Faith Family and Friends

The Simple Life- Tuesday Tip for Simple Living

2011-05-03T22:29:00.001-05:00

The Simple Life.

Doesn't that just sound so- what is the word- simple?

I love organization. I love having an organized world- which means house, car, calendars, family- ETC. Now, I am sure my Momma would have liked for me to LOVE organization when I lived under her roof, but it did not happen. Sadly.

I really wish my daughter would be bit by the organization bug. I would prefer before she leaves my roof.

I am trying to achieve the simple life. Sigh. Geez, it seems like alot of work.

Here is my Tuesday Tip for the Simple Life.

You need to start your day with a devotion. Period. You need to begin your day with your Lord. Our family use to gather nightly for our family devotion, which is fond memories, but now we are going forty different directions and it just doesn't work for us anymore. My family needs an attitude adjustment first thing for us to get focused and centered on Jesus.

Here's what works for us: *remember, my kids are 17 and 13*

I get up before the rest of the family and have my quiet time. We are currently using the Sarah Young book- Jesus Calling. I read the devotion, look up the verses that it talks about for the day- write them on my spiral notecards, write down any prayer requests we have in our family prayer journal and then I intital it so that I have accountability. Then, as my husband and kids get up, they come to the dining room table and have their quiet time individually and initial the notecards and write their own prayer requests down. It works for us. We are meeting with Jesus first thing, we are sharing our requests so we can all pray for each other, and we have accountability.

I need Jesus first thing- in order to work towards simple living.

What do you do to work towards simple living?

Back to Blogging!

2011-05-03T10:13:00.000-05:00

I am back to blogging.

Quite simply I have missed it, but I always seem to be running short on time. Story of my life, really, but today is a new day and I have to admit that I ENJOY blogging. Basically, I enjoy talking. At least, I do a lot of talking so I must enjoy it- right?

I've been asked several times over the last few months- when will you start blogging again? So today, it starts! I am excited to announce to my 4.4 fans out there- that Faith Family and Friends is back online :))

My sisters and I have also started a blog called www.simplelivingwithsisters.com

Here's the updates:

Richard and I are still married-- somedays happily- other days...well...:) ha!

Cody is now 17 years old- and TODAY is 10 month anniversary of accident! Amazing!

Kensey Rae is 13 and need I say more? She's becoming the l

Jax is still the CUTEST minature schnauzer on the planet. Just sayin'

We still have not built the house- but hey, we have land now. Richard says we are CLOSER. Patience is not my virtue.

The kids are getting close to Summer Vacation. Hard to believe that Cody Charles Edwards- who weighed in at 8 lbs 13 oz will be a 6'1" 175 pound Senior in 4 weeks. This saddens me and makes me want to run to the kitchen to do some emotional eating.

Which brings me to my next update- Guess who is on a healthy kick again. Yes, Me. and hey, it's Tuesday- Not Monday....but do fried mushrooms count as a veggie? Cause I am headed to the inlaws to eat some mushrooms tonight. hmmmmmmmm

Until Later....

Should I introduce myself again?

2010-10-23T19:40:00.000-05:00

It's been nearly 7 months since my last post.

I would like to say that we have been just hanging out laying around- relaxing--nothing much going on, but that my friends would be a downright lie. So much has happened that I can barely focus on what and when and where!

Many of you already know that Cody was involved in a horrible accident at the Lake of the Ozarks on July 3. We had gone to the lake with some of our best friends and we went with the intention of some R&R not a helicopter ride for one.

Cody was life flighted from the LOTO to Children's Mercy Hospital and underwent about 5 hours of brain surgery to repair a skull fracture that also tore the membrane around the brain. Richard and I were unable to ride in the helicopter, we had to drive the ridiculous 3 hour drive back to Kansas City not really knowing the status of our boy.

You learn a lot about yourself when you face something like that. I found that I need a lot of work, A lot.

I was living on the power of prayer, my faith in my Lord and Savior, and coffee. It wasn't the actual crisis that I found I needed th work. I knew who to turn to, I knew where my strength needed to come from, and I knew that Jesus was with me the entire time. It was after, it is now.

I really wanted to get depressed. I fought it with everything I had-somedays I beat it and others it conquered my mind. I hurt so bad for Cody. I knew his dreams of having an awesome Junior football season were nothing more than a wish and dream. I knew we should focus on the fact that Cody had a miracle healing, and yet I couldn't get past what he had to give up, and what we had to watch him give up.

People would say to me that we should just be happy is alive. Well, that's a given, of course we were thrilled and we praised God for that, but we still had this pile of "stuff" we needed to deal with. A big pile of disappointment. Cody has handled it better than I have.

The first home game I cried like a baby. Seriously, I finally had to tell myself to grow up. I was somewhat crying happy tears that he was alive and welland wearing that jersey, and somewhat crying because he wasn't playing.

My point is this, that with both situations I had to take them to the Lord and lay them at his feet. It's just too much for me to handle.

I am learning that something, are more of a minute by minute, hour by hour, and now a day by day thing. We weren't designed to carry the load. Not even the not so heavy ones.

Blessings,
Jen

Every mother understands.....

2010-04-01T08:44:00.001-05:00

Last night, I had on my list a million things to do. You know the list...the one where even when you did something that you didn't originally have on the list- you put on the list- just so you can have the joy of marking it off...yah, that list.

I walk in the door and my lovely pooch has decided that after years of not claiming that he is a dog....has apparently decided to embrace the idea and dig through the trash can. It was lovely and unexpected and full of coffee grounds on top. Isn't that just precious?

I started a load of laundry, which by the way is so frustrating. Where does the laundry come from- and why do my children think that they need their pjs washed nightly? Ok, focus Jen focus. Well, I had a terrible time staying on task- so I texted a couple of friends and said-"we must walk the gravel"- the sunshine was calling my name. I walked over to a friend's house...not that i am counting but it was 1.4 miles there...:) and then Joan tried to kill me by thinking we should tackel some Mountain..yes, there are mountains in Missouri-or at least large hills. When I got home, I was so beat and my feet hurt so bad...yet there was my list.

I took a shower and while in there, worked out in my mind how I would get everything done. I would get supper on the grill, change out the laundry, run the vaccum--get my grocery list for Easter ready, fold a load of clothes, pay some bills, and clean the bathroom...finish dinner and get the dishes done and be in bed by 10:30- not a minute later.

As I was getting out of the shower, the phone was ringing--it was my Mom. Cindy has issues with locking her keys in the car. Sometimes, she has been known to do this twice in one day...She was at Sam's club and apparently had done it again. So, I headed to her house to get her spare and then on to Sam's.

It was so nice out that a girl must do what a girl must do....I rolled down the windows (with wet hair mind you) and blasted my radio and sang my heart out down I29. It took me back to being 16 and cruising around with friends and then ending the evening sitting on tailgates at Hardees parking lot. Except I was now in a minivan, wet hair, no make up, and I would sit at Sam's Club.

I arrive at Sam's to find my mom close to being escorted out of Sam's club because she had been there for years....(kidding Mom)I dropped off the key, and headed back home...Let the cruising resume! Wahooooo!

Arrived at home, made some shrimp stir fry on the grill...did put another load of laundry in....and skipped the rest. I felt like throwing in the towel....but then realized that would just create more laundry- so I just turned the list upside down...and ignored it....until today.

Blessings-
Jen

Enjoying the Sunshine....from a windowless office

2010-03-31T13:01:00.001-05:00

I wish I had a window in my office.

I stay tucked away in my office most of the day- really never knowing what it is doing outside-somedays this is good- others- I am totally missing out.

Today would be the "missing out."

I remember days like this- the first days of spring....the reminder that summer is around the corner- which meant NO SCHOOL...the excitement of wearing shorts to school, the Schwan man coming to both of my Grandma's houses. Our Grandma had the ice cream yummies and our Granny had chicken nuggets and corn dogs. Ahhhhh.....summer.

My cousin who is only 18 months younger than me would sit on top of the swingset slurping our ice cream and dreaming what our playhouse would be next. Jeff always wanted to make it a law office and I wanted to make it a home. We had the playhouse of all playhouses at our Grandparents farm. We mistakenly thought that a shed that was delivered from King City Lumber was our playhouse. It was for the farm. However, we had a Grandpa with a heart the size of Texas, who I think in a week, had another one delivered just for his grandkids cause he felt so bad that our little spirits were crushed. It took us about an hour to have that shed filled up with toys and ideas. Ahhhhh, summer.

I can still remember the wind in my face as we raced up and down that gravel road on our four wheelers and go-karts. The dust flying as we blazed through the farm, Grandpa yelling to SLOW DOWN, and the smell of Grandma's marigolds (and cows.)

Last week, our first real spring day, my kids loaded up on their four wheelers and headed out with the neighbors. As they pulled out and headed to the creek...I heard it....the laughter, saw the dust cloud (ok, actually it was mud flying, don't ruin my moment) and smelled the spring in the air. I took it all in. God's grace allowed me to live through the driving the four wheeler years, and now I get to experience it again-through my kids. I just stood there, with a few tears in my eyes- and thought "wow" and then I thought "oh my gosh,they are going to be a muddy mess" :)

I am a guessin' that tonight, I will hear the four wheelers, the laughter, and get to smell the country air. And if I am really lucky......God will allow me to recall a memory or two.

Blessings,
Jen

....................and yes Kensey Rae you can wear capris.....*rolling eyes* :))

Some roundtable talk....

2010-03-29T21:58:00.002-05:00

Most days we have supper together. It is something that Richard and I have always deemed important. I am sure I read somewhere that if you have supper together your kids will be smart or stay drug free or that you receive some award for mother of the year....but it's important to us and for sure it is a good time.

Tonight I tried a new recipe. Well, since I joined Weight Watchers, I have a lot of new recipes. Tonight was Skinny Mini Meatloafs. Yes, you read that right. Unfortunately, they do not make you thin, nor can you eat a dozen of them just because they are low in points. I thought about writing WW and complaining, but chose not to. :)

Tonight was no different than any other night, Cody didn't get home from FFA until 7:30 so we held dinner for him. Richard and Kensey Rae were practicing softball in the front yard. (that will be another story for another time) Where was I? I was cooking. Duh. :)

We sit down and Richard asked Cody to bless the food. My kids usually say the blessing, as Richard thinks it is important for them to "hear" themselves pray. I kinda think it is all about that Richard has used up his word quota for the day at work. Whatever, it works for us.

Our usual dinner entertainment is Kensey Rae. She tells one story after another- and somehow is the first one done eating most nights. I honestly think it is that we sit stunned that a human being can talk so fast and for so long about.....nothing. We have the typical glance around the table as if it is code for "does she ever come up for air?" But, I will say we laugh ourselves to the point of no return.

Tonight she started in on something that happened at school and somehow we ended up with her crazy dream. Now, if dreams truly only go for 15 seconds-than Houston we have a problem, cause this girl talked about her dream (according to Cody) for 11 minutes and 34 seconds. The thing was, we didn't know she had switched from real life to the dream. I felt like we were in the middle of another Dallas episode and JR wasn't really shot. I finally say, "Wait Wait Wait, what happened?" and she proceeds to tell me and Cody says, "Kens, what are you talking about?" Kensey lets out an irritated sigh, "my dream Cody!" and we are like, "Your Dream?"

*shaking head*

There is only one Kensey Rae, and she is ours. You can borrow her from time to time to just light up your world, but you have to give her back..(you may want to anyway) If I start drinking coffee at night, she is the reason, I need to be fully alert to listen to her stories.

Night All-

Blessings,
Jen

What a week.....

2010-03-26T10:02:00.001-05:00

I am having one of those mornings where you would rather just sleep and forget that Wal-Mart needs to be visited and pretend Sam's Club never existed. I am worn out. I am such a pansy. I worked four days this week, but I did work 41 hours in those 4 days. Give me something, here....please? Throw in a board meeting, a dodgeball tournament, a weight watcher meeting, and an entire evening devoted to cleaning the house. I told Richard that I am ready to win the lottery, he suggested in order to do that, we needed to play. Darn.

The alarm has gone off three mornings at 4:45 am. I believe that is just wrong, and I demand to know who thinks my husband needs to get up at that time. I detest mornings. I am a night owl, always have been. I can do my best projects when the sun starts to go down. I have tried to change that, but unfortunately I wake up rather hateful each morning and asking forgiveness from loved ones all before the sun decides to shine.

