by, Shannon

My Little Reader!!

2011-11-12T23:41:00.001-05:00

I’m not getting my hopes up, but I may FINALLY have a child that will love reading as much as me!Isn’t he just adorable!!! He loves to curl up on our Poang chair from IKEA and just look at books! I keep praying he will read for enjoyment. The other three would rather be moving than sitting! I can’t understand it….I love to read!

He’s been a bit of a distraction during school – not only does he like to look at books – he loves it more when someone will READ TO HIM! But who can so no to such a cute face! We are finding it difficult to concentrate on school work with such a fantastic little guy running around!

Vacation! Ocean City, NJ

2011-09-20T23:19:00.001-04:00

After our whirlwind trip to Massachusetts we drove home, for all of twenty minutes to gather the bikes and beach stuff, and headed on to Ocean City, NJ. We left MA at 3:15 pm and arrived in OC, NJ at 10:30pm! We usually have our week at the beach the Saturday following Labor Day – which would have been last week – but with the wedding we decided to make it for the following week. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem as if the weather is going to cooperate. After arriving on Saturday, we went to bed and awoke to a rainy Sunday. We basically hung around the house – slept, played games, and talked with my parents and sister who were here. They came down early on Saturday to get the keys and open the house for us. Lisa, who has been battling breast cancer (and won! and is now in remission!) was excited to stick her feet in the sand. She LOVES the beach and hasn’t been able to get to the beach all season with all her treatments. They left around 3 pm and we headed to the grocery store to get supplies for the week and then pizza for dinner!

Monday we awoke to beautiful blue skies – but WINDY!!! We went out for a morning bike ride – 5 miles! We came home, ate an early lunch and headed to the beach. It was chilly and windy – but the sun was shining and we figured it may be the only decent day of the week. Drew LOVED the beach – we were there for three hours and he played non-stop in the sand. I could actually sit in my chair and just watch him as he played so nicely! The older three also played really well – building sand castles and motes and having battles between cities! Drew soon became tired and brought him home to take a nap. He was so tired he started to fall asleep in the tub while I was bathing him! He was totally asleep while I dressed him! We then headed to the boardwalk after supper. We just walked the boards as the rides weren’t open – much to Daniel’s disappointment! It doesn’t look like they’ll be open until Friday.

Andy’s parents came down Monday evening and are staying until Wednesday afternoon. It was a cloudy morning – but we headed to the beach to walk along the shore and then on the boards. It started to rain after a couple of hours so we headed back for lunch. Around 4 pm the sun decided to make an appearance! Andy took the three older kids and his parents to play shuffleboard while I stayed back while Drew napped. It was a pretty relaxing day. It looks like it may be raining for the rest of the week – so we’ll have to see what things we can come up with to keep the kids happy – I am really hoping the weatherman is wrong and we can play in the sand again! I guess we’ll see!

Jared and Sarah

2011-09-20T17:29:00.001-04:00

This past weekend we made a whirlwind trip to Massachusetts (Friday-Saturday!) where I was able to witness the wedding of Jared and Sarah. Jared is the son of my heart. I have known him since birth – but didn’t really get to start knowing him until he was 5 years old. He was a wild child! And I loved every minute of it! He and his older sister Joy were our “practice” children. We would take them everywhere – museums, the zoo, swimming, the Olympic Ice Skating try outs. We loved them as our own (and still do). In fact our daughter has the middle name “Joy” because we wanted to name her after the daughter of our heart! We watched them grow up into wonderful adults. I have prayed so much for Jared during his “tough” growing up years. He was a tough kid! There were many tears and prayers lifted on his behalf. And God answered each one! He is an amazing young man of God. He gives me hope for my own “tough” kid!

While praying for Jared I have also prayed for Sarah – only I didn’t know her name or who she was at the time. I knew it would take a special woman of God to love Jared. I prayed God would prepare her heart to love and accept Jared for who he was. I prayed she would love God with all her heart and live for Him alone. God has given the perfect woman to Jared – she is his perfect match. I am so blessed to have witnessed such an amazing work of God. While I did shed tears at this wedding – they were tears of joy and of the amazing work God does when you allow Him to be the conductor of your life! I will continue to pray for these two young people for the rest of my life! I am so blessed!

School Days

2011-09-05T21:52:00.001-04:00

When Daniel was little and we were homeschooling I struggled with what to do with him. But he was an extremely complacent child who was content to do a lot of different things – play with puzzles, look at books, play with anything. Of course, when he was two we were in the middle of dealing with bed bugs so he didn’t get to “do” that much. We were tired and he just went with the flow.

Now that we have Drew – and I’m homeschooling a 9th, 7th, and a 1st grader – I now struggle with what to do with him. He is NOT the complacent child Daniel was – he is much more adventurous – and loves danger. He climbs everything, reaches for everything, and runs everywhere. Thanks to a wonderful website, 1+1+1=1, I have found some great ideas to keep Drew occupied so I can get something done with one of the other kids. Here are some pictures of Drew doing his “school'”!

He LOVES putting things into containers. Here he is putting little pompoms into a pitcher and pouring them into a container.Here he is playing with Lauri Toys Smart Shapes and Stacker Pegs. He LOVES this! He shocked me with being able to actually put the pegs in the little holes the first time he ever played with it. He claps for himself each time he sticks a peg into a hole! He cracks me up!Someone gave us a gift to use towards a computer for school. Well, after discussing it we decided to put it towards an iPad 2. There are so many incredible apps to use for education. You can find a list on the same 1+1+1=1 website of some recommended apps. Drew LOVES several of them!He gets so tickled when he does something that gets a positive response!

He still keeps me hopping and the kids are learning to work with a toddler around – but hopefully our routine will be settling soon and we can all get our work done!

Schultz Family Christmas–in August!!!

2011-08-20T23:01:00.001-04:00

I have been going to the Schultz Family Christmas since before I was a legal Schultz! It’s always so much fun to get together and see how the family is doing. It used to be held on Christmas day. But as the family got larger it became more difficult to hold it then. So we had changed it to the Saturday before or the Saturday after Christmas – which ever was actually closer to Christmas. This worked for a while, but then also became difficult to manage. So now we hold it whenever the person in charge can manage it. There are 6 Schultz siblings Robert, Martha, Herb, Louise, John, and Doris – though Uncle Herb passed away a few years ago, Aunt Barb still takes her turn. This year it was Andy’s parents turn to host and it turned out to be a beautiful day! I was a little worried as we have been having terrible storms – but God was good and provided a beautiful breeze and blue skies! It was great to see much of the family, but still missed seeing those that just live too far away to make it in! I didn’t take too many pictures – maybe I can get a few from Uncle Donald later – but we did have fun!Our newest craze – Qwirkle! Such a fun family game!Do you see the look I’m getting? That’s because I had just taken several wonderful pictures of him and he was saying “Really? You want me to smile MORE?!?!?”Here are a few of the wonderful pictures! Man, I love this kid!!!! Daniel and his PopPop! I am so thankful for Andy’s family heritage! All Godly men and women. So thankful for the influence and example they are to me and my kids! God is so good!

First Day of School!

2011-08-15T23:12:00.001-04:00

Today was our first day of school! It is later than we usually start – but we’ve had a very busy summer and this was the first day I had all the kids together! I surprised them with a field trip to the Franklin Institute to see “Mummies of the World”. What an amazing display! if you get the opportunity to do this tour – go for it! Andy was able to go with us! I so love it when he goes to these type of things as he can easily translate the dates of the mummies to Biblical times. It was really neat to see these people who had lived so long ago. I was a bit worried about how Daniel would handle it – but he loved it! He was fascinated with all the details and examples of mummies. I really wish I could have taken photos – but with the delicate nature of the objects that was not allowed.

After the Mummies exhibit we toured around the different rooms. Isaac’s Loft is always a favorite……as is the newly redone Benjamin Franklin room. The kids also enjoyed the new Changing Earth room.Here they are making a news cast about the weather via green screen. Afterwards you could watch it on a TV outside of the room.Matt rode the Sky Bike and was showing off a bit!

It was a good first day! Now only about 179 to go! Tomorrow we are going to start Math, English, Spelling/ Vocab, Spanish (for Matt) and Science. I am waiting on Literature, Writing, and History until after our staff retreat next week. I’m really praying that this will be a better year than last!

Day 4 – Niagara Falls

2011-08-12T22:34:00.000-04:00

Our last day! Our main purpose for this trip was to see the Falls. It didn’t work out as well as we had wanted it to, but we did get to see a bit of Niagara. We didn’t actually get to them until around 6 pm. As soon as we got there we headed for The Maid of the Mist. It is as incredible boat ride that takes you down into the falls so you see them up close!

The kids LOVED it! Well, everyone except Drew. He didn’t think too much of the water splashing all around. Since it was sunset we saw so many rainbows! When Andy took the kids up the side walkway up along the falls they actually walked under a rainbow! So cool!When it gets dark they illuminate the falls with different colored lights. It is really beautiful. Matt wanted to take a “romantic” photo of us! The last time we had been up there was pre-kid time! He’s so funny!

We then stayed for the fireworks display over the falls. We waited FOREVER! When we called we were told it was at 9 pm – when in reality they didn’t go off until 10 pm. As it turned out it was only a 5 minute display! But we saw it and the kids liked it! We got home very late that night!

Though it wasn’t how we planned it – it worked out well and we saw an amazing display of God’s power and beauty! We’ll go back another day when Drew is older and he can enjoy it more!

Day 3–Hamlin Beach State Park

2011-08-11T12:16:00.000-04:00

Another gorgeous day! Today we headed to Hamlin State Park which has a beach on Lake Ontario. I never realized just how large Lake Ontario is!!! It looks just like the ocean – with waves lapping up against the shore and sandy beaches – though the sand was a bit coarser than the Ocean City, NJ beaches we are used to. The pictures say what an incredible time we had!

Drew had an amazing time! He loved every minute of it and was so pleasant the entire 7 hours we were there! To say I’m a lobster would be an understatement! The weather was so absolutely perfect – a beautiful light breeze and sunny skies – I didn’t feel myself turning crisp! But it was definitely worth it! Tomorrow is Niagara Falls! The weather has been so amazing – I so don’t want to go home to heat and humidity. We are having such a great vacation.

Day 2 - Erie Canal

2011-08-10T10:38:00.000-04:00

Today we awoke to beautiful blue skies and cool temperatures! LOVELY!!! Today we ventured out to the Erie Canal Boat Tour.

It was a great trip – though Drew didn’t think too highly of being stuck on a boat for 2 hours. Truth is he didn’t get a nap and I really thought he would sleep on the boat – but he decided that he wasn’t going to cooperate!

You go through the locks and see first-hand how the canal works. I thought it was quite fascinating!

After the boat tour we walked around the locks to see it how it all worked from atop of the bridge. It was really neat to see how the water from one side rose and the other side fell – making the water level even on each side of the lock. The first picture below is of a boat in the upper lock – the water is receding. The lower picture is the lock on the other side of the door – the water is rising. The above picture is the water level on both sides so the boat can continue traveling down the river. The other fascinating aspect of it was that it all works by gravity.

The levels of the four locks.

After seeing the locks, we walked around the town of Lockport and visited a church with 12 Tiffany stained glass windows – absolutely beautiful! They are reported to be worth more than 12 million dollars!

The windows start at the bottom like the first picture above and go up past the balcony as one long window. The balcony was built a number of years later after the stain glass was installed. They had an audio tour of the windows and the kids found it amazing how the different textures were created. Andy liked the fact that the church had Lexan on the outside of the stain glass just like our church has!

We ended the day with ice cream sundaes!! It was a great day!

Gasport, NY!!!–Travel Day/ Day 1

2011-08-09T12:03:00.000-04:00

We made the trip! We are here visiting with close friends from college – the Ragonese family. We had planned this trip for last year but one of our kids got sick and then one of their kids got sick – so we cancelled the trip with the plan to do it this year! And it worked out!!!! They live about 30 minutes out of Niagara Falls. The kids are so excited to see the falls! Daniel keeps talking about it – but he has absolutely no idea what to expect! It’s going to be fun to see his reaction when he actually sees it!

The trip took about 9 hours and Drew didn’t think too highly of the trip! He was a whinny mess almost the entire trip – except for the last hour. Then he was happy and talking – go figure! I was really hoping he would sleep – but he only slept for about 45 minutes the entire trip! The other three did great – but watching movies really helps with that!We only made two stops – once for breakfast and another at a Wal-Mart to stretch our legs and get a drink!

As soon as we got out of the car the kids started playing together. They have three kids - 14 (girl), 12 (boy) and 8 (boy). Our girls are extremely excited that there is another girl to talk/ play with!

And the boys have been running around like banshees enjoying the fresh country air.

It is raining right now – but the temperatures are amazing! SO MUCH COOLER than where we live! I am so going to enjoy this week! We had planned on doing an outside activity today (Tuesday) – but that was pushed off until better weather comes around. Instead we enjoyed a couple of games of bowling – followed by pizza and a movie – Rio! We all had a lot of fun.

Plans this week include seeing the falls, riding the canal, and visiting a lake beach. Most of all it’s just going to be relaxing and fellowshipping with friends!

Race Day, Mother’s Day, B-day!!

2011-05-09T23:39:00.001-04:00

Yup! The trifecta occurred on May 8, 2011! It was an incredibly busy day – but so much fun and full of blessings!

We started our day bright and early – 5:30 am! Not exactly how I wanted to start my Mother’s Day/ B-day! But it was for a good cause – The Race for the Cure. Many of you know that my sister is battling breast cancer and this race was developed to raise money and awareness. My sister formed a team and we committed ourselves to walking the 3 miles. I have done the walk before – and it was emotional then. It’s even more so when you KNOW someone standing on the survivor’s steps. We weren’t sure how Lisa would fair during the race – she gets very tired easily – but she FINISHED the race!!! It was great to see her looking so full of energy and smiling from ear to ear with all the support and encouragement from friends and family.

After the race we went to church and enjoyed some fellowship with others. It’s funny – but Mother’s Day is always a well attended service! One of the best parts of the Mother’s Day celebration was a YouTube video that Pastor Bill played prior to the message. If you get a chance, click on the link and watch the video. The church was full of laughter! It was great!

After church we went to a friend’s house, the Hatfield’s, to celebrate Joan’s birthday. Her husband put together a surprise birthday party – and he got her! She was so surprised! The cutest thing was that he got all the family members shirts that read “No, I’m 29!” and labeled the party “the first anniversary of her 30th birthday”. We had a great time talking with friends and the kids had a blast running around with the other kids playing games and taking a hike.It was also my 42nd birthday! Yup! I’m getting old! But I am so blessed! I praise God that I was able to spend my day with family and friends, celebrating life and all of God’s blessings!

Easter 2011

2011-05-05T23:53:00.001-04:00

I know – I am so far behind in my blog life! Easter was almost two weeks ago – but I need to put these pictures up! We had a great day spending a quiet Easter with my parents and sister. The kids were all decked out in their finest – even Matt agreed to wear a nice shirt!

I took my camera to church and got a few of the kids with their friends! I even convinced Matt, Eliza, and Josh to humor me with one more photo of the ~~terrible~~ I mean terrific trio! I have one of them together every Easter since Eliza was one! Her first birthday was on Easter!

This is Sarah’s crew…

And now we have the future hoodlums! These four are the neatest kids ever! I love each of them so much!! Can’t wait to see what God is going to do with this crew – they are just a bunch of neat kids!Daniel and his best bud! These two crack me up! Both are very animated!

Then there is sweet Drew! He has a crew – they’re just all smaller than him right now and wouldn’t cooperate for a photo! I really wish I would have gotten one of him and his Lili girl! Those two are going to be TROUBLE together – I can see it now!!

It was a great Easter. Our church held two services and our kids choir sang at both of them – such troopers!

Adventure Aquarium

2011-05-05T23:14:00.001-04:00

Last Sunday we had the great pleasure to take another family to the Adventure Aquarium in NJ. We have a membership and it allowed us to take all but one for free!! The Hood’s are missionaries with WEC and have three boys almost the same age as our first three. They come to our church every Sunday and give out food that Whole Foods has donated to their mission. I know the people of our neighborhood really appreciate the items they give out as it helps stretch their food budgets each week!I love the aquarium. They have so many neat creatures and every time I go it seems they have new ones to look at and study! I wish we could go more often – even though we have a membership it still costs $14 each time we go. The membership doesn’t cover parking or the toll to get back over the bridge. But we try to go at least six times while we have the membership – that way we cover the cost of the membership and get some free visits in. We also try to take people so we get more bang for our buck!

It was really fun to take Drew this time as he was REALLY interested in the “things” swimming around in the water. But we have discovered that he really doesn’t like water. Every bath is a scream fest until I pull him out of the water. He would even stick his hand in any of the touch tanks. The kid does not like water! It’s going to be an interesting summer as our other kids are fish and spend 95% of their time in the pool! Hopefully, he will get past this!

