Of What Matters Most!

My theme for 2011 has been chosen.  I am so excited.  Thank you all for your advice and suggestions.  I did pray about each suggestion.  I really feel that this is what I need to focus on this year.  I have already shared this article with my neighbor whose husband is deployed to Iraq.  The words of this article go beyond the religion and give a roadmap for all of us to refocus our lives on the things that are important!!  I have read and reread this article.  I have picked out 12 quotes that I liked and have put them on a cutsie digital scrapbook program that I have.  I am going to focus on one each month.  I will display it in a few places in my home and am hoping that this will help me really focus on what matters the most!!  Thanks Shelby!!!  :)

 

Take a peak at January’s sign that will go up in my home. 

 

As for Winners – Random.org picked comment #3 & comment #8.  Lorraine and Melissa, I’ll get your gift cards in the mail on Monday.  Thanks to all for playing.  I fell very happy with the way that this is playing out!!  Hoping this makes for a good 2011!  I could sure use it!

HELP……….. (a giveaway!)

I need some help.  It’s getting close to the New Year, and I have no goal for 2011!
Instead of setting New Years resolutions, I set 1 goal for the year.  Something to focus on.  At times I do really good.  At others, I don’t.  But I pick up as soon as I can and continue.  This has really helped me grow.  One year I learned as much as I could about Eve.  For 2010, I decided to listen more closely to the promptings of the Spirit.  It has been an amazing year.  I was able to see the presence of the Spirit in my life.  I was feeling alone and ungrateful.  This goal has helped me take count of my blessings and be a true instrument in the Lord’s hand. 
So, I need some suggestions for 2011.  I am drawing a blank!!  So, for dropping by and giving me an idea (or two or three), I will let random.org pick 2 winners.  That’s right, 2!!  What do you win?  Well folks, here it is…..

That’s right.  2 lucky people will win a $25 each.  There is a limit to 1 entry per person per day.  Thanks in advance for your help!!!

**Edited - I forgot to put a closing date on this.  The giveaway will close 1 week from today.  That makes December 30th, midnight Alaska time the end of this giveaway!!

Showing some Military Love!

Before I get started, the winner from the Pocket Full of Posies giveaway is comment #4 - Amy Marie. I need your choice of pocket.  Let me know so I can get this out to you!!
Now, before Aaron left, we did a photoshoot with a gal that was referred to us.  Annie did an amazing job and I am so thankful for these pictures that she captured for us.  Thanks Annie.  Take a look!

Pocket Full of Posies

Have you ever struggled with dinner?  Keeping everything organized and in the right spot?  Well, I have.  Then I discovered Pocket Full of Posies!  I love their pokets.  I have most of their recipe cards as well!  I use it when I am making my freezer meals, I use it with the recipes that I am going to make for the week or for special occasions.  No last minute searching for the stinkin’ recipe!  Anyway, check it out.  And, because I love it, I am going to give one away.  (They are not sponsering this.  This is stricktly my doing). 

How do you win?  Here are the steps.  This Giveaway will end December midnight Alaska timeDecember 18th. 

1. Go check out their website.
2. Click on recipe packs and look through their list of recipes. 
3. Find one recipe that you would love to try.
4. Come back and leave a comment here letting me know which of their recipes you would like to try.

Ready?  Go! 

The winner will recieve a Mega Monthly Pocket Package with their choice of pocket design and shipping. 

Hardest. Thing. Ever.

I am removing comment moderation on this post.  I guess I need to get a journal to make it through the next 6 months.  Having said that:

The goodbye's have been said.  I have kissed him for the last time.  I am confident the kids will still wake up in the morning asking where Daddy is.  Especially Maggie.  The test, so be able to tell them that he is gone for 6 months without tears.  Without sobs.  Possessing the ability to comfort them and stay strong at the same time.  Hopefully I will be able to go through the motions.  Get the laundry and dinner done.  Do school and make it to my bed every night. 

This is by far the hardest thing I have ever done!  I already miss you Aaron!

Merry Christmas!

Photo taken November 28th.  The day after Christmas for the Lewis Family.  Merry Christmas from our home to yours.  Please, this holiday season, say a quick prayer for Aaron.  I’ll post his address soon.  I’m sure he would love letters!!

Join me in celebrating Christmas

I have followed Collette's blog for some time now.  She is doing a Christmas Advent blog.  Take a second and check it out.

Surreal….

So, my life seems surreal right now.  It is going in slow motion but is going way to fast at the same time.  It seems so strange to think that in just over a week, Aaron will be gone for 6 months.  Something about Tuesday did it for me.  He had less than 2 weeks left.  I have been super emotional since then.  Wednesday was my birthday, Thursday was Thanksgiving, yesterday was Christmas Eve and today is Christmas day.  I now understand why I am so tired!

 

I know this is late, but I have so many things to be thankful for.  At the top of my list is my Heavenly Father who is always mindful of me and my needs.  I don’t know how he does it, but he always seems to give me the strength to keep going, even when I think I am done.  A lot of unexpected things have happened lately.  But, somehow, I am able to keep my head held high and most of the time smile through it all.  Most of the time…..

Next, and a little fresh on my mind, I am SO thankful for Aaron.  He is my hero.  I must have done something very right in my life to deserve such an awesome man as him.  Don’t get me wrong, he’s not perfect :) – but – he’s perfect for me.  It’s amazing to see my love for him change and grow.  We have been together for more than 10 years now and I love him more than I ever thought possible.  I love him!  I am SO proud of him and his dedication to his patients and our country!  My heart will go with him when he leaves and I will not feel complete until he comes home.

Next, I’m so thankful for my kids.  4 sweet spirits that the Lord has trusted me to raise.  They challenge me and melt my heart daily.  I can be steaming mad one minute and so full of love and compassion the next.  There is no greater calling for me in this life than to be there mother!  I love each of them for their strengths and weaknesses.  My hope is that they grow and learn and always do what the Lord would have them do.

