Now that's a record

Wow!! Twenty seven days between posts, I told you this wasn't my first priority. So alot has happened in a month. Thanksgiving, Black Friday, decorating for the holidays, and just trying to live life in between. I will have three week off from BSF coming up soon and I hope to share what God has been doing during that time. In the mean time just wanted to say hello and let you know that I am alive.

Happy Halloween

Good times were had by all this Halloween. Noah had waited for weeks to be able to be the dark and dangerous Vader, complete with the red colored light saber. Elli on the other hand had been panting and barking for weeks to become the animal she loves so much. Noah got a load of candy while Elli did a cul-de-sac and called it good. She had the best time handing out candy and getting excited with every new costumed kid at the door greeting them with a trick or treat.

Annoying Noises

Is anyone else annoyed with commercials on the radio that have a beeping horn in them? I don't know how many times I have panicked and looked frantically around only to discover it was from the RADIO. Or how about the sound of a fire engine, the agencies that put these commercials together think that maybe, somebody might mistake it for the real thing and pull over and cause an accident. With all the talk about cell phone use and other distractions in the car wouldn't you think think somebody would have thought to not put such distractions on the air? What dangerous or annoying noises have you heard on the radio?

Tagged

I was tagged some time ago. So here goes. J- Just lucky to have a great family O- Overwhelmed with being busy at times, but grateful for God's peace in it. Y- Yearning for my kids to grow up slower Ok so it was a stretch for most of my answers but I had hard letters to work with.

Low priority

I am sorry to say that this blog has become a low priority in my life right now. I know I didn't need to tell you that. Many other things have taken it's place, homework with Noah, my Apple computer class, doing hair, and probably the most challenging and yet fufilling is Bible Study Fellowship. I have been going to BSF for 4 years and love the indepth study of the Bible. This is my first year as a discussion leader with a group of 15 women. Not only do I go on Wenesday mornings but Monday mornings too. God has been stretching me already in teaching me to be a good listener, something I thought I was good at, but God has shown me different. The other aspect I thought I would stuggle with and not enjoy has probably become one of my biggest privileges. I call each of my women once a week to connect with them. Let me tell you that can take up a good chunk of time but I am so blessed by talking with each one of these women and look forward to the contact. I also pray for them daily and get to see what God is doing in their lives and how their study of his Word really makes a difference. So if you see the same post from me for awhile, know that I am trying to be used by God. There are alot of amazing things he has already been doing in my life and I do hope to share some of them soon. Please keep me in your prayers that God will protect me and give me the endurance in this new venture. For those of you who would be excited by this Rob shot a doe on opening day of deer season. Rob was very excited and still hopes for a buck.

I know, I know

Okay all you nameless commentors who raze me about never posting, this time you may be right. I have been busy with summer melting into fall. I have to say that I was ready for the structure that fall and school brings. Noah is really starting to adjust to getting up early and is loving being a first grader. I am enjoying him being in school everyday and spending some one on one time with Elli. Elli was not at all that excited to be with just mom that first week. Throughout the day she would constantly ask "Where Noah go?" But this second week into our new schedule she is also being to adjust. Every bus we see no matter the time of day Elli squeals out with delight "NOAH'S BUS". Some day we can see up to five buses a day. She is convinced that he is on every one. I just wanted to give you all a little update and to tell you that, yes, it may go weeks at a time before I blog, but I will try to be a little better.

Happy Belated Birthday

There were alot of times growing up with my brother Todd when we didn't like each other very well. A few memories come to mind. * Todd slamming the car door on my head as I was climbing out, he said it was accidental but I always wondered. * Riding home from church in his car, ducking my head so nobody would mistake me for his girlfriend. * Having crushes on all his friends, Todd hating that. ( Rob Tinholt took me out for ice cream once, did you know that?) * Almost drowning me at Ludington, I'm sure you don't remember that. Thank goodness things got better as time went on. When he came home from college during summer breaks I remember ordering pizza late one night having a heart to heart talk about life. I am amazed at the connection he has with little kids. I have never met one that has not loved him, my kids included, he is their favorite uncle. Noah plans on moving in with him when he turns 18. He is very generous with his boat always offering to take Noah on the kneeboard or for a tube ride. He has a big heart that I have gotten glimpses of during different times of our lives. Times that he might not remember but that have made an impression on me. I am grateful to have a brother like you and the influence you have had on my life. I love you. So happy late birthday Todd, and don't worry I only get mushy once a year on your birthday.

