Can't wait!

Oh, how I'm looking forward to tomorrow! I believe the boys are clueless as far as Roger coming home tomorrow, and I can't wait to surprise them!

Roger passed his two hour oral exam test today and his flying test! Praise The Lord! Although he hasn't passed the class yet, passing these two tests is a good indication that he's on the right track! :)

Today was a busy day with dentist appointment for one child, working on the bridal shower details, and trying to tidy up the house. The boys went to Vacation Bible School again, and they had a great time.  I had a great walk with a friend and a great visit. I missed our church tonight, but felt it was best that I pick up the kids on time from Vacation Bible school. My parents have allowed two boys to sleep over the last two nights, and I try not to take advantage of their kindness. So, I decided instead of trying to fit in going to our church, I'd just spend some time with a friend. And it still think that was a good choice for my time.

 You would think that after being apart from the kids for a few hours, I would feel refreshed and revived. I do, but sometimes it doesn't seem to last long! All the kids are tired, and they often forget that there are five of them and one of me! However, I know that they are very tired! By the time we arrived home, three out of five children were crying! Trying to feed a hungry baby, direct children to bedtime routines, correct a child with a bad attitude...let's just say, my attitude needed adjusting by the time it was quiet around here!! Thank The Lord, that Roger is coming home for a few days, as my sanity needs him! Garett, Chandler and Wyatt, all had tears at some point today because they miss daddy. It was really hard not to tell them about the surprise, but I'm making myself be quiet...yeah, that's a change!! :)

Anyway, this mama is tired and a little grouchy, so I'm off to bed!

Life on Tuesday

Well, we made it past Monday! :) I am not usually a fan of Mondays as it seems like the house has managed to have a tornado over the weekend! 

However, this week my parents church is running Vacation Bible School from Monday to Thursday! I love Vacation Bible school! :) I love the fact that my kids are learning about Jesus, and God's Word...and having a great time while doing it! But mostly, I love Vacation Bible School because it's time    alone...that's not a very spiritual reason, but it's reality!! (Well, mostly alone, since I do still have to take Emma!) I have had two incredibly enjoyable evenings this week, and I feel like I have used my time wisely. On Monday, Emma and I drove into Oshkosh to have dinner with our friends, the Shuberts. Jenna and I had a great visit, although it was too short! I left her with all the supper dishes to wash, but we did fit in a two mile walk with our babies. :) Jenna has become such a dear friend to me, one that I pray for often, think of regularly, and I always look forward to spending time with her! 

My parents also let two of the boys stay overnight, so it was just Wyatt, Travis and Emma last night. The kids slept in a little this morning, so that was nice too. I finally got caught back up on my Bible reading, and  I even drank a whole cup of coffee! :) 

My sister came over later in the morning, and we headed up to Appleton. Since Hannah will be coming to Wisconsin for a few days, we are planning a wedding shore for Friday night. It was an adventure, and a long day for the kids, but I think we have everything we need for the shower. :) 

Tonight was Vacation Bible School again, and when Chandler asked if he could go again, I sweetly said, "yes". What I meant was, "of course you're going, sweet child, and all your brothers with you!!" :)

Tonight was a special night as I got to spend some quality time with another friend of mine. My pastors wife is also a dear friend, and we enjoyed a night of a great walk, awesome company, and a well behaved baby. :) It doesn't happen nearly enough, spending time with this dear sweet friend, but it makes me treasure the times we do get to spend time together.

In Rogers news, he would appreciate prayers. He has a two hour oral test tomorrow, as well as a flying test in the afternoon. Please pray for clarity of thought, peace of mind, and that he will do well as pass this segment of the class. We are moving forward...even if sometimes it's only an inch at a time!

In funny children news: my sister, Hannah, gave the kids a wii. I wasn't sure if this was something I really wanted for the kids, but we decided to try it out. Well, the wii came with the wii sport game, and an exercising workout game. What's awesome is that my children haven't discovered yet that the wii could play other games! :) I love the fact that the only things that they can do with the wii is burn energy and tire themselves out...I hope to keep them from figuring out otherwise for a long time!! :)

Mountain tops and valley experiences.

