Update on decorations & HUGE B-Day BLESSING!

First of all the tree was left on our door step around 5:30 (i think) I was at the store & Steve & 'Si were in the back room, when I walked through the front door they were both all giddy putting the pieces together. This is our first ever artificial tree!!! WHAT A BLESSING - thanks :~) Frank & Tracy!!

The tree was now standing & Steve sighed deeply & said, "I miss Kayla - she has never missed decorating the tree & this year we didn't get the tree in time for her to be here"

We found a small plastic grocery bag half filled with plastic ornaments. We decided to go to the grocery store to pick up some candy canes (thank God for our grocery card).

We came back from the store and found several (8)missed calls from Kayk's moms number. Our cordless phone was dead. We kept trying to charge it but Kayk kept calling in. We listened to one voice mail. She said, "Daddy it's Kayla. If you don't get these messages; I love you & Happy Birthday okay daddy - I love you & sorry if you don't get these messages. Please call me." We finally got the phone charged enough to and finally answer her incoming call. Steve told her the phone was dying & she said, "daddy please call my mom because I can go with you tomorrow" After about thirty minutes of letting the phone charge Steve called& talked to Kay's mom.

SHE IS GIVING US HER WEEKEND!!! SO THAT KAY CAN BE HOME FOR HER DADDY'S B-DAY LUNCH ON SUNDAY!!!!

Steve's 35th B-Day is Monday but I am making him Menudo & Posole for lunch on Sunday & inviting church friends & family over to help us celebrate his birthday!!!

Needles to say the tree decorating stopped - KAY WILL BE HERE TOMORROW & WE INTEND ON KEEPING THE TRADITION OF DECORATING TOGETHER!!!!

On a down note : Rhinestone died on Monday & Sherbet died this evening. I think after the new year if Steve finds a job & I get back to school we are gonna get her some fish & a small tank with a filter.She was a bit

disappointed to hear they were dead.

~ gotta share this *tear jerking moment*

So, like I mentioned this morning - Steve had brought in the tubs of decorations right? well before we went to get the candy canes. Steve was stringing the lights on the tree & I was putting up one of my nativity scene collection. Josiah was piddling around and he found the bin of stuff was now empty he was playing around with it for about 5 minutes, when suddenly he says, "I go to heaven with 'Lijah now" Steve & I both jerked our heads to look towards him and he looked at us with that look of ~ curiosity or mischief~ (not sure how to explain the look) any ways I asked him "what babe" (trying not to startle him by my expressions) Steve turned his head back to the tree as if he was not paying attention. Josiah looked at me & said, "I go to be with my 'Lijah now kay?!! I be soft okay- see? see? I can - I fit! - Jesus an pick me up from the 'special' crib - see like 'Lijah's"

*Uhhh* (tears streaming down my face now).

He was comparing the stupid rubber tub to Elijah's casket - the tub is small, so he must have remembered and since the lid was right there... ...

Ug=hhh - Steve & I were speechless but i managed to tell him, " oh that tub reminds you of 'Lijah's 'special crib' - oh yeah you are right it is sorta like that huh?" ( i was trying hard not to cry & figure out what to reply)

He said, "see momma I go now, I go be with 'Lijah" I said, " the tub is sorta like the 'special crib we put Lijah in , but we can not go with 'Lijah yet"

YES, he kept asking questions! Steve was on his knees in front of the tree (crying). I was ringing my hands together fighting back the tears - the LONG- inquisitive conversation ended after I finally said, " Mommy & Daddy don't know why- baby, but one day Jesus will show us okay! - now mommy needs to finish the thing... ( YEAH I SAID THE THING) what thing? I dont know! I was just trying to get this little man to stop talking so I could catch my breath - Oh I think that's when Steve piped out, "lets go buy candy canes for our tree"! (thanks baby- your the sweetest!)

Ughhh! that's all I gotta say about it all!! UGHHHHHH! & today baby Noah(on my side bar) was supposed to be born - I gotta go check on them. I hate to even wonder if Noah is still here or not!! UGGGgggghhh!

(crying & bit TRUSTING)

THE HOT GLUE GUN VERSION

Hello All!!!
I have just named myself the~ hot glue gun version~ of MARTHA STEWART!!!

So, yesterday was spent VERY-VERY BUSY making Tamales. We made & sold 20 dozen and boy were they YUMMY-SCRUMPCIOUS. By the end of the day I was BEYOND EXHAUSTED. PRAISE THE LORD we are getting pretty close to making the rent!!!!! GOD TRULY IS GRAND!!! HE WILL SUPPLY OUR EVERY NEED IN THAT WE ARE CONFIDENT- THOUGH WE CANNOT SEE HOW WE TRUST HIM!!!!

Okay-so we get back from bible study last night (yes! can you believe we went, even after a full day of tamale making) While we were at moms making tamales, Steve decided to put up moms Christmas Yard stuff. She gave us one of those huge inflatable snowmen!!!! ... ...

Yup! you guessed it Steve got started on putting up the snowman right as soon as we got home. Josiah was so tired, he had fallen asleep right as we drove up our drive way.

I said I was going to go to bed. I DIDN'T end up doing that but instead Steve brought in the bins of Christmas decorations and YES we began going through all our stuff. We have a beautiful collection of Nativity scenes that my mother in law has bought me every year since 2005! I have also added some myself!!! I love the nativity scene!!! Last year we did not get a tree. Yesterday Tracy & Frank told us they are giving us a tree!!! We have Nativity Scenes in those Christmas bins & those are our decorations. WE have some flowers & glass snowmen from my apartment before I got married. We have every thing EXCEPT tree decorations what a dud! We had gotten rid of all my glass ornaments from my apartment because we were afraid of 'Siah cutting himself.

We ended up getting side tracked with two old plastic Christmas table covers & some hearts & wreaths we use to take to the cemetery. We stayed up till 2:45 a.m making Christmas decorations for 'Lijah's place.

Woke up this morning to a MESSY living room full my beautiful collection of nativity scenes & some of my left over snowmen collection.

I found some curtains too! (mom gave them to me when we moved here) Then I remembered I need to weatherize the kids windows for the winter months. My idea was to put up a thicker curtain. I DO NOT have a sewing machine. MY MOM DOES & SHE SEWS very well too! but MARIE WAS NOT ABOUT TO BE PATIENT & WAIT, NO WAY!! So, I pulled out my hot glue gun and started rearranging blinds with a fleece throw behind each blind then putting up the blinds again & then covering the windows with the curtains again.

The Martha Stewart started coming out in me & that little glue gun was no match for me, I grabbed my scissors made a cute tie back for Kaykee's window then went into 'Si's room and boy, If mom had seen what I was doing she would have freaked!! l.o.l :) [i cut his curtains apart then glued them back together in a NEW way]
Then i went into my messy living room and started there... still not done but I just started laughing at myself when; the thought came to my mind, "MARIE YOU ARE THE GLUE GUN VERSION OF MARTHA STEWART (not even on a shoe string budget but on NO BUDGET!") it was so funny, I just had to blog it :)

I tired out my precious little 'Si! It was funny he was just following me from room to room carrying my bag of glue sticks saying "oooh that pretty momma! you make it fast" l.o.l
He just worried for a little minute when he saw me cutting his curtains apart he said, "uh oh momma daddy gonna get realy mad at you" too funny!!

I need to figure out how to make tree ornaments, ANY IDEAS?????

5 months today

~love u 4 ever~
~miss you like crazy~

Rhinestone & Sherbet

They are still alive :)
thanks for all the advice you are all so sweet. We called Wal-Mart and the fish food is just a couple of bucks so I think we might be able to go out & get some later on today!!!

STEVE & I ARE MISSING 'LIJAH... ... ... tomorrow is the 9th.

Phillipians 4:8
Whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are of good report, if there be any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy - meditate on these things.

- We will see him again
-He doesn't cry for us or miss us
- He is as Psalms 16:11 says enjoying pleasures forevermore
-IT IS GOOD TO THINK & KNOW WITH CERTAINTY these things!!!
-This is the day that the Lord has made WE WILL rejoice & be glad IN IT!!

NEED FAST ADVICE any one out there awake?!??!

I was on my way to bed & noticed Sherbet & Rhinestone are still in a cup sitting on the shelf on my hutch.
*AAAAaaaaaahhhh!!!!*
WE NEVER WENT TO BUY THEM FOOD!!!!
what can I feed them?
I poured them into a 6 inch tall by 4 inch wide clear glass vase I saved from 'Lijah's funeral
will they be okay? will they die by morning since we have no fish food?
They are probably STARVING poor fish!!!!

ANY IDEAS? ? ? ? PLEASE!!!!
I gotta take care of my Kaykee' Sherbet & Rhinestone!!!!
*Uuugh*
How long will they survive?
we can't afford a tank & the air bubble machine thing and Kayla's last fish from a carnival was already adopted by Tio Ben's big FISH tank but Kake is so set on KEEPING Sherbet & Rhinstone!!
Does any one know what I can feed them inthe mean time?!?!?! till Morning? I can ask Ben to lend us some fish food till we buy some but what about tonight? will they die?
Steve is asleep & I can't call any one right now!
IF ANY ONE IS AWAKE - ONLINE & has advise real quick PLEASE-PLEASE-PLEASE help me save Sherbet & Rhinestone!!
KAYLA WILL REALLY LOVE YA FOR IT!!!!

