Video after church

Who's Bible?

Who can guess who's Bible this is?

Happy Birthday Uncle John!!

Time for a BIG CHEERS!!!!! It's a double Blessed-- double Super -- double Wonderful double Great -- Day today!! It's Uncle John's Birthday (as well as Ellie's)!! WOW can you believe it? This is a great day!! Happy Birthday Uncle John!
Uncle John has really been a big part of our lives (these past few years)! He is so Awesome! He has taken so much time to do things and serve others it's amazing! He has sent and done so many things for us.....like.....sent us movies, made movies for us of family gatherings, calls to wish happy birthday's to each and every kid, calls just to say he cares and loves us, writes letters to the kids, and sends them the stamp so they can get their letters they write him back to him, teaches the kids tennis, pays such attention to whatever is on their mind, encourages us in our music, all the girls are sure they are his favorite! Wow, much more I know....he is absolutely GREAT, Yep Great Uncle John!
We love you and hope you had a great birthday, wish we could have been there to give you the birthday spankings you need....ohhh... HA!
Cheers! Take care of him all you family down there in Arizona! :)

Happy Birthday Ellie!!!

Ellie and Elvis!!
Whenever I think of Ellie, I always smile! She is such an example of joy, and kindness to all! God has been so good to us to give us her, what a blessing. She can make the funniest face's and say the very craziest things. I love the way she is....fun loving yet very concerned with the feelings of others. She is amazing at chess, and that means she has won the heart of my dear husband! :) He loves playing her. And when she wins it's so cute, "oh", she says, "You did really good, you were hard to play, ect... your so good. " She doesn't want anyone to be sad. Very sweet! So all in all I am sooooooo very happy to have Ellie as my niece. I love you Ellie! Happy Birthday!!

The early morning Cuties

I love the morning look don't you!! Mom got some new clothes for the girls and they love them. Cassie was soooo happy there was penguins on her clothes!! Could it get any better for Cassie...nope!

Praise God for my Christian Godly Loving Older Brothers

Last night I finished reading a book written back in the 1800's, 'Jessie Wells'. It was not a real big book but it was wonderful! The story line is about a young girl who is a Christian in a family that is not. She learns that her example is what the family sees, and that was is most important. She has many struggles with overcoming self and loving, being the Christian that God wants of her. She is encouraged to pray for her older brother and really desire to see him come to know the Lord. He is continually going to the bars at night and coming home drunk, a shame to the family especially the father. Through it all she is faithful to love her older brother, pray for him, and begins to truly desire his company more than the other friends she had. It was beautiful to see the change a younger sister could have on her older brother, which she thought would never make a difference. If you read Jodi's last posts, I think they were right on! We must encourage our young daughters, as well as us as mom's to never give up on our loved ones. They must come to know the Lord, to have salvation and eternal life. By Him all things are possible, we have our part to pray weep and wail and be there in love and encouragement to the unbelievers that they may find Christ Jesus!
All this to say I am so very blessed and thankful that I have such Awesome, godly and Christian brothers! Troy and Kenny have both been examples to me all growing up and have always been kind and gentle to both Jodi and I. I feel so blessed what I have grown up with, especially since many young ladies grow up with brothers that are ungodly rude and even dangerous to their sisters and or family.
Praise God that our young men, my sons and nephews are such godly men as well. I pray they would see the importance of loving and protecting their sisters as my brothers did! Young ladies be the virtuous women God desires of you and honor your brother and and listen to them, no matter if they be older or younger; treat them as important men in your life and they will more then likely act like one.
Another very important note is my brothers learned by example from our dad. He was EXCELLENT and absolutely amazing!!! I love him tons!