Say "NO" to fear

Noah had a lesson at church that taught him to say NO to fear and yes to God. That lesson came back to haunt me Tuesday night. We headed out to the big Hudsonville Fair with the neighbors for a night of thrills and excitement. If you remember from a prior post Noah was a little hesitant about some of the rides. We started out a the swings and he wanted nothing to do with them. Madison went on all by herself without an ounce of fear. Noah started noticing how much fun she was having and decided he didn't want to miss out. I was so proud of him he rode every ride with excitement and went on rides I wouldn't have dreamt he would have done before. As the night ended they had to decide what their last ride would be. They chose the Ferris wheel, now if you know me you know that I am not a big fan of high ride or anything that might even make you lose your stomach. Ok, so I may be known to freak out on a roller coaster or two. But I could I not go on it with him? After he had been so brave all night? It was my turn to bite the bullet. On we went and had a great time. I was so glad I was forced into doing something out of my comfort zone. I would have missed out on a great moment with my son as we looked out over the fair and saw everything below.

Kids For Sale

Ever have one of those days? Why is it they both decided to ignore the rules and do as they please? Today I am lucky enough to clean up yet again a big lipstick mess, this time in the van and of course the girl. She has been punished before and knows that is naughty. My other fun project is cleaning pee out of the trash can. How did that happen you ask? The kids' toliet is leaking so Rob informed Noah that he must use the other bathroom for the time being. In a effort to remind Noah to not use wrong toliet Rob put the trash can on top of the toliet. You can figure out what happened, and not just once either. Did he think we wouldn't notice? That's my guess. So anyway does anyone want to buy some kids? I can't believe it, just seconds after typing this Noah ran inside and use the afore mentioned toliet even as I am yelling "STOPPPPPP!!" Meanwhile the other one is yelling "I ready get out" after being in her crib for 15 minutes. Seriously when does it end.

Summer Fun

Here are a few pics from the last couple of weeks Noah's 19" bass Bathing beauty Blueberry picking with the family was suprisingly a great activity. Elli making herself beautiful half hour before going up to the farm. Yes, I am driving a tractor.

Sending a message?

The closed garage door. Every neighborhood has them, the neighbor that closes the door IMMEDIATELY after entering. Maybe it's you, the person that although is home all day long still keeps their garage door shut. It drives me crazy, are they purposely sending a message to stay away, we don't want to be bothered? In the winter I can understand it, you don't want snow drifts in the garage, even during the other seasons on a windy day to keep the dirt out. But on a beautiful summer day, let the sun shine in. It won't hurt. The only thing that drives me more nuts are the neighbors that have a driveway full of cars and not one of them is ever parked in the garage. Weigh in, what do you think?

Fourth of July

What a exciting holiday it was. We started out on Tuesday night with fireworks from the dollar store that put the neighborhood to shame. We had the neighbors over and the sparklers,snakes, and snap-its. Wednesday we went up to Sand Lake and hung out with Grandpa and Grandma Wondergem. Grandma took us to the fair up there and Elli rode on her first roller coaster and loved every minute. Noah claimed to be brave but look closely at him on the helicopter ride and his face may say otherwise. We had a great couple of days.

Tea Party

Last Thursday our little girl turned 2. It's so hard to believe. If I had my way I would keep her at this age forever, she is so cute and is learning so many things. She has not been a quiet girly girl. She is a rough and tough climber who loves deer and hunting videos. So it came as a surprise when she opened and fell in love with her first tea set. Noah wanted to pick out a present for Elli so we headed to Walmart. Being cheap I steered Noah to the $4.88 Tea Set. Who could have known when my little girl openend it up it would be her favorite present. She absolutely loves serving coffee and eating fake cake. Yeah, there is a girly girl in that deer loving toddler. She also enjoyed "testing" out her cake while we were singing to her. Well this will be a long post as we are headed for a week of vacation near the Traverse City area. Have a good week!!

