Time to make dessert

It has been awhile since we have had most of a Saturday to do what we wanted to do. We went out for a little bit, but overall, we spent the day at home. I took out the pretzels and the vanilla almond bark for the girls. We even had sprinkles. Of course, the vacuum cleaner was close on hand. The dipped pretzels and put as many sprinkles as they wanted to. There was quite a bit of taste testing, but hey we were having fun. Hailey ended up with white choc all over the front of her. Rachel did well, but I think the ends of her hair might be dipped as well. Natalie managed to stay fairly clean. They want to take pretzels to dip with Emily over Thanksgiving. We can't wait to load up in the car and head out. Anyway, I hope you enjoy the pics.
















Natalie stirring things up














Rachel trying to get the pretzels out.















Hailey putting sprinkles on.

Thanksgiving must be practiced

Wow, where has the time gone? We are halfway through November already. It is unbelievable how quickly time goes by. I was just sitting here thinking about the season and all the things we enjoy. I was reflecting back a little and remembering Bro. Ross. Every November he would come into chapel and say "Thanksgiving must be practiced." He would have several people stand and tell what they were thankful for. I think sometimes we get so focused on the immediate problems that we forget about the many blessings that God has sent our way. With that in mind I thought I should take a moment and practice a little thanksgiving. First of all, I'm so thankful that Jesus died for me. I cannot imagine having to face life without His presence and guidance. His love is amazing. I'm so thankful for the family He has given me. My husband is a wonderful, faithful man. Yes, we have our differences, but I could not ask for a better man to have in my life. God has given me three beautiful little girls. They love me in spite of my weaknesses and look to me to provide for them. My extended family on both sides have spoiled me completely. What would I do without their support? I cannot even begin to express how grateful I am for my pastor's family and for my church. Many times in my life I haven't been so loveable and yet they never gave up on me. I owe a great debt to the friends who helped pull me through some very trying times in my life. To each of my friends and family that read this please allow me to say "Thank you." God has truly blessed my life using you. Happy Thanksgiving to each of you.

New ways to keep the girls busy

I'm sure you know that as a mom I am constantly trying to find ways to keep my girls busy. I went to Walmart the other day and found a clearance aisle with all kinds of school stuff. They had these dry erase boards that are shaped like signs. They love them. They can play with magnets on them and they can draw to their hearts content. I was doing paperwork and they stood there and colored for at least an hour. Occasionally they would switch signs, but overall they were very content. If they can just learn the concept of putting the lids back on the markers we will be doing much better. Usually I start ordering some seasonal crafts for them to do around Christmas. I need to get busy looking. That will help keep their little minds focused on something too. I just love my girls, but sometimes the energy they have is a bit overwhelming so moments like these are cherished. $2 was well worth my sanity level.

A few more pictures.

This was taken from the back porch of the big house at the camp. I spent as much time as I could sitting out there reading my Bible and drinking in the quiet beauty.

I asked the Lord if part of heaven could please look a little like this beautiful spot. It all made me miss our home in Idaho. No beauty moves me quite like Northern Idaho and this part of Montana.

Last week we went to Portland for a Educator's Convention. We met Sandi and Dave for a few hours after our first meeting. I posted this because Cheri wants to see how Dave looks now.

The ladies Retreat

The pictures came of backwards from what I wanted. Here I am in a 'style' show showing the latest in bathing suits.

The things hanging from the 'suit' are soap, tooth paste, and all the things used in taking a bath.

Jackie led singing.

This is a picture from a trian ride we took with the seniors from our church. Seniors as in old people.

It was a beautiful ride.

Socks

I just had to show everyone my new "toe socks." I think they are so cute and the girls think they are hilarious. Hailey keeps coming and touching my toes. Natalie thought they were long gloves with short fingers. Rachel just keeps laughing. If any of you see toe socks for men let me know, I want to get some for Monty. We'll just be a "toe sock" family.
On Monday morning I will be having Oral surgery. For those of you who are hoping that it is to sew my mouth closed you are not in luck. I actually have a tooth that keeps getting infected. Antibiotics are no longer taking care of it so I have to go in. Trust me, I have procrastinated as long as possible. The dentist is the worst for me because I never numb all the way. Just pray that it goes quickly this time. Last time it took three hours. They did more last time, but I always get nervous. Anyway, I hope you are all having a good day.

Playtime

On Friday the 31st Cyndi invited us to go with her out to the base for an evening of fun. For $5 each we were able to go skating, bowling, play miniature golf, and run through the playhouse. We all had a blast. The girls had a blast playing with the DeGarmo boys and trying out new things. We were the only people there so they really could do whatever they wanted.
More of the playhouse
Cyndi playing in the playhouse (rescuing Carter)
Monty helping Hailey with the bowling ball. Rachel did
bowling too, but she didn't sit still long enough to get a good pic
Natalie skating. She did well for her first time on a rink
This was Hailey's favorite part. They didn't have skates for the younger kids so they just ran around the floor in their socks chasing the lights. Monty would pick them up and skate with them. They liked going fast and it was so fun to hear their giggles. I only got a few pics because it was so dark. They turned on the lights for me to get the few that I got. Once again, Rachel was hard to get a picture of. What a turkey. She is going to ask someday where all the pics of her are. I will have to tell her about her very active self. I hope you all enjoyed the pics. Have a great day.