my journey towards home

Olivia Pearl Alkire

2009-08-08T10:24:00.001-07:00

So Here she is...Olivia Pearl Alkire, born Tuesday August 4th at 3:15pm. 7lbs 9oz. 18in long.

My water broke at 5:45 am we got the kids ready and dropped them off and then headed off to the hospital. We arrived at the hospital around 7:30 am. On the way to the hospital I was having some contractions but not the strong ones, I called a few people and asked them to spread the word to pray for regular consistent contractions to start. I did not want to have pitocin this time to speed things along. Around 9:30 some friends showed up and we started walking and doing downward dogs against the wall( a yoga move). Everytime I would do one of those i would have a contraction. We walked outside and contractions were starting to pick up and get closer together. We picked some honeysuckle and during my contractions they would put it under my nose which helped me breathe deeper and longer which was really helping my contractions be effective. Some were strong and growing in intensity, I would have to stop and breathe through them. At 1:30 the nurse came in and checked me and i was at 5cm. Jim and i walked for awhile longer and i stopped at the nurses station to get some ice. While I was there she was watching me breathe through several contractions, which were pretty close together. She said since you want to get in the bath you might want to start that when you can't relax in between contractions anymore. I came back into the room and my friends started the bath for me. I got into the tub and had some time with just me and my sweet hubby listening to worship songs and breathing through some tough contractions. My friend Jan came back into the room to get something and when she saw how I was now starting to moan through my contractions she sent for the nurse. The nurse came in and said why don't we get you out of the bath and check you. As soon as I stood up I felt the pressure of her head and had one contraction after another coming soooo strong. I had a short rest between contractions long enough for my friend Jackie to dry me off and get my bottoms off of me . Another contraction my legs were buckling beneath me....Jan and Jim got me to the bed and laid me on my side. Contractions were right on top of each other her head was coming down now...I said she's coming out...the nurse said lets roll you on your back so I can check you....I said she's coming out...she checked me and told me I was at 9cm, A COMPLETE LIE(later she told me so)! She said okay I'm going to call the doctor to come. She left and while she was gone i was saying She's coming out, she's crowning...you don't understand she's coming out! All was quite in the room except for my freinds helping me breathe through the contractions. And offering words of encouragement...nurse is back says doctor is on her way. I said please she's coming out...everyone in the room could see her hair but since they didn't want her delivered without the doctor no one said anything. Finally the doctor, one big push and there was her head out, second push slow it down... shoulders...she's out! Beautiful and crying and laid on my chest for over an hour just looking around at everything. It was so amazing!! The whole day was just an complete answer to prayer, I really felt the Lord's presence throughout the whole day. It was like I felt Him go before me through each and every step of the process. What a perfect day! She is so beautiful and healthy and wonderful! Mady and Aslan are sooo in love with their baby sister.

Waiting...

2009-07-15T16:52:00.000-07:00

i sit here in waiting for my little one to arrive. The doctor has had me on bed rest for the last five weeks so I have had plenty of time to think and wonder about a lot of things. What will she look like? What kind of person will she be? How will she blend and complement this family? Perfectly I have decided. Pretty soon there will come a time when i won't remember what our family looked like without her. There are many things we are working through as a family unit both individually and collectively. But I know with her arrival all the cares will all melt away as we look and gaze and wonder at the amazment of life. And dote upon her every noise and expression and take such pleasure in wiping her bottom and in every act in coming to know her. Daddy's heart will be taken once again by this new little girl who will hold on to his pinky and calm at the sound of his voice. And Mady will get to be the little mommy she has been desiring to be for so long. Ahh remembering the moment we told her that mommy had a baby in her tummy. To all the insightful questions that have followed...God truly will give her a desire of her heart with a baby sister. I have loved every minute of her anticipated arrival. I can't wait to meet and fall in love with our new little girl ( not that i already haven't) just in a new way. We shall see her soon i hope and pray for her safe arrival in our world.

My Boys

2009-05-29T10:01:00.000-07:00

I love seeing these two together, my boys. I feel so blessed that God has given them to me. Aslan loved the fact that he and his daddy were dressed alike. And so I snapped this picture. It has been wonderful to watch their bond grow the bigger Aslan gets. May it continue to adulthood.
We are headed to beach camping this weekend so I should have some pictures to post from that I hope when I return. And I will post a belly picture soon too.

It's a....

2009-04-10T07:18:00.000-07:00

GIRL!!

We had our ultrasound two days ago, after much modesty she finally showed us the goods. Mady and Jim went with me to my appointment. During the ultrasound the technician let Mady run the machine over my belly. She was talking to her and saying "Hi Sissy!" and everytime she would say "Hi Sissy" she would punch her little arm out. Mady was so excited, we all were actually, it was quite a moment being all together. I cried when it was over because I wanted a sister for my sweet little girl so much. I love my sister so much and couldn't imagine my life without her and really wanted Mady to have theat bond. Jim didn't cry but he was disappointed a little but was happy that I was so happy and said that that made up for any feelings he was having. There is a 5% chance it is a boy with girls they never like to say 100%. So he might still be holding out hope. Thanks to everyone who has been praying for me over the past few months. We are looking forward to August and meeting our new little girl!

ps this is not picture of her just a utero picture of baby at 22 weeks.

BIG BOY TURNS 3!!

2009-03-23T09:46:00.000-07:00

Saturday my little guy turned three years old. We had a great day at the beach with friends. He really enjoys playing with these two older boys so that was sort of his present for the day to get to be with these two boys all day and play. It was such a beautiful day! When we were all leaving Aslan said in the parking lot to everyone, " Hey thanks for coming guys!" Everyone's heart melted.
It's hard for me to believe it's been three years since he came into this world. Aslan you are so full of LIFE! You love to snuggle with mommy in the mornings and love to give sweet kisses. You love playing with cars, in fact that is what I find you doing most days is making up stories in your head with your cars and trucks. Your two favorite words are ROCK n ROLL and BLASTOFF. You ususally yell one of these words and then take off running down the hall or out in the yard, or where ever you are. You like to help mommy with outside chores and love to crash into things with your plasma car, especially sissy when she is trying to ride her bike, which she doesn't think is funny, but you do, hehe. You love to be on the GO, you always ask mommy "Where we going today Mom?" I know you are going to grow up and be a great leader someday. You have so much personality and are not shy to talk to new people. I love how much you share everything you have, all the time!! In fact you have already minstered to sissy and mommy so much by your generous heart and willingness to give up what you want for others. You are always the first to say, "Here you go." Unless it's a favorite car and then it's a little tougher. Oh Bubba Duke, you bring our family so much joy, God has blessed us all so much with the gift of you. I can't wait for you to be a big brother and get to share how you see the world with the new little brother or sister. I love you so much my sweet boy!

Sunday Laundry Shirt Dress GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-03-07T20:20:00.000-08:00

Sunday Laundry Shirt Dress GIVEAWAY!!!!
i love the details in this dress...i think i still might be able to pull it off with my little prego belly:)

There is Something Cooking in There.

2009-01-12T17:05:00.000-08:00

Yes that's right everyone I am pregnant! About 10 weeks. I have been throwing up every couple of hours. And trying to stay hydrated but it all keeps coming up. Please pray for grace for me. And that I wouldn't have to go to the hospital with this one. Just trying to figure out how to still cook meals and do the laundry with barfing all over everything.

Thanksgiving

2008-12-04T09:03:00.000-08:00

This family has been such a means of grace to us since our move to San Diego. They have all been like sisters to me( well except for Mark and Caleb). I am very thankful to have friends like them to share our lives with.

Tagged

2008-11-28T13:26:00.000-08:00

I was tagged by Billie to post the 5th picture in my 5th folder on my laptop. So this is my friend Jenna and I apple picking on my 30th birthday. Not a great picture because my face is blurry but what a fun day. Okay so now i have to tag 5 people. I tag sara a, ginger, bethany, michelle and sarah g.

The Bride and the Race Car Driver

2008-11-08T14:25:00.001-08:00

End of Pro Life...

