The Waller Bunch

Our Hearts!

2011-10-05T21:58:00.000-07:00

Here is our Heart project as we went through the Lesson on our Cardiovascular system in our Apologia Anatomy book. The kids loved this because they got to play with so much sugar. It really did help us see the process our blood takes through our bodies. We had to use green instead of blue to indicate the deoxygenated blood. But they understood it just the same. Each of them had to explain it to Dad when he came home for lunch. So I'm hoping they retained some of the information. Especially how complex God made our hearts and how everything functions so well together. It was fun. Now they get to " eat their hearts out" a little bit at a time.

Cannon Beach 2011

2011-07-19T23:04:00.000-07:00

Ok. I got it put together. Here are a few pictures of our time in Cannon Beach this year. This year Grandpa and Grandma Waller didn't get to come because of Grandma Carol's surgery. So we did this alone. We missed them being around but did have some great quantity and quality time together. We couldn't have asked for better weather. We only stayed 1/2 week this time and had our family photo shoot that day down at the beach. After that we headed over to Grandma and Grandpa Wilson's for a couple of days and enjoyed time with them. Now we are looking ahead to our Mexico Mission trip. Ready or not, here we go!!

Christmas Gift to Grandpa and Grandma Waller

2011-01-10T18:01:00.000-08:00

For Christmas the kids gave Grandpa and Grandma Waller a gift certificate for a Saturday morning breakfast. The servers included: Master Andrew, Sir Jon, Lady Victoria, Princess Allie and Prince James. They served: Waffles with Strawberries and whip cream, pancakes, bacon, scrambled eggs and fruit juice. They did a great job and enjoyed serving their Grandparents.

The

2011-01-09T18:24:00.000-08:00

Christmastime

2010-12-27T13:25:00.000-08:00

We prayed the weather would hold so that Grandma and Grandpa and Aunt Heather could come be with us at Christmas. God answered our prayers the way we hoped he would. On Christmas Day they arrived around noon and joined in the preparations for Christmas Dinner. You kids were extra excited because they brought their new little puppy "Buster".

Here's Aunt Heather reading with Allie

Here's Dad, Jon and James before they opened up their new book "The Scroll and the Squire"

Allie and Buster

Andrew's K'nex roller coaster that he put together after receiving the kit from Grandma and Grandpa Waller

Mom and I trying to decide what Thomas Kincade puzzle to put together. We never decided so it never got put together.

James counting to 100 for Grandma and Grandpa on the 100 number chart

A little sword dual with a couple of your stocking stuffers.

Kids dressed up Buster

After church on December 26th with both sets of Grandparents

Snow Fun

2010-12-04T09:36:00.000-08:00

Here's some pictures of our fun Snow Day! Yes, school was delayed due to snowy roads...hee....heee ;) Ok, school was delayed because I knew it was going to be a distraction if I didn't let them get out there and enjoy it some.

While we were outside enjoying the snow, Tori was inside enjoying some snow with leftover cranberry sauce from Thanksgiving.

As you can see from most of the pictures is the best thing about snow is eating it!!

2010-10-12T21:00:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to write this down before we forget this very funny moment with James. Last week we were at a funeral for an older lady in the church. As the pastor was giving a little sermon James leans over to Steve and says, "So when do they bring out the puppets?" Not sure where that all came from but the moment was priceless.

Yummy!

2010-08-26T16:01:00.001-07:00

Triple Chocolate Cookies

These were too good not to share. I had some at a friends house last night and I called her up this morning for the recipe. The kids enjoyed them and with a cup of coffee they are delish!

Triple Chocolate Cookies

2 cups flour

½ cup cocoa powder

2 t baking powder

¾ t salt

4 large eggs (I used two)

2 t vanilla

2 t instant coffee (didn’t use)

10 T unsalted butter, softened

1 ½ cups packed light brown sugar (only used 1 cup)

½ cup granulated sugar

16 ounces semisweet chocolate, melted and cooled (I used 1 cup melted choc chips)

2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (I used 1 cup)

Whisk together flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt. In separate bowl whisk eggs, vanilla, coffee, until coffee is dissolved. Beat in mixer butter and sugars, add egg mixture until incorporated. Add melted chocolate. Then slowly mix in flour mixture until combined. Stir in chocolate chips. Let stand at room temp until fudge-like in consistency, about 30 mins. Bake 10-12 mins at 350.

Happy Birthday Tori!

2010-08-11T21:54:00.001-07:00

It's been 10 years since you were born and we thank God for you. Its been fun going through all the pictures and it takes me back to my first baby girl. I loved to dress you up and you looked adorable. And that smile melted our hearts. Your determination showed early when you started to crawl at 9 months and learned to walk not long after. God will do great things in your life, I know it. We pray this next year will be full of new joys and lots of laughs as well as a love for the Lord. Only He loves you more than We do! Enjoy looking through your pictures!
~Mom

Back from the Beach

2010-08-01T22:55:00.000-07:00

We've made it back from the beach, Cannon Beach, of course! Had a blessed time of refreshing our bodies and spirit. We look forward to it every year. And this year we even squeezed in a family photo session with a photographer at the conference center, thus the new photo at the top. The last time we had a family picture taken was when James was only 5 weeks old and now he's 4. More photos to follow when our camera battery gets all charged up.

Its good to be back home. Thank you Lord for places that refresh us!

The Birthday Boy!

2010-06-29T22:51:00.000-07:00

Here is my baby turning 4! We celebrated his birthday a day early because Tori and Andrew left for Camp the next morning the actual day of his birthday. His favorite Pizza place is Doc's Pizza on the Green. You know why? ...they have a toy train there that you can ride! Go figure!

Here we are eating our favorite Pizza, salad and breadsticks!!

Andrew and James had a blast hand pumping these trains around the track.

Tori likes it likes this... ahead of everyone!

Jon

Allie girl

Gene challenged Steve to another round, just the two of them. Don't let the picture fool you, Steve's already lapped his Dad twice!!

Ice Cream cake!

Its a tradition now that I make Dutch Baby Pancakes (Puff Pancakes) for the kids' Birthday breakfasts. Here is a group picture right before Andrew and Tori left for church camp for a week. Its definitely quieter around here but we miss them bunches!!

Lately we've been:

2010-06-21T00:01:00.000-07:00

*Having a few campfires*

*Nursing four orphaned kittens*

*Going on a few Ice Cream Dates*

*Reading*

*Field trip-ping at OMSI* (They loved it!!)

