The Nelsons: I do, take two

Caution

2012-02-13T12:22:00.001-08:00

lots of pictures ;)

last weekend started off so nicely. girls night at happy buddha. it was heaven!!!

calli went up to papa and tt's for the weekend, to see the play sleeping beauty. a quick smoothie for the drive up.

next up grandmas 65th "i love judy" birthday party! doesn't she look great! ;)

one of the games was reenacting the candy scene. it was so funny.

sunday we went to church then drove up to toms farms to pick up calli. we enjoyed a burger by the pond. it was a beautiful day.

calli has reached her first goal!!! she we sold 200 boxes in 2 weeks. not including booth sales. our first booth was on super bowl sunday. we sold out selling 218 boxes in 1.5 hours. it was crazy to say the least.

let do this! ;)

then we went to a super bowl party at the greens. a feats of food. friends and the kids were so tired at the end. easy bed time. yes!

night time jumping...

callis verse of the week and i think it really should be my verse always.

swimming...calli passed to the highest level. she has progressed so fast. she is learning the different strokes right now. she was beaming, she was so proud of herself. she can now choose if she will do competitions or stop lessons. she loves it so much i think she will want to continue.

FINALLY my sisters both flew in. sammy and cade are best buds and couldn't wait to see each other. it was soooo much fun watching them.

dentist appointments

0, zip, zilch cavities! yippy!

we had dinner at our grandparents to welcome my sisters to town.

after we had a girls spa night.

we did facials, nails, foot soak, and relaxing.

tea, apple water, treats

if you need a little refresher just add green apples to your water. it seriously is so refreshing and tasty.

we let the kiddos join in too ;)

oh you have to have soothing music to set the mood too.

scary haha!

having a little fun with our mud masks haha!

strike a pose

i had many early mornings and late nights getting ready for the vow renewal. the moon was so bright this morning. it also looked so BIG! funny how it doesn't always in pictures.

after zumba ( my new obsession) we had a beach day. my aunt took her trailer down. it was perfect for the kids and a nice place to rest and make lunch in.

the birds were crazy!

the kids got a nice bubble bath before our plumbing backed up. all tubs, toilets, showers flooded and backed up. NICE!! luckily a very kind emergency handy man made a night visit. he left at 1am and returned in the am to finally fix the blockage. you know when disasters happen before a big event. it made our vow renewal feel like a real wedding! oh and when you have company staying at your home.

today is the last day to enter the sending love giveaway!! tomorrow the winner will be announced.
looks like those who have entered have GREAT odds! haha!

Faithfully Fasting

2012-02-12T21:18:00.001-08:00

Last Sunday our Pastor asked us to fast for 7 days. Our church has been for a year making a name change. Praying and fasting for God to take us in the direction to bring his glory and bring his children to the love of Christ.
I fasted blogging for a week. The time I would have used to blog I tried to pray and spend my time in his word.

I have missed blogging but have enjoyed this break and feeling more of His presence in my life.
In this last week we dedicated our children to God.
A commitment to Him to raise and guide our Children to know Him. To LOVE him. We did it with the presence of our family and friends.
I prayed for guidance the verse to speak over them. It came to me so quickly and I just knew!

Ephesians 3:18

That is our prayer for them.

Tonight we ended fasting with worship and the announcement of the new name of our church.

Revelation 7:17
"For the lamb at the center of the throne will be their Shepard; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from there eyes."

Our new church name is,
Center Point Church!!

We are so excited to be apart of Gods work and ministry at the Center Point Church!

Pictures from our vow renewal, child deduction, family honeymoon soon to come!! This week has been an amazing week and we PRAISE GOD, for his love, mercy and goodness in our lives.

sending love giveaway

2012-02-04T11:59:00.000-08:00

remember i promised a lovely giveaway?

this is my first giveaway and i am so excited. i felt like with all the exciting events taking place for our family, it would only be appropriate to share in the excitement and send some love.

{vow renewal

dedicating our kiddos

valentines day

honeymoons}

anyhow, i love mail, cards, letters, necklaces and LOVE! all these things are wrapped up in this little envelope.

sold by love stitched etsy shop

i want something out of this giveaway as well ;)

a few ways you could win this is

1. share your favorite heartfelt thing you have done, will do, or want to do for your valentine. i love new ideas!

2. share the love: post this giveaway on your blog

3. follow along. if you already do just note in your idea.

you have 3 chances to win. last day to enter 2-13!

the winner will be announced on valentines day.

good luck and i cant wait to hear your lovely ideas.

Can you breath?

2012-02-02T09:47:00.001-08:00

I can breath just fine. I went for a run this morning feeling thankful I can breath and well.
BUT
Cade can't breath so well. Yesterday we spent 3 hours at the dr. We are used to tiny colds turning ugly and fast, but Cade has been so healthy its been wonderful. It just breaks our hearts to see him so sick.

So were back to breathing treatments around the clock, chest pounding, humidifier, vapor rub, meds and lots of tlc. You know Cade is sick when he sits still.

Hopefully in another day or two he will be on the mend!

Because the kids were asking every day multiple times a day, when is our vacation? We decided a chain countdown would help us. (me) Our activities are written on each strip. Getting closer!! :)

Cade had a rough night again last night. After a bath he looks a little better. Sitting on his sick spot watching his shows.

Remember how I mentioned it's chaos around here?? Well it got Crazier.

lovely busy life part 2

2012-02-01T10:25:00.000-08:00

our garden only consists of snow peas right now and they are not disappointing!!

my little helper and his gatherings

a hodgepodge of beauty

bye bye baby room :(

so sweet

so refreshing!

crafts crafts galore ;)

This lovely busy life

2012-01-31T23:22:00.001-08:00

*sigh* things are busy. Incredibly busy. Its been a great busy but I am looking forward to a slow down in about a week. Our family honeymoon is to Catalina and our real honeymoon (just us two) is to New York. I CAN'T WAIT. Really. I am giddy excited to getaway.
All Cade talks about is the ride on the boat. The fishy tour and the beach. He sat on my lap while I research the island. He's got the scoop. ;) Calli is more concerned about her apparel. She would be packed if we let her.
But before the vacations I have been planning our vow renewal. It's exciting and chaotic all at the same time. Both of my sisters are flying from far to be here for this special time for our family. I am 1. Excited for some girl time. 2. The outings we have planed and 3. Us just being together. Another I CAN'T WAIT!!

In other news Cade is going to be 3 soon. Sniff sniff* last week he started climbing out of his crib and it was a nightmare. He wouldn't nap or stay in his bed. I thought I was done with any kind of quiet time or sanity. We brought down Calli's toddler bed and boy oh boy was he pumped. We got it down on Saturday and he stays in it all night long and sleeps longer. It's amazing, truly. Thank you lord!! It's also so so cute watching him sleep in his "big boy bed"

Last week in preparation for the change I repainted the stripes, took down the baby joy quote and my mama is making his new bedding. I have real camera pictures, some day I will post them. :)

We are officially in Girl Scout cookie madness. Calli and I had some girl time and went door to door. Calli did great.

We went to church and met with our Pastor who will be preforming our service. We are also going to be dedicating our Children before the renewal. This is also very special for our family.

Dane and I went on a shopping date for wedding attire and dinner at Yardhouse. It was so tasty!

We also celebrated Papa's birthday at the tortilla factory.

It was a beautiful night...

The kids watched them make tortillas intently. It was pretty cute.

I found some time to actually get ready.

I love groupdealz! I got this darling hand stamped necklace.

Calli had a personal swim lesson. She learned new strokes. Backstroke, and "froggy" hehe! She was loving every min.

Cade passed a level. Yippy!! Go Cade!

He is so stinking cute!!!

Cade and I waiting in line and this is typical Cade, always the entertainer. He had an audience.

YouTube Video

As the day went on he came down with a fever and ended up passing out in my arms. Poor little guy. <3

Did I mention I love FREE printables?!?! Well I do. Yes that's my messy desk. I told you, chaos. I will be linking to all my goodies.

I wish I had more energy to upload my camera pictures. Our snow peas are going crazy. They are so sweet. The flowers are blooming in our yard and the fruit salads I have been cutting are so refreshing. Oh and the amount of girl scout cookies I have been eating will put me into diabetic shock soon I'm sure.

I am putting a giveaway together. Stay tuned it's so "lovely"!!!

Love this song!!

2012-01-30T10:59:00.001-08:00

pained

2012-01-30T07:44:00.000-08:00

i have so much on my heart its BURSTING!! Literally last night in the middle of the night i woke up with sharp pains in my heart. felt like, what i would guess was a heart attack. I sat up for awhile and took deep breaths.

before i had gone to bed i had taken a bath and read for a bit and pinterest-ed a lot. i enjoyed a diet coke not to long before bed which can typically keep me up all night but i ended up falling asleep anyways.

i said my prayers with my head against the pillow right before falling asleep,
thanking God for being patient with me. for being kind to me. for loving me deeply and giving me the life i enjoy. i asked him to speak to me to which direction i should take my life. i asked to make me a better listener. to serve and give my time up unselfishly to my family. i asked for him to speak to my heart. asked him to pull the loose ends of my heart together. i asked him to help me put whats the most important things in my life first. i asked him to draw me closer and nearer to him. i apologized for my thoughts sometimes. i try and hold them captive and not let them run wild. even when i consciously try and not to think my mind wanders. i asked for his calming peace over me when i have anxiety. i prayed for specific people in my life that just bug me or hurt me (also those i bug and hurt that reconciliation of forgiveness will take place) so that all doesn't take up space in my head or heart. i asked for me to show love and grace to them just like He does. i love you dear heavenly father. amen

i asked for my chest pains. Gods hand tugging, pulling, stretching my heart. awakening and pouring his LOVE in mine. what ever was happening in the middle of last night was not an effect of caffeine or excited jitters from pinterest. it was what sometimes is painful. it was the overwhelming healing and changing power of Jesus.

i read just as i went to sleep last night was....

Ask, and it shall be given you;
seek, and ye shall find;
knock, and it shall be opened unto you:
For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.
Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?
Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent?
If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him.
Matthew 7:7-11

Were getting married.... again!!

2012-01-27T20:28:00.001-08:00

It's official. Dane and I are getting married. AGAIN!! It's so hard to surprise me. Yet he did.

Dane planned a family date night. He BBQ'd and had a fire going. It was a cozy night in. (I was in my pjs and hat hehe) It wasn't anything out of the norm.

Dinner was delicious as usual.

We were sitting by the fire. I had just opened up our Bible with Calli on my lap. I looked over and Dane was on his knee! I cried, Calli was so excited it looked like she was crying. Dane asked me to marry him again. He also had a very sparkly ring!!

He snuck in a toast! ;)

<3

We are so happy to begin our new life on the right foot. With God and our family together.

{excuse the casual wear..I had no clue, wish I hadn't rescheduled the nail appointment oops lol}

I love you Mr. Nelson and can't wait to marry you again!!

highlights from my week

2012-01-26T10:27:00.000-08:00

Movies we watched
1. Mr.Poppers Penguins- Kids loved!!
2. Ides of March- Makes me sad that our country is based on so many of these types of stories.
3. I don't know how she does it- Fun, lighthearted and so true for working and non working mamas. I love how it ends!
4. Courageous- I kind of thought this movie would be corny. (sorry) I was so wrong. yes it has its moments, BUT it was such a great story and so many lessons on trust, faith, purpose, and love. yes I cried!

Books I am reading
1. Dreamability- heavens dream your reality. by Bob Coy
2. Loving Sex- The Book Of Joy and Passion. by Laura Berman, PhD
3. Bible- still on my goal to finish this year

Music I am loving
1. Air1- Great uplifting tunes. love how cade humms and sings "gods not dead he's surely alive, mm roaring like a lion." melt my heart!
2. love songs in the background on Pandora. (app)

Stores I visited
1. Armstrongs
2. Henrys- Double ad Wednesday woot!!
3. Staters
4. Joanns
5. Lowes
6. .99 Store

Places for Me
1. New Gym- 3 Zumba classes, 1 hardcore class
2. Momspace- lesson on how to be a helpmate to my husband. also mom time!!
3. Nail appointment

Places for the Kiddos
1. Swim lessons
2. Park and Water Play Date

Websites I visited
1. modcloth.com
2. chasing butterflies blog
3. the benefits of green tea, ask.com
4. glenivy.specials.com
5. ebay (app)
6. Pinterest (app)
7. Kara's Party Ideas
8. Group dealz
9. groupon (app)
10.. of course the blogs i love ;)

Parties and Events I am Planning
1. Vow Renewal <3
2. Cades 3rd Birthday Curious George
3. Marriage ministry date night/ country bbq.

Date night this week is a surprise!! :)

That's the weekly wrap up!

Little Charmer Shower

2012-01-24T13:35:00.000-08:00

When we found out Megan (my sisinlaw & friend) was pregnant with their 3rd it was a total shock! A very exciting surprise none the less. I totally thought they would have a girl but again was surprised with a BOY! When thinking of the appropriate theme for Megan and Liam (baby boy) All I could think was 3rd times a charm. ;) Liam will be quiet the charmer I'm sure!!

It has been so chilly we had to have hot chocolate

and OJ was a must!! Megans craving.

Each guest got a charm necklace. They couldn't say Liam, Love, or Little. Or you lose your charm. Who ever had the most charms at the end won!

These flowers were so easy and bright.

"L" for Little Liam

the food was anything brunch. donuts, cinnamon rolls, bagels

grapes another of Megan's favorites these days.

key lime parfaits

another game was guessing how many "charms" were in the jar. calli was a big helper with this. 420 in total. who ever guessed correctly won got the jar of lucky charms.