2008-11-07T13:49:00.000-08:00

So sad about this...http://www.onenewsnow.com/Perspectives/Default.aspx?id=312902

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-17T14:43:00.001-07:00

This day always sounds like such a fun experience doesn't it? Ohh the pumpkin patch, it a regular staple in the early years of raising children. Well this year Aslan being the 2 and half year old he is... I am sure I could have passed on this whole experience and maybe waited one more year but Mady's class was going and parents were required to go. So we showed up late, about 10 minutes late, the pumpkin presentation had already started. We quickly take our seats and listen to the farmer lady's talk I am thinking okay Aslan sitting still... good. As we moved from the Petting zoo to the hay ride I detected defience starting to brew up in my son. Once on board the tractor/hay ride all the little children were instructed to say hi to all the scarecrows around the pumpkin patch really loudly. As they did, Aslan starts yelling, "Stop Yelling!" After each time they say HI and wave their little arms off. Imagine with me, "HI" " Stop Yelling!" " HI!" " Stop Yelling!"etc. Thankfully as we rounded the last corner he gave up but my frail flesh was becoming annoyed with my precious little son. SO on to the Corn Maze...I thought yes I know instead of getting my son lost in the corn maze i'll go and get the stroller and contain him in there so at least I can walk around the corn maze with Mady. I come back with Aslan secured in the stroller only to find her class has already entered the maze so I am trying to huff it around the maze looking for her class. As I do the stroller keeps getting stuck in these large divets along the way so all these people keep trying to move around me while looking for their way out, comical to say the least. We made it out and I let Aslan out of the stroller so I could get the stroller out of another ditch size divet. He immediately takes off, Wheee I'm Free!! He runs around the actual pumkin patch, picking up pumpkins and then throwing them around like baseballs, he's a pretty strong boy. I am all the while looking around for Mady so I can at get a picture of her choosing her pumpkin. I finally locate Mady deep in the patch, studiously examining the hard the hard to reach pumpkins. As I am taking these photos of Mady with her pumpkin, Aslan disappears, I find him the the gift shop climbing up on the displays. Finally the wind down, snack time, and class picture shots. I was exhausted I seriously thought about putting Aslan in the car with the windows rolled down so I could enjoy some part of this day with Mady. I thought better though and just called it quits. I turned some worship music WAY up on the way home and decided that I was thankful they were strapped down and unable to get up. So enjoy these photos and know with what great pangs I went through to bring them to you. :)
Ahh the Pumpkin Patch...a little slice of reality in our blogging life.

Octoberfest

2008-10-17T14:33:00.000-07:00

This one is for you Jackie. I saw this little boy all dressed up in his Edelweiss costume and I just could take my eyes off him. He was dancing all around to the German music and making all the adults laugh. I saw him on the street after the festival and asked if I could take his picture, he happily obliged. I promised his parents I wasn't going to do anything weird with it. Does this constitue as weird? Anyhow, my newphew Christian is around the same age and I just kept thinking that this is what he would look like someday over in Germany. His dad is German and both my sister's boys are fleuent in German. It made me miss them so much. This was a great family day. The kids loved the rides they had and we loved eating saurkraut and sausage. And it was actually a cool day which is rare for October in San Diego.

Mady's First Concert

2008-10-10T13:59:00.000-07:00

Mady on the way to the concert she was so excited!

This wasn't the first time she has seen Switchfoot. But the first time she was allowed to stay up late and go to an actual venue to see them. We had great seats and had a great time. She was very excited to get to spend this special time with mommy and daddy. And of course getting to be with her bestie Lauren was a bonus! We all enjoyed every minute of it and it was so fun seeing all our old friends backstage after the show. Thanks to Drew once again for the hook up, first class all the way man.

First day of School

2008-09-22T09:20:00.000-07:00

Mady's teacher this year is Mrs.J. She loves her class and her new classroom. She loves her school and all her friends. We have been settling into our routine of school, chores and work. Some mornings have been tougher than others for me for me to get going after working but God has given so much grace. Enjoy!

Day in Balboa Park

2008-08-30T09:16:00.001-07:00

Balboa Park is an old historic park in downtown San Diego. It holds all the great museums, the zoo, and the spreckles organ pavilion( outdoor theather). It's a beautiful place to walk around and take pictures. Yesterday I took the kids down to a puppet show in the morning at the Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theather. Afterwards we had a picnic and then walked around and I took pictures of them exploring some of the art and scultptures in the park. What a lovely day to be outside, we also picniced right in a flight pattern for the San Diego Airport. Which was neat for Aslan to see these big airplanes over his head every five minutes or so. Here are some of the photos from yesterday. Anyone who comes to visit I promise to take you here, it's a great time.

Working Girl

2008-08-03T07:06:00.000-07:00

After four years of staying home with my kids I am offically going back to work. Just at night, part-time waiting tables. We just needing some extra income to pay off some bills. I didn't mind looking for a job, I thought I could maintain that for awhile... like if God happens to put a job in my lap then I'll know it's from him and I'll take it. But that doesn't happen all the time, rarely infact, you actually have to interview, fax resumes, be an active participant. So the search began, I thought about going back to work full time during the day and could make great money, but for those of you who know me know, I couldn't leave my little ones in day care. So the only other alternative was waiting tables at night, the only thing you can do that makes enough money to be worth working. I already started a job and am working three nights next week. Friday, Saturday and Sunday night...goodbye social life....hello working world. It's been hard to swallow at times, looking in the mirror before work thinking, " SO you are back here again" But God has sustained me in giving grace that is needed to realize that sometimes you have to do things you don't want to do and that those things bring him glory. Trials, struggles, and hardship enable God to be strong and for me to see that it is upon Him that I depend. This past month I have been so down and have been fighting negative thoughts, wanting to escape, longing for heaven, feeling sometimes like what's the point, but this week God again came to my rescue with this verse, "

" Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not percieve it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert" Is 43:18

This is what God is promising me right now, that he is doing a new thing, changing my heart and my mind to be like Christ, and it is a new thing. He will make a way in this wilderness and bring rivers in this desert heart of mine. Oh Lord may I declare praise to you even in my hardest moments. May it be a joy to lay down my life and my wants and preferences for your will. Be merciful Oh God, , my soul rests in you alone.

Goodbye For a Little While

2008-07-21T11:45:00.000-07:00

This week I have to say goodbye to my dear friend Carissa. She is leaving to go out to Virginia and even though it's only for a few months more than likely she will return only to marry and then be moving permanently to Virginia. These past few weeks God has tested me and been so kind as to reveal my heart in her moving away. He has shown me how I cling and hold on to things to tightly that were never "mine" to begin with. Even great realtionships that are full of fruitful fellowship and love are only a gift from him to be cherished and sometimes only given to us for a season. I want so badly for things to remain the same and my world to be comfortable but how kind is He to remind me that this is not my home. I am not meant to be comfortable here on earth and I long for heaven even more knowing that those whom I cannot be with here on earth I will be with forever in heaven. I find myself day dreaming about heaven and imagining what a wondourous place it will be. And this morning I am thanking him for the joy that is to come when I shall see him face to face and my soul shall rest and be satisfied.
So thank you Carissa for your friendship to my sweet little ones. you have been their faithful companion as much as mine. We will miss you greatly! We love you.

Catching up- Swim Lessons

2008-07-14T14:37:00.000-07:00

The summer is flying by, I can't believe it's mid- July! After our vacation with family in the Outer Banks( which was so great) we came home and started swim lessons for Mady. She went every day for two weeks and at the end was diving off the diving board and doing a spectacular doggie paddle to the side of the pool. Still working on perfecting her strokes but relieved to know if she fell into the pool she could make it to the side. These pictures were taken on the last day. Aslan also had fun making friends in the kiddie pool each day as well.

The Business of Being Born

2008-05-02T09:46:00.000-07:00

This is a must see movie for all who are thinking of having another child! It a documentary about home birth. I liked this documentary partly because it did a great job in telling both sides of the story hospital birth versus home birth. They interview lots of OB/GYN doctors as well as midwives and follow the story of several ladies in their quest to delivery naturally at home. They also do a historical overview of how our country has gotten so far away from home birth since 95% of all births used to be at home. In all the other developed countries except ours this custom is still practiced today and they have much lower infant mortality rates than the United States. Our is the second highest! Yes the statistics will blow away but more importantly I think we as women are missing out on this incredible experience. We are pushed by our culture and our insurance companies to inform us of how we should give birth. I was also deeply moved by the corelation between the oxytocin that is released in the brain( the love chemical) that you experience to it's fullest when you give birth naturally and your baby experiences it too, thus it deepens the bond that you have with your child. I would love to know if any of you out there have see this movie your thoughts and if you haven't seen it I would highly recommend that you do.

New Hair

2008-04-22T12:37:00.000-07:00

Thats right it's gone and it feels sooo good to be short! It may not seem like a big deal but i haven't had my hair short since i was pregnant with Mady five years ago. Now I have to remember to put sunscreen on the back of my neck. It's weird I've gotten sunburn there the last two days.

