The Preacher's Wife

2009-01-28T19:04:00.001-05:00

This is for you Fig, complete with a deer and everything. For more pics of Parker check out Facebook, that's where it's at.

The Drive Thru

2008-10-29T07:01:00.002-04:00

Over the last few years I have grown to the love the drive-thru. I am not just talking Mc D's either. Got banking to do?, need a prescription filled? Drive thru. I love the fact that I don't have to get out of my car or unbuckle Elli and wait for her to get herself out. I have been known not to go somewhere if they don't have a drive-thru. It is a good thing that there are not alot of Starbucks close by, it is defintely my favorite drive-thru. I even took advantage of the Meijer and there curb side assistant yesterday, kinda a drive-up service, but hey I've got 6 weeks to go,have a big belly and I am tired. I think I deserve to be a little lazy right now.

What's been going on?

2008-09-01T08:04:00.002-04:00

Summer is coming to a close. It has been another busy and fast summer. I can't imagine the number of Flavor-Ice my kids have gone through or the amount of ice cream(mostly on vacation). Poor Noah has had to play a lot of girl games this summer being the only boy in the short radius of the neighborhood homes. Football has started and given him a chance to run around get some energy out and not have to play "pretend". He is loving it and is excited about his first game this coming Saturday. Rob has asked that I don't sit by him and sit by one of the Grandpas and ask all the things I don't know about football. How do you like that, I am just trying to be an active part of my son's life. Elli has had a great summer playing outside, giving up naps and most importantly being in the water any chance she can get. Playing with the "big" kids has given her a bit of an attitude and there are times when she doesn't understand why she can't go every where they do or why she can't spend the night at Grandma W. trailer. I am sure this next week will be an adjustment for both of us when she realizes that I am it, all she has to play with during the day and that I won't have Noah to entertain her when I am busy. Thank goodness that BSF starts up this week and she can find some new friends. All in all I am ready for fall and the continuing countdown of baby's arrival.

Girl or Boy?

2008-07-27T06:53:00.002-04:00

Place your bets, what's it going to be? Tomorrow I go in for my ultrasound and find out whether we are having a girl or a boy. It's funny, this time around I thought I would have a little insight about the sex since my first two pregnancies were so different. This pregnancy is different again and I have no such feeling on the sex of the baby. So what do you think, girl or boy?

Summer Fun

2008-07-10T20:24:00.001-04:00

Thirteen years and counting

2008-06-03T07:30:00.002-04:00

It's hard to believe it's been 13 years since Rob and I said "I do." It's amazing all the different things we've been through. Four years in seminary living in Colorado not knowing a soul when we first moved out there. Years later planting a church not knowing alot about it. Struggling to get pregnant with 2 kids and now a surprise one on the way. Little did we know what was in store for us all those years back, it seems that God had a plan and timeline for our lives that may not have always gone with what I wanted but looking back I now see his way is always better. Happy anniversary Rob!!! Here is to many more years!!!!!!!

WHAT????

2008-05-08T21:47:00.004-04:00

Yep, it's true two old people are having a baby. After the initial shock of the discovery we have started to get very excited. A lesson learned, even if it takes years for you to conceive your first two children it can take only ONE time without using caution. REALLY! God has a great sense of humor. My due date is December 13. Any one looking to unload some maternity clothes let me know, Rob made me sell mine a few years back and I have nothing.

Just for Fig and E-boy

2008-04-24T18:58:00.003-04:00

I couldn't let Fig win. Listen, laptop is gone and I no longer have easy access to a computer. Rob is enthralled with Facebook right now and won't let me have his computer. I am honored that you are still checking my blog Fig, it almost kinda makes me like you. I was going to tell you how busy we've been and how Noah has been sick all week and in the ER twice and how I don't have a computer anymore but then I had to go and read Chelle's blog and the women who just had a baby with 3 other kids at home had to go and put a slide show together and make my excuses look lame. So, I will blog when I blog and I will be thankful for my readers even if they are Fig and Craig-e-boy, maybe I'll even send you some cookies again.

In case anybody is reading this

2008-03-19T18:17:00.002-04:00

I have always wondered what the new Zeeland hospital looked like inside. Well last night I was lucky (or unlucky) enough to visit it. My morning started out kinda silly. I woke up got out of bed and then as I fell to the floor realized my foot had not yet woken up. It hurt but I had things to do. I headed off to the store and ran other errands with no problems. Around 3:00 Elli and I sat down to do a little reading and cuddling. Slowly as the afternoon went on my foot began to ache more and more to the point that when Rob got home I was barely walking and in some serious pain. Off to Zeeland we went. After awhile later I came home with a X-ray, a bad sprain, and a funny little shoe.

