~ Week 5 - The Secret - and Some News ~

To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.

Be strong along the road of life, at work, at home, or anywhere life may take you. Try not to let things get the better of you. Think positive thoughts. I know this is easier said then done. No matter what we do in life there always seems to be a bump in the road, that may throw us off track. I remember growing up that my parents only wanted the best for us. I can remember having trouble with a science project one year & my parents saying just do the best you can. I can also remember in my own life I was offered a position as a line leader. Remembering I'm not sure if I can do this & my boss saying just do the best you can. So with anything now that I am a parent I tell my kids about school work or there small chores at home just do your best and as long as you put your best foot forward I'm happy.

Now for A Little News : Wanted just to let everyone know this past Friday was my 100th post. I was so busy I hadn't realized it, LOL. So I feel like doing a little something special. Be watching this weekend or first of next week for some type of giveaway. Thanx & hope you have a wonderful day. :)

~ Six Word Saturday ~

Here is how it works using six words , descibe your life ( or something )in a phrase.

Have Faith and Learn From Mistakes.

Also today as a extra six other words : Carly is four months old Today.

My youngest daughter turns four months old today. Hard to believe it's been that long already. She is a AWESOME Baby & has slept all nite since she was 2 weeks old. Happy four months Carly.

~ College Bound - Move In Day ~

Just wanted to share a little bit about our college kids. Today August 28, 2009 is move in day at college. Our children will be attending Mount Vernon Nazarene College in Mount Vernon, Ohio.



Justin and his girlfriend Christy she attends college there too. What a cute couple :)


Justin , he is 21 & a Sr this yr. He is going to be a athletic trainer somewhere along those lines. He also wants to write a book someday. He is a great guy and we wish him all the best.




This is Jessica & she is 18 & a freshman this yr. She is going to major in early child developement and someday wants to be a teacher. She is awesome with little ones and would be a great teacher and a Mom someday. I know today is a big step for Jess she is shy and going off to school has mixed emotions. We wish her all the best.

We love you both so much and to Justin your last yr of college and Jessica to just begining all the best to both of you !!!!!!!

~ Dad I Miss You - 23 Years ~

Today is August 28, 2009

It's been 23 yrs ago today my Dad passed away. It's me your daughter and I miss you so much. The grief is still there, so much has changed for me. Wow I know you already know that I'm a Mommy and 2 of my angels are already with you. I even got marrried remember when I said I would never do that, LOL. I even moved away and what I dislike the most is I can't come visit your grave anymore. I loved to plant flowers at the gravesite & just go sit on that hill & watch the horses at the amish farm & enjoy the peaceful feeling. I just want you to know I still miss you so much. I was thinking the other day about when I went to the nursing home after you passed away & talked to the social worker. I just wanted to see if you were scared to leave us or if there was anything she could tell me. I remember how you just wanted people to smile :) I did find out a interesting thing from her & I would like to share it today. I couldn't go see my Dad cause I had to work a double at my job, so I wrote him a letter & mailed it to him. At the time I thought this was silly , the only time I wrote a letter was when I was staying at my Grandparents in the summer as a child. It was just a general letter nothing real exciting but the social worker told me that's all my Dad talked about was how I took the time to write him a letter being 21 yrs old. It's made me stop & think it's just the simple things in life that mean the most. I still have the letter today & I will treasure it forever cause it made my Dad so happy. :) Grief is tough cause there's always the anniversary of the death, person's birthday, holidays & just special family things it never goes away. So if there is one thing I learned from this is live for today , tomorrow may not be & yesterday is just a memory. I can remember even in the last days of my Dad's life he wanted to see no tears just be happy for one day I will see you again where there is no pain or suffering. It was hard to watch him go & days like today are tough but I know even though I can't go to the grave today My Dad knows how much I Love Him.

~ Tell Me About It Thursday - Something About Your Family ~

Here it is again time for " Tell Me About It Thursday "

I got this from my blog friend Sandy. Each Thursday she adds a question or gives a idea to post on your blog. This weeks post is " Tell Me Something About Your Family " that your blog readers may or may not know about your family.

Well this is sorta interesting all the kids birthday's have a number 2 in them. I never thought about it until I was just a week away from giving birth to our last child. Actually my step-daughter Jessica that lives in Ohio thought about it. There birthday's are as follows :

My Step-children : Justin - July 2 , 1988

Jared - May - 29, 1990

Jessica - June 28 , 1991

My Children : Ridge - Feb 28 , 2000

Marie - March 27 , 2002

Jennifer - April 2, 2004

Carly - April 29 , 2009

Another thing that is pretty funny about the whole thing is usually the Mom sets a little pattern when kids are born sorta like a certain time of the month. I just think it's really neat & if Carly would have waited one more day Jess said it would have messed things up. Oh yes & just to remember those 2 babies we lost to miscarriages I bet they would have had a 2 in there birthdays too. It's really something people get so confused about who's birthday is when. I just think it is neat & thought I would share this with you today.

~ So We Don't Forget - Favorite Alone Time ~

Join us for " So We Don't Forget " it's an opportunity to document those precious moments .... sweet memories so that ..... You Don't Forget " :)


Today's Topic : Favorite Alone Time

A little bit about what you like to do when you get some Alone Time.