The Sting Ray Bay was really neat this week! The rays were very active and even coming up out of the water to greet us! I love Sarah’s face in this picture – one of shock and surprise! She hasn’t been fond of rays since she was little and one splashed her at a visit to Sea World. But with her studying sea creatures this year for science she has become more accepting of the creatures!We had a great time! Our membership expires the end of the month – I am hoping to get back there one more time with Grammy Schultz – she loves fish! Then we will move onto land creatures and visit the Philadelphia Zoo this summer and fall! I love living in Philly! SO many things to do and see!

BUGS!!!

2011-04-20T11:33:00.001-04:00

Sometimes one of our local libraries (we have two in our neighborhood) gets it together and does a great job of providing some educational programs. Richmond Library (my favorite one) recently got a new Children’s Librarian (and I LOVE her!) and she has been bringing in various people to educate the kids on art, music, and science. Yesterday, the Insectarium, came to the library with several interesting (and GROSS!) bugs! I am so glad several of the bugs he brought are native to other countries – and that God hasn’t called me to live in one of them!

I ran the kids and our friend Paxton over for the show. They were all pretty excited and LOVED seeing and even petting some of the bugs.

The speaker, Dave, was very informative and funny and the kids really learned a lot of interesting facts about bugs – the most important fact being that we NEED bugs to live on this earth. Isn’t God amazing – that we actually NEED bugs – these creepy crawly creatures to live. The one bug the kids REALLY liked was the Goliath Beetle – IT’S HUGE!!!

The kids in the country where it’s found climb the trees in search of them, tie a string to it’s abdomen, and then pretend it is a type of balloon as they fly. Then they take them home and have their mother’s cook them for lunch! EEEWWWW! But the bug is pretty!

Daniel really liked the Jewel Beetles. They are pretty!

The tarantula was the hit of the show – though we weren’t able to pet it as they have little hairs on them that make you itch – but the kids all wanted one after seeing Dave handle one! I don’t think so!!!

Towards the end of the program Dave brought out cheese flavored cornmeal worms. He then challenged the kids to eat one! Paxton took one – but didn’t eat it!

Instead they all got Daniel to try it! He didn’t think too much of it!

It was a lot of fun! I am hoping this new librarian continues to provide neat educational programs that will encourage learning among the children of our neighborhood.

Lost Tooth!!!

2011-03-28T11:11:00.001-04:00

Daniel lost his first tooth today!!!

I can’t believe my baby is growing up so fast!!! I always find it sad when my kids start losing their teeth. To me it seems that it is a turning point in their journey to growing up – they are leaving behind the “baby” things and starting to become kids. But I also find it fun and exciting to see the kind of people they are turning out to be! I know – I’m a confused mess! But isn’t that part of parenting? I love Daniel to death – he is funny and caring and ALWAYS tells me he loves me – no matter how grumpy I am! He is my sweet boy and I am so blessed to be his mom!

Spring Fun!

2011-03-21T21:47:00.001-04:00

For years Andy has dreamed of a backyard that could hold a small fire pit. He has really missed cooking out on an open fire. This past Black Friday I ventured out to Target and found this small fire pit. I figured it was a start and we could see if this was something that would work with a couple of small kids.

Sunday was the test firing! Andy built a fire and we roasted hot dogs and toasted marshmallows! It was a fun First Day of Spring thing to do! Even though it was a bit nippy – we laughed and enjoyed the smoky smell of the wood! It reminded us of being at PopPop and Grammy’s! I’m looking forward to more family times like this this spring/ summer!

Matt isn’t hiding from the camera – just hiding from the smoke blowing into his face!!

Drew was there too – confined to a high chair! He is too mobile and the fire pit isn’t too sturdy. It was so much fun! Loving life!!!

Learning to Read!

2011-03-10T21:38:00.001-05:00

One of the greatest joys I get in homeschooling my kids is that I get to teach them to read! I LOVE READING! I would spend all my waking hours reading if I didn’t have anything else to do! I would read instead of eat! I have been know to stay up all night because I am engrossed in an incredible book that I just can’t put down!

I love reading and have made it my goal to help my kids love to read as well. Matt enjoys reading – not loves – but he does read an occasional book not related to school and has a couple of favorite series. He likes being read to more than reading himself.

Sarah is becoming an avid reader. Something I thought would NEVER happen. She couldn’t sit still long enough to learn how to read until she was in the second grade! I panicked with that girl! I thought for sure she was going to grow up illiterate! But she came along and caught the reading bug. She still prefers to “do” things rather than sit down and read for long stretches – but she does read at night and has amassed quite a list for her reading log.

Now it’s Daniel’s turn. After teaching two kids to read I have learned to relax a bit and watch for the signs that he is ready to read. Sometimes I feel so much pressure to have my kids “perform” at or above level – forgetting that they have their own timetable and that the wonderful thing about homeschooling is that you can cater to that time table! So, I waited for Daniel to be ready. He turned 5 last July and that little niggling in my head kept saying “TIME TO LEARN TO READ!” but my heart kept saying “BE PATIENT - IT WILL COME!” Well, the past month – the light turned on! He is a reading maniac! He is looking everywhere for things to try and read. He is also LOVING being read to – something he wasn’t incredibly fond of just a few months ago. His favorite series to read now is Henry and Mudge by Cynthia Rylant. I love Henry and Mudge – such a great boy friendly series! And Daniel is in love with them too! He is really excited about using Fun Tales to help him strengthen his reading skills. He loves reading them to Andy when he gets home from work!

One thing I am extremely thankful for is my new laminator! Andy got it for me for Christmas! I am a bit of a perfectionist and really hated making word cards on index cards as they would soon be all crumpled up and a mess. Now I can use my computer to create the word cards (because I also hate my handwriting!) and them laminate them to stay sturdy! Daniel likes them, too! He often pulls them out to practice reading his words! I love this kid!!!

Pray for all three kids as they start to wind up their school year – 11 weeks left! We have testing next week – always a stressful time for mommy! Pray they will do well and show what they truly know and what they need work on for the coming year!

Happy Fasnacht Day!!

2011-03-09T11:25:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was Fasnacht Day! I LOVE Fasnacht Day! There is a bakery around here that makes the most amazing fasnachts for Fasnacht Day! What’s a fasnacht? It’s a donut – but in PA Dutch German tradition all the women would have to use up their lard and flour, etc the day before lent so it wouldn’t go bad – at least that’s the way it was explained to me as a kid. I just remember loving the donuts!

So yesterday was Drew’s first official experience of Fasnacht Day – and BOY did he ENJOY it!!! Here are the pictures to prove it!

Here he is signing MORE!! And he was doing it quite emphatically! I think he really likes donuts! He used to have an issue with icing – didn’t like the feel of it – I think he’s gotten over that ! It was a fun morning. I like the little traditions we keep.

Getting Brave!!!

2011-03-01T22:15:00.001-05:00

My baby is starting to get brave! For the past three days he’s been testing the waters of standing on his own two feet! And he is quite proud of himself!!! The smile that he gets on his cute little face when he lets go and stands is just priceless! I’ve tried to get a good picture but these were the best that I could do – he only stands for a few seconds – but I can tell the walking isn’t far behind!!!

We also have a bit of a drama king on our hands! Whenever he is sad or unhappy about his current condition – this is what he does….

Andy calls him the incredible folding baby. He sits and completely bends at the waist until his head is on the ground. Very dramatic!!

We have a new “toy” that mommy loves – but baby doesn’t!

Drew standing at the gate crying – he’s so sad!

Drew doesn’t care to be separated from mama and will stand or sit at the fence crying. Poor baby. I mostly got it because I am terrified that he will fall down the basement steps as the door hasn’t been completely fixed from the renovation. Plus the cat needs to have access to the basement as that is where her food and litter box are located – so the door is often left open as the other kids just aren’t used to closing it regularly. I also love it because I no longer have to chase Drew as he heads towards the kitchen – his favorite place to be. It is a great gate and was a great price – much cheaper than I thought a gate this size would cost. You can find it here. I also love that it comes with a bag and folds up really small!

For February I managed to get to the gym 25 out of 28 days! Only 13 more visits until I can apply to get a reimbursement check from my health insurance! Andy and I agreed that if we reached the goal of completing our health logs for our health insurance then we could keep the money that we get back – $150! I am so excited! I have no idea what I’m going to do with it – probably save it! There is a homeschool conference in June that I am planning on attending and will probably save it for that!

The cooking for February – well…..we’ll not talk about that! I made a lot of meals – only ate out (or take home) four times. But several meals were those fast and easy – hotdogs or frozen chicken patties – but I did use the crock-pot a lot more and those meals were really good! I’ll keep trying!

Visit with my sister

2011-02-27T21:39:00.001-05:00

As many of you know, my little sister is dealing with breast cancer. She was diagnosed last November and has been undergoing chemotherapy since late December at University of Pennsylvania Hospital. She has been doing amazing!!! This past Thursday was her tenth treatment and she wanted me and the kids to come and visit with her while she was getting her chemo. The hospital ENCOURAGES visits by many different people and has no age restriction! The kids thought this was great and were so excited to go see Aunt Lisa. I think they were also a bit curious as to what exactly happens. Daniel was a riot and has been super sensitive towards Aunt Lisa. He really enjoyed getting to see what goes on – and playing with her iPhone!

The best news, however, was finding out that there is no longer any detectable mass!! YAY!!! The doctors are quite pleased with how well she has been responding to treatment. She has two more treatments in this phase and then four more in the second phase. She will then have surgery June 2nd and have the entire summer to recuperate (she is a P.E. teacher for a public school). Please continue to pray for her, that she would continue to respond well to treatment, for strength as she is getting tired more easily at this point (to be expected) and that the surgery would go well. More importantly continue to pray for her heart to be moved towards God and to rely upon him for strength.

January Recap

2011-02-10T16:12:00.001-05:00

I had two major goals for the month of January – to cook more dinners at home and to get to the gym more often than not. With the gym, I did GREAT!!! Out of the 31 days I went 28 of them! The three I missed were generally due to the weather. I really enjoy going to the gym – even though I have to get up when it is still dark outside!! But I love the quiet of the morning and getting my body and brain going. I especially like the reading that I can do while I am on the elliptical!

If you remember a couple of posts ago I posted my menu for the month of January. I know you couldn’t read it – but I put it up to be held accountable. I learned a lot about myself and cooking last month. The biggest thing I learned is that when I plan and “know” what I am making – cooking goes a lot smoother. Another thing I learned is I really HATE trying new recipes. It takes me FOREVER to put a meal together when I am just learning – and with a one-year old crawling around and getting into everything – it’s hard for me to focus that long. This month also happened to turn into a crazy month with a lot of unexpected events taking place. In the end I managed to cook 26 out of 31 meals. Some of those eat out meals were planned – but three of them weren’t – they were “I’m too stressed to cook with everything that is going on today – SAVE ME!” meals! I still hate cooking but it’s getting easier to handle when I plan.

I also had a few little goals – like keep caught up with the laundry and try to de-clutter a specific area in the house. This month I focused on my bedroom. The one big thing that was cluttering our room was Drew! He has been in our room since birth and it was time for him to MOVE OUT! The problem was – where to put him. Sarah has her own room and we thought about putting him in there – she really wanted him there! But she’s an 11 year old girl and will be wanting her “space” before too long. The boys room isn’t really big enough for three of them – but that’s where he ended up. We just moved his pack-n-play into the room and it seems to be working out pretty well. Matt was white hot mad when we first did it. He REALLY wants his own room – but there is no other bedroom. And we aren’t moving!!! After all the work we have put into this house – and the knowledge that we have done our best to protect this house from further bedbug invasions – I can’t imagine moving. Sometime in the future we may have to rearrange people – but right now things are okay. What we are really praying for – and this is a HUGE DREAM on my part – is that the house next door to us would go up for sale and we’d be able to purchase it. The people that live in it now aren’t staying in there because they can’t afford the heat – they have moved in with other family. We kind of hinted we’d be interested in purchasing – if it came to them selling. I’m praying and God knows what is best for us – but it sure would make life a little easier with that much more space!!! As far as the rest of the de-cluttering of my bedroom – it’s a work in progress! It’s getting there – and hopefully by the end of this month it will look decent. The laundry is a never-ending source of contention with me – it just NEVER gets done! But at least I’m getting into the mode of doing at least two loads everyday. Winter clothes are the worst because they are so heavy and bulky. Summer can’t come fast enough!

Well, that’s January. It has taken me FOREVER to get this blog post up. Life just doesn’t seem to be slowing down. But my new goal for February is to start blogging more regularly again. I know a few people have been missing it. Thanks for the prayers! I really need them!

Happy 1st Birthday!!!

2011-01-25T00:46:00.000-05:00

My baby is ONE year old today!

I remember his birth like it was yesterday. How can a year have gone by already? It went way too fast! I am so incredibly thankful for this beautiful gift from God! Drew has changed my life for the better and has shown me God’s amazing grace and love in a very tangible way!

Some things I love about my baby boy….

The way he wakes up making all kinds of cute sounds.

The way his little face lights up when he sees me!

The way he claps his hands when he hears cheering, whether it be from the television, radio, or in church!

The way he gives me a mischievous grim when he is crawling off into the dinning room! If he’s quiet – you know he’s up to something!!!

The way he looks at his siblings with absolute delight! He thinks the world of them!

The way he still holds onto my shirt when he nurses – he’s done this since birth!

Is it wrong to sometimes hope he’ll cry in the middle of the night just so I can go and hold him? I love those moments and I know they are going to fly by WAY TO FAST!

Drew is a real joy to my heart and such a wonderful, unexpected blessing! I can’t imagine my life without him!

Happy Birthday, Drewbeedoobeedoo! We SO love YOU!!!!

*My incredibly talented friend, Carisa, took Drew’s one year old portraits – impromptu! We were at Karate with the older kids and she happened to have her camera! I LOVE THEM! Thank you!

Some more cuteness!

2011-01-11T09:27:00.005-05:00

I did a quick photo session with Drew to get a picture for his Dedication/ 1st Birthday Announcement and he was quite cooperative! Take a look!
Isn't he just adorable! Can't believe injust two weeks he'll be ONE!!! UGH!!! Where did my baby go?

Snowy Day...

2011-01-08T23:23:00.003-05:00

A tree outback of our house - the city can look beautiful in the winter!

AHH! What a great day! I went to the gym (my ninth day in a row!!) and then came home and grabbed the family to head out to Chick-fil-a. We registered for free Spicy Chicken Biscuits - Matt and Andy ate them - I can't eat spicy - but we all enjoyed a wonderful breakfast together. We then came home and enjoyed a relaxing snow day! Matt still had school work to catch up on, but I was able to take a nap!!! I haven't taken a nap in forever! I loved it!

I have been doing pretty well with the whole meal cooking thing and the kids have been really encouraging! Last night I made a roast in the crock pot and it was so delicious! With the leftover meat I made Vegetable Beef Soup - perfect for our snowy day! It really does help to have all the meals planned out so I can make sure I have the right ingredients. I am also able to actually cook the meal in a decent amount of time since I am not staring into the frig wondering what to make! Thank you for all your encouragement and help!

On a Drew note - I came home from the gym today and Andy informed me that Drew greeted him by standing up in the pack-n-play where he sleeps! UGH!!! I have watched him try to do it a couple of times but have never seen him actually do it! Now he can! He really is growing up way to fast! I'll have to try to snap a picture of him doing it one of these days.

New Goals!

2011-01-03T23:49:00.005-05:00

With each new year I always try to set some new goals - more often than not I fail miserably! But I try and every now and then I am successful. My goal for this year is to try to cook more dinners. I hate cooking - I know I have mentioned that before! - but I need to make more healthy meals and God has been spurring me on to make this a priority. He has given me this wonderful family to care for and FEED! I need to make this a ministry to my family and get my act together. Since one of the things that goes along with cooking is the grocery shopping (which I hate even more!) I have decided to try to plan a month of meals so that I can go to the grocery store as little as possible!!! I have come up with my first month of meals!!I don't think I'll be able to make a dinner EVERY night. I am so thankful for the staff retreat that falls in the middle of the month as that is three less meals I have to make! I have also planned on two meals that we order in or go out to eat. But even with those five meals - I will be making a whole lot more than I had last month! I think last month, I am ashamed to say, I may have made a total of ten meals! Cooking is hard for me - I am not a creative cook - know nothing about adding flavor to meals and cook basically the same things week after week. I have added a couple of new recipes to try - but I hate new recipes because they take so long to prepare. But this is an area where I need to improve and that is my goal for the year. I have only made this one goal because it is going to take everything I have (and even more from God!) to accomplish this task! So while you are cheerfully preparing your own meals - I would really appreciate prayers on my behalf that I would do this task cheerfully and learn how to prepare healthy meals for my family! Thanks!!!