Loving Father and Earthly Angels

Where do I begin? I fear this post will makes Jodi's post's look like quick short notes...:) Oh my the overwhelming feeling that I have right now!
Things have been tight for us financially, which is fine, but then things just started to unravel all together. At least that is the way I was viewing it. I was trying to ignore the little things, but they all seemed to build up. I kept trying to keep going, keep reading the Bible, keep praying. I would ask Jodi why, why are we doing this. It was always something different. School, housework, being a good wife, Mannatech, loving others, housework, cars breaking down, the kids, honoring Steve, housework, lack of food, lack of order, housework....well you get the picture. Can you see the one I struggle with the most :) Anyway, I see now how blessed I am and I was. In all my selfish fog I could not see I WAS being blessed over and over again but I could not see it. How often these blessing would happen...Mom and dad would give us money for food, or to go out to eat. They would get the kids and us clothes and give us tons of Mannatech products. Granny (Steve's mom) helping with bills sewing new clothes or mending torn ones. Jodi continually encouraging me, don't give up, we are blessed. Kenny preaching all the amazing sermons he preaches. Steve working and trying so hard to provide for his family, helping out around the house and loving me so kindly. Vickie teaching the kids and giving them such joy. All my nieces and nephews always so loving and kind. Loving comments by my family on my blog. And my ever growing baby! Now kicking and moving so much. So many blessings I can't believe it!
But no, I could not see it. I was so focused on my little problems I could not see the amazing angles that were all around me.
Well, yesterday I could take it no more. I was a brat, a grouch and I feel terrible to say not nice to my sweet children. After trying to take a nap (and the kids coming in and waking me up for the third time) I came out in a huff. I would have drove away....but all three cars we have were all broken and not running. Is God good or what, well He's funny. Really I would not have drove away but the thought sounded good. Guess this sounds like a confession, but really it is a huge praise report!!!! Anyway, as I was saying when I came out of my room the phone rang and it was Jodi. She said, "how are you doing? " The tears came! I tried to cover it up, but she knew. She said "I knew it! I knew you were having a hard time today!" Oh I love my sister! We talked for while and she prayed with me. It was awesome. Then Granny came over with more sewing stuff she made for the girls and some shirts for the boys. Blessed again! Mom called and just wanted to say she loved me and check on me! Oh my what love!! The tears came again but I had to act tough again. After Granny left Steve had to go to town so I asked if I could go. He took me! Sweetie. I knew I had to repent to him. I had a lot of talking to do. We went to town. After a call I had to be on (which again God used to speak to me, "never give up". It was said...Winner's never quit and quitters never win!) Steve and I talked and it was awesome. Steve told me how all this struggle had been teaching him to rely on Christ. To find joy in trials, to trust that HE Christ Jesus is the one in control. We are to work with all our heart and know that He will reward. Sometimes it may not be a big sum of money, but the joy of doing the job well and right is the best reward. It was wonderful. He said it a lot better but you get the picture. Before we came home we had to go to mom's house and there we were met with Hugh and Jodi, Full of smiles and encouraging words, and some money for us. Wow, we could pay some needed bills. :)
So I came home, yes better, but it was still a struggle. I gave forced smiles but I was trying harder. Then today the Angles came and overwhelmed me! There was no hope for stupid me anymore!
Jodi, Liisa, Mom, Kaila, Karissa, Destiny, David, and Devin came over to clean my house. Mom, David and Collin took tons of my stinky laundry to the laundry mat. And all that while I was out with Granny who came to capture me and take me somewhere that was "a secret". To the grocery store!! She filled up two baskets full of food for us! My refrigerator is full, my house is clean, my mind is in a whirlwind! Oh then Mom took us all out for dinner, and Liisa gave me this beautiful card with words of love and a check. Ok the tears were still coming but this time they were of joy, humility and love! God is soooooo amazing! I can't believe I ever doubt what might happen. Why do I ever question if it's all worth it? It is! It is! How I love my family, how I love my Heavenly Father! Thank you Lord for your blessings! I am humbled by the angels that surround me. I want to pay everyone back, but how could I ever do that? I wish I knew, I love them all so much! Thank you everyone! The Goldman Family is in awe tonight. We are blessed beyond words! This is a Sabbath night to remember. Thanks!

Esther's 10

Well, Esther turned 10yrs. old, but NO, she is not old enough to get married! HA Esther Hope is such a wonderful niece! Such a great cousin to the kids and everyone loves her tons! I have been so blessed to do some schooling with Esther, before when we all did school together, and now in the writing class. Esther is so very smart, and always does her best! Her brains must come from her mother!! Oh know that is her looks must come from her mother. Oh wait, what comes from her daddy? I submit her happy smile, funny ways and quick wit. OK both her mother and her daddy have handed down plenty. She is perfect!

Esther I love you so very much! You know you are my....fav....oops can't say that! :) God has given you so much and I know you will love Him more and more as you get older. Keep being the virtuous young lady you are. Your gentleness is a beautiful quality. Continue to love God Almighty with all your heart, and remember I am your favorite Aunt!! :) P.S. Sorry this is late, but I love you just the same!!

3 Year old painter

The Goldman Girls

Grandma Dot is the Best

I said the girls had their birthday yesterday, and I thought I should put a picture of the girls from yesterday that I took at The Olive Garden. Grandma Dot took them and Jodi and I out....it was yummy! And yes, we did share the best dessert ever, the Black Tie Moose Cake! Thanks for Grandma Dot, as always she makes everything better!!!! God has blessed us so much to give us her! After that she took us to the mall and let the girls get a few presents, they loved it!