Well for me I would have to say after I get everyone in bed at the end of the day. The house is pretty quiet and I can watch TV or get my laptop out without someone wanting MOM. Don't get me wrong I love my job, but now since I'm a stay at home Mom. I really like some quiet time to sorta unwind after the end of the day. Sometimes just to sit and look back at WOW look how much stuff we did today and wonder how ????? I like to get on Facebook and take care of my Farms plus maybe play a game or two. Reading blogs is something I do or think about what I'm going to write about next on our blog. Sometimes if I have alot of energy I will bake cookies after everyone goes to bed. One thing I know at least I will have cookies and not half of them gone while baking them, LOL. I know that's the best part. I also think of more ways we can save money. I'm a big penny pincher and I might go through the ads 5 and 6 times just to make sure I catch all the stuff.

So all in all I love my quiet time at the end of the day. I try real hard to get to bed by midnite cause 5:30 or 6:00am comes really soon and then another day begins. Hoping you have a wonderful day. HUGS :)

~ Read With Us - Chapter 7 ~

Join us as we continue to read with Holly. Our book reading is In Faithfulness, He Afflicted Me by Lynnette Kraft.

When reading the first part of this Chapter Lynnette talks about asking God to help her daughter's problems to go away and if she has to live with them than do so without intervention. She also talks about God taking her boys because she couldn't handle the stress and problems. In the verses that she gives in this Chapter are 1 Corinthians 10:13 and 2 Corinthians 1:8-10.

What do you think of these verses and how do they relate to that line ?
I feel the first verse means, anything that comes are way, anything that tempts us, any tragedy. We are capable of overcoming it and achieving spritial victory. It doesn't mean it will be easy.The fact we need " a way of escape ". Whether it is a temptation to sin or temptation to doubt God, God promises that we will be able to overcome it.
Verse 2 means, that only through Christ we can handle anything. We can't tell him the way we want things, but just going with what he gives us & letting him have control and help us through the situation.

I to don't like the word birth defect.I feel that God creates everything the way that he wants. We all our special no two people on this earth are the same we all have differances but that's what makes us special. I can remember my Grandma telling me that as a child, we went to the store and Grandma said Don't stare he is no different than you. As I got older I understood what she meant and I find myself telling my children the same thing.

Have you had any moments in your life when you felt close to God ? I have had many times but my most recent was in my last pregnancy. I only had one day to decide to have the x-tra testing done to find out if there was a problem w/ the child I was carrying. I needed to hurry in case I wanted to terminate which I will never forget with my age factor the Dr almost encouraged it. I was upset and no way could I do that even if I wanted to. We decided that whatever God gave us we would handle with his help. In the end through lots of prayer things worked out but we both feel because we left things all up to God.

~ Short Answers ~

It's time for SHORT ANSWERS. To join in just ask the kid(s) in your life these five questions below and write down there answers word for word. Post'em up on your blog and link up.


What is your Grandma's name ?
Ridge - Marie

Marie - Marie

Jennifer - Marie


What is a hot dog made out of ?
Ridge - Pig

Marie - Beef

Jennifer - Beef


What's Archnophobia ?
Ridge - Sickness

Marie - Snakes

Jennifer - Don't Know


Who discovered America ?
Ridge - Chris Columbus

Marie - Chris Columbus

Jennifer - Don't Know


If you invented something, what would it do ?
Ridge - Make you run & play something

Marie - Float

Jennifer - Play House

~ MckLinky Blog Hop - Time To Laugh ~

I thought this was cute since I live in the desert now. I have always loved Snowman since I was a little girl. I ran across this the other day and thought it was too funny, now since it's really warm here in Nevada.

It's a Snowman at the Beach !!!!!




Hope you enjoyed it !!!! Have a great day !!!!




Start here with your content. Replace this paragraph, and everything down to AND INCLUDING the word: STOP. DO NOT REMOVE OR CHANGE THE CODE BEYOND THE WORD STOP BELOW! This week's Blog Hop theme is TIME TO LAUGH. Post your favorite joke, cartoon, funny picture or video. We all need a good laugh sometimes, what a great way to start the week.

See my example here: http://mcklinky.blogspot.com/2009/08/blog-hop-time-to-laugh-83109.html ...STOP

~ Week 4 - The Secret ~

To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true.


To me this means: standing tall when everyone is down

putting a smile on your face when you go through the worst.

looking on the bright side when there isn't one.

is being happy when everyone else is sad.

never giving up and always being there.

I can remember when my Dad found out he had cancer, at first there was fear but the next day there were smiles. I thought to myself how can you be like this. My Dad always tried to look on the bright side of whatever life handed him & he taught us all that especially when he had cancer. I know just before he passed away I found myself smiling & being happy cause that's what my Dad wanted no tears just lots of smiles. He said you can't give up on anything in life, always try to look at what good can come out of it. My cousin was on drugs really bad and my father's death turned things around and now she is a christian. So I think that's just one of the good things that happened plus it helped our family become stronger. Those words made it easier to let go of him when the time came. I try to be a happy person & look at the bright side of life, somedays it's tough but it is easier than a sad day.

This Tag below was made by a friend of mine on Cafe Mom for me & I just had to share & it is so true. Have a wonderful day !!! :0)

~ Six Word Saturday ~

Here is how it works, using six words describe your life (or something ) in a phrase.


Let God take care of everything.

Have a AWESOME Saturday !!!!