*Playing with old neighbors visiting from Wisconsin*

*Saying Goodbye to our friends :( *

*Having birthday celebrations* (Jon turned 8 this year, can you guess who he "is"?)

*Making Birthday cakes and Indiana Jones*

*Enjoying 2nd Cousins from Arizona*

The summer has only begun. I'm getting tired just thinking about that! (or maybe I really should be in bed right now!)

(I love looking and reading blogs and if your are reading this one more than likely you do too. The bad thing is I start comparing myself to a lot of blogs out there. Yes, I'm not quite as computer literate as I'd like to be, but I love anything to do with pictures. Especially pictures of my own family. So, in my human state, I start comparing and I've had enough. I'm not going to listen to "him" and enjoy myself.)

Modeling Pleasing Responces

2010-02-26T16:17:00.000-08:00

For the last couple days I have been skimming through a book that I read a couple of years ago. The book is called "The Mission of Motherhood" by Sally Clarkson. The chapter that stuck out to me was The Servant Mother. And boy did I need to read this again. I find myself nagging at the kids to get this or that done and give them the "lecture" on ALL the stuff I have to do. And how too busy I am to print out a horse coloring page from the internet or whatever. Or when they say "Mom", I turn my head slowly and with a "you're bothering" me tone and say "What" as in, "Now what do you want". It didn't really come to my attention until I was reading this chapter, that there was a problem. Sally writes this sentence that has stuck with me the last couple of days it is: "... it's the way I respond to my children in everyday moments that gives me the best chance of winning their hearts." I love that, " in the everyday moments" how am I responding? not very pleasing to the Lord. I need to respond better to them so they see me modeling good behavior and good character. To lead my children not only by telling them what to do but showing them.

God is good in directing us to something that was done or read in the past to teach us once again what we've forgotten. I don't want my children to think they are a bother or that I am too busy for them. They are my "work", what God has called me to do at this particular point in my life. I feel as though sometimes I'm losing them because I'm too busy. So if this is written for no one else but me, it was still worth writing down for me to read over again, when I need to be reminded once more.

Lava!

2009-09-25T13:04:00.000-07:00

Today was our "Science experiment" day in Homeschooling. One of my friends, who is also homeschooling all her kids, came over and we did an experiment with all nine of them. We make them go through the process of asking why, making predictions and then testing it out . Today we were creating Lava out in the mud beside our garden. My boys had been working on making volcanic mountains all week so I've had a few extra loads of laundry to do. The ingredient for this concoction of lava is: water, liquid dish soap, vinegar, food coloring and baking soda. So here they are putting it all together.

Next we wet outside to see if their predictions were right. A couple of them thought it would explode and the other thought it would just bubble over.

Just bubbling over won the prediction. Here Andrew is suggesting we add more baking soda to the next one to see if it does something different.

Do you see who all were up for a second round?

THE BOYS!

Now for the second round.

And of course they had to touch it.

Mexico Mission Trip 2009

2009-07-05T15:38:00.000-07:00

Mexico Mission Trip

OK, its been a long time in coming ad mist moving and vacations, but I wanted to do this longer post of the mission trip. Last year, Andrew was able to go with Steve and the youth group and this year both Andrew and Tori were able to go. I was a little hesitant to let Tori go, but she did fine. As in every Mexico trip Steve wanted to drive straight through which works out great if there are enough drivers, which again God provided.

The trip down consisted of sleeping and getting to know the others going down. Tori had a blast getting to know some of the youth and making friends.

Tori enjoyed her first meal of fish tacos in Ensenada. I Heard she was impressive in trying anything that was placed in front of her.

The youth ready to leave on their first work day.

The building to the left is the house they built last year. This year they added onto that one. Here they are getting the footing ready for the concrete.

Kind of looks like he's about to get frisked, but Steve is just holding up the wall as they piece the building together.

Mudding the outside.

Taping and mudding the inside. They also did wiring for possible electricity in the future.

Looking good.

Tori made friends quickly with the little girl who will live in the house. They had fun playing despite the language barrier. Tori knows a little Spanish from being in the dual language program at school, so I'm sure she was able to communicate better than most of the students that went.

Playing around.

VBS was in the late afternoon after they worked on the house in the AM and early afternoon. The group of kids was small but they had quite a few by the last day.

The Wallers on KP duty!

This is the family (the daughter is not in the picture) that the house was built for. I heard they were very Thankful for the house and very gracious with their food.

The Family and the Mission team in front of the finished house!

The last day they are there in Ensenada, they always take a trip to La Bufadora to do some touristy shopping. As you can see Andrew was less than trilled to put this hat on and get a picture. He got over it pretty quickly.

Part of the group posing for a picture. Dennis and Debbie Hollenbeck are the missionaries we work with and have worked with ever since Steve first went down back in 1996.

Steve has always enjoyed exposing teens from America to a different culture, they always come back, with a different heart. It is priceless for them to understand that people can live with "little" and survive and not only that they seemed satisfied and have the "joy of the Lord".

HAPPY FATHERS DAY! STEVE

2009-06-20T23:19:00.000-07:00

I am so glad we get to spend this day with you. You are the "King for the Day", wait you are always the "King"..oh well. We love you. The kids couldn't have asked for a better Father for them. Thanks for loving us, providing for us, playing with us and teaching us about our Heavenly Father.
You're the Best!!!
Enjoy your day, Mr. King
ESCUCHEMA to you!!!

Happy 5th Birthday Allie!

2009-04-05T18:57:00.000-07:00

My newest 5 year old, Alexandria Jane Waller

The Beautiful Sisters!

My first attempt at her 5th Birthday cake. She loved it because it had a crown on it. This was only a glimpse of what was to come for her party on Saturday.

Allie has been really into having tea parties, so we got her her own ceramic lady bug tea set for four.

We left McMinnville on Thursday and returned home. On Friday, my friend Cassie (who loves to create cakes) came to help me put a princess cake together that Allie saw on Cakecentral.com. It looked a little overwhelming, but she showed me how easy it was. It took us all day because I had a funeral to go to in the middle of it and we had 9 kids running underfoot. But this was the final product on Saturday right before the party. I think it turned out well. I could not have done it without Cassie's help. She was patient with me and my perfectionism.

Allie loved her cake and enjoyed her time with her friends and family.

Steve came in and performed cheap entertainment for the attendees.

Allie received cards and Barbie dolls.