I'm Back

I am once again having problems with my internet connection and it was down for the week. But I don have to say I am amazed at the things I got done. I steam cleaned my carpets. I actually cleaned my whole house, dusting included. I read a book, helped Rob finish our landscaping, and made a butterfly cake for Elli's 2nd birthday. (Pictures to come). I have not been able to keep up on my blog reading but look at the variety of things I have accomplished. I will be posting again soon but just wanted to shout out that I have not become a hermit. Fig, I will be needing some clues. What is your idea of middle age? Where was this woman from?

Quality

I have recently come to realize that it doesn't always pay to go cheap. I have been through 3 vacuum cleaners and have hated them all because they never work good. This time I went down to the vacuum center and bought a good one that should last 10-12 years. Same goes with our lawn mower, although technically it did last a good 8 years and it was used when we bought it. Yet again I have done it and bought a cheap dresser for Noah's room. I had to put it together but it is made out of real wood. The drawers never stay on there tracks and every time Noah needs anything I have to get it so he doesn't wreck it. Kinda defeats the purpose. I can't bear to tell Rob he might have been right. All that to save a whopping $60. When will I learn?

Lessons learned

I learned some much and it isn't even officially summer yet. 1. If you build it they will come, the neighborhood kids that is. After finishing of the sand box/swingset we had all the kids over having to try out the new equipment out. 2. I must start wearing tank tops to get rid of the farmers tan I am starting to develop. 3. I am not responsible to feed the neighborhood. Noah, bless his heart, feels the need to share a snack with everyone. One or two kids no problem, but when it's four or five I got to draw the line. I will share the Flavor-Ice. Great idea Cheryl. 4. If there is dirt, candy, or a mess to be made Elli will find it. 5. If you just think you charged your camera battery but didn't really, you will miss some great Memorial day shots and think that your new camera is broken. 6. The men in our neighborhood are all pretty wimpy. Wearing gloves while you do yardwork and weed wack, and riding lawnmowers. Come on, it's not like we live in the country with huge yards. It only takes me 45 minutes with the push lawnmower. Man up!! 7. Is there really a need to outdo eachother with the t-ball snacks? As my friend says, "I'm known as the Little Debbie lady". Right on, whats on sale at Walmart? 8. Finally, do not ride on Elli's bike or car or you will have to deal with her wrath. It looks like a summer of learning to share for this little lady.

Singing in the Rain

Sometimes you just got to get out and play in the rain. We finally got a new battery for the jeep and Elli loves to ride with her crazy brother. Please, please, mom can we take it out in the rain. The giggles and smiles say it all.

Fashion

I don't know if it's because I am over 30 or because it wasn't that long ago that I was wearing maternity clothes, but there is a new fashion trend that I just can't get myself to buy. I like the new longer shorts and the many lengths of the capris, I like the flowy skirts and dresses. But I just can't get myself to buy a "baby doll" style shirt. You know the ones that have an empire waist and are looser on the bottom, like a maternity shirt. Maybe I am afraid somebody might mistake me for being pregnant, or maybe it's my age but I just can't do it. My niece who just had a baby thinks these shirts are cute and don't look like maternity clothes. Again maybe it's my age, what do you other mothers out there think?

What a week!

This week turned into alot more than I expected. Rob left last Tuesday for a study week in Houston, TX. Wednesday Noah came home from school with the flu AGAIN. Thanks to Grandma W. who picked him up when they couldn't get a hold of me. So Thursday was spent home not going anywhere. Friday things were looking up and we decided to go get the swingset we'd eagerly been anticipating. Grandma and Grandpa B. came over for what they thought would be an afternoon project of putting the new swingset together. They left at 8:00pm and had plans to come over on Saturday. Meanwhile late Friday night Elli came down with the flu. The thing is my kids both had the flu about a week and a half ago. I thought we were done with this for awhile. Saturday was busy with a T-ball game and pictures followed by a soccer game in the afternoon. Thanks go out again to Noah's coach for picking him up and bringing him to his game and to Grandma and Grandpa for bringing him to his afternoon soccer game and finishing up the swingset. I really appreciate the help that everyone was willing to give. I don't know if I could have made it through the week without it. The stories above are just the abbreviated versions. Thankyou Mom and Dad for all the time spent on the swingset. Noah and Elli really enjoyed it Sunday afternoon. Don't be surprised if you see me at the mall this week with a big latte and no kids as I leave them home with Rob, he owes me big.