Taking a Break

2008-03-18T08:23:00.001-04:00

Ok, Ok, I don't want to hear it. I know I haven't been posting anyway but it may be an even longer break. My computer is down and I don't know if or when it will be working again. I will be checking periododically on Rob's but he is infatuated with Facebook and will hardly let me use his computer at night. Hopefully I will be back up and running.

The Decorater

2008-03-04T11:57:00.000-05:00

Capturing Elli

2008-02-19T12:04:00.002-05:00

This just captures a typical day with Elli, waking up with blue gum in her hair. She woke up and said matter-of-factly, "I got this in my hair." I had to get the peanut butter out to get the gum out and wouldn't you know it all we had was crunchy. After a few minutes we got the gum out without having to cut any hair. She spent the next hour or so walking around with bits of peanuts in her hair until bath time. I guess the real question was why she had gum in her bed in the first place huh? Seriously, another school cancellation again? When will it end?

All that was neccessary was a delay

2008-02-07T14:21:00.000-05:00

I see no reason for a full blown cancelation of the school day. After all think of the education they are missing. I guess that would not have helped Elli screaming/sobbing in Target, "I want my blankee". Or the fact that Target didn't have one pair of winter boots left, especially since these were the second pair of boots from there that broke. McDonald's which seemed like a good idea was a nightmare. We did finally find a ugly pair of boots at Meijer and they were on sale. Character boots, which I hate, but Noah was thrilled. A bright spot, I did find a pair of Sketchers for myself for $7, they're gold, Chelle you'd love them. All I wanted was to clean my house and do a litlle scrapbooking this afternoon. Oh well there's always next week.

Detox and Technology

2008-02-04T13:15:00.000-05:00

We had a great trip last week to San Antonio, TX for a Pastors conference. Grandpa and Grandma Wondergem stayed at our house with the kids. They had a blast and Noah claimed every time that we called that he wanted us to stay away longer. This week however I am now dealing with what friends of ours call "Grandpa and Grandma Detox", you know learning what the word "no" means all over again. Elli especially thinks that the world revolves around her and what she wants. Slowly, daily she is remembering what Moms rules are like. We are truly greatful that we have wonderful parents who are willing to tire themselves out for a week so that we can relax and rest. We were also able to visit some good friends from seminary who live in Houston and stay with them a few days. We really enjoyed catching up. This was the first chance I got to see Keri since graduation. Loren and Rob stayed in touch via email but we discovered through both of our Apple computers we can now talk via video mail. Even though it's been around awhile it was really cool to talk to them so soon after our visit in a "semi- real" fashion. Technology is cool.

Royalty

2008-01-22T07:41:00.001-05:00

The other night we were having a conversation at the supper table about what Rob was like as a kid. Rob was explaining that he was the biggest kid in his class in grade school and was always "King of the Mountain" during recess. Elli was carefully listening and told Rob, "Mommy was a princess". She is obsessed with princesses and was looking through a scrapbook with a picture of me in my wedding dress. With much excitement Elli said," Mommy is a princess, she is beautiful." She loves to look at that picture and is convinced that at one point I was royalty. She will gladly share the news with anybody the secret of my past youth.

Noah

2008-01-07T19:17:00.001-05:00

Noah turned 7 this year on Christmas Day. This year especially since Noah started first grade we've noticed changes. All of a sudden we are hearing phrases learned from school, some funny, some bad,one of my favorites is "I rule, you drool". ( Ok, this may one that Rob taught him). He's learning how to read and although at times it's trying he making progress. Even his fashion sense has changed as you notice in the above picture he is very "cool" in the latest headwear. Thanks Uncle Todd, Noah used his gift certificate to pick this baby out. We did quite a bit of shopping to spend his Christmas and Birthday money, we wouldn't want that money sitting around. Some of his other proud purchases were, a Michigan football jersey, a Lions jersey, fuzzy Crocs, and the ever exciting Doodle Monster. Don't worry he decided to save the last remaining $3. Wow, that's two posts in a short amount of time. DON'T FORGET TO VOTE FOR PAYTON AT BAREFOOTCENTRAL FOR FOOTER OF THE YEAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Donny Osmond - Soldier of Love

2008-01-04T09:26:00.001-05:00

This is for Ron and Todd. This is way better than Soldier Boy.