CAN'T SLEEP... ... just thinking

Random Thoughts:
~ Tired
~ Beth's married - she looks SO happy :) I'm happy 4 her!(them)
~ A little bit of a head ache
~ Saturday night was fun
~ 2 more days till '5 months'
On our way to the rehearsal on Friday night - in the car listening to the radio; ever since Steve & I met. Every Christmas we decorate our tree while playing the Christmas Song 'Rockin Around The Christmas Tree'. It seems like this year[probably his age] 'Si seems to be more aware of Christmas. but even when we just had Kayla - this was our Family Christmas Song (it's our family tradition) any ways we were driving to rehearsal and the song started playing on the radio. I got all into it. Steve too was singing along with the kids - WE were ALL laughing & giggling when I turned back to look at them in the back seat - My heart sank & tears just rolled down my face - My mind SHOUTED at me: " 'Lijah's car seat should be in the middle of the two kids! - 'Lijah is not hear - this should be 'Lijah's first Christmas"
Oh my heart hurts - Miss you sweet boy - Miss your soft warm face & your little baby grunts :)

~ My little heart charm from Morro Bay is tarnishing - its not real but it has my 'Lijah's name on it & I get to wear it close to my heart. I love touching it.
We need to decorate your little spot my love
Ugggh! I am so mad that the stupid Head Stone Place is closing - NOW when are we gonna get your Marker!!!!
I wanna put your little hand print on it. Daddy agrees that it will be special. We will have to find another company to make you your marker sweet baby of mine! I am so sorry - but daddy & I did order it but we just found out the company closed - I guess they lost their business. That's why every time we go your marker still isn't there.
Kakee thinks of you even when she is at her other house - I know because she told me that the other day she was with her mom and she saw a tiny tree at a Christmas tree lot and thought it would be perfect for your spot. 'Si thinks of you so much too - He tells me he wants to hold you like Moriah. (that hurts) I know you don't know what I am saying - but Mommy just needs to talk to you so bad. 'Siah & Kaykee love you & miss you. They talk about you to me & daddy all the time. Daddy misses you too!
I thought of you so much on Saturday. Kito-Ben was here for the after party with his friends. It made me glad whenever I was walking by them and Corina was holding your picture, your "smart boy" picture! I realized that he does talk about you & it made me feel good to know that he has not forgotten you. We will never forget you. One day I will get one of those necklaces with your "smart boy" pictures on it! I am so proud that YOU ARE OUR "smart boy". If we could sweet boy - Daddy & I would make HUGE pictures of your "smart boy" pictures, FOR EVERY ONE TO SEE!!!!!! We are so very proud that you are our baby! I am missing you right now so much. I am glad you do not see mine & daddy tears. I am crying for you right now. I am missing you with such a deep -deep hurting in my heart. Tia Cindy told me (at the wedding) that Moriah looked like you - Daddy thinks so too & Mema(grandma - my mom) & Ya-ya(beth) do too!!!
Oh ELIJAH, My 'LIJAH!!! Daddy put pretty Christmas lights in your memorial garden and we laughed when he said, " 'Lijah probably says - Daddy your lights are nothing compare to all the beauty & lights in heaven"
Kaykee & 'Si were singing 'come & go with me to my fathers house - A big big house where we can play foot ball...' and Kay realized for the very first time that this song is talking about heaven & NOT church. she thought it was talking about church til 'Siah said "Lijah live in a big yard to play foot -ball for me & daddy to get to heaven - wanna play Leelah(kayla)?" See sweet boy 'Siah thinks of you ALL the time.
Our precious baby boy. I wanted to go to the ocean again for your 6 month anniversary - We told Kito-Bens Corina about it and she said she would like to send up balloons from the golden gate bridge for your 6months. That is a sweet idea... ... Maybe if we can go we will do it. It makes me feel so nice whenever I realized that Kito-Bens Corina knew about you baby!! She is real cute & sweet. I think your bubba ('siah) has a little crush on her :) I know from the way she talks & acts like she would have been at your celebration service & she would have loved you too. She is really nice!
O my little baby boy - I think of 'Shua (Oceana's bubba) & baby Asher & Issac and Little Baby Jacob & Baby Eva every time I look at the pretty puffy clouds up in the sky. We blow bubbles for you & all of them too :)
'Shua is gonna have a new baby sister and Asher & Issac are gonna have new baby brother or sister real soon and baby Eva is gonna have a baby brother. Daddy & I thought you were gonna be a big brother too - on Thanks giving Day- cause Mommy was craving chili with banana nut bread (i was so scared) but it was just mommies monthly symptoms & Tia Berba's(Minn) yummy chili. Maybe some day you will be a big brother but right now mommy & daddy are gonna wait for a bit. We are glad we have time to wait - we were so scared on that day. Mommy & Daddy are trying to look for the perfect Christmas ornament for YOU in case we get a Christmas tree - well we will get you an ornament any ways, but we got an idea from some friends - their oldest little boy hung his 2 brothers monies(pacifiers) on their tree. Daddy & I think that would be real special. I miss you 'Lijah... ... ... ... Mommy & daddy are helping out with the children's Christmas Pageant at church - We will be thinking of you. Tia Cindy will be leaving to Texas for Christmas on Friday. She will come back the day after 'Siah's birthday. Daddy's birthday is next Monday. He will turn 35 years old. WE MISS YOU 'LIJAH ~ love you forever bubba! ~love -u-4ever ~that's what WE say.

MORE THOUGHTS:
~ need ornament ideas
~ mema made 'Lijah a beautiful Christmas wreath!
~ Gonna miss my Cinda at Christmas
~ Miss Bernice
~MISS MY 'LIJAH EVEN MORE!!!
~ I love to blog - it helps me feel better
~ Hope mom comes over tomorrow
~ I wish I knew every time my fam. has thought of 'Lijah
~ Hope Kays not too sick
~ This weekend is her mommys weekend :( gonna miss her!
~ What should I do for Steve's B-day?
~ The JOY of THE LORD IS MY STRENGTH & SONG
~ YOU ARE OUR ROCK & FORTRESS
~ My hubby is my BLESSING!!
~ It was so nice to see Pastor P & Roseanne and the kids at the party today
~ Pastor P was too cute how he rushed the girls out of the way so his little 4 yr old Leah could see my board of bows & he pulls out a $ 20.00 bill and said, "pick any ones you like princess" that was way cute!! for a daddy to do & her momma was like, " wait!!!" l.o.l :)
~ THE AFTER PARTY 'family dance' was FUN!!
~ I loved that Selina was teaching me how to dance
~ She knows her stuff
~ On that note i'm going o bed

weekend over :`)

Sorry - No pic's yet. I begged my two nephews to email them to me this afternoon but the lunch party was WAY BIG & lasted from noon time to evening service, so maybe tomorrow I will ask them again. Selina said she has some. I am gonna ask her see if she can send them to me tomorrow.

Church was good today! The food Ben(not my nephew Kito-Ben. his dad.) made MMMmmmmmm!
We had yummy tacos de carne asada (not wanting to make everyone drool) but
O.M. G - those things were exquisite!!! scrumptious!!! Ben makes them in his DISCO( an outdoor Mexican version of a Wok type fryer) it runs like a gas BBQ grill. Same type of propane tank. The chili salsa that Minn made oooooh my mouth is watering!!!

Ben & Minn live out in the country on a big property in the middle of orchards & vineyards. They have a back yard & a back-back yard. All the kids were playing in the back-back yard while all the men were outside with Ben as he was making the meat for the tacos. I was inside with all the ladies & Kito-Ben & his friends, when suddenly Steve walked in carrying Josiah['Si was crying] and Kake was right behind them and she too was crying - Steve was as white as a ghost and Kayla was crying so bad along with 'Si. We finally found out what happened - they were looking for one of the puppies that had wandered out under one of the trailers. The kids were playing on it and Josiah some how fell off the trailer and his hand got caught under the bar or trailer hitch. HE IS PERFECTLY FINE!!! Praise The Lord!!! He was just really scared. My nephew Roque showed Steve exactly what happened. We washed up his muddied hands and saw that he was fine and would not need to take him to the hospital. Kakee was still crying and very scared - Josiah kept trying to console her, telling her - "I okay sister - I okay! No fry(he can't pronounce his C's) NO FRY sister - I okay".

Kayla later explained to me that she thought that since he fell backwards landing on his head she thought ,"his brain would fall out like 'Lijah's did" Oh it just broke my heart... ... ... (no wonder my sweet girl was crying so badly) Steve & I hugged her and assured her that 'Si was okay and that her scary feelings were normal - She went out to play the rest of the afternoon :) So- did 'Siah.

Moriah slept very well at her 1st "slumber party"!! She must have been tired from all the days activities cause she slept all night long - but woke up SUPER-SUPER hungry at 5:30 a.m

Kake is back home tonight. She was feeling sick - a little bit (probably a bug) Please pray for her and her family not to get sick (the last thing any one needs right now is to catch a flu bug).

Oh I can't wait to get my hands on those wedding pictures!!! Oops I almost forgot Kake named her fish - Sherbet & RHINESTONE, not gem - she laughed at me when I asked if it was gem!!!

Such a long BEAUTIFUL DAY!

1st - Hi Sheena! thanks for your comment. I don't have any pictures right now but I will try to have my nephews send some to my email by tomorrow, okay!

Such a long-long-long day... It was good though!
So, I have to be honest and admit, I hit the snooze button and fell fast asleep til 7:45 a.m when 'Si[who NEVER sleeps past 7:00] walked into our room.

I guess last night Steve & I were so wound up we had a hard time falling asleep. We were tired but just couldn't fall asleep and about 1:00 a.m I heard , "mommy" it was Kay telling me she had a sore throat and a dry stuffy nose. We put some vicks baby menthol in her nostrils and tucked her back in and then, I guess she was wide awake because from then on for about the next 30 minutes the three of us were giggling, talking and carrying on about silly stuff. At 3:00 a.m I heard another, "mommy" it was 'Si. Steve got up and found monie & tucked him back in. I was wide awake, so I decided I might as well take advantage of the time and jumped in the shower. Needless to say, by the time i got out and back into bed. I was out cold whenever the alarm came on at 5:00, so I slept in (accidentally)

I felt horrible. I was supposed to be at moms to help Beth get dressed at 8:00!!! I woke up at 7:45 ( I know, I know how awful of me) NO WE DID NOT MAKE IT ON TIME! no - not even to the wedding!!!
We had the groom with us and he arrived at the church at 10:01 and Beth got there at 10:35.