Welcome 2011!!!

2011-01-01T23:55:00.008-05:00

Sunset on New Year's Eve - on our way to see the 6 pm fireworks!

WOW!! A whole new year! I love New Year's Day! The thought of no mistakes yet made is refreshing! A nice clean start - with lots of hopes and dreams to fulfill! We had a great day today - cleaning up the Christmas decorations, reflecting on the last year and making new goals for this coming year. I think the kids think it's fun to see what they wrote down last year and to see if they have met any of their previous goals. I know I think it's fun!

This past week has been busy. Cleaning, organizing, playing!!! We've had a good break! But I am starting to get the feeling of wanting to get back into school mode and get things done! I am hoping the second half of our school year goes better than the first half. I need to get myself together and really participate - I've been feeling rather lost this school year trying to fit a third kid into the mix while dealing with the fourth and his needs. But I think I have figured some new things to try and we'll see how it goes!

This past week, Thursday, Daniel had the opportunity to go to see Toy Story 3 on Ice! He was given tickets as a Christmas gift from my mom. I so wish I had had the video camera going when he was given the gift! His reaction was priceless as his little face lit up when he realized what he had been given. I was the lucky parent to attend the show with him!!!It was really fun just spending one on one time with my sweet 5 year old! I think he enjoyed it too! Here are a few pictures of our time at the show. Did I mention we were second row from the ice? The seats were amazing!!In Drew news - he is amazing! He just started crawling the week before Christmas and now he's trying to pull himself up to a standing position. He was successful yesterday when he was getting ready for a bath as he pulled himself up at the tub! He was quite pleased. I have also caught him several times trying to pull himself up in his pack-n-play! He is just all over the place! He's getting so big! It's sad and exciting at the same time. I so love this baby time when he's all snugly and lovey - but it's exciting to see him progress and grow into a toddler. He has also FINALLY gotten his eighth tooth! Two molars are also pushing through - they look so soar - but he's being a real trooper about them!

Happy New Year! May God richly bless you this year!

Christmas 2010!!!

2010-12-26T23:46:00.005-05:00

Christmas 2010! Where did the year go? I have NO idea - but this was the best Christmas EVER!!! Mostly due to the fact that there were no bed bugs (like in 2008) and I wasn't 8 months pregnant (like in 2009)! And the fact that we have this most adorable 11 month old living in our house - well - do I need to say more?!?! The above picture was taken Christmas Eve - the night before the ripping of the wrapping!
I have ALWAYS dreamed of having a banister full of stockings - this year my dream came true! Six wonderful stockings all in a row! As we were hanging them Andy made the comment that there was room for two more (ha, ha, ha!!!). He's so funny!

Christmas morning was so much fun! Sarah really enjoyed helping Drew with his gifts. Drew was a riot! He was quite taken with the fact that people were ripping paper. He LOVES ripping paper! As each kid was opening gifts he was stuck at the first one....
He was too wrapped up in investigating the paper :-)!!!!Each kid was pretty pleased with their gifts - especially Daniel with this new human body book. He has been asking for this book for years! The heart makes a beating sound, the digestive system gurgles, he thinks it's great! He'll even sit and listen to everything being read to him - even though he doesn't understand all of it - I think he'll be a doctor someday!This is the one gift Daniel was sent to his room for....he was a little put out with it and, as he has been doing A LOT lately, clearly stated it wasn't something he asked for and didn't want it! I informed him he didn't need any of it and could go to his room until he could be thankful for what he was getting. He didn't recall asking for the TAG reader this past summer. When Sarah and Matt showed him what it was - he was then thankful and thrilled with the gift! Matt was too fast at opening his gifts for me to get any shots!!! He's a teenager now and buying him gifts this year was a real challenge! But he was great about the different things he got - his favorite being "War of the Worlds" by H.G. Wells! He's really into reading the classics - a shocker I know! I never thought this kid would actually ENJOY reading for pleasure!Drew is now 11 months old!!! WOW!!! He started crawling this past week and today started STANDING UP!!!! It's happening WAY too fast! The kids are having a hard time adjusting to his new found mobilness! He's into EVERYTHING!!!!! He got the above toy, Lil' Zoomers Spinnin' Sounds Speedway, from my mom and thought it was a good seat! He put himself in it! He is a riot! I can't believe in less than a month my baby will be one! So sad - but so glad he is FINALLY sleeping through the night - and it only took him 10 1/2 months! I love that sweet face!

Christmas Play!!

2010-12-20T00:20:00.004-05:00

Usually, we just have the kids that attend our church sing a song for the four Sundays of advent and then a couple of songs for Christmas Eve. This year another woman that attends our church asked the "choir director" if she could put on a play. She wanted a big production - thankfully the choir director suggested she start small - VERY WISE MOVE! You see we only get a handful of "regulars" (and they are usually staff kids!). Often we get many kids from the neighborhood sporadically. Even today - the day of the play - we had new kids that had never been to a practice before today! But it was such a cute play and the kids did a fantastic job! It was the Christmas story centered around four different songs with different kids narrating.

Daniel played Joseph - and was mighty handsome! Sarah was a narrator and did a great job! My parents and Andy's parents attended the event and then came to the house for lunch. We had a great time visiting! Here are some pictures of the play!

It was so much fun helping out! I hope it becomes a regular part of our Christmas program!

WOW!

2010-12-05T22:12:00.005-05:00

10 month old Drew!! He's all smiles!!!

I know.....it's been more than a month since I blogged! Life just carried me away. Who would have thought just adding one little person into the mix would take so much time! Plus we have been passing around a cold/ virus that has laid me up a day or two. I also had the adventure of taking Drew to CHOP's ER this past week. Nothing serious - he had developed what I thought were hives last weekend and weren't gone by Monday.

The offending hives - they were actually a lot darker and more purple/ red.

The pediatrician wanted to see him and low and behold there was quite a ruckus about them! They weren't your "typical" looking hives and five different doctors took a look at him. When no one could agree on what they were I was sent to the ER for blood work. We got to ER at 5 pm and didn't leave until 1:00 am. Drew was a real champ as they looked and prodded and took blood. The end result? HIVES! He had a virus that was releasing itself through hives. My firstborn does the same exact thing. I was glad that they were being cautious and tested for different things - better to be safe than sorry - but it sure was a long night!

School has been going full force and the kids have been really working hard. Last Friday we had the opportunity to go on a field trip with some other homeschoolers. We went to the Penn Museum at the University of Penn. It was great! Some of my favorite items were this solid and pure crystal ball. Amazing! It took years to create and is the second largest one in the world.

They have mummies and a sphinx and all kinds of neat old things! We had a really fun time and the kids were glad to get out of the classroom for a day of school! Daniel really loved the above tablet with hieroglyphics. He was just fascinated with all the objects found in the museum.

We are currently in the midst of decorating for Christmas. I got the living room thoroughly cleaned and the tree up - but we will decorate it as a family this Wednesday. Drew is a riot! Not quite sure what to make of this huge tree in his house! He is trying to crawl so it will be interesting to see what he does with a tree and crawling as I believe he will get the hang of it before Christmas is through. I will post pictures as soon as we are done! I love how our house looks all decorated with beautiful lights! I'm even putting a tree up in the schoolroom in hopes it will help "lighten" the attitudes that sometimes prevail during the school day!

Please continue to pray for my sister, Lisa. She will start her chemo treatments December 16th. She is going through the University of Penn Hospital for her treatment. They have a fantastic program and the best part is each patient is assigned a scheduler - that person makes all your appointments and deals with the details of treatment and tells the patient when to show up - Lisa has to make no phone calls or deal with getting things lined up at the right time or day. Such a relief to her and clears up her time to focus on getting well! They are sure she will be cancer free within one year. My prayer is that she draws closer to Christ throughout this year and learns to lean heavily upon Him. Thanks for praying!

Life....

2010-11-04T20:58:00.004-04:00

is extremely unpredictable. This past weekend Andy and I were celebrating the fact that it was two years since we found our first bed bug - and that we weren't finding them anymore! Though Daniel gave us quite a scare as he had three "bumps" that itched terrible. We feel they were mosquito bites but thoroughly check his bed and bedroom and didn't find anything and he hasn't had anymore - Praise God! It is amazing how those bugs have transformed our everyday lives, though. We don't really ever forget them and continue to check for them wherever we go. Even our home reflects the fact that we have had them as we have scaled down our belongings quite a bit. I love the newer emptier house - and often wish I could get it even emptier! But with four kids and a husband - there will be stuff! If you do not know what a bed bug is or what it looks like I highly suggest that you go online and find a picture of all five stages and signs to look for. They are everywhere - and have been in the news quite a bit lately! Even new clothing brought home from the store is not safe as several different stores have been infested with the little devils. You may inadvertently bring one home. They are now suggesting putting all new clothing into the dryer on high for at least 30 minutes. Most of our clothing comes from overseas where they don't really consider the bed bug a pest to be dealt with. Eggs can be laid on the clothing and you would never know until it was too late. You can't visibly see the eggs as they are tiny and clear. But high heat will kill them. If you are like me and don't know if you will be keeping the item (Drew outgrows clothes amazingly fast!) I put it in a large Ziploc bag until I know I am keeping it and then throw it in the dryer. If there is a bug on the item at least it will be sealed in the bag. But we are praising God everyday that we are done with them and praying even harder that we never have to deal with them again!

We were also thanking God for the fact that a dear friend had gotten news that he is still cancer free - two years! He had cancer surgery the same day we found out we were dealing with bed bugs. His wife and I commiserated together many a day as both trials threatened to suck the life out of both of us. God brought us both through our trials and we give Him the praise! Without Him we would never have survived!

This past weekend wasn't all good though as I received news that my little sister (we are 13 months apart) was diagnosed with breast cancer. Honestly, of the two of us I thought I would be the one dealing with the disease as she has always eaten healthy, ran and exercised and has just been plain healthier. We don't know the type or how far advanced it is as of yet. She has had an appointment with the surgeon and it looks as if the surgery will be November 22nd. She has to have an MRI first (Nov. 10th) and then they will know more about the cancer. They believe it to be slow growing and in the duct - I think that's the better one to have. Please pray for her and my mom (who is a bit of a mess). Pray also for my nephew as this is probably rocking his world. He's an only child and a quiet kid (12 years old). I'm praying he finds his way through this and learns to lean on God. I am also praying that this trial will draw my sister close to God as she hasn't really been walking with Him the last several years.

So life is unpredictable - but I am extremely thankful to God for His never ending love and faithfulness. Even though I don't know what the future holds - I know the One who holds the future! Praise God!

NINE months!

2010-10-25T12:16:00.006-04:00

How did we get to this point so quickly?!?!? I really can't believe he is nine months old today! It's going way too fast!!! Before we know it he is going to be a toddler running around! I am trying to savour every baby moment!

He is getting very big! He is now sporting 5 teeth and has two more on the verge of pushing through! He is trying to move any way he can! He can get his legs back behind him like he's going to crawl - but hasn't put forward motion to it yet! He is also trying to stand up - pulling on anything that is close by - but just doesn't have the muscle strength in his legs to get up! He will be there before we know it! He isn't sleeping through the night like the others were at this point - he still wakes up around 11ish to nurse and then sleeps until 7-7:30 am. He'll get to the 12 hours like the others eventually! He is such a joy and we are incredibly blessed to have him on our family!

I use to take the other kids to SEARS every three months for their pictures. But then I was spoiled by Carisa's wonderful picture taking skills - and SEARS seems second rate now! We are getting family photos done this Friday - but I still wanted to get some pictures of him on his nine month birthday - so here is my attempt!

A Guest

2010-10-25T10:57:00.005-04:00

Yesterday we had a guest in our house.This is Ladybug (not her real name, obviously!). She is a coworkers daughter and they had a scheduling conflict - so we got the privilege of watching her for a few hours! It was so much fun! The boys were extremely excited to have her over! She is nine months older than Drew. It was fun to watch the two of them interact together as they don't really see each other that much. Drew was really watching her crawl around - I am afraid he was getting far too many pointers! He was also watching how she pulls herself up - again - too many pointers. This morning he was really trying to pull himself up and when he sits on my lap - he tries to stand!!!!! UGH!!! He's going to be up and running before I know it!

Ladybug and Drew got along well - until Drew tried to horn in on Ladybug's snack! It was pretty fun to watch - she handled it really well and let him have a few of her crackers - he is big time into eating real food - though he still makes TONS of faces whenever introduced to something new - you would think he hated the new food - but he often likes it and will eat more.

Ladybug is a true joy! She is really funny and SUCH a girl! She has two older brothers and it is hysterical to watch this family with a little girl! It's going to be so much fun seeing them all grow up! Thanks for letting me watch your precious girl!

The Zoo!

2010-10-16T22:15:00.008-04:00

No, I am not talking about my house - though it often resembles a zoo! Today we went to the Philadelphia Zoo! My mom, Bruce (my step-dad) and all of us went for the day to see the Lego display. They were AMAZING! It was great weather and as an extra it was also Boo at the Zoo. There were several different stations that the kids could trick-or-treat and receive a little gift or candy. They even let some of us adults get some of the treats!!! The Lego's all centered around animals (of course!). I am amazed at some of the things you can get a few (well - quite a few!) Lego's to look like. They also gave away little cards about each of the Lego animals represented and told us how many Lego's it took to build each piece. My favorites were the penguins and the snake. It took 3000 to build each penguin and 6500 Lego's just to build the snake!!!! The biggest one they had was one of a polar bear - but that one is hollow. It still took 95,000 of bricks to create it due to it's size. It was a lot of fun and I hope to get back there one more time before they go - but they are only on display until October 31st. We'll try! Here are some pictures of our fun day!
One very tired baby! But he was great the entire day! Like his new hat? I LOVE IT!!

Look at my little stinker!

2010-10-10T00:51:00.004-04:00

Yes, he is a little stinker! NONE of my other children even attempted crawling until well past 10 months. He is only 8 months and is attempting to do it! I fear my days of a doorstop baby are just about nearing the end! But he is SO stinkin' CUTE! I can't stand it sometimes!

My girl!

2010-10-05T22:39:00.003-04:00

This past Sunday I had the privilege and blessing of witnessing my daughter get baptized by her dad and PopPop John! She has been asking to be baptized for a couple years now, but that also means having family over for lunch afterwards. Well, first we were invaded by the dreadful bed bugs, then our house was a DISASTER afterwards for several months, then I was pregnant and had a baby! So, life was a little crazy there for a while. We finally had a date that we could all work with and Sarah was THRILLED to finally be able to take that step in her profession of faith in Jesus Christ! I am glad we waited as I believe it really meant more to her now than it would have when she was 8 or 9. She has matured and grown in her faith and I believe that she understands more fully what this step means. I am proud of the young lady she is becoming and it brought tears to my eyes to witness her walking in her faith. I keep praying that she will cling to Christ all her days.It was also an honor to have her PopPop John participate in the baptism. PopPop helped baptize Matt five years ago and Sarah wanted him there for her too. He has been a tremendous influence on their lives and encourages them to continue in their walk. More than the words are the prayers that both he and Grammy put up for them. I am glad they have such God-fearing grandparents! I am so blessed to have others praying for my children! Please continue to pray that Sarah would continue on her walk with the Lord.

Ocean City, NJ 2010

2010-09-16T21:10:00.014-04:00

This has been our week of vacation. At first we didn't think we were going to be able to come to the ocean this year as my parents usually rent the house and invite us along. But both have switched jobs this year and are trying to be "good" and decided not to rent a house this year - which we were totally fine with. But as our week started approaching we realized just how much we really enjoy our week at the beach. So I went on the internet and searched for a house that had enough room that we could afford. I had several on a list and then called the realtor in charge of renting. I asked if the owner of the first house on my list would take a lower price than they actually wanted for this week. This house hadn't been rented the last three weeks. The owner agreed to the lower price and we got a great deal! The house is nice, comfortable, plenty of room, GREAT front porch and a close walk to the beach. Best of all we've been having a great week together as a family. Here is our week in pictures.

Day One:

We arrived around 2 pm - the earliest we could get into the house. My parents joined us for the weekend.

Day Two:

This was our rainy day - which was still great! We played games, relaxed, napped, and just chilled!

Day Three:

Our day alone. We relaxed, went to the beach, and hit the boards. I have been reading up a storm!!! Trying to fit in all the reading I can as I can't seem to find a ton of time while I'm at home!Daniel LOVES the beach - has since he was just an infant. He is a true beach baby!Matt is out in the ocean - he's the one on the far right. He has really become quite a fish!! Drew doesn't care too much for the beach right now! He just SAW the water and started to fuss. Here he is lifting his feet as high as he can so he doesn't have to touch it! We'll keep trying!Sarah LOVES the ocean as well! Hard to believe this girl screamed her head off if we even went NEAR the sand when she was two years old!! Glad that didn't last long!