Last week, I was on the treadmill each morning by 5:30, this week, I stared at it at 5:30. Darn again. I can find more excuses to not get on that dreadmill, and they flow through my brain starting everyday about 3:00- which happens to be the time I leave work.

So this morning, I am just asking God, why in the world am I so tired???? Then it hit me......I haven't made a lot of time for Him this week. The random Bible verse, the ongoing prayer for dear friends in their child's health crisis, but not really time for Him. Ahhhhh, yes, where has my devotional time been this week? My house is clean, laundry is done, my desk at work looks rather amazing....and yet...once again, I do not have it all together.

I am a firm believer that if I do not spend time with my God, than it may be a bad idea to spend time with me. I know in my heart He is a priority, yet my actions this week just didn't support that theory.

I am regrouping today. Before I head to Wal-Mart and Sam's and by the hospital to see a friend.....I have a date with my Lord. Hope He likes coffee that has been reheated......

Blessings,
Jen

**I was down 4.2 pounds at WW this week** yahoooo! :)

Remember me?

2010-03-10T13:16:00.002-06:00

So, I am home today with a sick kid. Poor Cody- he is on day 4 of some crazy virus that has decided to take up residence on his head. Yes, I said "on" as in he is experiencing the worst headache he says he has ever had. Poor thing.

I stayed home today with him. It somewhat takes me back to the days when he really "needed" me. Now, I think he still needs me, not sure he realizes he still needs me, but he does. He's 16 now, somewhat a grown-up, somewhat a kid, basically the way I feel.

This grown-up stuff can just sometimes be overwhelming, can't it? I had to laugh so hard this morning, because apparently I don't have the grown up thing down yet either. I was making my bed and puttiing some laundry away and on my dresser is every book I am currently reading. (why do i start so many??)

Here's the list-

on top is the new book by Beth Moore....So Long Insecurity-you've been a bad friend to us---what a great book...chapter 7 was a little tough, it was somewhat like looking in the mirror-naked. YIKES! But Chapter 8 was starting to show God's plan and how it doesn't include insecurity. Pick up a copy- you will be blessed.

Dave Ramsey- Financial Peace Revised--ok, ok, I could have saved 20 dollars and not bought the book, but it was January and you are suppose to get things going in January-or at least I think you are-- It's a good book too--

Having a Mary Spirit-this is the Bible Study we are doing for a women's group at church- I have basically failed, I am a Martha-dang. I know I am, I have tried to change but barely get the M out and it changes from MMMMMary to MMMMMMMartha. God shakes his head, I put my head down....and move on to the next chapter. It's been good to know that I am not alone- apparently Martha is as popular as the name- Jennifer....

Finally some fun reading- a Karen Kingsbury book--second book of the First Born series--I am suppose to be done with it because I borrowed it from a friend who was going to loan it to another friend,so let's keep it quiet that it has a little dust on it.

So on those days when I ask my children, "why don't you ever learn?" Probably the most appropriate response should be, "cause you don't" but if they did that....they would be grounded and get to see first hand why I don't have it all together.....for a very long time.

I promised Kensey Rae I would make cinnamon rolls for her today and the bus will be here in a few short hours, so I better make good on my promise.

I've missed blogging and most likely the only person who will read this will be my Mom. But hey, she won't answer her phone today, so I guess at least she will know that her baby girl made her bed.

Blessings,
Jen

Can I get a do over??

2009-01-13T08:00:00.002-06:00

Ok Ok, so I am a fresh new notebook kinda girl.. I know I know.

I need to start all over again. Bummer on my progress, but Yeah that I get a fresh new notebook each day- God willing!

I started the new Beth Moore study, "Esther", last night with a group of ladies that I have traveled with on my spiritual journey for years! Each time I attend one of her studies I just get super excited!

However, last night it was more of a conviction than anything. I just want to know Him more and more, yet my priorities always put Him way down on the list. WHY?? It is so frustrating. Paul and I are on the same page--Romans 7 For I do not understand what I am doing, because I do not practice what I want to do, but I do what I hate. I think the Amen I heard was from God. Sorry Lord. Then in Romans 8 the idea is to walk in the spirit. Why oh Why can I not do that?

I have become this worrier. I think my Granny in heaven is the only one who thrilled that I am carrying on that particular family tradition. While I worry I quote 1 Peter 5:6 Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God so that He may exalt you in due time casting all your cares upon Him because He cares for you. As I recite this to myself and to my Lord-He lovingly tells me to go and grab a dictionary so that I can understand what HUMBLE means and CASTING ALL YOUR CARES, and the lovely HE CARES FOR YOU (me) :) What is my problem?

So back to Bible Study...I sat there with my brand new highlighter and the new sharpie pen (you need one, trust me) with my bottle of water-quite certain that as organized as I was that God would surely speak to me. I was ready to hear Him. I had everything ready. Good grief, I mean brand new pens! I sat intently to what Beth had to say. As I sat there I thought, good grief, I am not even worthy to be in my Lord's house with all my yuck. I was waiting for something inspiring, something that would change my life... I waited....and then my dear friend leans back and whispers in my ear.. "I am such a loser"...."did you say you are a loser or that I am a loser or that we are losers??" Well, at least I am not alone. :) Let me back up on this one. This friend of mine- well we have kindered spirits-I realize this may be a bad thing- but she has her new "study area" ready in her bedroom, bought her new pens, and brought a Starbucks--yep she was desiring a word from the Lord too. Only God could bring two women like that together....and I am sure He laughed while He did it too! Anyway..

My prayer is that I will learn to love me, learn that I should love being a woman, learn to love that all of my mistakes and shortcomings are an opportunity for my testimony to grow, for my witness to give Glory, learn that my mistakes in life can bring God glory, learn that the laundry piled up is proof that I have healthy active kids, learn that the dinner I prepare each night is for my family is such an honor,(I am struggling how to glorify God at Wal-Mart, but hey, I am hoping to learn that too) to learn that my God desires ALL of me, to learn that friends like I have are a treasure, to learn that God loves me despite my yuck, and to learn that worrying is a waste of time and energy, to learn that an attitude of gratitude is not such a long shot, and to learn that forgiven means.....you are forgiven.

Wow, sounds like I need another pen and several starbucks.....

Blessings,
Jen

Delayed Reaction.....

2009-01-01T15:37:00.002-06:00

Around 5:30 on New Year's Eve my little girl came in with tears in her eyes and a hand on her tummy...yep, not the sign of celebration of a new year that I was hoping for. "Mommy, I don't feel good."

So Kensey and I sent Richard and Cody on up to the Jermain's house to bring in the new year and she and I "celebrated" together.

Funny how God works though. As I was holding her hair back so that she could, um, "celebrate"....I thought about when I was little and I dreamed of having my own family, my own little girl, my own son who of course would be the oldest, so he could protect his little sister. I thought about how good God has been to me. He has blessed me even when my blessing should have passed me by. I thought about the man I married and how he loves his God, and loves his family. So blessed. I thought about how I always so desired to have the house in the country, and here I sit. I thought about how I wanted the white fence--ok, so that's my neighbors fence, but I get to enjoy it..whatever, small detail. :-)

As I stroked her back and shed a few tears with her, I felt blessed. Blessed that our family's only real health concern is a stomach virus. I just buried a friend who left behind her husband and two boys. I have another friend who watches her son like a hawk in fear of the cancer returning. Yah, it was another life lesson--to be thankful that my only concern was my baby having the stomach flu.

My mind wondered through a small movie film that only God could have put together. The memories played in my mind all evening long. I am so thankful for family and friends. I am so thankful that I have a God who rules with a firm hand and a heart full of grace.

I went to bed holding that eleven year old baby girl as tight as I did the night I brought her home for the first time. She'd had a very rough night, her body completely worn out, but as I cuddled up to her stroking her hair away from her face she whispered, "Mommy, I love you"....yep, Blessed.

Blessings,
Jen

Sicker than a Dog.....

2008-12-29T20:50:00.004-06:00

Where did that phrase come from anyway?

The top 10 things I learned during the Edwards tummy flu....

1. Three bathrooms in our house is not enough.

2. I am by far the worst patient known to man, NOT my husband or son.

3. The aroma of a sick house is not pleasant.

4. Kensey Rae enjoyed being the only healthy one in the basement where she was able to have the wii, computer, tv, and all the snacks she so desired, because nobody could tell her no.

5. That I can still crawl....(did many times cause I could not walk to "the room")

6. That I still very much need my Mommy to hold my hair back when I throw up. (but she was at home being sick herself so I had to use a pony tail holder)

7. Lysol may be a flu killer, but it stinks.

8. Ice chips can hit the spot.

9. You can actually moan in harmony with other people.

10. Laundry is never done.

Oh! and a prayer was answered...I just kept asking God to save Kensey Rae from this, primarily because there was NOBODY who could take care of her! AND HE DID!! Praise His Name!

We survived!!

Looking for God's Handywork....

2008-11-23T13:01:00.004-06:00

Our sunday school class was fairly deep today. We laughed a lot, but it also made me think.

When you are in the midst of a trial or in the midst of pain, it is so difficult to see God. Isn't it easy to just forget that God is part of the trials? As long as God is working "our" plan we praise Him, but the minute things go off our plan we think God forgot us or that He isn't around, but He so is!

I can't tell you how many times Richard and I have walked through the ugly....or crawled through it-only to receive countless blessings on the other side. I have also learned that God may be a little bit smarter than this ole country girl!

A few years ago I received an email from a woman who had buried her child as a result of a car accident, and in the email she told me how she learned that Blessed is His Name in the good times and the bad times. She leaned on that song through her sadness and through her journey of finding her Joy in Christ again. I still have that email. I cannot imagine the pain of losing one of my children. My heart aches and my eyes fill with tears at the very thought! I read that email from time to time, and just pray for her. She is such a witness of finding God in the storm.

Most of the time, I see God's handy work AFTER the storm when I am safe and sound again. My attitude must be that I seek God before, during, and after the storm. My prayer is that my eyes will be open to see Him.

I am so thankful for moments like this morning, when I can be reminded that God is very much at work in my life every minute--every minute. Wow, how cool is that?

The Day After.....

2008-11-05T15:52:00.003-06:00

I won't pretend, I am disappointed.

I wanted the McCain/Palin ticket to win. I don't always totally agree with John McCain, but I am more closely aligned to his views than I am to Obama's. I am a conservative to the very thread of my being. I believe in truth and I still believe that the ideals of the conservative party are closely related to those of God's Word. (AND I LOVE SARAH PALIN!!!)

However....

I am not sure that we as a party have stood for those values like I think we once did. It has been a difficult 8 years, there is no doubt. I think President Bush has made some big mistakes, but I also think he has been put in a position that is an overwhelming situation. He has had to deal with many crisis that most Presidents in history have not dealt with. I haven't walked in his shoes...

With that being said...I am so sick of hearing, "America will now finally be a leader in the world"...or "our only hope is in Obama"...we are so spoiled as a country that we certainly hae no clue that we have it waaaaaaaaaaay better than the rest of the world. I am so tired of it being portrayed that this country is so incredibly broken. The headlines read about how the American People are broke and then right below it such and such movie has grossed 10 million plus. That is not broke!! WE need to realize that the United States is a darn good place to live and we need to start appreciating it!

Our economy is hurting right now, but is it all about our government? Didn't some of us make poor financial decisions to get us in this mess? I mean we have to take responsibility. The whole idea of pass the buck is so immature and I am sick of it. Every bad thing that has happened to you is not President Bush's fault, it is not the Republican Party's fault, it is not the government's fault. I hope those who say that Obama is Hope, finds their hope first in Jesus Christ and the Lord of Lords. To put so much "hope" in a mere human is dangerous and risky.

However...

With THAT being said...I will respect the position that Mr. Obama holds. I will continue to pray for my country. I will continue to pray that God's Grace flows upon this nation. I find Hope in the Lord, and I find Hope in knowing that He is very much on his throne.

My prayer is that giving to the needy doesn't become a government mandate, but that as Christians we find the calling to spread the love of Jesus, feed the hungry, clothe those who are in need, and show them Hope in Jesus is truly all we have.

Blessings to our Country,
Jen

The Durnin Boys...

2008-10-21T13:52:00.006-05:00

Jill borrowed my camera so I have to share...they are so stinking cute!!!

Cody's first debate tournament!