The wedding was just precious. I carried Moriah in. Cindy & Daniel sang, 'From This Moment' by Shania Somthing... ... oh my goodness - we were all balling (I don't think there was a dry eye in the house). Cindy had to wipe my tears cause I was holding Moriah - She was part of the wedding party (too cute - can't wait to get pic's to post)!!

Wedding was over at 11:30. Reception was very nice. quaint. Simple but lovely. Served finger foods & cake. Cleaned up & came home @ 12:45 rested for about 1 hour and then packed up the bows. We were all a little on the grumpy(tired-grumpy) side for about 20 minutes, while we packed up & drove. The kids were tired & no my little 'Si did NOT get a nap - poor guy.

As soon as we got there the Christmas spirit hit us & we were okay except that IT WAS COLD!!! cold- cold- cold!
It was so cold that only half the regular crowd showed up out there & some street vendors left early because of the cold.

We still haven't really counted how much we sold but I know it wasn't that much - At 5:00 mom packed up & left, We stayed for about 20 minutes more. We were trying to brave the cold & wait to see the actual tree lighting ceremony but it was too cold so we packed up & got ready to go.

Fowler is such a small close knit community and lots of people know us from all the years I lived in Fowler plus all the parents & children who know me from when I worked at the school district. Kayla is known there too - It's like our home town :)

Our booth was right next to my x-neighbor. She said a cheery, "hi Kayla" & Kayla didn't remember her. Kristen had to remind her- she was mommy's neighbor!

We were just about ready to leave when one of the little girls came up to Kayla & offered her two gold fish. *aye!!*
So of course being the little pet lover she is, Kayla squealed with excitement as Samantha's mom asked Steve if she could have them. Seeing Kayla's expression we said okay(reluctantly). None the less we now have two new additions to the Douglas family. She named them, Sherbet & Turquoise, Gem, Onyx, or something like that.

Now we were really getting ready to leave - Steve was actually loading stuff when Kristen comes to her booth with two toddler size bicycles (raffle prizes) a pink one and a blue one. She has a niece but no nephew. YUP! you guessed it!!! She gave it to 'Si !!!! WOW what a BIG day for the kids! Free pictures with Santa ('Sia had to be bribed by Nino Jonathan) & Kayla took three pic's with Santa!!! The fish & the bike - Both kids had a smile that lit up brighter than the tree ceremony!!

We rushed home & cleaned up our messy living room & dining room. Jonathan & Olivia were the first to get here for the 'after party', Then Beth's friend Becca, then finally Beth & Tony arrived with mom & 'Riah. The pizzas arrived - more guests arrived. The music started at about 6:45 p.m and we mingled a little -for about an hour and then the bride and groom had their first dance. It was beautiful. After that it was on - we had our humble but extremely fun family dance. We had all the girls dance first and then the kids joined in and then it the guys started acting silly & joined in. Then Steve took me into the center of our living room and we danced and laughed so hard when he dipped me & every one clapped![Cindy got really good pictures - I will ask her to send them to my email so I can post some]it has been a while since Steve & I danced & had such a wonderfully FUN evening like that (*sigh* BIG- SMILE*) . He and Kayla had a father-daughter dance and she got teary, my precious girl - it was just so precious to see her in her daddy arms all teary. 'Siah was sweet on one of the 19 year old girls (*Aye*) he danced with his nina Cindy - Cindy danced with Kayla & Kayla pulled me out a couple of times to "teach"me how to dance, She said, "come here mom - look- just follow my lead" I am not a dancer but her & Selina were sure having a blast teaching me or most likely laughing at me!! It was so much fun!!! Our house finally started to clear out at about 10:oo and Mom & Moriah are spending the night so Kayla & Steve got their fill of Moriah without 'Si hovering over them.

Mom & 'Ri are sleeping over in Kayla's room (Mr. & Mrs. Dews are celebrating their marriage tonight - no baby!!! & momma is having baby with drawls). Kay is "camping out with 'Si. Moriah fell asleep at 11:00. Kay fell asleep at 11:30 and 'Si fell asleep at 10:50 ( he was so tired).

Oh and we just remembered we have Kito-Ben's 20th birthday celebration after church tomorrow.

I am T.I.R.E.D!!!

Cherishing the moments

I am a very strong believer in cherishing moments. I was thinking about how time just goes so very fast. Kayla got home today and we dashed out the door to go pay the rent and pick up some stuff at the store real quick. Real quick took forever and it was dark by the time we got home.

We got back and changed for the reahersal and out the door again... We practiced walking in, standing, walking out and did this over and over til it was just right. Josiah is not very interested in this ring bearer business.
Practice started at 6:00 and we left at 9:30. We set up , decorated, ate and then our family had to leave. We came home and without any discussion to be had between us & the kids - "camp douglas" was not on the itinarary for this Friday night. THe kids are so involved with all we are doing they didn't seem to mind.

We all walked in the front door and Kayla went straight for the shower. I changed 'Si into his jammies, Steve did some packing and arranging of our sale stuff.

Everything seemed to be functioning just fine. 'Si was looking for his pillow to lie down, Kake is showering, Steve's packing and it hit me... ... ... "CHERISH THE MOMENTS" I knew I had lots to do. I am or should I say we are all so tired. Just then Kake comes out of her shower and I think "cherish the moments-this here and now moment".

I grab a blanket throw it down on the carpet and tell the kids & Steve well we aren't doing "camp douglas" be we can always make time for family cuddles!
So, we all piled in cozy, cozy, comfy, comfy (as 'Si says it) and had the most wonderful cuddle time together. I started singing worship songs to them and every now and then 'Si & Kake would join in and as I rubbed my finger on her forehead; Again, Ithought "cherish these moments". 'Si was holding my face as I sang to them and Kayla cuddled close between us daddy & her were making ~cricket feet~ (it's a thing we all do to eachother when we are laying together. We rub our feet together till we fall asleep).

Kake was facing me and when I winked at her she squeezed my shoulder. We were singing different worship songs to our "precious blessings from heaven". In that very moment Steve & I knew this moment is one our children will cherish forever. We too cherish these moments and we tucked them in and the most precious sight to see is Kake holding 'Si while they sleep.

I had some one write to me and ask me how Kay & 'Si get along. I said they get along like all siblings do, why wouldn't they? They are both my children. My sweet girl just has a first mommy & I am the second.

Lately Josiah has been trying to grasp the concept of why sister has two homes and today he asked her, "tister - you first mommy she say yes? (kake (we) had no idea what he was trying to say) I asked him her mommy say yes for what? and he said, "her first mommy say yes to tister(sister) to she eat candy with me?"
He was asking if her first mommy would let her share one of his candies :)

On this busy day I have been so blessed to take the time to cherich the fleeting moments in our sometimes chaotic life schedules.

We will be at the wedding at 10:00 :) Beth & Tony are so exausted! They just left the church at 11:45 p.m tonight.

I better go sleep for a few hours before we hear that alarm clock at 5:30 a.m

I will try to ask Kito Ben to send me some pic's from the wedding

BUSY DAY!

We sold burritos this morning. It went pretty good! We are not only getting ready for Beth's wedding tomorrow but we also have the Christmas Street Fair we are selling at tomorrow! Our dining table is covered in bows, headbands, barrettes & ribbons and Christmas necklaces & pins too!

I have slacks & dress shirts to iron ties & socks to match that's all the guy stuff. Not to mention me & Kake our hair, shoes bla bla bla everything else. Afterwards we are hosting an after party here at our house - Our house doesn't even look like we are expecting to have guests tomorrow we have clothes hanging across the dining & living rooms and I already mentioned the table. My kitchen still looks like a burrito manufacturing place; AND YES EVERYTHING IS TOMORROW!!!! YIKES!!!!
Here is how it will[should] go:
TODAY - Steve & 'Si pick up Kake from school
Kake home
Me & Kake run errands (*real super quick)
Come back get dressed
Go to rehearsal
Decorate/ Set up Church
Come home CLEAN HOUSE
Kids to bed ('Si at least)
Get clothes ready
finish & pack up Street fair craft stuff
sleep (I HOPE)
TOMORROW
wake up get dressed
walk out clean, dressed & happy!! (PLEASE PRAY FOR THAT TO HAPPEN) l.o.l
get to church @ 9:00 a.m
watch my baby sister get married :) @ 10:00 a.m
have fun at 1st reception
clean up come home change and pack up
go to street fair at 2:00 p.m
sell from 2:30 - 6:00 p.m
clean up, pack up come home
6:30 Welcome guests to my(should be clean) house for an after wedding reception dinner party

SUNDAY wake up and go to church (probably all very tired)
*CAN I PLEASE RUN AWAY?!?!?*

'SI & 'Ri

Kick'n Cousins Awwww! we love each other
Mom came over this afternoon. She took this picture of 'Siah playing HIS drums :) (2 tambourines, a can- YES A CAN and a play drum. The mess in the back ground is where he was taking a nap at until Moriah woke him up by laying next to him. HE loved that!!! He was smiling from ear to ear. I think Beth got some pictures of that. Our burrito sale went pretty good! We are still under the gun and pressing for time but we are holding on!
Thanks so much for your kind thoughts, comments and prayers. We appreciate it so much! Steve has been out back in 'Lijah's garden all after noon it is Soooooooo coldy cold! Okay so California cold is nothing to be compared to New York, Colorado or Other cold States but for me it's bbbrrrrrr! coldy cold.

just noticed...