Happy Birthday Girls!

Today we celebrate Anna Goldman and Mercy Kruse. Cousins, born on the same day, only 3 years apart. We had a nice time taking them out to lunch (well, Grandma Dot took us....girls Anna, Mercy, Jodi , me and her out to lunch). After we went to the mall and they got boots, and some jewelry and hair stuff. It was a blessing! These young ladies are so sweet! They do have very different personalities but both love the Lord and are sweet young ladies! Love both of you two! May this year bring them closer to the Lord, and may their lives be for His glory in all they do and say.

Happy Birthday Destiny!!

Destiny is one of the most creative people I know. She is always helping her family, a true virtuous women in the making. Today she's 14, she looks 17, and acts 21....(OK well most of the time!) :) She has made clothes for my kids "just because", and lots of other things for others just because.... she is sweet. Every time I see her she gives me a hug, always a smile and sometimes I am even lucky enough to get her famous slap on the back, mostly only given to Karissa!! HA I know she love her Heavenly Father and desires to please Him in all she does and says. She is so friendly to everyone she meets and looks for the good in others. She is really blessing us all now with her sweet voice....YES she is singing like a bird...beautiful. Oh yes she loves clothes too, and can create outfits that could be on sale for a high price somewhere. She loves to shop...and best of all she shops like me, lots of clothes at a cheaper price, rather than one outfit at a very high price!! HA I just love Destiny! Thanks girl for being so sweet and honest. I love you lots Happy birthday!

I love hats, so I had to put this one on, is she the prettiest young lady or what!?! :)

Oh and and a side note....today at her little lunch party the waiter guessed she was 17....stinker...!

A few more birthday pictures!

29 Grandkids and the BEST Grandma Dot EVER!!!!

All the 29 grandkids lined up by age to read their birthday cards to Grandma Dot. How come my two boys are doing really strange things Alex and William?? Oh dear. :)

Little Kaylee with her crown.
Cassie, Mom/Grandma Dot (birthday girl), Katrina and Granny. Liisa bought the cute crown that says 60 and the necklace, along with a bunch of other very cute decorations.

Christian?

I heard this question yesterday on the radio. What a great question to ponder!

"If you were on trial for being a Christian today, would there be enough evidence to convict you?"

Psa 51:15 O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise.
Psa 63:3 Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you.
Eph 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
Php 2:13 for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.

I found these good Scriptures this morning with my E-Sword! That the Bible study program Steve put on my laptop. I love it! There are so many good Scriptures but here are a few.

Live life for His glory!! May all who know us know we are Christians, by what we do and say, and how we praise our Heavenly Father. Praise be to Him alone!

Brain Teaser

More than likely you said, "A bird in the bush,"! and. .....

if this IS what YOU said, then you failed to see
that the word THE is repeated twice!
Sorry, look again.

Birthday Party!

My mom had her 60th birthday last night! It was so fun. All 30 of her grandkids were there. (Well, number 30 is in my womb....but still he/she was there!) I am so blessed to have this wonderful angel as my mom! Mom is always serving, giving, loving, and taking care of us all. She is never too busy to help. She works so hard to be an awesome helpmeet to dad! She treats all the grandkids with tender love and care. She makes each one (of the 29 grandkids) feel special.
The kids all did a skit that Kaila wrote for mom and they each read their cards to her...oh and that brought the tears and some of the cards the laughs. That was great.
The other great part of the day was it was Kaylee (my little niece) first birthday on the same day. Troy and Heather (my oldest brother from Washington) made a real cutie with that little girl. I wish I would have taken more pictures last night. It was a great night and a joy to celebrate my mom and my little niece! I will have to get a picture of Kaylee on soon.

Happy Birthday Liisa

Today is great day...the day that God brought Liisa into this world some _ years ago!! :) I am so very glad He did. Liisa is such and an amazing women, mom, wife, friend, and daughter of God! I love to watch her around other people, she is always so concerned about other people, serving and listening. Her home is full of love and beauty. She is always making sure that others are comfortable and if not she will find way to make them comfortable and won't stop till they are. And her cooking...WOW....now that is really good! Knowing Kenny you know she is the great women behind a great man! Their children are a reflection of her and her kindness and love. I love you Liisa...Happy Birthday!

And cute little Noah in the picture is sure getting bigger, and smiles now. He is so sweet. I guess the camera was shocking to him this time. HA!