My family.  Blessed.  Immediate, extended and married in to!  2 very awesome parents.  My love for them has grown since leaving Utah.  I have never been more aware of the comfort, concern and love that they have for me.  Anything I ask, they will do.  I couldn’t ask for more.  2 awesome brothers.  Josh and I don’t see eye to eye on just about anything, but he is still my brother.  I hope that he will one day realize that the one thing he is looking for has been at his fingertips the whole time.  He just needs to grab it.  I love you Josh!

Justin.  He’s been gone for 23 years.  But, I feel his presence more lately than I ever have.  I know he is lifting me.  Holding me when I cry.  Smiling at me when I find the ability to laugh at myself.  I am SO grateful I am living right enough to be able to feel of his spirit when he is near.  He would have just celebrated his 32nd birthday.  I wish I could remember just 1 that I celebrated with him.  I look forward to the day when I can put my arms around him and thank him for his comfort and help in my life.

My in-laws.  It’s taken a while for us to get where we are.  But, I am very thankful for the man that they raised my husband to be.  For the grandparents that they are to our children and even though it hasn’t been easy, there has never been a time that they weren’t willing and ready to love and help us.  Please, know of my love for you.  I know I am not the easiest person to get along with, but thank you for trying.  I love Aaron and your grandchildren with all my heart.  Thank you for seeing that!

You!  Being in the military, I have met so may people that have molded and shaped me into the awesome person I am today.  My life would not be complete and full without you.  Good or bad.  Happy or sad.  Each situation, girls night out, serious discussion, gospel conversation or even cry sessions has truly blessed my life.  This Holiday season – please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.  I count myself very fortunate to be counted as your friend.  Thank you for your support and love.  Encouraging words, prayers, notes in the mail, text messages, phone calls or even the occasional package.  I know I am not the easiest person to be around, but thank you for sticking in there.  You mean more to me than you will ever know.

My one request is this:  This Holiday season, as you spend time with your family, please treasure every moment.  I would give almost anything to be able to spend the holidays with my family.  Aaron and extended.  I imagine this will be a very hard Christmas for me.  I wish I wouldn’t have taken advantage of all the previous Christmases when I was surrounded by our families.  Don’t take a single moment for granted.  Thank you for being a part of my life! 

Merry Christmas!!

What’s in a name??

I know, two posts in two days.  I must have too much time on my hands….yah right! 

A bit of background: A few weeks ago we visited Build-A-Bear.  We let the kids do the works!  Pick which ever bear they wanted (Justin picked the Star Wars bear which was the most expensive) and added an $8 sound box.  Aaron went into the bathroom and recorded our nighttime routine on each box.  While he’s gone, the kids can play his voice.  I am hoping that it is a source of comfort for them while he is gone.  Those of you who know build-a-bear, the last step is to name your bear.  The kids choose some funny names.  Maggie is the only one that needed coaxing.  Kennie’s bear is named Isaac.  (He wanted to spell it Isac until someone pointed out to him that it’s normally spelled with 2 a’s.)  Justin’s bear is named Alix.  (Notice the I.  So funny.)  Nate’s bear is Max.  He came up with it on his own.  Maggie’s bear is named Charlotte and we call her Charlie for short.  (This familiar to anyone?  That was going to be Maggie’s name until 2 months before she was born when Aaron decided to go a totally different direction.)

So, what’s in a name?  A few days after this, we were watching TV as a family and Kennie asked us how old he needed to be to change his name.  I just looked at him.  Aaron asked him why.  Kennie decided that he wants to change his name to Isaac.  I told him no.  He started crying and couldn’t stop.  “I really like name Isaac and want it to be my name.”  He went on for 15 minutes until I sent him to his room to calm down.  Seriously, the kid is only 7!!!

I HATE Running!!

I am not now nor have I ever been a runner.  Hate is a very strong word.  I get that.  Still, I HATE running.  During high school, I used my heart condition as an excuse to not run.  It worked every time!  Coaches would feel sorry for me, so I got to read a lot!  My friend, Nichole, started working out and I decided to walk on the treadmill while she was running.  One day, I wondered if I could run for 2 minutes straight.  I had never done that.  So, I did it.  Honestly, I felt like I was going to pass out.  But, I didn’t.  So, I decided to try again the next time.  I ran .25 minutes before I needed to rest.  That is where it all started.

This morning, I got up and went to the gym.  ALONE!!  For the last few weeks, I have been able to run a mile without stopping.  I usually run a 12-13 minute mile.  Then I walk for another mile.  This morning, I didn’t even look at the screen until 1.5 miles.  I had to stop then because I was pretty out of breath.  But I was awesome!  13 minutes to do 1.5 miles.  I walked the last .5 of the mile and did the stair machine for a while. 

So, my point.  I still hate running.  I don’t know if that will ever change.  However, I love the power I have gained by running.  My goal is to be able to run 2 miles in 20 minutes before Aaron comes back.  What have you taken control of?  It’s not easy, but it is empowering!  Thanks for listening.

TABOO

So, for the last few months, I have been needing to talk about this but haven’t figured out an appropriate place to do it. Aaron suggested I put it out here on the blog. So, if you don’t want to read, don’t read. This is more for me than it is for anyone else, but there is a lot that people can learn from this. I wish I knew more before having to go to the lengths I went too.


Every child is different. We all know that. But I couldn’t figure out why Nate acted so different from the other boys. It started very young. He had a serious attachment to me. Didn’t like Aaron to be very involved with him. However, he was an extremely difficult baby. Was from the moment he was born, all black from bruises. If you can imagine, it became very difficult for me. I was always tired and grouchy.

