Count it all JOY

Christmas Break!

2011-12-31T15:08:00.002-05:00

MawMaw and PawPaw came to visit for Christmas this year! They flew in on Wednesday night, the 21st. JB and Brady went to get them while Rachel and I went to Awana. The kids and I had school on Thursday and half day Friday, but then we were all off for Christmas vacation! JB was on Christmas standdown, so except for the long hour that he had to put in on Tuesday and Friday mornings....he was off as well! We all went over to Norm's diner (except MM) on Saturday morn (Christmas eve) for a big ol breakfast! The kids couldn't wait to open their Christmas eve gifts after it got dark...so we went out in the afternoon to shoot some hoops down at the school to pass time:) Oh, and made cookies too! I think PawPaw and I took a nap and then we opened presents!!! Brady loved his tool set and Rachel loved her cotton balls and duck tape!!!! :) Christmas morning was most enjoyable, watching the kids with so much excitement. We all went to church to hear the Cantata and then came home for a big fried Chicken meal. I think Paw Paw and I took a nap. Then we drove around Christmas night and looked at Christmas lights.....so pretty! Monday started with a big biscuits and gravy breakfast and I think PawPaw and I took a nap. Then we shipped MM and PP off for their night at the Inn at Mystic which was their Christmas present. We did some shopping that night and ate at Longhorn Steakhouse because Rach got us a giftcard there for Christmas!!! Tuesday, MM and PP returned, we just hung around...I think PP and I took a nap, and then we got some Paul's pasta for dinner! Wednesday we had to take them back to the airport:( Thursday we took down our Christmas stuff and cleaned the house all up....that makes me happy:) The kids have truly enjoyed their time off....they have played so well together and we have all just been able to relax and take it easy! It has been a great time together!!! We still have a couple more days until we all go back to reality!!! But, I am thankful for the reality that we have! Enough money to have all we need, friends and family so full of love, Our God that is over all and in all, even in our toughest times. We are believing that 2012 is going to be a year full of healing for the Rodgers' family and full of joy in God's amazing hands!!!! Happy New Year!

Who says you can't have Christmas in November and then again in December???

2011-12-31T14:17:00.009-05:00

In November, The kids and I headed to Paducah!

We met up with Uncle Kevin and Phebe for a quick visit, dinner and pictures at McDonalds!!!

While we were there we celebrated my birthday, had 2 Christmases before Thanksgiving, had Thanksgiving, and spent lots of great time with Family and Friends. Gramma got her Kidney stones all busted up too....that made her feel lots better:)

Family photo....Grandpa always loves having his picture taken!!

Gramma and her little santa and little elf!

Bob, Retie, Brian, and Lexi got to come!!!

My two siblings and their wonderful spouses!

The "big" kids!

The "little" kids!

Making cookies! (At our house, Christmas eve)

Christmas morning!

Queen Lacie!

Queen Gracie!

Brady lost a tooth! Tuesday, December 27th!!!

Christmas family photo!!!

Marcella Shandi Stivers

2011-12-31T14:13:00.002-05:00

Jody, Shannon and Hudson returned home from Ethiopia on Christmas night. They passed court and now Marcella is officially a Stivers! They got to spend some days with her while they were there but then had to leave her for just a few more weeks until they go get her for good. I can't wait to meet her!!! She is so very precious and sweet in the pictures.....which I will post when I can get my computer to save them!!! Thank you, Lord, for Marcella!

Waiting for our new sweet face.....

2011-11-12T16:17:00.002-05:00

Jody and Shannon got their referral for their newest addition to the family. They knew she would be young...but WOW, we are getting a very young little girl. She was 4 months old around the 20th of October! They just got their court date for their first appearance in Ethiopia....December 22nd. Hoping to have her just a few short weeks after that!!! She is precious....Her name is Marcella!!!!!

Then in the fall......

2011-11-12T15:58:00.004-05:00

On Labor day weekend we went to Battleship Cove in Massachusetts and then we went and walked the Cliff Walk in Newport, RI...it was a Perfect, Gorgeous day! The kids (and me) started school on Tues. Sept. 6th. We were supposed to start on Aug. 31st but Hurricane Irene came through instead :) Rach went to 5th grade and Brady to 1st.....so far, so good! We went to Holmberg Orchards and picked some apples and pumpkins....then we carved the pumpkins with the Filiatreault's...Fun!!! And then we trick or treated with Oscar the grouch and Toad the Mushroom!!! Gracie went too!!!!

Once upon a time, in the summer....

2011-11-12T15:31:00.004-05:00

We went to Kentucky, Indiana, and Georgia! We went down to Me and Paw's old stompin' grounds in Ballard. Rach, Brady, Reese and Nat got to live life on the wild side and ride in the BACK of a pickup truck!!!! And we threw lots of rocks that day!!!! We went to Mammaw's house and visitied with her, Reite and Bob....nice visit. We went to the Kolb's house and got to see our very missed friends. Cindy and I did plenty of talking:) We went to Atlanta and got to be at Grandpa's Shepherd Center Graduation! We also got to go to the Georgia Aquarium with Gramma! We brought Grandpa back to Paducah for the first time in almost 6 months.....He has come so far! We spent time together with family and friends and ofcourse got to watch the Annual Summer show put on by the Buzzin' Cousins!!!! They are a precious bunch! Once again....a blessed summer visit!!!!

2011-09-27T12:52:00.003-04:00

So, I have a lot of catching up to do since the summer...But....had to get this one down! Retie and Bob came to visit us on Sunday on their way to Vermont. They bought an older, white, cargo-like van and converted it to their own personal camper. Very nice! But it is very funny and I make fun of them and call it the "kidnapper van." So, Brady went to school on Monday and told his teacher that his aunt and uncle came to visit and they were driving the "Murder Mobile." WOW! That had to have been some crazy rewiring that his brain did!!! You just never know what might come out of his mouth!!! :)

update on Brady's plans for the future....

2011-06-26T18:04:00.001-04:00

First he is going to live in Hawaii while he is in the Navy.....Then when he retires, he is going to be a cowboy in the "Old West", then he is going to move to New York City, but he's not sure if he is going to live in Brooklyn or just plain New York City...................smile:)

Cool pics

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Rach took these on her itouch.....thought they were cool!

And the award goes to......

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Honor roll certificate from Mrs. Anderson (Principal), Student Councel Representative recognition from Mrs. Anderson (Gym teacher), Consistency Award from Mr. Tracy. Great Year Rach!!!

Heart to Heart

2011-06-26T17:42:00.002-04:00

Brady, on June 10th, was laying in the floor in Rachel's bedroom while Rachel and I were doing a devotion. He stopped us and asked me how does he make sure that he knows Jesus and goes to heaven. So Rachel and I answered a lot of his questions and just tried to help him put all the pieces together. He was very emotional, which was very surprising to me, and he said the sweetest prayer asking Jesus to come into his heart. With a child so young, it is hard to tell if they truly understand what they are doing....do they really mean it??? But what I do know is that my children and myself had a real heart to heart that night and I know that God was working in Brady's heart........in all of our hearts!

Happy 36th Birthday Daddy!

2011-06-26T17:35:00.003-04:00

He just always gets sooo excited to blow out his candle! Just can't settle him down sometimes......

Still Dancing....

2011-06-26T17:19:00.003-04:00

Another wonderful recital! She dances with ease and never misses a beat! She has a true hearts desire to dance, and a mind to remember it all. You are a blessing Rach!

The Graduate...

2011-06-26T17:01:00.002-04:00

There is a train coming at full speed. I put out my hands and stand strong, pushing against the front of it as hard as I can to stop it....but it is too powerful. It just keeps going. I can hear it and feel it, I can climb aboard and enjoy the ride. I can take detours and see beautiful scenery. It can be scary and dark. But as hard as I try, I can't stop it...it has a destination. That is how I feel when I think about my children. I want to hang on for dear life, I want to stop them from growing one more day. Where did the baby days go? The toddler years? Preschool? And now Kindergarten for Brady has come and gone. And so I listen and hear them, I hug them to feel them, and I try my hardest to enjoy the ride. I try to take detours and slow down and see the beauty in God's creation. There are scary times and hard days....but mostly joy. I can't seem to stop the time. They are headed, we are all headed, for our final destination. May my children desire to follow God down the tracks of their life!