New Playhouse

2008-04-20T17:15:00.000-07:00

Yes for those of you who read this blog you know my love of garage sale finds. Well this weekend was one of those that usually happends once a year, like last year when I got the swing set for $20. Well this year my score of the year( well it's only April) so far was this playhouse. It happened to be on a friend of mine's street and she called me at like 6:45 a.m. to tell me to go and look at this house that was getting rid of a bunch of kids toys. I show up around 7:45 and took this baby home in her husband's pick up truck. And my bargain price for this was....FREE!! Yes that's right just needed someone to haul it away. Aslan is loving it as you can see by the picture:) Jim is like don't we have enough stuff back here. I said well it's only for a season and I want it to be a fun one:) There will be time for a beautiful yard and big people stuff for the rest of our lives but for now my backyard is built for the kids.

Blue Hands

2008-04-10T08:26:00.000-07:00

This year we had sort of a pre easter at our house. Saturday Mady's friend Lauren came over and we colored Easter eggs. They both submerged their hands in the blue dye and thought it was hysterical to have blue hands. I was a little worried after the fact, i thought they might have blue hands for Easter but turns out baking soda and water did the trick. Then we hid the eggs in the backyard and had a little easter egg hunt. I am glad we did because the next morning, Easter Morning, I was getting Mady into her Easter dress and she just said, " Mom I'm gonna throw up," which she did thankfully in the bathroom toliet and not all over her new dress. But just Aslan and I went to church because Jim was sick too. So here are the pre Easter pictures. Mom I'll put her in the new dress you got her and take some pictures another time.

Aslan is Two

2008-04-07T17:08:00.001-07:00

Yes my little boy is growing up so fast here he is on his birthday this past March. Just a couple because he was rather cranky when the day actually came around. In the morning Jim and I went into his room to wake him up so Jim could see him before work. He just said, " Go!, Go Go!" And that's how his day started and ended much the same way. This was one of the few shots I got of him smiling. He did enjoy all the cars he got as presents and exclaimed Ohhhh! as he got each one. Wish everyone could have been there.

Our Weekend

2008-03-04T14:04:00.001-08:00

Our weekend was good we took the kids down to the tide pools in La Jolla. It was Aslan's first time being able to explore, which he did to the fullest measure. He didn't quite understand that you weren't supposed swim in the little puddle of water. He was soaked head to toe, we had put rain boots on Mady so she was perfectly fine, Jim and I joked that we had put the boots on the wrong kid. Not that they would have stayed on with all of the falling. hehe. Sunday we went to the beach again after church, was a little windy, but still a good day. This weekend we are getting new carpets put in all of our bedrooms so we are going to stay with a friend a little north of here for the weekend. It's been a mixed blessing because it's kind of like moving in that everything has to come out of the rooms, but good in that it's forcing me to take stock of what I have and organize those closets and get rid of lots of stuff we don't need. Oh and I booked my tickets back to Virginia for the summer, I will be there June 11th- June 24th. We have a beach cottage in the Outer Banks for part of that time but i am excited that I get to see my dear friend Ginger's new baby! That's all for now, have a great weekend everyone.

Candles and Coldplay

2008-02-24T15:06:00.000-08:00

Last night Jim and Drew made a special Valentines dinner for Jenna and I. We dropped the kiddos at Drew's mom's house and then headed out for some shopping while the men fixed us dinner at our house. We arrived home to find candles lining the walkway as we walked in, complete with a candlelight dinner, the table was beautifully arrayed with flowers and carnation heart candies. No detail was left unturned, shrimp cocktail appetizer, ceazer salad and filet mignon with garlic mashed potatoes and grilled roasted vegtables for dinner. Oh and delicious flourless chocolate torte with vanilla ice cream for dessert. They were so sweet in praying for us and telling us how much they appreciated us. It was a very memorable night. I couldn't believe all the effort they went through for us. And even still as I am thinking about it I am just smiling and thinking.... WOW! God has truly blessed me with an amazing, thoughtful, compassionate and loving husband. This is what we came home to....

Wild Animal Park

2008-02-16T21:40:00.000-08:00

One of the great things about living in San Diego besides the weather is all of the things to do in southern california. One of which is the Wild Animal Park in Escondido. This place is about a 15 20 minute drive from my house. The park is 1,300 acres. It's so cool, you take a tram around the park and the animals are just out chilling in a a semi- normal habitat. The animals that don't get along are separated and there are different habitats for different animals to explore. The lion exhibit was by far my favorite, the two momma's in the pride just had seven cubs between them. They were asleep when we first walked up and then the BIG poppa lion woke up scratched his face and just stared at me, here is the picture, it was amazing. He didn't take his eyes off me for a couple of minutes. The elephant exhibt was also great, i love how the people are behind the fences and not the other way around. Here is Aslan and i with the elephants. I didn't get any of them in the deer petting zoo but Aslan was so cute he kept squating down to look at the deers in their eyes like he was trying to talk to them:) Lastly the kids rode the animal carosel( Aslan's first time). It was a great last day with Nana and Pop Pop, they left today. We'll miss you guys. So for any visitors to San Diego I would highly recommend a trip to the Wild Animal Park it is worth it to see some maginificant animals in their semi- natural habitat( are there palm trees in Africa?)

Before and After- Aslan 1st Haircut

2008-02-12T13:19:00.000-08:00

We finally cut Aslan's hair last night. He looks so cute, he looks like a British rock star. Jim was talking in a British accent and cracking us all up. Everytime I look at him I laugh, his hair is way too cool for a 2 year old. To get him to not freak out our friend Drew was improvising car wrecks and telling stories to distract him, it worked like a charm as you can see from his face. Thank you Jenna for cutting his hair you did an awesome job!

Before

Catching Up-Sledding in Idywild

2008-02-07T03:01:00.000-08:00

Yes don't fall down I am finally posting. Sorry it's been so long... Jim's parents actually flew out here to help take care of the kids and manage the house so I could get some rest. They have been a huge blessing and i am resting more and getting much better as a result.
These pictures are of us taking the kids up to a cabin in Idywild, CA and both of my kids saw snow for the first time. We went up with two couples from our church and had a great time. Mady was not too thrilled about wearing ski pants for the first time, inside getting dressed she kept saying how hot she was, i explained they would keep her dry and warm in the snow. When we took them out sledding for the day she was sledding on her bottom for the first half and exclaimed, "I love these sliding pants". We eventually got her and Aslan on a sled. Aslan was a little frightened so we found we just had get on the sled with him and take off immediatley. I couldn't get any pictures of his face going down but he was excited and didn't want to get off after he was done. Mady had so much fun going down with Drew and Daddy. And she of course wanted to do things by herself so there are some shots of her and her friend Lauren going down together on a mini hill. I love their faces, Mady wants to figure it out and Lauren is just laughing and having fun. We all had a great time and even though our bottoms were a little sore it was well worth it for the adventure.
" Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart" Ps 37:4 Thank you Lord for this day and this weekend, what a treasure it was to delight in all of your creation and all that you have done in our family, and what a joy it was to get to share these moments with my family and friends. I owe it all to you, and to your son, for laying his life down for me.

Health Update

2008-01-28T14:06:00.000-08:00

Well it turns out that I have pnemonia. They found a spot on my right lung, I have to go back in on Thursday and get another chest xray to see if it has gone away with the antibotics that I have been on the past week. Needless to say I have been really tired lately, even normal things make me tired. It's been diffucult to keep the kids happy they are tired of being indoors all day long, esp the little man. He's getting a little stir crazy. But God has been good to give me special time with them since I am not trying to do much. I am using the time to teach Aslan to use his words and just reading to them alot. I will keep you posted.

Prayer Request

2008-01-16T09:04:00.000-08:00

I have been really sick lately since Christmas actually, I pushed myself to get through Mady's party and now and I am just feeling completely run down. Jim is also sick today with 104 fever and had to go to work, I can't even imagine how he must be feeling. I have had every bug first sinus infection, then the cough and lung virus, and now i am pretty sure i have the stomach flu. So please pray for me that I would feel God's grace and receive God's grace for all that doesn't get done. That Jim and I would somehow get some rest today. Thank you my friends for I know I can count on your prayers.