I didn't get a picture of the book but each guest wrote a letter to Liam. I left room in it so Megan can bring it to the hospital or have out when people come to visit.

for sweets i made mini cheesecakes with strawberry sauce, caramel brownie bites and my signature dipped oreos ;)

the menu..

i made these flower pins for the favor and added the tag that says your my lucky charm. you can pin these things to anything and add a bit of flair.

my mom was so kind to have a sewing afternoon. we cut, sewed and created. thanks mom!!

i am loving all the yarn wreaths. so simple yet so fun.

i made an overnight quiche that truly was amazing. i surprised myself haha!

also overnight french toast. both recipes were shared by our sister in law Rachelle!

look how cute she is!

the 3 that are with child ;)

Megan and her Mama.

and with our Mother In Law. (Robyn won both games!!)

showered with love and baby essentials

deep in conversation...

Megan's Mom made an adorable prince charming diaper cake.

looks like Megan was winning the charm game..

uh oh she lost them all. but then she could say how much she loved all of Liams little things! ;)

I soo enjoyed planning this special day for Megan and cant wait to meet our newest nephew Liam!!

Fun Random Things

2012-01-19T22:29:00.001-08:00

Sunday mornings

Excited for worship she is ;)

Splendid flirty new coat

How the heck does a tea make my day?? Maybe it's the cup? the ice? All the above? :)

Crisp breakfast burrito on a rainy morning.

Speed connect four.. Got her game face hehe

Cades first swim lesson!! I couldn't believe my eyes. He was so happy, so confidant, he looked so big.

Calli fish ;) she loves to swim.

For 30 mins Dane and I watched both kids do something they enjoyed. It was so awesome.

Pointing to "that's my brother"

"hey that's my sissy"

Hey there :)

Pudding pie & good company ;)

Shower prep...fun paper flowers

Room redo inspiration...

Pinterest addiction first hand...

from the nato's: resources when dealing with infidelity

2012-01-19T12:47:00.000-08:00

from the nato's: resources when dealing with infidelity: i get a lot of emails that look like, hey, just found out my husband is having an affair, not sure where to start... so here is where i ...

i wanted to share this blog...again.

its been encouraging, insightful and honest.

all i have to add is that through God's grace and forgiveness dane and i are happier than we ever have been. seems so weird. seems so fake? i don't even know how to describe how i look at dane now. i cant even explain what i see when dane looks at me. its nothing like it was. its better. its amazing. its what life was made for.

the blessing that our father in heaven gave to us. our body our life our family. i am so blessed to have my husband by my side. my children so happy and healthy. to be provided for immeasurably.

that's not to say we don't have hard moments or days. even "normal" marriages experience those. i think we are better equipped with so much support and council.

our marriage is stronger than ever and our family is tighter than before.

like jami said the gospel is the only thing that makes a lasting change.

we pray often in anticipation and excitement for what God has in store for us. He is the center of our marriage.

He makes us, US.

I should be...

2012-01-17T14:41:00.000-08:00

I really should be working on laundry or prepping dinner BUT I am having way to much fun with pictures. I wanted to send out Valentines cards this year. It is my favorite holiday ya know! Last year it crept up so fast I didn't have the time. So this year it was on my list.

There is a bake shop in town I adore. Truly Madly Sweetly Bake Shop. Its just adorable and there cupcakes are really yummy. {Try the pucker up cheesecake todiefor! Also snickers cupcake mm mm.} I had the idea to take the kids there. Let them pick a cupcake and enjoy. All the while I will be snapping pics. I also prompted a smile here and there. :) Since it was raining it was perfect to be indoors.

I kindly asked the owner if she didn't mind me taking pics and she was more than happy to allow. The kids picked out there cupcakes and were off.

the sugar was setting in haha!

We really had fun and a great rainy day outing too. :)

I ordered our Valentines cards through Shutterfly this afternoon.

Check it off the list!! ;)

That a good idea?? <3

2012-01-16T08:59:00.001-08:00

Cade has lots of good ideas. This one was just too cute!

YouTube Video

That sounds like a GREAT idea! <3

Counseling & Date Night'S

2012-01-14T00:06:00.001-08:00

Counseling dates are still on our calendar. We took a few weeks off during the holidays. It was just super busy.
It felt so good to go back. A renewal. See where we can grow and also hear how were doing so well, in comparison to how things usually go. Which is always SO encouraging.
This time is so precious to us. We can get that neutral 3rd party perspective. Kind of put things into perspective when life gets off track. Maybe even recognize the lies the enemy wants us to believe.

Tonight our Counselor told us of a technics he uses. The power of prayer. Isn't that a thought? Asking Christ to show the truth, bring unmeasurable peace and clarity. (you can correct me Phil if I explained it incorrectly.)
He shared his experiences with us and even shared a website where we can see how it works. It's not some new age cult thing. We ourselves haven't done this with our counselor. But after hearing his testimony to it. He was in tears, I was in tears (which is beyond rare) it also moved Dane to schedule a one on one visit with our counselor. One experience he shared was with someone who came in suicidal and left with a smile. He then added, "I'm good but not that good, that's because of Christ our Lord." Chills sent down my body as I listened to other stories.
I will post the website so you can view it. I have yet to view it myself. :/ (it's been so busy) His accounts were enough for me.

After counseling we ran to yogurt so we could get home to relieve our sitters. Thank you Bob and Jodie for being there! :)

This may not look so appetizing, looking at it now, but boy oh boy was it good. New York cheesecake, almonds and whip cream.

We made it home for bed time and a movie. We watched the change up. It has a great story and ends well. Funny buy very crude.
(Oh and a fellow blogger posted a video last night that was incredibly powerful. Brought tears to my eyes.{ I think my heart is just bursting with crazy amounts of joy. Which wasn't a familiar thing. That must be the deal with all the tears Im guessing.} Again another link I would love to post. Everyone needs to hear the message. I needed it. So thank you fellow blogger. :)

Now up to speed. Today I was standing in the kitchen baking and cooking. Well the crockpot was cooking, when Dane called and asked if I had plans for the evening. I said well let me ask my husband. ;) When I asked he told me we were going on a real Date!! Dinner and a movie. He secured the sitter for the night. Also said your going for a run when I get home. Oh and I'm on my way home. It was 2pm!! Squeal**
We walked into the Yardhouse and to our left was Jen and Paul. We ended up sharing the night on a double date.

So note about this next picture...
Dane stopped drinking 4 months ago. Out of his own will. In that four months he has had maybe 4 beers through out then. Since Yardhouse is known for it large selection of beers he decided to try one. Ummmmk the beer came and it was the tallest glass I've ever seen. Felt like Vegas ha! Dane was a bit embarrassed so Paul joined the fun.

I ordered a cheeseburger. The presentation was so modern and neat. I loved it. The burger was mighty tasty too! It's kind of hard to see we were outside.

It was so nice to get two nights together. Over the holidays everything and everyone got so busy we missed our time.

built in by my boy!

2012-01-13T13:24:00.001-08:00

we had this BIG hole where our old tv used to be. its been empty for about a year. dane got motivated and in two days made a built in for it. i love my handy man. i almost feel like hes a genie in a bottle. wish: built in. granted. ;)

so we took pics of each step in the process.

and the big reveal...

i got the texted picture saying all done (while i was at girls night/even more amazing)

while he was at it he added bead board to the fire place.

we are still playing around with it.

for now everything that was above the BIG hole is in it.the recievers and dvd player, wii, dvds, remotes in the basket. pictures and my willow tree collection. <3

there you have it. no more BIG hole.

THANK YOU love for building this.

$2 dolla jamba juice coupon

2012-01-13T12:36:00.000-08:00

we LOVE jamba juice. they can be pretty pricey for a smoothie. so when ever i see a coupon im on it! i thought i would be so kind and share. go HERE to print your coupons. ;)

Bring it!

2012-01-12T15:36:00.001-08:00

Dane has been work'n out! He has gained a lot of weight and muscle (which he tried, wouldn't that be nice) He even works out in his truck.
He is also getting into running with me. Nice when he gets home and it's dark, he can push the kids. Hehe!

I ordered him his first pair of official running shoes. Dun dun dun.

I then sent him a quick friendly text ......

Then ended it with maybe not so nice, all in good fun.

Watch out all you Kenyan runners, Danes got speed.

Now if you know anything about me, you know I've got competitive blood. Watch out!
Bring it PORK CHOP! [Dane]

Are we there yet!?

2012-01-11T20:43:00.001-08:00

Wednesdays are always very busy for us. This Wednesday was no exception. It actually was jammed packed. I found myself saying "are we there yet, is it bed time?"

A peek into the day in the life of our Wednesday....

1. Ride to school

2. Help in Callis class

3. Drop off and pick ups

4. Meals and cleaning up (the many messes of Cade)

5. Chat with Dane about his day in the snow in a nice and quiet peaceful kid free truck ha! But also thank him for the project he completed last night (pictures to come :)

6. Girl scouts and cookie meeting (yesss cookies will be sold starting Sunday ;)

7. Listing appointment

8. Surprise showing appointments

(Change several times to meet the demands of the day haha!)

9. Dinner at Chick fil a because Mommy is to tired to cook

10. Henrys stop because I look forward to Double Ad Wednesdays every week, anyone else?

11. FaceTime with Sister, found out she will be out in 3 weeks!!!!!

12. Showers and bed time routines

13. Work on party favors, contracts, respond to emails and laundry

Not to mention all the other fun surprises our day takes. Always an adventure in the life of us. :)

Everyone needs one ;)

2012-01-10T23:57:00.001-08:00

A BEST friend that is! Mine is funny, smart, hot ;), generous, supportive, a great mommy, fast runner, a forever friend, there when you need her and so so so appreciated by me!

She is the friend that calls you on your crap. To lift you up when your down. To chat with for hours. (litterallly) Free therapy. Be silly with. Cry too. Dream and share ideas with. Relax with ;)

Love ya Maggy! Couldn't ask for a better bff!

Craft'n Yarn Wreath

2012-01-09T21:20:00.001-08:00

I have a few parties in the mix and I am loving all the craftiness.

This was my first yarn wreath. So easy. So fun.

I am always in at least two books. These are the two at the moment. I finish books fairly fast, but I have been savoring these. Sometimes I will leave the end of a book and start another because I don't want it to end. Weird I know. I do eventually finish them. When I'm ready.

Along with my daily scripture study my fun facts have accumulated. After a heavy debate I vowed to research questions I couldn't answer. (at least the ones that can be answered) I know this is a lifelong quest for knowledge and I will never know it all. BUT I be darned if I don't earnestly try.

The verses that I add to the top, come from my daily study or someone else shared and I was inspired to share. :)

You are MORE!

2012-01-07T20:36:00.000-08:00

Hair and ikea :)

2012-01-07T16:33:00.001-08:00

Friday we went to my hair appointment in Rancho Santa Margarita. The kids got to play with there cousins while I was refreshed ;)
I had been planning an ikea trip and thought we would swing by on the way home.

Say what? Swing by? Nooooo

We had a snack and were ready to shop till we dropped.

After a few hours and some heavy lifting we were on our way home.

So glad I don't commute daily. I kept adding up the hours of how much these people miss out of their life. It took us 2 almost 3 hours to get home. Yuck!!

We had to Jimmy a few things in. Haha!

I say it every time. Getting my hair done is the best feeling in the world!! I feel a bit feisty after ;)

We picked up daddy where we always do. When he brings his truck home.

Went home to a brand new computer. We found a computer repair man that is the most honest generous person. He went beyond the necessary Repair. Use him. We loved him.

Then it was a Netflix night ;)

New Years Eve

2012-01-07T16:10:00.000-08:00

We invited our families to come celebrate New Years Eve!!! Everyone contributed a dish to complete our dinner.

Every piece of tri tip was gone. you did a superb job love!

everyone mingled

poor megan, almost there, so close :)

we played a few games, one was a character guessing game. HYSTERICAL. honestly so funny!!

Uncle Ryan had a ball playing with the kids

a few of us stayed up till midnight. i believe Chelsea the youngest stayed up the latest.

Happy New Year 2012!!

Web Site Work

2012-01-07T15:49:00.000-08:00

Happy Family in there new home!!

So excited for them and happy to be their Realtor.

Look for my new website coming soon! :)

Sweet January

2012-01-07T15:43:00.000-08:00

It has been such BEAUTIFUL weather in January!! You better believe we went to the beach twice already!

we might have enjoyed this treat ;)

played in the sand

walked on the pier, met this guy

conquered the holes

cade's excitement is just refreshing haha!

grammy and papa doing there thing

our second trip

to Coronado

one of my favorite flowers:)

look how little they really are

clear pretty day

and to top it off my new love, you should hear her whistle ;)

Discouraged

2012-01-05T00:05:00.001-08:00

I have been very discouraged lately. Some questions I had on the implications of my actions had been weighing heavenly on me. In the spiritual sense. Also the consequences are not easy. When are they ever?

I have repented and changed my ways. I have made life changes some might call radical or even a crutch. I call faithfulness and unapologetic belief in Jesus Christ as my Savior and Redeemer.
At the end of the day what others think really doesn't matter. My salvation is not determined by what anyone [human] thinks. It's what I think/believe.

Sometimes what gets me about what others think [ and say] is when Christians, believers who Preach and claim to live or try their hardest to live like Christ....do not. I am no stranger to this, I have been there. No one is perfect and everyone falls short.
It's those who judge, through the stone and point the finger that really bother me. It's hard to understand and frankly confusing. When everyone sins!
Maybe after what I have recently been through I have more compassion for those who fall way short. I give more love and understanding because they, like me need it the most. Heck we all need it!
What benefit is it to only show understanding and love towards those that are the popular choice? Or the easiest to show love and forgiveness too?