As I walk through life's journeys, I've discovered that God always has a perfect plan and impeccable timing. However, sometimes my mind has a hard time accepting God's way of doing things. As I grown in my walk with The Lord, I've come to realize that after every mountain top experience, there will be a valley. I believe that God allows us to have the mountaintop moments, so that we can see His hand a work; however, God gives us the valleys to help us grow and to depend on Him. 

Last weekend was a fabulous weekend with great memories with my husband. To be honest, getting up this morning, helping five kids get dressed for church, breakfast made, preparing for Children's church...well, life stunk! (I had a different word there, but since I don't allow the kids to say that  "something sucks", I guess I won't either!) I felt emotional, tired, and just plain weary. The weeks are getting long, I can't remember if I'm coming or going, the kids are getting anxious, and I can totally feel this valley experience! But, God allows these moments to happen too, and I believe it's to show me how good He is to me. 

We arrived to church a few minutes later than we usually do. After dropping all the kids off at their Sunday School classes, I put Emma in the nursery. My dearest and closest friends know to look for me in there first, and sure enough, they found me. :) I spent some time explaining the trip and it's highlights before I could feel the tears swelling up. My dear friend, Jenna, gave me a sweet hug and and encouraged my weary heart. We spent the Sunday School hour visiting and talking, but I know that God allows that too. :) 

Secondly, while I was visiting in the lobby, I noticed a visitor to our church. This man was someone whom I had seen before, and he is a very dear family friend. Our friend, Art, all the way from ALASKA, had come to the air show this week! I hadn't known that he was coming, but it was a delight to my heart to see him again. We only got to visit a few minutes, but I'm dearly hoping and praying we can meet up together this week. I only wish that his sweet wife, Damaris, would have been able to come along! It's awesome to think that Roger is coming in this weekend, and hopefully, we will all be able to get together and fellowship with Art. My heart is happy! :)

Thirdly, after church, I went upstairs to gather up my children and to have them say hello to Art. They were thrilled to see him, as Wyatt even gave him a hug...and Wyatt is not the "huggy" type! Garett wasn't around, so he was very disappointed to not have seen Mr. Art. However, after talking a few minutes, my friend, Autumn, asked about our trip. Since she had been on vacation too, we talked about our trips, and our fun memories. Once she asked how Roger was doing, I started to cry. I know it's partially because I'm very tired...but this is getting long...I want it to end....I don't want to be a single parent...I need my better half...and the list goes on. It was nice to just have someone to hug me, cry with me, and encourage me. I'm blessed to attend an amazing church that I feel loved at even when I'm an emotional basket case! :)

Fourthly, we were taken out to dinner! This is amazing for a variety of reasons...one, I have five small children; two, we are rarely treated to dinner even when Roger is here, so for me to be asked along with small children...it's pretty much a miracle! :) Our pastor and his wife, along with their five children, treated us to dinner. It was nice to not have to think about lunch, and to have all the children fed. I realize that I'm probably a little biased, but I think the kids did pretty good at a restaurant, on a Sunday afternoon, when they're tired! It was a good time of fellowship and a special treat for our family. Then we could head home with children that are fed and ready for a nap. :) 

It's not all roses for Roger either. He had a rough day of flying last night, and it can tell he misses the kids terribly. Roger is not overly emotional, but he did have tears when he talked about how much he misses his kids. 

I definitely don't know what the future holds, but I know that we will enjoy the mountain top experiences, endure the valleys, grow in our relationship, and step out in faith.

Family!

This week flew by, practically before I could blink! 

I spent last weekend with Roger, and on Sunday I had the opportunity to visit his church down there. It's not a big fellowship of believers, but the people were very friendly. They also seem to really like Roger and I know that many of them pray for him. It was good to worship The Lord with other believers, and to get to meet the pastor and his family. 