Congratulations Brady! You had an awesome year.......

Ahhh, the beautiful outdoors!

2011-06-26T16:03:00.007-04:00

Campfires and S'mores, hiking and biking, food and friends, goats and peacocks, swimming and playing games in the rain..........that's what it's all about! We have gone on two camping trips this year so far. Hidden Acres and Nature's Campsites. The Filiatreault's (Bill, DeeDee, Willis and Lucy) joined us for the fun! And we must not forget the climb to Mt. Misery......we figured out why it is called Mt. Misery:) I am so thankful for our little camper, for our friends and for God's beautiful creations!!!

Easter 2011

2011-06-26T15:50:00.005-04:00

Hosanna! Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!!!!

Progress...

2011-06-26T15:39:00.002-04:00

One step forward and two steps back....that is how Gramma and Grandpa feel some days. It seems there is always something new to worry about, some new trial, but the progress that is being made is amazing! The movement in the arms, followed by some ability to grasp with his fingers. They have been putting him on the machine called the loco mat that stands him up and works his legs. They are now standing him up and holding him up with a special waist band. Some hold him up while others help him take steps. Amazing!!! We still don't know, and won't for some time, what his abilities will be, but we do know that he has made great progress in these short months. Gramma has been right by his side the whole time and they are getting through all of this together. We can't wait for them to be home and settled, but we want him to get as much help in Atlanta as possible. To God be the glory!!!

2011-04-11T13:51:00.002-04:00

MawMaw, PawPaw, Hudson and Natalie came for a visit for their spring break. PawPaw took Hudson and Nat to Norm's diner ( a couple times), to Fort Trumbull, and to climb on the rocks by the water. I think climbing on the rocks came in second just after eating at Norms:) unfortunately, I got no pictures of all the kids together or of PawPaw.....I didn't do well on that this time, but thankfully PawPaw got these on his iphone. It was a wonderful visit.........with ofcourse Rach getting sick at the end. What kind of trip would it be without someone getting sick:)

Brady loses his first tooth! April 8th 2011...

2011-04-11T13:41:00.002-04:00

Just like Rachel, he already had a tooth coming in behind it. He was ready to get that sucker out....not a tear in his eyes!!! Ofcourse he is 6 1/2, Rach was just 5 when here first one came out:)

On a lighter note...

2011-04-11T13:37:00.002-04:00

Brady has decided he wants to be a Navy Cop with a police dog! And he is going to move to Hawaii. The other day when me and the kids were exiting the base after going to the commissary, I spotted a navy cop with a dog. I pointed him out. Brady said "that's exactly what I want to be." Rachel then said "Brady, by the time you are in the navy, that guy will probably be dead!" I said well Rach, Brady could be in the navy in 12 years. That guys looks about 25. So he will be about 37 in 12 years. I am 34....so you think he will be old enough to be dead huh? It is just always so funny how kids see the whole age thing.....I remember feeling the same way when I was little:)

When life makes a U turn....

2011-04-11T12:59:00.002-04:00

On February 22nd, 2011 I woke up with a horrible headache. The kids were out of school that day for winter break. I always love it when they are home and we can just do what we want to do. They did have a dentist appointment that morning so we left around 10 to go. While we were waiting I recieved a text from my Brother in law, Kevin. He asked if it was a good time to talk....I got nervous at that point...but by now they had called the kids back and they were both in a dentist chair. I didn't call him at that point, but soon I got a call from JB. "Dad has fallen at work and is being airlifted to Vanderbilt." We didn't know anything else, we didn't know what the injuries were. We didn't know if he was going to live. All this while I smile at my children and "listen" to the dentist talk about needing to floss more. My head was swimming, my heart was pounding...I just kept saying to God, "Lord, you are Almighty....I place this whole situation in Your hands." We finally are done at the dentist and I talked to JB again...he says that his head is fine, but he can't move.....paralyzed??? I then talk briefly with Linda as she is on her way to Nashville with our friend Yvonne. She didn't know much, she was being so brave. The kids and I then just went home and waited for JB.....Kevin was waiting in Nashville for the helicopter to get there. Over the course of the evening the reports were that this was possibly temporary...maybe after the swelling goes down he will be able to move. JB and I decided to wait, because if it was temporary, then he would heal up just fine and we wouldn't really be needed. They did an MRI in the middle of the night....we didn't hear anything by morning...so JB went to work. The kids and I went to school. JB called about 9:30 that morning and said in a voice that I have never heard him have "they say he is a quadrapalegic." The word was heart wrenching. Tears came to my eyes, my heart was racing again......my head still pounding from the morning before. JB said let's just drive..so the kids and I left the school at lunchtime which gave me time to make some phonecalls and get myself together.....and gave JB some time at home alone. The teachers at Wildwood....just so supportive and understanding. I knew we would be prayed for. Off we went, driving towards Nashville, trying to explain things to the kids...not really knowing ourselves. Hating that Linda and Kevin are there without us...knowing they are dealing with all of this firsthand. We stop for the night....didnt' really sleep well and then finish the drive the next day. As we approach the hospital, my heart races again...my stomache turns as we anticipate seeing him....facing this giant. My dad is there to get the kids, his hug is irreplaceable. We finally get to Linda and Kevin...able to hug them and just be together. We get to see Donnie and he is so talkative...very emotional...he looks better than we thought he might....this was just So Big!!!! The whole time just talking to the Lord...praising Him for being in control, for being a God that loves us so much...asking Him to bring peace, rest and healing. To bring understanding and comfort. The kids go off to Paducah where they were taken care of like royalty for the next few days. We head to Atlanta the next morning. Donnie by ambulance...kevin in his car, JB in Linda's car, Me and Linda in our car. Heading to The shepherd Center....Rehab. His injury is incomplete...meaning there is hope for movement. Upon arriving there, we have lots of information thrown at us. It is overwhelming....Praying that Linda could just take it one thing at a time. We spent that week just trying to get things settled, get a grip on what was coming....how things were going to be for a while...what we needed to do. Kevin became our business man and took care of so much. We all just tried to be there for Linda...for support and help. She was exhausted and overwhelmed but being so strong for Donnie. And from this point Donnie started having his doctor and nurses and therapists working with him day and night to meet all of his needs and start him on the road to moving again. Mom and Dad brought the kids to us on Wednesday and they got to see Grandpa and Gramma and spend some time before we headed home on Saturday. It was so hard to leave....we felt like we were just leaving them there to deal with all of this and we were just going home to live our "normal" life. But God was so good and between kevin and other family and friends, He provided just the right people at just the right times. JB made a trip there last weekend and could definitely see the progress he is making. Lifting his right arm, some movement in his left arm. He now has a baclofen pump inside of him to help calm his muscle spasms. Grandpa is on a long road. He has suffered some miserable days and nights. He has had pain. He has dealt with so many emotions. Yet, he is strong and willing to work hard to get back what he can. He and Gramma are on a new journey and we are so proud of them both. I continue to pray for more movement, for healing and for big strides. But most of all, I pray that all of our hearts are open to God. To his love and power. To his strength, comfort, rest, and joy that only He can give. That God will use this giant in Donnie's life, in all of our lives, to make us all know Him more. He has led us to make a U-turn, may the new direction bring glory and honor to Him!

Rachel is 10......(how did that happen?)

2011-04-11T12:45:00.002-04:00

What a FABULOUS weekend. Nae Nae, Shannon, Sydney, Natalie and Reese all came. We went to eat at Ortegas Friday night. We went to the Providence Place mall and ate at the Cheesecake Factory on Saturday. On Sunday we got pizza and went Rollerskating. Watched Nannie McPhee Returns and then Watched the Superbowl. Cake, Icecream, and presents were in there somewhere too! It was really a blast. But poor Brady was sick most of the weekend...but he still enjoyed his Reesy:) I am so proud of my baby girl............what a treasure she is!!!!

The end of one year, the beginning of another!