I was more discouraged tonight than I had ever been and felt maybe I am not understanding? Or haven't fully repented for my actions? [like did i miss a step] Or maybe I wasn't forgiven? Or maybe I am putting to much emphasis on others judgments or actions?

A message I recently read.. "Its NOT all about YOU!"
As much as we are told that this world has been created for us, that is far from truth. It's so easy for me to get caught up in, what I want! What I need! What I deserve! What I will get! What others think about me! All those statements are what led me to make poor choices.
The poor me act. I had lived a good life and did everything as I should but felt so empty and lost. So instead of living for the purpose I was sent here for, I compromised for what I wanted. [there were genuine needs that weren't being met BUT that's a reason not an excuse]

Moving on, I have been seeking answers to my questions on wether or not I have been truly forgiven. If I should take stock in what others think or say?
I watched the documentary on The Case For Faith. Many Bible verse were quoted but these JUMPED out at me. So much that I read it at least 10 times.

My answer is right there.

I will show grace to those who judge me. Let it go. Over and over. Not have the mentality that its all about me, because it truly isn't.
I have been shown grace and given peace in this knowledge, I do not have to be discouraged.

This world was not made as an easy street, their is suffering and loss and consequences. Yet I do believe that out of those things the purpose of them are to prepare us for greater things [i cannot comprehend now] and to glorify our loving God.

I am minimizing the atonement by saying maybe my sin hasn't been forgiven. As if Jesus didn't do a sufficient job and that it's not true that he paid the price for ALL sins and for ALL mankind.
Again it's not all about me, my sin is not to big or bad.
And to remember to lean and trust in the Lord, my Comforter.

2 Peter 1

Workin Mommy

2012-01-04T20:22:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I got my FIRST pay check as a Real Estate Agent!!!

My sweet hubby sent me celebratory flowers ;)
At work they had a team meeting and I was recognized for my first completed deal.
I love that I can be a full time at home Mommy and part time Agent. The balance is perfect.
I'm excited for many more deals. Here's to the first. Cheers!!

Daily Gifts

2012-01-02T18:28:00.001-08:00

My daily gifts list is inspired by the past few days. Life is good.

1. Fancy home dinner just because
2. S'mores and fire to cook with
3. Backyard camping

4. Singing worship songs Calli learned at Sunday school
5. Reading The Childrens Bible
6. The case for Christ documentary and new information to me

7. Using my gift card from Christmas ;)

8. Sweet calming smells

9. My talented, thoughtful, genuine Husband
10. Netflix the BEST thing ever
11. wii to play it on (thanks Grammy and Papa)
12. The health to run and breath
13. Safe places to run

14. My 2 C's and the honor to be their Mommy ;)

15. Beautiful Southern California beach weather in January
16. Yummy Mexican food
17. Clean water to drink

18. Wonders of nature

19. Smiles

20. Tiny hands grabbing "gold"

21. Joyful playing without a care in the world

22. Frozen yogurt cold and yummy after a day in the sun
23. Warm bubble bath and soap to clean with
24. Watching Forks over knives documentary and resolving to make dietary changes to live healthier
25. You are more

Break it down...

2012-01-01T14:38:00.001-08:00

Happy Happy New Year!! I don't know about you but I am so happy to have a fresh new year?! Dane asked what my resolution was and I hadn't even thought about it. Quickly I responded with, to learn and study the bible. Not just "read it" but learn and let the spirit guide me. Excited I am.
Now for a thought out resolution, I have many things I would like to improve on and that list is always evolving. I have things that will always be and are challenges for me. My goal I guess is to keep perspective on those challenges and be grateful for the blessings that surpass the trials. With that said...
Last week was the second week of winter break for Calli and this is my favorite time of year!!!!

Monday,
I woke up early did a little after Christmas shopping. You know more storage for the extra decor, steals from Target (I had my eye on all season just waiting for the sale)

Deep cleaned and got Christmas minus the tree put away. High Five!

Tuesday,
Loung day!! Laid out in the warm sun outside while kids played in the water. Finished Forgotten God! LOVED it. I'm beginning to really enjoy reading. What are your favorite reads??

Went to the mall did some returns and more shopping ;) the best time to shop, DEALS people

Then a little yogurt :)

Wowza...

Wednesday,
We hung out
Went grocery shopping at Henrys
Met Aunt Jen, Uncle Paul and baby Delton for lunch

They love them :)

Then I worked a little

Thursday
Went to my FAVORITE outlet..Carlasbad!! Totally scored :)) Pics to come!!
Calli had some fun on my phone on the way lol

The one thing I did not buy BUT sent a pic to Hubby for a Valentines idea or just because if he can't wait (sarcasm) ;)

Went to the beach with Grammy and Papa (used my real camera most of the day)
My happy happy place!

Then we dropped off the kids. Dane accompanied me to give keys to my clients!! So excited for them!! We closed 8 days early and they got there forever house. I love what I do.

The skies were ahhhhmazing on the drive.

Friday,
Showing homes
Park play date with friends
Costco trip, grocery store and hair cuts. Phew is the week almost done??

Saturday,
We got ready for our New Years Eve Paarty!
We got a new BBQ for Christmas from my Dad and we finally had a morning to go get it!
Happy Camper...so spoiled!

I also decided at 9 pm friday to use frames and pictures I had. I cut out wrapping paper and hung in the arrangement.

Filled the frames, Dane hung. We also made the board in the middle. My sister gave me everything to make it. Thanks Sis!

Then we prepped the food for the party, I made my homemade salsa, Dane made his famous tri tip. Mmmmmm.

We got ready and had a little fun waiting for guest to arrive ;)

The rest of the evening is on my real camera and boy it was a HOOT!! Thank you family for welcoming the new year with us!!

Sunday,
FIRST day if the new year!
Slept in, went to late service. Came home, enjoyed leftovers and NAPS! That's just how we do it ;)

Looking back..

2011-12-27T15:47:00.001-08:00

I don't have...
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
Path
Or any other social media
I do blog and LOVE it, I have modified and watched how I use it.
I used to love, long and lust after time and the technology to use all the above.
I do have the technology and have had the technology to use any of the above.
I really do have time but have replaced the time with more meaning full connections or ambitions. Thats a whole new post.

Months ago I didn't want to be rejected or worried of peoples reactions. So I deleted them. For a good while that was more of the reason why I didn't have them.
Then I started to forget those things existed. Someone would mention Facebook and I would have to think back...no but I really would forget.
Imagine things would happen and I wouldn't know!!! What a tragedy! ;) if you are in a friendship that relies on status updates to stay connected I feel bad for you. Your missing out!

I had gone through some of my older posts and saw the multiple attempts to quit Facebook. Haha! Then my justification on why I got it back. How lame. No self control.
Most people might not have a problem with any social media and are members of all the above. You might have it and not even use it. Which ever the case. I'm not slamming you or calling you weak. My lack of self control and emptiness led me to become addicted.

I am just excited for myself.

Excited with where I am. NOT there :)
My business is doing just fine without it. I am in contact with family and friends on a human level. I am more present in life now than I ever have been before.
I can focus more than what my next status is or how many people "liked" it.
I am not involved in useless issues brought on by people knowing to much.

It's awesome!!
I also don't blog for comments. If you notice not to many comments but yet I keep blogging ;)
I love to document our story and don't mind if 1 person reads or 1000.

Ready set go...

2011-12-27T10:43:00.001-08:00

YouTube Video

Christmas Eve and Day: Part 1

2011-12-26T19:35:00.000-08:00

Christmas eve day I made a Target trip, baked and cleaned. Grammy and Papa came over to exchange gifts.

Christmas Eve night we went to Dane's Aunts home to celebrate with all of his Dad's side. Its always fun to catch up with family and see the cousins. Dinner was delish! We sang Happy Birthday to Jesus with the Cake Calli and I made. The kids exchanged gifts and we booked it home to put out Santa and the Reindeer goodies.

The kids both fell asleep but woke up to get everything ready. Of course our Santa needed Diet Coke ;) The kids had their lists all ready.

We read T'was The Night Before Christmas and It was Christmas Night to the kids...then Santa and his helper got to work. This year Santa was prepared with pre wrapped gifts, so easy ;)

Each kid got their own paper, even the big kids ;)

I LOVE Christmas Eve with all the present under the tree. I could just sit and stare.

Some lucky kids I tell you!

WAKE UP!! Santa came!!

How did Santa know I love Curious George ;)

Looks like the treats were appreciated :)

He also left a note to the kids, telling them how happy he was to bring them gifts because they were on the nice list. Phew we were worried about Cade ;)

The Stocking took quiet awhile...

I just love her excitement and the looks are great haha!

ALL Cade really wanted was this "fire truck" ambulance. It was all he could talk about since costco put them out.

Calli got the sparkliest Sperry's they are adorable!

He also looooves to cook dinner. Now he has his own kitchen!

Once the kids were all done, the big kids opened. I wanted Dane to go first. :)

The kids picked out their own gifts for him and even wrapped them.

He was spoiled this year, which he deserved. I blew my budget oh well ;)

Handsome :)

Then I went....I was also spoiled and Dane went waaay over budget. It was so fun though. He got so creative!! I have more phone pics but can you guess what objects are in the next picture? ;)

We had the Christmas morning I pictured and wanted this year!!

Grammy and Papa gave the kids these Jammies...way to cute ;)

OH cant forget my new pea coat. in love I am!!

We played around a bit ...

Then we got ready for Church. I was especially excited for service on Christmas.

After an amazing service, we came home and made a BIG brunch. We drank out of fancy glasses and ate on fun plates. Once we were stuffed we watched movies and took naps. Later for dinner we went to Dane's Mom's to celebrate with his Mom's side. It was a full Christmas weekend. Starting with parties on Thursday. The kids were DONE. I was a little tired of being on the go but always enjoy a good party! ;)

Part 2 coming soon.....

;)

2011-12-25T21:12:00.001-08:00

Ultimate Gift!!

2011-12-25T15:58:00.001-08:00

Regardless of our circumstances or whats under our tree. We are joyous in worship. Today a child was born the Christ our Savior!!!

"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen His glory the glory of the One and Only who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."
John 1:14

"Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."
Luke 1:14

How great is our God!!!
Happy birthday Jesus!
Merry Christmas :)

Happy Christmas eve!!

2011-12-24T14:58:00.001-08:00

Our birthday cake for Jesus! Isn't he adorable. ;)

We are counting down the minutes till Christmas...

Hope your eve and day are merry and bright!!!
Merry Christmas
xoxo

Cousins Christmas

2011-12-23T09:25:00.000-08:00

I am not the best indoor picture taker. Maybe not great at outdoor either ha! But I wanted to get an updated picture of the cousins for some gifts. The models were fun regardless of the quality ;)

Delton has gotten so big!

Sweet Natalie

We finally got one with baby Kristen :) The best out of many..its pretty challenging to get 6 kids of these ages to look at the camera at least. I think I said that the last time but it is!!

this one cracks me up!!

I love his little surprised look haha!

Busy busy..

2011-12-22T14:10:00.001-08:00

Things have gotten so busy as it tends to this time of year. I kind of hoped for a little break to breath (maybe a little sun) and then hop back into the holidays. My wish for a break came. Today was a gorgeous sunny day. The kids played in the back yard while I laid on the grass and soaked up the sun. I started to get that feeling of when Christmas is over. That renewed new year energy. (minus I have a cold and lack energy) I started to feel the urge to clean, prepare, and plan. Anyone else feel like this after the holidays? Just me?

Anyways as I laid there I felt peaceful despite how rushed I had felt. I realized I hadn't prayed yet or done any kind of study. I said quiet prayers and took advantage of the quiet breeze and nature beneath me. After some time I made lunch put the kids down for nap/quiet time. With the dryer buzzing at me and a wrap up list ridiculously long I chose to read the Bible. I could tell I needed something to lighten the day. Or just put things into perspective.

I love how I can be anywhere and my phone has tons of options to study. No excuses ;)

So I typed in bible verses for hope. I enjoy reading grouped verses on topics. I also have an app called the daily audio bible and proverb. His voice kind of creeped me out at first but now I like it. :)

Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Romans 12:12

I notice Romans held a lot of hope. I am so glad I took the time to stop worship and breath. Now I can jump back into the marathon parties revived. Tuned into the reason for the season. Jesus Christ. Look at the ridiculously long list of "wrap up" and pick what's really important. Take a break I give you permission, you won't regret it! ;)

Bottoms Up!

2011-12-20T20:16:00.000-08:00

Where's the presents at??

Look at that cute bottom ;)

Thank you Papa and T for the fun PJ's!! ;)

A full weekend!

2011-12-20T08:53:00.001-08:00

Friday afternoon we picked Daddy up from his truck. This trailer wouldn't fit in front of our house.

I made 2 dozen sugar cookies for Callis Caroling and Cookie Decorating with the Girl Scouts. She came home with this cute snowman. She also had a great time.

Friday night we hosted a Christmas game night. I didn't get any pics. :/ We scratched the game and chatted with yummy food and treats till almost 1. Soo fun!!

Saturday we had an early Christmas present for the kids. A Puppy!! They were BEYOND excited! They named her Joy.

We picked her up and went straight to a family party.

She was a good puppy and slept most of the time.

Sunday we woke up bright and early for church. After we finished up gifts and errands. Later we drove up to another family party.
The drive up was gorgeous.

Everyone was sleepy from a busy weekend!