Day Four:

Andy's parents came down for few days! It was so much fun getting to relax with them and actually spend some quality time. We are usually running up for something and haven't really spent time with them this year. We discovered that Drew had acquired two new teeth! His fangs have come in before the two top center ones! Matt and Sarah did the same thing! Daniel was my only "normal" teether!

Day Five:

Gorgeous beach day! Drew doesn't think too much of the beach - though I did get him to play in the sand for a few minutes and actually sit in the water for a few - before he totally lost it and decided it was not for him!

Day Six:
Andy, his parents and the kids take a surry ride in the am. They have a great time! I have been hanging back at the house while Drew takes his morning nap - SUCH a sacrifice!!! It's windy today and we decide to not do the beach.

It's been a great - RELAXING - vacation! I have loved the quiet and all the reading I am doing. I have enjoyed just spending time with the kids and not the pressure and stress of everyday life! I hate to see it end but thank God for allowing us this special blessing!

Drew Update!!

2010-08-16T22:26:00.006-04:00

Drew had a doctor's appointment today! It was his 6 month check-up - a little late but I like this one doctor and waited until I could get an appointment with him. Drew did GREAT!!! The doctor is quite impressed with his alertness and inquisitive looks! He was also impressed with his size! He now weighs 18 lbs. 2 oz. But that is actually in the 50th percentile! So he is completely NORMAL!!! He is 26 inches long - that's in the 25th percentile - so he is SHORT! But Andy isn't worried - he thinks he'll grow up nice and tall! Time will tell!

He isn't quite sitting up on his own. Andy made a comment the other day that trying to sit Drew up was like posing Jell-O! I thought that was pretty funny - and accurate! But the Dr. says he is close to getting there and will likely be cruising before we know it!

Drew made it through the vegetables carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, green beans, and peas. He isn't really fond of green beans! He shudders when he eats them - it's pretty funny to watch. He started bananas this week and LOVES them! He is really enjoying food! The kids are really excited he's eating food and can't wait until he can try some real food. Daniel has been funny wondering what baby food tastes like - I let him try the bananas - he liked them! But he says he'll stick to the real thing.

Life continues to be busy - full of appointments and other commitments. I really can't wait until we can settle into a normal routine. September really can't get here fast enough! Though the kids aren't terribly excited about full days of school. I think we just need to get into a routine and then we'll all be a bit happier. Life seems scattered and out of control - but we are getting through it and will really appreciate the calm that fall/ winter brings!

It's DONE!!!

2010-08-04T21:45:00.007-04:00

Tonight was the big Reading Rocks Party!!!WHEW!!!! It was CRAZY!!!! I think I am getting OLD!!! The party went well - it just seemed to be A LOT more active and busy than I remember! We had A LOT of help - for which I am extremely grateful for! I don't think we would have been able to pull of the party as well as we did without the help of Clover Hill Baptist Church. This group has been AMAZING! They helped me pack 55 bags full of school supplies yesterday.... and did various jobs - such as serving dinner.....checking to make sure each kid had the right school supplies.....and playing with kids on the playground - throughout the entire party - and it was HOT!!! But each of them has such a servants spirit and are really here to work! It has been great!!

We had plenty of school supplies thanks to many hands who hunted and gathered them for me!Special thanks to Pat Folk, Louise Dotterrerr, Doris Heim, Martha Metz, and Lois Schultz! These woman were incredible at finding the deals! Back in May Aunt Louise and Aunt Doris each went to their local Wal-Marts and found $9 backpacks for $1!!! Needless to say - they snagged all they could and we have plenty for next year too! That was a HUGE load off of me as that is the one thing that costs the most and I have to hunt around for! It was such a blessing not to have to lug Drew all over creation to find backpacks for the kids!!! Thank you so much!! The other ladies went to Staples and Wal-Mart and got other much needed school supplies. I really only made two shopping trips this year because we were so well stocked from last year. God knew we would be having a baby this year and I wouldn't have the time - or energy! - to put into the shopping aspect of things. He is so good to me! Thank you ladies for your hard work and love for the kids we work with!

I think the kids had a great time! They seemed pleased with all they got which included: 1 backpack, 5 folders, 2 packs of loose-leaf paper, 2 spiral-bound notebooks, 2 composition books, Crayola broad tip markers, Crayola fine tip markers, Crayola pencils, Crayola crayons (24 pk), 2 glue sticks, 1 white glue, 1 ruler, 1 pencil sharpener, 2 packs of pencils, 1 pack of pencil top erasers, 1 pair of scissors, 1 pack of index cards, 2 pink erasers, and 1 pencil box! Each kid earned it! They worked hard and did well. I think it was our best year yet!

On a personal note - Daniel earned top points earner with a helper! He can't read yet so he needed help. A volunteer would read the story to him, ask him the questions, and then write his answers down for him. He did well! Sarah also earned an overall Fruit of the Spirit Award for Great Focus! She also did well. Matt was too old to participate but volunteered. He did well in stepping out of his comfort zone and worked with little kids reading books to them and helping them answer the questions. Even though he has younger siblings - he doesn't enjoy working with young kids. But I'm proud of the fact that he tried it this summer and found that God can use him even when he isn't comfortable with the task! Drew just hung around with Daddy looking cute most days!

Whew - it's done! I can now relax - right? Probably not! But at least my biggest ministry commitment is done for the year. Now to work on next year!

A Day at the Beach!!

2010-07-29T23:09:00.004-04:00

My attempt at getting a picture of the kids - it didn't go so well!

Wednesday some friends invited us to go to the beach for the day. They had rented a house for the week and let us use their home as a base. It was a great day to go as here it was HOT and HUMID!!! Two words I am extremely tired of hearing!!! But the beach was beautiful!!! A wonderful breeze blowing and clear sunny skies!!! At times it almost felt a little chilly! But I wasn't complaining!!!!!

The kids LOVE the beach! My husband enjoys the beach. Me, not so much!!! I am a red-head and I BURN!!! I have found only one sunscreen that actually protects me - and I forgot it!!! I used what works for the kids, but found out by that afternoon - it wasn't working as well for me. So I am a little crispified - but nothing serious and nothing that will blister. Just a bit of tender skin for awhile. My poor boy, Daniel, is also a burner. My husband screened him up, but somehow some of the sunscreen was either rubbed of by the ocean and sand or never really took to his skin. He is a bit blotchy and looking quite a mess. Thankfully, it wasn't a bad burn, just a bit more pink than I like. But he sure had a blast! He loves the beach more than any kid I know! He loves the water, the sand, the boardwalk - everything!!! He was one tired little boy!

Matt and Sarah enjoyed their day too. Mostly because they didn't have to do school - but they really enjoyed the people we went to see. Everyone slept in today. I think Sarah finally got out of bed sometime around 11:00 am!!! In her defense, though, we didn't get home until midnight! So we were all pretty worn out!! But it was great to spend some time with great friends and enjoying God's creation!! Thanks friends!!!

Drew did pretty well for his first trip to the beach. He mostly just sat with Andy or I and played or slept off and on. Toward the end of our time on the beach we did dip his feet into the ocean. He didn't think too much of it!!! I'll have to figure out how to upload the video we took. He was pretty funny!! He kept pulling his feet up as high as he could to avoid the water! I wonder if he'll end up liking the beach or hating it! Only time will tell!

Firsts

2010-07-26T21:58:00.007-04:00

LOVE the chubb!!!

This week is a week of firsts. First Drew turned six months old this past Sunday! Incredible! I can't believe half a year has already gone by!! He is such an indescribable blessing! And a real cutie!!! He is now rolling all over, sporting two teeth and eating food!! We introduced his first food this past Friday. He is SO happy! He eats like a real champ! No pushing out with his tongue or having to trick him into opening his mouth. He is like a little bird. He sees that spoon and automatically opens his mouth. He is a riot! He looks at me like "Where has THIS been all my life?!?!" We started with carrots and so far he loves them. On Wednesday we'll go on to squash. He is growing so fast!!! Tonight he started pushing off the floor with his feet and scooching. I gave him a stern talking to about the fact that NONE of my other children crawled before 11 months and I was NOT prepared to have one start earlier! Of course he just smiled sweetly (well, maybe with a little evil grin thrown in there!!!). I imagine he is going to be moving a lot sooner than the others. I'll need to start investigating play yards to contain the little mover!Today was also our first day of our new school year!!! Daniel was THRILLED!!! He couldn't wait to start Kindergarten! He was up at the crack of dawn wanting to get started. Matt and Sarah - not so much, though they did pretty well for the first day. Matt, who is starting 8th grade, was a bit grumpy and Sarah, who is starting 6th grade, was in tears before 9:30 am. But Sarah may have had an excuse as tonight while we were in Target she got sick to her stomach - poor girl. She's been looking a little death warmed over since we brought her home from camp - so I guess she had an excuse. Hopefully she'll start feeling better and eating again. She has hardly eaten anything since coming home from camp. She finished her work for the day but was not terribly focused or into it. Maybe when this illness passes she'll perk up and be more into her school year. Matt also finished, though it took him all day to do half a days work. I am just letting him take it at his own pace. He knows what he has to do and that he needs to get it done if he wants to go to God Squad or Teen Club. He made it tonight - though we still need to add in Math, Grammar and Spanish. So we'll see! I have decided not to nag this year - and caught myself several times :-)!!! He needs to own his school work and live with his decisions. It could be an interesting year!

Drew just hung around while I worked with different kids. I wonder if he'll be reading by the time he's two!!!

Tooth #2!!!

2010-07-16T10:04:00.004-04:00

Yup! The second tooth has already pooped through - and this one gave me a huge scare the other night! Drew was cheerfully playing in his bouncy seat when I walked out to the kitchen and came back to find blood trickling down his chin! He was still calm and cheerful - until I whooped him up in a panic to find out where the blood was coming from!! He must have been chewing on his toy at the tender part of the gum and you know how gums bleed!! He was fine - mom was just having a heart attack!He is growing so quickly! He can now roll from his belly to his back and looks at us all so strangely when we clap and make a big deal out of it!! He's also learning to sit up by himself - though his bog ol' head tends to cause him to lean forward - he'll get it soon enough!!! He is once again sleeping through the night (Praise God!) and waking up cheerful and pleasant! I had to take him to the doctor on Wednesday as his rash under his chin had returned and the original medicine they gave me for it was no longer taking care of it. While there they weighed him - he now weighs.......17.6 pounds!!! I thought this was shocking so I went back to see what the other kids weighed at his age. Sarah only weighed 13 pounds at four months!!!! She didn't weigh 17 pounds until she was one year old!!! The boys, however, were different. I didn't remember them being big - but apparently Drew is right on par for a Schultz boy. At five months Matt also weighed 17.6 pounds! At six months Daniel weighed 18.4 pounds - so not a whole lot of difference!!! How come Drew just seems so much bigger? I don't know - but he is the cutest thing on this earth and I love all his chunk!!! Here are some cute pics I took this morning of my cute chunk!!!I am always amazed we can go from this.....to this.... (good shot of the teeth, though!!!)to this.....in a matter of 6 seconds!!! He is a riot!!!

Box Day!!!

2010-07-13T23:04:00.004-04:00

For homeschooling this year I have decided to return to Sonligh Curriculum. It was getting difficult to do things without a plan already done for me and with adding another child to the group of people I need to attend to I needed to have the help that Sonlight gives - a well thought out plan for history and reading and all the thinking done for me!!! Honestly, I kind of regret leaving Sonlight for the past few years - but we have learned a lot and are all excited to be back!!

Lucy really enjoyed box day!!! She just plopped right down in the middle of all the wrapping!!

Sonlight calls the day you get your order "Box Day"! They send an e-mail and make a big deal of when to expect your package and get you all excited about the things that you will be receiving!!! I was already excited - but when the actual box arrived today - YIPPEE!!! I have to say I feel such a relief in knowing what we are going to be doing and being able to plan. I am going to start cleaning the schoolroom tomorrow and then organize all the materials on Thursday. We have a school start date of July 26th! It will be here before I know it and I am praying that I will be ready mentally, physically and spiritually!!!! More than that I am praying that Matt and Sarah (and Daniel, too!) will be ready to start a fresh new school year and have good attitudes throughout the year! Thanks for praying for us as we begin another school year!

FIVE years old!!

2010-07-13T22:27:00.005-04:00

How did this happen??? My sweet Daniel (who at times ISN'T so sweet as of late, but par for the course of a five year old!) is now FIVE!!! Unbelievable!!! I am amazed at the changes in this little guy over the past few months. He can now write his name, knows all his letters by sight, can count pretty high, is asking quite a few (hard) questions about God, and has become a VERY committed big brother! He LOVES Drew and can't wait to teach him all kinds of things and play with him all the fun things he enjoys playing. Daniel has also become pretty good at the Wii - getting less frustrated while playing with a sibling. Of course there are still things that are the same - like his big smile from ear to ear, his laughter, his constant curiosity about EVERYTHING!!! and his tender spirit towards his family members and God. Since this kid has entered my life he has been a blessing and source of great joy!!! He was our "unexpected" miracle child and definitely one God desired to have on this earth!!! I am so blessed and privileged to be his mother. Thank you God for such an indescribable gift in Daniel!!!

Daniel was quite pleased with his cake! He had been WAITING for a whole day as we didn't get to one on his actual birthday!!Daniel with PopPop and Grammy!

The Grands with the crew!!! Drew is crying because we sang Happy Birthday too loud again! Poor boy - he is SO in the wrong family if he doesn't like loud noise!!Daniel LOVES his sister!! The two middles!!

ANOTHER PROJECT!!!

2010-07-11T23:54:00.003-04:00

There are days I am extremely thankful that my husband has the gift of putting things together. After all we went through with the bed bugs and demolition on our house it would have cost us thousands of dollars to do what he did if we would have had to contract out the work. On the other hand - my husband is always coming up with new ideas of what he would like to do to our house. This project was brought up several years ago and tabled because of more pressing needs. But when a friend of ours built his project - it spurred Andy into pursuing his project. What is that project you might ask?

A deck.

Off the schoolroom.

I am not sure how I feel about this project as of yet. (Andy knows all of this as we have discussed it at length!) I am REALLY tired of projects. Especially those that don't get done all the way. I am worried that this project may take longer than projected - especially because he has to take one of the windows OUT of the school room and make it into a door. That means my schoolroom may be a mess for several weeks - to a few months. I hate a mess when I am trying to teach school. It clutters my mind and I am unable to focus on the important things. I also worry about the easy access people may have to the back of the house. It is off Sarah's room and I really don't like that. But Andy is all for this project and seems to believe it will expand our living space. I really can't imagine using it all that much - but then I have never had a deck before either. So, I will continue to pray for the safety of our house and children and pray that this was a wise use of both time and money. And pray that the next project will be to complete the alarm system that was put in about six years ago!

Friday Fun!

2010-07-11T23:23:00.005-04:00

This past Friday was Cow Appreciation Day at Chick-fil-a. We LOVE this activity!!! This was our third year participating. If you dress up like a cow you get a free meal!!! I am a HUGE Chick-fil-a fan and eat there any chance I get - so if it's free you KNOW I'm going to be there! All five of us got a free meal - Drew will have to wait another year!!! Here are some pictures of our fun!

I love how this picture looks like it says I (heart) Drew!!! My herd!!! Aren't they a cute bunch!!!

Daniel was VERY excited about Cow Appreciation Day!!Drew was more into eating his mask than wearing it!!!Friends from Cornerstone! We had such a blast eating with them!!!

Can't wait until next year!!! I'm going to make better costumes for next year since this seems to be a yearly activity!

Birthday Bash!!

2010-07-03T21:49:00.005-04:00

Today we celebrated the kids birthdays. My first three kids are all summer babies - June and July. My sister's son is a July baby as well. (Drew is the odd man out - but we have already decided we will be celebrating his half birthday next year!) So rather than have an individual party for mine and hers we combine them and today was the day. We met at my mom's house - she always puts on an incredible spread - fruit, salad, stuffed shells, shredded roast beef sandwiches! It's incredible! My Aunt Cheryl and Uncle Doug as well as my mom's friends Marie and Jim all joined in the fun. We had a great time and the kids really enjoyed celebrating their day. Here are a few shots of the fun!

Each kid got their own little cake. Matt and Daniel ripped into theirs pretty quick so I didn't get a shot of theirs - but Sarah was savouring hers!Daniel enjoyed his cake!!!
My mom made a giant cupcake for the rest of us and for the kids to blow out candles. Each candles flame burned the color of the candle! It was pretty cool!Daniel got a new bike for his gift from my parents. He was pretty excited!My family from left to right - my sister Lisa, nephew Sam, Bruce, Mom, Daniel, Sarah, Drew, me, Andy and Matt.My parents with the grands!!!
It was a great day!!!

We have a tooth!!!