On Sunday afternoon, we did laundry, ate lunch together, and did grocery shopping. We put the laundry in the washer, walked to the Mexican diner, walked back and put the laundry in the dryer, and walked down to the grocery store while the laundry was drying...it was a very efficient afternoon! :) I like grocery shopping, and Roger was more than happy to let me grocery shop for him, as it's definitely not his favorite thing to do! :) 

After those things were done, we took a drive around the area, while Emma napped. We headed back to church for the evening service, and I enjoyed a good conversation with the pastors wife, Kristen. Although neither of us were ready for the weekend to end, we headed back to pack up and spend some time walking on the beach. It was a great, relaxing few days and a good reminder of how much I miss my husband! Saying good bye on Monday morning was difficult, but it's nice to know that he will be flying in to surprise the kids in just a week. :) 

I left Florida on Monday morning, and I was supposed to arrive in Charlotte at 1:15. However, due to a thunderstorm in Charlotte, all planes were grounded. But, since we were all already on the plane...we got to wait...and wait...and wait... We finally took off from Florida around 2 pm. Emma did fine for the first hour, slept for the next hour, but by the third hour she was getting rather loud about her confinement! Thankfully, the plane wasn't full, so the seat next to me was empty. Emma at least had some space to stand up, but it was still a long afternoon. It was nice to finally get back to the boys, and although they missed me, they did very well for Aunt Jen. I'm so thankful that she was willing to take on four boys for the weekend! 

My sister, Hannah, became engaged over the weekend, so that was exciting news for our family! She's getting married in October, so it looks like we will be taking one last trip to North Carolina. The boys will be thankful that they get to miss a few days of school for the wedding. :) 

We left North Carolina on Wednesday afternoon. I knew the trip going home would seem longer, but the only way back is to drive! :) We made it to Lexington, Kentucky. Since that was about seven hours, I was happy we made it that far! The boys got to swim for a bit, and Emma was thrilled to be out of the car. The last forty minutes of driving, Emma was so mad that her eyes and cheeks swelled up. She screamed and cried like I've never seen before, so we were all glad to get to the hotel! We didn't get on the road as early as we would have liked on Thursday, but by 8:30, everyone was in the car heading North. It was a long day, but we did arrive safely to Nana and Papas house by 7:30pm. The kids were so glad to be out of the car, and so were we! The boys picked green beans from the garden, rode bikes, and enjoyed freedom! 

SATURDAY, July 26

Well, today was a catch up day! I find myself still working at putting things away, doing laundry, and emptying out the truck...and I'll need to play "catch up" for the next week; yet I'll still be behind! :) My dad and sister cut the grass, fixed the swimming pool, and weed whacked the yard for us today. I'm so grateful that my family has consistently and patiently helped out this summer! We also went to the farmers market today and feasted on fresh vegetables and fruit tonight for supper...delicious!! 

The kids are still a little travel weary, and they are content to stay at home and play with toys, build forts, ride bikes, catch bugs, and annoy each other! I can honestly say that I do enjoy these young years, but I do get weary of being tired! :) 

Roger had another late night of flying tonight, so he could use your prayers. He is done with the classroom part of ground instrument training! But he hasn't passed the class until he takes the written test, the oral test, and the flying test. So, we still need prayers. :) 

Swimming, Sun, Bikes, and Blueberries

Since we've arrived on Monday evening, the kids have spent over twelve hours in the pool! They are becoming like brown skinned children, and they are loving every minute! Papa brought their bikes along so they have been getting up in the morning and riding their bikes. Also, right out the front door of the apartment we've been staying at there are several big blueberry bushes. The berries are just coming on to be ripe, and as fast as they ripen the kids scarf them up. They have also been eating fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, corn, and squash fresh from the gardens. :) (The boys have been inhaling the food since we've arrived...probably from all the excercise they've been doing!!)

Emma has been eating lots of food too...the boys keep bringing her blueberries. They dump the blueberries on the floor in front of her and then leave her there to eat the blueberries. :) She sits contentedly eating the berries and then she pulls herself up by the window and hollers for more berries!    It is so fun to watch! :) 

Roger has another test tomorrow; and although it is just another staging test, he does need to pass! Please pray that he can pass especially so that he won't have to study a whole lite while Emma and I are there. :) I do plan to tell the boys tomorrow that I'm going to visit Daddy, so please pray that it won't break their hearts to hear that they are not going. :( I know it will be tough on them, but Roger and I need this time together. 