He continued to be different. Easily provoked and responded very aggressive. Without thinking, he would strike his brothers. There was no reason, and he couldn’t tell you why, he just did it. So, at his 4 year appointment, I expressed a few concerns to the doctor. He’s not potty trained and not even interested. He could care less. I couldn’t push him because if I did, he would push just as hard the other direction. Thankfully, the pediatrician had the smarts to send me elsewhere. I ended up starting at a social workers office. After a VERY bad first session, things got better. She introduced us to 1, 2, 3 Magic by Thomas W. Phelan, PhD. It’s a behavior system where you remove your emotions from discipline. It has been AWESOME for our family. Kennie has responded VERY well to it. Nate has been the slowest, but he is coming around. Slowly.


From there, we went to a psychiatrist. Nate has been diagnosed with ADHD. At first, I was very shocked and really struggled with the diagnosis. However, the more I read about the disease, the more that it sounded like Nate. Almost to a T. Relief and questions flooded my mind. It has been a rough road, but we are finally making progress. We have tried 2 different medications and found one that worked. We are now tweaking the dose a bit, but it has made a HUGE difference. I was worried it would change the Nate that we love. However, it has helped him gain the ability to not react so violently. He still hasn’t figured out what to do, but he doesn’t automatically react, which is great.

Here’s where the conversation begin. I have learned in the last few months how big of a taboo subject ADHD is. Like it’s something I gave my son. The disease would be easier to handle, if it wasn’t something I should be ashamed about. I don’t think it’s okay to just ignore it and hope he learns how to deal with it. I don’t always think that medicating is the answer either. I spent a lot of time in prayer and study about this decision. The one thing I am grateful for is that the medication doesn’t change who he is. Nate is still Nate, just a more gentle one. Everyone has always loved Nate. His voice, his manners, the way he talks and things and laughs. I didn’t want that to change. I am VERY glad it didn’t. The first medication was a terrible one. Thought I would going to lock him in his room. However, we are doing so much better on the 2nd one.


I don’t want him growing up thinking that there is something wrong with him. I don’t want people to look at him different because he has this disease. As time goes on, I believe he might be able to come off the medication and really understand and get the the root of what he can do to maintain to be the person he wants to be. That is a long time in the future, however, that is what we are working towards. I only want him to be happy.


I am not ashamed. I am not scared. i don’t care what sort of label people place on me. I would love to be able to talk to other moms about what works and what doesn’t work for their kids. I know each kid is different, but it something works, it’s worth a try, right? Anyway, thanks for listening to my rant. I am not looking for pity. I’m only looking for people to understand. I think that this label can be changed, but it is going to take people who are not scared to stand up for these little guys!


I AM NOT SCARED!!

A few thoughts….

We have been listening to the Book of Mormon Scripture Scouts.  My kids love it.  There is one song that I dread.  For several reasons.  #1 – Kennie always starts crying.  (He’s my sensitive one.).  #2 – Kennie always says this song reminds me of Papa Schwendiman.  I miss him!  Which then leads me to think of how much I miss him as well.  My thoughts then turn to my brother.  I wish I could remember the days when he was alive.  So, most of the time, we always end up in tears.  November is hard.  Especially this year.  November is the month that Papa Schwendiman died.  November is also my brother’s birthday.  Justin would be 32 this year. 

This year we are trying to get into the Christmas Spirit early.  We put up the tree last night.  All our Christmas decorations are up!  Feels very weird.  Our Christmas Day this year is the 27th of November.  Santa will come the night of the 26th.  He will bring with him Aaron’s parents and brother Dallin.  The kids don’t know about this.  SO excited to see their faces.  I don’t think I have been this excited about something in a long time. 

Loving our Discover Christmas curriculum we are using.  Making chains, rice krispie treats shaped like trees and writing a Rebus!  LOVE it!!  Maybe our Christmas Spirit will come early after all!! 

Ordered our Thanksgiving cards.  Will go in the mail next week, I still don’t have a ton of addresses. Need to get some if you want a card!

She did it!!

I’m so EXCITED!!!  She did it!!

 

So, this is what they meant?

We have all heard that every member is a missionary.  And, I have always figured that I would just lead by example.  And, it has worked so far!  :)  People ask questions.  I give answers.  I’m not your “typical” Mormon.  There were a few years that I was a “wild child.”  And people are usually thrown when they hear that.  Some even think differently of me.  We all know that I am not a shy individual.  I tend to speak my mind, especially when asked.  Plus, I believe I am quite liberal (when it comes to Mormons.  Hence, not a typical Mormon.)  So, imagine my surprise when the missionaries asked me to start attending the Gospel Principles class.  They wanted my input with the lessons.  They thought it would help the investigators. (True, you can all stop laughing now!)

Enter Brittany.  Brittany’s husband is a member, but hasn’t been active for a very long time.  She had some questions about her church and started meeting with the missionaries to get her questions answered.  She ended up at church and we sat next to each other during Gospel Principles.  The Nursery leader brought Alesandra (her 2 year old daughter) in because she wouldn’t calm down.  Sandra didn’t even want Brittany to hold her, but I handed her my phone and she climbed up on my lap.  During the rest of the class, she sat on my lap and played on my phone.  Brittany was amazed because she has never done that before.  Anyway, I followed the spirit and invited her over for dinner that night.

The missionaries caught wind that Brittany and Sandra were coming for dinner and asked if they could join us for a lesson.  (Between you and me, they just wanted my good cookin’!)  Since that time, about 4 months ago, all but 1 of Brittany’s lessons have been at our house.  Brittany and Sandra have joined our family for family home evening and we have invited them to quite a lot of things.  I really enjoy hanging around with Brittany, and I hope she feels the same.  If not, she is spending an awful lot of time with someone she doesn’t like. :)

About a month ago, her life blew up!  She didn’t know which way was up.  We spent a lot of time on the phone and I helped her work through things.  We took her out to dinner (thank you IHOP!) and just showed her that we cared.  About a week later, she called and told me that she wanted to be baptized.  Words can not express the warmth that filled my soul.  I cried.  She laughed at me, but I cried.  I have watched her endure so many things and have stood in awe of her strength and character. 