The kids got so many neat things at all the parties.

Calli got a new art set she enjoyed.

The kids also got these funny pjs with the butt flap. Haha!

Finally bed time for all of us!

Now to Monday! I woke up not feeling so hot. So we hung out all day. This is the only day this week we don't have a jam packed day.
We played with all our new toys.

And Joy.

This morning Calli didn't want to really take care of Joy. She tried but realized a puppy is so much work. So I had to. The past few days Calli has liked Joy mostly when she was asleep. Otherwise she is kind of afraid of her. :/ she is a teething puppy and work. I am not a dog lover and told the family I wouldn't be taking care of her. I could tell that Joy would become my dog. I talked to the kids and asked if we should find her a new home. Calli said yes. Maybe when she is a little older and a different dog she will be ready. Joy has new loving family.
Calli was fine till the night when she cried and cried. Both Dane and I felt bad and kinda responsible for taking on this baby without really thinking to far into it. We just assumed Callis love for dogs would make it a breeze.
The kids woke up better this morning, still missing Joy though.

We will stick to fish for now. Haha!

Night on the town

2011-12-19T20:00:00.001-08:00

Tonight we had a few stores to hit up. We decided to treat ourselves to Shogun. ;) Just incase it rains. Ha!

Always a good show :)

After some shopping we went by this streets light show for the second time. It's so close and really neat!

YouTube Video

A nice break from the hustle and bustle. Hint: go out Monday nights the town is yours. ;)

First grade Christmas performance!!

2011-12-16T19:19:00.001-08:00

It was a full house for the first grade performance! Cade was sooo excited for his sissy.

We were way in the back! Can you spy Calli? :)

She sees us ;) All the first grade classes sang 6 songs together and each class got a solo song and poem. They had this cute song called hello from around the world. I got a little of it. Can't see much but you can hear. ;)

YouTube Video

It seriously was adorable!! Even though we were far we could hear Calli. All that practice paid off! :)

Grandma and Papa Taylor came...

Papa and Mimi showed up too...

Cade loves his girlfriend Scarlett.

Calli and her bff Riley.

My face hurt from the permanent smile and laughing. Such a fun night and great way to celebrate the season!

Complete...

2011-12-16T08:09:00.001-08:00

I also made this removable flower. These are the school colors. ;) Now it's complete!

Daily life...

2011-12-16T00:01:00.001-08:00

Wednesday we did not have our typical Grammy night. She is in South Carolina visiting my sister, I guess we have to share her sometimes. ;)
Instead I had an appointment with clients not to far from my Dad's. We met up and they treated us to Vinces Italian. The kids had been my little business partners for the week. Dane just got home from Texas today, just in time for Callis Christmas performance. :)
Back to dinner. The kids were wild probably from all the driving and busyness this week. Still cute none the less!

Cade has a dazed tired kinda possessed look. Yikes lol

After the drive home I thought I would just collapse in exhaustion. I forced a second wind so I could work on the house. It was horrendous. Between work, Christmas, school, and just living the three of us did a number on the place. Knowing Dane would be home and I was going to be busy I stayed up until 1....I can't do that anymore!! Soo sleepy today.

My peppermint tea in my Cali mug kept me warm, it was CHILLY the last few days!

This morning their was frost on the lawns, evidence of just how cold. Typical Californian, a little frost means freezing haha!

I looked over and saw this compact little guy bookin it. Thought it was cute. :)

And she wanted to model her new outfit from her Great Grandma. :)

I finally finished it!!!! It actually didn't take much time. I just took a short break while life got busy. I sorta had to finish it... Its for Callis teacher. Talk about pressure. My first crochet project. Calli was just super excited about the whole thing it was her idea to give it as a gift. She kept hinting.. So you think your gonna finish it? TA DA!

It's not perfect but oh well. I actually kinda like the unique edges haha!
A little modeling action. ;)

I also took a trip to the post office to send my first international eBay package. I don't typically send internationally but I made an exception for this man in Malaysia. Lesson learned....NO more international shipping. 45 bucks to send when it should have been like 5 anywhere in the US. I had only charge 10. Oh well Merry Christmas Mr. Malaysia.

The rest of our day was busy getting ready for the first grade Christmas performance.
And look at the time almost midnight. Night! :)

An update...

2011-12-15T08:03:00.001-08:00

Things have been going really well (relatively) the last few weeks between Dane and I. We are very grateful for the blessings we receive daily and I'm starting to see challenges as blessings. They teach me the direction I should be going. Saying this the most recent "happening" has been...

Awhile ago I had written an email apology to the women I hurt in the affair. I was speaking with a family member about it and although I had thought about it a lot I wasn't sure how receptive this women might be.

I had prayed wether or not I should.

Dane was 100% opposed. He thought I should just drop it. Let it be. That he didn't want anything from the other man.
I felt differently and ultimately I wrote the letter without Danes approval. I felt that even if she deleted it, never forgives me, or responded in anger (which I wouldn't blame her) I knew it was the right thing to do.

I had issues sending the email. So I forwarded it again. I still wasn't positive that it sent but I thought the second try might have gone through, I hadn't gotten the same error message. I had thanked my family/ friend for letting me talk it through and give me inspiration. It defiantly did help me build more courage.
I never received or herd anything back and figured it was best I hadn't.

Yesterday I was chatting with this same family member. She said that the other women didn't receive the email after all. All this time I had wondered. Yet didn't want to keep harassing this poor women if she had gotten it and was like... um hello please stop!!
I immediately knew I would send a new email and this time I had much more peace as to what I would say. Besides the obvious I am sorry.
Once I sent it I was relieved. No issues sending it and I didn't feel worried if I had made the right decision.
I told the same family member I had sent it and that way at least one other person knew.
I prayed that this women would know my sincerity. She would take the words for what they are. Also to bring peace and comfort to her.

All I herd is that she did receive it. This time I really did feel that the letter was more for me just as much as it was for her.

I told Dane I had resent a new letter. He was still a little reluctant but a little better this time. After we hung up he was listening to a sermon, it said that in forgiveness, making right what was wrong with your "brother" is just as important as repentance. That once that has taken place then you can truly hear God.

He called back and apologized. Told me what he had herd and he knew that was what I needed to do regardless of how the women took it.

I kind of challenge him on the whole thing. I had asked if he indeed needed an apology or if he could know the other man was sorry as well.

Since the beginning lots of peoples opinions were how this was so wrong to do to her. Which undeniably it was but at the time my focus was Dane and our family.
They felt bad for Dane but he never herd nor got the feeling the other man was sorry for turning Danes world upside down as well.

It's been more the focus on me and how sorry I am or what some think is a lack of.
I could hear in his voice the hurt. He knows I am truly sorry but hasn't felt that from the other party. His world shattered by two people that were responsible.

Regardless of him saying he doesn't want to hear from the other party. Which he still says he doesn't. I could gather that just by his response, regardless if the other women wanted to hear from me, she might have gotten something to help her in the end.

My prayers are still with the other family. As well as for my Dane. The pain is still there regardless of how much we try to live "normally". Yet the new normal we have created we are so very happy in and I just can't help but wonder how any one could ever save their marriage without God. I guess those are the ones that fail or don't know it's possible. Praise be to Him and the grace he has shown me and my family.

Tuesday? randomness

2011-12-13T21:56:00.001-08:00

Today was BUSY!! I needed my skinny peppermint mocha frap to get me through! It doesn't feel like Tuesday!? Feels like tomorrow should be Saturday :( I guess just wishful thinking...

I found this* loved *and trying to figure out where to hang it hmmm

My find for the day....a $5 t for Calli, she is in need of long sleeves thought it was pretty cute too ;)

Two separate trips to Riverside, home inspection and a favor for a lender made this day never ending.... I also ran out of ink mid printing...everything felt like it needed a tiny bit more effort. :/

The crossing guard for Calli's school is such a sweetheart. She is out there rain or shine. Poor lady has been freezing! I saw these hand warmers knew she needed them, threw them at her from my nice warm car haha! It was like Christmas morning for her ;)

The kids went with me on my last appointment. We got to see fun new festive homes, this one did a Disney Christmas theme. The kids enjoyed the neighborhood. They had lots of Christmas lights. They were also angels during the appointment, believe it or not. Phew :)

That concludes the random Tuesday happenings.

Can you help? ;)

2011-12-13T09:20:00.001-08:00

This season we have tried to take the "I want" out of Christmas. Of course they have a wish list but it's not what Christmas is about.
The past few days Calli had been talking about these ideas she had and rallied up some friends at school to help her.
This morning she was sitting on my bathroom counter passionately making her proposition of her project. She said we need a bigger house to teach more kids. It was just to much to not remember.

YouTube Video

Bless her heart!

YouTube Video

I told her what ever money she raises she can sponsor a child on the angel tree at church. She wasn't satisfied. She said but we are rich we need to open a free school. She also said you better put this on your blog. Yes Ma'am. Haha!
We started Callis fund with 10 bucks. We hope she waits to world travel until she is 18. ;)

Eat Drink and Be Wild ;)

2011-12-12T21:13:00.001-08:00

Dinner with the Shields Clan + Nelson Duo = kids gone bonkers!
Say Santa....

Merry and Bright are they ;)

Running, Running and Running!!!

2011-12-12T10:29:00.001-08:00

Half Marathon training has begun!!! 1:55 pr...here I come ;)

13 days till Christmas!

2011-12-11T22:25:00.001-08:00

Special hot chocolate night while watching their favorite, Americas Funniest Home Videos. ;)

Kicking off Christmas

2011-12-11T22:16:00.001-08:00

My Grandparents annual Christmas party is my favorite party of the whole year. It reminds me of when I was a little girl celebrating Christmas with my family.

Sweet cousins..

Calli the Great and Luc the Grand to Grandma and barn Papa.

Martha Stuart ain't got nothing on my Grandmother. From the decor to the food to the entertainment it's always perfectly planned!! ;)

Papa provides the entertainment with his 1940's train. All the kids sit in amazement. That train can book it!!

The Dads got 3 nerf footballs stuck in the big tree and spent quite awhile trying to get them out!

Throwing water bottles and balls haha!

Dinner was delish as usual ;)

The gift exchange is a hoot. This year Dane won a tool caddy and I won a memory foam bath mat. Fancy ;) were just glad we didn't get stuck with the fruit cake.

The boys

The girls

Grandmas homemade parting basket.. Pumpkin bread, silver spoon, homemade jam, spices and cookies.

It was a wonderful party!! So thankful for family close enough to celebrate with. Missed you sisters :(

Christmas Countdown

2011-12-08T12:27:00.001-08:00

Every night we try and do something simple but memorable for our advent. One night was an extra Christmas story before bed. Hide n'seek and bored game night. Christmas movie night. Nativity and the story. Shopping for gifts for kids in need. Making treats for neighbors. Special hot coco night. Bring dinner to a sick friend or family. So on....

Every Wednesday we are either at Grammys house or ours for dinner and an activity. Last week Papa watched the kids and my mother and I went to church for "soup and service" We made cards for the elderly and tied quilts for veterans. It was so enjoyable! The kids had Christmas movie night.
This week Grammy came for margarita pizza and gingerbread house making.

She surprised me with the sweater I wore when I was Calli's age. My Great Grandmother Sophie hand painted one for me and my sisters. She has passed many years ago but how talented was she?!?

Let the building begin!!
Both kids were chomping at the bit to build.

We turned on our family christmas favorites. Neil Diamond, Amy Grant, and Christmas classics.

YouTube Video

We needed to update our holiday saying ;)

Calli's side :)

Cade's side :)

Dane got home late from his trip to Utah. He brought home those pretty flowers for me ;)

I'm excited to have most all my Christmas shopping done. I have more time to spend with the people that mean the most to me and helping those who are in need. Also just enjoy this magical time of year!! ;)

Hope your all enjoying your Christmas countdown!!

Vegas day 4 going home...

2011-12-08T11:37:00.001-08:00

We had one last morning in Vegas. Dane was going to continue his journey to Utah for work and I was going to go home once we packed up and had brunch.

I was sleepy, sore and hungry. I tried to walk and get ice down the hall from our room and that was effort ha! Dane did most of the packing. Once we were ready we went to the Ballagio for their buffet. I really love seeing their seasonal garden. Look how fun!

My Sister Lauren loves polar bears. This one is for her ;)

We both felt better once we had food in us. I had more fruit and healthy options so I didn't gain 10lbs this weekend. I did have a tiny piece of cheesecake. Hehe! We drove to Danes truck. Said our goodbyes. I was off to pick up the kids.
My 3 hour drive wasn't bad at all. I listened to the sermon I missed. Enjoyed music and silence. I also received an email the offer I submitted Friday was accepted and we started escrow today! Yippy! By the end of the drive I felt stiff and sore just sitting.
I was so excited to see my kiddos. Cade was so happy to have his mama back. While we were away the kids had gone to A Christmas Carol play. They saw the Polar express train. Went ice skating. Church. Made ornaments. Calli was in craft heaven!! She also got to skip school. Don't tell ;)

Both grandparents and kids looked exhausted! lol
We stayed for dinner and visited.
While Dane was in beautiful Utah!

We are so grateful we have parents close who take our kids so we can take time away! Thank you Dad and T!!

The kids went right to bed... I soaked in a bubble bath and blogged. What a perfect way to end to the day/getaway!

I am loved ;)

2011-12-07T19:42:00.001-08:00

Thank you Babe!!
xoxox

Vegas half marathon day 2-3!