~ Tell Me About It Thursday - Special Grandparent ~

It's that time again ! Time for

TELL ME ABOUT IT THURSDAY

I got this from my blog friend Sandy. Each Thursday she adds a question or gives a idea to post on your blog.

This weeks post is "Tell about a Special Grandparent"

Well in the summer time when I was young I spent alot of time with my Mom's parents. I would go for weeks at times & stay as long as I could. They were AWESOME ! One special thing there was lots but this was special to me, How long they had been married ? They were married on July 26, 1922. Grandma was 18 & Grandpa was 19 & they were such a AWESOME couple. They went thru many struggles in life just like any of us. One good thing they were christians and you could see there love for the Lord and there love for each other. I remember there 50th Anniversary and thinking to myself that's along time to be married. I was only 8 yrs old at the time. Well for some reason not sure why our family decided for there anniversary in 1986 to have a surprise party for them. That year they were married 64 yrs. That same yr on Nov 28, 1986 my grandpa passed away. I can remember people saying that Grandma prolly would die of a broken heart. Well she didn't she lived til Sept 13, 1999. One thing I remember when they took my Grandpa to the hospital just before he passed away was Grandma wanted to make sure he had his own pillow and after he passed away, she slept on that same pillow every nite. I still am amazed at how long they were married and they were so young. To me that is a wonderful memory of both of them.

~ So We Don't Forget - School Days ~

Just in case you have been following me on Wednesday's Walk. Wednesday's walk from Lynnette's blog has changed to : So we Don't Forget

Today's Topic - School Days

Tell us a school memory from when you were a child - or school memories with your children. If your a homeschooler, feel free to tell us something about your home school day, ( a special activity, first day of school, field trip, etc )

I'm going to share w/ you a special day that happened July 20, 2009. Our Jennifer started Kindergarden, Wow so many emotions & so hard to believe the day had finally got here. I have always worked before & even though I seen my older 2 children go to school there first day. Jennifer was different, since our big move to Nevada, I have been a full-time stay at home MOM. So for the past 2 yrs we have gotten very close. It was a day that I never will forget & Jennifer I think knew that Mommy might cry so when I got ready to take her picture outside the school, she said
Hey Mom I have been thinking things are going to be alright & I will see you at 3:00.





Well the days have came & went for a month now & it's really something to see how much she has changed in such little time. She just has that school look about her & that Little Girl of ours has taken a Big step & doing very well. We are just so proud of her & can't wait to see all the changes this yr has to bring. One thing that my husband & I giggle about is everyday when I take her to school at noon she says Mom don't forget white sneakers & I will see you at 3:00. I asked her Jennifer do you know how many kids have white sneakers ? She said Mom you know what my "White Sneakers" look like. It's funny most kids say tennis shoes but not Jennifer it's White Sneakers. So that's my school days memory , hope you enjoyed it. Kids are great !!!

~ Read With Us - Chapter 6 ~

The book reading is for In Faithfulness, He Afflicted Me by Lynnette Kraft.


In this chapter Lynnette shared about Kyle's business venture & how it didn't quite work out as planned. How many things in life don't go as planned ? I can say myself I have had lots of ups & downs in life, lots of things haven't gone as planned but somehow good or bad, that God has carried me through. I know that Paul my hubby & I have done our share of praying when things are good or bad and just trust God. Just recently where Paul works has been laying off. Last week they cut another 30 people. Thank God our prayers were answered once again, he wasn't one that was laid-off. We both said we didn't want to see anymore people without work. That was one of the big reasons we moved from Ohio to Nevada. Work was slow back there & with lots of prayers Paul found a good job here. We both are praying that things get back on track soon.

Are there things in your life you imagined different ?

Yes there are things I imagined different, I never thought I would be living in Nevada. I'm a small town girl & Carson City is a big change for me.
Also after being told by Doctors since I was a teenager that I would never have a child is sometimes so hard to believe. I love all my children so much & being a Mom is the greatest part of my life.

~ Short Answers ~

It's time for the first installment of Short Answers! To join in just ask the kid(s) in your life the five questions below & write down there answers word for word. Post'em up on your blog and link-up. I got this from my blog friend Holly but I'm not sure on the linking up part.

Me - What year were you born ?
Ridge - 2000
Marie - 2002
Jennifer - don't know

Me - Why do people wear deodorant ?
Ridge - so they don't smell bad.
Marie - make them smell good.
Jennifer - so they get tickled.

Me - What would you buy if you had a million dollars ?
Ridge - Yu-Gi-Oh Cards
Marie - Buy wood to built a tree house.
Jennifer - Toys

Me - What is a President ?
Ridge - Obama
Marie - Obama
Jennifer - Obama

Me - Where would you like to take your family on vacation someday ?
Ridge - China
Marie - San Diego
Jennifer - Washington

This was really alot of fun, even Dad got a kick out of the answers. Kids enjoyed it too.

~ Make Me Laugh ~

Please join me in Make Me Laugh hosted by April, where everyone in blogland is welcome to come share in the laughter, share your funny story, article, photo, flim clip etc. It can be personal or public ..... just keep it clean !!

Here's a picture of a Cat taking it easy & enjoying a Pepsi & some Lays. One of my friends on Facebook sent it to me & I thought it was cute. I'm not a Big Fan of Cats but I thought this was funny !!! Just had to share !!!! Have a great day & I hope this brought a Smile to your face. :)

~ Totally RaNdOm Tuesday - Just a RaNdOm Day at The Croley's

It's been awhile since I did something RaNdOm for Tuesday so my son Ridge, that wants to be a writer some day decided on Just A Day w/ US !!!!