I just noticed, a prayer request posted . He is in "FULL CLEAN MODE"... ... ...
That is how he deals with stuff and while I enjoy a clean house, I do not enjoy watching my sweet heart worry like this. It is 11:30 p.m. we got home from bible study and found some 'not good news' on our front door. He has managed to clean my kitchen spotless, clean the bathroom, he is washing and hanging, cleaned our bedroom and I am not sure what else is clean!

I just heard our front door open- it is so cold outside and he just stepped out onto our front porch.

Dear Lord, I pray that YOU give Steve the courage that he needs right now. We trust you will see us through. You are our Faithful Provider.

So, these thoughts keep racing through my mind... ... ...
-Are we being punished?
-I'm tired!
-Why?
-When will this drought/curse/ punishment end?
-People must be tired of praying for us or hearing us ask for prayer.
- I hope I can sell a lot of breakfast burritos tomorrow.
-I hope we get a lot of orders for Christmas tamales.
- I don't want mom to worry.
-Thank God for Blogging (*sigh)
- The bibles promises are true.
-So what are You trying to teach us God?
- Show me how to fix what I have done wrong.
- I am sorry!
- I love you Lord!
- Miss you 'Lijah
-Beth's wedding is at such a hard financial time for us right now.
- I'm glad she is happy
-Tony is sweet
-Moriah is precious
- Steve is taking out trash from where? I do not know!
- YOU ARE MY ROCK & MY FORTRESS!
- I wish I could sleep 'no worries'
- Miss Kay
- It's cold
-Don't want people who read this to pitty us
- What else do I do?
- I LIFT MY EYES TO THE HILLS. FROM WHERE DOES MY HELP COME FROM? MY HELP COMES FROM THE LORD
- how much longer?
- when this is passed, what will we have learned?
- God is in control.
-It's CHRISTMAS season...
- Don't cry!
- Can't cry...
- MOLD ME & MAKE ME 'THIS IS WHAT I PRAY'
- Josiah is precious.
- HOPE!
- WHY?
- OTHERS
- I wish I could laugh.
- we need a miracle!
- do we?
- TEACH me the lesson Lord!
- learn it Marie!!!
- learn what?!?!
- how?
- what is it that I have done wrong?
- Steve just came into the kitchen - he is at the sink
- I wanna throw up
- God
- where are we?
- I know you are faithful & constant in our lives, so then where are we?
- I feel sick
-I need to trust
-I need to relax
- I can't
- tomorrow is a brand new day
- why can't i find a job?
- why can't Steve find a job?
- we need jobs!
- Ugggggh!
- I'm mad!!!!!!!!!!!
-I have a head ache!
- Galatians says 'whatever things are good, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are praise worthy, whatever things are noble, whatever things are of good report think on these things!
- AMEN!!!
- some how that feels better 'anxiety that was building up tight on my neck and shoulders is going away :)
- I want us to sleep in peace tonight
- oh yeah - I just gave some one the verse that says ' He will keep in perfect peace those whose mind is stayed on thee'
- Steve just walked out to the back door
- Molly is sweet :)
- Our class we taught tonight; was good!
- Love to hear Josiah say "thank you Jesus!" (all excited and his face all smiles) I love to hear that!
- Steve just came back in
- We serve a BIG GOD!
- Jesus loves me (AND YOU TOO!!!)
- headache going away
- love my new friends from the blog
- Lord please saturate Steve with your perfect peace. Let your presence rest upon him. Your word says 'your burden is light' give him rest. Sustain him, Strengthen Him, encourage him like only You can do! Please give us both a good night of rest as we trust in you.
- Need to do something
- Have no energy
- "THANK YOU JESUS!" (said it just like 'Si does) :) 3x :)
- Heavenly Father, I thank you for all that you are in our lives. I praise your name for you are a GREAT GOD!
Thank you for every blessing you pour out! Thank you for every door that shuts and every door that opens. Thank you for YOUR perfect peace! WE are troubled but YOU are HERE with us. You are in our midst. I can feel the PEACE raining down. My husband loves you- trusts you- believes in you and depends on your strength! I thank you for him in my life and because he is a wonderful dad. He is a hard worker and most of all because we have each other. I thank you because when we got the 'bad' news - He took me into our room and we prayed together. You are an excellent God and all you do is praiseworthy. I know you will see us through. Forgive my anxious thoughts. Bless those who are in need of you - that they might receive your perfect peace.
- Steve is back in the kitchen. washing something else
- He just hugged me :) 'told me he loves me'
- He just walked back out.
- i am soooooooooooooooo tired.
- I hope Steve comes to bed tonight.
- He never sleeps when he is stressed
- Tomorrow is a brand new day
- CASTING ALL my ANXIETIES ON YOU
- I'm tired
- Don't wanna ruin Beth's wedding
- Don't want mom to worry
- WHAT EVER THINGS ARE LOVELY... THINK ON THESE THINGS!!!!
- i'm tired
- its 12:32
- I've been blogging for an entire hour!
- done!

TRUSTING

our faith is being tried. HE WILL SEE US THROUGH!
please pray for our financial situation. our nations economy is bad for everyone and there are no jobs for my wife and I.
steve

NEW BLOGGER

Well, Beth came over and she is totally freaking out about her wedding Saturday. She had a long , long, long day of last minute shopping & errands for the wedding + Moriah to deal with today; not to mention Tony.
*Ahhh* I remember & it is so nice to remember the stress vs. going through it - because I am sure many of you can agree with me that remembering is so sweet because we just highlight the sweet memories of all the wedding prep.

Our wedding was HUGE we had like 500 guests. We had a wedding party of 22 +2 flower girls, a ring bearer and a children's court of 5(i think 5, can't remember off hand) but it was HUGE. after the wedding we had a second dinner reception at the coast. WE WERE SO EXHAUSTED!!!

Beth's wedding is small and there is still so much to do. She is stressing bad - enjoying it but stressing. Cindy & Josh have really been a HUGE help to Beth.

ANYWAYS I INVITE YOU TO VISIT HER BLOG & LEAVE HER A WELL WISH COMMENT. I know she will really enjoy it. she is on my side bar under friends along the journey or just click here :~)
PLEASE KEEP HER, TONY & MORIAH in your prayers as they embark on this new path of life together.
http://wedewsdo.blogspot.com

MORE MORIAH PIC'S

SHE LOOKS SO CUTE WHEN SHE LAUGHS!!

SHE IS SHOWING OFF THE BIG BOW/HEADBAND I MADE FOR HER

Confessions

So, I've shared about how I am married to Sgt. Clean, right? well did I tell you our children take after him!!!
Today is Tuesday and I must confess; 'camp douglas' was still up - I know... I know... Kayla has been gone since Sunday night, I know but yesterday - I just didn't get around to putting her mattress back in her room. This morning Steve was watching the morning news. Josiah stood up and said, "Daddy the sala(living room) is in a mess". Steve just giggled and asked Josiah, "what?" and Josiah replied, "daddy we need to clean up - to take Kayla's bed back".

Frank came to pick up Steve to finish the wood chopping and as soon as he walked out the door, Josiah started pulling out the vacuum cleaner and he said, "mommy lets clean"

HE LOOKS SO CUTE VACUUMING!! he is so motivated to clean just like is daddy & sister :~)

My sala is now clean & vacuumed because my [almost] 3 year old gave me my [cleaning] orders. I am cleaning the kitchen now & he is vacuuming his room.

*Ugggh* & I thought I would have another lazy day - NOT!!!

Steve will be home in an hour and I will be ready to relax in a clean house
THANKS TO MY SWEET BOY!!!

DENSE FOG!!!

This morning Josiah & I were on our way to an appointment. There was a dense fog advisory it was zero visibility. We were in traffic when I looked in my rear view mirror and then within seconds heard the screeching tires and then felt the BIG "BOOM"

We were rear ended. It was a young kid in his teens, I think he said he was 17 and had just gotten his licence. Thank God 'Si & I are okay and so is the young kid.

Steve went to help a man from church chop some wood, so he still doesn't know!

The car isn't bad either but Josiah can sure make all the sound effects and dramatizations of what happened. He called my mom and told her everything he even told her where we we were going too!

I think the kid wasn't watching where he was going cause he was driving much too fast. I could see he was comming real fast and I couldn't move out or I would have hit on comming traffic.

Moriah is 1 month old now

My mom emailed me this picture of her. She was napping so good - they could'nt wake her up! She was 2 hours passed her feeding & still not motivated to wake up.

One week from today...

In one week my Beth will be getting married. This was supposed to be a small event but as we all know weddings always get bigger & bigger.

So, today Beth went to pick up her wedding dress! We had so much fun. Kake went on a movie date with Tia Berba(Minn) & Maddie. We came back and then Cindy took me to buy me something to wear for the wedding - we are Beths 3 bridesmaids. Of course our day was filled with humor because Cindy was saying jokes about her still not being married YET!! Cindy is like a man on a mission whenever it comes to stuff like this - there is no stopping her!! She is like a... ... okay I better stop now, but I am serious we laughed so hard my chest started to hurt from laughing at ourselves so much. We had a name for almost every piece of clothing we tried on. There was 'bubbles', 'granny', 'balloon', 'barney' and others too! Of course we did not bring any of those home for us to wear! Geeze I just can't figure out why those darn dresses don't look like they do on the models?!?!
*HA! HA! HA!* (stinky dresses whats wrong with them, oh wait maybe it's the mirrors) RIGHT!!!!
Oh well I may not have a models figure but I had a wonderfully fun day & I needed a day like this it was sooooooooo much fun.
I had a great day and so did my kiddo's & daddy too!!!
Steve said -"I've been trying to get you to go out with Cindy for a long time!!!
I had fun!
I better go now cause I have to be sure to get 'Si's tie ready for church tomorrow - Oh I saw the cutest little suits when we were out today, I didn't know they made them in their sizes!! (too cute) I wanted Kake to go with us but of course she chose movies with maddie :~)

Wooo Whoo!!