2010-06-29T19:10:00.012-04:00

Yes, it is official! He has his first tooth. I knew it was coming - he has been a drooling Drew for over a month now - but I felt it last Friday - on his fifth month birthday. I was finally able to get a picture of it. Here it is!!! He has been rather grumpy the past few days and waking up at night again - so I believe the second one is on the move. He is my earliest teether - and my grumpiest! None of my other kids were really phased by teething so this is a new experience. I am hoping it will pass quickly!

Here are a few pictures I snapped while he was happy for a few brief moments!

He was "talking" in this one. He "talks" A LOT now!!!!!

This is why we call him "Drooling Drew" - do you see all that drool!?!?!He sneezed during our photo shoot! I thought it was cute!!!

I know, I know.....

2010-06-26T22:46:00.012-04:00

I said I was going to blog last week - especially because I had two kids with birthdays - but I failed!! This is why I failed: I had been working on these portfolio for weeks and had to turn them into the school by June 21st - as that was the last day of school for Philly and all the staff leaves for the summer. Technically we have until June 30th to report our work - but why fight it? There is no sense and I don't want to be targeted as a "problem homeschooler". So, I worked hard, got the evaluations done and turned them it. Oh! It felt so good to be done with another year.

So that was a week ago - and I think my brain went on vacation! I have been so tired and have done nothing but the necessities - feed the baby, play with the baby, play with the almost 5 yo, feed the crew, and SLEEP!!!! I have done a few loads of laundry and cleaned, but that's about it!! I will start my major cleaning this week - I just needed a break!

My sweet baby turned 5 MONTHS OLD yesterday!!! I can't believe he is that old!! He also presented his first tooth yesterday!! It is gleaming white in his cute little mouth! It made me kinda sad - I so love those gummy smiles!!! He's growing up way to fast! He also tried to roll over to his belly today!!! (I grabbed the camera, but it was on the wrong setting so it didn't turn out that well - but I got a shot!) I so don't want him to grow up!! I love this sweet baby and his grins and giggles!!! Before I know it he will be 5 - just like my third child - or 11 or 13 like my older two. I do love watching them grow and learn - but so miss those days where I could hug and cuddle and whisper lullabies in their ears to calm their tears. Knowing Drew is our last I find myself holding and cuddling all the more - trying to memorize each moment in my heart.

Drew also went in the pool for the first time today. All our other kids are summer babies and have been in the pool as soon as their umbilical cord fell off. It's funny to put a 5 month old in the water! They have more of a reaction than infants!! See what he thought of it.....

But by the end he was smiling!

I'm still tired. Reading Rocks starts next week and I am so not ready for it. I am thankful that I have a lot of the school supply shopping done as I don't know if I have the energy to do it all this summer. Hopefully, Staples will have their deals and I'll be able to get most of the supplies in one spot.

So sorry!

2010-06-15T01:28:00.007-04:00

I know it has been FOREVER since I have last blogged. End of the school year details have been keeping me away. I WILL WRITE more - especially Wednesday and Thursday as I have two children having birthdays! I have so much going on this week. In the mean time - enjoy some sweetness I caught with my camera today. He is really becoming quite a little guy! He's 20 weeks old today!!! I am so in love!!!

17 Weeks/ 4 Months!

2010-05-24T15:15:00.005-04:00

Today Drew is 17 weeks old. Tomorrow he will be 4 months old! WOW!!! Time is just flying and I can't seem to catch up! I know I haven't blogged much lately - I'm really trying to organize the house so that I can have some breathing room this summer. I finally got all the kids winter clothes put away and summer ones out. The nice thing now is that I know I don't have to keep anything Sarah has outgrown as there is no other girl to pass it down to! So I get rid of it - QUICKLY!!!! Matt's stuff I also give away as it will be EIGHT years before Daniel would fit into it and with our limited room that's just too long to keep - plus elastic and stuff doesn't last too long. I have a friend who has kids just a year after ours and they get good use of the stuff. The only stuff I keep now is Daniel's. Drew will be able to wear it in about three years - so I can handle keeping it for that long. Ever since the whole bed bug incident I am not into holding onto things for a long period of time. If it is not in use - WATCH OUT!!!!!Drew has turned into a little person right before our eyes! He is "talking" and playing and just becoming interested in everything! Sarah has just realized that that everything he grabs goes into his mouth! It's funny to see what the older kids notice about Drew that they didn't notice about Daniel since they are so much older now. She is also very into his "talking" and talks to him constantly! I believe he will be speaking full sentences by the time he is 18 months thanks to Sarah's interaction! He is sleeping 11-12 hours at night - which I love! Now I just need to get myself to bed at a decent hour! I also believe that Drew has started the teething process! We currently call him "Drooling Drew!" as he is full of drool! He also has boughts of screaming that are unexplainable and nursing has become quite a challenge at times. I had to take him to the doctor last week for a rash I couldn't get rid of and he now weighs 15 pounds 11 ounces. In almost 4 months he has gained almost 5 pounds! He is one ounce shy of a full five pounds which I believe he has probably gained by today! Needless to say he is doing well!

Our crazy summer schedule begins next Tuesday. I am not looking forward to this summer - there are a lot of changes happening and I don't do well with change. The biggest change is that Matt will be turning 13 and going up to Teen Club and God Squad. Daniel will also start attending 5 & 6 Year Olds. So many people going in so many different directions! It's going to be a crazy summer!

One Year Ago.....

2010-05-16T22:40:00.002-04:00

I couldn't imagine my life as it is today. One year ago today we found our last bed bug - dead! One year ago today I couldn't imagine loving another sweet boy let alone adding one to our family. One year ago today I was still in tears and stressed about the condition of our house.

But SO MUCH has changed in just one year!

First - the bed bugs are gone. Technically we still have 6 months before we can officially declare them GONE as they can live 18 months without a feeding - but we are trusting God for an answered prayer - which I will talk about in the next paragraph. We still look for them and check every fuzzy we find on the floor - but we haven't seen one in a year. PRAISE GOD! I honestly didn't believe we would ever be rid of them and thought we would have to endure life with them forever - but God is faithful even to those without strong faith. I learned a great deal about myself and my God and am more in love with Him this year than last. He is strong and can handle my tears, anger and frustration and still love me with a fierce love that can get me through the toughest trials! I also learned that less is more. I don't need a lot of stuff cluttering up my life. I am still de-cluttering our house but it is in far better condition than it was when the whole bed bug thing started in October of 2008!

Second - we have a new son! He is perfect (well in MY eyes!) and adorable and so sweet I just want to eat him up! Last spring I remember praying that if God would allow it to bless us with another child. But I put a condition on that child - that He wouldn't allow us to get pregnant until the bed bugs were gone. I knew (and so did He!) that I could not handle the stress of bed bugs and pregnancy at the same time! When I took the home pregnancy test on May 29th - I knew the bed bugs were gone. God is faithful and loving and I viewed that pregnancy as a sort of promise that the bed bugs were gone. The pregnancy had a lot of ups and downs - and was my most stressful pregnancy right up to the end - but God is so good to me and brought us all through it safely and having learned much! We are all in love with Drew and view him as a miraculous gift from God!

Third - I never thought our house would look THIS GOOD! It is completely different! Andy did an amazing job and I continue to love the house I live in (though I sometime wish it were in a different area!). I know I haven't posted many pictures of it all new and what not. Right now it is a disaster area with just getting back from vacation and getting the clothes all switched over. Since school is done I will have time to totally clean it from top to bottom and then I will post the before and after shots - you will be amazed! So the biggest blessing from the bed bugs is a new house from the inside out!

It is fun (now) to look back on last year and see how God has carried me through some of the toughest trials I have faced in my life. I am glad my friend encouraged me to start a blog so that I have a chronicle of exactly how I felt during those times and can look back and see God's faithfulness. I know I will face other trials - but I can also look back and see God's faithfulness and KNOW without a doubt He will continue to be faithful. Thank you, Father, for your deep love for me!

LIFE!!!

2010-05-04T20:16:00.010-04:00

I have been falling behind on my blog posting. Life is a bit crazy with trying to wrap school up for the year and get portfolios together. Plus taking care of this cutie takes up a lot of time!I am also really trying to keep up on all the housework - namely laundry! I can't believe how much laundry we produce! But the wonderful thing is that I now have a a washer and dryer UPSTAIRS!!!! See ~ Isn't it great! I am SO thankful that I don't have to trudge down to the basement and lug everything back upstairs! Thank you, Andy! Never in my wildest dreams did I ever imagine that I could have a laundry room upstairs! But Andy made it possible when he had to gut the entire hallway in February 2009 due to the wicked bed bugs. So something GOOD did come from that dreadful situation!Drew is now 3 months old! Goodness! Time is just flying but we are so enjoying him! He has the greatest smiles! He cries far less now a days and is getting into quite a routine. He sleeps through the night and is ready for bed at 6:30 pm! I still wake him at 11:00 pm to feed him one last time, but he then sleeps until 7-7:30 am! He is a dream! Sarah and Daniel still fight over who can hold him and love to talk with him and play with him. We all love seeing who can get the biggest smile out of him! Daniel is doing well and is constantly begging to do school! I think I have discovered the secret to having kids like school - don't do it with them! Daniel begs to do math and reading. He would do a workbook everyday if I let him! But trying to deal with Matt and Sarah sometimes leaves little time with my preschooler. However, he knows all his letters and numbers and can count up through 20. He is also writing his name (with a little help with the N)! He is drawing really cute pictures of us and we love the explanations behind each one! His current passion is Lego's! He is constantly building something with the many that he finds around the house!

I am planning on doing the preschool program I was suppose to do with him this past year, this summer. I have decided to school year round. As you may have guessed this is an EXTREMELY popular decision with the older two! I don't believe Daniel will fuss at all and Drew will never know the difference! I think it will be easier in the long run and I can then break some of the subjects down into "semesters". I often find it difficult to fit both science and history in together. It will also give us a little wiggle room throughout the year so if I feel I (or the kids) needs a day off we can do so without the pressure of finishing on time! So pray for me and the kids - that we would be able to do the work and really learn. Pray especially for Matt as he is really struggling with motivation and making the school work his own. I have stopped nagging him this week and in the past two days he has only gotten spelling done. Andy and I are frustrated. But the nagging was just causing strife between us and wasn't really working. Until Matt decides to do the work, it won't get done. He's always been that way - he has to decide things and when he does things happen. It is a waiting game at this point. If he doesn't finish his work by June 1st he may be repeating 7th grade. So pray for him and us!

Sarah is almost finished her 5th grade year. All her course work will be done this week! It wasn't our best school year as I feel I wasn't really the teacher I wanted, or needed, to be. I already have plans in the works for changing next year. I really need to focus on spelling and math with her. One reason we are doing school year round is because she tends to lose a lot of information even over a short period of time. She needs constant repetition to remember all that she has been taught. She is excited for the summer as we just registered her to go to Camp Sankanac! I grew up at that camp and I am so glad she loves going there! She really wanted to go for two weeks, but our summer is looking really busy, so we told her next year she can go for two weeks.

Thanks for all your prayers. Next week we head to Williamsburg, VA! It is our final field trip of the year! So be looking out for some fun posts of our time there! Also pray for our travels as this is Drew's first LONG trip and I have no idea how it will go! Thanks!

I'm 12 Weeks Old and I'm SOOOO Happy!

2010-04-19T16:45:00.006-04:00

Here are a few of the cute photos I took of our 12 week old boy! He has changed so much! Here is a photo from the first day of his life:This is today! It is amazing how much changes in just 12 weeks! I thank God for him daily!

Well, I'm happy MOST of the time!

The Thumb Wins!

2010-04-18T22:10:00.005-04:00

Yes, I am afraid we have a thumb sucker! I really tried to get him to like the beebee (that's what Daniel named the pacifier), but Drew has decided he prefers the thumb. This is how I find him in his bed anymore!!!He continues to sleep through the night and even "overslept" this morning! He didn't wake up until 8:00 am! He went more than 9 hours without eating! I am used to him waking between 6 and 7 am. I guess I will have to start setting the alarm clock again!

He was really alert in church this morning and everyone was commenting on his "Hershey Kiss" eyes! They are looking rather chocolaty and BEAUTIFUL! I love his eyes! They are so expressive and so gorgeous to look at! I never thought I would have a dark eyed boy. Matt has light hazel eyes, Sarah has green/blue eyes and Daniel has blue. I just assumed he would follow everyone else - but he got brown - and they did I mention that they were beautiful?!?! Now if he would have only been a redhead! He would have had the perfect combination! I guess those German traits beat out my Irish ones - oh well!

We only have three more weeks of class work and then we are taking a week of vacation and finishing school in Williamsburg, VA! We have been studying American History this year and have really been looking into Colonial times. We went last October, but I was pregnant and sick and it rained the entire time we were there. It was a nice trip - but I am hoping this one is much better! It will be fun to have Drew with us in body instead of inside my body! He does well in a carrier, so he will do just fine! Please pray for the kids as they finish up their school work. Please pray for me as I work on their portfolios. This has been a crazy year and I have not kept up on some things like I should have. I really need to pull things together!

Isn't he just wonderful? He really is a tremendous gift from God!

11 Weeks!

2010-04-12T20:54:00.005-04:00

All day today I had Drew one week older than he really is - I kept thinking he was 12 weeks old - but he is only 11! I am not trying to rush things - just brain dead!!! I don't think my brain will ever really recover from this pregnancy - too much shrinkage went on I think! Anyway, my sweet boy is 11 weeks old today and he is a real pleasure 90% of the time! He is really starting to settle into babyhood. He doesn't cry as much as he used to - though still has bouts of hysteria for seemingly no reason at all (like tonight at a birthday party!). He is REALLY smiling at all of his siblings and Andy and I. Matt is most impressed with this and feels that Drew likes him the best - it could be! Drew is also making all sorts of cute cooing sounds! It really sound like he is having an entire conversation with you! He looks at you and "talks" and "talks" and "talks"! Why should he be different than the first three - they are all talkers! Andy and I find this hysterical since we are really not talkers - we much prefer a quiet and peaceful setting - not our kids! They can't stand silence and fill every void with speech! I have a feeling Drew is going to follow in their footsteps!

The best thing about Drew right now though is that he is sleeping 8+ hours at night!!!! I lay him down between 7:00 and 8:00 pm, feed him around 10:30 pm and then he's good until about 6:30 pm! YAY!!! Now if I could only force myself to go to bed at the same time I'd be set! I think one reason is starting to sleep longer at night is the fact that he found his thumb! We really tried to get him to like a pacifier - but I believe he is opting for the thumb. Matt and Sarah both sucked their thumbs. Daniel took a pacifier. It was much easier to break Daniel of his bad habit than it was the older two. Oh well! It looks cute while they are little!I started back at the gym last Saturday and it felt so good! I am so glad to be back exercising. My goal is to lose the last 16 pregnancy pounds by September and then continue on the weight loss journey I started before I got pregnant. I really need to lose the weight - I just want to be done with the diabetes and high triglycerides. I'd like to live long enough to see Drew have a family - if I'm going to do that I need to be healthy now!

Easter Weekend (a little late!)

2010-04-06T23:24:00.010-04:00

We had an extremely busy weekend! It all started Friday with a visit to my dear friend and most kindred spirit, Donna. I hadn't seen her since August of last year! It was a visit that was LONG overdue! Plus she just had to meet Drew! I can't believe we only live about an hour from each other and yet it's so difficult to get together - but she has six kids and now I have four - it just gets a little interesting in the scheduling department! But we finally got our acts together and up we went to the suburbs! It was a beautiful day and Drew did amazingly well! It was just great to see her and talk to another adult! Our kids get along super well - maybe because they have all known each other since they were born! They all consider each other their best friend. Maybe our friendship has made them all comfortable with each other. It will be fun to see what the next few years bring as our oldest enter into teenage hood!Saturday we ventured up to the in-laws. Each year, if the weather is decent, we try to hold an Easter egg hunt for our kids. Andy's home church used to have a big one the Saturday before Easter, but no one wanted to take on the responsibility for it anymore and so it is no more! But we have enjoyed doing it for our kids. This year Jonathan, Andy's brother's grandson, joined us! It was good! We hid 140 plastic eggs with all sorts of junk in them (some even with coins!). we only lost 1! The kids had a blast and it was another gorgeous day! They were pretty dirty and worn out - always a sign of a good time!

Can you find the egg?

Sunday was Easter Day! We had to wake up a bit early and be at church early for the two services that our church held. The kids sang in both services and they all did a great job! They all looked great in their Easter attire thanks to MomMom!

After the services we headed up to my parents for another egg hunt put on by my mom and a ham dinner. It was nice and relaxing as it was just my sister and her son and Andy and our kids. Usually we have all kinds of family - aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews - but this year my mom kept it low key. It was great!

My four on the left and my nephew Sam! He should have been mine with the red hair!
Poor worn out baby!