Happy Birthday Princess Mady

2008-01-09T13:14:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday my dear sweet Madeline Susannah. Your zeal for life and giggly laughter bring such warmth to our family. I want to praise your kind and sweet spirit. The other day you asked if we could take back all of our groceries and give the money to the lady who had a sign asking for help. You amaze me with your genereous heart, time and time again, how you want to share with your bubba. How you delight in making cards and crafts for your friends and family. You are such a help to me in the kitchen putting away dishes and helping me bake. I see how much the Lord has his hand on your life even now at 4 years old. And while you are not perfect, just like mommy and daddy you are learning that you don't have to be, that Jesus was for you. I love hearing you wander though the house singing worship songs how they overflow from your heart, when you rock your baby dolls with such tenderness and sing sweetly to them. You are so witty and understand grown up jokes and you make me and Bubba laugh all day with your goofy faces. Thank you for how you love us and for always wanting to snuggle in my neck. I hope you never outgrown this but, i am sure one day you will... so i am soaking up each moment that God has blessed me with with you. I love you my Mady, may this next year of your life bring you closer to falling more in love with our God.

Here are the pictures from her Princess birthday party, all of the women and little girls dressed up like princesses. We had so much fun, it's like getting to be a kid all over again. She was so excited and blessed, and I was too. Enjoy!

Catching Up- Christmas Lights 2007

2008-01-08T18:55:00.000-08:00

Here we are looking at lights in a neighborhood called Candy Cane Lane. WE went with our neighbors from across the street. It was so incredible seeing how far people go to decorate their houses. My favorite was a house with the big cross so I included that one. I forgot to take a picture of our house which was done with white lights around the trees and framing the windows. Certainly not like Candy Cane lane but the kids really liked it. This place was great, hot chocolate every other house or so, and one house even had a karoke stand for everyone walking by to sing Christmas Carols. The last photo is of Mady singing Jingle Bells. I have been really sick lately, terrible cough and tired, plus had my parents and my friend Jenn visiting from Idaho so lots going on. I will try and post Christmas pictures tomorrow. And finish with Mady's princess birthday party which was this past weekend later this week. Enjoy.

Our First Nutcracker

2007-12-15T20:31:00.000-08:00

Today I took Madeline to the Prado Theater in Balboa Park to see our first Nutcracker ballet. We went with one of my friends, Jackie, and her two girls. Since Mady started ballet this year I wanted her to see what real ballerinas look like and to see a live ballet performance. I actually had never seen the Nutcracker myself, growing up overseas I had missed that experience, so it was a treat for the both of us. Mady really wanted to wear her ballet shoes so I let her, they didn't really match her outfit but I am actually glad she wore them, it added to our whole experience. We explained to Mady before it started that there was no talking in the ballet, just music and dancing. To which she promptly replied "I know my teacher says no talking too so I know to be quiet, but sometimes I like to talk anyway:)" We took our seats and settled in to watch the show. I loved watching Mady's face as the curtain rose, she was excited and trying to figure out what she was seeing all at the same time. I think Mady might have been a little scared when she first saw the Nutcracker but she said she really liked the pretend toys. There was of course Clara, the main part, played by an adorable girl around fourteen. The snowflake dance at the end of the first act was glorious, with snow falling down and the dancers all in white flowing this way and that, it looked like a shaken snow globe and jewelery box all in one. After the first act Mady thought it was over but we told her there was one more act to go. Then she spotted Clara who had come out into the audience during intermission. It might as well have been one of the Disney princesses, she was enthralled. I love how bold Mady is, she just walked over to her and hugged her and asked if she could take her picture with her. Then after admiring her some more she asked if she could go over and tell her that her dress was beautiful. Let's see after that there was the orchestra area down front that some of the little girls were practicing being ballerina's. Mady went down and twirled and practiced her moves and told me when she was done that she was going to be in the Nutcracker next year and that when she grew up she is going to be Clara. The second act was dazzling, the Sugar Plum Fairy radiant and all of the dancers in their toe shoes made my feet ache just watching them. I keep saying to Mady, that is really hard to do as they went up and down on their toes and spun around in circles. She seemed pretty confident that she could do the same when she was big. She didn't even laugh when the Sugar Plum Prince came out in his "tights"/ muscle leotard that when directly up his crack. She must be too young to understand modesty, I and the older girls giggled a little watching him prance around. All was seemingly going well until Mady got tired. She announced very loudly towards the middle of the second act, "Mom I am ready for this to be over now I am tired" I held in the laughter as we happened to be sitting next to Clara's grandmother. It was a great performance and I hope to add it to one of the traditions that we can do every year. Here are some photos of Mady dancing down front and of her and Clara and one of us. Thank you Lord for such a wonderful day with my sweet daughter, she is such a joy to be with.

Christmas Traditions

2007-12-12T08:45:00.000-08:00

We have a few traditions in our family, the first is that Jim reads the Christmas story from Luke to our family on Christmas Eve night. The second is that on that same night we gather the Christmas cards that have been sent to us and put them into a basket and we draw three cards and then we pray for those families/people. This year I am especially excited to share our traditions because my mom and dad are coming on Christmas Eve. Mady knows that Christmas will be here when Big Daddy and Big Mommy get here. This year I am so thankful for all that God has blessed us with but most of all for my family. The kids are so young and at times it can be so hard but it doesn't matter because God has given more than I ever deserved. So what are your Christmas traditions? I would like to hear from all of you.

It's Christmas Time

2007-12-03T09:18:00.000-08:00

Last night we went and got our tree, we got it home and unpacked the decorations and then forgot that we threw out our tree stand last year. SO I had to make an emergency run to Target, by the time I got back Aslan was too tired to help decorate(sorry buddy maybe next year). So Mady and I decorated the tree and Jim watched for a little while and then fell asleep on the couch. Then Mady and I snuggled under the tree and read a book and we both fell asleep. She is so excited for Christmas to be here. I can't really put presents for her or Aslan under the tree until right before Christmas because the temptation is too much. We started our Advent Calender it has little prayers in each box so we get to pray with her everynight, most of the prayer are about being grateful. I still haven't finished my Christmas cards need to get that going this week. Lots to do and fun to have this is one of my favorite times of the year.

Thanksgiving Weekend

2007-11-26T12:58:00.000-08:00

We spent some time with friends over the weekend. Thanksgiving we spent Thanksgiving with the Shirley's. Jim was sick though and did not come to dinner so it was just Mady and myself and Aslan came later after his nap. We did have a good time of just relaxing and dinner was delicious, but we did miss daddy being there. We went to the beach all day on Saturday and then had friends over Saturday night for game night. Sunday was church and the guys went golfing after, so Jenna and I just hung out at my house and read magazines and then had some dinner and fun with the kids. Hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving, I tried to post on Thanksgiving but our internet was not working.

Happenings

2007-11-16T22:31:00.000-08:00

Jim and I have decided to pull Mady out of her preschool. I had had some reservations since the beginning of the year after a few incindents that happened. Then last week I helped in her classrooms and afterwards I just felt a pit in my stomach all day and night. There are just a group of boys in her class that are just way out of line. They seem to really dominate the atmosphere in the class, and it makes the rest of the kids suffer. It is not a learning based preschool so the emphasis would be on the playing/creative aspect and my thought is that is if she is not being built up and encouraged as a person then why bother. Jim has been supportive and thinks that it is the best decision. I haven't told the teacher or the director of the school yet, I thought I would wait until after Thanksgiving break. I am going to just start schooling her at home and doing more crafts with her at home. I do need craft project ideas though for anyone out there reading this far!!! We will use some of the money were were spending on her school to build a craft corner in our house. I am sad that it is not going to work out however this next year of her development is so important to much to risk being feed the wrong things/ideas. I know God is sovereign on all things and that will still work all things for good in Mady's life i just feel it is too early in her life to have the discussion of pointing out differences in people with gospel in their lives and people without the gospel in their lives.

Quotes of the week:

Mady-

" Mommy I like my new Hello Pitty bandaids you got me"

Swinging on the swing out back I am explaining what the word cordinated means, I say "to have control of your body", right as I finished the words, she accidently does a backflip off the swing and lands on her back, she is crying for moment and then realizes, " That was not cordinated was it mommy" We both were crying with laughter.