2008-10-21T13:42:00.003-05:00

My son woke up that morning at 5:00 to meet the bus at 6:00. He was sooooo not excited about his first debate. He was SCARED to death! Of course he says he wasn't scared, just "tired". He wasn't ever going to take "this stupid class again!" He had only learned 7 hours before that he had to "fill in" for another student for a dual debate about "nuclear energy" (what is that anyway?) with one of his best friends. I think Cody was a little less than excited about that. He had prepared for his "real" entry of Humerous Interpretation of James Bond. :) I mean where else can you mix James Bond and nuclear energy?

He took fourth (out of 40) in his interpreatation of James....and took FIRST in his debate about nuclear energy. His partner, Gabe, was the one that carried them. Cod said he was merely playing a "supportive role, cause Gabe had it under control!" WE were impressed anyway! :~)

The Three Amigos....

2008-10-21T13:39:00.005-05:00

Kensey Rae's friends Hannah and Rhegan have been inseperable this school year. They walk daily to Hannah's house. (Where Sheryl has a snack, drink and fun planned. She is the Beaver Cleaver Mom. :~) A great escape for Kensey Rae!! HA!) They hang out until I get off work- about 30 minutes or so. They are so stinking cute together. If only we could bottle this time in their lives--it is just going too fast!

We have a driver.....

2008-10-21T13:31:00.003-05:00

Our month started out with Cody turning 15! He now has his driving permit. I will spare you from hearing ALL of the stories, but of course I must let you in on a few.....First of all the first two days of his driving career could be wrapped up with one word...ok maybe more than one word..."WHAT ARE YOU DOING???" The first week he went 45 MPH--that would be 45 MPH frontwords, backwords, turns and all...:~) He is MUCH better now! We may survive after all. He was taking the turn onto our road at a lovely 22 mph--I wasn't ok with that--so I yelled, screamed, cried, etc....and he instantly was mad at me. "I was being a Drama Mama" Whatever. But then Kensey Rae piped in and says, "Hello, precious cargo in the backseat, please handle with care.: Probably not the thing to say....:~) However, if you meet us now it is safe, just don't honk and startle him...PLEASE!

more details to come....

2008-10-06T15:50:00.001-05:00

but Cody received his driving permit today.....pick yourself up off the floor.....and for goodness sake stay out of his way!!

Out of the mouths of babes....

2008-09-26T06:29:00.002-05:00

Ok, no insight here, no big revelation that God has shown me. No big lesson that I have learned the hard way....just a post of laughs!!

Last night we were getting ready for our garage sale. (yes, we decided to have a garage sale on Tuesday for this Friday and Saturday--love when we do that) Anyway, Kam and Kade wanted to come out to my house to see the new kitty. (we are the dumping ground for stray animals in these parts)

So, we went to pick up Kensey Rae from school, and head out to see Isabellla the kitty. Kam brought along a book of all of his friends from preschool. (such a great idea..pictures in a ziploc bag bound together with the three rings so it is a "book")

Well, while we were waiting for Kensey Rae- we looked at the pictures. I asked Kam, "which one is your friend?" He replied, "aunt jen jen, they are all my friends!" I said, "well, which one do you like the most--like your best buddy kind of thing?" While he was thinking Kade pipes up, "Jen Jen, I like the girls. I like to kiss the girls" He is 2 1/2. I said, "Kade, you kiss the girls?" He smiles from ear to ear (you just have to see that smile) anyway, he says, "Jen Jen, I love to kiss girls" I was cracking up.

He proceeds to show me how he kisses the girls. Of course, he has never actually kissed a girl except for his momma, nannas, and aunties and a few cousins here and there, but to hear him talk...... So it starts early, the over exaggerating of "how many girls you have kissed"...hope he doesn't take up fishing..I hear those stories get carried away too!!

So, of course I was curious. "Kam, do you like to kiss girls?" I couldn't wait to hear the answer. Kam doesn't think girls can do anything. He is basically a male chauvinist pig. (But a darn cute one!) I waited for the answer. "Jen Jen I will never kiss girls, I don't like girls, they are gross. I guess I would have to kiss a boy"
Well, I had my answer. :~) BUT, then he says.."I like Izzie's curls".....ahhhh, very reluctantly my little nephew is discovering, girls aren't quite as gross as he first thought.

Have a good one!

Blessings,
Jen

I proudly display my button...

2008-09-25T12:34:00.007-05:00

The last few Mondays I have worn my button with Cody's football picture on it. I wear it proudly. Although, he looks so mean and tough in it, and of course I know the truth, he is a Momma's boy. Don't tell him I told you, but he cuddles with me nightly and gives me a sweet kiss when he goes to bed. (I am wondering if MU offers dorms for parents to move in with their kids???Go Tigers!) :~)

Back to the button...

I wear it with the sense of pride that every parent has for their kids. You see, my kid is an overcomer. He was diagnosed 3 1/2 years ago with Growth Hormone Deficiency. He has been one of the smallest kids in his class since he was 7 years old. When he was 11 1/2 he weighed in at 62 pounds and 4'5". He is now nearly 15 (October 1) and weighs in at 106 and 5'4". I think with his pads he hit 110...HOLY COW bring on the party! He has never let that stop his desire to do anything. He loved football too much to believe the people along the way who thought he wasn't big enough, fast enough, able to catch a pass and gain enough yards, big enough to stop the other team....whatever it was, he didn't buy it. I am so thankful that didn't buy into the lie.

He believes more in himself than some of the people he has come into contact with along his journey. He is made of steel. Love that kid. Anyway, I wear this button to shout to the world, THIS IS MY KID AND I AM SOOOOO PROUD, IN LOVE WITH, ADORE, CHERISH, BELIEVE IN, and TOTALLY LAY CLAIM TO...this is MY KID!. A couple of people have made comments about my button. It always seems to get noticed. I can't understand it with me being so shy and all. :~)

Which leads me to the point....are you wearing God's button? If you are a God lovin, Bible Readin', Church goin' Christian, you my friend are wearing the button. We must be so aware that every minute of everyday our button is being viewed by so many, some who appreciate it and admire it, and others who want to see WHY you are wearing the button. Without grace we don't deserve to wear the button, but there is no greater truth than the fact that we are worthy of wearing the button. Worthy because of what Jesus did on that cross. Put on your button friends. We have something to be in awe about...DISPLAY IT and be accountable for it!

My hope and prayer is that while God wears his button of this girl, and let me tell you God is wearing our button. He is so in love with us. He adores us and cherishes us because we are wonderfully made (Psalm 139) If he can wear my button--from the girl who has messed up more times than she cares to count, and who has been pulled out of the pit more than she cares to count, and has asked for second, third, fourth etc. chances....he will wear your button too. All you have to do is ask Him.

There were several times that I believed the lie that I wasn't worthy to wear God's button, nor was I worthy enough to ask Him to wear mine. I bought into the lie. I wish I had the mindset Cody has, but I really don't. I not only bought into the lie, but tried to sell it too. My eyes were opened a few years ago that my life has been redeemed, I am not my mistakes of the past, but those mistakes I made have also made me grow into the person I am today. God is incapable of lying. His word says that All have fallen short (Romans 6:23)..and friends, we are the ALL, but His word also says, WHILE we were stil sinners Christ died for us. He knew how we were and he still proudly displayed your button. You are worthy. Never buy into the lie that you are not worthy! EVERY drop of blood on that cross screams, YOU ARE WORTHY...NOT because of who we are, but because of who HE is! Amen and Amen.

Well, I guess I need to go polish my button!

Blessings,
Jen

Gotta love the time to think while driving....

2008-09-23T21:07:00.002-05:00

I drove down to my sister's house tonight. Bryce has class on Tuesday nights and so it is a great time to be Aunt Jen Jen, but also to give my sister some much needed adult conversation. Jo came over tonight too, she turned 25 yesterday and might I add has grown in wisdom overnight! :~)

On the way home, Kensey Rae fell asleep which left me and the radio. I was listening to my beloved K-LOVE radio station and praising the Lord through song....granted those of you who know me well, know that my singing will only be considered praise when I enter heaven's gates. However, tonight, as the lightening was striking all around me I just relished in the power of my God. How amazing He is-how thankful that I have been forgiven--and simply put I just stand in awe of Him.

How appropriate it is to sing I will praise you in this storm as a storm rolls in. So often in my life I have cursed the storm..(both life storms and the actual send me to my basement storms) :~) I hated going through the storms of life, they can be so dark and scary. When you are in the midst of one, you feel alone, terrified, and worn out! There is no way that I would have the faith I have today if I had not weathered some of those storms. There is no way I would be able to have grown on my own the way the storm forced me to grow. I am just too lazy to do that.

I have to remind myself that storms are opportunities to relinquish my power and authority and to come under the grace and protection of my Lord. My dear friends, there is no better shelter.

So, Lord, I will praise you in the storm.....forever and always. However, if it brings thunder and lightening I might possibly be praising you in the basement with my flashlight and bottled water. Yes, I am that kind of pansy..

Blessings,
Jen

So Behind the Times.....

2008-09-23T11:36:00.002-05:00

I am doing a little work on my blog...thanks to my darling niece whom I am sure is pulling her hair out teaching me!! :~)

Please bare with me....

The Battlefield of the Mind....

2008-09-04T07:55:00.002-05:00

I went to an additional Bible Study last night....yes that makes two this week. I should probably find another one for tonight to go to....

Hello, my name is Jennifer and I am a sinner. (and apparently a slow learner as well) :~)

So, I am joining this Bible Study group for the first time. This group of ladies is from the Rosendale Christian Church and for the most part a group of ladies who are somewhat reserved. You can imagine their shock when I came onto the scene. Bless their hearts. I even said, "Lord, shut my mouth tonight, I haven't even read the material they are talking about, sit me down and shut me up."

This is the part that I say, "HELLO GOD DID YOU NOT HEAR ME LAST NIGHT??" :~)

I talked- big shocker I know. Why do I talk so much? Now if you can answer that question there is about 25 teachers or so that would love to be let in on the answer!

Who could not talk about this though, seriously? The Battlefield of the Mind.
Buckle your seatbelts cause I have some things to say. :)

We were discussing how in order to change your life you have to change the way you think. How do you change the way you think? You have to think God's Way. How does one think God's way? They must be filled with God..bring on the Holy Spirit. How does one receive the Holy Spirit? They must ask Jesus to be Lord and Savior of their life by believing that He died on the cross and rose again. What in addition to the Holy Spirit must we need to do? WE NEED TO READ GOD'S WORD. Period. But we also need to practice what He teaches.

We need to be filled with the Spirit and we need to know and practice God's Word.

We went on to discuss the Israelites and forgive me for my frankness, but geez louise, could they be any more negative and forgetful? As one of my fellow sisters in Christ said, "good grief they witnessed the miracles for themselves with their own eyes-they didn't read about the Red Sea parting, they watched it" I sat there agreeing, Yah, what a bunch of idiots. (See Richard is rubbing off on me)

Then it hit me. (This part I did share a little, but I was somewhat reserved cause, it was my first time and all) :)Are we not just like them? Doesn't God deliver us from troubles, answer our prayers, save our necks over and over again? And uh, don't we just forget about it as time goes on?

Don't you know someone who may have been healed from something such as cancer, heart problems, or a serious illness? I mean don't we all know someone, or maybe we are that someone. Have we not witnessed miracle after miracle and yet we are luke warm in our faith? WE doubt what God can do. Give me a break. What about when a loved one who has a heart of stone actually realize that their Jesus loves them and they completely change their life. Is that not a miracle? What about when a tornado picks up your friend's house and tears it apart and throws them yards and yards from the house, but spares their life. How could you not praise our God? The biggest miracle I have ever witnessed is the birth of my own children. My goodness, I assisted God with that miracle. (and let me tell you I paid my dues) :~)

God is all around us. He delivers us daily. We should be on fire! We should want to tell everyone about our God!!!

Like this morning, Cody was delivered. He had no idea that on the fourth time I went in to wake him up that his very life was in danger. God saved him. Did he rejoice? I will have to ask him that later...:~)

My point is that we have witnessed miracles. Maybe we didn't see the Red Sea part, but I had a friend (Tausha) who beat cancer. A cancer that had a grim diagnosis. God was bigger than that diagnosis. She wasn't suppose to have kids....and now she has two. I watched a grown man who I can honestly say that I have prayed for-for at least 15 years, come to Christ. Ask Heather and David if they believe in miracles. Ask Teri if she believes God has a purpose for her life-apparently-He picked her up out of the rubble that was once her house, and planted her firmly on the ground. Ask my siblings, our Dad found his way back to the Lord months before he passed. Ask me, if there was ever a person who lived in the pit of life, it was me. He has taken a terrified little girl and turned her into....ok, never mind, bad example..but you get what I am saying. :~)

WE have a lot to get excited about! Ya know, it has been said that a new Chrisitan should be put in a closet and locked up until their newness and excitement wears off and they are bearable to be around...well I say let them out! Goodness, pass some of that excitement around. Our God reigns! He LIVES! He is GREATER than this world! PEOPLE-IT GETS BETTER THAN THIS-PRAISE GOD!!