Carly just hangin out with her Bear !!!!



Jennifer & Marie just hangin out & havin Fun !!!!



Jared & Ridge just playing w/ some cards they collect & most likely dueling each other. They collect Yu-Gi-Oh cards & Pokemon & whatever else. Mom can't keep track, LOL. Don't mind the messy room it's my step-son Jared's & he doesn't like to clean his room, LOL.


Here is just a RaNdOm Day at our home during the week :

5:30 - Mom & Dad get up

6:00 - Kids get up & usually Carly does too.

6:30 - 8:00 - Eat breakfast, watch T.V, Dad plays on computer, & play with Carly or whatever.

8:00 - Dad takes Ridge & Marie to school than goes to work.

8:00 - 11:30 - Mom gets Jennifer ready for school & cleans & gets on computer & takes care of Carly & gets Jennifer lunch.

11:30 - 12:30 - Mom takes Jennifer & Carly in our wagon & walks Jennifer to school. It's exactly 1 mile from our home so I get a easy 2 miles in, LOL.

12:30 - 2:15 - Mom & Carly are at home & do whatever needs done. Get things ready for supper & etc ......

2:15 - 3:45 - Mom & Carly take the stroller & come to school to get everyone. Mom is happy to see all my kiddos & I got another 2 miles in from walking, YEA !!!!! The kids enjoy walking it's sorta there time to let loose from being in school. We even take a spray bottle & spray each other on really HOT DAYS here in Nevada. Well everyone except Carly !!!

3:45 - 5:00 - Homework & Mom works on supper & whatever else.

5:00 - 7:00 - Supper time & Dad comes home & play outside & whatever ????????

7:00 - 8:30 - Bath time & have a snack & maybe watch T.V

8:30 - Bedtime for all the little Monkeys except for Carly whenever she falls asleep usually by 9:30 at the lastest & she is out for the nite.

9:30 - Dad goes to bed

9:30 - 12:00 - Mom's quiet time to watch T.V & have computer time. If Jared is home he is usually up yet too.

Midnite - Mom goes to bed & gets ready for another RaNdOm Day w/ The Croley Gang.

Just to let you know not everyday to we follow the same thing just thru the week. I just like things to happen whenever but at times you do need a little something to go by. My favorite part of the day is picking up my kiddos from school & hearing all those stories first hand. I just love being a MOM , at times it's alot but it's all worth it in the end !!!

Hope you enjoyed Ridge's idea of our RaNdOm Day !!!!

~ MckLinky Blog Hop - Favorite Recipe ~

If you love something fast & easy for children this is really good.


Funfetti Cookie Recipe


1 - pkg Pillsbury Funfetti cake mix

1/3 cup oil

2 eggs

1 - can Funfetti Vanilla Frosting

Heat oven to 375

In large bowl combine cake mix, eggs, oil. Stir with spoon until throroughly moistened.
Shape dough into 1 inch balls, place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets. With
bottom of glass dipped in flour, flatten to 1/4 inch thickness.

Bake at 375 for 6 - 8 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Cool for 1 minute and remove from cookie sheets.

Spread frosting over cookies, sprinkle with candy bits from frosting. Let frosting set before storing. Store in tightly covered container.

Makes : 3 Dozen

Also I have used other cake mix like choc, cherrry chip, & yellow all kinds work great. It's easy & fast and what a AWESOME COOKIE !!!!! Great for kids to take to school for there birthdays less mess than cupcakes. They taste great too, sooooo soft & yummy !!!!



Start here with your content. Replace this paragraph, and everything down to AND INCLUDING the word: STOP. DO NOT REMOVE OR CHANGE THE CODE BEYOND THE WORD STOP BELOW! This has been the most requested theme, so we are going to do it again.Please put up a post with your favorite recipe, or if you don't have the recipe, a photo of your favorite dish and a description. Here's a sample post I did for you: http://www.mcklinkyblog.com/2009/07/mcklinky-blog-hop-for-july-21-2009.html Also, be sure to submit your recipe here too: http://www.mcklinky.com/recipes.asp! I WILL CREATE A MckLinky RECIPE BOOK, and online recipe center after this Blog Hop, AND MAKE IT AVAILABLE TO ALL BLOG HOPPERS FOR FREE! ...STOP

~ Week 3 - The Secret ~

To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them.


Feeling worthwhile is being appreciated for the tiny things we do in life. Like a peck from a child saying thank-you Mom, or like a hug from a friend, a kiss from a loved one feels good. Also helping someone who really needs a hand brings about good feeling in ourselves and others.

To me your friends are like a tribe. If all members push each other together to be stronger & practice what they preach, it's a beautiful thing. I see alot of my friends with great potential and try to encourage them. I just remind my friends of the " small things" in life that just reminds me of how important they are. For example I know when people remind me of how well my child is at school, how good that makes me feel. I know I try to be the best friend I can be & for all my friends be there in the good times & the bad. :)

~ Six Word Saturday ~

Here is how it works, using six words describe your life or (or something)in a phrase.


One Savior Three Nails Forgiven Forever.

Have a AWESOME Saturday !!!!