2011-12-05T22:51:00.001-08:00

We checked into our hotel. We stayed at the Hilton on the strip. It was super Christmasy and smoke free! There was a starbucks in the hotel!! My kind of place ;) Once we got settled in we were tired so we chilled, watched tv and waited to venture out to the strip. It was FREEZING! Let me repeat. FREEZING!!! Also windy. So walking along the strip wasn't so appealing.

Our room was also very nice and the bed so comfy and warm.

Sorry but it was also our romantic getaway ;)

We met up with my bff Maggy and her hubby Billy. Off to the race expo we were. You might think once you have seen one expo you've seen em all. Not so! This was by far the largest expo I've seen. Tons of free stuff. Our swag bags were awesome. The shirts were adorable! Except a bit on the small size. I got a new arm band for my iPhone. Some GUs and samples. It's Amazing everything you can buy for a sport that you need so little to actually do.

After the expo we walled through the venetian hotel. They had these amazing flower balls hanging. It smelled wonderful and were so pretty.

I love Christmas in Vegas. They really go all out in each hotel.

We looked at dinner options and their are SO many. Almost to many its hard to pick. We all decided on the Buffet at the Wynn. The next paragraph might seem over the top BUT words cannot even describe how amazing this place was.

The best food I have ever had. Every food option and best quality around. I wanted to eat it all. I just a few bites of a lot of things so that I could try more. Dane probably ate enough crab legs to fill 5 men. I loved the variety and rich tastes. The best part was probably the company. We laughed so hard I almost cried. Getting competitive people together and very funny ones is the best. We enjoyed the ambiance and felt as if we were the only party there.
Then we come to the desserts. Which is much more important to Maggy and I. Let's stop and admire them...

This picture does not do justice. Their was glitter on the cupcakes. The best pumpkin pie I have ever had. The gelato (we had 3 servings of) to die for! They had more options, carmel apples and pies. I'm missing more but at this point need I say more? You must must go! All we could talk or dream about was this dinner.

We did a little more walking. Went back to get ready for a night out. We had gotten a few suggestions from Erika, but this was one of the busiest weekend in Vegas (all year) and the waits for any club was at least 2 hours. I don't do that at Disneyland, not going to in Vegas. Besides we had a race the next day. We decided on going to the top of the Stratosphere. We tried to look cute but 32 degrees and a half mile walk kills it ha! Psst look at the pretty stair case at our hotel.

At the top there is a floating bar where we snuggled on a couch and admired.

We also watched the crazys jump from the top. Made my stomach sick.

Outside still soooooooooo cold but we had to at least say we stepped out.

We watched the Dj mix and enjoyed the view.

One am came quick and off to bed it was....

The next morning was day 3. We ventured out to the strip for some shopping. We went into the Paris for breakfast. This eclair melted in our mouths. Yum!

Bellagio fountain was orchestrated to Christmas music.

The Fourm shops has a cheesecake factory. We couldn't resist the peanut butter cup chocolate cake cheesecake?! Since Cade is allergic we don't get peanut butter all that often.

I had 5 VS rewards cards to redeem. I won 100 dollars on one! And 4, 10dollar cards. 140 to VS!! Everyone was giving me high fives and screaming! Haha! It was funny. Free money heck ya! Dane was pretty excited too ;)

The kids are so into Dolphins I had to.

For our pre race meal we had CPK. A little salad a little pizza. Mmmmmmm

This was the map of the road closures for the race. Pretty much all of Las Vegas. It was insane seeing the streets cleared out.

After a super stressful time getting to the start of the race, once we were there we got pumped up! Like I had mentioned I didn't train at all for the race. Not at all! I had no time expectation but to just enjoy it an not get hurt.

The freezingness continued..

They were not kidding...

40k runners ran this race
Dane took this video at the start of the race up on a bridge. Pretty awesome!

YouTube Video

There were bands playing at every mile.

We were frozen but so excited. This was Maggys first half and she had trained hard! I was so excited for her :) I was just loving the energy. It actually jumped started my love for running again.

This was the crowd ahead of us. We were coral 12 1 being the fastest, out of a lot haha! It was almost impossible to run the first mile because it was so packed.

The first 8 miles were great. Right along the strip. My 5k was in 32 mins my 10k 55 mins and at mile 8 I had to start waking. I felt my muscles frozen and pain. I jogged and walked for the next few miles. At mile 12 I felt pretty good but was ready to be done. I had seen the 2:30 pacers the whole time and suddenly I fell way behind. I walked the last two miles because I couldn't run. I was shaking and done. My finish time was 2:59. The worst time I have ever gotten. I could really care more. I was waking uninjured. Frozen and happy I finished. At the finish there were many runners throwing up. Passing out. Hypothermia. Injured. It took sometime to meet up with Dane and the others. My phone had died and it was chaos. I actually started to panic a little because I was so cold I was shaking violently. Right as I saw them it started to rain and then snow. We had almost a mile walk to the car and I figured Maggy and I ran/walked 19+ miles that day. We both felt nautious and sore. We picked up dinner and headed back to the hotel to shower and relax. It took a 20 min HoT shower to thaw out.

It was such a blast and I cannot wait till next year. Although I would be shocked if they do it at night again. Even the elite runners who were interviewed expressed there concern for the elements and lack of preparation at the finish. Oh and Kate Gosslin (you know Jon and Kate +8) ran the marathon!! I'm sure more celebs did too but how fun is that? I was apart of this huge event!

Viva Las Vegas: Day 1

2011-12-05T21:24:00.001-08:00

The day started at 5:30 am with a call from Dane saying the tahoe wasn't running well and if something had happened? No nothing that I knew.
Grrreat just what we need more on our list. I suggested maybe rats chewed through wires for the sudden change over night? Luckily Dane made it to his work yard. They have a full shop where he diagnosed the problem. Wouldn't you know stupid rats chewed through some wires. The first time I pegged a car trouble. Dane fixed it, saved us thousands! I am SO thankful for his skills.
Moving on.... the day was jammed packed with random tasks. We have sold over 600 dollars of product on eBay in a week. No joke. We have become post office pros. It's super easy but its time consuming. Just as you get a few things shipped you sell something else. Which is awesome.
Packing and shopping for the family for 4 days is a task all in itself. Say 4, 4 times fast. Ha! I had signed up to bring dessert for our womens heavenly treasures runway show at church, not really thinking about the date.
After packing up the kids making dessert and getting ready we were off.
Don't they look delish ;)

I dropped the kiddos off half way with grandma t and they were on there way to go ice skating. Kissed them goodbye and did a happy dance to the car. Haha! I stopped by my friend Erika's. I got to peek at her new place and she let me borrow dresses for Vegas! This girl has the cutest dresses! Thank you Thank you Erika ;) After a quick catch up chat I was off to the run way show!
It was so fun. Great cause. Humbling and exciting. I would link to the web site with what it's all about but I don't know how to do that mobile style.

Did I mention the VIP transportation to Vegas? Well Dane said nothing but the very best for my Love, so I will sweep you away to Vegas in firsts class!
18 wheels, bed, flat screen, microwave, fridge, music and a handsome driver. ;) By the time he loaded up our mini transportation it was midnight.

Mood lights ;) this truck is better than some of the hotels in Vegas. Just say'n

I look like lady gaga?

We arrived in Vegas around 5 am. Parked at the finest truck stop Vegas has to offer. (is there such a thing ha!) slept till about 9 then headed to out hotel.

We made it and on to day 2!!

2011 Holiday Stats

2011-12-01T15:09:00.000-08:00

2011 for the Nelson family has been quite eventful!!

Our little miss turned 6!

Started 1st grade

Is in Girl Scouts

Still loves dogs and most all animals

She enjoys trips to Sea World and spend the night parties at her Grandparents

Is thankful for her School and Mom helping in her class

She wishes for a baby sister (or big sister)

She hopes to have a real dog someday

She is an excellent student and a kind friend

Can navigate a computer or ipad better than most adults I know

Her favorite thing is paper to write on and craft with

She loves to bake and decorate with recyclables

Her favorite show is Wild Krats and Martha Speaks

She hates wearing jeans and jackets

Wants to visit Hawaii and swim with dolphins

Enjoys antagonizing her little brother

She has been a NICE girl all year and we are so grateful for her and the JOY she brings to our family!

Our little Beau turned 2 this year and soon to be 3!

He LOVES Curious George especially the show

He likes playing games on the ipad

He is thankful for Dad's Truck

He prays every night for Dad's truck and papas truck and our garage...sometimes even thankful for our family

Very Very BUSY

Likes to have lots of things in his hands where ever he goes

He wishes he could play with the model trucks above his bed

He hopes to also have a dog someday

He enjoys "makin dinner" with mud or toys

He likes shoes and clothes that match and always must have pants on

He is quite the dancer

Cant wait till he can go to school

Enjoys Sunday school so much

He is very social and loves his friend Scarlet and Cousin Natalie

Likes to be "rock you me" before bed by Mama

Drinks juice, mootow and water all day long

He can be NAUGHTY but also can be oh so NICE. We love the silliness and smiles he brings to our family!

We are so excited for 2012 and grateful for all our blessings. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!

LOVE

The Nelson's

LOVE!

2011-11-30T12:47:00.001-08:00

Last night Dane opened up to John. We LOVE John! I also love my Bible app! Gotta love iPhones. That expression "all you need is love" came to mind while reading this. I am striving to have perfect love and love even those who hate me, Because it is commanded of me. I am also much happier regardless of how others "love" or lack there of me.

The very reasons I blog about our families struggles is to become humble, give hope, compassion, and love! It also really helps me.

I had struggled with the idea of being so open about our journey but at every turn I get confirmation of the purpose it serves. (without fear) From comments, texts, emails from those we know and do not. We appreciate the prayers and support!! I hope it continues to shed light on a difficult trial and give glory to God and his goodness.

Productivity

2011-11-29T14:04:00.001-08:00

If you have been reading my blog for some time, you might remember the desk I bought at a garage sale for 5 dollars! That was in August and its only almost December. Oh well.. It was navy blue and needed a little repair but here you have it. This little girl couldn't wait get to work or crafting.

Yesterday I was having such a downer day. I realized I hadn't been getting the exercise or nutrition I NEED! So I woke up resolved to get to the gym after a few of these....

and our reward would be smoothies if we actually made it.
There is something to say about endorphins. Ahhhhh. We made it.

My date ;)

I used to religiously consume wheatgrass. That was used to. It's been some time but in addition to getting back to the gym I am all for improving my health. Here we go...

It wasn't as bad as I remember. Did I mention I am running a half marathon in 4 days? Oh yeah! I am...haven't trained and really hadn't cared. I will pay for it after I know but oh well. I have many other races to run in my lifetime. Just think of the runner I will be now with out all that stress. Boston look out! Just kidding haha!
I started to see runners and missed it. Up until now I kinda cursed them. Sorry runners I don't know what got into me. :)

After my good start I finished our Holiday Cards. I had thought about doing an e card but I just can't! Not entirely that is. One of my favorite things is getting cards in the mail! Getting to see families grow. So I sent 20 cards to grandparents, family and some close friends.

Just imagine your address in the center if you don't get one. I will be posting our family "update" letter and more pictures that didn't make the cut on the card. I know your really excited! *sarcasm*

We might go to home depot or maybe bed bath and beyond, I don't know if we'll have time? But the rest of my day will be much more productive than yesterday.

PS. Our fish Two is even in the Christmas Spirit! We love him.

Quality over Quantity

2011-11-28T11:02:00.001-08:00

I am very blessed with a loving family. Also an ahhmazing husband...
Just to brighten my day ;)

I am also blessed with a few good friends but lately I have been struggling with the feelings over the loss of friends. Or the want for a quality friend. Or maybe its 80% of the people lost or just the principal of the loss. Or that these people don't accept me. I'm not quit sure. Maybe all of the above.

As I have been thinking more about it I valued quantity over quality. More than half the friends I had were "sometime" friends. The people you saw at parties. I had Facebook friends that always commented or liked my statuses that I never saw. I had a few friends I told some more personal things to. I appreciated those who were more intimate friends and mourn that loss. I have friends that are still in my life but are in a tough spot and can never be that close friend. Then I had friends who weren't really friends at all. The irony is I was also one of those friends. Even if the frenemies I knew accept it or not their intentions weren't in the right places either.

So the more I think about it I am starting to really appreciate the value in quality friends.
Something I herd at church brought me hope. Jesus has plans for me bigger than I could ever even imagine. Plans that will "blow my mind" He also accepts me for what my potential IS! Not for what I have done in my past. If I come to him he makes all things new. The change he has made in me I am grateful for and find comfort in. I also know I am accepted.

Have you ever known anyone that has a past? I do! These people are some of the most insightful people I know. They have been through things in there life that warrants them as knowledgeable. They have turned their troubled past to the Lord and now work in His glory.
As I was sharing my feelings with one of these women... on finding a quality friend and to make me the friend that is quality as well...she said I will defiantly be praying for that but you know Jesus wants you to be his friend. I thought yeah I know but your not understanding. I want someone who has the same interest, kids, Christian, someone who accepts me! Someone I can do the same with.
As I said that she responded with, I know what you mean and that is very important but maybe this season in your life your learning what a friend is. I agreed I have learned the importance of my relationship with my husband and family and then friends. She said maybe this season is more about learning about you and making Jesus the one you trust.

Maybe that's why all the people in my life are there but not that "close friend" role?

It's always been easy for me to make friends and I have new friends at work, church and through Callis school but not the kind I long for.

This morning all these feelings hit me hard. I have been praying for this and haven't been given an answer yet but I continue to pray.