10 weeks old!

2010-04-01T23:09:00.010-04:00

Drew in his Palm Sunday finery! He's such a little man!

Yes, Drew was ten weeks old this past Monday! Unbelievable! I can't believe that much time has past already! Life is just flying by. I am trying to appreciate each moment - though some moments are easier to appreciate than others! Drew has taken to crying A LOT throughout the day unless he is in someones arms or outside! We are working on this, but it is a process! I am extremely thankful for this little guy and at each cry I remember that this is just a season. Before I know it he will be happy and talking and running around with the rest of the bunch! He is still sweet - and I do love holding and cuddling him! Here are several photos I took this week. He's such a cutie! Drew is getting big! Daniel can hardly hold him anymore! Though he still loves to do so!His hand caught his eye here! First time I noticed he discovered his hands!

He discovered the water as well! He just let his hand feel the water! It was funny to see him love the water so much!

This is my new favorite photo! He is smiling much more these days! When he's not wailing!Sarah was getting him to smile! He loves his siblings!

TWO MONTHS!

2010-03-25T23:00:00.007-04:00

Where has the time gone! I can't believe Drew is two months old today! It is just flying! He is getting a bit more of a personality and is definitely not happy just doing nothing anymore - he wants to be up and looking around and interacting with people. He is holding his head up pretty well and is staying up for longer stretches of time. I love his little sounds that he is making and the flash smiles I get every now and then.I love his dark eyes and his cute little feet (the only thing little about him!) I love how he holds the collar of my shirt when he is nursing. I love how he responds to all his siblings - with a big toothless grin! He is amazing and I am so in love! Isn't he just wonderful?!?!
I thank God for him everyday!

I have a great life!

2010-03-16T21:55:00.005-04:00

I so do! I have four amazing children - complete miracles in my eyes. I have a great husband who was even willing to spend 24 hours outside a Chick-fil-a to earn 52 free #1 combo meals because he knows it's my favorite eatery! I have a wonderful church family who takes a special interest in my kids and me! I work with a great bunch of people who really care for one another and are joyful in our joys and sorrow with our sadness! I have a beautiful house that is safer than it was 17 months ago - and definitely more beautiful due to the hard work of my incredibly talented husband! There are many days when I don't take the time to think on these things and instead think on all that is going wrong and lose my focus on what is really important. I am trying to turn that around. I know it won't always be easy - there are times when my four miracles drive me INSANE and I don't think they are miracles at that point! There are times when my wonderful husband isn't so wonderful in my eyes and he drives me INSANE! But I also know that at times I am INSANE according to my husband and children! But I serve an awesome God who is going to help me in this area of my life and continue the good work He began so many years ago!

Here are a couple of pictures of two of my miracels - these two really are true miracles as both of their births were complicated and only here because of God's faithfulness. I really need to start taking more pictures of the older two so I can post them as well!

My chunky monkey! He's getting so big!

I love his hair! It is the perfect shape up! And his eyelashes are really coming in nicely!

(Blogger is giving me a hard time tonight about photos - I'm tired! I'll put more up tomorrow!)

My Crazy Husband!

2010-03-10T21:12:00.005-05:00

Yes, he is crazy - but I guess that is what makes him such a great youth pastor, father, and husband. He is, at this very moment, in line with 99 other people awaiting the opening of our new Chick-fil-a restaurant! Chick-fil-a always has a grand opening party and the first 100 customers get 52 Chick-fil-a sandwich combo meal vouchers! The only requirements are that you need to stay at the store for 24 hours and be one of the first 100! So Andy ventured over at 5:30 this morning and has been there all day! We went over to visit with him twice, a bit after lunch and at dinner. We will see him in the morning. I so would have joined him if I didn't have a 6 week old baby and it wasn't going to dip into the low 40's tonight. The kids would have had a blast! Maybe another time! But here are some photos of the tent city set up in Kensington!
We are very excited for this Chick-fil-a to open. The owner, Oscar, is a dedicated Christian and has really linked up with our church by hiring more than 20 of our members! It is such an answer to prayer for many of the families in our neighborhood as jobs are scarce. Please pray for Oscar and the many members of our church that are working here. Pray that the relationship would stand strong and that God would be honored in it all!

My growing boy!

2010-03-10T20:57:00.003-05:00

This is the outfit Drew wore to come home from the hospital. It is a Carter's size 3 month! It says the weight goes up to 12.5 pounds. Today is the LAST day he will wear this outfit and I just about had to S-Q-E-E-Z-E him into it! He has definitely grown in the last 6 weeks! You can see in the photo the zipper just about popping! I went to the Carter's store in Franklin Mills a few weeks ago and they had the same outfit in size 12 month on clearance ($3.99) so I got it in hopes he will be able to wear it next winter. His growing has to slow down eventually - right?

6 Weeks!

2010-03-08T19:32:00.003-05:00

There is something about 6 weeks. It seems as if he has always been here. But at the same time just arrived! We are starting to figure each other out - like I know when he is grunting and groaning after a feeding he is going to fill a diaper! I also know his little tired cry and then there is his whaling scream letting me know that he is hungry and wants to be fed NOW!!! He is starting to smile a little in recognition of a face - especially his own! He loves laying on the baby gym and looking in the mirror. He still cries a bunch and isn't sleeping during the day too much but we are getting into a bit of a routine. He eats about every three hours during the day and goes for 4 1/2 -5 hour stretches at night. His left clavicle is completely healed and he uses his left arm the same as his right. In fact you would never know there was ever anything wrong with his left arm. God is so good! (Matt took the photos of me and Drew!)Right now I am feeling miserable. I have a sinus thing going and would love to just sleep - but Drew hasn't been very cooperative and Andy has been busy with God Squad things. Poor Daniel is feeling a bit under the weather as well - though it hasn't slowed him down any! Andy was sweet and ran to Target to get me some Dr. approved Sudafed PE and I am hoping it will kick in soon. I am hoping that Drew will not get sick and that he will stay perfectly healthy!

My baby burrito!

Some cuteness!

2010-03-04T21:18:00.008-05:00

Here are a few photos I've taken this week of my big five week old boy! It is funny how he is starting to become more alert to those around him and is sleeping for longer stretches of time. He is getting more pleasant and not crying as much as the previous weeks. He is a sweetheart and we are all still quite taken with him!

This was really funny - I caught Daniel playing with the baby gym with Drew! He was talking up a storm into the mirror!

Art Auction

2010-03-03T23:24:00.007-05:00

The auctioneer!

In Kids Club the leader, Trish, challenged the 7-10 year olds to bring in money to help the kids that have been effected by the earthquake in Haiti. Sarah has taken this challenge to heart and has been trying to figure out ways to earn money to help her team - the 9 and 10 year olds - raise the most money. For Valentine's Day she opened up a designer card shop and Andy and I purchased our cards for each other from her! They were quite good!

Some of the art work!

A picture with the artist!

A few weeks ago she, Daniel, and Matt could be found in the school room creating art. She created signs that stated there would be an art auction. The first two weeks is was to happen things came up and we had to turn the huge crowd away :-)!!! Well, this past Sunday, Andy's parents called and surprised us by coming down. Sarah was excited to have a couple extra people to auction her, Matthew's and Daniel's art! It was fun! The competition was steep! Some of the pieces went for more than $1!!!! All three kids had fun and were quite proud of the work they had done. I am proud that my girl is thinking of ways to help kids she hasn't even met find a better life and help them out of the devestation they now face.

Part of the auction crowd!!

One Month Old!!!

2010-02-25T22:33:00.006-05:00

My baby is one month old today! I am so thankful! Never in my life did I dream we would have a fourth child and during the whole pregnancy I wondered how I could possibly love another child as much as I love the first three - but I am so in love with this little guy! He is absolutely amazing to me! He is cute and sweet and cries like a banshee - but I don't care - he is a miracle to me! One of my favorite things to witness is the love Daniel has for Drew. He has been so wonderful and loving - at times a little too hands on - but I can't help but let Daniel "cuddle" Drew. Drew is really starting to watch Daniel and just listen to him talk to him. I continue to pray that they will have a wonderful and close relationship.So what is Drew like at a month? He sleeps great - only waking up twice during the night and going right back down. He is a morning child - when he wakes between 6 am and 7 am he wants to stay awake - while Andy and I are still tired!!! Andy has been sweet and has been taking him downstairs so that I can get an extra hour of rest. Drew eats well only taking about 10 - 15 minutes to eat - he's quite efficient! He is also a spewer! We call him Sir Spews A Lot! It is a wonder he gains any weight with all that comes back out! He is currently wearing 3 month sizes clothing, but is quickly going into 6 month size! He is a big boy, but so great to hold - a real cuddle bug! He is really starting to become more alert - watching the kids do things, looking at himself in a mirror, and turning his head to our voices. He is wonderful and we are all so thankful to have him as a part of our family!

Four Weeks Old

2010-02-22T21:58:00.004-05:00

Unbelievable! I really can't believe he's been here for four weeks - time has flown by! It was a rough day, however. He cried the entire day - starting at 4:30 am - except for the 2 1/2 hour nap he took from 11:00 - 1:30 pm. I felt bad for him. But nothing I did consoled the poor boy. Thankfully, he is currently asleep and will hopefully have a decent night. You know it is a bad day when Daniel - who absolutely ADORES Drew - says "Can he go to sleep now?"!!! I thought that was pretty funny! Daniel was a trooper and endured his little brothers loud screams while doing school. He's learning tolerance - right?

So here are some pictures of Drew at four week. He was weighed this morning - with clothes on - and was 12 pounds 15 ounces!!! I just can't believe he has gained another 1 pound 12 ounces in two weeks! That's almost a pound a week! I am hoping he'll slow down one of these days as soon he will be in 6-9 month sized clothing!

I did it!

2010-02-20T21:32:00.005-05:00

What did I do? I ventured out to stores with ALL FOUR KIDS! I wasn't sure how it would go - I can't really corral Daniel in the jogger stroller as I need it for the baby - but it turned out fairly well. We went to Franklin Mills to get our free Auntie Anne's pretzels! Daniel REALLY loved this! I really wish I had brought my camera as he had cinnamon EVERYWHERE!!! Since we were there I stopped in at Osh Kosh and Carter's to see what clearance items they had for next winter. Carter's had a ton of stuff for Drew and I got several outfits and pj's for CHEAP! I didn't pay more than $4.99 for an outfit! I also love Carter's because they have an open ended return policy - if it doesn't fit this coming winter I can take it back and get reimbursed for the original price I paid!

We also hit Toys R Us (Sarah and Daniel had gift cards burning holes in their pockets!) and Wal-Mart. I usually don't go near Wal-Mart on a Saturday - but I needed a new electric pencil sharpener (our other one DIED!) and envelopes for the baby announcement that my wonderful friend Carisa made for me. I need to get them out by Monday. Here is a preview:

It's funny how much his face has changed already! He doesn't look nearly that pudgy anymore! Isn't she amazing! I just love them!

So cute!

2010-02-18T20:16:00.005-05:00

Yes, he's a cutie! His shirt announces to all that he is the "little" brother! Daniel loves this shirt because he is no longer the "littlest" brother! But what I found really cute is the next story!

For Valentine's Day my mom purchased the Hallmark recordable book for Daniel. It is such a cute book and Daniel LOVES that MomMom is reading it to him every time he opens the pages! At the end MomMom tells him she loves him and he says "I love MomMom!" each time the story ends. He really enjoys this book. He enjoys it so much I caught him doing this.....It was so cute! And Drew looks like he's really enjoying it! Daniel loves spending time with Drew and is REALLY anxious for him to grow up so he can play with him!

Daniel has been doing really well in school and begs to do it everyday. I am hoping that I will have some time this weekend to pull all the things I want to do with him together. Drew is starting to lengthen his time between feedings and is sleeping for some good stretches - so I really want to take advantage of that time and get school organized. I have been neglecting it terribly and really need to get my act together to finish our year better than it started!

Life is CRAZY!

2010-02-16T22:23:00.005-05:00

Drew - 3 weeks old (yesterday)

I didn't even get my camera out today! I am so sad - I was really trying to get photos everyday - but life just got crazy! It started out with the three older kids and Andy going over to the Darrow house to celebrate Faschnacht Day. There is a bakery around here that makes the most incredible faschnacts! They are wonderful! Aunt Denise always brings some over to the Darrow's and they are kind enough to share them with us. I didn't go over because it was almost time for Drew to wake up and eat and I was no where near ready to go out in public! So Drew and I had a relaxing morning while the kids got hyped up on sugar!

I also tried to be creative in my dinner for this evening. I used to have a great recipe for Beef Stew - but I have lost it. So I just threw things in the crock pot as an experiment. It didn't turn out too badly. It should have cooked a bit longer, but it was pretty tasty. Sarah ate it so it couldn't have been too bad! I think I need to add peas or some other green veggie. I am trying to use the crock pot more so I don't have to think too hard about dinner as that is usually when Drew wants to eat! I am also trying to use ingredients that I have on hand. I am trying to see how long I can go without going to the grocery store. We have only gone to get some fresh produce and milk - but the snow has helped me stay away from the grocery store - I actually haven't driven our van for more than three weeks! It will probably feel weird when I do get behind the wheel again!

Drew - 3 weeks old - a pretty good sleeper!

Daniel and I did a bunch of school today. He is so into it! We focused on cutting with scissors and writing exercises. He LOVES mazes! He does really well with them. I am going to have to find a harder maze book - he is starting to tell me the ones I am having him do are too easy! He's so funny. He loves to be challenged - so different from Matt and Sarah! He is also into the alphabet. He is really putting the sounds together with the letters - I think he'll be reading before I know it! I am amazed at what he already understands! I wonder where he would be if it weren't for the bed bugs and the pregnancy - boy! Sometimes I feel like I've lost so much time with him - but God is good and will do the work that needs to be done in my sweet boys life!

Matt is struggling with getting school done in a timely fashion and as a result missed out on going to preteens tonight. Andy and I decided that we just really need to stand firm with him in regards to the rules we have set for him. One rule is that he needs to finish his school work before going to preteens. He had four math problems that weren't done. I felt terrible, but he wasn't done - so he suffered the consequences. Hopefully, he will take this experience to heart and start putting more effort into getting his work accomplished.

Sarah has been super helpful this week - really trying to get her school work done and doing little chores here and there to help me out. She vacuumed the living room today - it really needed it! I am very thankful for all her efforts this week!

Life is crazy - but I wouldn't trade it for anything! We are all doing well and I am so thankful for each blessing God has given me - especially the four lives he has entrusted to our care! Please pray for each one as they grow and strive to do their best for God.

The Drew Debut!

2010-02-15T11:39:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was Drew's first time out to church! He was quite a draw! Everyone had to see the HUGE baby! I loved the comments! "He is so HEALTHY!" "He has the chubbiest cheeks!" "He looks like he eats well!" Yes, my boy is a good eater and he sure is healthy looking! But I think of all my kids Sarah wins the chubbiest cheeks award!

We also went to visit my parents yesterday. It was the first day I have attempted to go anywhere - and it wore me out! I was in bed my 10:00 pm! I didn't even watch the ice skating pairs - one of the Olympic events that I love - but I was just too tired! It was great to see my mom and Bruce! We hadn't seen them since the hospital. She made the most incredible lunch! Chicken Corn Chowder, mini-hoagies, deviled eggs, salad - YUM!!!! My sister and nephew were also there and they met Drew for the first time! We only spent a few hours there, but it was sure great to get out of the house for a little while. It was a good first trip for Drew as my parents only live about 45 minutes away and I could feed him before we left and then let him sleep in the car. I have to be honest - I have been a bit thankful for the snow and the excuse we have to go anywhere! I always find it hard to travel with a newborn and have been content to stay at home. The kids were thrilled to get out of the house! They have been cooped up far too long as Andy has been pretty busy and hasn't been able to take them out. I really wish we had a backyard that they could go out in - but it is too full of construction stuff. It will hopefully be cleaned out this spring!

Some good news is that Drew lifted his left arm above his head today! He was doing his little newborn stretch after waking this morning and his left arm mimicked his right arm! I was thrilled and think I scared the poor kid when I did a little Hooray!!! He is three weeks old today and I am excited that he is making such progress! I'll try and capture a picture of it if he does it again. So check back later today! Thank you for all your prayers! God has truly blessed us with this new little guy!

It's such a shame!

2010-02-13T22:02:00.005-05:00

....that you can't tell Daniel loves his little brother!
And I believe Drew loves Daniel! Daniel has a way of calming Drew down - and he is quite proud of himself when he gets Drew to stop crying! I am really praying that this relationship will bloom into something beautiful! I am so thankful God gave us another son to pal around with Daniel!