" Mommy will you sit with me outside while I finish my lunch" "Sure" I reply. After I sit down She looks out at the sky for awhile and the looks at me and says,
" Mommy I love you all the way up to heaven"

Aslan-

He knows the sign langage for More and Please and Thank You. Most of his day her points to what he wants and then signs more please. He says MaMa ALOT, but everytime he says it I love it because he really doesn't say much, except NANA for banana, DADA, swng for swing,
I sing to him every night and every naptime the same song, so now when he's tired he will come up to me and hug me and start to sing the song to me:)

He loves his Sissy and loves to wrestle with her. I am so happy that she likes to wrestle too! They really make each other laugh so much and don't really fight much. I am enjoying this season with them so much.

Ballet Time

2007-11-14T08:55:00.000-08:00

Mady started a ballet/tap class this fall. She loves her teacher Miss Lisa and I love watching her in her class. This school is affiliated with the royal academy of ballet in London so they really creative methods of teaching the little ones proper form. The waiting area is small and it is especially fun keeping the little man contained, one day I 'll take a picture of what the lobby looks like when he is done.
We have been keeping busy lately, Mady keeps telling me that she wants to do home school. She can write her name and most of the alphabet. She is smart as a whip, I have to explain everything in detail. We will see about the home school, we live in one of the best public school districts in the state. We'll see what God will do when the time comes.

Our Indian and Pirate

2007-11-04T20:11:00.000-08:00

This year Mady dressed up like a little Indian and Aslan was a pirate, which was very fitting for him this year with his chipped tooth. Too bad we couldn't get him to say "Arrr". To coerce Aslan into getting a patch drawn onto his eye I did it to his Daddy first to show him it was alright to be painted. He still didn't like the idea very much so I did the best I could. We went trick or treating with our neighbors and had chili afterwards over their house. Mady and Aslan were so cute walking up to the doors together. Aslan would be so excited walking to the door and ringing the doorbell, then when someone would answer the door he would drop his candy bucket and run for my legs. We all had a really fun time... it's these little moments that make up the sweetest memories.

Fire Update

2007-10-29T09:08:00.000-07:00

We have been spending lots of time indoors as the air quality is pretty bad. When you go outside for any length of time you feel as if you have just smoked a few cigarettes( yes unfortunatley I know what this feels like). Aslan has had a bad cough over the last few days that have kept him up at night due to the air. It seems to be hitting the little ones harder than Jim and I. This picture was taken the one time I did let the kids go out so I could water the lawn, it was very dry from all the smoke. I couldn't stand to see their little faces looking so longingly at the hose so I let them out for just a few minutes. Alsan especially enjoyed holding the hose. Now having the swing set in the back yard is like having a carrot dangling in front of them every day since they can't go out and play with it. We hope and pray that this will be over soon and life can return to normal for all of us. I am headed to get some pumpkins today and let the kids paint pumpkins then maybe Jim will carve them later with the kids.

Fire Storm

2007-10-24T11:02:00.001-07:00

As most of you know we were evacuated for a couple of days from our house in San Diego. Although we are still under a mandatory evacuation from our neighborhood we are back home as of last night. The big witch fire is north of us about 8 miles and to the east of us about 10 miles. Jim and I both feel okay about being here for now, we obviously are watching the tele for updates. So far all the families in our church have been accounted for, and no one has lost their home, PRAISE GOD! A few are on the border of the fires and there is concern now about another fire north of here called the rice fire that could get homes up in north escondido. Also the fire south of here is threatening homes in east county. But as for us we are safe and are home today just cleaning up all the ash off of our back patio, spraying down all the furniture and swing set,etc. I accidently left a window open so there was ash in the house as well that I just finished cleaning up. It's pretty dirty and I constantly feel thirsty from the air quality being so poor. Thank you all for your prayers, Jim obviously is not working right now so please pray for the Lord to provide for us finiancially as there is no money coming in now or in the near future, a bit scary as the first of the month is rolling around. We are trusting in His faithfulness to us. I will keep you posted. Love to you all and am so grateful for all the calls and emails.

Mady's First Haircut

2007-10-18T19:56:00.001-07:00

Well I finally broke down and cut Madeline's hair. It was getting pretty long and stragly in the back. I just did a trim and did not do bangs or anything like that. But it has been almost 4 years. Funny to think the hairs from when she first came out of my tummy were still on her little head. She did great and was very excited as you can see from the pictures.

Birthday Dinner

2007-10-16T13:45:00.000-07:00

I got to go to dinner with my three closest friends here in San Diego. We went to this yummy Greek restaurant called Yanni's Bistro. The Lord has blessed me so much with these three ladies. Each of them ministers to me in specific ways. They are a BIg reason that my life here in San Diego is so RICH with God's love. He pours it out through them. So this picture is from the left, Jan, Michele, myself and Jenna.
Thank you friends for a wonderful evening and for giving such delightful and thoughtful gifts.

Birthday Roundup

2007-10-15T22:19:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was my birthday, no I am not saying how old I turned but let's just say my 20's are officially over. My husband and I spent the weekend together here at home while my friend Jenna blessed us with caretaking for the weekend. We spent opur time together at a leisurely pace first breakfast in Mission Beach Cafe, then we took a long drive out the I-8 turning off on to the Sunrise Highway which winds you through the moutains of San Diego to about 7,000 feet to a little town called Mt. Laguna. Every step of the way there are turnoffs so you can gaze at the valley below. On the way we listen to a book by John Piper called The Misery of Job and the Mercy of God. It is the book of Job written in poetic form by John Piper. It was so encouraging( I know you wouldn't think so by it's title) to my heart, to see all the trials that God brought to Job, how he responded in such faith and courage to bear such pain... all to know his Lord fuller and deeper.

" One year of misery, he thought, is not too long to see of heaven what I have seen, and watch the power to heal, and loving what I feel now. Unless perhaps six years have made the recollected pain to fade, and turn the memory of dread into a noble cause, and shred the fabic of reality and truth beyond identity. He looked across the fields of wheat, and endless rolling hills of sweet green pasturelands for all his herds adn flocks, and thought, " There are no words to speak the substance of my soul and joy to God, nor yet extol his worth above the vast rebirth of all my dreams. No dancing mirth can suit or satisfy the kind of tearful pleasure that I find when I recall what I have lost by his decree, and what it cost me to see my God"

And then we came here, and I came undone, and sobbed greatly, for my God has been so merciful to me. So lavish in his giving that I often take for granted his daily beckoning of my soul, his want of fellowship with me. His love and care beyond measure extended to me and my family. To consider all that God stripes me of daily are just my filthy rages, all to know my God. Lord I thank you for the daily wounds of conviction that are a stinging reminder of your love for me. Thank you for preserving my life and for the great length you go to save us and rescue us daily. God you have been so good, I bless your Holy Name!

My Little Princess

2007-10-10T13:49:00.000-07:00

I gave Mady her Dress Up Day costume a little early. The girls had so much fun on Sunday playing with them and twirling around. Sweet reminders of all that is truly important in my life. It also prompted me to think, maybe her pretend world is what is real, and the world I live in is the one that is filled with falsehood. In her world she ready's herself for a prince, dresses herself and adorns herself with jewels. Waiting in anxious anticipation for her prince. In her world he really is coming and she delights in the waiting, twirling and dancing and singing. She lives more heavenly minded than she even realizes, what an example to me to anxiously await my prince Jesus and to delight myself in him while I wait to journey back to my REAL home.

photo by carissa batten

My Week

2007-10-08T13:34:00.001-07:00

Last week was one of those weeks that I look back on and breath a sigh of relief that it is over. I am thankful that nothing serious happened however it was a rough one to walk through. Saturday Mady slipped off the counter and split her lip, lots of blood and crying, then after church the next day she started throwing up on me, the floor, turns out it was just the beginnings of a bad cold. Next day she opened the TV cabinet on Aslan's face and chipped his front tooth. He looks like a little redneck now. That same night as Mady was geting undressed for the bath I was wiping up popcicle off the floor and bending down right abover her. When she stood up she smashed into my eye with the back of her head. Lots of blood, lots of crying from myself, Aslan, and Mady just shell shocked saying, "I'm sorry mommy, i'm sorry mommy" over and over again. When the smoke cleared I had sustained a significant gash over my right eye, and had to go to Urgent Care and get a few stiches.

So Thursday I took Aslan to the dentist to make sure there wasn't any damage to the nerve. Oh boy, picture just for a moment a high energy 18 month in a confined space. Oh my goodness was that fun, he was pulling out toothbrushes, floride packets and floss from all of the drawers. Spraying himself with water from the metal tools that are connected to that silver tray that slides over you in the chair. Running up and down the aisle that all the chairs were in, pulling down everything within in reach along the way. I loved how when the dentist finally came in to give my the prognosis he just causually sits there with his legs crossed trying to show the xray. I am trying my best to listen to what he is saying as my 1 and half year old is vandolizing his office, smiling and all the while, I'm thinking will you please get to the point before he does permanent damage to himself. I love how naive most people are to an energetic toddler. The good news is he is fine just going to have a slightly crooked smile for the next 5 years or so.