2011-01-14T11:13:00.010-05:00

Snow, Snow and more snow!

The buzzin Cousins!

Christmas morning!

Thanksgiving!

Mommy's 34th Birthday!

Fun in the leaves!

Ocean Drive...Newport!

The Newport Mansions!

Halloween Fun!

Thank you Lord, for all of the wonderful opportunities you have blessed us with and the amazing people you have put into our lives! May we honor You with our lives!

Old Sturbridge Village....a great field trip!

2010-10-29T16:45:00.003-04:00

I can't seem to get the pictures to load for this, but it sure was a great time. We went back to 1830 and were able to see how life was back then. From the town bank and store, to the church and the homes of the rich and poor. The blacksmith, the potter, the tin smith, and all the animals used for the work. It was a great experience to see and hear how things were done on a daily basis. Rachel's class got to make cookies baked in front of a fire in a special tin "oven". The were called Jumbles and the recipe was called a reciept....Boy are we spoiled today!!!! What a great day!

MawMaw, PawPaw, and Carson Renee...

2010-10-29T16:36:00.004-04:00

We had a wonderful week with them too! MawMaw was feeling a little better on some days so she got to enjoy some things with us. We went to Bluff point, we went to see the movie Secretariat, took some walks around the neighborhood, and got to sing at church together. It was a very nice, relaxing time! And Carson is just a joy to be with. It is so exciting to hear her talk about her work in El Salvador and her hearts desire to be there with those children. I know that God has BIG plans for her!!!!

Gramma and Grandpa came for a visit......

2010-10-29T16:12:00.006-04:00

Gramma and Grandpa get to come most years on her fall break and that means they are always here around Brady's birthday. It is always a great week. We are so blessed to have such great parents!!!

My Brady is 6....Happy birthday buddy!

2010-10-29T13:55:00.002-04:00

Did I ever think my baby boy would be 6? NO! But I am sure so blessed by him. He is so thoughtful and sweet....He sure does enjoy his days...his toys....his time! There is never anything he couldn't be or anywhere he couldn't go.......his imagination is the best! I love you with all my heart Brady Lee Rodgers!!!!!!

Dawn and Megan come to visit!

2010-10-29T13:48:00.002-04:00

We are so blessed to still get to see the Fetterly's since they moved to Hawaii! Dawn's family is from here so while we still live in CT, we will get to see them when they visit! It was such a fun evening...but there is never enough time!!!

First day of school!

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Rachel's first day of 4th grade...

Brady's first day of Kindergarten..

I am so proud of them!!!

It's great to have cousins!

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I love this picture!

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Jody, Shannon, Carson, Sydney, Hudson and A.J

Submarines, Corndogs, and very special friends....

2010-10-29T13:25:00.002-04:00

We were blessed to be able to be at Carl's retirement ceremony! JB was honored to be a guest speaker and to present Carl with this lovely corndog shirt! Thank you Carl for your service to our country for the past 20 years!!! And thank you Kolb family for your friendship!

A camping we will go....

2010-10-29T13:21:00.003-04:00

We decided to buy a camper...not new...not big...but a great investment! We had such a good time on our first "trial" camping trip and I look forward to the many, many, more good times we will have! It is a great time to just talk, walk, and spend time with my family. To really notice the amazing creations that God has given to us!

It's a small world.......after all

2010-07-27T20:00:00.002-04:00

I have been on the it's a small world ride before. I have always thought it was a neat ride...mostly just to cool off:) But as I was on there this time I had a totally different thought process. As I looked around and saw all of these children...brown hair, pink hair, dark skin, light skin, curly hair, stright hair...I couldn't help but think of my family now and how we have been so blessed with all of our children. Some with dark hair, some with light. Some are blue eyed, some brown, some green. And even now we have one with dark skin and one with really dark skin. One with very straight black black hair and one with very very curly black hair. These boys would have spoken a different language, had a different culture, but they are now part of our family, our culture, our heritage. I am so thankful for our very diverse family, for each one of these precious children. And as we were at Disney I heard so many different languages. Some of them looked just like me but spoke a language I couldn't understand. Some of them looked very different from me, but yet spoke my own language. Each one of us is a special and unique creation from God and God loves each and every one of us. I want to be used to help some of these special people to know who God is and what He has done for each one of us. Am I willing to step out and be bold enough?

A few more disney pictures....

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Disney World....Day by day...

2010-07-27T16:40:00.013-04:00

SATURDAY, JULY 17TH

We dropped Gracie off at the kennel and headed for the airport! Our flight went perfect and we landed in Orlando. We then took the Magical Express bus to our resort and check in was great. We took a look at our room, grabbed some dinner at the Contempo Cafe, and headed to Magic Kingdom! We were just so excited! We stayed pretty late that night....we were exhausted and slept like rocks that night!

SUNDAY, JULY 18TH

We slept in a little this morning....ahhh refreshed, ready to go again. We went back to Magic Kingdom! We rode more rides and saw some Characters! We had dinner at Tony's Town Square. It was a nice Italian restaurant. The lady and the tramp were on their fountain there....it was yummy! Then we went back to the resort and went for a swim. The kids loved the pool and they had a blast on the waterslide! Then we got cleaned up and went down for the outdoor movie.."Bedtime Stories"....another great day.....exhausted again:)

MONDAY JULY 19TH

We got up and caught the monorail over to Epcot. Brady was very impressed with the size of that huge ball!!! The monorail gave us a nice little tour of some of Epcot before dropping us off. We rode the Nemo ride which was just next to our lunch stop. We ate at Coral Reef Restaurant. It was a seafood place and our table was up next to the big aquarium of fish, sting rays, sharks and other sea creatures. Pretty Cool! The kids got to be Kim Possible secret agents that day and they got to save France! We then went back to the resort and ate some dinner at Contempo Cafe again. Then we got ready to swim and went swimming in the dark!!!! Fun night!

TUESDAY, JULY 20TH

Off to Hollywood Studios today! It was hot, hot, hot! We had lunch at a really cool place, 50's Prime Time cafe. It was all set up just like the 50's and it was a nice "homemade" meal for us! We did the Star tours ride twice because Brady loved that so very, very much! Then we just got too hot, so we headed back to the resort to the pool again! We decided to ride over to the Grand Floridian to have dinner and see that hotel and then we went back to Magic Kingdom....that's where the kids wanted to go! And late that night while we were there, Brady and JB went off to ride some things while Rach and I did Space Mountain, but the line was so long that we decided not to. So we decided just to sit and relax while we waited for the boys. While we sat there we had the best conversation. We just talked about lots of things...how much we missed Daddy last year and just about lots of things.....just "life"! I love moments like that, just talking with my kids one on one and hearing what is on their hearts....I will always remember that spot!

WEDNESDAY, JULY 21ST

To Animal Kingdom we go! Lots of really neat animals to see. We got to take a safari which was really cool! Giraffes, elephants, lions and all kinds of animals roaming freely. We got wet on the Khali River Rapids which felt really nice! We left in time to go back to the room and get ready for Chef Mickey's! The kids enjoyed seeing all the characters and eating off of the buffet. That night we just stayed at the resort. I did a load of laundry (realizing that I had never used a laundromat before...spoiled) and JB took the kids to the game room upstairs. They were in there for like 2 hours...they had a great time and came back with prizes!

THURSDAY, JULY 22ND

We took the morning easy, trying to figure out just what we wanted to do. We went by the Contempo Cafe for a quick bite for lunch and then spent the whole afternoon at the pool. It was so fun just to swim and watch the kids go down the slide...ofcourse JB and I went some too:) Brady tried real hard to swim without his floaties and got real brave about going all the way under the water. We made dinner reservations at The Plaza Restaurant at Magic Kingdom. It was good. Then we went to Mickey's Toon Town for our "Family Time" which Brady had all planned for us. He learned his way to Mickey's Toon Town from anywhere in the park, so he led the way. We rode Goofy's rollercoaster...yet again...and toured Mickey and Minnie's houses....also yet again:) We stayed for the fireworks and then the 11:00 electrical lights parade which was really neat to see. We walked back to the hotel because the monorail was really packed with everyone leaving at the same time.....it was a great day!