Why do we stay in the wilderness wondering around?

The Isaraelites didn't make good time on their journey. (they apparently weren't riding with a guy like Richard, anyway..) They stretched out a 11-14 day trip into 40 years. They were lost in their own world of negativity and apparently had forgotten what God had already done for them and had promised to do for them.

We cannot forget what God has promised us. He nailed down that promise right through the palm of Jesus' hands. He loves us more than we can imagine. He is willing and capable of doing great things. He is bigger than any disease, any problem, any storm....do you know that? I don't mean do you know it, I mean do you believe it? Believe it my dear friends. Let that sink into your hearts, and let it fill your mind!

Change your way of thinkin' cause we don't have time for stinkin' thinkin'-we just don't. The time is near and it is now. Dust yourself off, ask for a fresh dose of the Holy Spirit, read His word, and just do it. The battle is on with Satan....we win in the end no doubt....but right now, it is the Battlefield of the Mind.....

Blessings,
Jen

The issue with security...

2008-09-02T08:02:00.004-05:00

My latest Bible Study has me thinking...lots of thinking. My small group is doing the study, No other gods, and it has been very thought provoking. Our group met last night and boy did I have a million questions to throw out there. (I know deep down they love it when I come to Bible study with my questions highlighted) :~)

Did you know you can make fear a god? Well, actually the author wrote that fear is a symptom of a god. (lower case g as in not our GOD, but a god- we had some confusion about that last night) :~)

I have lived in fear for most of my life. In fact, I think I have struggled with security all of my life. I wish I could pin point a time when that lack of security actually started, but I can't. I even recall taking my little sister who was probably 2 at the time, and I was probably around 7-8 and wrapping her up in my blanket and saying, "sissy you are safe in here"--very odd. I had all kinds of love around me when I was growing up, so when did the insecurity set in?

I am one of those book readers that has a library of "self help" books all written by Christian authors. I mean seriously, it is ridiculous. I have a zillion books, although I have started in the last year giving them away. They feel more like "dead weight" than they do helpful at this point. However, the common theme is the same. Women in general have security issues. We want to feel safe. I think sometimes the desire to feel safe is uniquely blended with love. Somehow we began to equate love and security. Our group last night had the same issues. What's funny, is that I thought I was alone in that pit. Apparently, I have lots of company.

I think my insecurity has brought on decisions in my life that I have been blessed by and decisions that have taken me down the path of "consequences"--love that word. Anyway, it hit me last night that my problem with security is that as an adult I try to "create" security for my family.

What on earth do I mean by that?

Enter issue #2...perfectionist. This is a unique trait that I directly inherited from my Father's side of the family. One grandma's house we could blow up eggs in the microwave to "see what would happen" and the other grandma's house we took our shoes off at the door...get the picture? Guess which side was fun...and now guess which side I take after. (my poor children and husband) :~)

Anyway back to my flaws.

For me, the sense of security that I so desire to give to my kids has this image with it. Follow me here and put on your boots, it is about to get deep. This image of security has a mother who does everything..PTO,church ministries,community events,is the best daughter, is the best friend, is the best wife, is the best mother, is the best cook, creates the best home...etc....Why does that look safe to me? I don't know. But the idea here is that "I am in control." My intentions were so good. I wanted to create a safe environment. I think most Mom's feel this way. There were/are times I would love on my kids so much during the day that they went to bed wet from my kisses. I am a touchy feely kind of person. I would imagine I tell my kids I love them at least 10-15 times a day. I want them to KNOW that they are loved and safe! Richard and I probably talk on the phone an average of three times a day during our "working hours" :~) and we always end the conversation with "I love you." Richard says to me everyday.."have I told you how much I love you today?"

A person with that, should feel loved and safe. Right?

Over the last few months with last night being the cherry on the top, I realized truth. The truth is that my Lord Jesus Christ is my security. He is unchanging. He loves me for the person I am with my flaws, my yuck, my disappointments, my "issues", my imperfect way of life, He just loves me.

He isn't going to look at me and say, "you aren't good enough" He isn't going to say to me, "I am leaving because I just don't love you anymore". He isn't going to look at me and think "what a disappointment you are" cause He knows my heart and my intentions. He isn't going to say I will love you more if you accomplish....I am safe in His arms and that the picture of security is that He has my life, and I don't have to manipulate it, I don't have to worry about it, I just have to surrender to it.

(I surrender all begins to play in the background of this blog) :~)

What a relief! I can tell you that God isn't going to just "release me of my ways", I am going to have to walk through this one. I am going to have to "weather the storm" of life and learn this one with Him by my side. But the good news is that I understand His language and I see His footprints.

He has gently reminded me that my kids know that I adore them. He has gently reminded me that my husband is a good man and is not going to leave. He has not quite as gently--reminded me that He is in control and that He is God, not me. (Really??) :~)

Satan's plan to destroy me through my lack of security is over. When 1 Peter 5:8 says he roams around like a lion looking for something or SOMEONE to devour, I know that I am protected. I choose Jesus's security. I choose the cross. I choose the truth that fear and worry no longer control me, they no longer are welcome at my table.

I also know that there will be times when it feels like my security is GONE with the wind..and those are the times that I will be reminded (by some of you I know) that my security is not of this world, it is in my God.

Does anybody need a book on..let's see...on losing weight, saving money, of course books on safe and security, on mariage, on parenting....on how to study your bible (my personal fave, let me save you $12.95--do you want to know how to study your Bible????......open it up and read it) :~)

Blessings,
Jen

Who Knew?

2008-08-30T16:51:00.002-05:00

I guess you can pray for the humidity to cease. :~) It is a wonderful 79 degrees in Northwest Missouri!!

Although, my hair must not realize it.....Bummer!

Bad Bad hair day....

2008-08-28T21:27:00.003-05:00

The humidity must come to an end soon-my hair cannot take it anymore. Richard, my tightwad husband, I mean my blessing of a man, :~) has turned off the air so that we can replenish the savings account from our 2 vacations. I knew it would come back to bite me that we took 2 vacations. Grrrrrr :)

Anyway, back to my hair. The 80's were good to me. I had great 80's hair. Apparently, my hair is a month early for homecoming and for 80's day. It is so big right now with the humidity. I walked into work and said, "I know I know, my hair is rather large today" My coworkers praised my hair and said that they love it like that.

Now mind you, 4 of them were 80's children too. They are stuck, I am stuck....when will that style come back again????

So today, because our AC is turned off. More of the same, except this time it was Kensey Rae who said, "wow mom!" I played dumb. "What sweetie?" As her eyes scanned my hair, I just got a "uh, nothing, are you ready to leave for school?"

Good thing my ego was crushed years ago.

Do you think it sounds a little selfish to ask God for a break so I can have cute hair tomorrow and my makeup won't sweat off before I actually arrive at work?

Let us pray...........

Blessings,
Jen

Richard has a new phone...

2008-08-26T20:12:00.004-05:00

Richard now has a blackberry phone. Yes, the world is coming to an end very soon. I keep reading the Word-looking for signs. I think Richard getting a blackberry is a sign the world is ending soon-it has to be.

He is driving me crazy with it. He can now text very fast and is really proud of himself. He called me 6 times at work today and sent me 3 text messages. (I am rolling my eyes here)

Now, there have been days that I have called him because I need to know something important or need him to run one of the kids here or there--and I get the "Babe, I am working right now, can I call you back?" But not today. Today, he had plenty of time on his hands. Oh yes, he was working, but he was playing a lot too.

He is getting all high and mighty with the fact that his new job requires him to be savvy with his texting and computer. They have created a monster that I have to live with.

What? You think it isn't that bad? I will leave you with this.

Text #1 Hey Babe what r u up to?
Text #2 You're Hot
Text #3 R U ignoring me?

Enough said. :~)

But, I still am head over hills in love with my guy.

Blessings,
Jen

Ponder the Thought....

2008-08-25T08:43:00.004-05:00

Have you ever noticed how loud this world is? Lately, I have felt like it's louder than normal. Normal, now there is a funny word. What is normal anyway? The world likes to tell us that normal is anything goes and whatever makes you happy. Haven't we all bought into that concept a time or two....a day?

I always get sappy at the beginning of the school year. I think about how much time I have left with my kids before they graduate and move on, I think about have I taught them morals, have I spent quality time with them, have I made them feel loved, have I taught them that just because the world goes one way, doesn't mean that is the right way. I know this conversation could head down a deep path.

I was thinking about how hard it is to really be a kid now. The world is loud. Things that used to be the exception are becoming the rule. Black and White issues are now replaced with the lovely dull color of gray. The idea of serving others has been replaced with serving self first. The grass that wasn't greener on the other side, looks green. (keyword is LOOKS) What used to scare us, now invites us. It is a tough world, but it also brings tough consequences. I am not sure we always understand that the consequences can last longer than a day, sometimes they last a lifetime.

We have to surround our kiddos in prayer every morning. We have to turn them over to God each day and thank Him for being louder than the world. Praise His name that his black and white will always be black and white, his grass is green on this side of the fence, and that unlike our enemy who prowls around looking for someone to devour-He wraps His loving arms around us.

Will our kids still mess up? Will we still mess up?

Yes and Yes. The beauty of my God is that His mercy and grace extend from one end of the cross to the other. Praise His Holy name!

I completely understand Paul when he writes in Romans 7 about how he knows what he should do, so why does he keep doing what he shouldn't do? I can hear his frustration and appreciate it. However later in chapter 8 he also is reminded that his sinful nature used to have control over him, but now he is controlled by the spirit.

I pray our kids (and us) are controlled by the Holy Spirit. However, we also must realize that this just doesn't "happen"--it must be taught, practiced, and be WHO we are.

Parenting is tough work, and being a kid is no walk in the park.

Kensey Rae's 11th Birthday party

2008-08-25T08:24:00.009-05:00

Well, the birthday list has been hanging on the fridge for about a month. I have stared at it daily. First on the list, a pet turtle. Yes, a pet turtle. She has this fascination with turtles. I guess that probably started around 2 years ago, maybe 3 years ago. Anyway, I thought, well, if she really wants a turtle, I guess I will get her a turtle. I went to Petco, and found the sand turtle she has so desired. I also found the price tag. Do you know what a turtle costs these days? The pet turtle sells for a small price of $90.00. Yes, for $90 you can purchase a turtle. NOW WAIT, you must also get the "set up" for the turtle. The employee explained to me what we would need, the care for the turtle, and that for around $325 I could have everything I need. Excuse me, did the price of turtles go up with the price of gas? I smiled at the clerk, whom I am assuming thought she had an easy sale, and said politely, "I believe I will have to think about that for a while." Forget it! Kensey Rae, we have turtles in the pond, name em' and they are all yours. :~)

Kensey Rae's 11th Birthday Party with her Friends

2008-08-22T23:36:00.013-05:00

Kensey Rae is celebrating her day a little early with friends this weekend. She has some of the cutest girls as friends. I picked them all up around 4 tonight and we came home and had pizza-and waited for Jo to arrive. Richard and Cody went to the football Jamboree. So it was an all out girls night IN!

The girls knew we had a special game to play with them, but they didn't know what it was. Jill had called me earlier in the week and said that when her friend had turned 11, she had a "Miss America Pagent" and STILL remembers how much fun it was- so we have been planning all week on how to pull one off for Kensey Rae. We did, and it was so much fun! They had three rounds- Goofy, what they would wear to a job interview, evening gown, and talent.

They were asked who they were going to vote for...McCain won 5-0. What kind of animal best describes them.....where they would be when they were 25.....which celebrity they would be.....what life lessons they have learned.....lots of laughs!!

I think Mom, Jo, and I had the most fun! It was a great time. Enjoy the pictures.

Blessings,
Jen

Cody with no braces!!

2008-08-20T10:01:00.000-05:00

Forever and Always my Babies....

2008-08-20T08:50:00.005-05:00

Cody First Day of Freshman Year

2008-08-20T08:47:00.001-05:00

Kensey Rae First Day of 5th Grade

2008-08-20T08:44:00.003-05:00

Homemade waffles and bacon are ready....