Party!!!

1. Fig innappropriately dancing with Bill. 2. Cheryl shaking her groove thing. 3. As cute as we were in the 80's. 4. Extreme close-up of some hotties.

Internet Down

Okay, I know it's been awhile since my last post. I have had some internet issues. I finally got it running again. Stay tuned for some pics of the party.

Life Lessons by Noah

I love that I can learn things from Noah. That God can use a six year old to teach me. It seems lately that we have some great conversations while driving in the car. I thought I would share few. Noah: You know mom, I learned at church that there is one person you can hate. Me: Oh really?? Noah: Yeah, it's that mean old guy Satan. God wants us to love everybody but not him. He wants us to do things that are not nice and God doesn't like that. Me: Your right buddy. Noah: If you have Jesus in your heart, he won't ever leave and remember I asked Jesus into my heart. Me: I remember and that's awesome Noah: Don't worry because someday God is going to kill that bad guy. Me: How did you get so smart? Noah: I just know stuff. I remember the night that he told me he asked Jesus into his heart. Is there anything better a parent can hear? Like the conversation above in his own words that tell me he gets it. Praise God and thank you for a six year olds heart who can teach me to keep it simple.

It's a different world

Yes times have changed. The world is not as safe as it use to be. We have to be more careful and watch our kids more. But this weekend I was amazed at the lack of help that was offered to me. I was driving into Jenison to pick up an amazing $5 pizza for dinner. All of a sudden I heard a louder noise that didn't sound quite right, then the van started to "shudder". Quickly I pulled over, yep a flat tire. Rob and Noah had gone up north so I couldn't call him. I called my mom and dad but they were up at Sandy Pines with friends. Rob's parents weren't back from picking up relatives from the airport. Panic started setting in. Maybe the guy burning leaves in his back yard who was only 30 ft. from me and could clearly see me would offer to help. No such luck. Maybe one of the many dads across at the park would stop, or the two couples who walked 5ft. from my van, anyone driving by? NOT ONE person stopped and offered to help. For goodness sake I was in the suburbs of Jenison, a fairly safe neighborhood. I know for a fact that had it been my husband burning leaves he would have asked if we needed help. I was a little sad and disappointed that we have become so self involved that we don't even have time to stop and help. There is a good samaritian to my story in the form of my brother Todd. When I called he was watching basketball with the guys and quite comfortable on the couch. Even though it wasn't conveinent he came and saved Elli and I. Thank you Todd for not leaving us stranded and helping us out. I owe you one.

Dad

I am a little late in getting out this "birthday blog dedication". My dad's birthday was the day after we returned from our cruise. Maybe it was the sway of the boat that I felt for three days afterward that made me forget. Anyway, I still wanted to say a few words about my dad. - I remember him hiding my winter coat one time because I didn't hang it up. He wouldn't tell me where it was even though I had a date coming to pick me up at any moment. If I would ever ask if he knew where my shoes or coat were, I was sure to get this response, " The last time I wore it I put it away." - I remember him locking the keys in the (running) van at the Tulip time parade, and having to break the window because we had to get home for our softball game. ( I played, he coached) - He thinks that everyone of his grandchildren are smarter or better skilled than other kids their age, no matter the age. - I think the thing that really defines for me my dad is my memory of being in Jr. high. I was a cheerleader and had games after school, my mom worked so she came after she got out of work. I remember seeing my dad sitting in the stands among all these moms watching me cheer, and responding when we asked for crowd participation. He was never embarrassed and I can't remember him missing a game. I can't imagine that watching jr high girls cheerleading was all that exciting but my dad came and watched for me. I don't know if you realize what an impression of love and importance that was to me dad but I thank you. You have always made me feel special and loved. I love you.

Fun in the Sun

Rob and I had a great time on our 10 year anniversary trip, even though we've been married for 12 years. It was worth the wait!

We're off!