I think I know what it feels like when a mama bird watches her baby fly for the first time.  One night last week, Brittany called me and expressed discomfort with a situation she was in.  One that if you didn’t have the standards that we have, would have been normal.  She felt odd.  Out of place.  She couldn’t get out of their fast enough.  I was so pleased that I was able to tell her that the spirit was telling her that she needed to get out of that situation.  It all clicked in her head! 

Tomorrow evening, 7 pm, Brittany will be getting baptized.  I am so thankful for so many things.  It is times like this that I am thankful I have a colorful past.  I was able to share experiences that I had and mistakes that I made and help her realize that we all make mistakes, but the Lord still loves us and if we follow his steps, those mistakes can be washed away.  I am so thankful that she feels comfortable to ask my any question, no matter how weird or strange she thinks it is.  We have had quite the conversations!  :)  I am so thankful that the Lord allowed me to be part of this special time for her.  I KNOW that it wasn’t me.  I know that I just said what he wanted me to say.  I am so glad that I was the right person, at the right time in the right place and said the right thing. 

This is what they meant.  The overwhelming love that is flowing from my heart is indescribable.  Seeing her  reminds me of the love that our Father in Heaven has for us.  I hope that I can continue to be an example to her and those around me.  I hope she will always remember how excited she is tonight.  I pray that she knows of my love for her, but more importantly, that she knows of our Father in Heaven’s love for her!  I was a part of something great!!  I was so excited, that I made 3, yes 3 White Chocolate Pumpkin Cheesecakes today to share after her baptism tomorrow.  Don’t you wish you were coming?  :)  Now, off to write my talk on Baptism before MY HUSBAND COMES HOME!!!  1 hour and 44 minutes!!!  Not that I’m counting!

Winner & a Killer Recipe

Thanks to random.org, our winner is comment #3 – Alisa Wahrer.  It will be in the mail by Tuesday.  Thanks everyone for playing!  Now, are you ready for a killer recipe??

***Edited - I didn't win my cheesecake.  SUPER bummed!  Mr. Moneybags bid $155 for my cheesecake.  Wow!  Super flattered!  I got a 1 hour free massage because my dessert sold for the highest amount!  Such flattery!

White Chocolate Pumpkin Cheesecake with Pecan-Gingersnap Crust
Recipe by Our Best Bites
Crust:
1 3/4 C gingersnap crumbs (about 30 small cookies)
6T real butter, melted
3 T brown sugar
3/4 C ground pecans
Filling:
3 8oz blocks cream cheese
3/4 C canned pumpkin puree
6 oz melted white chocolate (that's about 1 C white chocolate chips)
1 C sugar
3 eggs
2 t vanilla
1/4 t nutmeg
1 1/2 t cinnamon
1/8 t cloves
Topping:
- 1 C whipping cream, beat with 1/2 tsp vanilla and 4 Tbs powdered sugar until medium peaks form.
- 1/3 C roughly chopped pecans, either toasted or caramelized
- 2 Tablespoons jarred caramel sauce
1.  Preheat oven to 350. Using 2 large pieces of heavy duty foil, securely wrap the bottom and outside of your cheesecake pan. This will prevent leaks when using the water bath.
2.  For Crust:  Use a food processor to crush gingersnaps. Then do pecans. Combine gingersnaps, pecans, brown sugar, and butter and stir well to combine. Press into a 9" spring form pan. Evenly spread across the bottom of pan and up the sides about 1 inch.
3.  With an electric mixer beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time. Add pumpkin, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves.
4.  To melt chocolate, place in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on 30 second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Set aside.  With the mixer running, slowly add in white chocolate in a steady stream (or steady blobs).  Pour mixture on top of the crust.
For water bath:
Place cheesecake pan inside of a larger pan. I use a roasting pan, like this. (and by "like this" I mean its appearance, because I most certainly did not pay $270 for mine) Place your cheesecake pan into larger pan. The larger pan should be at least 2-3 inches in depth. Place in pre-heated oven. With a kettle or pitcher filled with hot water, pour water into the larger pan about halfway up, or approximately 1 1/2 to 2 inches.  Bake for 60-75 minutes or until set. The center should be just a tad bit jiggly still. It will finish cooking while cooling.
5.  When it's done, remove from oven and place on a rack until completely cool. Place in the fridge for at least 12 hours. This is a very soft cheesecake so sufficient chilling is a must!
6.  When ready to serve spread sweetened whipped cream on top, drizzle caramel sauce over it, and sprinkle with pecans.

A few of my notes:

• I used the White Chocolate baking squares.  It takes 6 of them. 
• SERIOUSLY the best batter ever!!
• This was a lot easier of a recipe than I anticipated.  Just remember to do it the day before you need it.  Seriously, enjoy! 
• Now, I need to win this back at the auction tonight.  I am SO going to pay a lot for this!!
• If you need pictures, click on the link below the recipe name.  It will take you to their post with pictures of each step.

Lonely…

During fast & testimony meeting on Sunday, Ben (a friend of ours) got up to bare his testimony.  Something he said pierced my heart stronger than anything I can remember.  A testimony to me that the Lord does answer our prayers, but we have to be watching.  If I wasn't paying attention, I could have missed it.
He was looking at his busy schedule and was wondering how he was going to do it all alone.  It occurred to him that he wasn't alone.  We are never alone.
With Aaron getting ready to leave me and the kids for 6 months, the thought of being alone is what scared me the most.  I will be crazy busy during the day, but when the kids go to bed, and it becomes quiet at my house, that's when I am left alone with my thoughts and I can't stop thinking about how much I miss him.  How I wish I could hold his hand.  I always think of things that I need to tell him when it's too late to talk to him. 
But, I was so nicely reminded on Sunday that I am not alone.  I will ALWAYS have a companion.  Ben - straight to my heart!  Now, I'm off to sleep in my bed alone.  Some things are good about him being gone.  I get the WHOLE bed!!  :)  I love you Aaron!

What can you do in a 24 hour period? GIVEAWAY!!!