Satisfied Declaration

Ecc 6:1 There is an evil that I have seen under the sun, and it lies heavy on mankind:
Ecc 6:2 a man to whom God gives wealth, possessions, and honor, so that he lacks nothing of all that he desires, yet God does not give him power to enjoy them, but a stranger enjoys them. This is vanity; it is a grievous evil.
Ecc 6:3 If a man fathers a hundred children and lives many years, so that the days of his years are many, but his soul is not satisfied with life's good things, and he also has no burial, I say that a stillborn child is better off than he.
Ecc 6:4 For it comes in vanity and goes in darkness, and in darkness its name is covered.
Ecc 6:5 Moreover, it has not seen the sun or known anything, yet it finds rest rather than he.
Ecc 6:6 Even though he should live a thousand years twice over, yet enjoy no good--do not all go to the one place?
Ecc 6:7 All the toil of man is for his mouth, yet his appetite is not satisfied.
Ecc 6:8 For what advantage has the wise man over the fool? And what does the poor man have who knows how to conduct himself before the living?
Ecc 6:9 Better is the sight of the eyes than the wandering of the appetite: this also is vanity and a striving after wind.
Ecc 6:10 Whatever has come to be has already been named, and it is known what man is, and that he is not able to dispute with one stronger than he.
Ecc 6:11 The more words, the more vanity, and what is the advantage to man?
Ecc 6:12 For who knows what is good for man while he lives the few days of his vain life, which he passes like a shadow? For who can tell man what will be after him under the sun?

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Wow, a person can have everything. Be rich, full of power, many children, and yet not be satisfied at all.

Growing up in my family we went through some hard times. I mean very hard times financially as well as other issues. We were eating survival food in a can, “add water” to potatoes, soup etc. We lived in small places and money was tight. Yet never was there utters of non-satisfaction, never was there a "poor us " mentality. Never. My parents were ever loving, happy and pleasant. We did go through wonderful times too. Money was prosperous, we lived in a nice large house and had good food. Yet still the fruit of that was the same as the former days...joy, peace and happiness in the home. What an awesome example my parents set for us kids. I praise God as I think about that today! To be satisfied in good times and equally satisfied in hard times is a pure gift from God Almighty. Nothing in and of them is what made it possible I know, it was a gift from Him. He chose them, and they were willing vessels to be used by their maker, be it in good times or hard. I question myself this morning, am I a willing vessel? Am I to be satisfied in everything? Am I satisfied when things are going well as mucha s when they are tough? I pray I would be found faithful. I do pray so. For I know my Creator and He is my Lord. How awesome is that! Just to look to Him, in awe, I can be completely satisfied. Money issues, health issues, and any cares of the world disappear when He, Jesus Christ is the ultimate focus! I claim to be satisfied in all things.

Please pray for baby Faith

Today was church. Another awesome sermon, and wonderful time of fellowship and worship together with the saints of God.

I wanted to mention a prayer request one lady shared at church today. She has a friend who just took her 6 month old baby to get her 6 month vaccine shots. This was a healthy, smiley and happy baby. 4 Hours after the shot she went into a seizure and it lasted a long time. She was in ICU for two days after that and the Doctors say that she may be mentally brain damage for life. Stephanie (the friend at church that shared) said the baby is now at home but is not smiling, or looking at people. She is just in a daze now. What an awful tragedy for this family. Please pray for them. God can work miracles and I believe that with all my heart, but in it all may the family find peace in Him, no matter the outcome. The babies name is Faith. The mom was not wanting to give her baby shots but pressure from her family and the Doctors was too much and she finally did. This is not the first time this has happened. My dad has some really good books and articles on this subject if anyone would like further information. It is so sad. Thanks for the prayers.

Martin Luther / Reformation Day 2007

Last night our family watched "Martin Luther" in honor or Reformation Day! It was totally wonderful as usual. An old black and white movie, but still reminds us that the only thing we have is grace from our Father. Nothing we do, no act we perform, no absolutely nothing within us will bring us salvation. All we have is from Him, He is our salvation..."By grace you are saved...it is the GIFT of God!" Praise God!! What an awesome thing that Martin Luther stood for, and what a change he made in the whole church. It is exciting to know one man yes, even a small group of people can change the course of history by following what God calls them to do. I pray that we, our family and our children will always follow what God has us/them to do! No matter what may happen to us or what people think about us. Sola for Him!! May HE be the reason for living, breathing and life. May He be gloried in our life. Praise be to Jesus Christ. Please please Father use us in your land and in your church. It was awesome to see the older ones understand so much more of the meaning of this movie, since the last time they had seen it. It means more as they learn what these big words mean. And the younger ones did watch and learn too. That is what movies should be about!! If you ever can I recommend you watch it. But for now...All for Him, have an awesome day for His glory! And remember He has given us salvation because He is merciful and loving and not because we deserve anything!

