotion. At this same time we were praying that maybe this would be the month that I would find out I was expecting again. So again we prayed and said we Love you Lord baby or no baby.

So at the end of the week we found out that there would be no promotion and also no baby this month. We went out to dinner and talked and laughed and both said "We love you Lord!" I am learning through this process of trusting God that it sure is easy to trust Him when everything goes our way, but do we still trust Him when things go His way. Yes we do but sometimes there is a little heartache, and He knows how we feel. I am just thankful that the God I serve is a big God who loves me and does know what is best for us. Through this past week of No's He did surprise us with a huge blessing.

Someone decided to bless us by paying off the rest of our hospital bill. Praise the Lord he takes care of everything. Thankful that the Lord doesn't always give us everything we ask for. I have grown closer to God these past 6 months than I think in my whole life.
Thanks Lord for holding me up and being my Father , I couldn't have done this without you.

Reaghan is 10!!!!

Where have these last ten years gone? I can't believe my little Reaghan Mae is 10. I will never forget the day I found out I was pregnant with her. I was shocked to say the least but what a beautiful blessing she has been to our family. So thankful the Lord gives us gifts when we least expect them because I think those are sometimes the best.
Happy birthday Reaghan. Have a very blessed 10th year. I love you Mommy.