In the middle of the festivities (while the kids were playing) we took at least 50 shots of us. I was being really picky. I wanted a new facebook pic and this is the one that was the best. But in the process Steve was getting a little tired and so he posed with his "stupid faces" which I couldn't see. One of the best reasons I married this guy. He makes me laugh and makes life interesting in our house.

Allie posing outside on the swing with her beloved Disney Cinderella Doll.

I love you, Allie. I love your hugs and your kisses. And I love you more than Starbucks Carmel Macchiatos!!

The Last Two Months

2009-03-22T15:21:00.000-07:00

Well for the past 2 months we had not been able to find our camera and then Allie comes up with it. She had it conveniently stored in her closet. So that's one reason I haven't posted for awhile. Its so much easier when you have a picture to talk about. So these are our latest photos of Steve's favorite past-time.We (Steve) is/are remodeling our bathroom. If I haven't told you yet that we are moving: We are moving. There are a few things we wanted to get done to make the house more "sell-able" and this is our second of 4 projects. Steve wanted to learn how to tile and found that this would be a good experience and something new to learn. This pic was taken after he put in the tile and the cement was drying.

And here is when it was all done. The tiling, the grout and the new faucet/shower pieces were installed. He did a great job. The next phase is the new sink installed (temporarily, so we can use it until he starts on the floor) then tiling the floor. He's enjoyed this new adventure in remodeling. This is great practice for the 2 story old farmhouse we'll be moving into probably in the next month.

Saying "No" and "Yes" to Yourself

2009-01-27T14:46:00.000-08:00

There are a few things we want to teach our kids before they leave our house and become independent adults (OK, more than just a few). But recently we've been discussing in our house "self-control". The first week we were try to say "No" to ourselves in doing things that are not necessarily good for us or its just not the right time (priorities). Just about every day at dinnertime Steve would ask each of us how we said "No" to ourselves that day. Some days were better than other days. Our conclusion is that we say "Yes" to ourselves way more times than "No". In fact some days I couldn't come up with one "No". Our flesh is always looking out for the easy road, so IT is in control. So making the conscience effort to say "No" is hard if you're not used to doing it. This week we are to say "Yes" to ourselves in the same self-controlled way. "Yes, I'm going to get out of bed and workout", "Yes, I will obey right away", "Yes, I will have my quiet time with the Lord", "Yes, I will get my work done before I "play"." So far we are doing better this week, but I'm still trying to incorporate "No's" in my life. With the Holy Spirit in us we can be controlled by the Spirit and not our flesh. I think we'll all look at the list of the Fruits of the Spirit in Galatians a little bit different after this.

Happy Knitting!

2008-12-29T11:15:00.000-08:00

Steve's sister, Liane, was able to come and visit us for a few days after Christmas. As you can see in the picture most of them are wearing knitted scarves which she made for them. She even taught Tori and myself how to knit. Tori picked it up quickly and loves doing it. I learned many years ago and she reminded me how to do it once again. Tori and I will be spending some quiet time knitting away, I think. We had a great time with Liane and even played the game "Sorry" quite a bit. Thanks Mom, Dad and Heather!

A Load Too Big To Carry

2008-12-04T22:49:00.000-08:00

Tonight, on my way home from an evening celebrating the "Birthday of the King" I was listening to more Christmas music on our radio station. The "Breath of Heaven" song came on sung by Amy Grant. This song was new about 15 years ago (which I hardly can believe its been that long). Many people enjoyed it because it had great words and fitting music (a bit mysterious). As time went on it was used a lot and then just became a common Christmas song, one you expected to hear. Some may sing along not even listening to the words. Tonight it was new again, to me. As I listened to the words I began to pray them... as a Mom. The second verse is this

I am waiting in a silent prayer.

I am frightened by the load i bear.

In a world as cold as stone,

Must i walk this path alone?

Be with me now.Be with me now.

Chorus:

Breath of heaven,

Hold me together,

Be forever near me,

Breath of heaven.

Breath of heaven,

Lighten my darkness,

Pour over me your holiness,

For you are holy.

Earlier, as I was getting ready for this evening out, Andrew came in to talk to me with a despaired look on his face. Andrew told me he was scared and didn't want to watch the news anymore. Come to find out they were talking about Terrorists coming to live in Washington. I reassured him God knew all that was happening and He was and is in control. I shared with him that there may be some tough times ahead but God doesn't want us to be scared and worried about them. He wants us to trust Him, I definitely was speaking to the choir on that one. As a Mom, just as in the song, I am frightened by the load I bear. Because the world can be as cold as stone I see an urgency to prepare myself and my children for hard times. But thankfully we don't have to bear it alone. Knowing that the Holy Spirit is there with us is comforting. How often in that song does it say "Be with me" or "hold me together" or "Be forever near me" and "Pour over me your holiness", prayers for us as parents to be praying because we can't bear these burdens alone.

I'm thanking God for all that He is:

El Roi: the God Who Sees

and

Jehovah-nissi: The Lord My Banner

Learning about the First Thanksgiving

2008-11-23T17:06:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited to head home to Oregon and the kids can't wait to see Grandma and Grandpa Wilson and Aunt Heather. As we walk in we are greeted with warmth, both from the hearth and hearts. Coming "Home" is always a heart-warming time.

A couple nights ago during dinner Steve asked a simple question, "Where did the Pilgrims first land?" I told Steve that I have a book that would tell us. So I put my fork down, got the book and found basically the chapter we might get our answer from. The kids were a bit restless, especially Tori and she said one of the forbidden words in our house "Boring". I reminded her about the forbidden word, gave her a consequence and then I started to read. About 2 pages into it Steve said, "Can you just tell me where they landed so I can point it out on the place mat map". "Oh", I said, " I thought you wanted to do some family reading". So we found the pilgrims landed in Cape Cod and I shut the book. Then Tori piped up, "Keep going Mom". I looked at Steve and he gave the go ahead. So I continued reading another 3 or 4 pages. We came to when the Pilgrims were having the feast with the Indians and ended our time there (because our "Indians" were getting restless). If the first time didn't surprise me enough, Tori again wanted to read more. So a few family members got down from the table and I continued reading another chapter. I just loved the change of heart from my "little" Tori. As a child myself, I thought History was "boring" and I don't want to pass that along to my kids. Hopefully this is a good sign.