Now that's a record

2007-11-27T13:43:00.000-05:00

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

2007-11-01T22:21:00.000-04:00

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

2007-10-23T16:32:00.000-04:00

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

2007-10-10T16:12:00.000-04:00

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

2007-10-02T12:12:00.000-04:00

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

2007-09-13T07:11:00.000-04:00

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

2007-08-30T08:35:00.001-04:00

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

2007-08-23T12:49:00.000-04:00

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

2007-08-13T14:18:00.000-04:00

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

2007-08-07T08:42:00.000-04:00

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?

2007-07-26T11:52:00.000-04:00

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

2007-07-08T20:58:00.001-04:00

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

2007-06-21T20:26:00.000-04:00

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

2007-06-20T10:57:00.000-04:00

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

2007-06-07T14:32:00.001-04:00

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

2007-05-30T14:13:00.001-04:00

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

2007-05-21T14:05:00.001-04:00

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

2007-05-15T08:13:00.000-04:00

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!

2007-05-07T07:14:00.000-04:00

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!!!

2007-04-28T08:36:00.000-04:00

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

2007-04-24T22:55:00.001-04:00

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

2007-04-12T08:24:00.000-04:00

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

2007-04-03T09:38:00.001-04:00

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

2007-03-29T13:17:00.000-04:00

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

2007-03-22T09:34:00.000-04:00

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!

2007-03-07T08:05:00.000-05:00

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

2007-03-02T08:13:00.000-05:00

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

2007-02-21T12:47:00.000-05:00

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

2007-02-13T16:09:00.000-05:00

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

2007-02-07T07:51:00.000-05:00

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

2007-02-05T17:19:00.000-05:00

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

2007-01-30T08:10:00.001-05:00

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

2007-01-24T07:51:00.000-05:00

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

2007-01-15T20:12:00.000-05:00

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

2007-01-09T08:32:00.000-05:00

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

2007-01-05T12:12:00.000-05:00

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!!

Quick question

2006-12-27T08:55:00.000-05:00

For Christmas my dad gave us each a DVD with pictures on it converted from the old slides they took. We had fun laughing at the pictures we haven't seen in years. Todd, my brother was laughing at Noah the other day because he was scrapbooking. Yet after a second look at the old pictures I believe I saw Todd receive a doll as a gift. Not to mention the nose picking picture. I guess I don't have too much to worry about, right Toad?

New Songs

2006-12-19T08:58:00.000-05:00

I have discovered over the last couple of years that I now have favorite Christmas songs. Two years ago Noah was asking to hear the dog song, I thought the barking dogs. "No mom, you know Feliz navi dog. We still sing it that way and I can't help but get a smile everytime I hear it, even if he isn't with me. Another new favorite is The Little Drummer Boy. Elli discovered that she could sing along with the "rum, pa, pa, rum". Soon the whole family was singing riding down the road. I thank God for the gift of these beautiful children and the moments I get to share with them. God has really shown me this year to stop and enjoy this year and he has given me much relief that only he can give because I am terrible at trying to "destress" myself. I am so grateful for everything he has done for me and the very reason behind Christmas. Sending his child to save me from myself.

Sugar and spice

2006-12-05T08:37:00.000-05:00

and everything nice? That's what little girls are supposed to be made of. That is not always true for mine. I was so excited when I found out I was having a girl. Pink, bows, dolls and of course the fun we would have shopping someday while Rob and Noah were off hunting. But this little girl of mine is already showing interest in deer. Deer??? She gets all excited to see a deer on t.v. or in one of Rob's magazines. You can't tear her away from a wildlife scene from a store like Gander mountain. Then to top it off she kept bringing this shirt to Rob until he put it on. Maybe all hope is not lost, she does like jewelry and playing with her hair. Plus, I've got a few years to get the shopping bug in her system. I can always teach her a few cheers, right Fig?

Been Busy

2006-11-30T13:01:00.000-05:00

All right, I do need new material. Nobody should have to look at Raging Cow that long. I have been very busy the last two weeks. Shopping and decorating and planning for Christmas, if I was as high tech as Chelle you can bet I would have Christmas music playing for your pleasure. This afternoon Noah and I were singing along with Jingle Bells while Elli did her little dance move, yet again another cute picture missed, but my new camera is on the way. I also missed a picture of her eating cookie dough out of the bowl. Oops left it too close to the edge of the counter. Unlike Fig and Kraig -e-boy Elli knows a good cookie when she tastes it. Anyway hopefully this little rambling will keep you happy until I have time to blog on a real subject. Someday I would really like to share about what's going with our church.