FRIDAY, JULY 23RD

We headed back to Magic Kingdom for our lunch at Crystal Palace with Pooh and his friends. That was a really nice lunch buffet and the kids had a great time seeing the Characters. They got to follow Piglet around for the "dance party"! JB and Rach went to ride the stitch ride and Buzz lightyear again while Brady and I went to......you guessed it.....Mickey's Toon Town.....and we rode goofy's rollercoaster and toured Minnie and Mickey's houses......just something different:) Then we got all settled down to watch the show at the castle and then it rained....and it rained hard. We were soaked to the core...but all we could do was laugh! It was refreshing. We decided to order Papa John's pizza for dinner (which was not on the dining plan...but it sounded so good). So we ate that in the room and then went for one last swim at the pool. The hot tub was nice in the evening too. Then we got showers and walked over to the Bay Lake Tower to see what their hotel was like. It was very nice too.

SATURDAY, JULY 24TH

Well, it's time to go. We all had such a good time. I couldn't believe how smoothly our entire trip went. This was a trip that JB and I have talked about for years and it finally happened and it happened just how we wanted. I am so thankful for the opportunity to go and just truly enjoy this week as a family and so thankful that everyone was happy, healthy and safe. We caught the magical express to the airport. The Orlando airport has shops and everything so we looked around in them. Then we got to eat at Chick-fil-A(another restaurant that we miss from home) and then we headed to our gate. Our flight was delayed about an hour and a half, but I wasn't about to complain after the wonderful week we were given. I was really just sad that it was all over, but had to focus on being happy and thankful for such good memories. It was truly a dream come true vacation!!!!

15 Wonderful years!!!

2010-07-13T12:01:00.002-04:00

I am so thankful for our 15 years of marriage. Each year that comes and goes builds upon the years before..........creating such a special and unique bond. God has blessed us abundantly!

Friends forever

2010-07-13T11:35:00.002-04:00

Living the Navy life we have definitely learned that friends come and friends go. We come and we go. We have been so blessed throughout all of these years to meet so many different people and families. Some are for a short time, a season of our life. Some are forever friends. JB and Carl checked aboard the USS Memphis the same year and Cindy and I met shortly after. We soon realized that our children were the same ages, Drew and Rachel were even in the same class. We were from the same part of the country, she knows the town where my Grandmother lives.....no one knows that! We soon learned that she and I had a mutual friend in Georgia where we both lived at the same time but didn't know each other.....all sorts of little coincidences. We also found that we had something greater in common and that was Christ....we both love Him and wanted to live our lives in accordance with that. Our husbands headed for sea and then were gone several months of the next year and a half. They did a six month deployment together in which they were able to be there for one another as well. Cindy and I developed a wonderful friendship that would serve as a "live preserver" during a very hard year. We laughed, cried, prayed and just spent time together passing the days until our husbands were home. And ofcourse we have spent Friday nights together for a couple of years at McDonalds and then back to one of our homes to talk or play games or whatever.......with our without hubbies! Our children love to be together! But now they are moving forward in their life, Carl just retired from the Navy and they are moving home. I am so excited for them to be doing that, but ofcourse I will miss them with all my heart. But we will keep up, and one day, we will live much closer to them............Thank you Lord for Forever Friends!!!!

Every year....

2010-07-13T11:26:00.002-04:00

Every year Dad has taken pictures of me and the kids (or the kid) since Rach was a baby. Some years we go all out and some years we make it simple. We've been in all sorts of environments. In paducah, in Ga, in Connecticut, at the water, in the swamp:), by the trees, in backyards, frontyards, in swings, downtown, out in the country.....just all over the place. This year we chose to stay inside in the cool airconditioning....I cherish these pictures year after year!

Summer fun in Paducah

2010-07-13T11:07:00.002-04:00

I didn't really get very many pictures from my trip this year because I took my video camera, but here are a few. We had a wonderful time visiting. We got to go to Kimberly's and swim with all the kids, I got to go to dinner with my school friends, got to spend some time with Yvonne and the boys, got lots of good time with our family. Fishing with PawPaw, Six flags and the "Big play", get together at Aunt Janices where we got to see lots of family and just lots of fun times. Meeting A.J. for the first time was definitely a highlight, boy is he amazing! We got to be a part of Syd's birthday party....very fun! And ofcourse Brady and Rachel both had strep throat and Rachel had some very sore and swollen places on her feet??????, but somehow we can't go there without medical problems:) We ended our trip again this year at Uncle Kevin and Phebe's. We went to Chick-fil-A, the zoo, and then they grilled a yummy dinner for us that night. We are blessed by all of the family and friends that we have back home...........truly blessed!

Retie,Bob, campfires and smores.....

2010-07-13T10:55:00.002-04:00

My aunt Retie and Uncle Bob came through town on their way to his family in Vermont. They camped down the road in Mystic. We went over to visit the night they got there and then spent the whole day together the next day. We went to the sub museum(uss nautilus), then we went to Mystic and ate at Mystic Pizza and walked around, then back to our house for a bit and then back to the campsite. They started a fire and we had roasted hotdogs and made yummy smores!!! It was so much fun spending time with them. We also played volleyball with Retie.....I don't think any of us are quite ready for the pros, but it was fun!!!!

On your toes then tap, tap, tap.

2010-07-13T10:19:00.002-04:00

Rach has finished her 3rd year of ballet and her first year of Tap. She absolutely loves to dance. She practices almost every day or any time that she is bored. I love that she loves it so much. I don't know if her love for it will fade over the years or if it will be a lifelong love, but for now, it is a wonderful part of her life. I am so proud of her and her dedication to it!

Season's come and season's go....

2010-07-13T10:06:00.002-04:00

Well my baby boy if officially done with preschool and I am officially not a mom of babies or preschoolers! I spent most of my life waiting for the day to come when I could have babies and be a mom.....although I will always be a mom....I never really thought about the day that they would be "big kids". But we have all been so very blessed by their preschool experiences. Rach at Happy Apple in GA and Brady at Tollgate here in Groton. Wonderful teachers with hearts for Jesus, assisting us in helping our children learn to walk with Him. I always try to remember, although I do not always keep it together, that each moment with my children is a gift and a moment to try to lead them closer to the Lord. Is that always easy when everyone is grumpy or I've been up half the night with sickness or accidents in the bed or whatever.....NO! But I can see now that time is fleeing away and I pray that each and every day I can see what is really important. May God be with Rachel and Brady as we all enter a brand new season......we'll see just what God has in store for me too!

A couple more pics....

2010-07-13T10:00:00.003-04:00

Me and Paw Paw

Gillette Castle

Devil's Hopyard

PawPaw comes to town...

2010-07-13T09:50:00.003-04:00

PawPaw came to visit in May. Rachel had a special Grandparent's day at school and he was able to come for that. It was a very nice day. While he was here, we had some very gorgeous weather. We went to Devil's hopyard and Gillette castle (got some great pics there too) and then we spent one day going to Long Island to visit Theodore Roosevelt's home. It was really neat to see and it was just a beautiful area. We were able to walk to the water too. The pictures are of his home and then of JB, Dad, Rach and Brady just following directions....we just couldn't figure out why they had to place their butts there, but they obeyed!

Harkness Memorial Park

2010-04-26T19:22:00.004-04:00

We went with Gramma to Harkness while she was here. It was a nice outing. We got to walk and the kids rode their bikes and Gracie got to be outside...her favorite place! We had a great visit with Gramma that week...it just always goes by way too fast. Happy days!

Easter 2010

2010-04-26T19:08:00.004-04:00

Easter eggs, Easter egg hunt, dinner with family and friends, Gramma's wonderful company, and just a wonderful day!!!! But most of all, My savior who died for me and Rose again so that I may live!!! Thank you Jesus, Thank you Father for giving your son, Thank you for my family and loved ones....

She's ONLY nine!!!!