... And the indoor clothes line worked!!! NOW, are living room looks like a real authentic camping spot. Darn, all we need are the smores. Oh well maybe we can get some for next weekend. YOU should see this -
our dining room and living room adorned with zig zag lines of hanging clothes. Kake called it "The line of happy pants". She's so silly!!

(WOW! I guess I am, becoming an easy to please woman l.o.l!!!!!!!!!!!!)
You should have seen me... I was so excited when Steve finished it.
The kids & I clapped and cheered "YAEY! DADDY - YOU DID IT! YOU'RE THE BEST"

Steve, Kake & I all hung clothes on the line and then, daddy pulled out Kake's mattress and "camp Douglas" was a roaring rumble of fun!!! We ate 'Si's famous oatmeal biscuits and cold milk! (YUMMY- wish I knew how much of everything he added) We watched the 8 O' clock cartoon an ABC 'The Polar Express' ('Si LOVED IT-he was entranced)

We were almost tempted to make a switch off on the sleeping arrangements at camp douglas - but , I think we will keep it as usual. We talked of doing a boys - girls -separate but we were voted down!!

At dinner, Kay asked me if in heaven we are gonna look the same as we do now. She asked how 'Lijah is gonna know we are there. She asked if she will have her own mansion. We answered each question with scripture. She loved the 'having a crown' part of the bible :~) 'Si's favorite part was the no sleep/tired part and the happy parties! We all broke out in loud laughter whenever Josiah yelled out, "Man, 'Lijah a brat" (huge smile)

*** SHhHhhh please don't tell... I think I might bail out on camp douglas tonight (p.m.s) UgggGh!
I know T.M.I :~)

TGIF! Kay's home for the weekend

We woke up this morning and did laundry (forecast said sunny - not true) my clothes is still soggy on the lines.
Picked up Kake at 1:30 this afternoon.

She and Steve worked all afternoon putting up Christmas lights and decorations in the yard. Josiah napped and I sneaked in a tiny cat nap too :~)

We are enjoying a nice family evening. Kay & 'Si are in our bedroom, watching T.V

Steve is working on making me an indoor clothesline!!! so glad, warm DRY clothes :~)

Kay is already singing " Family- Fun- Friday Camp - out tonight"

So I guess it's camp out night again :)

My Thanksgiving day (we are back home now)

It is 7:45. My precious 'Si is fast asleep on the couch (he skipped nap time today). Daddy is out in the yard putting up Christmas lights (yes! in the dark - he's crazy like that). I just finished cleaning up the kitchen from my baking this morning.

My day started out nice. Steve took 'Si to the annual Church Turkey bowl. They were both dressed in grey sweats and their matching Raiders Jersey. This will probably be the last time 'Si gets to wear his. It is too small. We got it as a gift for his baby shower and he finally sorta fit into it at 1 yr. old and wore it last year too. I think next season it will not fit any more!

I stayed home . I enjoyed a nice long hot shower; worship playing in the background. I got out put on some comfies, dried my hair, read my bible, prayed, blogged and started my baking. I baked bananana nut bread and zuccini bread (missed my Kake). The house was so quiet. This is the first time 'Si has gone to the Turkey Bowl without me Such a treat!!!.

I was just starting the oatmeal chocolate nut cookies when Daddy & 'Si walked through the front door. Yes, you better believe 'Si washed up and hopped onto a chair to "help" me bake. Steve had jumped in the shower and I went into the kitchen to pull loaves out of the oven and whenI returned to the dining table. Josiah was covered in flour, the cookie batter was floating in melted butter and a fresh white glistening lump of sugar.
*Aaaaagh!!!* I tried to see what all he had added to the mix but there was no way of knowing what all was in there. - Oh well, we baked them any ways we ended up with OATMEAL CHOCOLATE CHIP NUT BISQUITS rather than oatmeal cookies. L.O.L!!!

Then I let HIM(all by himself) make peanut butter cookies (so wish we had at least a camera phone to show you all his YUMMY peanut butter cookies!! They were a hit!!!

I finished baking got dressed and went over to Ben & Minn's. We have a tradition of taking turns saying what we are thankful for. When it was Josiah's turn he was the first to mention 'Lijah. He said, "I- I - Um- I thankful for my 'lijah". WE ALL got choked up! I smiled at him and said," yeah baby me too, I'm thankful for 'Lijah too!"

I was doing good and then all of the sudden I started feeling anxious. I couldn't concentrate and I felt out of place. Steve & Josiah were outside with all the boys playing horse shoes. I felt as if I had nothing to say to mom, Cindy or my sisters. I was so uncomfortable. Steve & I drove to Parlier to the cemetery to take the wreath I had made.

We sat on the grass quietly, for a very long time. It started getting dark and very cold. The sky was beautifully grey and cloudy. I began to feel so tired. Like I finally let out a big sigh! We walked over to my grandparents grave and my uncles and aunt's as well (they are just a few rows away). We also went to Mr. Lincoln's grave (Ben's dad - Beth nicknamed him Lincoln) His grave is just across from 'Lijah's.

We went back to Ben's to pick up Josiah. Jonathan was there now. We were emotionally tired and ready to go home but we went in and visited for a bit. Cindy left and Christine was there too. Her hug was so warm and comforting.(sweet friend)!!

We packed up 'Si's things and my dishes plus a yummy take -home of all the left overs. We said our good-byes and called it a day!

It was a good day - difficult and emotional but GOOD! BLESSED! with Love, longing, Pain , Peace, Comfort, Strength &Hope!!!

Seasons

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

1 To every thing there is a season, and a time for every purpose under the heaven:
2 a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
3 a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; 4 a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; 5 a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
6 a time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; 7 a time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
8 a time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.

Today is a brand new day. A day that I CHOOSE TO delight myself in. TO think on the things which I have been blessed with. I am thankful because, In Psalms I read that " His mercies are new every day".

I cannot turn back the hands of time. We cannot stay in one season forever. Seasons change. & Everything has a time and a purpose.

I spent yesterday, mourning and grieving the fact that I miss Elijah terribly. At the end of the day I read the blog of : BABY JACOB(on my side bar). After spending the evening alone with Steve watching videos, pictures and remembering. I realized that It was time for me to stand up again!

I went to the Lord in prayer read my bible and was encouraged and reminded by the Holy Spirit, "THAT, everything has a season ans a purpose"

I had watched the video of Elijah's Funeral service. Pastor preached on living a life of purpose and fulfilling your purpose. Elijah did!

I need to see the season I am in and know that I have been chosen for this! The bible says, "I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS ME"

I, have always known my God; intimately in EVERY season of my life!

WE are not saying we will not still have sad days and moments of weeping, but for today; "THIS IS THE DAY I CHOOSE TO SAY 'BLESSED BE YOUR NAME- YOU GIVE AND TAKE AWAY, MY HEART WILL CHOOSE TO SAY, BLESSED BE YOUR NAME"

Steve & I are so thankful that we have been blessed with very dear and treasured friends through this season of our lives. Our prayer is that in some way we can blog our lives in a manner which in some way might bless you!

I am thankful for my children. ALL of them. My precious beautiful daughter born, not to me but in my heart. My first born son and for 9 months plus 25and 1/2 hours with Elijah Nathaniel Douglas. I am thankful for the HOPE AND ASSURANCE of heaven and that 'sweet, sweet someday!'

Miss You 'Lijah, My heart misses you so deep, but My heart is also at peace. I am so happy to be your mommy. I miss your sweet face. I miss holding your precious little body in my arms; BUT most of all, 'Lijah I am very, very happy in my heart because I know I did my best for you. I read you the bible every day, since I knew you were inside of me. I sang worship songs to you. WE sang worship songs together when you were inside of me and when you were in my arms too! 'Lijah I remember talking to you and Josiah about heaven together. We still talk about heaven. Kay & 'Si think about you & what it must be like in heaven. I remember when you were leaving to your beautiful new mansion in heaven, I whispered in your ears that you would see beautiful streets of gold, rivers of crystal, foundations of precious stones, A tree of Life . MOST OF all I whispered in your ear that you were gonna love to be in the presence of GOD forever and ever. I whispered into your ear that WE would all be comming there too, someday. We can't hardley wait sweet boy, to be in the presence of GOD forever together.

See you soon swet boy!

Love you so so much,

Mommy

NOT TODAY

We brought home everything from the cemetery last Saturday because it was mowing day. Last night I made a beautiful lush fall foliage wreath with a huge gold bow.

This morning we went into Fowler (Marshall School) then to Parlier(cemetery & mom's house)

Steve asked if I wanted to go to the cemetery first or moms first. F.Y.I -It would make more sense to go to the cemetery first because we were coming from Adams Avenue. The cemetery is BEFORE mom's from Adams Ave.

I said, "mom's house." Steve was surprised. He drove right passed the cemetery and kept looking towards 'Lijah's spot. We got to mom's & I took the wreath in to show her. We stayed for lunch and then I said, "lets go home now". We packed up 'Si & buckled him. We sat quietly for a minute and Steve asked, "Are we gonna go?" "Ummmm... not today", I said. "okay"he said & we drove home.

I couldn't do it - I don't know why. I just couldn't do it... ~not today~
************************************************************************************
Yeah, it is a bit of a bum deal for Holiday Scheduling. For BOTH families. Mostly for my Kake though, she always feels like she is missing out. Steve is missing her alot today he keeps wondering what she is doing. I still haven't made that bread we were gonna make either. I will though, I have to - It is what I'm taking to Ben & Minn's for Thanksgiving.