Since Drew's birth I haven't been to church - the first Sunday was too cold and the last Sunday was too snowy. I am going to attempt to go tomorrow - it is a Drew debut! I can't wait for everyone to meet him! He's such a great little guy. I am a bit nervous about his cooperation level - when he wants to eat - he lets the world know it! I think he thinks he is starving! But hopefully we'll get through tomorrow without a hitch! We'll see!

Winter Wonderland!

2010-02-11T22:56:00.010-05:00

Some photos of our winter wonderland. This one is taken from the front window. Our poor bush is looking a bit sad!Our house! There is a TON of snow in the front yard!As close as Drew will get to the snow this year! When the door opens and he feels the chilled air he just howls! He hates the cold! My cutie sitting in front of the window. He was itching to just get outside - maybe tomorrow!Hi! Just chillin' today!

It looks like he is smiling at his sister in this photo! He doesn't smile in response to us yet, but he does have a really cute smile when one gets out!

Look at me!

2010-02-10T21:06:00.005-05:00

My two youngest boys were showing off today! See.....Daniel is really into his Aquadoodle. You can see in the middle the word "God". He is really into spelling that right now and can do it all on his own! I think he's going to be a good speller! He is also into drawing happy faces! We did a bunch of school today and he was pleased as punch to do it. I am amazed at his coloring skills and the abilities he has already. I am thanking God that it doesn't matter what I do - that He is in control and will allow Daniel to progress as far as he needs to to do what He has called him to do!

My little guy can now do this.....See that left arm up in the air? Last week he wasn't able to do that! He is really progressing and we are praying for a full recovery in the next few months. He goes back to the orthopaedist February 24th for x-rays and a progress check. Hopefully, all will be well by then.Isn't his outfit cool? It's a shame he will probably only wear it one more time as it is a 0-3 month outfit and only goes up to 12.5 pounds. The pants are already a bit snug in the waist. I so wish I had had this outfit for Daniel - our little rocker! Maybe this is a sign that Drew will be a rocker as well! We'll see!

We had another 14 inches or so of snow fall upon the city today - making it the snowiest winter on record! I don't believe we'll be getting to see anyone before spring! Our street is totally snowed in and it doesn't look like we'll be getting out anytime soon! It has been an amazing winter. It is beautiful to look at from my window! I am so glad Drew is here already and we aren't worrying about how to get to the hospital! Praise God!

So Thankful!

2010-02-09T20:45:00.007-05:00

MomMom sent talking Valentine's to the kids - Daniel loves his!

I have to say how thankful I am to some of the families in our church who are so generous with both their time and resources. Since Drew was born we have received several great meals. For those of you that know me - I hate to cook - so these meals were an incredible gift to me and definitely spoke my love language! Tonight I was blessed with another unexpected meal. Tuesdays are crazy days as Andy doesn't get home until about 5 pm and then he is out the door by 6 pm with Matt and Sarah for Kids Club. This was my first night home alone with Daniel and Drew and I really wondered how it was going to go. Drew cooperated most of the evening and I was able to spend some quiet time with Daniel. He chose to watch a movie, "Hotel for Dogs". We sat snuggled up on the sofa together until he fell asleep! I really miss spending that time with Daniel - he is such a sweetheart. I have to grab those moments whenever I can! Before I know it he'll be a 12 year old and won't want to be with his mom! Drew is doing well, though today he doesn't want to settle down to sleep. I am hoping he is wearing himself out for sleeping tonight! I have to start tracking what I am eating as maybe that is what is contributing to his unsettled behavior today. Of course, it could just be he is starting to wake up and realize there is more to life than sleeping! I forget what it is like to have a newborn and have to remember what to do with little people again! Well, it's snowing already here in Philly - round 2 of snow this week. They are forecasting a foot to 18 inches - on top of the 28.5 we already have! This could be our snowiest winter yet! Andy and I think it is funny that we have lived in Philly for the top three snowstorms ever! And still after all these years Philly has no idea what to do with all the snow it gets! The mayor keeps telling the neighborhoods it can't plow the side streets because they are too narrow - you would think they would start purchasing some smaller plows to do the side streets. What we can't figure is that trash trucks are what is often used to plow the streets - the same trash trucks that go down these narrow street to collect the garbage. Oh well! We continue to live on an unplowed street and will hopefully thaw out before Easter!

The Stats

2010-02-08T17:13:00.006-05:00

My brain still hasn't fully recovered from this pregnancy. I knew Drew had a doctor's appointment today - I thought it was at 1 pm - it was really for 10:30 am! Fortunately it was just a weight check and they fit me in. I was glad since Andy drove us all down there and it would have been a real pain to reschedule!

Guys watching the Super Bowl!

Drew is two weeks old today and is doing beautifully! With all the others I remember the doctors taking both weight and length checks - this doctor only does weight. By two weeks the doctors like to see the baby regain their birth weight - which for Drew was 10 pounds 12 ounces. Today he weighed in at 11 pounds 3 ounces! Not only did he regain his birth weight, but he also gained 7 ounces! I laughed as the doctor said they like to see babies gain about 30 grams a day and Drew has been averaging 53 grams a day! I guess my worries about him taking the bottle the first 24 hours and then nursing him were for nothing! He has taken to nursing like a champ and hasn't had a bottle since the night he came home from the hospital. He is also becoming more efficient as he only takes about 30 minutes from beginning to end - so nice for the middle of the night feedings!

It really is amazing that Drew has only been with us for two weeks - I rally can't remember what life was like before Drew joined our family. He has just fit right in. He is a mild mannered, easy going kid - so far!

Daniel just loves him and loves holding him whenever possible. Daniel is starting to get a bit emotional - crying and asking for lots of hugs. We are trying to spend tons of time with him and do some extra things with him, but I guess it is inevitable that he have some emotions with not being the baby anymore. Overall, he is doing well. He has been amazing me with his knowledge. In all honesty I have not spent a lot of time doing school with Daniel. I have felt terrible about it. But somehow he knows all his uppercase letters and can count up through 30! It really is amazing what kids learn when surrounded by older siblings! The other day he asked how to spell GOD. I told him the letters and this is what he wrote on his AquaDoodle (a great toy he got for Christmas!). So it's backwards! I was amazed as we have never even worked on writing letters! I am determined to start working with him full time next week. I think he is going to be a great student!

Matt and Sarah have been having a hard time getting back into the swing of school. After having a week off for the baby and then two days off the previous week for staff retreat - they really don't want to be doing school! But we are pressing on and have gotten several subjects in each day. I am determined to get full school rolling again by the end of the week. The coming snow should help as we can't go anywhere and I can get a "normal" day in without any interruptions! Please pray for the three older kids - that we would spend the right amount of time with each one and be encouraging towards them. Thanks for all your prayers!

Every one of our kids has been an afghan baby. Matt received his first and most loved blanket from Dorothy Schultz as a shower gift. He received many other afghan baby blankets - but that one was his DeeDee (what he called it!). Sarah and Daniel both received their afghans from Grammy Schultz and both love them still today. The one you see in all the pictures was also made by Grammy Schultz and is the most beautiful one I have ever seen - I LOVE the colors and Drew really seems to prefer this blanket to all others. I wrap him up in it nice and tight and off to dreamland he goes! Do you see his little fingers in the above picture? All the kids have done that - they weave their fingers in the holes and just hold on to the blanket. I love it! Thanks Grammy!

Snow Day!

2010-02-07T12:35:00.006-05:00

Yesterday was an awesome SNOW DAY! 28.5 inches of snow fell in the city of brotherly love and the kids have enjoyed every moment! Andy is such a great dad. He took the kids out at 12:30 pm and I didn't see them again until about 5:00 pm. They went up to the church playground and played in the snow - and when they got tired of the snow they ran around inside the church. Daniel came home looking like a snow monster - covered in snow and big red rosy cheeks! An hour later he was crashed on the floor and out like a light!

Drew has been a dream baby - he has fallen into a schedule and is now eating about every 2 1/2 hours during the day and sleeping for 3 hour stretches at night. Last night was our first "rough" night. He cried for about 2 hours from 9:30 - 11:30 and nothing Andy or I did would console him. I finally tried feeding him one more time and then wrapped him up nice and tight and then he fell asleep until 3:00 am! If that's as rough as it gets - I'll take it!

Today was his first immersion bath. His umbilical cord stub fell off last Thursday - I was so glad as he would scream through his sponge baths. I was worried he would hate baths all together - but he LOVED the tub! The water was nice and warm and he just sat in the little floaty (that I borrowed from Carisa - Thanks! I love it!) and relaxed. It was great! He is such a cutie! Drew is really starting to move his left arm. He moves it up in front of his chest and is really making progress. Thank you all for your prayers!

I am feeling so much better - it took a lot longer to recover from this pregnancy than the others. As my one friend says - I am an old-head and was feeling my age! I have, however, lost 28 pounds of the 40 I gained this pregnancy! I am anxious to get back into exercise and am trying to eat right. I really would like to lose the pregnancy weight by my birthday in May. And then pick up where I left off and lose the rest of the weight I had started to lose before getting pregnant!

What a difference a week makes!

2010-02-01T20:36:00.005-05:00

Drew - One Week Old

I can't believe what a difference a week makes! This time last week we were wondering what was up with our new little guy and just thankful that he had made it through the birth. Our three other children had no idea what their new brother looked like and hadn't seen mom in over 14 hours and wouldn't see either of us until the next day. Amazing that we have since brought home our BIG boy and he has been loved and cuddled by all on a regular basis!

Since we brought Drew home he has already been to the pediatrician and the orthopaedist. Both doctors gave glowing reports. Both feel that Drew will regain full use of his left arm within the next few months and will make a full recovery. His case of Erb's Palsy is very mild and his fracture is small - should heal in the next few weeks. I loved his orthopaedists - two YOUNG doctors. They were so gentle and careful of Drew and were just so encouraging. I am really glad I switched pediatricians and am now part of the CHOP network. Every doctor I have met so far I have really liked. Drew will go back in three weeks for x-rays and another doctor visit to make sure his clavicle has healed and his arm is improving.

So our baby is already a week old! We sang happy birthday to him at 3:54 pm and just praised God for His wonderful work in Drew's life already! I am amazed at this little person who has so captured my heart. I don't even mind that he thinks I am an all-night buffet! I just love holding him and staring into his dark eyes. He is a sweet boy and really only cries when he is hungry or has a stinky diaper! He was hating having his diaper changes, but today was a turning point as I was able to change his diaper with him screaming like a banshee! Daniel has been a dream big brother and is content to hold Drew for an hour or more! He just loves having him around so much! I truly hope that they will grow up to be best buddies. Matt and Sarah have also had a great time holding Drew - there is often a line of kids waiting for him to be done eating so that they can have their turn at holding him! I think it's funny - we'll see how long it will last!

Thank you for all your prayers on our behalf. God is so good to us. We are so thankful to Him for all He has done this past week.

He's Out!

2010-01-26T21:07:00.007-05:00

We are rejoicing in God's amazing work in our son's life as he was released from NICU today and is now in my new roommate! The greatest thing, however, was that the kids were able to meet their new sibling! They all instantly fell in love! Daniel proved to be the loving big brother we knew he would be - so excited to meet this new little brother! Matt was truly eager to hold Drew and was thrilled to see that he had a brother that looked more like him - dark hair and dark eyes! Sarah was beyond ecstatic with holding a baby and begged to hold him every minute she was here! It was great to see all their love and excitement for their new brother.

Grandparents also came today to meet the new grandson. Though my mom was present during our harrowing experience - she didn't really get to see him as they whisked him away pretty quickly. So all the grands met him and held him today. My mom, of course, was near tears as she experienced the fact that we almost lost the little guy and was extremely thankful to be holding a healthy, albeit BIG, baby boy.

It was a sweet day. I am just so thankful to God for giving us another miracle. Andy and I believe we have asked a lot in the miracle department - many of you remember that Daniel had two complete knots in his umbilical cord and technically shouldn't even be here! We believe each of our kids is a miracle and gift from God - but our last two are particularly special as we could have lost them both. More proof that God is very much in control of our lives and our children! Thank you for all your prayers - please continue to pray for Drew as his left arm continues to heal and that he would gain full use of it!

He's Here!

2010-01-25T18:30:00.003-05:00

When the day started I didn't think he would be arriving today as when we called at 6:00 am to confirm our induction the hospital said they were full - I was so disappointed! But I left it up to God and figured He knew what day he wanted our baby to be born. Thankfully 50 minutes later I got a phone call telling me to arrive at the hospital by 8:30 am! I was so happy! It actually worked out pretty well as we were able to wake the kids and see them to our friends house and reassure them that things were going to be okay. Poor Daniel was a bit upset about leaving us, but seemed to do well once he was dropped off.

We arrived at the hospital and things started moving quickly. I was already 5 cm dilated and so ready to have this baby! They started the pitocin at around 9:30 am and things kicked into gear pretty fast. I am a wimp when it comes to pain and requested the epidural at 11:00 am! The doctor finally arrived at 11:50 am and made my life so much better! What I hadn't counted on was the epidural causing my blood pressure to plummet making me feel absolutely horrible. They soon corrected that and things progressed normally. I was able to sleep, rest, and relax while my body did the work of getting ready to deliver our boy.

Finally at 3:15 pm I was given the go ahead to start pushing. Now with Matt I pushed 3 1/2 hours - you know first kids! With Sarah and Daniel it was a breeze - delivering them in about 3 pushes. This one was a bit more difficult. I pushed for about 30 minutes and finally got his head out - massive cheeks! But then the drama started (we can't have a kid without a dramatic entrance!) His shoulders got stuck. All of a sudden the doctor is calling for help and there are twelve people yelling at me to push harder and pressing on my belly and pulling on him to assist in his birth. They were finally able to pull him out and immediately took him over to give him oxygen. It seemed like forever before he finally cried - but never a sweeter sound was heard. He is currently in the NICU with a fractured left clavicle - very common for these type of births. He is, however, already gripping with his left hand and starting to move the arm more. They believe he will make a full recovery and have full use of his arm. His stats are:Name: Andrew Elijah Schultz (we'll call him Drew)

Weight: 10 lbs. 12 oz.

Length: 21 1/2 inches

Head: 14 inches

Chest: 14 inches

And his shoulders are wider than 14 inches! He is doing well. Andy and I were able to go down tonight and hold him for about an hour. We praise God for bringing our baby safely into the world. The doctor told Andy that this was one of her most serious deliveries in her 10 years of practice - only one other compares to ours. We thank you all for praying for our son and his arrival. Please continue to pray as he grows and develops - that things would progress normally and he would grow strong and healthy.

37 weeks 4 days

2010-01-12T23:34:00.003-05:00

Yes, that is how far along I am in this pregnancy. Only 2 weeks and 3 days, at the most, to go as they won't let me go beyond my due date (01/28/10). Though at my Dr. appointment last Thursday I was already dilated 3-4 cm. YEAH!! I was hoping to go last week, but little boy Schultz is hanging on by his toenails! He is getting quite large and it is getting harder to drive (I have short legs and a very big belly!) and to walk around and do normal things - like clean the bathrooms and laundry! Each day the kids ask if today is the day he will arrive - it's starting to drive me crazy! I know they are anxious and want to meet their brother - but I keep telling them God is in control and will let him arrive on the day he is to arrive. I am hoping his day is soon!

In the mean time we are getting ready for his arrival. The clutter from the bedroom is almost gone, the laundry is almost caught up, and I even painted our headboard for our bed today! It was a dark blue and it is now a sage green to match the new bedding I bought about 10 months ago! I am finally getting brave enough to remove the white sheets from our bed - though I did that for the kids a couple of months ago. I am praising God that we still are in the clear as far as bedbugs go. We pray each day that we will never have to go through that experience again. I am so thankful for all Andy has done to our house. It really is looking quite amazing. We are going to be hanging pictures this weekend - if the baby doesn't come - so I will post pictures of what the house looks like. I am in love with it again!

I will post any updates about baby Schultz as soon as the great event happens! Please pray that he will arrive safely and that all will be well! Pray for the kids, too, as they adjust to a new sibling - we think Daniel is going to be a riot - he is already so in love with this little guy!

Christmas 2009!

2009-12-25T22:00:00.003-05:00

WOW! What a difference a year makes! I vividly remember last Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. It was a nightmare and one I don't believe I will ever forget! Christmas Eve was wrought with finding a bunch of bed bugs and staying up into the wee hours of the morning catching them and then Christmas morning we awoke to find one of the horrid creatures crawling away from me on our bed - very obvious that it had just had its Christmas feast on either me or Daniel - or both! It was horrible! I now sit here in my beautiful new living room with the Christmas tree lit and beautifully decorated and the stockings hung on the stair banister. Such a contrast to last year - where the walls were gutted and there were no decorations for Christmas. I am SO THANKFUL that a year can make such a difference. I am so grateful for all that God has given us and brought us through. As I look back on the past year I have learned so many lessons and have truly grown to appreciate life without bed bugs. They just took so much away from us - namely time with our children and a ton of time from my husband as he worked relentlessly on getting rid of the bugs and renovating the house to try to protect us from further infestation. It has made us appreciate our time with our children and has helped us to look forward to getting back to a somewhat normal life - playing with our children and getting into a routine where Andy isn't ALWAYS doing something on the house! It will be so nice!