On a note of praise, Roger was able to get a ticket to come home for four days at the end of July. I am super excited that the kids will get to see their daddy, and I can't wait for them to find out. I would love to surprise them on the day that he flies in, but we will see how tomorrow goes as I might end up telling them tomorrow. 

My sisters and mom will be watching the boys while Emma and I are visiting Roger. I'm specifically praying that the boys will have a great time, that they'll get enough rest, be obedient, and enjoy doing a few new activities. 

As for me, I'm looking forward to leaving the kids for a few days (at least most of them :). It will be good to visit in person with my husband, enjoy adult company, and have a few days with just us...and Emma. 

July 17, 2014

The boys spent the majority of the day in the pool..again. However, they are looking a little peaked from all the sun, so I think they will have to find something else to do tomorrow! :) 

Aunt Jen has some fun activities planned for them like a children's museum, indoor playground, and bowling. I'm sure that they will be fine. It was very difficult for two of the boys, Chandler and Wyatt to hear the news about me leaving. Garett rolls with life pretty well, and as long as he gets to eat and swim, he's usually content. Travis seems a little oblivious, so I'm hoping he will have a great time while I'm gone. Chandler and Wyatt were heart broken, and I was in tears as well. I didn't tell the kids about Rogers upcoming visit, as I would love to surprise them. 

July 18, 2014

Emma and I left early this morning for our Florida visit. Emma screamed during the takeoff, but then took a forty minute nap. She was much happier when she woke up, and she was fine during the landing. She willing went to Roger, but she never took her eyes off of him for about twenty minutes...she just watched. :)

Roger and I are enjoying sunshine, long conversations, and beach water. It's almost like being on a honeymoon...except we have a little girl along! :) Because Emma is along, it limits what we can do...no airboat ride, kayaking, or riding on jet skis; but that's okay. We are still having a great time, and we spend less money since Emma is with us. :)

Roger was able to get a really good deal on a hotel on the beach, since it's actually the off season here. It's close to the beach, and we've done lots of walking along the beach. Emma loves the water, but she always want to eat the sand! 

Also, Roger passed the placement test he took on Thursday, which was awesome because it meant that he had a study free weekend...just for us! God is good! 

Travels

We (myself, Jennifer, Garett, Chandler, Wyatt, Travis and Emma) left for North Carolina as soon as church was done on Sunday afternoon. The truck was packed and ready to go and the kids had been anxiously waiting to leave since about seven am. (Sitting in the truck waiting is NOT going to get us ready any faster!!) However, it was finally time to leave for church and everything was packed...we were even on time for church. :)

I was helping in children's church, and the kids had strict instructions to not wander off after church...I didn't need to worry...they were in the truck as soon as church was over. :) We had barely left the parking lot when the boys opened their lunch boxes and started eating, and they've continued to eat most of the trip!

Our first stop was the Wisconsin/Illinois border, where everyone got to get out and play for a few minutes. (The days of five minute bathroom stops are not in existence for our family right now!) Thirty minutes later all the puppies...I mean kids...were back in the truck. We drove another 130 miles and stopped at a rest area in Indiana. Wow! Nasty! The bathrooms were disgusting and it's pretty bad when the kids notice how dirty the bathrooms look and smell!! I was planning to let the kids play for a bit, but since the bathrooms were dirty, the Mosquitos terrible, and a big German shepherd dog was wandering around without an owner; we decided to make it a quick stop! Back in the truck heading for Indianapolis, we started looking for hotels to stop for the night. We made it to the south side of Indianapolis before we stopped for the night. Since that was a seven hour drive with two stops, I think the kids did great. They were able to go swimming and play for a bit before Nana and Papa arrived at the hotel (they left after their church dinner but made better time without any kids:)

Thankfully, my parents let two of the kids sleep in their room, so that helped us all get a better nights rest! We got on the road this morning about 7:30, and we continue to drive steadily South. 

FINALLY...we arrived! About 6pm. We arrived in Newton, N.C. In time for the kids to spend a couple of hours swimming and burning off cooped up energy! It was late by the time we all were in bed, but I'm so thankful we arrived safely...and so are five small children! :)

Joy

Choosing joy can be difficult at times. Like when the toilet is plugged, children are whiny, I'm grouchy, the air conditioner breaks on the car, the lawnmower refuses to do its job, and everything seems "off". 