Cindy's gonna go to Texas for Christmas. She came over last night. It was fun! we laughed and talked & laughed some more. I got the courage to tell her I was feeling panicky about her not being here for Christmas. (we will be okay :~)
She is also gonna miss Josiah's 3rd birthday on December 27th. IT will be a very small cake celebration at home I am sure!

My heart is some what heavy today, I want so much for Elijah to be with me for Thanksgiving. Last year at Thanksgiving I had just found out we were having a baby & I was so excited to be pregnant for the Holiday's KNOWING that by Holidays 2008 I would have a chubby 5 almost 6 month old to feed mashed potatoes to and we would be loaded down with walker, high chair, sippy cup. ~ not today~

Thanksgiving week

Well... we were mistaken on our holiday dates. Kayla will not be with us this year. We some how forgot that she was with us last year. We were very happy thinking & planning the week out and last night we realized it is her mommy's holiday.

This morning we made breakfast and then just hung out for a bit- before taking her back.

I was bummed out & I could tell Steve was too. Then, I remembered yesterday's sermon at church; about being thankful for what we DO have.

I heard Steve in Kay's room and could here him telling her, "he loved her and was so "thankful for her" I went in and they were cuddling on her bed together. She had a new blouse she had gotten for Thanksgiving day, we had her pack it in her bag & hope she will be able to wear it!

WE WILL GIVE THANKS FOR ALL WE HAVE BEEN GIVEN AND FOR THE BLESSING WE HAVE BEEN GIVEN WITH THE LIFE, BIRTH & DEATH OF ELIJAH
*we will be holding on to all the positive thoughts & prayers*
STEVE & I WOULD LIKE TO SAY; "WE ARE THANKFUL FOR YOU!!!"

WEEKEND! WEEKEND! WEEKEND!

Our sweetheart is home!!! We camped out at "Camp Douglas" again.
Today is Saturday and we woke up early to go serve at the Thanksgiving Feeding.
We got home and are getting ready for a birthday party for Samantha (Kayla's friend from church)

MORE LATER :)
A thought...
Economy Bad - GOD GOOD! - FAMILY GREAT - KAKIE HOME, DELIGHTFUL!!!

gotta go I have to munchinks to dress plus we are picking up Maddie & Julie too!
Josiah will be surrounded by girls! girls! girls! (whata guy)

Father Glorify Your Name

Steve is going through his grieving time. Yesterday, Josiah & I went over to moms. I am making bows, ribbons, clips and headbands to sell.(Praying no one snag that idea- I was gonna start selling b-fast & lunch burritos at the school I used to work at and some one beat me to it) We had a craft making day at moms & Josiah enjoyed cuddling with Moriah.

We came home in time for dinner and mom & Beth came over. Steve talked with mom a little bit. Mostly he was very quiet.

This morning I was dressing Josiah and we were saying out morning prayers. I had already spend a great part of early morning prayers, asking God for strength & courage. I prayed for others who need to know Jesus too. I prayed for the people who are worse off then us. Mostly I prayed for courage & strength for today.

Putting my brave foot forward, I told Josiah it was time for morning prayers.
"Oh Jesus please let my 'Lijah come back today", he said.

I was fighting back the tears and I explained, " 'Lijah can't come back bubba". "Why?" he asked.
"because he is with Jesus and he is waiting for us all to go see him in heaven". "we go right now, momma?" "no sweetheart, not today but soon, when Jesus blows the trumpet and he will come to take us all together, to live with ' Lijah" (MORE DISCUSSION TO HEART WRENCHING TO WRITE)... ...

I couldn't bare it any longer. Finally I was able to distract him!!
I set him up on the table with a bowl of cereal and ran to my desk! Wishing I had a good devotional - desperate for something uplifting to my soul. I went online searched devotionals - nothing. I looked up verses. My bible sitting right next to the computer and I thought, "Lord give me a word! My tears rolling down my face. Knowing full well that Steve too is crying in the room. We are both hurting for our pain, but also hurting because our little boy is missing his brother. Oh the stinging pain can sometimes be so overwhelming.

I grab my bible and begin flipping through the pages, desperately seeking COURAGE, STRENGTH, HOPE FOR TODAY, FAITH TO KEEP GOING.

I have lots of verses coming to my mind as I am flipping through the pages
2 Corinthians 12:9 Jesus said "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
2 Corinthians 4:8 Apostle Paul said " We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.

John 12:27 Jesus is talking to the disciples before he is crucified "Now my heart is troubled, and what shall I say? 'Father, save me from this hour'? No, it is for this very reason I came to this hour. "Father, glorify your name!"

Jesus heart was also heavy, troubled. He was feeling the load upon his earthly body. He took comfort in The Father being glorified in that very time.

Steve & I have a troubled heart. But our Heavenly Father shall be glorified in this hour. Steve whispered into my ear on Feb. 13th "Blessed be The Name of The Lord, He gives and takes away. Our hearts will choose to bless His Name"

When we talked on the way home that night, holding each others hands tightly we said, "God has a reason and a divine plan".

Several times we have spoken saying, "We will bless your name! We Choose to trust your divine plan." The days have gotten harder at times and financial troubles have also played into this time. As I read His TRUTHS I must believe "Father, glorify your name". He will be glorified in this time.

Our hearts are troubled BUT I AM CERTAIN THAT "His divine plan will unfold in our lives and He will be glorified in our daily trials of missing Elijah and hurting for our Kay & 'Si missing their brother; Through our financial stresses. HE IS ON THE THRONE & WE WILL SERVE HIM AS BEST WE CAN SO THAT HE WILL BE GLORIFIED IN THIS TIME

Thank you all for your prayers... we are really needing them and being uplifted by them. Your comments have also uplifted my heart. We will continue on because of Christ in us.

I better get going I have house work, school time and then We go get our Kakie girl :)

STEVE

My sweetheart is very broken hearted. He is so sad, I don't know what to do! Well I do know that "our help comes from the Lord"

But outside of praying and keeping the faith - I don't know how to help him. He is missing Elijah so much, ever since Moriah was born & now even more because the Holiday's are comming.

He has been dreaming 'Lijah every night for the past week. Last night he said, he dram he was playing ball with the kids and 'Lijah was about 1yr. old and he was running in the front yard with his "smart boy bubble" & all!

P L E A S E *** P L E A S E *** P L E A S E*** say extra prayers for him & us RIGHT NOW!
Oh & he also lost his job (bad economy).

He is missing Kayla too & I tell him she will be home on Friday, but he is so sad. Yesturday, he started working on a tree house for her in the back yard.
JUST PRAY PLEASE! I need strength to carry him through this.

FOR ANY ONE WHO HAS POWER VERSES, I AM DESPERATE FOR THEM RIGHT NOW!!
I JUST NEED STRENGTH. Steve needs comfort , healing and compassion.

Moriah's 1st "Chongo" (Piggy Tail)

THIS PICTURE WAS TAKEN THIS MORNING!

SHE IS 4 WEEKS TOMORROW!

PLEASE READ!!! ALL THE WAY THROUGH

Okay, so I hope you all noticed the new link at the top of my side bar. http://pages.teamintraining.org/ntx/bigd09/jpopst (I don't know how to do this link stuff to well) BUT PLEASE!!

I know the economy is bad right now, for everyone all over!!
We are all in this world together. In one way or another we all affect people around us, whether positive or negative our choices and decisions, do have an impact on those around us.

This is a very good cause. My children, husband & I came up with a very creative idea to help raise money for this GREAT cause:
We have discussed what is the something we can do? -
WE ARE GOING TO RECYCLE ALUMINUM SODA CANS and whatever redemptive value we receive we will make that our donation.

So see, even in a bad economy there are ways we can make a difference. People who suffer from this disease need us to stand in the gap!! WE NEED TO BE THERE FOR THEM IN ANY WAY WE CAN!!!

WHY DO YOU CARE MARIE?
well 2 reasons!

1.) A very dear Friend of our families is running the marathon to raise money.
2.) My 14 year old nephew(from my brothers side) is in remission right now from a very fast type of leukemia. He was diagnosed when he was just eight years old and has undergone numerous extenuating treatments. He has lost all of his hair, lost tons of weight gotten both back after much hardship endured. WE have almost lost him 3 times!! BUT THANKS BE TO GOD FOR HIS MERCY & THE KNOWLEDGE HE HAS GIVEN MEDICAL SCIENCE AND FOR PEOPLE LIKE OUR DEAR FRIEND & OTHERS who are not complacent. People who DO; as if it were for their very own!!
*I know this is sorta tugging at your heart strings but in your head you are thinking " I am barely making it. I don't have money. " etc. etc.
PLEASE take a look at your children, parents, spouses, friends and know that someone just like them are suffering the pain of cancer!!

ANY AMOUNT IS APPRECIATED!!!
It is ALL of us putting in our nickels, dimes and pennies that can make a difference!!!
* In closing I just want to share a thought that crossed my mind;
In the Bible Jesus said, "WHAT YOU HAVE DONE FOR THESE YOU HAVE DONE UNTO ME" the bible also says that one day He(Jesus) will tell us "when I was sick, you attended to me, when I was cold you, clothed me, when I was hungry , you fed me. When I was in need you helped me. WEll DONE"

honestly, even a $1.oo donation would help someones loved one. WE can all come up with at least one dollar, right? PLEASE DO WHAT IS TUGGING AT YOUR HEART! PLEASE!!
* A few ideas:
ask 5 or 10 people at your church groups, circle of friends, job sites to donate just $1.00 and donate in a group. Or set up a can at your desk. Pass the word along. There are lots of ways we can all do a little something and know that WE were each a part of something great!! talk to your kids about it. They are full of ideas. And it is a great project for school credit. Many schools here in California do a Character Counts Service Project as a requirement. Or for the younger kids as an incentive to be creative & care about the world we live in. LET'S SET A GOOD EXAMPLE!!
Let me know some of your creative ideas :~)
THANK YOU! THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!