Baby names...funny

This is a big problem. Steve and I cannot think of a name...now we really better think harder. We don't want to run into this guy!! HA

Awesome book! Debi Pearl

For sometime I have been reading this book. And sometime is a long time trust me. :) But the reason is, it's a lot to handle all at once! This is the BEST book I have ever read as far as this subject goes, how to be a good wife and a help meet. Very practical, although not always easy to apply. I totally encourage anyone to read this book. I love it and I know you would too. We have been going through it in our womens meetings we have with the church ladies. That has been really good too. What promises we have from the Lord when we are willing to follow His plan. There are many true stories of the lives of women who have changed their marriage around following some simple steps found in God's Word. It's awesome...did I tell you that! HA Anyway, I know I have a long way to go to be the wife Steve needs and deserves but by God's grace he still loves me! :) And I will continue the journey with joy and excitement and lots of love!! And I will continue to read this book until I get through it. Then I will probably read it again.

Today

A few older pictures of the two Oregon Thorps.
Can't forget the dog that had to stay at home! Sorry but I have no other pictures of the other animals that held down the fort at home!! LOL


Vickie and Travis came over today. It was a nice surprise. (Well...I was still in my jammies, and had not taken a shower yet) But for me it was a great treat Not so sweet smelling or looking for them HA! Vickie downloaded PSP (paint shop pro, a picture editing program) for me on my laptop! I am so glad to have it. It is a great tool for editing pictures and creating headers. I made Collin and I a new header tonight. It's fun. Travis was helpful too. He showed me some stuff on this blog, under HTML ahhh scary! HA He also made Collin have three roes on his blog. And that is cool I think. Anyway, the kids got to skip most of school and have some fun with Vickie and Travis. They went to the creek and played soccer. Which was just fine. Call it a PE PC class day! Yeah that is it. The beauty of homeschooling.
Well, gotta get these "olders" (Alex, Collin and Anna) off to bed. They get to stay up a half hour later then the "youngers" (Cassie, Mailee, Murren and Will), because they are all over 10 years old....but of course it is two hours passed their bedtime oops.

Cute story

I had to tell you all what Emma said to me the other day. She asked me how I scanned the picture of my baby? "What" I said. She said, "On the side of your blog you have your baby, how do you do that? Can you see if it's a boy or girl?" Oh, she thought that was really my baby floating around! How funny huh!! So to get things out straight and clear, that is not my baby just an animated baby the same size as mine!! :)

Happy Birthday Emma!!

Today we get to remember the glorious day Emma was born!! Wow, she has been a blessing to the family now for a whole 11 years! Happy birthday to you sweetie! Emma, is so great at whatever she does! Our "little Ruby" we like to call her. She loves dogs, and is great with Rockie her little Pomeranian. She is always so determined and gives her all in anything she is doing. Emma has written some very beautiful songs, and I pray she will continue to use this gift. What a pretty voice she has to glorify her Heavenly Father! She is absolutely awesome in speech and we are all glad that she is in our family!
Happy Birthday Emma Victoria Kruse! I love you very much!!!!

This is an older picture of Emma (in fact it was her birthday cake back in 2005) but she is still as cute as this and I, beside I could not find another picture right away. :)

Please pray for the family

Ethan 4 yrs. and Emerald (who would have been a year old today) Robertson perished late Thursday night in a fire at a cabin where they were living. This is such a sad tragedy for the family. I just thought I would post to let people know to pray for them.
The mother went 20 feet from the cabin where the children were sleeping to brush her teeth (she even took a baby monitor to listen too) and when she came out the cabin was in flames. May God help this family and all the friends.

Oh memories....The Price is Right!

Card fun!!