Our Sunday Jaunt

2008-10-29T15:10:00.001-07:00

Before anymore time passes I need to finish this blog post. A week ago Sunday, Steve and I decided to have a bit of church right here in our house and then head up into the hills to just get away from the busyness of life and enjoy looking at God's creation. The kids were up for the drive. So Steve broke out his guitar and we had a bit of worship time (Youth group Style, as Steve likes to call it). We are enjoying teaching the kids some of the songs we sung way back in our college days when Steve was a Jr.Hi Youth Intern and also led the worship. He read from the Bible about.. I can't remember.. but the kids really enjoyed hearing the story once again. We prayed and then I finished preparing lunch and then we were on our way.

Our first stop was in Yakima at a park for lunch. At the park just over the crest of the hill was a pond and the kids spotted a couple of Swans and also ducks. So as soon as we finished our sandwiches we took what was left over and they were able to feed the Swans. I love this picture, it looks so peaceful.

As soon as we said we were headed to the car to go to the mountains, James and Allie took off ahead of everyone and headed to the playground to get in at least one slide down the slide. I took this picture at a good distance and caught them hand in hand (a rare site, though Allie is very protective of James, much to James demise).

We headed to the mountains to catch a glimpse of the Fall and see the colors changing. We did see it but found no great place to get out and "frolic". So Steve kept driving until sightings of snow came into view. Not what we expected to see at all. Then there was Mt. Rainier in all its glory. Wow! Pictures do not do it justice. How powerful and Awesome to see God's Majestic creativity.

There was a place to park and get out so we decided to stop and let the kids enjoy a little pre-winter snow. We found a trail hoping to follow it to a great hiking place, but not too far the path turned into a muddy mess. So we stopped and let the kids have a little fun playing in the snow.

James was loving it, but couldn't figure out how to get back up without putting his hands in the cold snow. His hands were cold and red, poor little guy.

Of course, Steve couldn't resist the temptation for a snow fight, especially with Tori. She's always up for a "fight".

We let Andrew have the camera to take a few shots of us. Not bad!

In the midst of all the fun we met up with a park ranger that kind of spoiled our joy. He told us to try to keep our kids on the (muddy!!!) path. So we headed down another path but Steve noticed him continuing to watch us and decided he didn't need a babysitter. So that spoiled that and we were headed back to the car. I was trying to get some good shots of the kids and Steve and after I took it I noticed the sign in the picture and just laughed. It says "Trampling kills meadows. Please Stay on Trails" a sign we obviously missed going in.

So we got back into the suburban, cleaned our shoes as much as we could and headed back. We enjoyed looking out into the masses of trees and the changes of colors. I especially enjoyed looking at the Vine Maples that are in the midst of all the trees in the woods, another hidden beauty that usually only artists pick up. By the time we hit Yakima we were ready for another stop. So Steve surprised us with dinner at Miners, a local burger joint that has been there probably over 50 years. We had a great time being together and enjoying looking out into God's creation and not being distracted by all the things in the world that want to steal our time and joy. God knows I needed the time to get away and just enjoy Him with my family.

Pity Party, Squelched!

2008-10-13T15:07:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like a pity party being squelched. Usually we write all about the wonderful things that are going on in our life and conveniently leave out the struggles to appear...perfect! Well today I'll be a bit more vulnerable. Yesterday was one of those days where everything seemed to be going against me and I had some not-so-pretty moments. In the middle of it all I knew I needed to snap out of it and think about the things that still needed to be done for the people in my family: washing and cooking. I did them but with a "poor me" heart, not a "pretty" heart. After dinner we were sitting down and watching Home Makeover, a Sunday night ritual. During the commercial breaks we have the kids go do one of their evening chores and check them off. So during the 1st commercial was "go get your pajamas on", they did it promptly. I was in the kitchen doing my chore of cleaning up dinner and all of a sudden I heard a "thunk" on the coffee table in the front room. Steve was sitting on the couch and had his legs extended. Allie comes running back to the front room with her pajamas on and trips over Steve's feet and slams her head right into the coffee table. Of course, I came running and she started sobbing in Steve's arms. Steve immediately says we're gonna need stitches on this one. So I grabbed the butterfly tape and Steve tried his best to mend. Then off we went, Allie, myself and Tori (to help Allie while I drove) to the ER. As we headed there a song came on the radio "Empty Me" on our Christian radio station, which was played just for me. The Chorus goes like this: "Empty Me of this selfishness inside, every vain ambition and the poison of my pride.....Empty me of me so I can be filled with You". So at that moment God was beginning to empty me as I recognized what was happening. I needed to turn my attention from myself to my little girl and then I began to feel a relief of the weight of selfishness. I know I'll still have my selfish moments but hopefully they will be less frequent with the help of the Holy Spirit. Allie, well they checked her out and the cut was in a good spot so they didn't need to do stitches, they just glued it. Praise the Lord. Allie had been to the ER about 6 weeks ago and had 2 stitches put in the side of her foot, you would have thought she was being tortured. So I was not looking forward to going through that again. A little glue did the trick this time and we were headed home.

Our Annual Church Hayride

2008-10-07T22:55:00.000-07:00

We also, this past Sunday, had our annual church hayride. The kids always look forward to it. Here are a few pics.

Here is Tori with a few of her friends.

Grandpa Gene grabbing a little extra time with a couple of his grandkids.

Our good friends, Silas and Natalie.

James was in tears at the beginning of the ride and wanted to go home. But the brave little one stuck it out all the way through.

The Prosser Balloon Rally

2008-10-07T22:36:00.000-07:00

Hey I wanted to catch everyone up on what we've been up to. About a week and a half ago we woke up the kids on a Saturday morning before sunrise, dressed them and headed to the car for a surprise. Off we went to Prosser right around 6am (usually no one sees us out of the house on Saturdays till around 9am, so this is very unusual). We were headed to the Prosser Balloon rally. It was a blast seeing these huge balloons being set up, blown up and taking off. As they laid the balloon out on the tarp it really didn't look all that big, but as it was blowing up it kept expanding and they were big. The kids really enjoyed it and Tori kept begging to go up in one. (No doubt, Mariel, Tori will be the one to be brave enough to go hang gliding with you some day).

Here are a few pics from our Morning Expedition!

I'm Still Here!

2008-09-16T13:28:00.000-07:00

Wow the last couple of weeks have been crazy with getting the kids back in school and starting to home school Andrew with the 2 little ones. It's been nice having him home and we're starting to learn some fun things together.
Yesterday I was in the midst of a lot of women. First, in the morning I did a mini-nutrition talk to a christian ladies group (probably 40 or so) and then in the evening I met up with probably 20+ homeschooling moms and spent a couple of hours picking a few of their brains. I'm so excited with all the support there is and all the exceptional curriculum available. I sat with a Mom of 6 with one on the way. She is 42! Her kids are 20, 17, 15, 5 1/2, 4 and 2. She's a homeschooling veteran with her older ones and just beginning with her younger ones. She's got a neat story. Boy she gave me a lot of good ideas and I'm so glad God put me in the path of these ladies. It was so funny though, in this group of ladies you tell them you have 5 kids and to them its no big deal because most have 7,8, and 9 kids. Whereas, in the public eye people stand in awe of you having 5 kids. Its going to keep me humble or want more kids, one of the two!