2008-08-20T08:40:00.002-05:00

Cody WAKE UP!!

2008-08-20T08:38:00.004-05:00

Kensey Rae...is that you...you look so Beautiful...

2008-08-20T08:28:00.004-05:00

WAKE UP KENSEY RAE!!

Hannah and Kensey Rae..

2008-08-20T08:23:00.005-05:00

Hannah and Kensey Rae started their own t.v. show...Disney hasn't contracted with them yet, but i am sure the phone will be ringing soon....

Jodi has moved again.....:~)

2008-08-20T08:06:00.005-05:00

Jo has moved again to the west side of the Plaza in Kansas City. She was recently hired by the Kansas Speedway to be the Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator. Cody cannot wait for "take your nephew to work day!" Of course, they would need to invent that day before he actually gets to do that.....sorry Cody.

Jodi's new apartment- First Floor

Everyone was blessed to get into the action

The 3D Boys...

2008-08-07T11:41:00.001-05:00

My poor sister and her husband....getting all three of them showered was a CHORE in the little bathroom in the cabin! But how cute are those boys???

Karson and Aunt Jen Jen

2008-08-07T11:36:00.003-05:00

I just love that kid! He either really really loves me or ....:)

In this picture he asked me to pick him up...melted my heart!

ESELY/EDWARDS/DURNIN Lake Trip 2008

2008-08-06T16:05:00.008-05:00

WHAT A GREAT TIME!!

We had such a great time! I am so thankful that we all can have a great vacation together. Bryce's parents came along this time too, and they were so much fun! I have to tell you that Tom can GRILL!! HOLY COW MONKEYS...we had ribs, steaks, hamburgers, brats....oh my....can I just say HEAVEN? :)

Mom was in the kitchen each morning bright and early fixing us breakfast. I felt a little like a pampered little girl! :)

Tom and Barb celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary on August 2nd along with Richard's 40th Birthday!!

I cannot believe my man is 40. F-O-R-T-Y...wowzer. :~)

Kensey Rae learned how to water ski and of course LOVES it! Cody got up as well! WE just had a great weekend of relaxing and that is ALWAYS a good thing!

our view from our hotel

2008-07-24T21:31:00.002-05:00

...because Kensey Rae has this way of wrapping you around her finger. She did this to the Hotel Manager at the Jupiter Beach Resort....long story short...she told the manager she wanted the penthouse...we said no way....she told him she had never seen the ocean, she had played against giants all week...and she had never stayed at such a fancy hotel...he was smitten...we got the penthouse for the price of a regular room...yep that is our Kensey Rae...if she only knew.....

BEACH!!

2008-07-24T21:16:00.013-05:00

This doesn't need a lot of stories. How can you not enjoy the beach? It was the first time for the kids to see the ocean. They were amazed and instantly fell in love. Kensey Rae wants to move there and Cody says it comes in second to Colorado. He is a mountain boy. What a great three days! We were able to visit with Jeff and Jennifer (my cousins) and hang out with them. We visited a "sea turtle rescue" we saw Donald Trump's house...(HOUSE? try planet) HUGE! We just had some great family time. Awesome memories!

FINALLY...Disneyworld!!

2008-07-24T21:10:00.006-05:00

What a great day! We spent 14 hours at Disneyworld!! It was so much fun!! I think there were times I was the 5 year old little girl totally smitten by the Princesses!!

on our way to Disney.....but didn't make it

2008-07-24T21:04:00.003-05:00

John and Sheri Roster and their kiddos and our family decided to head to Disneyworld between games....well you have to understand, we headed their first on Tuesday, but had to pull over because the rain was so bad. I looked at Richard and said, "when you can't see the road, is it really a good day to actually head to disneyworld?"

I am not high maintenance. BUT EVEN I HAD NO DESIRE TO HEAD TO DISNEYWORLD IN THE RAIN.

So bring on Wednesday...

We headed with the Rosters again to the "place where dreams come true"

We were sitting at the stoplight. Sitting. Minding our own business. An idiot apparently didn't see the stoplight was RED...and slammed into the back of the Roster's vehicle. (Kensey Rae was in the back of their car.)Their vehicle pushed our vehicle about three feet forward.

Needless to say....our dream didn't come true....:~)

and the rest of the story..

2008-07-24T20:48:00.007-05:00

Well I kinda left you hanging....

We ended up losing the next two games. Kensey Rae played her heart out. I was so proud of her. As I was watching her play against girls that were just so much bigger than her I watched the Esely woman come out in her. I saw the determination of Jodi in her. Jodi played with such an intensity in high school and college. Kensey Rae sat in the stands for years desiring to be just like her, and well, she is, just like her. I watched her play smart, just so on top of her game, playing defense-not allowing her girl the opportunity to even think of scoring, she played smart like Jill. Jill played smart. She was always cool as a cucumber-in charge. The girl you know you can count on--kensey Rae was cool, smart and took charge of her defense. She was just like Jill. She smiled when her teammates did something awesome.....her smile looked just like Mom's smile. The smile that makes you want to smile too. A catchy smile. Then, came the look. Yep, the look. The look that says you have ticked me off one too many times. You have messed with the wrong girl...yep, that came from me. I knew it. I giggled. I think deep down, she knew it too. :~)

Score one for the Esely girl.

sometimes you just don't have it......

2008-07-14T19:20:00.002-05:00

We fell short tonight. We lost by 11 to a team from Maryland. We had a hard time getting the ball up the court. Their press was intense, and it just stopped us in our tracks. Kensey Rae played a good game. She certainly has stepped up her game down here, which has been awesome to watch.

The other team was coached by a girl who played for Syracuse. She towered over our coaches who are 6'3" and taller. A parent came up to us after the game and complimented Kensey Rae's intensity in her defense. That was a nice ending to a rather disappointing day.

We play tomorrow morning at 10:30. Because we are seeded third out of our pool, we have zero chance of advancing in the actual championships. We are now playing in the "classic" bracket. We have a double elimination rule beginning tomorrow.

I think we will probably head to either Disneyworld or Sea World tomorrow after the game.

Florida is hot, humid, and busy. I will never ever complain about the Missouri heat ever again. My poor hair. I cannot even tell you what it is doing. I think Annie or curly would be an understatement. Rather sad.

Day 4...and game 2.

2008-07-14T15:07:00.007-05:00

Well...we lost. We played hard. Kensey Rae played her heart out, but it just wasn't enough. Alabama got the best of us. We are playing Maryland tonight at 6:00 Eastern. I hear that it will be another tough game. Bummer. I was really proud of them though, we were down by 30 points and they never once gave up. We fought to the buzzer..and that is all you can ask out of them. Kensey Rae is number 13.

yes, they are my children....

2008-07-14T15:05:00.002-05:00

Cody's DREAM WORLD!!

2008-07-14T15:01:00.003-05:00

you know how he loves his chocolate!!

LEGO land..totally awesome!!

2008-07-14T14:59:00.002-05:00

After the game...

2008-07-14T14:53:00.007-05:00

We went to Downtown Disney World and hung out with my cousin and his wife, Jeff and Jennifer.

Day 3--First game

2008-07-14T14:47:00.002-05:00

We played the Raging Rhinos from Tennessee. I think you could consider us the underdog. We played so well!! We played as a team. Kensey Rae had an awesome game!!! She had 7 points, 9 rebounds and 7 steals! We won the game 30-27. It was a pretty tight game, so of course my camera was the last thing on my mind!! SORRY!!!!! Richard did record it, and you all will have to stop by and watch it!! (Iknow I know, you really don't care, but let me brag anyway!!) She played AWESOME!!!!!!!!

Let me back track.

2008-07-14T14:42:00.004-05:00

The beginning of day 2 we also registered as a team. This was our first glimpse of our competition. Now please remind yourself, these are 10 year old girls!! However, if your birthday fell just right, some could possibly be 12 by now...this is what we saw when we got there...yep, she is 6'1".

Night time DAY 2

2008-07-14T14:40:00.003-05:00

I just had to put this one in....Richard was worn out!!! Serious worn out!! Poor Richard!!

Night time DA

2008-07-14T14:40:00.001-05:00

Saturday--Day 2 --OPENING CEREMONY...

2008-07-14T14:29:00.009-05:00

The opening ceremony took place at Walt Disney World Wide Sports...and it was really fun! Each team was announced and "paraded" around the stadium. Our girls had a great time!! It was one of those goosebump moments! They dressed alike in their cycylone shirts and had their hair braided. The moms had gotten together previously and made flip flops, so they wore those as well. It was really really cool!! Kensey Rae was all smiles!!

The girls brought pins that had CYCLONE Basketball-St. Joseph Missouri. They traded their pins with other teams. Kensey LOVED that part. She was being very social, as you might imagine!!

Day One of Florida

2008-07-14T14:18:00.006-05:00

Day One

We headed out of KCI without any problems. Jill and Jo met us at the airport to see us off. Kensey Rae talked a mile a minute, which is nothing unusual except this time, it lasted much longer!! Another girl from our team flew out with us. Marnie and Kensey Rae talked all the way to Florida!!

Cody was eager to get the vacation started. He claimed he called window on the way down, I never heard him. So, I was a nice mother and let him have it anyway.

and we were off...

Florida Bound!

2008-07-11T11:47:00.002-05:00

...and we are off!

We have way too much luggage. I tend to pack more than I need...like will we really need snowsuits in Florida kinda thing..if we are sick at all, I have the medicine, if we have stains, I have the tide stick, if we are wrinkled, I have the Downy spray...get the picture? :~)

I will keep you all posted while we are down there..please pray for safe travel!

Blessings,
Jen

I hate the thought of packing...

2008-07-03T14:15:00.003-05:00

I am NOT a traveler.

I really love being home. I know that may come as a shock to those of you who know me, because I am rarely at home, or so it feels! However, I am ALWAYS home to sleep in my own bed. We are going to be gone for 10 days..TEN....how does one stay away from home for 10 days?

I have started writing out everything I need to take with me when we head south. I have started writing out what the kids need to take, and what Richard needs to take, and what we need to get ready for Jaxson Bo....and I have come to the conclusion that it will take about 20 suitcases. AT a rate of an extra $15.00 per bag for the first bag and a steady rate of $20.00 for the ones that follow, we should only have to pay about an extra $380.00 for luggage on the flight.

How does one pack for ten days? Good grief, what if you have to change your clothes several times a day? What if it is so hot you sweat and need a new shirt to put on, (or ketchup gets on your pants, not that I would know anything about this)...WHAT IF?

I hate being away from home.

I have always been that person who needs and desires to feel secure..safe and sound...whatever you want to call it. So I just have always loved being home.

Another problem....crowds.

Ok, I know I can talk to a brick wall, but I really don't like waiting in lines, or the dirtiness of public places. I cringe at the thought of public bathrooms at Walt Disney World...icky icky icky. I have watched way too many 20/20's that show WHAT the public bathroom, hotel rooms, and airplanes REALLY have on them....NASTY NASTY!

The other problem... I hate heat.

I just get plain grouchy when I am hot. I don't understand it, but I turn into this crazy person when I am hot. I hate it. Do you think it will be hot in Orlando in the middle of JULY?

All of this together equals one thing.. you must pray for my family, they need need need your prayers!

Luckily, we rented a condo, so we have laundry facilities there, so I can wash clothes if need be, I will take clorox wipes with me in my purse, and I will be drinking a lot of water and have a lot of pony tail holders.

The countdown to Florida--one week from tomorrow.

Blessings,
Jen

Responsibility.....and the lack thereof...

2008-07-02T14:36:00.004-05:00

Kensey Rae and I went to eat at Nancy's house Monday night. Nancy, Becky,Ginger, Renee,Maralee and Andrea were all there with the whole clan...several girls within the age of 5 and under were bouncing ALL over the place and several of the "older" cousins were playing outside as well.

Kensey Rae had planned to go home with her Aunt Ginger and spend the night, so she had brought her cellphone along. I suppose that was a good thing. She has the phone so that I can get in touch with her NO MATTER what. Right?

Apparently sometime in the evening she lost the phone.

Richard and Cody stopped by to pick us up and as I was kissing Kensey Rae good bye, she whispered, "I can't find my phone".....of course, I, the calm, rational, and positive parent said, "Well, call it"...then..."Mom, I turned it on to vibrate only." This is where I started to lose it. "Kensey Rae, why on earth would you put it on vibrate only?" Kensey Rae answered, "because I don't like my ringtone and you won't let me buy a new one."