Maybe right now I am to learn the value in a quality friend, becoming that quality friend and trusting the Lord. Letting go of those who don't accept me and those that I can't ever be friends again. Accepting the consequences and know their will be a quality friend for me. :)

Black Friday...

2011-11-26T16:10:00.001-08:00

We enjoyed Thanksgiving with my family this year. What a relaxing thankful day it was!

This is as good as it gets!

The view is amazing isn't it! On a clear night you can see all the lights and beautiful skies. It was a bit chilly.

Luke and Will cousins from Boston came out... Dane asked my sister in law how she likes the holidays in California she said it's weird seeing Santa on the lawn and it's 75 degrees, no snow. Ha!

Dad and Terri with some of the grandkids (missed you Sammy)

I am not one to usually partake in Black Friday. I loved all the online sales most. Last year I ran into Target at like 6am to get my nano but that's all. This year we headed out at 8am to Old Navy. We were shocked at how mellow it was!
Happy shoppers!

While we were out Mrs. Clause (grandma) called and told us Santa (papa) was at Temecula Motosports. He brought snow too! Since we were out we thought we would stop by.

No line for Santa and we knew the man they were sitting on. Lol

Calli walked out and said I knew who was in that costume. We just started laughing and said don't tell your brother. We told her he is a helper for Santa since he is so busy ;)

The kids had fun

I started planning my sister in law Megan's shower. It's her third baby and it's a boy! While at it I started on Cade's 3rd (sniff) birthday party. He is obsessed with all things Curious George. So you can guess the theme.

Oh we have become official eBay sellers. The eBay app is ahhhhazing! I posted something and 30mins later sold! I shipped and we are 85 dollars richer. It's kinda addicting!

We worked on home projects (pictures to come) made a costco trip (spent to much) decorated some more watched movies and have enjoyed this nice holiday weekend thus far!

My peace

2011-11-23T22:04:00.001-08:00

My Mom (starting to notice a trend that she has some great media tools!) let me borrow the book 'The Peacegiver' many months ago. About 9 months ago to be exact. It sat on my nightstand for that long. I picked it up last night and read just a few pages. I wanted to stay up and read it but I was just to tired. So I took it with me out to our picnic in the park.

A White Mocha was a must it was a little chilly ;)

The kids enjoyed a picnic lunch and play time.

I sat on the bench so sucked into this book. I would glance up to check on the kids but I really didn't want to. My eyes read as fast as they could with many interruptions.

It started to become clear to me why my Mom wanted me to read this but more important why I picked it up today!

About a week ago I had recognized I held resentment towards Dane. Although I had asked for forgiveness for my transgression I hadn't fully practiced it in my own heart. I had all intentions but my heart was still hardened. I had held onto some parts of Danes responsibility in our mess. His mistreating me. The hardening of my heart grew and bitterness, hatred, pain took over and thats what led me to feeling as if my "happiness" was justified. Not seeing my own responsibility in our marriage. My responsibly to be forgiving of him.
So just recently I not knowingly but my very way about me showed me that I still sometimes hold to that grudge. Of the mistreatment by my Husband.

I read on "Being mistreated is the most important condition of mortality, for eternity itself depends on how we view those who mistreat us."

I felt as if I was being spoken to. I had been forgiven of adultery but was harboring sin in my heart and that hasn't been forgiven since I had viewed those who mistreated me with grudges.

It was time to go home and as I stood up I looked at my kids. I looked to the sky. I felt a peace.

I have not had a time in my life when I could count the number of friends on one hand, and I now can. As part of my consequences to my actions. Yet in this moment not a friend or anything could replace the feeling of JOY I felt. I almost felt breathless.

Then on I went to read at home..
"The law of the prophets hang on the two great commandments of loving God and OTHERS because if our hearts fail to love, neither the law nor the prophets, nor anything else-including outward "righteousness"- can save us"

It became clear to me that although I had started to let go of SOME of the past I hadn't let go of all! True joy and peace can't come until then, let all go. I can literally feel the parts of me (my heart) that are free and those held captive by holding on.

I continued to read.... " when people think of the atonement, they most often think about how the Savior filled the gaps for their own sins, which he surly did. That is we are all sinners, and someone had to bridge for each of us the otherwise impassible chasm between us and eternal life that we have created through sin. So normally we think of the the atonement as something that Christ has done for us. For - ourselves.
And part of that atonement Is the idea that the Lord offers to those who have been harmed or potentially harmed by the sins of others to help and give the sustenance they need to be made whole."

Dane is also offered the gift of redemption and salvation and through my forgiveness of him I am able to receive as well. Dane is also able to forgive me so that he may be made whole.
I thought I understood forgiveness and salvation but I really didn't at all. Or I chose the parts that were easy for me to advocate. Or let go of. What hypocrisy. How sad.

"forgiveness was for the one who was forgiving, not the one who was being forgiven."

It was nap time for the kiddos and I sat and continued to read. Just as I was about half way through the book Dane came home. My heart bursting with humility and hope. I had to repent for harboring my resentment toward Dane or anyone that I felt undeserving of forgiveness.

Not even 20 mins after Dane had been home my Dad texted me.

I have had to let go and forgive my father. I thought that I had and after taking a closer look at my heart I hadn't. At that very minute of my epiphany my Dad texted me. It was my chance to let my heart fill with love and tell him. Not just because he had said it first but really tell him I love him. Even if he didn't know it I fully forgave him that minute, for taking the family I knew and thought I deserved. I cried in the relief. Dane was laying next to me asleep and I didn't want him to see me crying so I quickly composed myself.

How could I not fully see that the very way I was lead to temptation was through resentment and a hardened heart? And here I was still holding onto some of it. At risk of that happening. Maybe not to that extent but just one small thing at a time.

Then I read... "but what's false is this idea that you or I deserve that love and devotion. That somehow we truly deserve, and that's to be sent to hell. All of us. Love and salvation are gifts. How grateful we should be to receive them in any measure!
Hell is all we could hope for, if it weren't for the redeeming power of the Saviors atonement. It's only his love, offered not because we deserve it but even though we do not, that saves us."

All in the same moment I felt Joy peace and a bit of fear. I will sin again and so will those around me and this is a continual repentance and faithfulness. I thought of long distance running. I am at times sprinting a 13 mile race. Trying to get to the end and fast. How exhausting would that really be. I need to accept His grace and mercy. Find comfort in Him and let go of what he has already paid for. I cannot minimize his atonement by thinking my grudges are warranted.

Thank you Lord that you have paid this ultimate sacrifice for me
and for all so that we may return to you Lord.

I finished the book and have much more that I have learned. But in light of Thanksgiving, I am most thankful for Jesus my Savior Redeemer.

Amish Grace

2011-11-22T07:05:00.001-08:00

Some important business to take care of first. Remember that blog I told you about a Holly Experience? Well she is the author of 1000 Gifts and there is now a app for you for FREE!!! Go to your iTunes store and type in 1000 Gifts and or click on the link below to her blog! (on the blogs I love list btw if you think your blog should be on that list let me know ;)
All those silly lists of gifts and thanksgiving are inspired by this book and her blog. They work I'm telling you! It's better than a Facebook status. Haha

Now onto the next. Last night we watched a lifetime movie my Mom let us borrow. Its available in stores for about 6 bucks. The title is Amish Grace, it's based on a true story. This was the most inspirational heart wrenching movie I have seen in a Loooong time! I can not tell you enough how I wish everyone could see this movie. Its a lesson that's invaluably taught.
Calli watched it with us and she really liked it. It even opened up the start to a great conversation with her. You know the ones where you realize your children are much wiser than you give them credit for.

So please find this movie asap. You won't regret it!! It will change the way you think about forgiveness, hatred, happiness and life!

I would LOVE to hear what you think once you have seen it! :)

Ok the very last thing. I found these home decals at Dollar Tree. For a buck!! They had a few different sayings. I bought a bunch and making Christmas gifts. We had this metal sign Dane painted and distressed and slapped on the decal and BAM. A cute sign for a BUCK!

I can't wait for the rest. They will be different. Some wood. Darker colors *squeal* the possibilities.

This is also the crochet scarf I am working on. My first project aww. I can't wait to post it when I'm done! A friend had posted her cute crochet pieces on her blog (she is also selling them on her ETSY site...she is triple scoop with sprinkles on my blogs I love) my Mom also crochets. She has wanted to show me for forever so once I saw that crocheting can look so cute (not old ladyish) I thought I would give it a stab. Should have seen my Moms face when I asked her to teach me ;)

And if my page counter is correct there about 80 of you a day who read....I hope a handful of you see Amish Grace. Have a wonderful day ;)

Thanksgiving Time

2011-11-20T12:54:00.001-08:00

So much to be thankful for. So many fun and wonderful things in our life. Sometimes taking a second look at the blessing in my life make me appreciate simple gifts so so much more! I feel rich and we ain't rolling in dough ha!

Grace shown when unexpected

Surprise date nights

Cheesecake factory <3

Christmas shopping

Donuts after church

Humor and flirting

A handy hubby

Tires that get us where we want to go

Learning new things everyday

Simple thoughtfulness

New shoes

Baked treats

Giving thanks to Callis teacher

Also to friends who are so helpful

Callis writing

Making me feel so special <3

Girl scouts

Native Americans ;)

Smoothies

Piano

Crockpot cookin

Easy Christmas crafts

Pretend dogs, the best kind

Sharing and the time out timer ha!

Remembering bible stories

Home projects

Cousins

Learning how to crochet and enjoying it

Snuggle hugs before nap time

Christmas trees lit up

Enjoying the BEST Philly cheesesteak sandwich ever!

Jackets and scarves on chilly damp nights

Calendar marked with dentist and dr appt. and insurance to cover it

Countdown till Vegas

Sleep aromatherapy massage oil

Coupons

20/20 and inspiring chill giving stories

Dreaming

comments to reflect on ;)

Smiles when you have nothing else to say

Tickets for memorizing bible verses at Sunday school :)

YouTube Video

Until next time ;)

Weak to weeks

2011-11-18T00:37:00.001-08:00

The flu hit me so bad the past few days.Terrible! Horrible! That wasn't the worst part of the last few days. Nope. Its been 7 weeks since we have started things new. We were told that at 7-8 weeks would be the hardest in the grieving process or recovery. We both looked at each other and thought no way. Those first few weeks were tough. Maybe push it to the first 4 but by 7-8 we would have much more time under our belt. Not years but some time. It will be better. How could we escape what history or research shows? After the past few days we understood what they meant. The adrenaline your body releases, that flight or flight response assists you through traumatic experiences. Especially those who are blind sided by a traumatic event. But not limited to. The many stages your body and feelings go through are real. That adrenaline has slowly worn off. All the support in the world can help you through tough times. It's essential but you cannot escape your feelings. They have to get worked through. Support allows you to give yourself permission to hurt. To heal.

Each right decision we make our feelings have followed. From one transition to the next it has happened. Some transitions easier than others yet we have made it 7 weeks. It feels like much longer than 3 weeks ago I wrote where we were. Geez.
I do believe time heals things but time has moved so slow. That expression one day at a time seems so poky. I don't have time to stay in one day I'm working towards the next. I can't escape time though. :/

So the last few days were the screaming, tears and pain kind of days. It almost feels like 2 steps forward one step back. Yet we do keep making steps forward, so I don't see total loss. Actually after the last few days we are much further than we were two days earlier. All that hurt pain released. By no means better but out.

Then it's something of a miracle when we sit and pray together. Even when might not want to. We have faith that our Father is teaching us. Molding us. Building character. Also working through this without running. Running from the inevitable. Pain.

We all experience pain. We all go through our own trials. It's the process or middle that makes us stronger not the outcome right? If that's true these last few days are necessary. Some might say if you do things "right" then you can prevent yourself all this! Maybe but ...Please leave me a comment if you haven't experienced some kind of pain in your life that has either been by your own bad choices or by someone you love. (loved) or just PAIN! seeing as 50% of marriages end in divorce. I have half of you already. I also believe we are given things "trials" that change us. Some bigger than others and some have to be harder to break us.

I can't go back and change the past but I can prevent my children from experience the heartache of divorce, there future. You might think...well your only 7 weeks out. You have a life time to still fail. Well not if we have anything to do with it. Not if God has any hand in it. We made the vows. We made our decision. Not to say we won't have more trials or temptation yet we have eyes wide open. We have faith.

So these past few days wont be the last of hard days. Obviously! I am grateful for them. I know that our reward for making the right choices out of many wrong is far grater than if we gave up.

Dane was on his way home. I texted him "were not eating at home were going out and spending time together as a family" So that's exactly what we did.

Dinner at our families choice. Teasing, laughing, feeling grateful

Lots of LOVE and smiles (maybe a choke hold)

Then a little Christmas magic...snow in Temecula! We were walking through H&M when Calli yelled SNOW!

Dancing, Lights, Bright Colors

Wonder, Happiness, Innocence

Excitement

I couldn't believe the crowd for Twilight! confession: I have never seen one.

Then at home I felt like the paparazzi zoomed in on story time hehe

Don't hide from the lens it will find you!! You will learn ha!

Aren't my boys so handsome!?

Myself and this little one finished up homework and off to bed it was.

We will get through 7-8 weeks. I promise Dane and every week after that.

Calli bo bally ;)

2011-11-16T18:08:00.001-08:00

Our sweet six year old is growing in leaps and bounds. Besides how beautiful and tall she is, she is so smart! She is a level 16 in her reading program. She gets 100 percent on her spelling and math tests every week. We are so proud of her! She is now a girl scout with 3 of the girls in her class and other girls at her school. She is a great friend. Caring and loving. Always thoughtful giving them cards and crafts. ;) At play dates she is always welcomed back. I am proud when I go and help in her class. She has never had to pull her pin. Which is a wow!! She is a sweet quiet spirit and coming into her own.
We were talking about what she was thankful for. She said her school. From how the school year started to this! We are so grateful for her teacher and school!