Got my People magazine, a few new books, a new bathing suit, sunscreen, and a strong desire for warm weather. We are off to our cruise. See you all in a week.

The Light at the end of the tunnel

It's been one of those weeks. The kind that last forever and seem to never end. Noah has been sick most of the week with a fever and a cold. Yesterday was the first day without the fever. We all have a bit of cabin fever. Maybe that explains the tub incident. Wednesday night I put both kids in the bath, Noah was getting a little stinky from being sick. The phone rang and I got distracted, I walked into the bathroom and "squish" my sock was sopping wet along with the walls. After MANY towels later the bathroom was somewhat dry. Fast forward to Thursday, I am in the bathroom drying my hair. A very proud Elli comes sauntering into the room. To my horror she was covered with lipstick. I am not talking about a little bit either. The white shirt she had on was now pink, as was her face and she even had clumps of it in her hair. Clean up number two, back into the tub. I think the shirt is a lost cause and I am sure the color on her belly will eventually fade. Of course I forgot to take a picture. Oh, did I forget to mention that I spilled coffee on my computer?

Cruisin

Yes, only a year and a half late the Wondergems are going on the long awaited 10 year anniversary vacation. It has been an on again, off again affair. First obstacle, do we have the money? Got the taxes done and there is even a little extra to maybe start on the basement. Second obstacle, where do we go and will it work with our dates? After MANY hours on the computer (I know why they have travel agents) we find a cruise that will work with our dates and frequent flyer miles. Third obstacle, will somebody watch our kids? In come the grandparents, between the two sets we've got it covered. Now it is time to warm up the tanning beds (Nicole if only you lived closer), so as to not scare the other passengers with our pasty white skin, shop for a new bathing suit (ugh!) and see if we can take off a few pounds in two week. Sunny weather, here we come. Stay tuned for the preparations.

Double JJ Ranch

Noah, Elli, and I joined Rob at the Double JJ Ranch for a Church Planters retreat. We left on Sunday afternoon and returned this morning. It was our first time at the ranch. We got to the ranch an hour and half later than planned, thus cutting into the time we were to spend in the water park. When we finally did arrive we drove around another 20 minutes trying to find out where we were to stay. (the place is huge). We decided that just Noah and I would go to the park due the time constraint and to save a little money. I drove up and passed the water park. As I was doing an illegal u-turn I got stuck in a ditch and mainteance had to pull me out. When we finally got inside, the workers didn't know about the special prices our group was to get. That took another 10 minutes and finally we were on our way. Up to the big slide we walked with our tube, ready to go down when Noah darted off and said that maybe next year he would try the slides, he was too scared. I don't think I have ever paid $40 to ride on a lazy river for 45 minutes in my life, definitely not worth the price except for this big silly grin on a little 6 year olds face. Over all we really did have a good time despite our expensive tube ride, freezing cold cabin, and Rob losing his cell phone. We feel blessed that we have opportunities to do special things like that. Maybe Noah won't hate being a PK after all.

Confessions of stay at home mom

I was tagged by my friend Nicole in this little game of confession tag. So here goes. - I don't iron, at all, I won't even buy clothes if they might need to be ironed. - I don't vaccum my stairs, I even bought a new dust buster purposely for it and still don't - My kids scrapbooks are up to date but don't look in my hall closet or my laundry room. - I always do my hair even on my stay at home all day days, no make up though. - I can occasionly be found "dozing" while telling people I am cuddling with my kids at 4:00 during Curious George. - I will hide "pretending" to use the bathroom to get away from my kids. - I spend way to much time on the internet, especially since creating this blog. Ok, not to freaky. I would like to hear confessions from the appraisal office or maybe from the pharmacy, Kraig-e-boy I haven't heard from you lately have you actually been working. I heard a rumor that fig was working hard in January, but I don't believe it's true. I look forward to your responses (I think).