Our weekend was much quieter, I got my hair done, and Sunday we had a bunch of people over after church who hung out all afternoon and evening. It was great!~ So that's why I haven't posted in a little bit, life has been full of constant surprises and reminders of God's sense of humor.

Things I Love About Fall

2007-10-01T14:24:00.001-07:00

* the leaves changing
* apple pickin
* biting into a freshly picked apple
* the smell of baking apples
* closing my eyes and listening to the leaves rustling in the trees
* the cool breeze on my face
* scarves
* making Fall Crafts with my sweet daughter and her friends
* apple cider
* the warmth of a HUG on a crisp day
* the radiant blue sky on a crisp day
* hiking to the top of a mountain and seeing the canvas of God rich with color
* planting bulbs
* playing in piles of leaves
* the sound of fallen leaves beneath my feet
* leaf angels
* thanksgiving
* going to a high school football game
* my fall table cloth I made in 2003
* berry bouquets on my table
* reflecting on change and how God creates such beauty through change, and welcoming it as I do this season... it is always a reminder of God's faithfulness.

May you enjoy this season.

Mady's First Day of PreSchool

2007-09-21T11:57:00.001-07:00

A little late on this post, she started right when we got back from Georgia and Virginia. She loves her new class and new teacher Miss Cullison.

Lifehouse's Everything Skit

2007-09-19T16:19:00.001-07:00

Amazing

Aunt Jackie's House

2007-09-13T15:03:00.000-07:00

1st - Mady helping to make Noah's birthday cake with Aunt Jackie

2nd - Mady splashing Aunt Jackie with cake batter, very funny!

3rd- Aslan and Big Daddy

4th- I just love his face in this picture

Surprise

2007-09-10T14:21:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago I went on a surprise trip visit to see my sister in Georgia. I just couldn't let the season of fresh zeal, grace and newfound joy in our Savior go by without being there to drink deeply of his love. She had no idea I was coming, I took a shuttle from the Atlanta airport to the town she lives in. When I arrived she wasn't there, she was actually at a dinner at the church. Mady came out from the bushes to say "surprise" when she got home, she was SO EXCITED to see us. From the moment I arrived I could sense the Lord's spirit in her home. Her usual reactions to things were markable different, with her children, her husband, and with life's interuptions to " our plans" for the day. The Lord's peace had come and rested her soul. She was joyous and excited, and so grateful for the books that I had brought with me to give to her. One of which was the Jesus Storybook Bible that I gave to her two sons. She was so gleeful in exclaiming to her oldest son, " Look Christian now Mommy can read to you and teach you about Jesus."

The best moment came though when we went to church together on Sunday. I watched my sister take communion as a believer and follower of Christ. Tears of joy and thankfulness streamed down both of our faces. To partake together in the Lord's supper... to hug her and hold her hand, and look into her eyes, what a blessing beyond measure. Worshiping beside her, and knowing deep in my heart that this is how we would spend eternity, worshiping our God together. God is so good, he is so faithful.

I didn't get a picture with her on my camera but I know she took one on her's so hopefully I will get to post it if she sends it to me. But I do have some others of the kids playing together and making Noah's birthday cake. Oh yes it was my newphew's 2nd birthday while we were there, as if we needed more reasons to celebrate! So I will post some pictures tomorrow. Thanks to all who prayed for me and my sister's time together, it was so very sweet.

New Swing Set

2007-08-27T15:28:00.000-07:00

So most of you know how much I love garage sales and finding bargains. This past weekend we were on our way to a birthday party and I just had to stop at this church rummage sale near our house. As we got out of the car, Mady said mommy this isn't the party is it? I said no mommy just wants to stop here for just a second. ( I think this is going to be one of those things that my kids remember as they get older, mommy dragging them to her sales). Anyhow I have been looking for months on craigslist and sailing around and finally I spotted it outside all taken apart. A BRAND NEW SWING SET! It was all taken apart, I had the man working the sale show me how it went together. Then lady who decides the prices came out to tell me that everything was drastically reduced prices. Apparently the sale had been going for two days and they were about to close in thirty minutes. So I got this brand new swing set with slide and playhouse underneath it for $ 20.00 plus she threw the picnic table and matching sand box with lid that matched the set I had just bought. It's so cute the little table even has an umbrella that goes through the table for shade. The kids love it, they played with it in the dark the other night. Mady is telling everyone that she has a park at her house. Thank you Lord for providing such a wonderful gift for my kids, my children's friends, and all the neighborhood kids. And for making our home a place where laughter and the joys of childhood can be expressed to their fullest.

Lord I Praise You

2007-08-20T22:59:00.000-07:00

Today the Lord answered one of the deepest prayers of my heart, my dear sister Jackie, surrendered her life to Jesus Christ. Words cannot even express the overflowing joy that I feel in the depths of my soul. Jackie Jeanne, your name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life!! Thank you Lord for your Spirit revealing yourself to her, for lifting the veil over her eyes, for her being, " a new creation in Christ, behold a new thing has come and the old has passed away" Thank you Lord for your gift of salvation that you offer freely to those who will respond to your call. She told me this morning on the phone, that she finally realized that nothing could bring her happiness or fill the emptiness in her heart, not her kids, her husband, her house, or her friends, nothing... but Jesus Christ!!! She wants and earnestly desires a personal realtionship with Jesus Christ, my heart leap inside my chest, I could hardly contain myself as tears streamed down my face. I prayed with her and listened to her speak about her excitment and new found joy in pursuing her Savior.
So today has been one of the best days of my life. I can honestly say I have not prayed for anyone's salvation more than my sister's. I listened to her testimony and heard the Lord answer specific things I had prayed for over the years. Today I am thanking the Lord for his faithfulness, his mercy, his loving kindness, and most of all for his precious Son, Jesus Christ, who is the Lord of my life and is now the Lord of my dear sister's as well. I love you my sweet sister, and I look forward to spending eternity with you laughing and singing to our God.

How can I thank you oh Lord
For calling me to you
For letting me hear you
For opening my eyes to the gospel...
As long as I have breath I will praise you
As long as my heart beats I will sing
As long as life flows in my veins
I WILL BLESS YOUR NAME!!!

Blog Help

2007-08-12T20:29:00.001-07:00

Can someone help me figure out how to post a picture under my profile and put a picture behind my blog title. I can't seem to figure it out. I tried to reduce the file size of my photos and it still didn't work. So if anyone else out there could explain it to my I would be greatly obliged.

Del Mar Fair

2007-08-09T08:21:00.000-07:00

Every year we go to the Del Mar Fair, it is quite a highlight for me and the kids. This year Mady rode her first roller coaster, she was sreeking with delight. I wish I had brought my camera on the ride, her face was a mixture of freedom and pure horror. Here is Mady riding the horses, this is all she talked about from the moment we told her we were going to the Fair. I want to ride the horses, i want to ride the horses. So here she is riding the horses. We love her thankful and joyful heart, after the ride was over instead of asking to go again over and over, she thanked us over and over again, praise you Lord for your Spirit at work in her life. She is a gift beyond measure.

My Big Boy

2007-08-01T18:52:00.001-07:00

Here is Aslan taken just a few nights ago, he and Mady went to hang out with my friend Carissa and she took this picture of him. She really captured a part of his personality in this photo, one that is content and needs no expression, only a look. One that says I've been around the world and this is where I want to be.

DISNEYLAND SURPRISE

2007-07-30T12:28:00.000-07:00

Mady and I had to go see her nutritionist up in LA, gosh it's almost been a month ago. Anyhow, the visit went well, mostly ALL of the damages from the antibotics she was on have been cleared up. She is doing much better overall and still has been infection free since she started the supplements with no antibotics, PRAISE GOD! Well when we finished the doctors appointment it was like 10:30 in the morning and I called Jim and he said to take her and do something special with her. I had been promising to take her to Disneyland when she was finished with drinking all her smoothies. So... I surprised her and we wnt to DISNEYLAND for a Mommy, daughter day. I didn't tell her until we were in the parking lot. We were riding on the tram over to the park, and she just keep looking at me saying, " Mommy are we really going to DISNEYLAND!" When she saw the entrance to the park, SHe was floored with excitment, "Mommy we are here!", her next thought turned towards the princesses, " Do you think I'll meet Cinderella this time?" Well... let's just say dreams do come true at Disney... it was such an awesome gift to get to spend the day with my little princess.