~ Walking With You - The Things People Say ~

Walking With You was created to help support those who have lost a child. Together we share stories, helpful information, scriptures, encouraging words. prayer requests, and more. Thank-you to those of you who have joined for the past few weeks.... for courageously sharing your stories. If you haven't joined us yet, and would like to, you are more than welcome. This week we are sharing about things people say:


I would have to say with both of my miscarriages , I had some nice things said but for the most part they were rude. My Mom & Husband & 3 close friends were the best. They were there if I just wanted a Hug or to talk or whatever I needed. I think the worst thing that stands out about my first miscarriage was the way the hospital treated me. I knew I was losing the baby when I went to E.R. but down deep I wanted them to do something to stop it even though I knew they couldn't. The first nurse I had was nice but the second one was rude. She told me if you have that many kids it was probably a blessing. I had 3 children at the time 6,4 & almost 2. I thought how could it be a blessing I still could have handled another child. I love children. Then she brought me in a pamplet just before they took me to surgery for a D & C. It was on miscarriage & she told me that should answer any questions I had. It was alot for me to take it that the baby inside me was gone & then to have been talked to that way. When I went back to work I had people tell me you didn't really need another child, you already have 3. Hey I know you feel bad but you gotta snap out of this. Also I remember hearing you find out who your true friends are when things are really bad. Well I did some people who I thought were my friends really weren't. Then there was some who maybe just didn't know what to say, so they didn't say anything which made me feel like they didn't care. All in all everyone handles grief differently & I'm the type that in time I like to talk about things. I may be able to help someone else.

Another thing that bothered me was my Mom when I had my miscarriage was that she was trying to help me but at the same time she had lost a Grandson. So I was sad that my Mom was having to hurt to.

When I lost again I was here in Nevada & my family was all in Ohio & my close friends. I felt so alone even though I knew the Lord was with me. We were still staying w/ my husband's sister at the time. She is 20 yrs older than my husband which made her 68. Well for one she told me at different times that she disliked girls. She told someone in the family it was probably a girl & that's all her brother needed was another child. She also said to just not worry about it, it wasn't meant to be. I got so upset & I just wanted to come back to Ohio where I had someone to talk to that cared. It was so tough but w/ the Lord & alot of prayers I made it. The words hurt I wish she had never said anything.

It is the toughest thing in my life that I have been through & I still have times when it hurts but I know that one day I will see my babies. I pray for all of you that have lost & just know that I care. HUGS

~ Week 2 - The Secret ~

To talk health happiness, and prosperity to every person I meet.

Well I'm a pretty happy person most of the time. Even if someone is having a bad day or a rough time, I try to find something good to say. I can remember when my father was in his last days on this earth. He was laughing & joking trying not to have us crying in his hospital room. He wanted good memories of all of us. I remember at the calling hours after my Dad had passed away, people telling us that he always had a smile or a good word to say to anyone. That's one of the good things my Father had taught all of us. Just try to stay on the up side of things in life no matter what. Smiling is better than a sad face any day.

~ Wednesday's Walk - A Wedding & A Baby ~

I'm taking a walk back to Feb 27-28, 2000. My friend Sherry was getting married in a small wedding just family & few close friends, on Feb 27, 2000. I had been staying w/ her going thru a tough time in my life. I had recently been laid off on Jan 4, 2000 but found a job on Jan 28, 2000. I was working alot & for just starting had been working 60+ hrs a week. I hardly had time to help w/ the wedding but somehow the day was soon coming together. I'm a crafty person when I have time & I made all the flowers for her wedding plus stand up for her. I finally found a apartment on Feb 20th. Exciting time things were falling into place. The day of the wedding came & I had worked all night came home to sleep but my back hurt sooooooo bad. Nothing like it had ever hurt before. I kept trying to think of what I could have done. I slept a few hrs & then got up to head over to Sherry's to get ready for the wedding. My back still hurt but I tried to not let it bother me, took some more Tylenol & thought this has to stop soon. We joked about my back & Sherry said maybe it is because the weekend before we took her out for her last nite single. I usually don't drink much but I didn't have to drive so I did & I know I had a good time. I know i danced alot & I love to dance. Time to leave for the weddding it's noon the wedding started at 2:00pm. I did Sherry's hair & her daughter's & mine. Just about time for the wedding my back got worse, I was afraid I wouldn't be able to stand up. Somehow I did it, don't know how I was in pain. The wedding went great & things were over at 7:00pm. Sherry knew I didn't feel good so after we got things cleaned up, she tried to talk me into going to the hospital. I of course said No I'm fine. I have to go to work tonite. I worked 3rd shift & told her I hate to miss work I just started there. I went home & couldn't sleep it was 9pm so I decided to call off of work. At 10:30 I felt worse & decided to give in & go to the hospital.