Can she really be this tall ?!?

We love you so much Sweetie and beyond proud of you!!

The weekend

2011-11-15T12:13:00.001-08:00

Friday night ended much better than it began! With a DATE night.We went to our fav shoguns, met a fun couple at the grill. Walked around Berean book store. Watched something borrowed in the comfort of a peaceful home! The kiddos stayed at there grandparents for the night ;)

I love a good storm.

We woke up to rain but went for a run anyways. On our run it rained a lot. Haha! We made it to Starbucks got a HOT and cold drink for the walk home, which luckily was dry. Another peaceful morning. Till about 10...the the noise level of high resumed. :)

We stayed around the house. Baked, watching movies like Elf and the Santa Clause. Played with doggies and trucks.

Our first batch of pumpkin chocolate chip muffins of the season. I forgot how yummy they are!

Dane did a little grocery
shopping and lows trip. He had BBQ pork cooking in the crock pot for dinner. Mm mm

I visited with my sis and bro in-law for the afternoon. They let me borrow 23 mins in hell. Almost done...it's a good one!

Came home and cuddled on the couch for the rest of the night! Oh and Dane painted our table and it turned out great.

Sunday we went to church bright and early. Sermon was on change and it's crazy how every message we can apply to our life now.

It was also my Moms birthday. We had a Birthday/thanksgiving dinner. My sis Niki and her 4 boys were there. We all chipped in to make these cute turkeys. ;) dinner was also so delicious!!

The girls learned how to crochet :)

Happy Birthday Mom we LOVE You SO much!!!

PS
If you need a boost or feeling down, take your kids to school with makeup and real clothes on! The compliments are wonderful! I think they are just shocked to see more than work out clothes lol Better yet send a pic all done up to your hubby and you hit the jack pot!! Haha!

Thank you!!

2011-11-13T07:28:00.000-08:00

Reading today's love dare was such a testament to what Dane and I are exactly doing. Why were doing it and how much its really helping. I wanted to thank the people who are our mentors our accountability coaches. Kelly we love you so much! Pastor Mike who is a young but wise man with a marriage we look up to. Our marriage counselor. When we first had seen him we thought how can an "older" man give us anything we could work with. He would probably be out dated or not understand. The stories he shares have been invaluable. He is like our cool Grandfather with a ton of wisdom.

Our Parents. For me more specifically my Mom. For Dane his Mom and Brother. Our family. Our friends. Blogs in every direction who show hope and support. One particularly I have mentioned before. from the natos. Her last post was on .... why they still talk about the affair. Read it if you get a chance. 60% of marriages will experience infidelity and bringing this to the surface and will help those who see no end. As well as praising His glory for those who get through this disaster through Him. The books of specific steps to save our marriage. The Bible that gives the blue print from God to return to him and lead a joyous peaceful life.

Every person in our life knows what chapter we are in. It could not be a more freeing feeling. I am not embarrassed in the slightest. Pleasing people has become a lesson I have learned the hard way. I have enough respect for myself and Dane to seek all the help we need and trust that God is bigger than this mess. Bigger than what people think. We are living a real depiction of what our life is. We are not far out of one of the biggest challenges yet, but the support we have surrounded ourselves with has been the best thing we could have done.

Those who stand against us don't have any part of our life and I pray for them. Holding judgment and hatred is a prison sentence I have lived for much to long. Want to keep your self if misery, stay unforgiving and judge every person you meet. Stay dishonest in fear of what people will think and last do not trust God. Just an fyi :)

I wish I could go back to the first week, the first text messages and tell someone. I am lost. I am in a bad place. Help me. I am messed up. I felt that I didn't have one person in my life I could do this. I was to worried of what might happen or what people thought.

I am SO grateful I was caught. So that I didn't have to live that way any longer. I remember a conversation with the other man, I had said if people really knew what would happen if they went down this road they would never ever want to. It would be enough to tell someone. Its a living hell. Filled with anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Having my accountability other than Dane helps me feel safe to get any and all help I need.

Love is Accountable

Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. – Proverbs 15:22

Mighty sequoia trees tower hundreds of feet in the air and can withstand intense environmental pressures. Lightning can strike them, fierce winds can blow, and forest fires can rage around them. But the sequoia endures, standing firm, only growing stronger through the trials.

One of the secrets to the strength of this giant tree is what goes on below the surface. Unlike many trees, they reach out and interlock their roots with the sequoias around them. Each becomes empowered and reinforced by the strength of each others.

The secret to the sequoia is also the key to maintaining a strong, healthy marriage. A couple that faces problems alone is more likely to fall apart during rough times. However, the ones who interlock their lives in a network of other strong marriages radically increase their chances of surviving the fiercest of storms. It is crucial that a husband and wife pursue godly advice, healthy friendships, and experienced mentors.

Everyone needs wise counsel throughout life. Wise people constantly seek it and gladly receive it. Fools never ask for it and then ignore it when it’s given to them.

As the Bible so clearly explains, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man is he who listens to counsel” (Proverbs 12:15).

Gaining wise counsel is like having a detailed road map and a personal guide while traveling on a long, challenging journey. It can be the difference between continual success or the destruction of another marriage. It is vital that you invite strong couples to share the wisdom they have gained through their own successes and failures.

Why waste years of your life learning painful lessons when you could discover those same truths during a few hours of wise counsel? Why not cross the bridges others have built? Wisdom is more valuable than gold. Not receiving it is like letting priceless coins pass through your fingers.

Good marriage mentors warn you before you make a bad decision. They encourage you when you are ready to give up. And they cheer you on as you reach new levels of intimacy in your marriage.

Do you have an older couple or a friend or a friend of the same gender you can turn to for good advice, for prayer support, and for regular accountability checkups? Do you have someone in your life who shoots straight with you?

You and your spouse need these types of friends and mentors on a consistent basis. The Bible says, “Encourage one another day after day … so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin” (Hebrews 3:13). Too often we can isolate ourselves from others. If we are not careful, we could push away the people who love us the most.

You must guard yourself against the wrong influencers. Everyone has an opinion and some people will encourage you to act selfishly and leave your mate in order to pursue your own happiness. Be careful about listening to advice from people who don’t have a good marriage themselves.

If your marriage is hanging by a thread or already heading for a divorce, then you need to stop everything and pursue solid counseling as quickly as possible. Call a pastor, a Bible-believing counselor, or a marriage ministry today. As awkward as it may initially be to open up your life to a stranger, your marriage is worth every second spent and every sacrifice you will make for it. Even if your marriage is fairly stable, you’re in no less need of honest, open mentors – people who can put wind in your sails and make your marriage even better.

How do you pick a good mentor? You look for a person who has the kind of marriage you want. You look for a person whose heart for Christ comes first before everything else. You look for someone who doesn’t live by his or her opinions but by the unchanging Word of God. And more times than not, this person will likely be delighted you asked for help. Start praying for God to send this person into your life. Then pick a time to meet and talk.

If this doesn’t sound too important to you, it would be a good idea to ask yourself why. Do you have something to hide? Are you afraid you will be embarrassed? Do you think your marriage is exempt from needing outside help? Does diving into a river of positive influence not appeal to you? Don’t be the captain of another Titanic divorce by ignoring the warning signs around you when you could have been helped.

Here’s an important reminder from Scripture: “Each one of us will give an account of himself to God” (Romans 14:12). This appointment is unbreakable. And though we’re all ultimately responsible for the way we approach it, we can surely stand as much help as others can give. It might just be the relational influence that takes your marriage from mediocre to amazing.

Today’s Dare

Find a marriage mentor – someone who is a strong Christian and who will be honest and loving with you. If you feel that counseling is needed, then take the first step to set up an appointment. During this process, ask God to direct your decisions and discernment.

In abundance of counselors there is victory. (Proverbs 11:14)

Click here to buy a copy of The Love Dare book.

Click here for a free online journal for the full 40 day challenge.

I've seen better days

2011-11-11T16:21:00.001-08:00

Sublime anyone? Ugh. This week has seemed like an eternity!?! Everyday I felt drained, yet still moving along. I might be coming down with a cold but who has time to rest right? Right!

This morning started off with a big list of errands to get done. Target, mall, micheals, family pics, apple store so on so on. Mission Target was unsuccessful. I guess super target has it all. Regular targets not so much. After purchasing popcorn and coffee filters we were off.

Oh I have to back up. While we walked through the magic of targets doors jk we were entering target I received a message from one of my buyers. They had to cancel their purchase. This was the transaction form... You know where. One week till they had there keys to there new home and I receive a paycheck.. DONE, no more, sorry stop and do not pass go. Have to start all over. I was not so happy. I had plans for this commission. If you didn't know Christmas is coming. Also a trip planed. This money that I had worked so hard for gone. (I can find them another house but that was the furthest thing from my head.) I was so disappointed.
Our next stop was to the apple store and if you haven't had a chance to visit one, they are really neat. Sleek design, really nice calm people and super busy always. Danes phone had some issues and as we waited to get them fixed the kids played with the iPads and since they are pretty much pro on the iPad they were content. Till Cade who is still 2, is running around and his to big pants fall to his feet. Booty and junk for all to see. I was horrified. He had no control that they were a bit to big, but once he knew that he could do this you better believe he kept trying to make it do that. I took him to the car. Me upset about my deal. Cade yelling and half naked. People staring and Im sure laughing. We sulked in the car. Haha!
Dane and Calli had gotten to the car with a fixed phone, I pretty much in no mood to shop said to go home. I wasn't very nice to Dane. The more he tried to help it seemed to make it worse, till he was mad. We argued a bit. I knew I shouldn't take it out on him so I apologized.

After contacting everyone involved in the deal, I was starting to get less annoyed. I knew not to count on that money yet we were a week out, I felt pretty confident.
I went on my computer to write up a notice, forwarded some things off and the computer screen was upside down!?! Ugggh I thought great the computer is broken too. I of course am not rational at this point. The hp service line wanted 99 bucks to tell me how to flip my screen. Um no thanks. I had googled how to fix it and no luck. Dane took a stab at it and 3 key strokes later...all better. Keep calm and fix. ;)
Thank goodness. I felt pretty silly for reacting the way I had. I completed my work and moved on.
Meanwhile Dane got all our Christmas decor out. The tree is up and some garland. Yes a bit early and I used to look at others
with that same judgement you have haha! But I am excited to spend time decorating, a bit at a time and having it up longer than 4 weeks. It's a lot of work you know.
Before nap time I had opened up the Bible and just started reading. Genises and the Creation. I had hoped this would bring me perspective. Before recently I hadn't gone to anything inspirational to kick my mood. A little facebook and sulking would have been more like it. I fell asleep reading and I woke up to encouraging text messages. :)
My mood was better about the situation and I didn't want to waist a day being upset. So I resolved to being grateful for what we do have. Dane has a job that provides well and my income is extra. We are healthy and living. We are a family! So on. All the major things.

I can't believe I am going to use Greys Anatomy as a reference but I am ;) if you haven't seen the most recent episode sorry if I spoil any of it for you. Basically it starts saying sometimes we say "I've had a horrible day." that includes traffic on the way to work. Fight with your boss. Kids misbehaving. Friend drama. Then the episode depicts a real horrible day. That most couldn't imagine. Death, loss of a child, husband, even dealing with infidelity (got that one already covered) as it wasn't enough. Cancer or illness.
That is a horrible day.
Who would have thought Greys would be a reminder of my gifts from God? That actually putting my day in perspective a naked child (no big deal, in a sense he's like Adam unaware that being naked is a bad thing haha! Till Eve changed that, sorry had to ;)
Then a loss of a deal and some plans. As sucky as it is, oh well their are other deals. Nothing compared to losing my family.
I think I can change my attitude to the situation. I know I can be thankful for what I have. Yes I have had better days. Yet I have had worse and thankful I didn't have a real horrible day.

Name's

2011-11-09T11:23:00.001-08:00

I hadn't ever looked up the meaning of our families names. Besides keeping with the C theme we hadn't looked to much into it. Another blog gave me the idea. So I did....

Dane; honorable

Janelle; God is gracious

Calli; most beautiful

Cade; gentle or round (lol)

How neat is that! It also paired names that went well with the names. Danes list had Cade!! How crazy!
My Dad has always called Cade the gentle giant. :)

What does your name mean? :)

On another note it was twin day at school! ;)

The list continues

2011-11-08T12:59:00.001-08:00

The list on my note pad had filled up again so the list of things to be thankful for or gifts continues...

Rain and it's smell
Cold breeze
Asking Cade to be quiet and him responded "otay momma I be secret" melt my heart
Starbucks for 2 reasons
1. Allowing to camp out
2. Hot white mochas
Aunt Kelly and 4 hour counseling sessions
Shadows on the mountains from heavy clouds
Fresh hair cuts
Naps
Christmas count down
Shopping list
Trusting in the Lord
Feeling fearless
Down blankets
The book "Heaven is for real" and reading to the family
Callis eagerness to learn about heaven
Busted heart
Child like faith
Online bill pay
Sermons online
Calli feelin better from the flu
Childrens hymns from my childhood
Positive support system
Weddings
Dancing
fresh clean carpets
Massage

And of course these guys again :)

Had to share these cuties...

YouTube Video

Coming home...