Today was a great day! It was fun to hear Matt and Sarah explain to Daniel the "rules" to Christmas day in our house! We had to remember that he was two the last time we had a traditional Schultz Christmas. Our main rule is that I go downstairs first and light the tree and make everything pretty and get the camera ready to snap pictures. Daniel thought this was ridiculous - but Matt and Sarah have been doing it this way for 10 and 12 years and insisted we continue! He complied! We also each open a gift one at a time and look to see what the other has gotten instead of a mad gift opening.

Daniel loving his new "blue" automoblox - he loves these cars!

The kids can then see what the each has gotten and ooh and ahh over them - Sarah does a really good job with this and really encourages Daniel in appreciating what he got! They all had a great morning and got way too much - but they each loved what they got.

Matt's new ripstick - Andy's idea - so not mine! Pray he doesn't break anything!

They will be busy for days investigating their new toys and playing with everything!

Sarah enjoying her new Anne of Green Gables Series! My favorite when I was her age!

We went to my mom's for dinner tonight and had a great meal of ham, ziti, asparagus, and my favorite 24 hour shredded roast beef! I ate way to mu ch and the baby has been protesting his lack of room! It was great to see my Aunt Bonnie and Uncle Ray, grandmom Ruth, Aunt Cheryl and Uncle Doug, and my cousin Mike and his three girls! There were a lot of kids running around! It was a great time together with family.

I pray you all had a wonderful Christmas Day. I have loved this day and have really focused my attention on just how thankful I am to God for his indescribable gift - His Son - and all the trials He has brought me through this past year. He is so good - even in the bad times! Praise God!

Let the Gift-giving Begin!

2009-12-23T22:58:00.004-05:00

Today was the first day of gift-giving! We went to my mom's house and the kids were spoiled once again! My mom is a gift giver and loves to shower gift on everyone. This year was no different and the kids loved each of their gifts. I actually have some photos!

Here is also a preview of the livingroom! We have our tree up and the kids loved decorating it! They looked at each of their ornaments as if they were new since they didn't get to put them out last year. Some they had even forgotten about! It was a sweet time and I love sitting next to the tree in the late evening relishing the fact that the bed bugs are gone and praising God for bringing us through one of our toughest trials.

Oh Goodness!

2009-12-10T20:17:00.002-05:00

I can't believe it's been almost a month since I have last blogged! Life has gotten out of hand! But things will hopefully be settling down! And I will be able to return to blogging regularly! Andy bought me a new computer for Christmas! YEAH!!! So, hopefully, I'll be able to get photos up regularly and my computer will cooperate with life!

Though I say life will hopefully be settling down - I know it's going to be turned upside down in just about 7 weeks! That is when the latest little Schultz boy is due to arrive. I do have the comfort of knowing that it is only 7 weeks as the doctors won't let me go past my due date with having the diabetes. I have begun non-stress tests twice weekly - so driving has become a routine. I have to admit I enjoy the quiet time! I go first thing in the morning and return in time to do school with the kids. He is being very cooperative with the testing and I am usually only hooked up for about 15 minutes! He is an active little dude - I am hoping once he is out he will settle down! At my last ultrasound they determined he weighed about 4 pounds 9 ounces. That put him at the 50th percentile - right on target! I have been feeling great - though I am getting more tired.

Our house is coming along - Andy is almost done with the living room! I will post pictures as soon as it is complete - hopefully by this Saturday. We really want to decorate for Christmas since we missed out on it last year! I think if I wait any longer to put up our tree Daniel will explode! He has been begging for the tree to go up - I really want it to go up too!

Life continues - and I am so thankful for all God is doing in our lives! So many blessings He has given!

Hopefully, some good news!

2009-11-13T18:47:00.002-05:00

Last Saturday the neighbors returned with an exterminator! I am so happy that they are attacking this! But in talking with them they said they were really treating for a bad flea problem and hadn't seen any bedbugs in a few months. I am hoping they were being upfront with us, but I am not confident. Andy talked with one of the brothers that really owns the house, but doesn't live there and warned him how important it is to to stay on top of this if they did have bedbugs. I am hoping that he took the warning to heart.

The next day, Sunday, they were back at the house (they haven't been sleeping there as one of the kids had a bad reaction to either a bite or the pesticide being used). There was a ton of trash on the curb. I got worried again! But they said that the stuff was from the basement. There was also a hot water heater among the trash. They apparently had a broken hot water heater and it leaked and had to toss a lot of stuff from the basement. This sparked an idea in my head. Back in the beginning of October (I think) our basement flooded - big time! It hasn't done that since we had the outside pipe replaced in August of 2008. I was baffled as to where the water was coming from as it was coming in at a pretty rapid clip. The reason the basement flooded is that our sub-pump failed to click on. Once it click on it sucked up the water and for the next couple of weeks it continued to pump water out. Andy was in a quandary - where was it coming from? We were ready to call the water dept when all of a sudden it stopped and everything became dry. I am thinking the people next door had no idea their hot water heater broke and it literally poured water out for a couple of weeks before they discovered it. I do not want to see their water bill - we had a lot of water in our basement! I am hoping that was the issue and we can put our basement back together again. We'll give it another couple of rain storms before we do that!

Baby Schultz is doing well, but, unfortunately, my sugars are going up. It is likely I will be on insulin for the last 10 weeks of this pregnancy. I have been trying to watch what I have been eating, but I get so hungry at times! I am determined to try and limit this weight gain. I have gained 20 lbs. so far - far less than I did with the others - but I still have 10 weeks - that could literally be at least 10 more pounds! I am trying to exercise everyday and now really trying to watch what goes in my mouth - but it is all easier said than done. I will be losing this all as soon as he is born! I am anxious to start my Biggest Loser DVD's and especially Jillian Michael's 30-Day Shred. I also can't wait until we set our Wii up and I can start using the Wii Active. I am determined to lose the baby weight by my 41st birthday in May! And then continue on my weight loss journey throughout the summer. Hopefully, I'll have a very cooperative baby!

Thanks for all the prayers. I am still working on being able to download my photos. Andy got his new computer up and running - now I only have to find the time to sit down and put in all the software and download the photos. Maybe next week!

Worst fear confirmed

2009-11-04T20:52:00.003-05:00

Today I discovered what I have been suspicious of for the past few days to be true. About two weeks ago our neighbors, the Hispanic family that lives on the left side of our house, had put a bunch of furniture and mattresses out for the trash. At that time I questioned Andy as to whether or not he thought they were dealing with bedbugs. He thought not because there were also toys and some other things mixed in. He felt they were just cleaning house - the mattresses were pretty old and worn looking. I wanted to believe him. I wanted to trust that our neighbors would talk to us - as we had to them - about their problem and warn us. The past few days the neighbors house has been dark. I have heard no voices through the walls. I have heard no music or anyone banging on their door. Today another neighbor who is close to them was hanging out on her steps, so I asked the question that has been plaguing my mind - did the neighbors leave their house? She said yes, for the last two weeks. My next question - "Did they leave because they have bedbugs?" She looked at me sadly - as she has known of our situation and all we have gone through - and said "Yes." She was just as upset as I that they kept their situation a secret from us. She doesn't understand - nor do I - since we were so forthcoming with our situation and constantly trying to help them be aware - showing them what bedbugs look like, how to search for them, what things they can do to get rid of them, etc. I do not know how bad their infestation is. I am praying all we have done to our house will prevent them from returning. Just when we were starting to put things back together we get this news. I am unsure of what to do. We haven't seen any evidence that they have come back, but just knowing that they are a wall away is already starting to drive me crazy. I can't deal with them again. Not with expecting a newborn in just 12 weeks. I can't do things, as big as I am getting, like I did last year at this time. Please pray with me that all the time and effort Andy has put into this house will do the trick in protecting us from a new infestation. Please pray that something will be done to the house next door to rid it of its bedbugs. I do not believe the neighbors are going to do anything about the situation. I believe they are hoping that if they stay out of the house long enough, they will just die. I have told them before that is not the case - they can stay there for up to 18 months without a feeding or move onto the next house - which hopefully won't be ours. But the fact that the other neighbors are in jeopardy is frustrating. If we can't get rid of them on this block we will run the risk of them coming back sometime in the future. Please pray that the houses on our block will get rid of these pests so we can all have a peace of mind about our homes.

One year....

2009-11-03T19:52:00.002-05:00

That's how long it has been since we discovered we were dealing with bedbugs. In so many ways this past year has seemed an eternity and yet it has gone by quite quickly. I was just reading some of the posts from last November and how I was dealing with things. I am so glad that time is over. It has been five months since we have seen any evidence of the nasty little creatures. But the experience has certainly changed us. We still look at every fuzzy or piece of lint on the floor as if it were a bedbug. We still check the kids beds and ours. We still haven't moved everything back into the house that was moved out. We are still praying everyday that the bedbugs are truly gone. I don't know if we will ever relax about them - maybe that is a good thing since they are on the rise and can infest anyone from anywhere.

We are still recovering both financially and house wise from the effects of these wicked little creatures. Andy has been working hard to get the house finished, but with working alone it is a slow and long process. He finished the hardwood floors this past week and they look gorgeous! I am finding however, that it makes the kids seem louder as things echo terribly. I am hoping an area rug and furniture placement will help soften the sound!

One year later things look a bit different - thank God! Our house is much emptier - for which I am very thankful. We are expecting another little miracle - another thing for which I am extremely thankful! I view this little person as a promise from God that we are truly done with the bedbugs as I specifically prayed for this little person before he was conceived and asked God NOT to give him to us until we were done with the bedbugs. I find it amazing that we got pregnant in May and haven't had any evidence of them since that month. Our God is a loving and caring God and answers prayers in a mighty way. So join with me today - even though it is not Thanksgiving Day yet - to give thanks to our great God for His mighty work in our lives. Strengthening us this past year, teaching us, blessing us, and carrying us throughout the toughest times. I am so thankful I serve such an amazing God.

Life keeps going!

2009-10-21T14:55:00.003-04:00

Life is plodding along. We returned from Williamsburg, Va through rain the entire way home. It reminded Andy and I of our drive home from our honeymoon (we stayed in Va. Beach and Williamsburg). It poured the entire way home then, too! I still felt lousy on Sunday so I went and taught my Sunday School class and then came home and slept! It was great! The kids and Andy didn't get home until after 4:00 pm as there was a lunch after church and then soccer for the kids! I so enjoyed my time of rest - I think it made an improvement on my health! I felt so much better on Monday and we were able to continue on with school. I am really trying not to miss any days and build up as many school days before the baby arrives so we have a good cushion. Pennsylvania requires 180 days of school - today is day 53. I am hoping to have 85 days in before Christmas break. Then I will only have 95 days of school to fit in by the end of June - though I prefer to be done the end of May - before Memorial Day. I find it terribly difficult to get anything out of their little heads after Memorial Day. We'll see how the new baby fit in with things - I am praying for a VERY happy and content baby.

Matt seems to have FINALLY caught on to the fact that school needs to be done everyday. For the past three days he has been finishing his work on time and getting through the day with a mostly good attitude. I can't tell you how thankful I am for this! Hopefully it will continue. Life changes next week as the kids and I are being evicted from the house! Andy has to polyurethane the floors and being pregnant, I can't inhale the fumes. So we leave Sunday afternoon and won't return until November 2nd. I am really praying that this is the last time I have to leave the house due to renovations. I am tired of leaving. Tired of packing up the kids and doing things solo. I am extremely thankful that Andy's parents are willing to tolerate us for an entire week - I know it isn't easy with three loud and busy kids! But they are so good to us and hopefully it won't rain and the kids will enjoy the fresh country air for a week - as well as stomping in the leaves and enjoying some extra freedom. Daniel will be in heaven - he loves being at Grammy and PopPop's house - he loves the country.

I am still working on pictures. I hope to have time tonight after the kids go to bed. I am going to attempt to use Andy's new computer and see how things go. We'll see! Thanks for continuing to pray for us. Please specifically pray for our nerves as we are approaching the one year mark since we found out about our bed bugs. It is getting nerve wracking thinking you see one and praying everyday we never see another one again! It has been five months since we have seen one or had any bites, but just this past Monday, trash day, our neighbors had a ton of furniture and beds out for the trash men to take - we haven't been brave enough to ask if they found any - I am hoping it was only a fall cleaning!

Williamsbug, VA

2009-10-16T18:32:00.002-04:00

That's where we are at right now. We purchased a special three day/ two night deal at Sam's Club for an incredibly cheap price. Andy and I love it here and the kids enjoy it as well, so we thought we would take a little vacation and count it as school since this years history is American History. The kids have been learning much about the revolution and even heard the Declaration of Independence read allowed today. We have been talking to people non-stop to discover the differences and similarities between our current life and life in the 18th century. I have thoroughly enjoyed the time we have been here so far, except for the fact that I feel miserable with a head and chest cold. It has also been miserable weather - rainy (it POURED yesterday!) and cold. But the kids have been troopers and have been actively seeking people out to talk to and ask their questions. I have a ton of pictures, but I'll have to wait until I get home to upload them onto a computer that will read the CD-ROM that came with my camera. But I will post some.

We are here one more night/ day. I am REALLY hoping that the weather will get better and it won't rain tomorrow. It isn't looking hopeful. Please pray for the ride home and that it would be uneventful!

Okay....Okay....

2009-10-03T20:15:00.002-04:00

I have been absolutely horrible about blogging as of late. Life has been busy. Andy has been crazy busy sanding the wood floors we found underneath the carpets we pulled up last week. I have been going crazy trying to keep the dust level down. I am extremely thankful he is cleaning up the floors and getting them beautiful, but at the same time I am SO READY for this work to be DONE! I just want my house to be put in order and for the NOISE to stop! It seems that noise REALLY bugs me with this pregnancy. I get easily irritated at the beeping of the construction vehicles at the end of the street - the sander is driving me crazy - and my children's non-stop talking is really starting to grate my nerves! I am so thankful when 11 pm comes and it is QUIET! I keep reminding myself this will not last forever and we will get done - I just can't wait until it is DONE!

I will be able to take pictures come next week when I get my new camera! I called Best Buy today to check on the status of the repair on my camera I gave them almost two weeks ago and they said I was approved to get a NEW CAMERA! I guess it was the actual camera itself that was the problem and not me after all! They didn't have a report as to what was wrong with it, but when I go to pick out a new one on Monday maybe they can tell me so if it was my fault I don't do whatever it was I may have done, again. I think I will use Andy's new computer to download pictures and upload them on the blog - just in case it was my computer that may have infected the camera. My computer has been doing weird things and I really need to clean it up - I just need to figure out how to do that! I so want to be a techie - and I am so not one!

Baby Schultz is doing well. He had a heart study this past Thursday and everything is looking great! He weighs approximately 1 pound 6 ounces already! When I think I still have 17 weeks to go I keep praying he won't get overly huge. Daniel was 9 pounds even, Sarah was 8 pounds 9 ounces and Matthew was 8 pound 5 ounces. I don't have small babies! I am hoping this one is no bigger than 9 pounds. I have been terrible about exercising this week and really need to get back into it on Monday. I have been staying up far too late cleaning things - trying to keep up with the dust. I will get up early on Monday and get back to the gym! My goal is to do the elliptical for 60 minutes at least 5 days a week. Something I have been sadly lacking!

Sorry I haven't been blogging as much as I used to. I am hoping to get better at it again. Thanks to all who have been praying for us despite my lack of communication!

BooHoo!

2009-09-18T09:59:00.002-04:00

Yes, that is me crying that today is our last full day of vacation. It's back to Philly tomorrow. I have so enjoyed the peace and quiet, the beautiful finished house and the no-stress life! Now we go back to our totally chaotic house, stress-filled life and noisy neighborhood. I REALLY have no desire to go back. So I plan to enjoy our day today by going to the beach, sitting in the sun and watching the kids enjoy the sea and finishing my book.

Yesterday was a very cool day so we went to the mall and bought the kids new shoes and some winter clothing. Daniel is in LOVE with his new Sketchers! He has done nothing but praise his new sneakers! They light up a VERY BRIGHT GREEN color! You could spot him a mile away in the pitch black! He is going to LOVE wearing these sneakers up at PopPop and Grammy's in the dark! He is very pleased! Matt and Sarah also got new sneakers - but they don't light up! What was shocking was that my daughter - who is ten - in only one size smaller than me!!!! The child has huge feet for being so young! Matt is already at a 11! Andy is a size 13 - I guess Matt will be there in about two years at the ripe old age of 14! After that I told him he would have to start wearing shoe boxes lined with duct tape!

I am off to the beach!