It is now 11:15 & I just arrived at the E.R. They were busy of course & the lady signed me in & told me to have a seat in the waiting room. The pain got so bad I could hardly stand or sit. It's 11:55pm & they take me back to a room in E.R. The nurse asked some questions & had me put a gown on. She asked me where it hurt & next thing there is the Doctor. He had me lay on my side & then I laid on my back. He said I have great news I know what's wrong with you. You have about 45 minutes your having a baby. I was in shock & what was I supposed to say........ They hurried & told me to O.B & so many thoughts went through my head........ I never was to a Dr would this baby be stillborn I know I never felt anything. I never took classes for a baby, How bad will this hurt, & lots of other things. While they were getting me ready for the birth they asked me if there was someone I wanted to call. I couldn't think...... I said No. I had just broke-up with the baby's father & who would believe me so late at nite. Sherry was staying at a motel in town but I wasn't about to call her. I prayed to God so hard that you help me do this. I knew he would be there. Well the time came 1:15am I gave birth to a baby boy. I was so scared I heard no cry & all I can remember is laying there praying. Finally they told me your baby is fine & being checked out. Wow it wasn't bad having him 3 Big pushes & he was out. I still hadn't held him but they had lots of tests to run & I was still trying to let it soak in that I'm a Mommy. At 5:00am my nurse who had held my hand during the birth came in. She brought me something to eat I was starved. I might have slept a little cause they were poking at me so much.After breakfast about 9am a nurse came in & asked me do you want to hold your baby ? I was still in shock & hadn't called anyone yet. I said Yes & it was so wonderful to think he was mine & so beautiful. I will never forget the first moment. I called Sherry right after lunch & told her. Took her 5 minutes to get there it seemed like.No one could believe it. I called my sister next & told her it made her become a Aunt for the 4th time that month. Her husband's sister had twins on Feb 16th & his brother had a son on Feb 8th. It was also leap yr that yr. Things all worked out & the hospital called our pregnancy care center & they came to the hospital with lots of stuff for us. It took some getting used to & my life changed so much,so fast. My special little boy Ridge Logan weighted 8lbs & a gift from God. I was always told I would never be able to have a child or carry one. I was 35yrs old. God was watching over us & everyday he is there for you & me.

One more thing before I close Ridge is 9 yrs old today & a very normal boy. He is also in a class at school for gifted children. He is very smart & I think I carried you without a Dr & we made it w/ God by our side.

~ Read With Us - Chapter 5 ~

Join us as we continue to read with Holly. Our current book is In Faithfulness, He Afflicted Me by Lynnette Kraft.

This was a good chapter for me to read. It made me stop & think alot about things in the past & how so many times I struggled. I can relate to what Lynnette said in her book about Kyle being into many things and not being able to spend time with the family. First of all I'm the people person in this family. I think with me it came from always having so much to do & when I met Paul, I didn't know quite how to handle help. I raised my older 2 children for 3 yrs alone. I had a full time job & 2 children under 3 to care for plus everything that goes w/ a home. I had a awesome sitter I thought til she became very attached to my daughter Marie & I was worried one day she would take off w/ her. Some of the comments scared me. Paul & I decided we wanted to be together & the job I had then was being his boss to a point. So I worked longer hours & he sometimes had to get the children from the sitter & care for them. We worked & met at the same place. I tried to go home & still do the Mom thing but sometimes it didn't work to well. After another child sometimes it seemed like both of us working was to much. I felt at times we never had time for much. Then I lost our first child, after that some things that mattered to me didn't anymore. Then Paul lost his job & couldn't find anything good. I went to work at nite at the newspaper & he took care of the house & kids. Then we decided to move to Nevada. He found a great job & I for the first time in my life could stay home w/ our kids. He was working lots of overtime & then it seemed like he was never at home but only to sleep. I lost another child & then here I am trying to do it all, it seemed like. Work took a little slow down & once again we were expecting. This time things turned out on the positive side. We had a baby girl. We both had been stressed during the pregnancy the fear of another loss. We both did alot of praying & trusting God together as a family.

What are some things you would like to do more as a family ?

We have been married since Dec 14, 2006 & I can said we do alot together. One thing I know we wish we could see his children from his first marriage but they are older Jessica will be a Freshman at Mount Vernon Nazarene & Justin will be a Sr at the same College. Jared his middle child resides with us & he works full time. I would have to say I would like Dad to go to the park more w/us. Most of the time it's just kids & me. I know after a day at work he likes to relax but I think sometimes it would do the kids good for him to go. we don't go everyday but w/ a baby it's not easy to just go & run with 3 very active children, LOL. I would have to say after losing 2 children & knowing how my oldest feels it's important to do those little things in life that may not mean so much to others. I'm glad I don't work anymore I love my time w/ kids. I too would take a boring day with my children anyday after some of the things I have been though. You really do look at life differently.

~ MckLinky Blop Hop - Favorite Photo ~

My favorite Funny Face - Jennifer

Ridge & Marie standing in Lake Tahoe last summer - July 2008

My Kiddos - Ridge, Marie, Carly & Jennifer


Little Miss Carly laying on a blanket in the grass & a nice breeze blowing. I'm only 3 months old.

I couldn't pick just one favorite so I added a few extra. Happy Blog Hopping !!!!














Start here with your content. Replace this paragraph, and everything down to AND INCLUDING the word: STOP. DO NOT REMOVE OR CHANGE THE CODE BEYOND THE WORD STOP BELOW! The next Tuesday Blog Hop is FAVORITE PHOTO(S). It's time to show off your latest photos that you love. Post them up, and don't forget to put captions so we can all enjoy them even more. See an example of the last photo blog hop here: http://www.mcklinkyblog.com/2009/07/mcklinky-photo-blog-on-tuesday-sample.html Also, if you would like me to consider publishing your photos in SeriousLife Magazine (www.seriouslifemagazine.com), submit them here:
http://www.seriouslifemagazine.com/submit_content_forms.asp?c=photos
...STOP

~ Make Me Laugh ~

Please join Make Me Laugh hosted by April, where everyone in blogland is welcome to come share in the laughter. Share your funny story, article, photo, flim clip etc. It can be personal or public .... just keep it clean.