2010-04-26T18:58:00.002-04:00

My mom wrote me a poem when I was nine years old, it hangs on my wall even now. It ends with the phrase "For after all, she is "only" nine." That was always the joke with my mom because I was the baby and she was always making excuses of why I didn't have to do certain things (which worked nicely for me) and at that time....I was only 9! Well, now my baby is "only" 9 and I can't even believe it. Now she will probably have a different story because she is the oldest and she has always been VERY capable of many things, so she probably wishes I would let her out of doing things because of her age:) I am so proud of her....she will always be MY baby!!!

Afewerk (A.J.)

2010-04-26T18:38:00.004-04:00

He's finally here! Precious and beautiful! I know this has been an emotionally exhausting, joyful, scary, and absolutely amazing experience for Jody and Shannon. It has been a great priviledge to have been through 2 adoptions now. Renee and Brandon had the same experience just a few years ago when they adopted Reese. Now, I am only the Auntie, so ofcourse I haven't experienced it to the fullest like they have, but as close as our family is, it is such a big deal to all of us. To experience the love that one can have for someone so different, so far away, someone we don't even know yet is so amazing. I am so proud of each and every one of my neices and nephews. I love the relationship that I have with each one of them and I love what my children learn from each one of them. We live so far away, but the love between all of them is so precious...I look forward to one day living close enough to be a part of some of the every day events in their lives....but until then......there's phones and computers and planes and trains and automobiles!!!!!!

Heroes in love...

2010-04-26T18:28:00.002-04:00

Brady is all into the Sonic characters from the Wii. He is always playing, pretending to be them and ofcourse telling me what to say. I wish I could remember all of the cute things he says while playing, but this one was great. Brady was being Sonic and I was Sonic's mom. He ofcourse told me what to say beforehand and this is how our "play" went. SONIC-"Mom, is it ok if I'm a superhero and if I am in love" MOM-"no, I don't think you are old enough" SONIC-yes I am mom, Amy is so cute and she wants to be in love with a superhero because she has a big hammer" MOM- "ok, I guess you can be a superhero and be in love" Brady (Sonic) proceeded to "call" Amy and tell her but her dad answered so he said "I was wondering if I could be in love with your daughter, I'm a superhero" He pretended to listen to her dad and he said it was ok too. I absolutely LOVE the imagination of that boy!!!!! :) And it was so nice of him to ask permission from her father......he's well on his way!

What the kids are up to....

2010-03-11T10:35:00.002-05:00

Rachel is now 9 years old...CRAZY! She is still taking Dance lessons and loving every minute of it. She's in her first year of Tap and her 3rd year of ballet. She memorizes bible verses like a champ for AWANA and for school. She's becoming so capable of doing so many things. She really helps around the house with cooking and cleaning and taking care of Gracie. She is still very very organized with her plans (just like her Mama). Her dream is to be a dance teacher and to do something involving journals....she Loves journals!!! We have been able to have some very serious conversations lately, some real heart to hearts. She is a very responsible, caring girl. It is a treasure to be her mom.

Brady is 5 1/2. Not my baby anymore. He's so crazy excited about Kindergarten. We waited another year because in CT he could have started at 4 yrs old. I am so thankful that we did. He loves his preschool that he's been in for 2 years and between that and what we work on at home, he's finally starting to understand so much. He's getting his letters and numbers down and just has a curiosity about learning that he didn't have last fall. He still keeps all his toys in perfect order and needs to know where all things are at all times. He LOVES having a clean room and he can entertain himself for hours. Imagination to the sky. I will miss his little squeaky play voice when he is older. He is a very compassionate person. It is a treasure to be his mom.

As we transition into each phase of childhood it is always sad to say goodbye to the last, but always amazing to be a part of the new. I learn so much from them and from having to look further into my own heart so that I can be a better mom, leading them down a path that will hopefully, someday, lead them to their own path of walking side by side with the Lord, and even somedays just to be carried by Him. Thank You Lord, for these treasures of Yours that you've loaned to me for a time.

Counting still

2010-03-11T10:25:00.003-05:00

I named my blog "Count it all joy" because I love that verse in the Bible. I want to be able to do just that in all circumstances in my life. The amazing part is that a few weeks ago our Sunday School class started a new book called "Finding God's path through your trials" by Elizabeth George. And what verse is the entire book and study guide based upon? James 1:2, Therefore, Brethren, Count it all joy when encountered with various trials. It has been so amazing to work through this and really discover what it really means to be able to do that. It is a choice and it comes with the many promises of God.

Cactus covered marshmellow....

2010-01-05T13:54:00.002-05:00

We watched the movie called Second Chances one night. It was a great movie for the family, by the way. And I learned a great term for JB from that movie. It had me laughing so hard. Maybe that term has been around, but I've never heard it before. I have decided that is exactly what he is.....a cactus covered marshmellow!!! Tough on the outside, appearing to most as a cactus. But on the inside, at certain times....he can also be so marshmellowy~

Perceptions.....

2010-01-05T13:41:00.003-05:00

How often doI misunderstand someone. How often do I think something that is not really right. How often do I judge before I even know anything. Well, I definitely learned a lesson on this. While at T.J. Max with JB's mom and the kids, I had gone off by myself. As I returned to the area where Gramma and the kids were, I see and hear a lady talking to Brady. She is saying "Do you know what happens to 5 year olds in my Kindergarten class that act like that? They go into time out! Do you want to be in Time out?" And his answer was "No". I quickly got the scoop from Gramma and Rach. She apparently said "excuse me" to Brady and he said back "oh, excuse you".....meaning You're excused. She took it to be that he was being a smarty pants (of which if you know Brady, he is no where close to that kind of thing yet) and then she proceeded to say what she said. So, seeing where this could have easily been misunderstood, I went to the next aisle where she was and said "Ma'am, that was my little boy. I'm sorry about that, he didn't mean that the way....." and she cut me right off and said "I don't need your excuses, he's just a smartelic (sp?) kid that needs to be taken home and taught some manners. He would not be allowed to act that way in my Kindergarten class" and she walked off. I was left shaking and feeling like I would cry at any moment. I don't think I've ever been treated that way by anyone. But, besides the point of who was right or wrong, who did good or bad, It taught me a lesson that sometimes what I perceive to be the case...may not be. And to try to take the time to understand other people. I really do just want to love other people, even above my pride....which is SOOOO hard!!!!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!

2010-01-05T13:22:00.002-05:00

We had a wonderful holiday season. JB was finally home and he had some time to get some R & R. JB's family(they're mine too) came for Christmas. It was a lot of fun being at our home for Christmas and just letting the kids open their stuff and do whatever they wanted with it. Usually I am a freak after christmas because I know that I have to keep up with everything and somehow get it all back home with us. And it was special for all of JB's side to be together for Christmas. I did however miss the rest of our family back home and hope that next year we will be able to make it home for Christmas.

It snowed some more on New Year's Eve...so pretty! We just hung out together and had some fun. Rachel, our very talented manager, had all of the things that we could do written on a list. We played a game, watched a movie, read some books, and had a Wii tournament. It was fun. The kids were both asleep at 11:00, but we woke Rach up at Midnight. She said happy new year and then went back to sleep. It was the first time in a while that I rang the new year in with my hubby so that was great! I pray that in 2010 I will bring glory to God more than I ever have before! We will hopefully soon see what's in store for us this year. Moving or Not???

I have never......in all my life....seen such a thing. Have You?

2009-12-20T15:43:00.000-05:00

SNOW!!!!

2009-12-20T15:26:00.003-05:00

I love snow! I really do! I get so excited when the forecast is calling for it. I know it can be so dangerous and so inconvenient for so many people and sometimes even for me, but I just love it. I feel like a big kid everytime I hear it might snow. This time was a pretty good one for us up here. I really don't know the accumulation total because it is different all over. The winds were so big that we just have snow drifts everywhere. At one place it's about 12 inches and at another place it's up to my thigh. I do know that it's taller than Gracie. She loves it too! We've had a fun day!!!