Blizzard of 2007

So what did you do this weekend while trapped in your home? I actually went to a baby shower on Saturday morning ( they weren't calling it a blizzard when I left). I felt quite brave and adventurous when I left. I had to go out near the airport it was a litlle dicey but hey, I grew up in Michigan, nothing I couldn't handle. On the way home it was quite another story. As I am driving 15 miles per hour on the M-6 only being able to see about 3 feet in front of me, I was thinking maybe this wasn't the best idea. It was nasty out but I made it home without any mishaps. I did not venture out again until today. Sunday was quite relaxing. I got a little nap in and I mean little cause Noah thought I didn't really need one. Noah and I did a little scrapbooking or arts and crafts for those of you who are worried about Noah's interests. I did a little baking and of course watched the superbowl. ( Well, mainly I watched the commercials). Every now and then it's fun to get trapped and stay in.

Big Happennings

It was pure excitement over in the Wondergem home last week. Noah's first tooth fell out. He had been mentioning for months how he had a loose tooth, but it seemed every time he told us it was a different tooth. Trying to be a patient mom I would always "feel" the tooth. Well, this time Noah showed me his tooth, and it was loose. The last week we tried to pull it out different times, those teeth are small and hard to get a hold of. Every time Noah would ask,"Is it going to hurt?" Rob would explain that it doesn't hurt too bad but there might be a little blood. Last Wednesday night just before Noah was heading out for church he said, "Mom my tooth fell out." I looked in his mouth and it was dangling. I pulled it out and we cheered and clapped. Noah thought it was pretty cool that there was blood and that it didn't even hurt. I realize how my little boy is growing up and how fast it has gone. I remember being excited when he was getting his first tooth in and now he's already starting to loose them. I am thankful that he is growing up and yet at the same time I wish I could slow it down.

I'm lovin it

I have to admit that I love McDonald's almost as much as Noah. They have the best french fries around, and sometimes you just gotta have a cheeseburger. I still love McD's even after watching Super Size Me. Who knows what it does to your body. I have to say in my defense that I do get their salads alot and they are quite good. I also think that McD's is much better than Burger King, including their salads (yuck!). Burger King also changed their fries a few years back and in my opinion it was for the worse. So tell me any other McDonald's lovers out there?

Ahhhh. . . Mondays

Strange as that may sound to alot of you. Mondays are the Wondergems favorite day of the week. Now don't get me wrong I love the weekends but Sundays tend to be a little hetic around here and as hard as it is to believe Rob can be a little crabby. Then sweet Monday appears and Noah is in school, Rob is at ease, and we had off to brunch with Elli. Our favorite spot is a place downtown called Marie Catribs, it is awesome. We then do errands, get groceries, or just go to a bookstore and browse. I love the time I get to spend with Rob. Our family time at night is very relaxing and Noah gets alot of one on one time with his dad. I have really enjoyed our Mondays together and will fight hard to keep this tradition around.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas. . . now

Wouldn't you know it, now it snows. This was not the Christmas I had expected this year. We had to celebrate with Rob's family a couple weeks early and at night. It was a green Christmas and I defintely like snow with my holiday. I was feeling a little sorry for myself . Yet God showed me so much grace and took me beyond the parties and presents. He reminded me what his birth ultimatley meant for me and I heard the words to those Christmas carols and the story behind them. He gave me moments with my family to treasure, Christmas shopping with Noah, wrapping presents together, and slowing down, not getting all my Christmas cookies made but enjoying my kids instead. It was a joy to see Noah being excited about not just getting presents but giving them, including my new fuzzy blue argyle slippers. Elli was fun to watch as she opened her Dora gifts and got excited every time. One of my favorite memories I will cherish is Christmas night letting Noah crawl into to bed with us and all watching The Polor Express. I can't even explain the various ways that God showed up this year and so different than what I am use too. I am so undeserving and thankful for it.

The Bloggers

If you have read any of our blogs you might recognize a face or two. The one person we all know that links us is Stacey. She is my cousin, Chelle sister, friend of Jamie (use to work with her husband), and a cousin to Nicole (through their husbands). Any way through all our connections we have started to go onto each others blogs and get to know each other. Last month we decided it would be fun to all meet in person. After many attempts and sick kids we finally met last night. It was like getting together with old friends. We sat and talked for three hours filling in the blanks with details we didn't know about each other. As Rob, would say we got to know each others stories. We all had interesting stories and a love for Christ. We had a blast and hope to meet each month. I never thought I would gain some new friends out of my blogging but look forward to deepening these new ones. Happy blogging girls!!