It's at these moments that I have a choice...joy or jumbled (my word for 'stirring up the pot and making everything worse') :) Our pastor preached a sermon on Sunday night about "when Jesus is asleep". To keep it short, the basic gist is that even when Jesus was asleep in the boat, He still knew what was happening. Because he's God, He could have rescued the disciples from the storm earlier, He could have never allowed the storm to happen; however, He is God! There are times when nothing seems right, everything is jumbled, and yet, God isn't caught be surprise. I need to trust Him to come to my rescue right on time, which He will do in His perfect time. If we didn't have the valley experiences, the we wouldn't treasure the mountaintop moments nearly enough. So, for this moment...I'll choose joy. I'll also choose joy because all my children are sleeping, and the house is quiet! :) 

We had a rough night last night. Chandler started crying while talking to Roger on face time. I know Chandler hasn't been feeling that great, and his emotions were strong. It was a difficult moment for all of us, but thankfully we have a fresh start today. My sister, Jen, came over to watch the kids this afternoon so my mom and I could go to a hair appointment. I will say that getting my hair done, and not feeling so "mommy blah", does help my dispostion. :) And Roger likes the hair cut, so that's always good too. :)

And now, off to bed. Roger will be flying again tomorrow night, and we would appreciate your prayers for good weather and a good flying lesson.

July 12, 2014

It's been a busy week with plans to leave for North Carolina after church tomorrow, a wedding that Emma and I attended, a swim date with some friends, and everything else that is required to move a household forward. Today was a day filled with preparations! I know that the kids are super excited to be going to visit in North Carolina, but I want to do a good job with managing our time and not getting too busy or too bored. 

I have some very sad children tonight, as the pool now has a hole in it. One of the kids was trying to build a fort near the pool, and accidentally poked the pool with a metal rod. :( I think it can be fixed, but since I'm not for sure, I didn't say anything to the kids. I figure I'll let them be very sad for the choices they. made in not taking care of their stuff before I try to fix it. Sometimes responsibility has to be learned the hard way...at least with our boys!!

The frogs, toads, crickets, and other bugs around here are probably rejoicing that the boys are leaving! :) I told the boys today to release all the toads, frogs, and bugs that have been caught in recent days and let them go. :) My cooler is cleaned and sanitized again with no toads or grasshoppers. :)

I've tried to plan ahead for the trip and I think I've packed more food than clothes! I'm very excited about getting to see Roger, but know the kids will be disappointed. Garett thought that Roger was meeting us in North Carolina, so he was bitterly disappointed today and my heart was breaking. There is a slim to slight to none possibility that Roger MIGHT be able to come home for a weekend at the end of July. There will be a break in classes and maybe we can work it out...will you pray with us?!

My huge prayer request that God answered this week was in getting our transponders for the Illinois toll roads. This will save us lots of time and money; however, the email stated that it would take two weeks. I figured it was still a good investment as much as we travel, but God answered my prayers and we got them in the mail today! Yay! God is so good to us!

Please pray for safe travels, children to ride well, a great visit, and a time to relax...maybe? :) 

Pictures and praises!

Roger passed his written test in his instrument class yesterday!! Although this is only a placement test to make sure the students are grasping the material, it's good to know that he is understanding the class! Thanks for your prayers!

Myself and the kids, along with my sister, Jen, will be leaving after church on Sunday morning to head to North Carolina. The kids are so excited to go, so pray that we will have safe travels and a great time. From there, I'll be leaving on Friday for a short trip to Florida. Roger and I have some decisions to make, so please pray for direction and wisdom. 

SUNDAY, July 6

It was a great day to be in the Lords House. I'm thankful for the opportunity to listen to good preaching, fellowship with believers, and be encouraged in Gods Word. 

Unfortuntately, the devil seems to work overtime on getting me to feel discouraged and frustrated with the small people around me. I miss having adult conversation, morning cups of coffee with my man, strong arms that hug me and encourage me, my best friend, and someone to help me direct, encourage, and correct small little people...who are strong willed and determined! It was a long day today, and by the time Roger and I finished our face time talked, we both had tears in our eyes. I know Roger misses us terribly, and this has been a challenging time in our lives; however, I firmly believe that God is molding and shaping us both to be more like Christ. 