Enlightened

2008-08-29T08:03:00.000-07:00

If you didn't already know, here I am to enlighten you.

I know a great way to save money on your electric bill, gas bill and water bill and also get some exercise in. *Take a shower as soon as your done exercising*

I love hot showers and to my husbands demise I stay and enjoy it for way too long. Now that I've taken up running in the morning (2nd shift, I go as soon as Steve gets back from running) I've noticed my showers are a lot cooler!!!!

Off To Work!

2008-08-22T07:23:00.000-07:00

Each Friday the 3 oldest kids get to rotate going to work with Dad for 1 1/2 hours or so. Jon was the lucky one today. He got up at 6:15 this morning, got dressed and ate a few bites of cereal, then bundled up for the cool ride. Steve called me not even 10 minutes later from work and said we had a little accident, in my mind I thought the worst "I should have flagged Steve down and scooted Jon over" just as they were heading out the driveway . As you can see from the picture Jon was off center and leaning to the left. But no, it wasn't Jon. My travelling Starbucks cup was on the left side of the backpack and fell out and broke. Thank God it was just the cup!

Olive Garden escape!

2008-08-21T14:31:00.000-07:00

We made the escape. Although it wasn't too hard, we had the kids' favorite babysitter come and we took off in the red Buick Apollo(Steve's fastest car). It was a great night to celebrate our anniversary with cooler weather. So we headed to the Tri-cities and made our first stop at a framing shop that a friend owns to frame one of our Wedding pictures. Our photographer at our wedding was good, but never printed any of our wedding pictures and just gave us all the negatives. I have our wedding scrapbook only 1/3 of the way done not too good for 13 years. Anyway came across our wedding negatives and had Walmart print out a 12X18 pic of just us in black and white. Thus, we took it to the framer and had it professionally done with a black frame and white matting. It should look great. Then we headed off to Olive Garden and enjoyed our favorite meals with the salad and bread sticks. We also enjoyed their chocolate sorbet with carmel drizzled over it and dark chocolate chunks sprinkled over. It was good! Conversation was great and we also struck up a conversation with a couple that had a baby. We started, of course. in guessing how old the baby was (with all our expertise). Well, we were a month off. Oh well. Then this couple happened to know other friends of ours and they also were customers that Star (Steve's Grandpa, Dads and uncles business) builds semi truck trailers for. Kind of fun.
When we arrived home the kids were wound up. I guess we all had a good evening.

13 Years Ago Today

2008-08-19T07:52:00.001-07:00

Happy Anniversary Steve!

This past year has been the best, so far. God has blessed us in many ways and I pray for His continued protection on our marriage.

*13 reasons why I love you*

1. You're Funny

2. You're Good looking

3. You're a Great Dad

4. You lighten things up with your humor

5. You're Hard working

6. You help me with the dishes

7. You play with the kids

8. You hate losing

9. Your Feet

10. Make time to still date me

11. You're knowledge of God's Word

12. Ambition in continuing to learn

13. You're desire to have a Godly family

I could literally go on more, but since 13 is the magic number of the day I'll stop.

Love you and looking forward to our date tonight!!!

Aaaah...Cannon Beach!

2008-08-17T23:04:00.001-07:00

OK... We love Cannon Beach! One of the highlights of our year. The kids start counting down the day we get back from Cannon Beach! Steve's family has been going for 30 some years and I was priveleged to marry into it. We always stay at Cannon Beach Christian Conference Center where we have our lodging and eat most our meals in their Dining Hall. For me I love the break of not having to think through the week to make a menu, going shopping and preparing it all. The kids just can't wait to get out on the beach and dig in the warm sand and maybe get a little bit wet. Haystack Rock always welcomes us back for another week of rest. The conference center always has great speakers that challenge us. This week Pastor Tom Schraeder from Phoenix was there. He worked his way through 2 Timothy and it was good and challenging! The kids all have there own programs going on while the adults meet in the morning and the evenings after dinner. We have all afternoon to enjoy..whatever..or just take a nap (I personally didn't get any naps this time, I was trying to fit a lot into a few days). So here are just a few pics of the time God provided for us.

What Makes You Feel Better?

2008-07-28T10:46:00.000-07:00

After changing James' very dirty diaper I asked James a question.

Mommy: James do you feel better?

James: I want a coffee!

After laughing for a while I realized that Coffee has become a "comfort food" in our house.

James!!!!!! (In the "You're in Trouble" tone of voice)

2008-07-16T22:33:00.000-07:00

My big sister said I needed to add more photos of James, so this if your you Mariel!

The typical youngest child who seems to think he can get away with naughtiness with a cute grin, James. Tonight we had a new meal for dinner, not the the kids favorite, but most of them ate it, the majority of it, except James. He did choke down a bite and then was "all done" he said. I told him he wouldn't be getting a cookie later if he didn't eat any more. I though this was clearly understood. After the dinner cleanup James, Tori and Allie headed to the kiddie swimming pool, while Andrew and Jon caught a couple of Praying Mantis' and were trying to trap a few bugs for their (their PM) meals. I brought James in to clean up about a 1/2 hour later. Rinsed him off and put his pajamas on. 8:00 came and it was time for the others to get ready for bed. While I was rinsing off Tori and Allie in the shower (the pool was getting a little murky) James came in to show me his forbidden treasure. With chocolate all over his face and hands he gives me that little grin, "look Mom what I got, now ya gonna chase me?" JAMES!!!! I did go after him only to put him back in the high chair to finish his supper that I had set aside. He did take one more bite and then he was done, off to brush his teeth and get into bed. James is definitely his own little person and we're seeing strength and endurance in this little man, which will prove to be useful as he matures as a man.

Here are a few more cute pics of him today!