I am always getting questions on how I do all I do.  I homeschool the 2 oldest, do preschool with Nate (the 4 year old), play time with Maggie, keep the house clean, cook dinner, scrapbook, maintain 2 blogs, catch-up with friends, co-op on Fridays plan/prepare/do Activity Days, date night with Aaron, exercise and get some good old fashion quality Sassy time. 

In one word, Fly Lady.  She has saved my life.  She is all about routines.  Schedules.  A time and a place for everything.  An example of my morning routine is this:

• Get up at 7
• Make Bed
• Exercise
• Shower
• Get dressed/do hair
• Scripture Study (15 minutes)
• Eat Breakfast
• Unload Dishwasher
• Look at dinner plans for tomorrow
• start load of laundry
• Start School for boys

My Afternoon schedule is this:

• Start lunch
• Load Breakfast dishes in dishwasher
• Read Nate & Maggie a book
• Put lunch on table
• Eat lunch while 15 minute scripture study
• clean up and put lunch dishes in dishwasher
• switch over laundry
• get boys started on the afternoon work

Late afternoon schedule:

• start dinner
• fold & put away laundry
• quick toy clean-up
• run through and straighten living room
• finish school

Bedtime schedule:

• load dinner dishes in dishwasher
• clean kitchen sink
• wipe down counters
• make sure tables are wiped off
• make sure living room is still clean
• sweep under dining room table
• start dishwasher
• make sure everything is packed for the morning.
• clean face/take medicine/brush teeth
• read for 15 minutes before going to bed
• Go to bed around 10:30 (this is BIG for me!)

I have found that when I follow this routine, I am happy.  My life is organized and complete.  There are times that I rebel and I find myself starting to murmur and grumble.  When I start again, this happen to go smooth.  The kids are happy and I am fulfilled.  I know, strange how a schedule makes me feel free, but it does.

Are you surprised?  Would you like to read the book?  Well, this is your lucky day.  Leave a comment about one thing that you would include in your daily schedule.  On the 15th of October, I will use random.org to pick a comment.  That lucky winner will receive a copy of the Fly Lady book.

Priceless

No other words needed!!

Blog revamp and new pictures

We did family pictures.  Thought I would share.  Hope you like the update!

Gratitude

I’ve been thinking a lot about gratitude lately.  Must be my meds!  :)  Anyway, I read something in a book recently that I would like to share.

Fleas, God’s Secret Weapon

(Speaking of the author Corrie ten Boom who wrote The Hiding Place.)

“During World War II, Corrie and her sister Betsie had been arrested in Holland or trying to help Jews escape the Holocaust.  They ended up in Ravensbruk, one of the most infamous Nazi concentration camps. 

Living conditions were insufferable.  The women were housed like stacked cordwood on dirty, flea-infested straw that was strewn on wooden platforms.  The fleas feasted night and day until everyone was covered in itchy, raised welts. 

If it hadn’t been for their Bible and the comfort the sisters were able to take from Betsie’s readings, Corrie didn’t know how they could have survived from day to day.  If the guards ventured into the room the would have discovered the forbidden Bible.  Not only would it have been confiscated, but the consequences would have been brutal.  Over and over, the two sisters wondered over the mystery of why the guards never inspected their barracks.”

Betsie read a verse in 1 Thessalonians that said to give thanks in all circumstances.  She insisted that they do and Corrie tells the story of her sisiter praying and thanking God for many things.  From the amazing circumstance that enabled the sisters to stay together, to the bible she held in her hands, to the other women in the camp.  Betsie also thanked God for the suffocating room and the fleas.  Corrie got upset but Betsie insisted reminding Corrie that God said In all circumstances.

Come to find out, the reason the guards refused to set foot into those barracks is because of the out-of-control flea infestation.  God will provide.  He does know our needs and we just have to have faith in Him and trust in his bigger picture.

(Exerpts taken from Debbie Macomber’s book One Simple Act – Discovering the Power of Generosity.)

Nate being Nate....

At least we know he can spell his name right!

I took a piece of plastic clay
And idly fashioned it one day;
And as my fingers pressed it still,
It moved and yeilded at my will.

I came again when days were past,
The form I gave it still did last
And as my fingers pressed it still,
I could change that form no more at will.

I took a piece of living clay,
And gently formed it day by day,
And molded it with my power and art,
A young child's soft and yielding heart.

I came again when days were gone;
It was a man I looked upon,
He still that early impress bore,
And I could change it never more.

-God's Little Devotion Book for Moms

Homeschool update and a plea for information

Since we have been in the groove for 3 weeks now, I thought I would give a quick homeschooling update.  We are all still alive!  :)  It's been difficult getting a routine down, but the kids are really starting to like it.  We do Language Arts, Math, typing and Japanese everyday.  We do History on Monday and Wednesday, Science on Tuesday and Friday and Geography on Thursdays.  On Friday, we do a Christian/military Co-op that will have classes, field trips and group parties.  It's been fun getting to know these ladies and the positive effects that homeshool can have.  My patience has been tried and we are far from perfect, however, the best part of this is I am establishing a great relationship with my kids.  Instead of the constant hurray and yelling, we go at a much slower pace, actually talk about things and communicate and clean together.  It's been awesome!

The kids are flying through their lessons.  This week, I ordered the 2nd grade Language Arts for Justin because the 1st grade stuff is WAY to easy for him.  So glad I am able to see what they are doing and enjoy time with them!  My goal this week is to get to the gym to work out at least 2 days.  Do you think I can do it?

Now, for my plea - Nate has managed to somehow fry the motherboard to our computer (okay, I don't know if it's entirely his fault, but I am sure it is!)  So, I have lost ALL of our addresses.  So, could you please e-mail me or facebook message me or somehow get me your address.  I am talking everyone.  I literally have NO ONE'S addresses.  Please please please!!!  If you want a Christmas card, you need to get me your address!