Happy Birthday Ron

2006-11-22T07:28:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to wish my brother a happy birthday and say a few nice things about him (really). One thing about my brother is that he can always make me laugh, even when I decide that I am not going to laugh at something stupid he says. Growing up I always wanted my brothers acceptance, so I loved it when he started letting me ride out to the cottage. The radio would be blasting with Billy Idol or the Beach Boys but I wouldn't say a word about the loudness for fear of not being allowed to ride with him again. I also remember the time he brought me to his ex-girlfriends house without informing them I was his sister. I was thrilled that they thought I looked old enough to be his girlfriend. For most of my life I have thought pretty highly of my brother ( ok, not the early years growing up) and I have seen him turn into a great husband and wonderful dad. We don't often get too mushy in my family but I am going to break tradition and tell him that I love him and that I am proud to have him as my brother.

Camera

2006-11-14T07:22:00.000-05:00

Ok out there I need some help. I need to get a new digital camera, mine broke and they wanted $169 deposit to fix it of which it might cost more or that might cost less. I don't think so. Let me know if you know of any good digital cameras with 5 or 6 megapixels and preferably underd $200. I looked on the internet but there are so many cameras and reviews it's hard to know what to go with. So I am using my blog readers so that you can help me pick out the right camera and then in turn can view some great pictures. I already missed one of Elli sitting in my underwear drawer.

Jingle Bells

2006-11-13T15:44:00.000-05:00

I love Christmas time. I will even admit to watching a Christmas movie and playing Christmas music already. Noah has been singing Rudolph the Red nosed reindeer around the house because they are singing it for the school Christmas program and I have been singing right along. ( Noah sounds great, me not so good) I am excited about making Christmas lists and yes shopping the day after Thanksgiving. I am a Christmas freak. Anyone else out there?

Happy Birthday Mom!

2006-11-02T18:57:00.000-05:00

I liked what Chelle did with telling about what her parents meant to her, so I am going to do the same. In honor of my mom's 60th birthday ( November 3) I would like to start with her. I have a lot of great memories with my mom. - Shopping, paying for cookies and leaving them at the counter - Watching for Rob's Bronco to drive by the house all the while crying over the latest fight (remember that night mom?) - Moving to Denver and the many heart wrenching phones calls - Bra shopping ( I won't go in to details) ended up fun - Being able to call mom and tell about the new thing one of my kids and her being as excited as I am These are just a few of the memories to share. What I have truly felt my whole life from my mom is her love and acceptance of me. When things have gotten really tough in my life I know that I can go home and my mom will wrap her arms around me and cry with me and her tears say more than any words. I also see the love she has for my children and that means the world to me. I hope you know how much you mean to me and that I love you very much. Thank you for everything you have done for me. Happy birthday Mom.

Karate

2006-10-29T12:54:00.000-05:00

This was the conversation I heard the other day when Noah was playing with the neighbor Ryan. I was in my bedroom at the time. Ryan : "Let's play karate." Noah:" OK." Ryan: "Kick me in the stomach as hard as you can." Voice in my head: Noah wouldn't do that. . . . yeah he would Me, aloud : "Noah, don't.... Ryan interuppting: "OHHHHHHHHHH," followed by crying Noah footsteps running towards the bedroom, followed by his crying. Noah: "I didn't mean to hurt him." I have to tell you I had a hard time not laughing, well I did later that night telling Rob the story. I didn't punish Noah as he felt pretty bad and learned a lesson, and in all fairness he was only doing what Ryan said. Ahh, the logic of five year old boys.

The Great Chapstick Debate

2006-10-23T16:35:00.000-04:00

I use to be a faithful chapstick or lip balm wearer. I would never miss a night. A few weeks ago I lost my chapstick and went without and have ever since. I am surprised to say I don't notice a difference in my lips. I have heard it rumored that your lips become "addicted" to the balm and that is how the companies suck you in and make their money. I have also heard that if you don't ever use balm you will never need to use balm. I don't agree with that as I have had chapped lips healed by chapstick. I want to hear what you think. I have heard this discussions come up amongst some of my readers. To moisturize or not?