See Josiah On Worship Team

Here is a picture of Joisah. Pastor says he is almost certain our church has the youngest guitar player in any church!! l.o.l

He is standing right under the spot light so you can barely see the guitar and can't see he is wearing a tie! He has a pick too and his guitar even has a homemade strap on it :)

He sings his little heart out!!!

HE LOVES TO BE JUST LIKE PASTOR!!!!!

On another-some what, sad note: I attended my very first funeral since Elijah died. It was my nephew Isaiah's grandma. She passed away. We drove all the way to Corcoran (a long 1 hour drive). Jonathan was with us- we talked all the way over there & read some bible verses. Steve stayed home with 'Si & just me & Jonathan went with mom. I had not even realized that I was going to a funeral for the first time since 'Lijah. (no clue I would feel so emotionally fragile).

I got to the tiny church, so packed with people. It was standing room only & people were still spilling out into the church yard. Today it was 78 degrees (crazy weather). Kids whining & crying all over the place and they were hot too; made me thank God 'Si didn't have to go through that.

I saw my nephew (8yrs. old) and he came and hugged me & mom. Then went with his daddy (Jonathan). The service started. I am not sure what all contributed to my emotional whirlwind going on inside of me that made me nauseous & shaky but I noticed I was staring at the flowers all around the casket and then started picturing 'Lijah's tiny casket. Grandma Carol's casket was white, just like 'Lijah's except much larger. I tried hard to shake myself out of this whirlwind.

I was sitting right by a side exit door. I kept wishing I could run out but for some reason it was as though I was paralyzed by something. Over & over I kept thinking "breath, get up & just walk out". I even thought of Susie, Kristy & Karen (women I have come to look to, in admiration for their strength to keep ministering through their grief). I thought about a blog entry from Susie; where she once wrote about how she would excuse herself from church services right after Joshua went to heaven. I kept telling myself, "EXCUSE YOURSELF! EXCUSE YOURSELF - THE DOOR IS RIGHT THERE, JUST EXCUSE YOURSELF" but I couldn't move.

Finally the service was over and Jonathan motioned to me to lets go - I was more than ready.

We went up to say bye to Isaiah, his mom, uncles & grandpa. IT WAS HARD!

I hugged Isaiah and as I squatted down to tell him I was sorry that he was going to miss his grandma Carol. He looked at me and said, "Tia now, she is with your baby huh?!"(it was more of a statement but still had a sense of question to it). I squeezed his little shoulders and looked into his precious big eyes. With all the courage & strength within me I managed to half smile while fighting back tears. I just nodded and barely spoke out, "yeah!" making sure that I was smiling! I held him and told him I loved him and he said, "me too Tia, thank you"

Needless to say, I will not be attending tomorrow's burial services. I just don't feel strong enough to go. I told mom tonight and she really understood. Ugggh! I just wish I was strong enough to minister love & compassion to others in grief - I just can't seem to get there though!

PHONE- FUNNY

So last night we called Kayla to see how her project & report turned out. Josiah starts bouncing around all over the couch because he heard us say we are calling Kayla. Steve says, Kayla's moms name and Josiah starts clapping his hands saying her name over and over. Kayla gets on the phone and talks with daddy for a few minutes and Josiah is all over him trying to here his sissy's voice. After their talk daddy gives Josiah the phone and he talks to sister(just thrilled) when we start to tell him to say good night to sister and that we will pick her up next Friday his voice cracked a tiny bit - but he did good.

So now we are both giving daddy a back rub in the living room. Josiah gets bored of playing with the lotion. He goes to his room. After a long while, he comes back into the living room, sits (quietly) on the far back side of the couch. I should have known when he came "quietly".

Several minutes pass and he is still silent. My hand are full of lotion and we ask him a question or two every few minutes and he answers. We think, Oh okay so he is; just playing! (wrong!)

He had some how gotten the cordless phone and was pushing buttons. Daddy says, " Josiah you better put that phone back" (right. cause all you have to do is tell a two almost 3 year old what to do & they automatically listen right?)

My hands are still full of lotion and by now Josiah is sitting on daddy's legs(with the phone)
we here him say, "huh? huh?" I tell him, "Josiah hang up that phone"(I know- I know I should have just got taken the phone from him) BUT ALL YOU PARENTS OF TODDLERS KNOW about trying to finish up a task real quick - I was almost done & hands covered in lotion!!!

So, we here those automated voice operators talking and they say "The CRICKET(a cell phone company) number you are calling has been disconnected" Josiah's eyes widen & he gets this excited look on his face and says, "Mommy I call a cricket! I call a cricket!!" Steve started laughing (into the pillow) and I say, "Josiah stop playing with the phone" (I was trying to rub out ALL the layers of lotion, Josiah had poured on daddy's back) The kid is still pushing buttons.

Now, Steve says very sternly, "Josiah you better put that phone down or your gonna get a time out little boy!"

Josiah climbs off daddy's legs and sits farther away. Now we here him say(very quietly) "huh? I can't. No!" He pushed the speaker button, because we here the automated operator say "please hang up and try your call again" Josiah looks at us wide eyed (the I'm in trouble look) I am now starting to get up and Josiah pushes a button quickly, thinking he was hanging up the phone. He did not hand up so the operator again says, "please hang up & try your call again" He crawls behind the couch and whispers desperately, "I can't - my daddy say I in trouble" (operator keeps talking - Josiah pushing and pushing buttons operator keeps talking. Josiah says, "NO! STOP TALKING ME- I can't call you later! MY DADDY GET MAD" - "LISTEN", he yells "Listen to me -NO MY DADDY GET MAD - I NO CALL YOU BACK- NO!!! NOOOOOO!" I am putting the lotion away & Steve is getting up (we are both trying HARD not let Josiah see us laughing)
When Josiah (now very frustrated with this man- who is trying to get him in trouble) sighs in exasperation "UUUuugggggGggHHH, DADDY HE NO LISTEN TO ME!!!" throws the phone onto the couch and looks at me and says, "Me no call him back mommy. Me listen." looks at Steve pick up the phone as he sits on the couch- Josiah says "daddy gonna tell him!" SO... ... Daddy puts the phone to his ear and says, "Mr! Josiah not gonna call you back! You can't talk to Josiah no more he is only 2 years old & you better not tell him to call you NO MORE"

Josiah looks (wide eyed) very serious at Steve (the - so, there my daddy told you, look!) and says "he no call me no more daddy?" (Steve trying to hold in his laugh) "He get in trouble daddy? he no tell me to call him back later?" a very quiet "no" is all I could say (trying not to bust out laughing.

*WE THOUGHT THIS WAS VERY FUNNY & THOUGHT YOU MIGHT ENJOY A LAUGH*

Here we are having carpet time at school! He loves the messy, goopy stuff. This is the pancake mix with water before we added the purple cool-aid. Today we made & painted "thankfulness baskets" out of cut apart egg cartons. When I asked him what he was thankful for he quickly shouted out, "Lee-La! me thankful for my "Lee-La"!!!!(so sweet :~) He cried so bad when she left on Tuesday night. My heart was mostly broken for my sweet girl; I remember whenever her sister was probably around Josiah's age and we would go to their home to pick Kayla up & her little sister would cry as her Kayla got in our car & we drove off. Kayla's eyes filled with tears as she looked back til we turned the corner. Now she is going through it again with ' Si & soon she will have to go through this again for her baby brother at her mom's house. These sweet babies are still young and don't understand what is going on. She called home from her mom's to check on 'Si Tuesday night- SHE IS A SWEETHEART.

I am so grateful because Kayla's mom really seems to understand, like once when I was pregnant with Elijah, We were on our way to get Kayla but were not near her school but passed a school with a similar play equipment and Josiah started crying & crying because he thought we had passed Kayla's school - not stopping to pick up his sister. I called Kay's mom and explained what had happened & she agreed to let Kayla talk to Josiah for a minute. Once she too had to call our cell phone because her sister was crying for Kayla as well.

One thing is for sure - "OUR GIRL IS SO SWEET"! (missing her so bad - wish she was gonna be here for Sat. when we go sell at the auction)

SCHOOL TIME

Josiah & I had school again. It felt like forever since we last had school, because of the long weekend & Kake being home!

We are still on the autum/fall theme & of course giving thanks. Our verse for the week is 1 Thessalonians 5 :18 "In everything give thanks"

It is so funny to here him try to say thessalonians he says "fetha-a-almiamamanoiance" too funny after two tries to get him to pronounce it the right way I just said, okay then just say in everything give thanks and then he laughed again and tried saying the whole verse once more and then said , "mama I don't know it too hard".

We played with pancake mix, water & purple cool-aid mix and played patty cake singing our new give thanks song.

We don't get to bring Kayla tomorrow because it is her moms weekend. So we will miss her on our family stuff this weekend. We might go sell at the local auction and she loves to go but she has never gotten to go & sell so we will really miss her. She & my mom are partners when it comes to selling!!! I know my moms already missing her, she called & asked are we getting Kay this weekend? & when I said, "no its her moms weekend" she sounded VERY disapointed:~(

I better go for now cause its school time for my 'Si!!!

My Kids Weekend

Kayla busied herself all weekend long. She either played with 'Si, hung out with mom, crawled all over dad or... ... ... (I think her all time favorite) INVENTING & BUILDING A TREE SWING!
She came up with the idea one of the days while I was hanging laundry. First her & 'Si were playing ball & the next thing I know My two monkeys are swing off a tree swing.

AND HERE, IS HER & BROTHER POSING PROUDLY WITH HER FINISHED PROJECT.

her TROPICAL RAIN FOREST!!

with everything from a body of water, swinging monkeys, butterfly's, bananas & berries to a rain forest snake & tropical flowers too! :~)

SHE IS SO PROUD OF HER HARD WORK!

not only daddy, mommy & josiah helped Kay, so did Kito-Ben!! He bought Kake the banana stickers.