My Mom

2008-07-05T16:50:00.000-07:00

This last week while Steve and Andrew were on their mission trip to Mexico, I took the rest of the kids down to stay with my parents in Oregon. While we were there we got to enjoy Mom, Dad and Heather as well as parks with water fountains that the kids were able to run through to cool off. We took naps, we probably had ice cream everyday (very unusual for us) and the kids were able to semi-torment my sisters cat. But there was one thing that stuck out to me, very subtly, my Mom in the Scripture. The night after we returned I layed in bed thinking about that and started formulating a poem in my head, so I had to write it down. We impact more people by what we do than by what we say! Thanks Mom for your wonderful example!

In her extended moments

I'd find her upon her bed

Reading God's Word and underlining

Every word that was read

It took me back to my childhood

When often I would see

Her Bible opened at the table

As she looked after me

"Let's Pray" was often said by her

in many situations

Lost money, keys and glasses

or in life's tribulations

In her life God's seen her through

A death of a child, a wayward son

She knows exactly what she will do

and exactly to whom she will run

No, she's not perfect, and neither are we

But her faithfulness to God leaves a mark

A mark that I want to leave to my children

And a Love that will never depart

(excuse the layout, blogger wouldn't publish it with the spaces to separate the verses)

Happy 6th Birthday Jon!

2008-06-14T16:51:00.001-07:00

Today was Jon's 6th Birthday. He requested Spaghetti and Meatballs at his party with his friends. It was a fun time with his friends and family. Truth be known, I'm exhausted. I, once again, stayed up too late to gather photos for our picture wall. Oh well, its part of having a family! or maybe too high expectations for myself. Since Jon shares his birthday with "Flag day", I went a little patriotic with his cake. I have found great and easy ideas for kids cakes at familyfun.com .

Jon has been a blessing, just like all the others. He's following in his fathers footsteps and keeping all of us laughing. He definitly brings joy to our house. He finished Kindergarten and is heading into the 1st grade this next year. He's looking forward to swimming and our annual trip to Cannon Beach this summer.

The Summer Begins

2008-06-09T21:39:00.001-07:00

Today, Summer officially begins. The kids have been looking forward to this for a very long time. But guess where we headed to anyway? School! Andrew's teacher was not able to be in his class the last 2 days of school and told the kids she'd be at the school on Monday till 11am. So around 10:30 we headed there with cameras in hand (my digital and Andrew had the video camera). Not quite sure what he wanted to videotape, but I think it was just another chance to tinker with technology. So he video taped in his classroom and going down the hall as we left. Since we've decided to home school Andrew next year he wanted to capture some moments, he's very sentimental.
So this morning after breakfast we talked through our weeks in the summer. Knowing that my days can get pretty frazzled if I don't have a plan, we laid out a plan. Hopefully, leaving enough room for spontaneity. Since there are 5 kids, each kids will have their own day. Starting with the oldest, Andrew's day is Monday, Tori's day is Tuesday, etc... On their particular day they will get to do some fun stuff but also have extra responsibility. They get to do their laundry (with my help), help me make lunch, during quiet time they get to be in the front room doing what they want quietly while the others are on their bed either napping or just resting. They also each (the older ones) will get to add another entry on their blogs that we set up and then if there are any choices to be made with the kids the kid of the day gets to pick. One day down 89 more to go. We'll see how it all pans out. Of course I can be pretty idealistic so I'll keep blogging and let you know how its going. So Andrew has set up his blog and I finally figured out how to put links on my page, so check out Andrew's Neighborhood some time. God has impressed on my mind to find joy in being with my kids this summer, so with His help I know I will. I am looking forward to memorable times, so as not to be too idealistic I understand that those blah moments will be in there too!

Our Memorial Day Bike Ride

2008-05-28T14:03:00.000-07:00

The kids looked forward to this all weekend. Camping out with Dad in tents, roasting marshmallows and our bike riding venture around noon were all on the agenda. The sky looked questionable so Steve decided to pitch the tents in the garage. This time we all were out there together. Usually I am in the house with "the baby", but since our baby is just about 2 he was all excited about it as well. Steve pitched 2 tents the "guys tent" and the "girls tent". It was fun to watch the rain fall after we all got settled in our tents. We slept "OK". A few of the kids are fighting off a cough, so we heard random hacking throughout the night. I slept so light I heard everything. Needless to say I was still pretty tired in the morning. The next morning we cleaned up, had breakfast and prepared for our bike ride down along the path in town. Steve packed all the bikes in the trailer including the kid trailer that rides behind Steve's bike. We headed down and met Grandpa Gene in the WalMart parking lot and headed out. The kids did great, the weather was perfect, not too hot or cold and a little wind. The picture is taken halfway through our ride, just to ensure we get some smiles. By the end they were pretty worn out.

He Did Good!

2008-05-18T23:06:00.000-07:00

Steve did good! Mothers Day was very enjoyable. I woke up to a cinnamon roll and a Starbucks Carmel Macchiato (My favorite)! For breakfast he put on a big spread. Steve normally makes breakfast on Sunday's but this one was extra special including pancakes, eggs, homemade hashbrowns (that he prepped the night before) and bacon. We all had an enjoyable morning together before we headed to church. The kids all made cards from school and Sunday school that were priceless. Steve did get me a gift, a vaccuum! Before you start laughing, let me explain, its a Dyson! Do I hear Ooooh, Aaaah? Our previous vaccuum was not so bad. It was a wedding gift from a lady that I had cleaned house for and she gave me her old vaccuum. It has held up in our home for almost 13 years now. It was kind of going on the frits, with a makeshift handle Steve rigged up, but also the power cord blinking in and out. It was just time for a new one. One thing about Steve is "If we're going to get one, we might as well get a good one". So we all have been enjoying it over the past week. Its a bagless one which I wasn't so sure about, but now I'm sold. I love actually being able to see what I've accomplished at the end of a vaccuuming session. After church we headed to a buffet of one of the nicer restaurants in town and enjoyed time with Steve's dad, grandpa and Gene's wife and her daughter and their family. This picture was taken by Andrew (9) right outside of the restaurant.

A Job Well Done!

2008-05-07T14:39:00.001-07:00

If you called for Steve on a Saturday in the last 3 years you were likely to hear "He's out working on the garage". Well his baby is complete. It was 3 years in the making and he's done another job well. The garage doors arrived last Thursday and were installed, complete with automatic garage door openers (A luxury I only dreamed of when I was a kid, we had to put the door up by hand!) Well have no fear Steve's got a long list of projects he's itching to get started on. So who knows where Steve will be in the following Saturdays, call us and find out!

SURPRISE! Happy Birthday Steve!