Funny past moment

I was cleaning out my scrapbook closet (sigh) and found a little notebook from when I was in Utah.  A journal entry dated 12/4/05 - Kennie was playing in the basement with some friends (Brooklyn, Jasmine and Hunter).  The doorbell rang.  So, I went to see who it was and there stood a police officer.  Turns out, Kennie had found a phone and dialed 9-1-1.  Haha.  Sometimes journals are funny!

We have a winner

Pardon the construction over the next little bit.  With my awesome friend (shelby)'s help, I am giving the blog a facelift.  You might notice some changes over the next bit.  Things should resolve and be fresh again in the next few weeks!

On to the reason you are looking - we have a winner for the freezer meal book and the $25 Visa gift card.

Random.org picked comment #14 as the winner.  That would be Rachel Jenkins.  I'll get you your prize this week!  Congrats and happy freezer meal making!  It has really transformed my life!

A side note: those of you who want to do the manicotti.  This was really good.  My husband thought it was too cheesy so I am going to try to add some cooked chopped chicken and some extra spaghetti sauce on top.  Just a few extra suggestions!  Feel free to share your freezer meal recipes and experiances.  I would love to have feedback and will randomly choose comments on the blog to recieve some random prizes!

Rumor has it....

There is a few days left in the giveaway for the freezer meal book.  Go here to check out the details of how to enter.

Since it is starting to spread, I figured I would put all rumors to rest.  We have waited until we were sure it was going to happen, but it is now as official as things will be in the military until he is gone.

Aaron is deploying.  He leaves the first part of December and will spend 6 months in Afghanistan.  I know I am strong and I know I will make it through.  PLEASE don't post that.  I don't need people to pull me up right now.  I want to be mad.  I want to be in denial and just live in my little bubble!

He will need do to at least 3 weeks of training in the lower 48 and maybe 6 weeks.  If your counting, that doesn't leave much time!  :)  I am placing all my trust in my Heavenly Father and really putting my faith in his bigger picture, even though I can't see it all right now.  Christmas in this Lewis household will most likely be during Thanksgiving.  Knowing me, the kids and I will probably do school on Christmas day.  Just to keep us going.  Anyway, any prayers you might want to send our way would definitely help!  For now, I am trying to trust in His plan.  Sometimes I am successful, sometimes I am not.  Oh well!

Family Proclamation - Family Month

You can still enter the giveaway that ends on the 7th. Just go here.

I don't know if it's officially a "month" but the Proclamation to the Family is 15 years old this month. A couple of the blogs I occasionally hop to are doing a big production - go and check it out. There is never too much time spent on the family. We will be doing some of these activities in the next few months. I need to pull my family closer together! Hope you enjoy. Go here to check it out!

30,000+, Freezer meals and a giveaway

We just hit over 30,000 visitors on our blog.  We feel the love!!  So, I am going to do a give away.  Keep reading!

I have discovered the world of freezer meals.  WONDERFUL!!  I spent 3 - 4 hour sessions and have 34 freezer meals in my freezer.  (I didn't have a whole day that I could spend doing it.  It can easily be done in 1 day if you had the whole day to devote to it.  It would be better in my opinion to do it this way.) It was easier in my mind with us entering the homeschool world and talk of Aaron deploying in December.  Since I had a TON of people interested in what I did, I created a blog for freezer meals.  Check it out here.  If you have any recipes you would like to share - you can e-mail them to freezermealcrazy @ gmail dot com.  I will give credit to you! 

I used a book to figure out what I was doing.  I took a lot of my direction from this book:

Dinner is ready.  It was great.  Had some awesome points in it.  If you head over to the blog, make sure you click on the link at the top for the freezer meal basics.  So, head over and check it out!  Then, come back and leave a comment.  Tell me one thing that surprised you or one of the recipes that you would like to try.  I will pick one person who will recieve the book Dinner is Ready and a $25 visa gift card to get you started.  I will pick the winner (through random.org) on September 7th - My mom's birthday!  Good luck.  I hope this helps you as much as it helped me!

Nate is 4!!

My little man is 4.  Crazy how fast the time has flown by.  I remember moving to Ohio and being terrified.  New place and 2 months to get comfortable and turn strangers into family.  I would be leaving Kennie and Justin with people who were virtually strangers to deliver my boy!  Crazy to think back now.  I was ready to deliver by myself while Aaron stayed home with my kiddos.  However, in those 2 first months in Ohio, I was home.  My neighbors were my saving grace!  My friends at church saved me.  The Lord truly blessed my life by bringing those very special people into my life! 

Going back a little further, I will never forget going to my 20 week ultrasound.  Aaron had to work, so I took Kennie (who was almost 3)  with me.  He said he was a big enough boy to go!  So cute.  I just didn't want to be alone.  I will never forget the look on Kennie's face when the tech said that it was a boy.  Kennie screamed - "No, it's our baby sister and her name is Baby Anna!!"  He was SO mad.  His/her name was going to be Savannah Marie.  I was so sure that he was a girl.  How glad I am that I was so wrong.  What would we do without our Natey?  :) 

We would have a computer that isn't fried.  (The motherboard is currently fried.  This is after it was fixed by a friend in Ohio last year....)  Our Wii wouldn't have had to be sent off and fixed for the pirate coin that had been inserted in the slot.  He has destroyed a few cell phones, deleted a TON of saved games on the Wii and DSi, cost us a ton in diapers (and still does.....)

He also gives you this look that nothing else matters.  Yep, you know the look.  He climbs up on my lap to read me a book and just melts my heart.  The boy is going to be the scientist that discoverer's how to break into some countries secret plans and saves the world.  I just know it.

These pictures are from last summer, but he hasn't changed a bit and I just had to use them again.  Seriously, they are my favorite that I have had taken of him!!  His stats for 4 years is he is in the 50% for weight and the 25% for height.  (He has his mom's height genes.  Sorry Natey!)

My sweet boy - I Love you!!  Happy 4th birthday angel!

Could the kid get any smarter?