However, for now I'm grateful that it's bed time. I'm glad tomorrow is a fresh start. I'm thankful that I'm tired enough that I probably won't hear any "strange" noises; although my husband says they're all in my head. I'm delighted that the Fourth of July is behind us, so hopefully no one will be shooting off firecrackers at midnight. I'm thankful that God understands our weary hearts. 

Roger has a test on Monday for his instrument rating class. Please pray that he will do well and be encouraged in his flying. Thanks

Happy Fourth of July!

JULY 4, 2014

How is it possible that the Fourth of July is already here?! Today was a day full of activity, excited children, eating, and visits with family and friends. I have some exhausted children tonight, and there were no arguments when I said it was time for bed. 

Chandler was up at 6:10 am. This morning to see if it was time to go to the parade! But since this mama wasn't ready to get up, back to bed he went. Everyone was up by 7:30, and anxiously asking when we were leaving for the parade! Thankfully, the boys had chores to do, and I had cleaning to do for the cookout we hosted this afternoon. Finally, it was time to leave for the parade! Omro was very crowded by the time we arrived at 11:20, and I was very thankful that I had set out the chairs last night!   It was a challenge to get five kids maneuvered around people and obstacles without losing any of them, but we did it! :) We met up with our friends, the Shuberts, and Uncle Mark, Aunt Allison, and Uncle Dale. The weather was beautiful today, so we weren't roasting at the parade like we have been in years past. The boys had a great time gathering candy, except Travis. For whatever reason, he didn't want to pick up candy. He asked me to do it for him, and I said, "no way!" He just sat and watched the parade, but he seemed to have a good time. Emma was very good and didn't start fussing until we were back to the car. :) 

Uncle Mark, aunt Allison, and Uncle Dale were also at the parade. After the parade, Garett got to go home with them for a bit, so he was very excited about that. We had family and friends over for a cookout about 3:30, and it was a great time of fellowship...and way too much food!! Thankfully, I did get to go on a walk with two very dear friends,  but I doubt it balanced out how much food I consumed! 

Uncle Mark and a friend brought over fireworks, which I was thrilled about! Seriously, I meant that the kids could have fireworks in their own back yard, and no need to go anywhere else! :) the Mosquitos were terrible, but the kids had a great time! I know the boys are missing daddy today, so I'm glad that they had a fun day.

When I asked Roger what his plans were for today, he said he was going to two picnics. He said the aviator college was having one, and the church he's attending was having one. He said it was two meals that were free, and he didn't have to do any cooking! :) I'm thankful that he was able to have an enjoyeable day, and spend some time away from the study books. 

The day was fun, I am missing my husband, and I am tired but it was a good day. Tonight I'm thankful for the land we live in. The government has it's flaws, there seems to be evil and darkness at every turn; however, God is still on the throne, America is still the greatest country to live in, and I am blessed to be a citizen of the United States of America!

JULY 3, 2014

It was a busy, ordinary day for us on the home front. My one request for tonight is a prayer for my husband. I know that he is fighting discouragement and loneliness. He could really use the extra prayers. 

For sum today was a day full of small errands and getting ready for the Fourth of July. I did baking, cleaning, and cooking for a get together we are having tomorrow. I also went to the courthouse to get Emma's birth certificate for traveling with me. The kids and I tried to mow grass....one mower didn't start and the other one ran out of gas. Apparently, the lawn is getting the better of me this summer!

We went and put out chairs for the parade tomorrow. In Omro, the parade is a big deal! I want to make sure the kids can see tomorrow, so we set out our chairs tonight. The kids are looking forward to tomorrow, probably because of the candy they can get at the parade! :) 

Emma is crawling, pulling herself to standing, and proving to the boys that she can make a big mess! :) I'm looking forward to her showing off all her new stunts to her daddy! 

Many thanks for the prayers, Sarah  

JULY 2, 2014

Today was one of those days where I had too many places to be and not enough time or manpower to get to any of them! My sister flew back from North Carolina today, and she needed to be picked up at the airport. Chandler also had a dentist appointment this afternoon, and of course, church and grocery shopping. 