When mom got back from BoraBora she not only brought back a great tan, lots of beautiful pictures, but also the coolest card game ever! Nerts! We have been having a lot of fun playing this game. It's great because it is played with lots of people (or you can play with just two) and we can play together with the younger and older kids. It's a fast version of solitaire...sort of. Mom was really good and would beat everyone...but ummm well we all are getting pretty good now too! HA
Anyway, thought I should mention Kolten and I won tonight after church!!!! Oh yeah!! :) Collin and Liisa thought they would win but you know someone needs to be the first loser!! Oh I am just having fun you guys...you did OK. Kolten way to go partner!!! See you again in the winning circle.
(I know pride goes before a fall...and I am sure to lose terrible next time). Oh no. I am just teasing!! It is fun to play though and everyone is sooo good and very fast! It is a must game for us all to play when the whole family gathers again. So think shuffle, fast and NERTS!!! LOL

Diligence to be a Prov. 31 Women

I just read a great post on diligence by Nancie Wilson, Doug Wilson's wife. (Doug is a pastor I have really enjoyed for awhile now thanks to Kenny sharing his stuff with us). Anyway, in this post she went through Prov. 31 and pointed out the practical ways we women are to be diligent. It was very good, but a bit lengthy, so I won't post the whole thing although here is the link to Nancie's blog for you to check out for yourself if you would like. http://femina.reformedblogs.com/2007/05/02/diligence/ After Nancie posted this lady wrote to Nancie the following and Nancie wrote her back. I thought what she wrote was so good. So that is why I wanted to post it too. Enjoy. This was a great encouragement to me. God is awesome to use people in our lives so we may better be used for His glory!
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Any practical tips for getting and staying motivated to be diligent on the housework front…especially for those of us who live alone? I can spend all day at a friend’s house, working hard and staying on task and pushing myself to get just one more thing done. But at home, where there’s no external accountability, I just plain forget to care what the house looks like unless there’s company coming. Having company more often is therefore one obviously good motivator, but I find I need more help with self-spurring in the lulls between guests. -Valerie

Valerie,
A couple of thoughts. If you cultivate a love for beauty, the natural result is a desire to have your surroundings beautiful. This means that you won’t enjoy yourself nearly so much in a messy house as in a clean one. A table covered with papers and dirty coffee cups is not nearly so lovely as one with a vase of flowers on it. This could mean some paint and some new throw pillows, etc. But our homes reflect our worldview whether we like it or not. We can’t export a reformed culture if we don’t have a healthy one at home. And as my husband is so fond of saying, “Your theology comes out your fingertips.” What we believe about God is seen in the way we keep our homes. That is where you need to start, and then you’ll have use for “helpful hints.” The reformed community is generally very eager to pursue truth and goodness; but we lag behind in the pursuit of beauty. Women get to explore this in their homes, and once we have learned it there, we will have something good to spill out into the community and the world. -Nancie

Good Days Ahead

Things are going great with homeschooling. The kids are so awesome, I love working with them. It is amazing to see all their different personalities even in school stuff. In their writing, coloring, stories and paperwork. Being a part of the speech club this year is awesome too. Mom is so sweet to come and watch the grandkids. They sure do love her. I am excited to see all their speeches and stuff flourish these next few months. It's so fun. The twins and Will are loving going to Vickie's! They feel really special and she is doing great with them. Very happy. I am a blessed mother!
Now, it is late and all the kids ARE in bed, so of course everything is beautiful now...right! HA No, everything is good. Not that there are not hard days, but we are all moving ahead, learning, forgiving when needed, and loving life!
Oh, another great thing, the nausea is pretty much gone now for me! Praise the Lord for that!!! It only gets better from here. Or should I say I only get bigger from here.

Sugar cake baby....amazing

Cute song girls sang at church!

"The Middle Girls" Anna, Ellie, Emma, Esther, Cassie and Mercy.
Before they sang this song all the girls talked a little about how much fun they had with Grandma Dot. It was really cute. (Check out my mom's site to hear all the stuff they did...it was a fun packed weekend) Sorry my camera does not take good video's like Uncle John's does. I was given a camera that was awesome, and took great video's but my sweet little twins lost it a few days after dad gave it to me boohoo! Enjoy the clip anyway.

Baby Has a Heart!!!

Yesterday I had my first midwife appointment!! And praise God, we heard our little ones heartbeat!! It was so awesome, tears came to my eyes when I heard the sound. It is such a miracle what God does in creating life. I am so very excited! Steve and the girls (Anna, Cassie, Mailee and Murren) were all in the room too so they heard it as well. I was awesome! Everything else looked great too the midwife said. I am a little bigger then I should be...shhh Jodi does not like to hear that. HA I am sure it is just because I have have so many babies....but trust me I would love to have twins again! At the birth Jodi will be the assistant to the midwife, and I am very happy about that. She will more than likely catch the baby...she has caught many of mine already and never dropped one yet :) Of course we will have my mom, Liisa and my dad there too. As always...my favorite people around me and praying for me during labor. Yes, that is a ways down the road still I know. Well, for now this little blessing will Lord willing continue to grow and become healthy and strong.