Any more words needed?  Love this boy!!  He looks so much older with his new glasses.  He's done everything Aaron has done and at the same age.  Only he skipped a grade earlier... :)  Let's just hope he marries someone as AWESOME as me!  ;)  What a handsome boy!

Loved this.

Had a friend share this with me. This reminded her of me. Made me laugh! Oh how true this is!! :)

Sunday morning pictures

Aaron's parents and sister are leaving Tuesday, so this morning, we went outside in our church clothes and took some pictures.  Enjoy!  Our little family is growing up!!

Family time in Whittier

Aaron's parents are here so we went down to Whittier to do a day glacier cruise.  It was super cold but it was a lot of fun.  Here are a few cute pictures.  A mass post will be coming soon.  I don't have much time now.  I've been quilting, canning and sewing.  So, watch for my catch up!

Missing Man

Well, by now most of you have probably heard about the C-17 crash at Elmendorf AFB while practicing for the Air Show.  Well, it was just a few miles from our house.  Doug, our neighbor was scheduled to on that flight, but was pulled the morning of.  This tragedy has deeply affected this community and some of our dearest friends.  Despite the crash, the Air Force decided to proceed with the Air Show.  During the time the C-17 was supposed to fly (right before the Blue Angels) they did the Missing Man formation.  I had never heard of this, but was very moved by the significance of it.

The 4 F-22's flying in formation.

One of the F-22's left the formation, the other 3 leaving their space empty.  I became emotional during this.  I didn't know any of the 4 men that were killed.  We do know people effected, but this did not effect us.  However, I really liked the symbolism in the Missing Man formation.  When someone important who "completes the formation" (if you will) is taken from you, it is hard to explain to others how there is this whole in your heart.

As we watched the F-22's circle never filling the missing spot, I could help but think how real that is.  You learn to function.  It becomes normal to see the empty space.  The empty side of the closet, the open chair at the dinner table.  However, the whole is never filled.  There will be people that come and go in my life, especially because I am military (or married military) but the role that people play in my life will never diminish.  I never thought it would be as difficult to leave a place as it was to leave Ohio.  Still, over a year in Alaska and my heart still aches.  I still feel that empty space.  Long for the game nights.  Impromptu dinners between friends houses.  Walks to lunch at the school or pool parties in the back yard.  I am gone, but have not forgotten. 

To all those who have sacrificed in any way for our freedom, I salute you.  I thank you.  Others may not understand your sacrifice, but I will be forever grateful for my freedom and my ability to raise my family knowing that I will be with them forever. 

To the 4 families who lost their dad, brother, husband, grandson or friend, my heart aches for you.  May our Lord comfort you in your time of need!

Melts.My.Heart

No other words needed.

CTMH Killer Sale

Close To My Heart has announced a Killer Sale.  In my 5 years with the company, I haven't seen anything like this.  My Stickease for $2, Level 1 paper kits, $4 and Level 2 paper kits $6.  It is only from August 4th - August 11th.  While Supplies Last.  Jump on this!!  If you are interested in a list, leave a comment or send me an e-mail!!  It's only on my website.

Breakfast Fun!!

My parents have been here since the 16th.  We have had tons of fun.  (Lots of pictures to come!)  Anyway, my dad has always been a HUGE breakfast person.  The boys LOVE "helping" him cook big breakfasts.  From omlets to eggs, bacon & hasbrowns to pancakes.  I think it's the one thing that my kids enjoy the most about my parents being here.  This mornings breakfast was just pancakes, but it was by far my favorite.  See for yourself!

If you can't see, there is a planet, moon, chicken, pig and sun.  Not pictured is the cow.  there wasn't enough room to do them all at the same time!  Thanks dad for the morning memories!!

Lipsick & Laundry.

My good friend, Brandy, has started a a blog.  So cute!  Lipstick and Laundry.  Click here to go to here blog and enter her giveaway!

I am entered!  Good luck Brandy!  Sure wish we lived closer.  Miss you crazy!

Just for the hal-i-but

It is after 1 am and I am just getting to bed.  Before I do, I want to record this.  Tomorrow will be yet another fun post and late night.  Yesterday, mom, dad and Aaron left for Kenai Alaska.  They stayed in a dinky 12 x 12 hotel room.  Drove another hour this morning and got on a boat just before 7 am.  Between the 3 of them, they brought home 74.5 pounds of Halibut and 2 lean cod!  I have just spent the last 3 hours vacuum packing Halibut.  Here are some pictures!

Mom and Dad

That's Aaron in the ghetto green shirt/jacket

Dad getting fresh with the fish!  He's the only one (besides the captain Travis) that didn't get sick.

Mom had to do it too.  She caught the biggest fish!  35 lbs!

Dad, Aaron, Travis (one of the other 2 guys) and Mom. 

74.5 pounds of halibut filets.  Filled the whole laundry basket.

Looking forward to doing the same to the salmon tomorrow and Aaron is doing a halibut charter with his family 2 weeks from tonight.  Can you say halibut?  Anyone care to share recipes?

Matchy-Matchy

I know.  My blog banner and side pictures DON'T match.  I get that.  I had to change the blog background because mine was deleted.  We are taking new pictures next week, so you'll have to stay tuned for the update

9 of the BEST years!

Aaron - I love you with ALL my heart.  Thank you for the best 9 years of my life!  The smartest decision I ever made was to say yes!!  Glad I did.

Still on vacation

{Dana, Stephanie, Me & Mom)

Although I may be back in Alaska, I still feel like I am on vacation.  My mom, dad and Luke are here for the next 2 weeks and then Aaron's parents and sister are coming.  So, you probably won't see much of me for the next 3 or 4 weeks.  everyone.  I'll have a ton of updates when we are left to ourselves again.  In the mean time, enjoy your summer!!

A Night of entertainment!