Talk about emotional~

2009-12-19T20:06:00.003-05:00

The big day finally arrived! November 21st. We had dropped him off on May 1st, said our tearful goodbyes and drove away. I cried a few tears and then took a deep breath and put a bandaid on my heart and asked God to hold it there until he comes home. We had much to do to keep us busy and a few ports here and there to be able to hear his voice. We got into our daily routines and tried not to really even think about counting down yet. Knowing that he was in dangerous territory for a while made it hard to not think of the worst, to not think of all the "what ifs"...But soon we were down to 1 month....so exciting...until we were told they were extended....maybe....not sure how long. HARD! Then it was 6 weeks extended and I just cried a little and then got tough again and moved on. But then Cindy told me the extension was to be shorter than expected and we rejoiced.....and started counting down DAYS! In the last week, I couldn't sleep or think of anything else. I daydreamed of his return and what things would be like. I was so very anxious and excited. I truly missed him like I've never missed him before. We'd done a zillion of 2-3 monthers on a trident, but just never anything quite like this. The day came and we tried to pass the hours. I tried to look so nice for him.........and finally it was time to go. We went down to the pier and the excitement filled the air. The navy band was playing good ol patriotic music and the other wives and family members were everywhere all filled with excitement. And then...........we saw the boat. My friend Cindy and I gave each other a hug and just said "we made it" and the tears started and I couldn't stop them. The relief, the excitement, the joy, the thankfulness and the pride that wells up when that sub comes toward the pier and we know that our men are on that and where they have been and what they have been doing for our country.......it is just inexpressable. They opened the gates and let us on the main pier and we watch and wait for our man to come off (and they all look the same ofcourse). But I knew when I saw him and Cindy just said "Go, Go"! He was in his dress uniform and looked so very handsome. I have never seen him come off in his dress blues before so that was really awesome. The kids ran to him and he knelt and they both hugged his neck and he hugged them like I have never seen before. I then got my hug and I never wanted to let go. He was home, He was home , He was home!!! May I never, ever forget how it felt to be without him, may I never forget what he and all of the others are doing for our country and may I never take for granted my freedom and my safety because there are men and women fighting and putting themselves in danger every single day to make sure that I have just that. May God truly bless America and may America truly learn to love our Amazing God!!!!!

"17th"

2009-12-19T19:44:00.003-05:00

The 17th of November, the day I was born. The sound of that day always bring such warm memories and fun times. Each year as a child, I was always made to feel as special as anyone could feel on that day. Special treatment from Mom and Dad, the birthday cake (homemade ofcourse) of my choice, and always fun! A few times I had parties with friends which was fun, but many years, my birthday was just celebrated at home with my family and those are some of the best memories I have. Ofcourse my Mom is the master of getting special presents and wrapping them as that of an artist. I ALWAYS got happy birthday sung to me and my picture taken as I blew out the candles......sometimes we had to do a redo because the first one didn't take.....and I still do that to this day to my kids:) And after I married and have moved from state to state I still have been able to have special birthdays. Some I have been home for, some have been spent with family visiting, some with my husband, some with my kids and some with my husband and my kids. And some have been spent with very special friends made along the way that truly understand the navy life and care enough to make my day special. This year my friend Dee (of which we need a real picture taken of us together with me NOT in a spongebob suit) made me dinner and had me and the kids over. Rach made my cake, Gramma sent what she needed, and so we ate and laughed and had a great time. And my other friend Cindy took me for a girls morning as well the day before.....Great friends, special memories. And my family back home and my friends abroad all still remember me on that day with a card, a gift or a special phone call.......Those days are when I realize all of the people that God has put in my life that I so often take for granted. All of them thinking of me on that same day.....Should I ever be so blessed?

The Latest....

2009-10-31T08:55:00.006-04:00

Just a few things that have been going on around here lately....

MawMaw, PawPaw, and Hudson came for a visit in September. I got to experience just how funny Hudson really is...and he doesn't really mean to be! He's a joy to have around! And oh so patient with Brady. Then Cindy and I took the kids to the pumpkin patch...that was fun! Thank goodness for good friends! Then Gramma, Grandpa, and Daniel came for fall break. They were here for Brady's birthday party at Chuck e Cheese. That was so much fun too. We didn't do much else that week, but always nice to have them around. Daniel also did good with Brady, but being 13, I think Brady got on his nerves a little bit more. I'm sure he would mine too if I was still 13!!! Time is going by, little by little, day by day. We found out that Daddy is extended another month. 7 months, 5 days.......hopefully it won't go any longer, we are ready to have him home! But until then, we will just fill our days with friends, fun and thankfulness!

"Mommy, I can't wait to see Jesus"

2009-09-15T21:58:00.002-04:00

I have now had the privilege of having such a sweet talk with both of my children at the age of 4. I can remember being on our couch in GA when Rach was 4 and her asking so many questions about Jesus and then just holding her as she cried because she wanted to see him so badly. Brady now is so curious and has been asking questions. And as we passed up bedtime tonight because we were still talking, my heart smiled. He too wanted to know all of the ins and outs. He too sat and cried in my arms because he wants to see Jesus, but also because he would miss me if he dies. It is amazing to be able to tell your children, with no hesitation, that once they are in heaven, they will not want anything else. Ofcourse Brady thinks it will be nice if there's some toys there but not cars because he doesn't want to get ran over:) Trying to explain it all in a way that they understand and in a way that's not scary, but yet in a way that is truthful is a hard job. I am thankful that my children want to see Jesus....I do too. And I am thankful for my amazing God who loves me so much. And I am thankful for Jesus!

Pumatoes

2009-09-14T12:30:00.002-04:00

When Brady says the word Pumatoes it could mean a tomato, it could mean a potato, or it could mean a tornado. He just asked me "Mom are Pumatoes real?" So I said you mean the red ones or the brown ones? He said "No, I mean the ones that twirl in the air." I said, "yes they are real." He said " If you were ever pumping gas and I was in the car and we had a pumato and you got blowed away, I would be really lonely." I guess he would!

Summer 2009

2009-08-28T10:45:00.010-04:00

What we have done, June,July, and August........

~Gramma visits

~Six flags N.E. with Gramma

~To Paducah

~Rach Stitches

~Many meals with friends and family(some in, some out)

~Mam-maw's house

~Fireworks

~Brown County

~Patti's with Kevin and Ellen

~MM and PP's 42nd Anniversary

~VBS

~Baby shower

~PP had a heart attack

~Brady Strep throat

~Venture River

~Kirchoff's bakery

~William's Wedding

~Church

~Swimming at Janice's

~Birthdays

~Paducah's got Talent (Big Finale)

~Lot's of time with Cousin

~Weinie and Marshmellow Roast in the rain, Thanks everybody

~Grandpa's car accident

~Zoo with Uncle Kevin

~Came home

~Krischon and boys visited

~Got a dog

~Lots of swimming

~Time with Friends

~Waiting for school to start:(

~Oh and also while we were home, Nat and Nae had a fall, Reese had a close call at the pool.

~After we left, MM and Nat had a four wheeler accident, and MM had some bad luck for a few days.

~But in the end everyone was OK. I feel very blessed to have family and friends such that I do. To have a husband to wait for.....and children to love. To be able to do all that we have done....it has been a great summer.

ONE......

2009-08-28T10:36:00.002-04:00

One deployment, one summer, one trip, one day, one moment............oh what can happen. One blessing, one illness, one accident, one scare, one tragedy, one death.......So much can happen in such a short amount of time. I am thankful that I have One God, One Spirit, One Savior, One King of kings, One Lord of all. So much can happen in just ONE.....so much is treasured in just ONE......

Waiting for words....

2009-08-18T05:41:00.002-04:00

I haven't posted in several weeks, and yet so much has gone on. I am still thinking and processing and trying to put all this time into words....let me say, I am blessed............

Thankful

2009-06-26T15:57:00.002-04:00

Rach had to go to the ER yesterday here in Paducah. We just got here for our long visit and she fell on Mom and Dad's brick steps and sliced her knee. It was a big deal to her....it would have been to me to...I've never had that happen. But she was very brave and did very well. I got to thinking how thankful I am for hospitals and medical procedures and medicine and insurance! Just a year ago we were at Yale Children's Hospital with Brady's low blood platelets...scary, yet also "fixable"......I am thankful for "fixed" children and somewhere to take them to get "fixed"..... She wanted her Daddy.....but Me, MawMaw, Gramma, Nae Nae and a few others made do......it was pretty funny how so many of us ended up there for a cut knee.......Only in our family.....I Love my family!!!!