AMISH PROM VEHICLE

My sister sent this to me around prom time this yr. I grew up in Holmes Co in the great State of Ohio. There were alot of Amish neighbors around us all the time. I never seen anything quite like this & I thought it was so cute. I myself just because I like to be different & have a good time would love to go to the prom like this & with the price of gas nowadays. Hope this brought a smile to your face :0)

~ God's Cake ~

I recieved this e-mail yesterday & thought I would share it on my blog. It is so neat. Hope you enjoy it too.

























God's Cake

This is about the best thing I've ever read as an explanation. We all wonder many many many times over WHY?



Sometimes we wonder, "What did I do to deserve this?" or "Why did God have to do this to me?" Here is a wonderful explanation! A daughter is telling her Mother how everything is going wrong, she's failing algebra, her boyfriend broke up with her and her best friend is moving away.

Meanwhile, her Mother is baking a cake and asks her daughter if she would like a snack, and the daughter says, "Absolutely Mom, I love your cake."

"Here, have some cooking oil," her Mother offers.
"Yuck" says her daughter.
"How about a couple raw eggs?" "Gross, Mom!"
"Would you like some flour then? Or maybe baking soda?"
"Mom, those are all yucky!"

To which the mother replies: "Yes, all those things seem bad all by themselves. But when they are put together in the right way, they make a wonderfully delicious cake! "

God works the same way. Many times we wonder why He would let us go through such bad and difficult times. But God knows that when He puts these things all in His order, they always work for good! We just have to trust Him and, eventually, they will all make something wonderful!

God is crazy about you. He sends you flowers every spring and a sunrise every morning.
Whenever you want to talk, He'll listen. He can live anywhere in the universe, and He chose your heart.








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"...As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Joshua 24:15

Six Word Saturday

Here are my six words for Saturday : Can't stop loving Family, Friends, Yourself.

Have a Awesome Saturday !!!

~ Walking With You - Sibling Grief / The Next Pregnancy ~

Walking With You was created to help support those who have lost a child. Together we share stories, helpful information, scriptures, encouraging words, prayer requests, and more. Thank-you to those of you who have joined us for the past few weeks ...... for couragously sharing your stories. If you haven't joined us yet and would like to, you are more than welcome. This week we are sharing on Sibling grief/ The next Pregnancy.


Just this Monday my son Ridge was dealing w/ the grief of my first miscarriage. It had been a while since he had said anything. I lost a little boy at 12 wks on Feb 10, 2006. Ridge was going to be six on Feb 28th. At the time he had many questions & I tried to answer them best I could. For the first yr, he talked about the little brother that he never got to meet. I remember telling him one day when this life is over & we will go to heaven, we will see your little brother. It was tough on him but he had 2 younger sisters & then he didn't mention it as much, but I know he keeps alot inside to. Mostly around holidays & on Feb 10th. On Monday we were walking home from school & the sky was beautiful, lots of fluffy clouds. Carly my youngest was in the stroller & a little fussy. Ridge calmed her down by singing Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. Next thing out of the blue he said Mom, Do you think my little brother can see us ? I said Yes he is in heaven. Next few words were Mom does he know about Carly ? Our new addition, she is 3 months old. I said Yes he knows we have Carly. I wish I knew what it was like to have a little brother. I thought for a monment he was going to cry. Mom he said How much longer til we get to see him ? I told him no one knows when Jesus will come back but we can hope that it is soon. Then he asked me Mom do you think about him & the other baby you lost alot ? I told him yes & I wonder what they would have looked like & things like that. Ridge said is it ok to talk about them ? I said it's always ok they are part of our family. He told me the other day at school they were talking about the clouds & it made him think of his brother & the other baby. He told me I'm always afraid I will cry or make you cry Mom. I told him crying is ok. It's good not to hold things in. Marie who is 7 didn't say much about our little talk but after we got home & all sort of sat down & had a little talk. Jennifer who is 5 really doesn't remember much but she still listened. It was just neat how he just opened up, it had been a while. With this past pregnancy he really hadn't said much just that he hoped our baby would be ok.

I think as a parent it is good to talk to your children & know that death is not the end. I told all of the children the other day afterschool that talking is good & keeping feelings inside makes you hurt even more. We are a family & just because they are not with us right now that they are a part of us. I told the children that if they feel sad & I may not be there with them everytime they want to talk, that you can always say a prayer to Jesus. Don't be afraid to come to me & talk. At the end of our little talk on Monday all the children said there own little prayer & then we sang a little song to the babies " Jesus Loves Me " Children sometimes amaze me at how the handle things.

~ 10 Interesting and Fun Things about Me ~

Just a few things about me,

1. I'm a small town girl at heart. Grew up in Amish Country Millersburg, Ohio. Now I leave in Carson City, Nevada. A big change for me.

2. I have 4 children ages 9, 7, 5 & 3 months. 2 babies in heaven. 3 step-children 18, 19 & 21. When we all our together we have so much fun.

3. I love to cook & try new stuff all the time.

4. I love candles & baskets. I could prolly start my own store for both, LOL.

5. Football & Baseball are something I like to watch.

6. I'm a stay at home Mom & I love it no better job that you can learn so much from. I know there's never a dull moment at our home.