Now this is where somebody needs to take this child aside and explain to her that it is not her right that she have a phone at the age of 10!

I said, "Kensey Rae, WHO was going to call you anyway? Everyone who calls your phone is IN THIS STINKING HOUSE!"

That is when the tears started.

So, Richard and Cody start calling the phone. We listened for vibrating noises. No luck. A few minutes pass by and Andrea and Nancy enter the room. Then Ginger enters the room. We keep calling the phone and calling the phone. No luck.

We now start tearing apart all of Nancy's furniture.

At this time there is not a cushion on any of Nancy's furniture. The younger kids are screaming in Grace's room. The dogs are helping. My temper is starting to hit the danger zone. Kensey's face has developed the "red bumps from crying".....and still no phone.

Richard calls the phone again.

Andrea and I think we hear it, so we start flipping over furniture...in the meantime I find it completely ok to tell Kensey Rae that "this is the most ridiculous thing I have EVER heard of in my entire life!" I then start in with something like "I am so embarassed that my daughter isn't any more responsible than this"....I was tired, give me a break.

Anyway, I am not sure if Cody and Nancy went outside to escape my tantrum, or if they were searching for the phone. They keep calling the phone, we keep calling the phone, heck, the phone probably keeps calling itself. IT WAS CRAZY!

Richard keeps telling Andrea and myself that we are crazy and that we DID NOT hear the phone. Of course we argued that YES, we did hear the phone.

THEN...after a lot of time has passed...we hear...WE FOUND IT!

Apparently, Kensey Rae sat it on the window ledge OUTSIDE of the living room window by the swing.(SO YES RICHARD WE DID HEAR IT VIBRATE!!) AND of course, when Nancy found it...Kensey immediatly pipes up and says, "oh yeah, I remember setting it there" (is that where a day late and a dollar short phrase came from?

I just walked over to Kensey Rae and looked her in the eye and said, "this was very irresponsible, do you realize that? You need to keep track of your stuff, or I will keep track of it for you, do you understand me? Now, you need to thank Nancy and apologize to her as well for wrecking her house looking for that stupid phone...and if you ever lose it again, it's Mine. If you forget it somewhere, it's mine. Know where your stuff is, period. Are we clear?" Sigh. It was such a good Cindy line from my younger years. I had remembered it line for line. I was proud of myself.

So, after giving hugs and kisses Richard and I left, and Kensey Rae left with her Aunt and cousins.

I made it to the car.

That is when God decided to get down to my level and look me in the eye as I had just done with my daughter. I felt His precious hands on both sides of my face as he reminded me of something very important.

I left my purse inside that stupid house.

I quietly got out of the car. I walked slowly back into the house to find everybody wondering what I was doing back so soon. I walked slowly to my purse, took a big breath and said, "yes I forgot my stupid purse, and yes she gets it from me, and I am headed home." I closed the door and I was OUTTA THERE!

Responsibility....rolling eyes.....

Blessings,
Jen

Cody's Mom reporting in...

2008-07-02T14:24:00.004-05:00

Where is the summer going? I DEMAND to know!

It is flying by and I am afraid that school starts NEXT MONTH! Double Ugh.

I need to know an answer to a question. I have pondered on this question for about a month, and I STILL do not know the answer! HOW IN THE WORLD AM I OLD ENOUGH TO HAVE A FRESHMAN?

I am too young, right?

Wasn't it just yesterday that I was at good ole SHS? Serioiusly. I feel like yesterday walking the halls with my 80's hair. (let me just remind you that my hair was the PERFECT 80's hair...big, CURLY, and did I mention BIG?)

Sigh.

Now, I have a son walking the halls.

Here's the thing....When I went to SHS, I was Jen Esely.....I had a name....people knew me....I walked into the weight room to get Cody last week...and the UNTHINKABLE happened to me.....I heard this..."Hey Cody's Mom....he's in the gym"...Cody's Mom? I am now just Cody's Mom.....no name...no idenity of my own...just Cody's Mom.

I am Mom, hear me roar.

So, in the meantime....Cody's Mom is running the roads with Cody and Kensey Rae....and I am smilin' about it...until I fill up my gas tank.

Blessings,
Jen

Kensey Rae with her teacher Mrs. Hines receiving the Rose Award

2008-05-29T10:39:00.001-05:00

The ROSE AWARD is when a student receives all A's all four quarters of the school year!! Way to go Kensey Rae!!

Grace's Pre-School Graduation

2008-05-29T10:35:00.002-05:00

so fun.....

Through my eyes....

2008-05-28T14:13:00.002-05:00

The month of May has been BUSY....

My mother turned (whispering...56) this month! Can you believe it? She looks so amazing for being so.....young! :~) My sisters and I took her out to lunch and a little shopping! We had the best day! My Mom is one of those woman that I strive to be like. I am not sure how she did it all. She was a single Mom with four kids, a job, she helped take care of my Grandma, PTO President, Booster Club President, APE something or other, and a million other things. She handled everything with grace... well there was a few slammed cabinets in there......and she never lost her temper....from the hours of midnight to 5 a.m.....:~) There are several things about my Mom that will forever be etched in my brain....her lipstick..bright and so Mom like....her smile...nobody has a better smile....and her LAUGH....it is one of those distinct laughs that makes you laugh! Her way of making her home feel "comfortable" and "home".....Yep, I wanna be my Mom. I wanna be her without doing.....one day she called Jill on her way down to her house to watch the boys...Mom was turning on I29 and was explaining to Jill that she was running a little late....and said, oh dang it Jill, I left my cellphone sitting on the kitchen table... I am going to have to run home and get it....Jill interrupted her and said Mom, you are talking on it.......or when she is wearing her sunglasses at night or when she can't find her reading glasses and she puts on her sunglasses.....they are reading sunglasses but still....I love ya Mom!

Cody is officially a freshman. A freshman. WHEN did that happen? He represents to me that God is so good. We started our marriage out on a hill...a very steep hill. I was eighteen. Richard was twenty four. The only thing we knew was that we loved each other. I think at our wedding there were two people who thought we would make it...Richard and myself. When we had Cody, it was as though God gave me a second chance at life. All of my life I had been fairly selfish. I was all about me. When Cody came along, he changed me. I can remember sitting for hours upon hours staring into those little eyes thinking....praying.....crying....loving.... He and Richard became my world. God blessed me with this adorable boy and I was so undeserving. Cody represents God's grace to me. I have to brag on my son...he ended his 8th grade year with straight A's. This child in the history of his school career has never received anything but A's. He has received the Citizenship Award, the Model Student Award,the Rose Award, and The High Honor Roll for Life Award. Richard and I sit amazed at his accomplishments. Our baby will be driving in October with a permit, and to that I must say....stay out of his way! :~)

Kensey Rae is going to be a fifth grader. How did my BABY GIRL grow up to be a fifth grader? Wowzer! She has just enough spunk in her to make you smile, enough life in her to make you want to live your own, enough spirit that it glows around her, and she is just plain FUNNY! I spent last Friday with her. We went shopping, had a pedicure, went and found her new shoes...(she now has over 50 pairs of shoes) and had what Kensey Rae calls a "FAB GIRLS DAY"....I kept thinking as we were laughing at the outfits she would pick out..(mine was a fearful laugh).....how awesome it is to have a daughter. I have a daughter. I have this young lady who has enough confidence in herself to be anything she wants to be, enough beauty to get people's attention...and the brains to pull it off! Did I mention that she received the Rose Award and the High Honor Roll award? Yep, she had all A's this year (and every other year before that as well)

Richard is loving his new job! I am loving his new hours! He is the most deserving man I know. I don't know why or how I was so blessed to be his wife, but I thank God daily for him! (Except when he leaves his wet towel on the bed, dirty clothes in a pile and his tea glass on the coffee table) :~)

I am so Blessed. We don't understand how blessed we are. I received an email with quote on the signature line that read....When I started counting my blessings, my whole life turned around....which prompted this post. Think about your blessings and I guarantee you.....the other stuff just goes away....

Blessings,
Jen

Is it Friday yet?

2008-05-15T09:45:00.003-05:00

IS IT??

I feel like this is one of the LONGEST weeks ever!

I think we are heading to Kansas this weekend to see Hailey and Hayden, Wyatt, Conner and Emma. It is also Wyatt's 11th birthday!!

Richard's new job is going great. He is learning how to operate a laptop....Pray for Larry....he is the guy who is responsible for helping him!! :~)

Cody is busy with finishing up his 8th grade year! He is actually on a field trip today to the NCAA Hall of Fame in Kansas City. He is lifting weights, playing golf, and playing basketball. His sense of humor is becoming more and more like Richard's--enough said on that. :~)

Kensey Rae is BUSY playing basketball and volleyball. She is my "goer" she is always ready and willing to head to the next event! She had her hair cut short last night and she LOVES it...I think it makes her look older, so the jury is still out!

I registered both kids for Church Camp this week. Cody is gone the first week in June and Kensey Rae is gone the last week in June. Cody will be going with our church and Kensey Rae is going with her cousin, Natasha, who is a member at Rosendale Christian. Kensey is so excited!! This will be her first camp!! She and Tash get along so well I can't wait to hear the stories!!

Blessings,
Jen

My ears are bleeding......

2008-05-01T09:40:00.005-05:00

Mornin'

I flipped my lid this morning. I totally lost it. If I was in the race for the mother of the year, I blew it today.

RECORDERS

Does that word make you want to cry? Kensey Rae's music class at school is currently using recorders. I have to listen to songs like Hot Cross Buns....over and over and over and over and over.

Kensey Rae is currently learning to play the song It's raining It's pouring....I am pouring and raining tears. She was nerved up on Tuesday for music class and so opted to have a few more days to practice and take her test on Thursday morning. I have listened to It's Raining It's pouring so many times over the last few days that I am quite sure I am headed to the "HAPPY FARM".....

I can't take it.

This morning she was practicing and going over it and over it so many times that I thought I was going to lose my mind. However, I contained myself all morning while we were at home. I encouraged her. (I left the room)

Anyway, she wanted to practice on the way to school. I told Cody to not critique her, as he flunked that part of music in the fourth grade as well. :~)

We head to school early as in 7:15 walking out the door, so that Kensey Rae could take her test. She started playing the recorder in the car on the way to school. At first, it just rubbed my nerves the wrong way...but I handled it. As we drove by Shady Lawn Nursing Home...I wanted to jump out of the car and beg them to take me in.....by the time we hit the bridge, I was CRAZY. When we hit the city limits...that is when it happened. I snapped.

She is terrible.

I can't really remember what all I said, but I do know that there was spit flying out of my mouth. That is never a good sign. I remember that when my Mom had the spit flying and the white foam in the corners of her mouth when I was a kid, it was best just to not say anything....THAT is where I was. I started saying you are not playing that note right, can you not hear that? Can you not put your stupid fingers over those holes and make that thing not sound like a dying cow? Can you not do that? How can you practice for hours upon hours and still stink?? I need to know that.

This all coming from a person who has been asked by choir directors at church to NOT join the church choir and to kindly lip sing hymns in the congregation.

Then, Cody chimed in.

Kenz, it goes like this (he begins to sing) It's Rain..ing.......It's Pour...ing...... I just looked at him and said, "YOU NEED TO NOT GIVE HER ADVICE CAUSE YOU DON'T HAVE A DROP OF MUSICAL TALENT EITHER!"

That rant continued past Shop and Hop and past Chuck's Auto service...and right on into the Middle School Student drop off site.

Cody, almost sheepishly, leaned over kissed me good-bye and headed into school, but not without saying..."Kenz, good luck"

I started to feel really bad.

I said, "Kenz, try it again"....WHY did I say that so close to my meltdown? I was not ready to hear it again, I knew it. I had not been to therapy, I had not had a coffee. WHAT was I thinking??

She began to play.

I closed my eyes at the stop sign. I rubbed my forehead. I did try to help my stress levels. Then I did it again......I blew. "STOP STOP STOP....oh please STOP my ears are bleeding I cannot take it anymore...put it in your bag and zip it up for Pete's Sake!!"

We arrived at Minnie Cline.

I walked her into school. I felt bad. I saw our principal and said..."Must we put the parents through the torture of listening to those recorders??" Her reply--"my daughter has been practicing in my office" She looked like she had a headache. I felt her pain. We bonded.

I waited outside the music room for the verdict.