2011-11-07T11:44:00.001-08:00

Coming home brings new meaning for both Dane and I. Happiness, joy, warmth and security... are the words that come to mind. Regardless of the type of day when we come home we feel at ease, safe.Can I tell you how good that feels? Can I tell you how much this makes our kids happier? Without you giving me permission I just did ;)
Let me also tell you how horrible it has been in our home for some time. Fighting, contention, loneliness, insecurity and fear. How can anyone live happily or securely at home with all that happening?

Well as I said, no longer the case.

I love our home. I love the fact that I get to teach and care for my kids in our home. Being a wife. I love Dane for giving me that. How could I have taken that for granted? I know how, my pride and wanting more and better became more important than the reason why I'm alive. Chasing empty counterfeit "things" to fill that empty space.
Stuff is just that stuff!! Nothing can buy happiness nor the feeling we have when we are home now. I am so grateful for these gifts. losing all the things that I thought were important in my life that aren't, has opened up room in me to bring to me the things that are. I love that!!

One night I came home to our bathroom spotless. Candles and ready for a bath. (goes without mention the bathroom didn't look like this before I left)

I hardly believed it.. Dane had worked 15 hours, put the kids down and did this for me. Just to make my list shorter. My life easier!

Still in disbelief there was a love note... Is this guy for real? I am so grateful for you Dane! This small but BIG gift to me made my night heck my week ;)

Thank you! xo

Out of all of this, I want to remember these days. These feelings are what I want to remember most.

You want what?

2011-11-05T19:45:00.001-07:00

YouTube Video

Ooooh oreo!! ;)

things to be thankful for

2011-11-03T17:49:00.000-07:00

i have been really enjoying a holy experience blog. it has made me grateful in the midst of trials. being thankful in my daily gifts, God has given me. brings joy and contentedness. to list in no particular order my daily gifts.

dane

calli

cade

laughter between friends

baths

eos lip balm

matthew west

strong enough

painting

greentea lemonade

lemon cupcake

cades "otay"

forgiveness and made new
iphone and endless apps to organize my life

our home

birthday celebrations

docusign

long drives with sleeping silent kids

my mom..i love you

planning

holidays

skype with sister

from the natos blog **love**

love dare first thing in the morning

our counselor and his wisdom

hearing from god each morning.. devotional
acts of kindness

welbuterin

my health

our babysitters ;)

my bff

provided for well

my office and tc

hope
realizations and processing
family
chick fila (some how an a jumped between my last chickafila ;)
curious george
love notes
blogging
our new routines
yummy root beer
excitement to be an aunt again
love, hugs, kisses
prayers answered
halloween candy
our new church and pastor mike

i have so much to be thankful for

So long Halloween...

2011-11-01T13:05:00.001-07:00

Halloween sadly/finally came to an end. With night after night of some sorta fall celebration we were ready to move on. Before we do I will share the end of Halloween.

The night before we went to trunk or treat at our church. They had so many things to do pony/horse rides.

I don't predict Cade being a cowboy but he did have a great time riding his pony.

Food, jumpys,face painting, dancing, and of course the trunk or treat.

Halloween morning I planned on making orange pumpkin pancakes...Calli thought doggies would be even better.

Cade and I ran some errands for our Bon fire that we planned for the night. While out shopping we saw these! Pop tart is stepping up in the flavor world. I tasted one, not bad but not my fav. I sent this pic to, two people in my life that love funfettie anything ;)

Daddy got home early and we took the kiddos to chick a fila before the party to make sure they ate. (kids also ate free ;)

Went home got the food and treats ready for family to join us while, Daddy and the kids did some carving. Kinda scary huh!

Then we waited for trick or treaters. I believe Callis favorite part of the night was giving out candy. Which is mine too ;) She made scary witch laughs as people walked by, that even scared us! Ha!

I made one of my favorites. White bean chili. My sis n law so kindly shared her recipe and it's always a HIT!! Topped with jack cheese, avocado and some chips, you have delight ;)

Cade went to about 5 houses and was perfectly content with his candy.

The adults enjoyed the fire. It was the most relaxing halloween ever. The night was cool, no breeze and perfect.

After hitting a few more houses the kids ran, really ran back home to make s'mores.

A little to far away haha!

Aunt Jen became the marshmallow cooker and Daddy became the assembler.

We chit chatted, messed around

And stayed up waay past bed time.

Which made for a quiet morning this morning!

Good Morning!

2011-10-31T09:45:00.000-07:00

Today's Love Dare was so good. Just wanted to share.

Love is Faithful

I will betroth you to Me in faithfulness. Then you will know the Lord. – Hosea 2:20

As Christians, love is the basis of our whole identity. Our spiritual rebirth came about because “God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

When asked to clarify what the greatest commandments of all were, Jesus answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart … your soul … your strength … your mind … and your neighbor as yourself” (Luke 10:27).

Our love for each other is supposed to be how people distinguish us as Christ’s disciples (John 13:35). It is the root and ground of our existence (Ephesians 3:17), meant to be expressed with passion and fervency (1 Peter 4:8). It is a quality that we are to “abound” in more and more (1 Thessalonians 3:12), always getting better at it, becoming increasingly defined by it.

So if love is what we were created to share, what do you do when your love is rejected? How do you handle it when the one to whom you’ve pledged your life stops accepting the love you’re called to give?

The account of prophet Hosea is one of the most remarkable in the Bible. Against all logic and propriety, God instructed him to marry a prostitute. He wanted Hosea’s marriage to show what Heaven’s unconditional love looks like towards us. Hosea’s union with Gomer produced three children but, as expected, this woman who had long made her living in immorality was not content to stay faithful to one man. So Hosea was left to deal with a broken heart and the shame of abandonment.

He had loved her, but she had spurned his love. They had grown close, but now she had been disloyal and adulterous, rejecting him for the lust of total strangers.

Time passed, and God spoke to Hosea again. God told him to go and reaffirm his love for this woman who had been repeatedly unfaithful. This time she had reached a new low and had to be bought off the slave block, but Hosea paid the price for her redemption and bought her home. Yes, she had treated his love with contempt. She had dealt treacherously with his heart. But he welcomed her back into his life, expressing an unconditional love.

This is a true story, but it was used as a picture of God’s love for us. He showers His favor on us without measure, though in return we often don’t pay attention. At times we have acted shamefully and deemed His love an intrusion, as if it’s keeping us from what we really want. We have rejected Him in many ways – even after receiving His gift of eternal salvation – and yet He still loves us. He still remains faithful.

Even so, His love doesn’t keep Him from calling us to account for our mistreatment of Him. We pay more of a price for our rejection than we often realize. Yet He still chooses to respond with grace and mercy. “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace” (Ephesians 1:7). In Him we have the model of what rejected love does. It stays faithful.

Jesus called us to this kind of love in the passage known as the Sermon on the Mount. He said to “love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you” (Luke 6:27-28).

"If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same" (Luke 6:32-33).

"Love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men" (Luke 6:35).

From the vantage point of the wedding altar, you would never have dreamed that the person you married might later become to you a kind of "enemy," one you would need to love as an act of almost total sacrifice. And yet far too often in marriage, the relationship does indeed dwindle down to that level. Even to the point of betrayal or, sadly, to unfaithfulness.

For many, this is the beginning of the end. Some respond by rapidly moving toward a tragic divorce. Others, more protective of their reputation than even their own happiness, decide to keep the charade going. But they have no intention of liking it--much less of loving each other again.

This is not the model, however for the follower of Christ. If love is to be like His, it must love even when its overtures are returned unwanted. And for your love to be like that, it must be His love to begin with.

You can give undeserved love to your spouse because God gave undeserved love to you--repeatedly, enduringly. Love is often expressed the most to those who deserve it the least.

Ask Him to fill you with the kind of love only He can provide, then purpose to give it to your mate in a way that reflects your gratefulness to God for loving you. That's the beauty of redeeming love. That's the power of faithfulness.

Today's Dare

Love is a choice, not a feeling. It is an initiated action, not a knee-jerk reaction. Choose today to be committed to love even if your spouse has lost most of their interest in receiving it. Say to them today in words similar to these, "I love you. Period. I choose to love you even if you don't love me in return."

I have chosen the faithful way. (Psalm 119:30)

Giddy up ;)

2011-10-30T20:07:00.001-07:00

We got a night out without kiddos...to a costume/birthday party. We went last minute so we grabbed what we had...cowboy and cowgirl ;)

Calli took a pictures of us and poor Dane always gets his head cut off :/

Here we are hat (head) and all ;) We had such a fun time!!! Family and food always makes for a fun night out. Wish I got more pictures of the crowd...the night got more interesting as it went on haha! Entertaining none the less ;)

Thank you Grandma and Papa Taylor for having the kids!

Fundamentals and learning ;)

2011-10-30T15:16:00.000-07:00

Like I had mentioned Husband and I, attend marriage counseling weekly. We really didn't know what to expect when we started. Bash Session? Childhood history? Cry fest? A blame game? It was nothing like that. We had some time alone with the counselor to say what was going on and once we were back together he gave us some homework. Husband had asked is there hope for us? Is what's happening a deal breaker? Our counselor said not at all. The deal breaker would be if once you really understood each others personalities and needs, and you chose not to accept or live with the differences.

We took a personality test. The next week we went over the different elements to our personalty. We went into some of the things that frustrated us most about each other and the things we felt were the hardest things to live with. We listened to each other. Once hearing and accepting some of these differences, we moved on. The next week, he told us our scores and what we identified the most with. It was the most hysterical thing ever. He read a description of each of us.We couldn't help but laugh as he read word for word description of us. Once we both agreed that indeed we identified with our personalities, we had the task of asking ourselves could we live with that?? Could we accept some of the things that are innately us and in our partner??

Husband and I are complete opposites. Literally....he is a feeler and I am a thinker. When opposites attract they feel completed. Then as time goes on those differences can set them apart. Unless you come to embrace the differences and appreciate your spouse for what they bring to the table. Or you will butt heads or retreat to giving up. This would also take some giving on each persons side. GIVE IN!! OK that may sound simple enough but when you have opposite personalities it is challenging. Very challenging ha!

After really understanding each other, it made it SO much more clear on how to handle the other person. For instance..If Husband were to tell me he wants me to stop using Instagram, I initially take it as he is trying to control me and I immediately resist. When his intentions are good. I can't see that, my natural responses are to push back. So instead of having argument after argument about it. He could say...Hey, I would like you to stop using Instagram and if you could think about it before we make a decision. That will give me the time to process the intentions and would make the decision, after some thought. Instead of a force. So boring huh? Haha! Yet much more peaceful. I also have to learn how to approach Husband in the same way to meet his style of communication. I am only sharing this because I felt that out of all the things we could have started with, THIS makes the most sense.

The next homework assignment was on NEEDS. We took another quiz, rated the importance of each need and went over our top needs. Once your spouse starts meeting your top needs and speaking your LOVE language, your "love bank" fills. Often times we speak our own love language. We think what makes us happy would make him/her happy. Not always the case. So our focus right now is to recognize and meet these needs and in return you will get yours met too. We are also on day 21 of the Love Dare. This too has changed us and teaching us so much about love and each other. Another great tool!! Try it with your love Start on Day 1 ;)

I had herd of all these tools before but after about two weeks of applying them, I would slowly fall back to old ways. With counseling its accountability, its teaching us to communicate. Its building our friendship and respect for each other. Each week when we go to counseling we are excited about what we will learn. Its a date we don't miss! Even if your not starting over in your marriage, I would encourage you to invest your time and money into a little counseling! Then apply it ;)

Our October

2011-10-29T08:35:00.001-07:00

Cade make pretty, with Mamas makeup!

Grammy spend the night parties :)

San Diego weekend....
Included picnic at Mission Bay

The kids were more excited to stay at the hotel than anything ha! Cade insisted on wearing his 10lb backpack ....

Sea World Trick or Treat Spooktacular

Modeling costumes ;)

Mornings with Mom...

Relaxing in buckets :)

Mickeys Halloween party at Disneyland...the kids got so much candy it was awesome!!

Pumpkin patch fun ....

Pretty Calli ;)

Play date at the splash park, 100 in October ugh!!

Scootin to school ;)

Walks to the airport cafe for the favorite....

Dog pancakes :)

Finally a cold morning!!

Family reunion with the Duval's Fall BBQ

Pretty sky on our walk...

And more walks with pretty sunsets :)

October in first Grade!!!
Calli's first spelling test 100% Yay! Goo Calli :)

Myself and another mom constructed a door for red ribbon week! We made the owls with the class....

And we made the door :) I thought it turned out cute!

Picture Day... Our cutie ;)

"turn your back on drugs" red ribbon week!

Fall Festival....
Dane and I made the banner for Callis class rooms booth :)

Whooo is ready for fun?

Calli lost her 2nd tooth ;)

Grammy pulled it!!

She asked for 5 dollars this time :)

Our favorite lately...pizzas on the BBQ

Who is this kid??? He never rests ha!

Pictures for Papa!!

Our very own....

Rides in Daddy's truck :)

Does this look like a dog to you?? Of course Calli spotted it

His obsession with manikins is kinda scaring me :/ but he insisted on a picture and posed so perfectly... Haha!

I was chosen to chaperon on a field trip to the Wild Animal Park.. This was my group ;)

We were most excited to see the brand new baby gorilla! Can you spot him crawling next to his mom?

And then standing, sooo cute!!

More baby elephants :)

We LOVE our teacher, I wish she could move up each year with Calli ha!

What a fun and long day..got our fill of animals till next year :)

Haha!

Pumpkin carving party at Mimi and Papas....

Our pumpkin :) Dane did a great job and a little nudging from aunt Megan ha!

Almost Halloween!!! :)