7. My children attend a Yr Round School & I love it. They learn so much more.

8. I'm new to Blogging & I love it.

9. When I had my 1st child I went to the E.R. for a bad backache & came home with a baby. I had no idea I was pregnant. Someday i would like to write a book about it. It was so AWESOME !!!!

10. Most of all I love the Lord. He is always there for us.

` Wednesday's Walk - Mills Park & Kids

Kids just hangin out !!!!

Some of the playground

Marie & Jennifer & Ridge hiding in the background.


Ridge , Marie & Jennifer

Just thought I would share today the park we live beside in Carson City, Nevada. The name of the it is Mills Park. It's really neat because our apartment is right next door. They hold all of the little fairs there & most of the big stuff going on. It's so nice if we just wanta go there for a bit all we have to do is just walk over there. These pictures were taken right after we moved in there which was Feb 2008. One reason I like it is because they have to keep things watered a lot here since it hardly ever rains. So the park is usually always so green. One thing all of us miss from OHIO. In the picture where you can really see the sky, it is always that pretty blue. Well most of the time rarely do you have a cloudy day. The mountains are pretty here but I like them better with a little snow on them. Hope you have a great Wednesday !!!!!

~ Read With Us - Chapter 4 ~

This is Chapter 4 in the book we are reading " In Faithfulness, He Afficted Me " by Lynnette Kraft.

If you experienced labor what was your like ?

Well I have to say I have a easy time having children & had all 4 of mine natural. I wouldn't go as far to say I love having a child because it hurts but my labor isn't very long. My first child which was a surprise, I only had back pain during the day on Feb 27 went to the E.R at 11:00 & I had him at 1:15am on Feb 28th. My Marie I didn't make it too the hospital I had her at my friends. I didn't even feel like I was in labor & within a 2 hrs I had her.My Jennifer I went to the hospital at 7:30pm & had her at 8:30pm and Carly I got to the hospital at 4pm & had her at 6pm. It hurts only for a moment with me & lots of people told me I wish I could have a baby that easy. I do alot of walking & they say that helps to be active, but I'm not sure.

Do you know anyone whose lives have been impacted by CHD ( or as your own )? No

" To live in Christ and to die is gain "
How do those words spoken by Kyle make you feel ?

We can have such assurance and walk in such hope that our death is gain only, when we know what it means to live in Christ. Oh what gain indeed, for the child of God when he or she dies ! Physical death then is no more condemnation but, in fact, it is joyful enterance into tthat place that God has.

During difficult times where do you find comfort ?

I do a lot of praying & listen to Christian Music. Sometimes just taking a walk when I'm unsure about something or need to let the Lord speak to me. I find a lot of comfort in talking to my husband.

If God asked my permission " What would you say ? " I would say Yes because everything that happens , does for a reason. We may not understand right then but I believe God doesn't give you anymore than you can handle. I had a lot of concerns this past pregnancy plus the fact that the last 2 had been lost. I put my faith & trust in the Lord.

~ Week One - The Secret ~

Week One ~ The Secret ~

To be so strong that nothing can disturb my peace of mind.

Well Anxiety Prayers come to my mind. I pray a lot to stay strong when things are a mess. I remember laying in the E.R.and not knowing what was really happening other than I was losing my little boy. They just put me in a room & sorta just left me there. It was a while before anyone really came back & when they did they brought me a pamplet on miscarriage. Spirtually, prayers and my faith, helped me carry on so much. Without them , I believe it would have been even so more difficult to heal myself.I always feel a sensation of happiness and hope when I pray.

5 things I feel I need for a strong peace of mind :

1. Think Positive

2. Get Enough Sleep - sometimes this is tough for me, I'm a very busy Mom. I always have something to do, LOL. But then again who doesn't.

3. Try to find some relaxation time.

4. Do things as promised & get things done.

5. Focus on success and what you want to achieve.

I think all of these things together with the God's help keep things strong & not disturb my peace of mind.

~ Mcklinky Blog Hop ~ Encouragement

Here is my favorite life lesson,

Forget the past it has already happened, worry not about the future it has yet to come, concentrate on today, make every moment count.



To me this means the past is gone you cannot change it & there is no need to worry about the future it is not here. Today is what matters & make it count. Put your trust in the Lord & he will show you the way.



This week's Blog Hop is your favorite quote, spiritual passage , life lesson, saying, PHOTO or encouraging thought. Post your favorite or most meaningful, and then include a sentence or two about what it means to you personally, and how it can encourage other people in their lives.
See my example here: http://www.mcklinkyblog.com/2009/07/blog-hop-encouragement-842009.html ...STOP

~ Make Me Laugh ~

Please join Make Me Laugh hosted by April, where everyone in blogland is welcome to come and share in the laughter. Share your funny story, article, photo, flim clip etc. It can be personal or public ........ just keep it clean !!

My son Ridge is 9 yrs old & he has been in computer class at school. He was came home and showed me this image his teacher had showed them at school & I just thought it was too cute. I never thought of sending a e-mail quite like that ?????? I had a good laugh out of it & so did Dad. So I thought I would share it for the first Make Me Laugh !!!!!

I also had to add this my Jennifer who is 5 yrs old & the best monkey at our home. If the camera is out there is " Our Jennifer " making faces. I just had to share this and her shirt just happens to say Daddy's Little Girl.

Enjoy & I hope I made you smile. :0 )