It was a long wait. I watched child after child arrive to take over their recorder test. Most of them entered with the fear in their eyes. I knew their fear. I am sure their parents had threatened them with "you had better pass that stupid song or you are grounded for eternity" I waited and waited.

I waited some more.

As the door opened for another student to take their place in the line. I heard it. I heard it loud and clear. The dying cow. Oh my goodness it was such a cow that was in pain-lots of pain.

Kensey Rae emerged.

I said, "Well??" That is when the worst news I could ever hear came out of that child's mouth. "She wants me to practice some more"

WHAT?

I just stared at her. With tears in my eyes, I said good bye and told her to have a nice day. I walked slowly back to my car. How does one deal with such bad news? I replayed the morning in my head. Then, as if in slow motion, somewhat like the kid in Sandlot who says F-O-R-E-V-E-R.....I heard Kensey say it all over again in my mind....She wants me to practice some more.

Gulp.

I called Richard and he was very disappointed in me. He told me I had fractured her self esteem. I hurt her. Blah Blah Blah......So I responded the only way I knew how to... I must know my limits. I am not the one that should listen to her practice. I am not the one who needs to critique her and encourage her....her dad does!

Richard has a new job!! :~)

Kensey Rae's teacher is so good with the kids and puts on the best music programs EVER!! I cannot imagine the headache she must have after listening to 500 cows die all in the same week. ((((((Mrs. DeLapp))))) that is a virutal hug!

So, tonight as the thunderstorms move in.....I will be in the basement, but Richard will be upstairs listening to his darling daughter play that stupid thing..and if a tornado happens to pop up...spare the house....just take the recorder.

I am off to find some advil....

Blessings,
Jen

Aunt Jen Jen....can you please....

2008-04-30T08:18:00.005-05:00

So I had Jill's boys over the weekend, well only for one night, but I had ALL three of them. I am a Mom, I can handle anything and everything. WHAT is the big deal, Right? WRONG!! :)

Richard and I are suckers. There is no easy way to say it, but we are an easy target for these boys.

I almost feel sad for Jacob and Tyler. When they were young, they ran around with Cody, and I still very much had my "parent" hat on. So, the things they did were not funny, but probably should have been.....:~) I know we used to let Zachary rule the roost, of course that was before we had parent hats on.........and then with Ginger's kids (Wyatt, Conner, and Emma) they live so far away that we have short stays at Uncle Richard and Aunt Jen's house....and it is probably a good thing, because Emma somewhat has Uncle Richard wrapped around her finger.....and then bring on Hailey and Hayden.....I think secretly Uncle Richard knows that Hailey is the boss and therefore when she comes to town, she rules, and Aunt Jen knew it would be that way as soon as she saw the red hair........and Hayden has yet to experience Uncle Richard and Aunt Jen's house.. but I am guessing.....:~) And then there is Grace, our pseudo niece....well, she....wrapped us around her finger and tied the knot....WE have some pretty cute nieces and nephews.. if you didn't know.. just ask us!!

Anyway, back to my weekend.....I picked up the boys at McDonald's in St. Joseph from a very teary eyed sister who thought for sure that she was breaking some wonderful parent rule of sending them off for the night...WHATEVER...:~) On the way to Savannah....Kade is telling me something....like this..."Jen Jen.. Kam "something" me )($*)%*....WHAT? Aunt Jen Jen can't understand you...(this repeats about about 4 times)... Finally, Kam speaks up and says...Jen Jen, Kade is trying to tell you I called him stupid.....I nearly cracked up!

We stopped by to see Nanny at the courthouse to which Kam and Kade both thought it was hilarious to call everyone they saw...BOO_BOO....yes ...BOO BOO....they nearly laughed themselves to tears! Karson meanwhile was just smiling at everyone as the innocent child he is...:~)

We came home and it was so cold outside and drizzling.....but of course they wanted to go outside to the playhouse. Now, this is where an Aunt's perspective comes into play....We really shouldn't go outside, it is wet and cold... but they wanted to...so we loaded up with blankets and the rocking chairs from the house and headed to the playhouse....Jen Jen, Cody, Kensey Rae, and all three boys. We stayed out there for about an hour and a half when Uncle Richard arrived...so he joined us.. with Jaxson Bo. Yes, we have been suckered.. AGAIN.

I think we should all experience being an Aunt or Uncle before we are allowed to have children. It just takes the edge off. I think as parents we try to be so perfect and we feel like we have these expectations to meet...but as an Aunt and Uncle..anything goes... it is just FUN....you just take the time to play. If the house is a mess... it just means you had fun.....if the clothes are stained...it means the food was good and the grass was ripe for running.....if the face is dirty...it means you played hard all day.......

I told Richard if this is any indication as to what grandparent hood will be like....we are in trouble. Our kids will hang us from the highest ceiling and beat us like pinatas!

As the Aunt and Uncle we laugh at them when we should discipline....we let the borders of rules probably swell outside the line.....we let them eat ice cream for breakfast..(and make our kids eat oatmeal) :~).....we let them pick something up at Walmart at the checkout....we let them watch a movie over and over and over.....we let them take the cups into the living room and require our kids to stay in the kitchen.....I can't count the times we let Conner and Wyatt "relieve themselves" outside and made Cody go into the restroom or skip their vitamin that their Mom promised I would give them...Or let Emma eat cookies for breakfast..I told her not to tell her Mom......or let Zachary walk through the house after four wheelin' with mud all over him...and just cleaned it up myself cause we were so happy to have him there....poor Tyler and Jake.....they were sitting in the corner with Cody after running the four wheeler into the fence, jumping in the river with clothes on, having a water fight inside the house...would I think it was funny now??...Hailey and Grace rule but are still innocent enough that they are in the bedroom with Kensey Rae feeding their babies and finding purses to carry around while Kensey Rae does their hair and finds sparkly outfits for them to wear....and Hayden we can only imagine what he will talk us into...Kam, Kade and Karson....we won't mention to your Mom that you were jumping over the sofa this weekend...or that you watched three movies Friday night.....or that you had cookies before the pancakes were done...

Blessings,
Jen

Raining Blessings!!

2008-04-28T11:42:00.002-05:00

Hello Friends and Family-

Last week was one of those weeks when you just can't give God enough glory. We had prayer after prayer answered, just simply amazing.

We went to Children's Mercy for Cody's visit. I was very nervous about this visit. Cody has always handled his GHD with a lot of dignity and never really complained. As of late, it has changed. He is tired of getting passed up. He is tired of giving himself a shot (for the last three years) to see minimal amount of progress in his eyes. He is tired of everybody growing, and him not. Praise the Lord.. he has grown 1.2 inches and gained 6 pounds in a little over 3 months. He is finally really responding to his meds!! He is not a hair under 5'3" and weighing in at 101 pounds. He will be 15 in October. God is good! (Of course He would have still been good even if he hadn't grown) :~) Prayer request #1 answered.

We were able to see our little guy Jaxon Burns at Mercy while we were there. HE IS SO STINKING CUTE!!! www.caringbridge.org/jaxonburns He has been moved to the Ronald McDonald house and will be going HOME in a week or so!! This little guy is 3 years old, has survived cancer, two liver transplants and has a sparkle in his eyes that is just amazing. So, prayer request #2 was answered!!

Our friends, The Thomsen's, have an amazing little boy named Per who has fought two kinds of cancers. He had scans that showed everything is STABLE!! AWESOME!! So, prayer request number 3 answered. Can you believe this??

On Wednesday, Richard called me at work and said that he had been having an eventful morning. Well, I just kept typing away, because Richard's eventful is....well... boring. :~) He was offered a Plant Manager position, that entitles him to a company car, laptop,cell phone,Less hours and a pay increase!! I was nearly knocked off my chair!! This man deserves this-- when I think of all the things he has missed out on, and NEVER complained to me. He is a worker. He is the guy who has always and forever put his family first. He has always put me first. When I think about how much he has sacrificed over the years to better his family's future, to give more than he received....well, it is overwhelming. (wipes a tear)

The kids and I met him that night on the way to AWANA and he was driving his company truck...we hooted and hollered in our car as we passed him...laying on the horn.. singing God is so good....it was awesome. I had picked Cody up from school and ran him to the golf course, so he called his Dad while he was golfing....Richard thought that was cute. I told Kensey Rae when she came home from character club and unknown to me, she went to her room and called him from her cell phone.

I traveled to Jefferson City last week as well. My position with Sunshine Factory is going to be changing. Our county is taking on Target Case Management for our clients. There is a lot of details and paperwork. I am up to the challenge, I just hope my brain follows! :~)

Have a great week!!

Blessings,
Jen

Happy Birthday Hailey!!!

2008-04-07T12:44:00.005-05:00

We were unable to attend, but by the looks of it.....Hailey's 2nd birthday was a BIG hit!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY HAILEY!!!!

Sunday Sadness about March Madness

2008-03-30T18:23:00.005-05:00

Kensey Rae lost her game today on a last second shot. The Cyclones had one of those games where nothing would fall...no matter how much skill behind the shot, no matter how open we were, no matter how tough the shot, NOTHING was going in. Kensey Rae played a great game and her defense was awesome, but in the end, we were one short. She has the next weekend off and then three straight weeks of Regional Tournament. We must qualify in the month of April to go to Orlando. Since we already bought our airplane tickets.....it would be nice to qualify.:~)

Cody is still traveling home from Branson. He is supposed to arrive in the next couple of hours. I wish I could tell you he had a great time, but my lovely 14 year old did not call home all weekend. (*&$#(*&@(*$#&(#$&&@$& :~) I called him yesterday and only talked exactly 32 seconds according to my phone...it was raining and he was getting ready to ride a roller coaster....and he was going to call me back. I hope that for his sake his phone broke or an alien picked him up and took him to Mars! :)I know my lovely son wouldn't forget to call his mother!!!

We spent the weekend with Jill and the boys. (Bryce arrived home from a baseball tournament last night)The boys were fun. We built train tracks, played basketball, and read lots of books.

Well, Kensey Rae and I are headed to Wal-Mart to buy supplies for her report.

Have a GREAT week!

Blessings,
Jen

Ginger's Family

2008-03-30T16:15:00.003-05:00

I wanted to post a picture of Ginger's kids. Wyatt just went to the eye doctor to learn that he has to wear glasses...and I might say he looks quite handsome in his new pair! Don't let Emma Rae fool you with her "sweetness" in her picture, that girl is on a mission and KNOWS what she wants! :~) She is in total control, trust me, those boys are at her beck and call! :~) Conner is getting ready to celebrate his birthday in April. They are growing up so fast!!

Easter Sunday

2008-03-27T12:43:00.002-05:00

If you only new what it took to get my nephews to all look at the camera. Jill and I were doing some sort of a side show behind the camera. Fun times.... Fun times.....

What is my Problem???????

2008-03-27T09:45:00.005-05:00

Hello Friends and Family...

I am having such a ridiculous week!

Let me ramble..

We had a lovely day with family on Easter Sunday and I KNOW Mom was beaming when the entire row at church was full of all four of her kids with spouses and grandkids. She was smiling from ear to ear. I heard very little of the sermon as I was playing with Kam and Kade....I tried to keep them quiet, but they overtook me!

We had brunch at my house after church with Uncle Jim and family and then we had dinner with Uncle Tom and family in the afternoon. It was like a day long feast. I set out what portions I would eat for Easter and I did go over but only by two peanut butter eggs...I love those things...and apparently so does my nephew Kade...I found about 30 wrappers in my closet after they went home...(he is 2) Richard's Dad, Keith and his wife Nancy stopped in on their way back to Kansas. We hadn't seen them for quite a while, so that was fun!

Monday I stayed home with the kids who were on Spring Break. THANK GOD IN HEAVEN I don't stay home everyday I would weigh 500 pounds by Friday! What is my problem? Mom left her strawberry pie at my house..(and you know Mom can bake!) I am guessing that strawberry pie counts more than a fruit? Dang it all to pieces. I munched on Easter candy and a honey baked ham....

Tuesday.....do you think it is wrong to eat strawberry pie while watching the Biggest Loser? Geesh.. I felt guilty, but obviously not guilty enough...and I did have a couple of left over rolls too...I opted for no butter and only put grape jam on them...(rolling eyes)....and a peanut butter egg.....

Wednesday I woke up with the flu....(or strawberry pie overload or peanut butter egg overload)Anyway... I didn't eat all day except for some oatmeal...My Granny always said that oatmeal was a good thing to eat when your tummy is upset...I did stay away from the eggs...those evil peanut butter eggs....