Yeepee!! Thanks Kenny!

Tonight I get to go to the Casting Crowns concert, thanks to my big brother Kenny for buying me a ticket!! I love concerts so much! I was very surprised that he bought one for me....as well as Kaila, Destiny, Karissa, Jodi and himself!! Wow, who could ask for a better brother!! (At least one here in Oregon...I got another Awesome brother in Washington too!! And I would go to any concerts their too Troy!! HA)

Jodi called me this morning and was playing the CD of Casting Crowns real loud in the background while she was working out! It was so funny. She said she was listening to their new CD so she would know the songs tonight! HA At least she was up and working out, what a girl...I was in bed sleeping still...and DON'T ask what time it was. It was late! LOL Oh well I will be rested up for tonight! God is so GREAT!!!

Twins Birthday!!! 7 years old

Today is Mailee and Murrren's birthday! Wow, my little girls are 7 years old. It is so hard to believe.

Mailee is so good at coloring pictures. She can take a blank coloring page and turn it to something so very beautiful! She will spend a long time on one picture and give it her best, very creative and loves pretty things. Mailee is always ready and willing to meet new people. She is my little social butterfly. Mailee loves to play games and get in the action no matter what. God has blessed Mailee with a very tender heart. When someone is hurt she is there to comfort, and if it is one of her family members more than likely she will be crying with and or for them as well. I praise God for my little sweetheart Mailee Lynn Goldman.

Murren is my little perfectionist. She reminds me so much of my sister Jodi and her big brother Alex. She loves school and always gives her best! If Murren can not do something she will practice it till she can. Don't try to stop her. Nothing can be too hard for her. She has really fallen in love with math this year in school. Her reading is getting better and better too. In crowds she will stay close to me most of the time until she really feels comfortable. She is always wanting to help out in the kitchen too. She likes being a helper and like I said gives her best when she is helping.

Just wanted to thank God for these little girls that are growing up so quickly! I am blessed beyond measure! I pray they would grow in their love for their heavenly Father with ever year to come. May they be virtuous women and serve Him in His kingdom here on earth!

This picture was one Anna took yesterday of them when they were playing a princess game. She forgot to do their hair...HA oh well....Still cuties anyway!!

We had a great trip!

There was a bit of a mix up in my last post. "We" were not entering the band contest this year...we won it last year and part of the prize was getting to go back this year and get paid for performing. So thanks for the encouragement but we did not win...oh we did not place at all..not even last HA ! Love ya all! We got our name on a bluegrass t-shirt too!! After all these festival finally they put the band names that were performing on the shirt...HA Our friends the Dewgrass family got sick so we did not see them, that was a bummer.
All in all we had a great time. Trips are fun, and seeing the world is great, so many pretty places God made. We missed one turn on the way there, so our 5/12 hour trip turned into a 7 hour trip. But we got it right on the way home! I think we need to carry our road atlas in the van from now on! Steve and I agree on that now! LOL
Below are some funny pictures of William. This is what we do while sitting and listening to a band we don't like that much at the festivals! HA


That's all Folks!

Packing Up!

Well, today I have been packing up the trailer for the last Bluegrass festival this year. We are leaving tomorrow for Tygh Valley (about 51/2 hours away) Last year we went there and won 1st place in the band contest. This year we are being paid more to come back and play! Lord willing sell some DVD's too. The kids are happy to be off again. It is a bit colder there so I am bringing coats and lots of blankets...the heater in the trailer works well thank goodness!. Our friends, Dewgrass Family band are going to enter the band contest this year, and I know they will win! So, double bonus...we get to see them again too. We will see some of our other favorite people we always see at these festivals as well. Wish we had more family into bluegrass music to come with us!!! HA
Everyone have a great weekend Love to all!! Bye

Morning Choice

This morning I was thinking as I woke up with the nausea (again) "I have a choice". Do I want to enjoy today or be miserable and not enjoy this day? Is it a frown I want or a smile?