Originally, I planned on picking up my sister, but since Chandler had a dentist appointment, I needed to take him to that. I planned on taking all the kids with me to the appointment, since my dad was working. However, Garett wanted to know if he could go along to the airport to pick up aunt Jen. Of course, my mom said yes. :)  But when she arrived to pick up Garett, two other boys wanted to go too. So Wyatt, Travis, and Garett all went with my mom to Milwaukee to pick up Aunt Jen. :) Needless to say, that made my afternoon much easier, and I didn't even plan it that way! 

Since we are leaving for North Carolina next Sunday afternoon, Chandler and I emptied out all the piggy banks around the house. We collected all the coins we could find, and took it all to the bank. I was shocked and amazed to find out that we had $134.00 in change! Woo hoo! Every little bit is progress, and Chandler was in awe of the new $100.00 bill we got from the bank. :) 

Emma, Chandler and I all went to the dentist appointment. Chandler did great, and he received compliments from the assistant on his behavior...happy mama! :) Next we headed to Oshkosh for errands and church. It was good to have (almost) one on one time with Chandler. He willing shared what he was thinking about, and chatted to be about all kinds of things. He called Roger to see if he could take me on a date (which was all his own idea!) I did have to pay for the date, but we used coupons and ate at Hardee's. :) I'm thankful for this little boy that God has given to us, and if thankful that God worked it out so we could spend time together. 

I had several blessings at church tonight. First of all, my secret pal gave me two bars of chocolate. I opened one and ate part right then...shhh, it's a secret! :) Secondly, another friend gifted me with some items from Mary Kay. I haven't used many Mary Kay products, but the facial cleaners that I was given are a special treat. It was a special encouragement to my heart today to reflect on how good God is to us. 

Roger had his first instrument flying lesson tonight, and he did so well, that the instructor gave him two lessons. :) While Roger has been struggling a bit with the classroom part, so far the flying part he has been able to master with ease. I'm thankful for all his hard work in studying, and he has a big test coming up in a few days; so prayers would be appreciated! 

 JULY 1, 2014

Reality is: I'm tired of single parenting. Reality is: these weeks are getting long. Reality is: my children need me. Reality is: God is good, and He will see us through! 

Tonight I'm choosing to rest in God's faithfulness, and that He promises to be a shelter in the time of storm, my Rock, my refuge, my Hightower, and to provide rest for the weary. 

I cleaned house for someone today, and my mom graciously watched the kids. It's much easier and faster to clean without them. :) I was able to get a lot of cleaning done in a relatively short amount of time. Actually, the house was clean and I was waiting for the clothes to dry and the dishwasher to finish; so I decided to go for a short run. I have to squeeze in what I can get, so I took the opportunity. 

When I got back to my parents house, Travis had fallen asleep on the couch. Apparently, he was tired. I gathered everyone one up and headed home. Emma was the only one who went back to sleep, but oh well, we did finish getting the grass mowed...with my dad's lawnmower. 

In exciting news, tomorrow Roger will begin his instrument training in the plane! He's far enough along in ground school, that he'll get to fly tomorrow. His slot of flying isn't until 10:00 pm., so he's probably going to have to adjust his sleeping habits a little bit! Please pray for him as he continues to train. 

In even more exciting news...I get to go to Florida! :) I'll be leaving for North Carolina on July 13, to visit family. While I am there, my sisters will be watching the boys while Emma and I fly to Florida for three days! I'm super excited about going, but PLEASE do not mention this to my children! For obvious financial reasons, we can't all go. Emma gets to go because she is still free, and no one wants a nursing baby for three days! :) I'll be leaving on Friday afternoon, and coming back on Monday morning. It will be a quick trip, but Roger and I are both looking forward to it. However, Emma needs a birth certificate, so pray I can get that quickly! I'm hoping that the boys will be busy with their aunts, the pool, the lake, and other new activities that they won't miss me too much. I do plan to tell them where I went when I get back, but I feel like it would be best not to tell them that mom is going to visit dad. 

Thanks for the prayers.