Thursday-well....I ate an omelette this morning with eggs, spinach, and mushrooms...I felt healthy....only a minor headache leftover from yesterday...and then I nibbled on the whole wheat waffles that I made the kids...(does it count that they were whole wheat???) and then ate a piece of turkey bacon.. protein right? Geesh...I need to regain my control....I blame those darn peanut butter eggs from derailing my weight loss this week...I am up on the scale..and being controlled by Reeces peanut butter eggs!!

So... do you think it is ok to Pray to my Lord Jesus Christ to break the bondage of the strawberry pie..never mind it is gone......but there are STILL peanut butter eggs!!! (I actually did pray that!!) :~) I did a quick inventory of the eggs this morning....and wrote the number down....is that bondage or freedom?

Well, I must get busy..if you can't find me.. I am in the closet with Kade...and you know what....

Have a good one!

Blessings,
Jen

Holy Week.....

2008-03-20T10:30:00.003-05:00

Good Morning Friends and Family!

We are in the midst of Holy Week. It is just amazing to think of all that transpired during this week. Last night at AWANA, my 3rd and 4th grade girls were asking all sorts of questions. I was basically at the beck and mercy of our Lord to help me answer some of their deep quesitons!! (you know when you scan the room at the other adults for some help and assistance to help answer!!!) There girls are smarties and I LOVE to listen to their minds spin on concepts that I KNOW the Spirit has planted deeply within them. So awesome!!

So one of the girls last night said, "I don't understand how they could call Good Friday.. Good...good for us I guess, but not good for Jesus" Yes indeed my dear one, Good for US! When I think how that man must have felt...nailed by his limbs, beaten to a bloody pulp.....taken the heat for what I would do....telling me he loved me enough to do it....asking one last time...Father if you can take this cup.. then take it.....Don't we all understand that feeling? I will do it God, but if there is any other way... DO THAT....With that, the earth shook, and it was done. I wonder what it would have been like to witness that.

It's almost Friday... but Sunday is coming.....Amen and Amen...

March Madness!

2008-03-03T13:46:00.004-06:00

It seems unreal to believe that February 2008 is in the history books. We have experienced one of the worst winters in recent history. Northwest Missourians are sick of snow, ice, and cold temperatures. We are borderline mad, with a hint of depression! :)

We are in full swing of basketball with Kensey Rae. She is playing 2-3 tournaments per month. Cody is almost finished, THAT is a praise! We only have one kid playing there is no decision on who will go to what game! Cody is still lifting weights every M-W-F after school so he is still active, just not on the weekends!

Our nephew, Zachary, and his wife, Teresa, had their second child in February... Hayden Zachary was born a couple weeks early but completely full grown at 9 lbs! He is a cutie! Richard's sister, Tanya, went and played Grandma for a week, and his other sister, Ginger, has been updating us with photos almost daily.

Richard is working A LOT already, which means that summer will be a busy one! THAT is good in some ways, and not so great in others. He is already worn out. THAT is not good! :~)

I took on a new part time job, in addition to my full time job. I am the new 911 Coordinator for the county. It is going to be somewhat challenging, which I love. I will train for the better part of this year and then maybe on my own in 2009. I feel very blessed to have the opportunity to make some extra money that we will be putting towards medical bills for our son who seems to always have some "rare" thing occur!

Speaking of which.. Cody was back in the hospital in February for what appeared to be an appendix issue, only to find after CT scan and blood work, that he had some weird virus. (I told you!) He is still seems to be responding to his growth hormone, although it is a very slow progress. We head back to Children's Mercy this month, so we will see where we are at.

Kensey Rae had 3 inches cut off of her hair this week. She looks adorable, although somewhat grown up too. Bittersweet. She is such a crack up. I need to update a photo of her!

I am participating in a Bible Study at Church by Beth Moore called Stepping Up! I highly recommend this study! I LOVE it!! Which reminds me.. I need to get back to work, I have study tonight and I am not done with my lesson.

Hope all is well--

God's Blessings,
Jen

2008-01-30T13:03:00.001-06:00

Busy Busy Busy!!!!

2008-01-30T12:37:00.000-06:00

I am not sure that we have had a day off this month!

Kensey Rae is in full swing with her Cyclones Basketball team. She played at William Jewell in Liberty this past weekend, so we were able to stay at Jill's house. We had a great time. (I have to tell you the boys are so darn cute!) She took second place. She made high honor roll again and we are so proud of her! She has her eyes on the "rose award" at the end of the school year. The Rose Award is presented to the students who have not received anything but A's on their report card. (Cody received it and so she has her game face on!)

Cody has tournaments the month of February with his Viscosity team, since Middle School Basketball has ended. He is playing this weekend in Johnson County, Ks. He also made the high honor roll again (the child has never received anything lower than an A- in his life-we have no idea where he gets that from??) :) He is getting very active in youth at church which we are very happy with!

We will be on the go much of February with ball tournaments every weekend. BUT we will stop and celebrate on February 11th the 15th anniversary of our wedding!! It seems hard to believe that we have been married 15 years already!

New Year...Welcome 2008!

2008-01-08T13:58:00.000-06:00

We are off and running!

We had a great time with family on New Year's Eve. We did NOTHING New Year's Day except play board games and I am not sure we have rested up yet! :)

We are back in full swing of school, church, and sports. (oh yeah, and work)

Our semester ended on Friday and I am happy to report that Cody and Kensey Rae both made High Honor Roll with straight A's. Cody set a goal when he went into the First Grade that he would never get anything but A's on his report card.. and here he is an 8th grader and he has ALWAYS had straight A's! Kensey Rae has set the same goal and so far, so good! (And she has way more fun with it than Cody does!!) :~)

They both are playing A LOT of basketball, so we are either on the road or in the bleachers! Both teams are doing very well!

God has been so good to us throughout 2007, I cannot imagine what He has in store for us in 2008.

I pray your year is a Blessed One!

~sigh~Christmas is over....

2007-12-26T18:33:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas...a day late! :~)

We had a wonderful time with family and friends. Richard's Mom, Ramona, came by on the 23rd and we had a nice visit with her.

On the 24th we loaded up and headed to Liberty for my Mom's family Christmas Eve tradition with the Watson gang. The family has celebrated Christmas Eve together for 60 years.
We had a memorial table set up to honor those that have passed on from our family. It was rather touching to see the pictures of the Patriarchs of our family and recall the special memories that are so dear to our heart. We always have such a nice visit!

The 25th was a marathon day! We were awoke by two of the most adorable kids at 7:00 a.m. Kensey Rae woke up first and woke up Cody.....(imagine that!) Cody actually climbed in bed with us and Kensey Rae bounced on us! :~)

We ventured off to find what Santa brought them... well scratch that...we had to wait for Aunt Jo to arrive. She arrived around 7:30 a.m. and then we headed downstairs....but Santa didn't leave anything! We tried to tell them all year long that they better be good! :~) K-Rae was starting to get worried, so she went off to each room in a hurry to make sure that Santa hadn't forgot her! Well, hidden in a room was a trampoline box with a note saying that Santa was running behind and needed Richard's help and to look in the garage....so off we ran to the garage! :~) There was the trampoline that Kensey Rae thought she would never get!

We opened presents which included an American girl doll for K-Rae, movies, clothes, games and Mizzou items, a Savage jacket, movies, games, and clothes for Cody. We showered and headed to Aunt Deb's for Christmas brunch with Uncle Cranky (AKA as Craig, Aunt Deb, Jeff and Jennifer. Toni, Jess and Joel Osborn, and the whole Esely gang.(mom, jill and family, jo, chase)

We then headed to Mom's house for our Christmas. Kam and Kade were hilarious! Karson enjoyed the empty boxes! It was so fun to watch them get so excited. Kensey Rae made them gifts, which I must tell you were the cutest things I have ever seen. She is so awesome with the boys and they totally adore her! Jill, Jo, and I typed ALL of Mom's recipes and put them in a binder for one of our gifts. I must tell you that was the coolest reaction. Mom cried, we cried, and the guys looked at us like we were crazy. Ha!

We came home for a quick nap and then off to Francis and Sue's house for snacks and get together with Darrel, Paula, and Jordan, and Glynn and Jayne..(all Esely and Farr gang were there as well) We treasure that time together with them. Paula and Jayne were such a wonderful part of my childhood. As adults, we can visit like time has stood still for years. I love that about them.

We then came home and fell asleep. Are you tired yet? I am exhausted! :~)

Our weekend plans include watching Kam and Kade on Friday night. Bryce is having surgery on his shoulder on Friday. Kensey Rae's basketball team is sponsoring a tournament this weekened so we will be working that as well. We are also getting together with the Hughes family on Saturday for Grandma's Christmas dinner. Richard's Dad, Keith and his wife Nancy, will most likely be stopping by as well.

As always, we are running around and we just go where the calendar tells us to go. :~)

We did take the time to stop as a family and thank our Heavenly Father for the precious gift of His son. The Christmas dinners are wonderful, the food is always awesome, the company is the best... but the real reason for the season is that precious baby that was born so long ago, THAT is worthy of our praise.

May this time of year be a Blessed time for you and yours-

First week in December

2007-12-02T21:35:00.000-06:00

We just returned from a tournament in Kansas City that Kensey Rae played in--a little tough!!! She played well, and is fast asleep apparently she is worn out!

She went to a slumber party on Friday night and stayed up until 2 a.m. and then had a game at 11:00 on Saturday. She was worn out tonight after four games a slumber party.......I would be too!

Cody went to the church lock in on Friday night and stayed up all night, and was ready for bed tonight at 9:00. He has an early practice in the morning (5:30 a.m.) and then a game tomorrow night at 6:30. He is playing in a tournament in St. Joseph at the Spring Garden Middle School.

It has really turned off cold this week, so it is making it clear that old man winter is around the corner.

We have our Christmas trees up and the lights outside are up. I am done Christmas shopping and everything is wrapped and under the tree. I have to tell you that this is the first year that I have ever been on the ball like this!

Have a great week and enjoy the season!

THANKSGIVING WEEK!!

2007-11-20T10:47:00.000-06:00

I love this week! I love the idea of getting together with family and just hanging out! Our plans have been constantly changing....but here is the latest and greatest! We are having Thanksgiving at our house this year. Jodi and I are preparing the feast. We are SURE that Rachael Ray will be calling to get OUR recipes soon! Jill is having Thanksgiving with her inlaws at her house...(and Mom is going down on Wednesday to help her cook) We will eat Thanksgiving at our house and then head down to Jill's house for pie. And because we are Esely's we are having a pie contest....who can make the BEST pie??? :~) Then over to the Liberty Junior High for a FRIENDLY game of Dodgeball! :~)

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!!

Is it Monday already?

2007-11-05T11:48:00.001-06:00

We had a great weekend celebrating Grandma Hughes' 90th Birthday! It was great to see all the family again! Ginger and the kids spent the night with us on Saturday night and I am very happy to report that Ginger made it to EARLY Church service! (We had to tease her!) Nancy and Grace came out Saturday night for pizza after the big party and the girls enjoyed playing together.

Cody's football team won the championship this weekend, which ended his Bantam Football career. He is growing up so fast! Next year it will be onto Freshman football! He went to a hayride with the youth group last night and had a great time. He had to be at basketball practice this morning at 5:30 a.m. and he was none to pleased when the alarm clock went off!

Kensey Rae went to a sleepover this weekend and had a great time. She has been busy with basketball this week and that schedule will continue until July 2008, so we had better get used to it!

Richard worked Saturday, but hopefully that will becoming to an end soon as winter is around the corner which usually means no Saturday workdays. Keeping our fingers crossed!

I wanted to post the new school pictures....Cody as the "I am too cool for school" look and Kensey Rae has the "who me?" look.....:~)

Have a great week!

I had to post my little Lola from Hannah Montana!

2007-11-01T20:44:00.000-05:00

We had a great time Trick or Treating. We went with one of Kensey's BFF and they had so much fun! They are pretty cute!!

2007-10-23T14:21:00.001-05:00

On Sunday we were honored to watch Jill and Bryce dedicate baby Karson to the Lord. It was precious. Kaden slept through a good portion of it,but woke up in a wonderful mood! (THANK GOD!) Kamden heard them say in the beginning that there would be refreshments served afterwards and he was ALL about that!! Karson was full of smiles and just adorable! It was awesome to be able to be a part of it!

2007-05-14T20:23:00.000-05:00

How CUTE are those kids????