Yesterday, I was not doing so well either (sounds like a lot of complaining huh? ooops...it's ALL worth it in the end, I would do more if it meant I get to have a baby in my arms :) !!! Anyway, yesterday I was feeling yucky in the afternoon, but when I got to the church for the class there was Kenny smiling (brat, HA). There all the kids were happy as can be, smiling. Liisa walked in and smiled bigger then I have ever seen her smile..that's it! Jodi was late to class but yep, she was still smiling. Oh boy, how terrible, am I the only grouch here? Well, it took me awhile but I remembered how much more pleasing it is to see a smile on someones face then a frown. When I walked into the church Kenny noticed right away that I was not happy or feeling good. That was not controlling my emotions. I know better than that. My dad and mom (especially my dad) always said that we did not need to let everyone else know that we were sad or grumpy. Control your emotions! In different ways he would remind us and let us know, get over yourself and care more about others. When you force a smile it does make you feel better and somehow does change a grumpy attitude! Love is an action not a feeling! My Dad said he wished God would have put tails on people so we would all know when others were happy by their wagging tails. So many people never let you know they are happy. It is good to show your joy to others. This is so important with kids, with husbands with friends, show love by a smile. This is the thought I had today. I pray I can do this as I am wanting and smile to others and make them happy!! By the way have a happy day today!!! AND SMILE ;)

School Time

Well, we have really done it! Thanks to Grandma Dot for buying all those books and curriculum and I do mean ALL...there was a lot. I still am waiting for some stuff but most of it is here. The kids are very excited. And Alex is in heaven with all he is learning in the Omnibus class with Kenny. That has been "the best thing he has ever done or learned" his quote...which I was shocked about, cause what about music. Anyway he is happy. Mailee and Murren loved going to Vickie's yesterday, and both have lots of good to say about that. Speech class is going to be wonderful. The kids are jazzed about that, they just have not chosen what they are going to speak on. The writing class with all the kids was great. I got to be in the group with Esther, Cassie and Mercy. They did wonderful and I am very proud of them. They are all so ready and willing to learn. It is scary a bit because as you have probably seen I am not the greatest writer in the world. Alright you can STOP laughing now! There is great news though, it's a video and the guy teaches the class. And the other great thing is God can use anyone or anything (even a donkey right) if we are but willing to try. And I am trying. I know I know the donkey is pretty funny. All this to say if you think of it pray for us all starting school again.

Last night we had a womens meeting. We get together to pray and talk about wife roles, child rearing, or school stuff. It was really good. We are reading this book by R.C Sproul Jr. called "When You Rise Up". It is was reminding us the most important thing about school is what they are being raised up for. "This is our goal---raising God-glorifying children, rather than raising responsible citizens who can manage to get along with the world around them." It is so much more than just learning book knowledge and getting by. I want my kids to change the world, bring Jesus Christ glory and serve Him as the walk through their entire life. If they have that for a goal I will be blessed, and humbled too. It is fun to see them learn in knowledge true, but I really want them to show the fruits of the spirit, follow His laws, love others and to bring God Almighty all praise in whatever they do in their future stations of life!
May their lives bring Him all honor and may this year be filled with fun. :)

Happy Belated Birthday Aunt Ginger

Well, I missed her real birthday but I still want to say a little about my Aunt Ginger and how wonderful she is. Thanks Aunt Ginger for being a good mother to your children, a great sister to your family and a loving daughter to your parents. I know you went through some hard times but you were always faithful to do the best you could and give all you had for your children. I had some fun times at your house too. Although I know Jason and I did scare you when we went to the Alabama concert and failed to call and let you know...gone for hours when all we told you was we were going to the store to get some milk...oops sorry about that! You were forgiving then thanks. It has been a real joy to get to know you more and more the older I get. You have a super-de-duper husband (Yes you Uncle John) and you two are great grandparents to the grandkids God has given you. My children love you very much, and Alex will keep bending down when he stands next to you (you really are looking taller HA!) Thanks for the encouragement you give our family in our music. It is such a blessing knowing our family loves us and supports and it's awesome that you come and watch us at the growers market when you are in town visiting. And at times it's so hot and the same songs over and over! Anyway, there is a lot to say about my Aunt Ginger, I am thankful God has given her to this family...love you happy belated birthday Aunt Ginger
Tami

Rest area on our way to Tillamook Oregon

We stopped at this rest area on the way up to the last Bluegrass festival we just went to "Moograss" it was pretty. Travis would probably know which one if I had a little more information. He is really good about all that stuff.
Many of the kids matched with red shirts...oh how cute...that was not planned! LOL
You may wonder where Steve is in these pictures??? He was in the van scrubbing some horrible smell that was making me VERY sick! He is soooooooo awesome. I think he spent almost 2 hours getting the smell out...That's love! By the way he did get that smell out Praise God. I spent the first 4 or so hours wanting to jump out of that van...ha...well I spent it sniffing my hands that had lotion on them. Ha