2008-04-12T10:01:00.001-07:00

I Love surprises, so Steve was bound to get a surprise for his 40th Birthday. The night before I called my good friend Liz and frantically asked her for some ideas. Up till that point, I had not planned on doing anything than just a casual family party at home. I was exhausted from the two previous birthdays that week, but I couldn't let the 40th one slip by. So I called a few friends, ordered an Ice Cream Cake and had them show up at 7:30. A few of the youth kids came early, so they ate dinner with us and we hung out till the others started showing up. It was a surprise to Steve when other friends started showing up and the house became full of those friends and family he enjoys. We lit the black cake with 40 black candles and watched him try to blow them out, needless to say the room was a little smokey and we had to open up the doors. It was a good night all in all.

To a great husband, father, son and friend we celebrate with you!

I pray God gives us at least another 40 years together!

Happy 40th Birthday Daddy!

2008-04-09T22:22:00.000-07:00

Here's your Birthday greeting from the kids! We pray you have an enjoyable and memorable Day.

We love you! XOXOXOXOXOX

Happy 9th Birthday Andrew!

2008-04-08T22:04:00.001-07:00

I did it again, I stayed up way too late, but I couldn't find last years envelope of pictures that I post on their birthday. So I went through most of the little photo albums and picked the best.

Yes, it is another birthday in my family and its not over yet. Steve's is Thursday! 4 Birthdays in a week and a half span. We have our fill of cake and ice cream by the end.

Andrew 9 years has really gone by fast. You are a great kid and we love you so much. We pray you have many more and within those years that your heart becomes like His. What a blessing you have been to our family. We love you. -Dad and Mom

Happy Birthday Dad!

2008-04-06T16:31:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Dad!

Thanks for being a great Man in my life. What a privledge to have you as my Dad.

God has richly blessed you as you pursued to be a great husband, dad, grandfather and a shepherd/pastor to many flocks. Wish we could be there to celebrate with you. We love you so very much. XOXOXOX

Happy Birthday Allie!

2008-04-01T06:31:00.000-07:00

My little ritual the night before someone's birthday in our family is to stay up too late. But what I'm doing is worth it all. I gather the photos I want to display of the Birthday child. What takes the longest is going through each little photo album and glancing through the photos which takes me down memory lane. It helps me think about dwelling a little longer with the kids and not be in such a rush because "time flies", too fast!

As we headed to the hospital 4 years ago on April Fools Day, she had a prank for me. Usually when I head to the hospital (at least with the other 3) I deliver them within the hour. She made me wait 9 before she came out, that little stinker! But what a little blessing she has been to our family. I know in the future people will have fun with her birthday being on April Fools Day, but I'm not so creative. For now we'll just Celebrate all day with Alexandria- the Queen of the Day!

A Not So Well Thought Out Plan

2008-02-16T07:17:00.000-08:00

This Valentines Day I thought I'd do something out of the ordinary for me. With the idea from a friend (Thanks, Katie) I thought I'd try something to get Steve a bit embarrased (not an easy thing to do). I had it all planned out. I'd make the sign after he went to bed then in the morning while he was in the shower I'd go out and stick this sign on the back of his Blazer where he could not see it. All went well and he went off to work. All morning I was waiting for that phone call but it never came. I went off to my MOPS meeting and told a few what I did so we waited to her my cell phone ring, it never did. After MOPS my plan was to stop by his work before heading home to get lunch ready. So we did. He wanted to play it off, but we both couldn't keep a straight face. So here was the sign:

He proceeded to tell me that no one honked (who would at 6:30 in the morning in a small town). And only one car sped up behind him probably to see what was written and then backed off. We had a good laugh, but I was a little disappointed he didn't get the full effect of the "well-planned scheme".

I left and he came home for lunch and then he left again. I didn't even think twice about revenge. As I went to pick up the kids from school we inched our way through the turn about and I saw the kids with their bagful of valentines. Andrew opens the door and says "Mom what's that sign on the back of the suburban?" The emabarassement I wanted Steve to have turned on me and now I was the one throughly emabarassed. As we inched our way out of the turnabout I realized my plan was not-so-well thought out and totally backfired on me. It was a fun day, a bit unusual for us, but fun. I love you, Honey!!

What We Discovered

2008-02-08T13:25:00.000-08:00

We discovered a new room in our house! A new play room and its so much fun. Of course this room is a makeshift tent with a big blanket and chairs and then all the favorite toys right now, but now these toys are all of a sudden new again. We've put one together for the last 3 days and even the older kids are enjoying it when they return from school.

Allie wanted to take her nap under the tent, knowing that would not work this afternoon, I told her maybe all the kids can camp out in it tonight. She was all over that idea.

The Morning After Sabbath

2008-01-28T11:23:00.000-08:00

OK... maybe I didn't do quite enough laundry on Saturday not to do any on Sunday. I've got to work on that. For now I've got at least 7 loads of laundry to get caught up, the trick is not to let those cute little interruptions (all 5 are home today, No school) irritate me. But I did enjoy the day off yesterday and spent some extra time with the kids.

A Day of Rest!

2008-01-27T22:37:00.000-08:00

I did it today! I actually rested on our "day of rest". No cleaning, no laundry...intentionally not doing those things so I can rest for another busy week ahead. OK, I did vacuum just a little...popcorn was everywhere, but no scheduled busywork. I did try to plan ahead for this though. Tried to get laundry caught up the day before, have lunch planned out, clothes picked out, everything ready for the Sunday morning rush (spurred on by our MOPS meeting earlier in the week). Saturday it did snow in the morning for awhile but then the rest of Saturday was freezing rain and then we woke up this morning with snow on top of that. So we had a ice sandwich: Ice on top of snow on top of ice! Steve made the call that we'd just have church here at home, and that we did. The kids got ready as usual and we sat down to a Bible Story lesson. After that the kids put on their winter duds and got out in the weather and had a blast. This also included getting a ride on our neighbors snowmobile (Thanks Bob and Gina!). The 3 oldest kids were in heaven, OK Steve was too. Put a motor under any of them and their ready for some fun! I stayed in my nice warm house making hot chocolate and putting a puzzle together with Tori and occasionally popping out on the front deck to take some pics. By late afternoon the kids were ready to play a game of Monopoly. I love playing board games but usually there are too many things to get done. Even though the laundry pile was getting larger by the hour (with all the wet clothes) I sat down to enjoy some time with my kiddos. I think I'm getting it. My house may never be clean all at one time (God knows I've tried), I truly want to enjoy my kids while they are here. Like us moms are told "Enjoy them while you can, it doesn't last long", I always seem to be reminded of that just at the times I need to hear it the most. So being our "Sabbath" I took advantage of that Enjoyment!