Tonight, at our Convention in D.C. we recieved some AWESOME entertainment.  Jon Schmidt performed for us.  We were in stitches.  I haven't laughed this long in SUCH a long time.  Afterwords, we bought CD's and he took pictures and signed CD's.  Here is us with him.  Left to Right is Dana, Me, Jon, Stephanie, Paulette and Steven (Cello).  The only thing that could have made this night any better is having Aaron here to share it with me!

Memorial Day Camping - Not for the week stomach

We went camping for Memorial Day with some of our friends.  First time we have really been camiping since we've been married, which is 9 years next month.  Anyway, after getting lost trying to find our party, we were greated by a fried who went looking for the bear his wife spotted not to far from camp.  He came back not 30 minutes later and said he had killed the bear.  He went and picked it up, brought it back to camp and degutted it and everything you do to a bear.  (Not my cup of tea!)

He convinced me to take a picture with him and the bear.  Seriously, thought I was going to puke!!

2 years...WOW!!

Can you believe it?  It's been 2 years since sweet crazy little Maggie was born.  

We haven't stopped moving since.  When I get to the point where I want to lock her in her room and never let her out, I just remember how I felt when we thought she had a whole in her heart and it helps.  (Kinda!)  Anyway, Here's a few things about Maggie, with a few pictures mixed in.  Some of my favorites!!

She is a Sassy little thing.  (I don't take that lightly!)

She is completly adored by her brothers. (Most of the time!)

She has her daddy wrapped so many times around her little finger!

She has her Grandpa Burnside wrapped around her other little finger! (Not enough to get him to change a diaper though!  :)

She has recently decided she needs to shed her clothing (including diaper) several times a day!

She loves anything pink, princess or doll related!

She has more clothes than her mother!

This is my FAVORITE picture of her.  So innocent!

She weighs 28.4 pounds 

She loves to watch her Pony Movie! (My little ponies!)

She adores playing with Addison!  

She is doing well in Nursery.

I could probably potty train her tomorrow.  (However, I think it's fundamentally wrong to have her potty train before Nate, so I refuse to do it.)

She wants to do anything that the boys are doing.

She has a stubborn streak like nobody's business!

She is very shy of most people.

She loves to jump on the neighbors trampoline.

And ride her bike.

She isn't scared of the jets taking off and flying close.  (We live in between the end of 2 air strips.  F-22's taking off at all times of the day.  Literally!)

She has even gotten to where she will take her nap even with them flying over all the time.

She is trying to stop taking naps.

She doesn't realize that mom is too stubborn to let her stop taking naps.

She butts heads with her mother constantly!

She likes ice cream and mac & cheese.  Her two favorite things.

She says so many words, I can't even write them.

As you can see, she is spoiled!  Happy Birthday Maggie.  We love you.  Pictures of the party will come, but I just wanted to share a bit with you now.

We Love you Maggie!!

I am Crazy!!

 After you read this post, you will be able to admit that I am certifiably crazy! 

So, I thought things were going good at the kids school.  Until the last few weeks when I found out (at Kennie's Chuck-E-Cheese party) that there has been a lot of problems with 1 boy in Kennie's class.  LOTS of problems.  He threathened to bomb the school and daily threatened to kill someone.  He's in 2nd grade.  REALLY?? 

Anyway, because of the lack of communication with me as a parent, I have decided to pull the boys out and homeschool them.  I have kind-of figured out a list of pros and cons.  Want to hear?

Pros:

• I get to develop a better relationship with my kids.  My relationship with them now is constantly strongly speaking to them and moving from one thing to another.  We never really get to enjoy and do fun things together.
• I will KNOW everything about their education.  I will be able to use every opportunity to teach them and reinforce the things we are learning.
• I get to tailor their education to their liking and let them really study those things with which they are excited about and interest in. 
• In Anchorage, there are special classes just for homeschoolers.  Swimming lesesons, science expiriments and fun lessons.  
• There is a weekly Christian group that meets and does fun learning things, goes on field trips and has fun parties.  
• The kids are learning how to do chores.  Dishes, cooking, laundry, vacuuming, bathrooms.  Ya, once I "teach" them how to do it, it might lesson my load??

Cons:

• Alone time will be very rare.  Between Aaron's work schedule and the kids schooling my time will be the one thing that is sacrificed.
• Always havng 4 little ones under my feet.  With the boys home all day now (school was out the 20th of May) Maggie has decided she doesn't want to take a nap.  Fun times for mom!

• My lack of patience is going to be a problem.  I will try to limit my Diet Coke intake.  Seriously!

The nice thing is that the Anchorage School District has a Homeschool Charter School.  I have applied and both boys have been accepted.  I recieve a $2600 credit PER CHILD to put towards Curriculum, extra curricular activities and supplies.  I have spent the last few days selecting the kids curriuclum and it has been SO FUN!  Seriously, I am so excited.  I am nervous, scared and already tired just thinking about what I am undertaking, but in my gut, I KNOW this is the best thing for my kids.  They are excited about it and about learning.  They are constantly coming up with new things they want to leaern.  So, let the craziness/fun begin.

If you have any experience with homeschooling, please share.  Like I said, I am scared.  If you have any questions, please ask.  I feel so much better about my decision to do this when I talk about it.  So, start the conversation.

Justin's Birthday

Justin's friend birthday was earlier in the month since the last day of school was near his birthday.  We didn't want to deal with confusion, so we did it early.  Justin chose to do a bowling birthday part.  Much better choice than Chuck-E-Cheese.  Seriously.  The kids all interacted and the adults got to mingle instead of making sure all the kids were okay.  Anyway, here's a few shots.

Maggie's Hair

I really struggle with Maggie's hair.  She won't keep a head band in place and her hair isn't really long enough to do anything else with it.  So, I decided to put a clip in it.  Here is what she looked like.

Isn't she adorable?  More updates on her later!

Kennie's Chuck-E-Cheese

Kennie chose Chuck-E-Cheese for his birthday party.  (NEVER again will I do this.)  He had a blast, but everyone was everywhere.  Anyway, take a look.  Can you tell he was excited?