Full of emotion

2009-06-23T10:29:00.003-04:00

I just feel all sorts of emotions right now. Excited, sad, fearful, anxious, Thankful, etc..... A trip home, a hubby in the war zone, saying goodbye to friends that are being stationed elsewhere, a possiblity of a new adopted nephew in the family, and many many other blessings in my life! And even getting a new puppy soon..........I think I'm crazy!

Missing our Daddy

2009-06-15T17:45:00.002-04:00

I guess I just got so used to 3 month patrols, not 6 month deployments. At this point we would be over halfway of a patrol.......but we're not that close for this one. I continue to be blessed with wonderful family and friends in my life and I know that time is going to continue to tick tock away.....but some days, it's just hard. I miss him. We miss him. Brady now talks about him a lot, about the little things that he does with Daddy. They both deal with it, just like I do, we do fine.....but we miss him.

How could I ask for more?

2009-06-05T11:39:00.002-04:00

A roof that is over my head;
a warm and cozy bed.

A husband who loves me so;
and to war, he's willing to go.

Two children so bright and happy;
they are such a blessing to me.

A family so willing to roam;
to wherever we call "home."

Friends I've met along the way;
each unique in their own way.

Laughter and joy that fill my heart;
God's presence in each new day I start.

My life is full, I stand in awe;
for I do not need anything at all.

Nothing, that is, on earth you see;
I have my Savior and He has me.

How could I ask for more?

Hearing from Hubby

2009-05-15T11:02:00.002-04:00

Well, it's been two weeks of the six months! Making progress!!! We got to talk with him a couple of times this week. He was in Plymouth, England for a couple of days. It was nice to hear his voice. I used to think we should have these lengthy, deep, conversations anytime we got to talk during a patrol, but then I realized that's not us!!! We just want to know that we are both ok, that we miss each other so much and that we love each other. There's definitely a bittersweetness about those phone calls from so far away. I love to hear from him, but it makes me miss him all the more and realize just how far he is.

Lord, I pray that you will protect him and give him wisdom in his job. I pray that he will find rest when he needs it and most of all, that You would draw him closer to you during this time. Thank you for my husband......

911

2009-05-15T10:56:00.002-04:00

I am hoping that Brady doesn't have to save me from an emergency any time soon! Yesterday he and I read a book about firefighters and we talked about 911 and stuff. So we acted it out. I told him to go be at the firestation and I would be at home and call 911. So I called 911, his "alarm" went off, he slid down the pole, put on his firesuit and drove right over. He got there and I said"help my house is on fire". He hooked up his hose and then said " get out". I said, "I can't get out, my legs don't work, I need help" So then he said "Oh, I've got a present for you in the truck...I'll be right back" I pleaded with him to save me first and finally he did, but it took a while, but I think my house burned down while he got my present.......

Selfishness

2009-05-15T10:42:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, twice, my attention was brought so abruptly to the fact that so many adults are just as guilty as children of having no manners at all!!! I watched an aid at the school practically yelling at a child. Then we had Arts night last night, which consists of the choir, band, strings, and then some dancing. We all know that each person there is only intersted in their own children, but what happened to being respectful and to trying to show all of the children, especially those that don't have any support, that we care about them and that they are worthy of listening to. I was just disgusted as the entire audience proceeded to talk and be loud while children were up there trying their hardest to play instruments. Did it sound perfect? Was it the kind of music we would choose to be entertained with ? NO, because they are little and it sounded pretty rough, but nevertheless, they were trying and some of them were really good. And so everyone visited, talked, and walked around until the dancers performed, then it got quiet and EVERYONE sat and was quiet. Rachel performed, with lots of other students, the hoe down, throw down and it was really really cute! But then, after the dancing, probably 80% of the people just left and so the band kids that still needed to perform, had only a few people left to watch them......sad, sad, sad. I know that a handful of people have good reason to leave, but when that many leave, what does that say to our children? I think that is a great example of just how selfish we are in this world!!!

Sweet, Sweet laughter

2009-05-04T14:27:00.002-04:00

I just read a friends blog about her 21 yr old daughter leaving home and where did the time go? Rachel is 8 and Brady is 4 and I feel that way. As we said goodbye to Daddy on Friday...all I want is for time to go fast, but as we spent the weekend doing some extraordinary fun things, like carnivals and ballgames and shopping....all I want is to stop time. We were shopping yesterday and I let them play in the play place for a bit and as they played Rachel was trying to "hide" from Brady and so she was crawling around on her hands and knees, darting in and out of things and giggling to no end. She had me laughing so hard.......and I was sitting alone, so I'm sure I looked pretty funny. But in their sweet laughter, their innocence, their unending hugs and kisses, their pure happiness, I find so much joy. And just as my friend thanked the Lord for the years spent teaching, nurturing, loving and growing with her daughter, I too am thankful for the years we've had.....and wanting to cherish every moment to come.

Sums it all up............

2009-04-29T14:18:00.001-04:00

A Navy Wife's Prayer

How often we've stood on dark flight lines and piers..."I love you", "I'll miss you" whispered through tears.During long separations, in peace time, at war...my nights filled with dreams of this man I adore.With only my memories to hold close at night...I live for the day God returns my sunlight.Yes, life goes on when your loved one's at sea...but the ache never leaves, the fear stays with me.Dear Lord, I need Your guidance, Your love...help me be brave, keep Your watch from above.Hold my dear one so safe in Your heart and Your hand...bring him home to his family...this hero...my man.In us Lord, I pray he'll be filled with such pride...of how we carried on without him by our side.Please, help time fly quickly and soon I will hold...the hand of the man whose eyes chase the cold.Whose voice brings delight, whose touch eases pain.How will I ever say "Farewell" again?With Your help dear God, I'll try to stay strong...and pray that his time here at home will be long.Still, "I know that the Navy will need him", I sigh...but we'll face it together, Dear Lord, you and I.

-Sue Combs

Go Redsox?????

2009-04-29T13:29:00.002-04:00

Well, I guess I am now a Boston Redsox fan? I really have never been a sports fan of any sort. I like to go to a real game occasionally and I like to watch people that I know play sports and I always like to watch the superbowl, but I've just never been a die hard fan of any particular teams..........just what my mom and dad and my hubby like I guess. Well, Rach has become a Redsox fan since moving to CT. Apparently here you are either redsox or yankees. JB likes the redsox too I guess, and so they all wanted Boston Redsox baseball caps and they said I needed one too..........so here we all are in our hats...............GO BOSTON!!!! (or not...I don't really care:) I hear that the Redsox have been on a winning streak lately and beat the yankees four straight games...........so at least I'm a "fan" of a winning team!!!!

Spring Break 2009

2009-04-17T15:58:00.002-04:00

The kids and I have just had an amazing week. This is the first time in a while that I haven't been traveling on a break. I love to travel, especially back home, because I love to see my family. But we stayed back this time because we have precious time to spend with Daddy before He leaves again. But he still had to work this week. We just really had a "staycation" as I've heard others say before. We took it easy each morning,had a couple of "dates" with friends, we've been to the movies, to the skating rink, to the park, bike riding, played card games, read books, and even went out for milkshakes!! And we spent time with Daddy in the evenings. It has really been a great week and the weather has been nice too. Maybe not as warm as some would like it, but warm enough for us to get out some. I really feel like I've had a vacation!

Drive-thru

2009-04-17T15:44:00.002-04:00

This hit me the other day while going through a drive-thru......I go to a drive-thru because I don't have time or I don't want to cook. I expect my order to be right and if it isn't the way I want it, then I'm frustrated. I want it to be speedy, speedy and if they take too long....well, then I'm even more frustrated....................I realized that I do that to my amazing God sometimes! I go to Him sometimes only when I've decided I can't do it myself. I put in my request (order) and really want it to come out my way......In a nice speedy, speedy fashion. And I know that is not the kind of God that I serve. He is always there for me, but His ways are bigger than my ways, and His thoughts are higher than my thoughts. He wants every part of my life....the everyday not much going on part of my life and the Oh my goodness how am I ever going to get through this part of my life. And I've learned, that without giving Him the first part......then I'm just expecting Him to be my drive-thru service.........and that has nothing to do with my heart or my God. That's why I have to choose everyday to spend time with Him and in His word. Help me Lord and Thank You for always being there!