2007-07-07T10:50:00.000-07:00

Anyone want to join me? This is an annual bluegrass festival at the end of August. This will be my first year going but from the pictures it looks like a great family festival atmosphere. Mady and I are going to kick up our heels and we invite all our friends to come along and dance the day away with us!

Alkire Family Photo

2007-07-02T13:30:00.000-07:00

Here is Jim's side of the family, Jim's sister Beth with her husband Matt, and her three kids, Jeremy, Josh and Katilyn. Jim's parents and us with our little ones. It was really great to spend time with them and get to know them better. I feel so blessed to be a part of such a great group of folks. Thanks Beth for being so loving with my Mady and Aslan. And Katilyn, for playing and doing crafts with Mady and for just letting her hang out with you. She really loved being with you, you are a wonderful young lady and I can't wait to see how you will blosom in the years to come. And Matt, thanks for all of your hard work with the party, you did all the man chores I asked of you without complaining, I can see God's mark of humility on your life. And of course Mom and Dad, it was so good to see you and just be with you guys, and thanks for all the toys for the kids. Let's do it again next year!!

50 Years

2007-06-23T14:51:00.001-07:00

My husbands parents celebrated their 5oth wedding anniversary while we were back east. Actually that is the main reason that we went home was to throw them a party to celebrate. The whole day was such a blessing from start to finish. We had a big white catering tent sent up, we hired a bluegrass band, it was catered to make life easy for us. We had all the white lights and white linens on the round tables with colorful centerpieces and candles. They were calling for thunderstorms that evening, around 2 o'clock we heard a rumble and Beth(Jim's sister) and I prayed aloud as we heard it rumble. And God heard our prayers, it turned out to be a beautiful night. Everything went so smoothly... the best part of the night was when Jim's parents got up and honored each other. Their words were so sweet and heart felt, and so full of the gospel. God's grace is truly sufficient, he is so faithful to give them such a loving marriage. I am a beneficiary of their love for the Lord and their love for each other. I get to spend my life with their son and get to receive their input and wisdom passed to him. I am so grateful for them and for raising their son to be a man of God. Here are some pictures of Jim's parents dancing the night away... I loved watching them enjoy themselves, they are so cute!

Cousins

2007-06-21T09:04:00.000-07:00

How sweet it is to be joined to another by blood. There is a sense of sameness, it brings a closness that cannot be found with others. The feeling that you are chosen to be a part of this family and no other. You don't need time to warm up to each other, you don't feel the need to hide who you are, you just are who you are and you are loved for that person. Such is the case with Mady and Christian, here they are enjoying their time together. Parting is such sweet sorrow....

Happy Father's Day

2007-06-18T13:46:00.000-07:00

To our Daddy,

There are many moments that make up a lifetime but only a few that make up a childhood. Thank you Daddy for always being just as excited to see us as we are to see you at the end of the day. Thank you Daddy for being a man who's heart is for the Lord, who leads us to a knowledge of our Savior. Thank you Daddy that His spirit that was placed in you draws all of our hearts closer to him by your example. Thank you Daddy for working so hard for our family. Thank you daddy that our family comes first in your life. Thank you daddy for playing superman, pillow time, Ready Set Go, Chase around the patio, and for teaching me how to ride a bike. Thank you Daddy that you never grow tired of repeating the same answer to me even when I have asked you the same question before. Thank you for the way that you dance with me and pretend to be my prince. Thank you the way you wrestle with me and let me climb all over your back and front and every limb that you have. Thank you for believing in me and believing in the promises that God has for my life. Thank you for being there for all of my moments and not wanting to be anywhere else. We know this, we sense this, every time we look in your eyes, we know how much you adore us and we hope that today you know how much we adore you and how much we love our Daddy.

I'm Back

2007-06-18T13:19:00.000-07:00

I have been disconnected from my blog for awhile. I was out of town visitng my family back east. It was great seeing my family, especially my sister and her two boys( our kids are the same ages). I loved watching the cousins play and laugh and beat each other up, it truly made my heart swell with joy. It seemed like we had just settled in and it was time to head back home.
We spent the first part of the trip at Jim's parents house for their 50th wedding anniversary. We threw them a party the was straight off the pages of the Great Gatsby, it truly was that magnificient. It was hard to leave them as well, Mady loved playing with her BIG cousins as well.
I will be posting pictures and stories from my time away... just to play a little catch up. As there were many memorable moments I want to record. My DSL has been very fickle since I have returned home, that's why I haven't posted until now. So hopefully it won't be long before another post, my apologiies to those who have been waiting.

Yard Sale

2007-05-26T18:20:00.000-07:00

We had our yearly yard sale today. Yes, once of year we get rid of all of the junk that has been accumulating or all of the projects that never got finished and pile it all onto our driveway. I find that there are two kinds of people in this world those who don't like yard sales and those that do. I have always loved bargain hunting and searching for things that I can fix up and make new again. I equate myself to a pirate searching for gold in the vast sea of yard sales that take place on any given Saturday morning. I always find the best treasures burried under ugly paint or unpolished brass. I always take my first mate Mady with me, it's fun to watch her as she digs through chests of toys to find the one gems she can add to her artillary. And I am happy to oblige her as the cost of her new found treasure is usually under $1.00. We scour the coastal yard sales early and the hit the inland sales on our way home. Today however we gave our day to offering our lost treasures to those who would find a new one. We didn't do quite as well as we had hoped, we have been pretty good about getting rid of things lately. But it was great to talk to the neighbors and to interact with the people who came to shop. I actually was able to clip some of my jasmine for a muslim lady and talk to her and her husband about the Lord. So the Lord had his hand our day and rewarded me with a little less junk and a heart full of joy.

Simple Pleasures

2007-05-23T08:24:00.001-07:00

Peanut Butter and Jelly... A Symbol Of Childhood.

Summer is Here

2007-05-11T08:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we went to the beach. It was such a beautiful day. I watched Mady running around splashing in the waves and shrilling with delight. Aslan also took his first turn in the water since he has been walking. Yes.. that's right he is walking now. He loved how the water would chase him up and down the beach. He reminded me of a little sandpiper scurring up away from the water only to run it down again. I love being with my children, they are so carefree. They remind me how to live a life of freedom one that is surrendered to the Lord.

Embarassing Moments

2007-05-08T10:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Mady found one of our friend's guitar pics and as she did she exclaimed, " Look Mom a woodpecker!" So I showed her how our friend used it to strum his guitar. After which she processed to play the air guitar and shake her head like a rock star. We left shortly after that for the grocery store and she asked me if she could bring her pic with her. She was so cute playing the air guitar in the back seat the whole way to the store. She was pretty excited just to be out of the house as we hadn't left all day. When we got in the store we were walking around for a few minutes when she decided that she didn't want to play with her new toy anymore. She then shouted very loudly, " MOM, MOM, HOLD MY PECKER,.. MOM, MOM HOLD MY PECKER!" Two men shopping close by immediately turned to look as I stood there stunned, and trying not to burst into laughter. I retrieved the pic from her and we continued our shopping.

Hahaha

2007-05-03T20:31:00.001-07:00

This is the funniest video. It makes me laugh so hard. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I do.

Through Sickness...

2007-04-26T16:23:00.000-07:00

We took Mady to a nutrtrionist yesterday for her kidney reflux issue. It was hard listening to them tell me all the things that are wrong with her body. She has been on antibotics, perscibed by her MD, for over a year. These antibotics have basically stripped her body of everything, every area they tested was damaged. Her kidney's, her bladder, her intestines, her lymph system, as well as her growth has been stunted. PLEASE DO NOT GIVE ANTIBOTICS TO YOUR CHILDREN FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD! Thankfully by God's amazing grace it looks like because she is so young she will recover after a heavy dose of supplements. These supplements were not cheap, so we are in prayer that God will meet this need as he has in our past. I guess I am just frustrated at how doctors( MD's ) just give you antibotics without trying to actually cure what is going on in the body. The nutrutionist said that giving antibotics for this was was like taking a sledgehammer to a nail. I am posting this so all who read this blog will understand the seriousness of giving your children drugs to cure illnesses. Most things can be cured with proper nutrition and supplements. I have turned a dear ear to this in the past. It's too hard, it's too expensive, mainly my unwillingness to educate myself has resulted in this circumstance. Please do not misunderstand me I am not anti- western medicine, I just feel that it is incomplete. God designed our bodies and he knows Madeline's frame every square inch of her, we ultimatley are looking to Him to heal her. We all have to take paths in life that lead us closer to knowing the one who made us. This path has only taken us closer to our Lord and brought us more faith in Him and his power to heal through whatever means necessary. We are grateful to Him and are looking to him for continued wisdom through the process.