16 weeks ago

It has been 16 weeks that at this very moment my little angels body was cuddled in my arms(lifeless? NO! not his soul!!!).

We have shared before about how warming and sweet The Perfect Peace Of God just envelopes us during worship, and when are precious Kakie is home with us, Steve, Josiah & I are overwhelmed with a feeling of complete wholeness.

Yesterday was one of those days. Watching her worship & sing unto her Lord & Savior standing next to me is an amazing feeling. Whether she is clapping and giggling with her bubba facing her, standing on the worship team strumming his guitar or if she is kneeling face bowed, hands raised, tears streaming down her face; We know she has a precious relationship with God!

This weekend has been a slumber party weekend at the Douglas Home. The blankets never really went to far from the living room... ... We've had a "camp out in the sala(living room)" weekend. It's been so much fun!

Yesturday we ended up not going to the cemetery for several reasons, 1. it was soggy wet from rain, 2. Kay got invited to spend the afternoon with Maddie, 3. I was feeling numb emotionally, and 4. Josiah was actually begging for a nap!!! Steve & I cuddled on the couch and watched football together all afternoon. (It was a nice treat - football with my sweetheart uninterrupted). We laughed when we were snacking & he said, "Hey this feels like when we were dating!"

My two precious blessings are cuddled closely under the covers. "KODAK MOMENT" :~)
I covered them up as I walked into the kitchen to get on the computer and my heart ached when this thought crossed my mind, "My two precious blessings" because My other
"Blessing - My 'Lijah" isn't with us.

Last night at church Kay was sitting with all the girls during dinner & worship. Usually she is the first in line for desserts after worship and last night, Steve asked me, "whats wrong with Kayla?" I looked over at her and she was just sitting there looking as if she was about to cry or like if she was sick. I asked her what was wrong and she just nodded, nothing. Steve said, "why isn't she in line for dessert with all the kids?" I waved her to come to me and as soon as she was in front of me she threw herself onto my arms and began to sob saying, "oh mommy I miss my 'Lijah" - I walked with her to a back room in our church and just held her. We comforted her and told her we loved her and we know how much she misses him! I held her for about 5-7 minutes and in those 7 minutes she expressed something to us she had never told us since 'Lijah died. She said, "I am sad but I am mad too because I only got to hold him once"

I assured her that we all felt that exact same way. We ALL feel mad & sad because he left so fast. As she held onto my neck tightly I whispered, "Baby girl do you want to know a beautiful secret? she looked at me and nodded yes tears rolling down her precious face. I said," look at mommy for a second okay" and when she looked into my eyes I told her, "do you know that no matter where you are at, in church at school at home with your mommy or at home with daddy & me "If you begin to sing worship to Jesus then you & 'Lijah are both in the presence of God, doing the exact same thing? and just like when daddy hugs & cuddles both you & 'Si it is the same with you & 'Lijah. When you are worshiping so is 'Lijah and Jesus is loving & cuddling both of you!" Her beautiful blue tear filled eyes just looked at me and she smiled and said, "okay, mommy" I said, "but we can still be sad & even mad because we didn't get to hold him that much & Jesus understands okay!" We wiped her face and she served herself dessert & hot cocoa and went upstairs for class.
*HUGE SIGH For Steve & I* (Oh we just wish we could take her pain away)

My pumpkins are still cuddled under the covers at "CAMP DOUGLAS"
Later today we are going to go out to the cemetery and Josiah asked if he could take his ball to play with 'Lijah so we might take the ball out there. We want to take a "family" picture cause Kay is home with us!!!

Dear 'Lijah:
I miss you sweet boy! Kakie & 'Si miss you too. Yesterday before church daddy was listening to your song "I'll fly away" he went and stood in front of the window, looking out side. His hands gripped the window seal and he cried silently. Daddy misses you a lot more since Moriah came home. I do too!
Today sissy & bubba want to go to the cemetery to play ball. Saturday night mommy showed them a new ball game in the tub and we were laughing & giggling with the ball bouncing all over the bathroom - I missed you at that moment so much! Daddy came into the bathroom and watched us be silly for a bit and then I noticed his eyes filled with tears and he walked out.
'Lijah, we aren't sad cause your in heaven, we know we will see you again we are all just sad for the things we have to do WITHOUT YOU!
There are so very many people who miss you - I know! I see it in Ya-Ya's face sometimes, even when she is trying to be strong. I know it- she misses having you here with Moriah, like it was supposed to be! Grandma misses you too - she bought you a card for your birthday- she wrote to you! Whenever Tio Jonathan comes over he will either look at your pictures quietly or go out to your flower garden. Nina & Nino don't say to much and they also don't come over that much but I know their hearts hurt for you too - Nino's dad went to be with Jesus just 6 weeks after we found out you were coming. Nino misses his dad just like we miss you. Yesterday at church, Tia Cindy said nothing to me about you but her hugs and her tear filled eyes looking at me as I held Moriah SAID IT ALL! Tia Cindy hurts when mommy hurts. She is Mommy's best friend.Daddy & I have to try & be brave sweet boy & we are trying everyday!!!

WE LOVE YOU & WE MISS YOU PAPA'S!!!

TODAY & YESTURDAY

TODAY, ELIJAH WOULD HAVE BEEN 4 MONTHS OLD. Not sure how we will feel today but one thing is certain;

THIS IS THE DAY WHICH THE LORD HAS MADE & WE WILL REJOICE & BE GLAD IN IT!!!

Yesterday's day out was a wonderful time! After getting Kay some stuff at Old Navy we went to a consignment store and looked around then we came home & had sandwiches for lunch.

Josiah was very tired and fell asleep right after lunch. Daddy put in a movie for himself & Kakie & I worked on the computer gathering data for her ecosystem project.

Once she had taken notes and written important data, we turned off the computer, Daddy turned off the movie & we went out in our back yard and worked on her project with her.

She walked all over our back yard looking for various types of plants, twigs & Mommy even let her pull apart some brand new plant moss from 'Lijah's flower garden. We also used a tiny bit of a plant from ' Lijah's funeral too. Kake thought that was so special. She said, "Oh mom brother's gonna help me get a good grade on my project". We both smiled. Kake painted the inside of her box with green tempera paint and then we began to work on the tree limbs with cut up news paper that she rolled into a long tiny strips. She is making a TROPICAL RAIN FOREST.

We had so much fun. Daddy help with spray painting the stuff that needed stronger paint. & Mommy helped her with the glue gun. We were getting into the whole project mode thing with Josiah now working on "his own" Ecosystem box (copying sister of course) When suddenly without warning... ... RAIN!! We began screaming(well just mommy & Kake) the boys were laughing at us as we all ran around gathering our stuff. When Kakie says, "Well, we can't have a Tropical Rain Forest without rain!" We all laughed and ran inside.

We will work on her project again today, when Josiah takes his nap. After that Josiah & Dad went to the store while Kake & I had a great time cooking dinner together. I taught her how to make grandma's famous Spanish rice & tacos de carne asada. I stood by her the entire time but watching her cook just reminded me of how much she has grown. When we first met she was a tiny pudgy 5 year old just about to turn 6 and now my sweet girl is 10!!!

Of course Josiah threw a fit when we told him he could not stand by the stove like sister because he was too small. He cried & cried feeling so insulted that we had told our "big" boy he was too small. He just couldn't understand "why". (sweet baby boy - He will learn soon) :~)

Kakie was so proud when grandma came for dinner and Daddy & Grandma kept getting second servings of her rice. She was telling Grandma step by step how she had made the rice, ingredient by ingredient!

Well I better get going we have to get ready for church. & then we are going to the cemetery too. We are hoping to take pictures with Kakie home for this months anniversary of brothers 4 month b-day.

Our Sweet Girl IS HOME!!!!

We picked Kayla up from school yesturday & played football in the front yard as soon as we got home!!! Josiah tackled me to the ground and Daddy chased Kayla all over the yard. Josiah & Kayla were so happy to see eachother.

We also took a family trip to the library - that was fun but Josiah was trying to get all the Thomas The Train movies & was so excited to be with Kayla that we were not able to spend that much time in there. Kayla & I are still reading Heidi so we re-checked it out. but returned the movie & she picked out "how to eat fried worms" EEeeK!!!(not looking forward to watching that with her) But Steve is all proud cause she picked that movie!!! Of course Josiah got Thomas The Train.

When we got home we had sandwiches & snacks and spread out all the blankets in the living room. (OUR NEW KAYLA'S WEEKEND TRADITION) WE CAMP OUT TOGETHER IN THE LIVING ROOM!!!! We watched movies and played rumble tumble all over the living room floor and finally fell asleep :~)

Steve was laying in the middle between Kayla & Josiah. I watched them laying there cuddling and said, "Oh It's Kayla & Daddy sleeping together just like when she was a baby."
Kayla & Steve giggled and she snuggled into daddys arms so closley it was such a warming feeling.

We are all done with breakfast and getting ready to take Kayla on a girls day out!! Moriah is comming too!!!

The guys started whining about being left behind... ... ... so they are gonna tag along for a bit but we are sending them to another store when Kayla goes to Old Navy!!!

Steve & I managed to sneak into our bed at 3:00 a.m and this morning we were awaken by two wild "monkeys" jumping all over our bed.

Steve & Josiah went to the store & Kayla & I made french toast for breakfast.

OH,

B I G NEWS!!!!!

KAYLA BROUGHT HER REPORT CARD HOME

1). A 4). B+ and 1). C OUR BABY GIRL IS A 3.0 STUDENT!!!!

WAY TO GO KAKIE!!! WE LOVE YOU SWEETNESS!!