Two Goals!!

2006-10-17T08:15:00.000-04:00

This fall we entered the busy world of sports. Practice on Mondays, games on Saturdays. At first Rob and I wondered if all we were doing was making our lives busier. As the season got started we all learned a lot about soccer and how competitive sports are. The blue team was rumored to have recruited kids (Come on, they're 5) and they were an aggressive bunch of little kids. I wasn't so sure I would enjoy watching soccer after the years of being dragged to all my brothers activities, but I was wrong. It is really exciting to see your child learn and improve on something new. What a difference a season makes, Noah became quite a little soccer player. He finished the last game with two scored goals. It was better than the Tigers going to the world series. Can't wait for spring. This week I also learned that it is better to give than to receive, especially if it is from Professional Pharmacy.

Now that's a good looking bunch

2006-10-10T15:05:00.000-04:00

Here are some new family pictures that were taken. Thanks to Melinda who did a great job taking them. Sorry there are no man nipples to be found.

Guilty Pleasures

2006-10-04T15:52:00.000-04:00

Ok, things have been a little slow in the blog world, so let's talk reality TV. My favorite one is Dancing with the Stars. I think they should maybe change the title to Dancing with the former or unknown Stars because half of them I don't know and the other half you don't see too much anymore. I do have my favorite picks this season. I am liking Mario (from Saved by the bell) and Emmit Smith. I also liked Vivica A. Fox but she unfairly got voted off last night. Rob likes Sara Evans, and although she can sing she really isn't much of a dancer. I'm sorry Rob but either Sara has got to go. Jerry Springer must also be voted off. Let me here from you. What do you think of our dancing stars? What is your guilty pleasure?

Change

2006-10-01T13:45:00.000-04:00

Over the weekend Noah's best buddy Jack moved out of our neighborhood. Noah is a little sad, but I am devastated. I like Jack, he's a sweet little boy with nice manners. The two were inseparable all summer and up until this weekend the first words out of Noah's mouth after school were "Is Jack out?" Now don't get me wrong there are other little boys in our neighborhood for Noah to play with. But I am not quite as comfortable with Noah playing over at their houses. Jack's parents, Steve and April had the same beliefs as Rob and I and disciplined similarly. I never worried when he was at their house and I think they felt the same. This is definitely the kind of change I hate.

What makes you smile?

2006-09-27T19:39:00.000-04:00

When Noah was little he discovered M&M's. He still loves them till this day. Elli has recently discovered chocolate chip cookies and can't get enough. See the joy and laughter they bring her? Or maybe it's just a certain package of chocolate chip cookies? You tell me.

I swear I'll never say that

2006-09-26T12:44:00.000-04:00

Noah seems to ask me on a daily basis where his shoes are. As if I should magically know where they are. But yet again he asked. All of a sudden words I swore I would never say came flying out of my mouth, "The last time I wore them I put them away." I can't count the number of times I heard my dad say that as I was looking for an item of clothing. How I hated it. I swore that I would never repeat that to my kids. It didn't help Noah to find the shoes but it did make me realize why my dad got so frustrated. Another favorite of mine is "For crying outloud!" As a kid that never made sense, who would cry silently? What phrases have you repeated?

It's a first

2006-09-24T13:51:00.000-04:00

It's a first, the Wondergem family has two vehicles that are from the current decade. This is Rob's new ride. He went from a 1988 truck to a 2000 truck. Rob struck a deal, once again playing the preacher card. All right Rob, I showed off your new truck. Next time write on your own blog.

Blog World

2006-09-16T14:33:00.000-04:00

I have now entered the blog world. I have toyed for some time with the idea of having my own blog. So here it is. I chose a name for my blog that ironically at times I have hated being labeled as. When meeting new people the question eventually comes up "What does your husband do for a living?" I will admit at times I cringe to hear that question. Nobody acts differently around you if your husband is a dentist or an accoutant but tell them you are married to a pastor and suddenly they watch every word they say or start apologizing for anything they may have said before. I do have to admit there are some advantages to being a pastors wife, perks you might say. Discounted vacation homes, many baked goods at Christmas, and the biggest blessing the love and support of your congregation, family and friends who stand behind you with prayers and support. Not everyone can say that about their job. Overall I wanted to show how normal (or not normal) I am being a preachers wife. So I am going to embrace the title and show people we are all just human and need the grace of God. Preachers wife or not.