Two thoughts.....

2009-04-13T14:49:00.003-04:00

1. There is definitely something in milk that makes my kids wet the bed (well Brady now)

2. I have been trying to get things done and get dressed all day....it's almost 3:00 and I'm just now heading to do that..........is that bad?

NYC

2009-04-13T14:44:00.002-04:00

Rachel and I got to go to New York City with her girlscout troop! We had an awesome day! We saw the empire state building, the NYC library, time square, rode a carousel, and saw the Barnum and Bailey circus at Madison Square Gardens! It was great! (I'm not in the picture)

Long lost hugs

2009-04-11T20:53:00.002-04:00

There is nothing quite like your husband walking in the house after being gone for a month without you knowing he is there! JB got a ride when he came home on Thursday and so it was a surprise when he opened the door!(good thing I was home, because he didn't have any keys on him)...I've learned to appreciate the time apart because it really really makes us appreciate one another. I have missed him so much this time and it was such a short run, but I think I am just living in anticipation of the deployment coming up. But I know that everyday that I wake up is one day closer to my long lost hug!!!! And I also know that My Heavenly Father is there every single moment....with both of us! We are blessed in this Navy life that we live~

Who's listening?

2009-04-02T12:30:00.002-04:00

Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Ephesians 4:29

Lord, I need you to help me to acheive this...........

10weird things about me on my 10th post~

2009-03-30T09:53:00.004-04:00

I always get a chuckle when others have done similar posts....just thought I would enlighten all who read......

1. I can't take a shower without having freshly brushed teeth
2. I can't stand for my bare feet to touch anything wet(except the shower), esp. public floors.
That's enough to make me pass out!!!
3. I always swish water around in my mouth when I'm done eating...I don't like dirty teeth.
4. I get very bothered when I run out of paper plates.
5. I have always wanted a personal chef..so I would eat healthier.
6. I think it would be great to experience life in the little house on the praire days.
7. I don't like to get off of the phone in a hurry...It makes me feel nervous.
8. Everything I do is on a list/schedule of some sort. I like my PLANS.
9. I am horrible at picking my favorite of anything...food, color, activity....I just like all kinds of things. (Not a good decision maker)
10. I get very excited when it's Friday....even though I don't work!

Manners or NO Manners...that is the question!

2009-03-29T17:42:00.003-04:00

I thought it so funny when I was working with Brady on his Cubbies bible verse for this week. He was supposed to memorize "Lord, teach us to pray." He would not say it without some manners:) He said it "Lord, PLEASE teach us how to pray." I laughed so hard...I was helping in cubbies today and that is exactly how he said it to the other teacher.....Gotta love it. And speaking of manners..........I guess that goes out the window with Gramma. Brady feels the need to ask her for anything and everything that he wants (ofcourse he usually gets it too). But the other day I told him that he really needs to stop asking Gramma for everything. I told him that it is rude to expect someone else to get something just because you ask and he said "Mommy, don't tell me to stop that because that will hurt Gramma's feelings if I don't ask her. She loves to buy me stuff." Ofcourse I have to agree with him there...she does love to buy stuff for them and she's going to anyway...so he's just learned to let her know ahead of time what he likes!!! But at least he's using those manners with God..........

Nothing Better.....

2009-03-29T17:37:00.002-04:00

Is there anything better than getting a "love note" from one of your babies??? This was taped to my mirror Saturday morning when I was getting ready!!! I love you too Rach!!!

Chicken noodle soup

2009-03-23T19:02:00.002-04:00

I made biscuits and gravy and bacon for "dinner" tonight. It was just me and the kiddos. We were eating and talking and Brady said "Mommy, I just want to tell you something...you make the best biscuits in the world" and then Rach said "and the best Fried chicken in the world." Then Brady said"and the best chicken noodle soup in the world" of which Rach said "Brady, Mommy doesn't cook that." I guess if it comes out of a can I can't take credit for it.....but Brady didn't know that:)

My Daddy would.....

2009-03-21T09:34:00.002-04:00

Boy to kids know how to get you sometimes! The other night I was getting ready for bed and Brady said "Mommy, will you make my bed?" (I'm not a real good regular bed maker)....Anyway, I said "Brady, you're getting ready to GO to bed, why do you need it made?" He says "because I want to see Thomas", I say"then go make it yourself!" He layed down on the floor with his blankie and says"if Daddy were here, He would make it." He was trying to really use that.........but what he has forgotten is that his Daddy would be the last person on earth to make his bed............and I know that!!! But it was worth a good pitiful try anyhow:)

One year from now....

2009-03-19T16:04:00.002-04:00

I often worry about silly things. I also tend to do things because I feel like other people think I should??? That can be good....that can be bad.... And I've been thinking a lot about the things that really make life worthwhile and what it is that I spend my time doing. There are always things to volunteer for (and there is definitely a time for that), there are always new things to buy, and then there are things that I focus on and worry about that in the end seem pointless. I want my life to matter....for those around me and for the Lord. I think I want to start asking myself this question.....will it matter one year from now???

New Babies!!!

2009-03-17T13:37:00.003-04:00

It's always exciting to hear that a baby will be born. The sweetness they behold, their complete dependence on those who love them, and the joy that they bring to our lives. My brother and sister-in-law are expecting their 5th child and I just can't be more excited! Our family has been so very blessed with the children that we have and to have another is so awesome. One thing I have learned is that Babies grow up and then they are still such a blessing!!! Lord, may we raise them to love You......

Sick Days:(

2009-03-16T13:27:00.002-04:00

Poor Rach! She started with a sore throat last night and then a fever in the night...she's home from school today! I remember when Mom used to say "I love it when you're sick, not because you're sick, but because you want to stay home and snuggle with me."(I never can remember if the quotes go inside the punctuation or outside...help Michelle) Anyway, I know what she means now because even though I hate for my kids to feel bad, I love to get to hold them and help them feel better! My Dad, on the other hand, just said "Better you than me."

We had to take Daddy early this morning to leave:( That doesn't help our sick day! But we'll see him again before he goes for the long one....I thank the GOOD Lord for providing a wonderful job for him and that he is willing to go "fight those pirates" because I'm sure not!!! Also, without the job he has there are Soooo very many friends that I would have never known...and I can't imagine!!! One of the reasons to Count it all JOY!

Submarines and a 4 year old...

2009-03-15T16:14:00.002-04:00

It has been most interesting since JB has been back on a Sub that is actually going out to sea. The questions that Brady asks, are so logical, but at the same time just so funny. His mind just cannot grasp it all. He has asked "Does Daddy get wet?", "Can he see sharks out of the window?", when I say there are no windows...."No windows? How does he see the sharks?" He has asked me "Is Daddy going to get eaten by sharks, or are they nice sharks where he goes?" He asks questions about where Daddy goes and what he does while he's gone and the only answer I know to give is that Daddy is protecting us from the bad guys. And then ofcourse he relates bad guys with Pirates and tells me "Daddy can fight the pirates with his sword...Does Daddy have a sword?" A lot for a four year old to take in.............just fight those Pirates Daddy!!!

I THINK I really want to do this!!!

2009-03-14T13:46:00.002-04:00

So here I go~
I have followed three people's blogs for the past several months. My sister-in-law Shannon, my sister Renee and my friend Michelle's. It's so nice to keep up with what's going on and to get a peep into their thoughts and hearts. I really enjoy writing and I thought this could be a place to share my heart.....for those interested now and for my children for years to come. I chose the name of my blog from James 1:2-4 that says "Consider (count in KJV)it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing". Another reason I'm choosing to start this now is that it will be a great way to keep up with life's events while JB is gone for the next several months. Something he can look back on and something that will show me just how good God will be to me through it all! My hearts prayer truly is, no matter the situation, to Count it all JOY!