Ignore the pink gloves on James. When your number 5 you take what fits!!

Snow Bunnies

2008-01-08T14:19:00.001-08:00

We woke up to snow again today. I think this is the 4th snowfall this winter. A little more than we usually get in the winter season. The kids, of course, love it. Unfortunately school was not cancelled or delayed, which they were hoping for. So we bounded off in our Suburban and took the kids to school. When we got back home Allie wanted to play, so I bundled Allie and James up and we headed our for a mid morning snack of "snow". We also did get a snowman made in the middle of snack time.

The Cat

2008-01-08T14:15:00.001-08:00

Our Animal Lover

2008-01-05T14:21:00.000-08:00

Tori loves animals. Horses and cats are among her favorites, which she is semi-allergic to. But that doesn't stop her. She holds, cuddles and mothers our new Christmas kitten. It was a big surprise to all the kids. We wrapped the cat carrier up in Christmas wrapping paper and let them open it up on Christmas Eve Day. They were a little confused until Steve comes walking out with the cat.

Our Comedian

2008-01-01T17:27:00.000-08:00

Jonathan, he cracks himself up, which makes us laugh even more!

Christmas 2007

2007-12-29T17:03:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas celebration was great. We were able to celebrate with both sides of the family. Here are a few pictures. Steve's Grandpa even celebrated his 90th birthday with us on Christmas Day!

Tired of Waiting

2007-11-23T13:21:00.000-08:00

What a 1 1/2 year old boy has to do to get attention in our chaotic home? James was sitting in his high chair waiting for dinner to get on the table. But he got a little tired of waiting and slipped out from underneath the latched tray and sat on it. Mom walked in and about had a heart attack but instead I grabbed the camera. I couldn't miss this moment.

Contentment

2007-10-09T13:48:00.000-07:00

36 years ago, today, my parents welcomed their 5th child into their family, their 2nd girl. I have been blessed to be part of a rich heritage of faith in the Lord. As I ponder, I see God's hand protecting and guiding me through the ups and downs of life. Though I have not mastered contentment, and probably never truly will until I reach heaven, I am content in where I am in my life right now. Married to my wonderful husband, Steve, for 12 years and added 5 kids to the family, even though, I admit I have my days of "why's", I can't imagine being anywhere else. My endless desire to be organized still eludes me, but I refuse to let that desire dictate my life. My family is the most important to me because they are eternal souls. This past year has been a tough year, so many changes have taken place, but God is and will continue to be good. It has been through these tough times, just as this song says, that we have more praise for the Lord, in who He is and what he's done and what He will do. May we all be truly content in where God has us at this moment and praise Him for it!

2007-09-27T15:35:00.000-07:00

We're enjoying our few last days of summer. Here is Tori with our adopted cat, who we think might be pregnant, but it may turn out that it is a male and he's just getting fat. We'll see. James loves being outside. Here he is practicing his lawnmowing skills. He's toddling everywhere and loves his independance. Though, he is really attached to Dad or "Da" whenever he is around. A few of my kids are battling a bug this week. One has been out of school for 4 days and I got a call from the nurse at school today that another is feeling ill. So I went and picked him up. So I working to get everyone back on their feet and hopefully next week will be real boring compared to this week!

He's got his independance!

2007-09-20T05:29:00.000-07:00

James, Jamers, Blondie, Punkin' eater, #5 or whatever you want to call him has finally took that "step" of faith and is walking. Now I forever will have to be running until he graduates. Well he's enjoying it, most of the time until he falls and hits his head once again leaving yet another bruise. Little does he know that that is what will continue to happen throughout his life. We'll be on top of the world then we'll hit a bump and fall down. We hope to teach him that God will always be there to help him back up and that He'll never leave us even when we do make mistakes. For now, my arms are His arms to gently lift him up and encourage him on.

Our Family

2007-09-20T05:25:00.000-07:00

Here is our most current picture taken at Sunnyside's annual parade. Much to my regret they all show their "winnings" from the parade route.

Cannon Beach 2007

2007-08-22T16:49:00.000-07:00

Our favorite place to go, Cannon Beach, OR. Our family has gone there ever since we've been married (12 years) and Steve's family has been coming for 30 some years. What a wonderful place to get renewed. The speakers at the Conference Center were as good as usual, the kids program is wonderful and the Coffee, well we indulged every day, whether home made (we brought our espresso maker) or from Bella Cafe. We played on the beach, took naps, walked a lot and enjoyed the sunshine that was out more often than not. Steve and I celebrated our 12th anniversary while the Newlyweds (Gene and Carol) watched all the kids. We took a bikeride on the path at Fort Stephens and ended up at the beach with the skeleton of a boat. God blessed our time with refreshment and renewal.

2007-08-10T07:27:00.000-07:00

A summer afternoon with friends.

The Wallers- Summer 2006

2007-08-08T07:15:00.001-07:00

Here is our family photo from August 2006. We are headed to the beach very soon and we'll get an updated family picture.

Five is perfect for Steve and I, each one is a blessing and great addition to our family. God continues to bless, even through a year of many changes and obstacles His faithfulness remains.

Batman Arrives

2007-08-08T07:06:00.000-07:00

Batman arrived at our house yesterday in all his glory. Of course he was riding a bicycle and as proud as he could be. After spending quite a few hours at a friends house while I cleaned our carpets, the kids brought home a few treasures on loan from friends, Thanks, Shannon!

The Party was Successful

2007-08-01T07:04:00.000-07:00

We did it! and it was beautiful. This last weekend we celebrated my parents 50th Wedding Anniversary. With all of us kids spread out from Virginia to Oregon we managed to get it accomplished. It was an enjoyable time for all of us and my parents, seeing old friends and connecting again. My dad was a pastor in 7 different churches so we were able to contact many of their friends from each church. My parents renewed their vows as well. When we first mentioned renewing the vows Mom said, "I meant it the first time I said it, why do I need to say it again?". Dad talked her into it and it was beautiful. Pastor Marshall led the vows and made it very light hearted (since our family gets so emotional). They even cut the cake and they both were a mess. So many people have been touched by my parents faithful ministry to the church. Some were able to share when we had an "open mike" time and some wrote down on memory cards memories they had with them or how God used my parents in their life. Through the joys and sorrows in the last 50 years my parents remained faithful to one another, something that is becoming rare in our society. Thanks Mom and Dad for your wonderful example in front of your kids and all those around you.