Ressurection Day

2007-04-15T23:24:00.000-07:00

I came that they might have life and have it more abundantly

Jn 10:10

If I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again, and will take you to myself

Jn 14:3

My Daily Life- Trader Joe's

2007-04-12T09:53:00.000-07:00

Part of the fun of our week is our weekly trip to Trader Joe's. Why is it fun? I know the weekly grocery shopping experience with two small children doesn't seem all that fun. However, we have come to experience the complete opposite. Trader Joe's is a unique blend of my hippie roots and my more refined adult life. Maybe refined isn't the right word but how do you say I like to drink red wine and eat exotic cheeses. They have good red wines for $5.00 and under. They have a lot of organic items like fruits and veggies as well as lots of organic grocery items, and a huge salad section. I love that they have such healthy snacks for the kids, we love Pirate Booty, and Veggie Chips, as well as hummus and carrots sticks. They really make feeding my kids nutritious food very easy. So back to the fun part, they have this game in the store called "Find the Monkey" They hid this stuffed monkey in obscure places in the store somewhere and the kiddos get to find him and get a prize. Mady thinks it's fun to try and look for the monkey while I am shopping and she is completely preoccupied with finding the monkey. Well not completely preoccupied, she is also trying to get me to buy this and that, and really likes to help mommy put things into the cart. But the monkey is a clever way I can divert her attention long enough to get past the cookies. And as for Aslan, he is perfectly happy to eat pirate booty and drink water the whole time. And of course smile and all the ladies that coo at him in the store, he always seems to get a lot of attention. And if she doesn't find the monkey she still gets a bunch a stickers or perhaps a balloon when we check out. Which leads me to the people who work at Trader Joe's, I think they must recruit them directly off of RatDog's latest tour run. These people are a eclectic bunch. I think it's a requirement to have some type of piercing, and a plus on their application if they have a tattoo of two. No, not everyone who works there fits this description, but i like to always get in their line when we leave and ask them questions about their life. And they always ask me questions about mine, like, what are you doing this weekend? Or anything exciting happening with you? It's never a smile and a nod and then silence as they bag your groceries. They also usually make comments about the things that they find in your grocery carts, like oh this is great, have you tried it yet? Or have you tried this? They want to know how I prepare things to eat using their stuff? Always an exchange of humanism. I leave happy with a belly full of snacks and children who are not whinny. This is way we love shopping at Trader Joe's. Here are a couple of photo's... all in an effort to give you a glimpse of my daily life.

Friends for Life

2007-04-10T10:27:00.000-07:00

Kindred Spirits from the moment they met

Mady and Lauren

My Home

2007-04-03T14:10:00.000-07:00

The Front Walkway

Backyard Built for Sipping Tea

Thought it would be nice to show what my house looks like. The grass is getting greener every day, I guess that's what happens when you water it:) I didn't show my roses, they are just beginning to bloom. Jim and I sit out here in the mornings and have our coffee together and talk. Yes those are lights hanging up, we have dinner out here most every night in the summer time under the twinkle lights as mady calls them. It makes life more romantic.

Aslan's Birthday Party

2007-03-27T17:11:00.000-07:00

More Pictures...

"A Ball, A Ball !!!!!"

Aslan's Birthday Party

2007-03-27T17:08:00.000-07:00

It was such a joyous day of celebrating our little man. There is nothing like a first birthday, it was a memorable one. He loved his carrot cake, he had two pieces! Yesterday he took his first steps, tomorrow he will be walking, I wish I could pause each of these special moments and put them in a jar. And when he is old he could take them out and relive them all for the first time again. May you always have that boyish laugh, may you always light up when you see people that you love. May you find every ounce of happiness that this world has to offer and may you seek to know Him who loved you first. I love you my sweet boy, mama.

ASLAN IS ONE TODAY

2007-03-21T16:16:00.000-07:00

WHEeeeeee!!

I'm a Happy Boy

Here I Come

Standing Up

Me and my Sissy

Today is Aslan's birthday. We went ot the park today to celebrate. This year has been the fastest year of my life. I blinked and now he is turning one. When he was a baby all I could think about was him sleeping through the night, now that that's accomplished I am satisified to have him stay this age forever. He has been the biggest blessing to our family. He always wakes up happy and ready to start the day or afternoon (whichever he is awaking too). He doesn't mind his sister's attempts to hold him ten times an hour. He doesn't mind if she takes toys from him that he is chewing on, he is perfectly happy to chew on whatever is available. He loves to play with a ball, bounce a ball in front of him and his eyes light up. He likes to be chased around the house and gigggles really loudly when you catch him. He is shy around people when he first meets them but give him an hour and he's all smiles. He loves to take a bath and make splashes, and doesn't mind his sister splashing him in the face or dumping water on his head... he actually thinks it's funny. I love how God knew perfectly well who would best complement our growing family. So Happy Birthday my Big Boy!! I will post some pictures of his party ( it's on Friday ) later this week. I wish you all could be with us, you will be missed.

Beach Day

2007-03-13T14:36:00.000-07:00

Bedtime

2007-03-12T20:04:00.000-07:00

I am sitting down to write after a long day. In the background I hear my husband reading books to Madeline. She is singing him the ABC's. She is so cute when she gets to L-M-N-O-P, it sounds like M and M and P. Most nights she has a little trouble falling asleep, our bedtime routine lasts about an hour. She calls me in her room several times, once to sing her a song usually Amazing Grace, the next time she calls me is to rock her in my grandmother's rocking chair. When we get to the chair she asks me to tell her a story. I choose a bible story usually but change the names of the characters. I end the story with something like, and they all ended up in heaven with Jesus. Sometimes she asks me about heaven, questions like "Where is God?" Are their animals in heaven?" She also says things like, " I want to go to heaven, how do I get there?" " Jesus and God live in heaven" This coming from the mouth of a three year old, talking about heaven like it's a place she can go tomorrow. Well it's off to bed or to Mady's bed to sing her a lullaby.

Why I live in San Diego

2007-03-10T10:41:00.000-08:00

My husband Jim is in Mexico this weekend surfing with his friends. Every year he takes an annual trip down for his birthday which is Sunday. So the kids and I are headed to the beach ourselves today to soak up the San Diego sun. We went for a walk this morning ( I was secrectly hunting for a garage sale) and one of our neighbors was opening his garage and as we passed by his driveway. As the door opened he raised his arms above his head and exclaimed, " Another beautiful day!" "This is what we pay for by living here, there is no other place like this" I smiled and concurred with him. And as I walked I began to thank God for letting me live in such a beautiful climate. Although the cost of living is very high, you are surrounded by such amazing beauty. As I look out my window I see a sage green mountain right behind my house and in the far distance are more mountains. And today as we get in the car to go to the beach we will only travel for about ten minutes before we reach the golden shores of the pacific. I love the fact that my kids get to be outside all year long. So thank you Lord for the sunshine, for the mountains and the beach, and for allowing me to be in this place where the beauty of your creation can be found just outside my door.

Madeline Turns 3

2007-03-05T10:03:00.000-08:00

Here is our little girl Madeline, or Mady Sue, as we like to call her.
She turned 3 in January and had a joint party with her best friend Lauren.
I can't believe how much she has grown up over the past year. She has so many
wonderful qualities that make her so very special. Madeline loves to dance.
She loves to snuggle and nuzzle into my neck. She loves to read books and jump on my bed.
She has such a joyful spirit. She is sensitive and compassionate, if ever a little friend is hurt,
she is the first to offer a hug or to make sure she is feeling okay. She really loves her little brother,
or baby brother, as we all call him. She is so eager to play with him and teach him how to do things.
I am overcome with emotion sometimes when I look at her, I never knew I could love so much.

The Journey Begins

2007-03-02T19:25:00.000-08:00

I am starting this blog to include my family and friends on what my daily life is about. Most of those whom I am close to I don't see as much as I would like to anymore. I write this to keep a journal of my journey towards my real home in heaven. The place where I can be with all of you again, until then here is my story....