tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13661469477328779232024-03-13T10:19:37.374-07:00Duckygirl's PlaceDuckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.comBlogger301125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-28023240128001999242015-12-30T07:47:00.005-08:002016-01-17T07:55:51.932-08:00New Blog<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm jumping back into blogging, but needed it to be different. So come join me over at:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.extrodinarilyordinarysims.blogspot.com/"><br /></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://extraordinarilyordinarylaura.blogspot.com/">Extrodinarily Ordinary</a></span></div>
Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-20520583790796217912015-08-09T14:26:00.000-07:002015-08-09T14:26:12.220-07:00<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It's time again for brand new crayons and fresh packs of paper. New notebooks, sharpened pencils... I'm in planning mode again for the new school year. Our official start day, Lord willing, will be August 24th. I usually have high expectations and grand plans of what we'll accomplish, we'll see how far we get. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My motto for our year (that I plan to print out and stick on the wall) is:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"The only way to keep chaff out </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">of a </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">child's cup is to </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">fill it brimful with </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">good wheat." </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">~Charles Spurgeon</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We've had a lot of chaff sneak in, and I'm longing for an abundance of good wheat!</span>Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-62989615386558078852015-04-11T12:27:00.000-07:002015-04-11T12:27:17.946-07:00Where I belongLast year I chose a phrase to try and live out as a sort of goal or mantra for myself. Choose joy. After Josiah died I found that it was much easier to keep myself super busy. Occupy my time fully, downtime was the enemy so to speak. For the most part, it worked. on the one hand being busy constantly though does not allow much time for sadness to drift in. On the other hand it didn't allow for much joy either. I found myself going through the days in a pretty contented manner, but inside something lacked.<br />
<br />
I hadn't noticed just how far my heart had drifted.<br />
<br />
At the beginning of March we closed our resale shop and the kids and I are home full time again. During one of the first weeks I posted a picture to Facebook of my kids surrounding the dining room table doing their schoolwork. I sat at the end of the table with tears in my eyes.....feeling complete joy. Joy that I hadn't felt in a long, long time.<br />
<br />
I think that having the store and being so busy was a good thing for me for the time. ...now though,...<br />
<br />
Being home is good. Really good.Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-58305787309119659742014-11-22T12:29:00.000-08:002014-11-22T12:29:03.744-08:00Maggie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IhqVRw_DbQE/VHDwww_EZXI/AAAAAAAAJ9E/c7_SqCiOmzA/s1600/10410874_10152401943165764_2782692059359133831_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IhqVRw_DbQE/VHDwww_EZXI/AAAAAAAAJ9E/c7_SqCiOmzA/s1600/10410874_10152401943165764_2782692059359133831_n.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">September 23rd, 2014 </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Magdalena Rahab was born </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">weighing in at 7 lbs 13 ounces</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iSKgw4YTS8g/VHDx_D0_9II/AAAAAAAAJ9M/j--RdCH64fs/s1600/10259754_10152401627700764_6286725787067478805_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iSKgw4YTS8g/VHDx_D0_9II/AAAAAAAAJ9M/j--RdCH64fs/s1600/10259754_10152401627700764_6286725787067478805_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-15943580227850069342014-08-12T09:33:00.002-07:002014-08-12T09:35:19.922-07:00Countdown to baby<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gOQb9hrW26s/U-pBicgMvyI/AAAAAAAAJ3Y/2j8ZYUzSm3k/s1600/Background-33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gOQb9hrW26s/U-pBicgMvyI/AAAAAAAAJ3Y/2j8ZYUzSm3k/s1600/Background-33.jpg" height="265" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: center;">It's starting to sink in that I'm due to have this baby in 6 1/2 weeks!~</span></div>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I'm feeling the need to start preparing (I know you're thinking I should have t</span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">hought of this sooner, right?) We already have most of the necessity things like a bed, car seat, Ergo, blankets, clothes and such so my list of 'needs' are more centered around what items we'll need as a family. Things we use everyday that I can stock up on so we won't be running to the store. </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This is what my list looks like (in addition to diapers & wipes): </span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">Paper towels</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">toilet paper</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">paper plates</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">plastic utensils</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">garbage bags</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">shampoo/conditioner</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">toothpaste</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">laundry detergent & dryer sheets</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">dish soap</span></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 26px;">And also some pantry items that will make life a bit easier like: </span><br />
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">bottled water (our well water isn't that yummy)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">powdered Gatorade (for the hubs)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">extra jars of peanut butter & jelly</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">Coffee k-cups</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">granola bars</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">fruit snacks</span></span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">I decided when making out my menu plan this week that I'm going to try and streamline our breakfast & lunch options as well. I narrowed it down so the kids will have just a couple of options. </span></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 26px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 26px;">Breakfast: Pick one~</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">Instant oatmeal (2 pkt limit each) </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">or </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">a ziploc with 1 cup dry cereal & a granola bar</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">Lunch: ~Mom picks which and adds a fruit & veggie, will be same for all kids each day~</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">Hot dog</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">Cup o noodle</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">Beef & Cheese burrito</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">Quesadilla</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">PB&J </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">I know those are not at all the healthiest choices, but I'm going for easy and cheap.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">I'll also be doubling as many dinner recipes as possible to put the extra one in the freezer. Making ahead muffins, burritos (breakfast & lunch varieties) AND try to get caught up on the laundry...ha! That won't happen, but I can dream! </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">Not your typical get ready for baby type stuff now is it? :) </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 26px;"><br /></span></span></div>
Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-46240936725803314882014-08-05T10:39:00.000-07:002014-08-26T08:13:53.660-07:00School year 2014-2015 - The planYesterday I sat down and worked out a plan for the upcoming/fast approaching school year. My plans are always more of a goal, as in, it's a rough draft that gets tweaked as we go along. :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_tMdOcgtvGU/U-EA2gZC_hI/AAAAAAAAJ3A/8Da5TJRWeAw/s1600/lessonplans.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_tMdOcgtvGU/U-EA2gZC_hI/AAAAAAAAJ3A/8Da5TJRWeAw/s1600/lessonplans.gif" /></a></div>
<br />
Here goes:<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;">Amanda - 9th grade (I have a high schooler!!!)</span><br />
<br />
Notgrass World History which covers three subjects: Bible, Lit & History<br />
<br />
Ctc Math Algebra 1 (https://ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool/) - this is something new we're trying this year for most of the kids...give me a few weeks and I'll come back with a review for you!<br />
<br />
Apologia Physical Science<br />
<br />
I've heard that Notgrass is heavy on reading, but my girl loves to read so we may add in some other independent reading with book review papers as well.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Kenny - Grade 8</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
Ctc math Algebra 1<br />
<br />
Language arts - Saxon writing / grammar 8<br />
CLP building spelling skills<br />
Independent Reading list (read book, write review/response paper) 2 books per month<br />
<br />
Apologia Anatomy - we've tried to complete this one twice now and it just never got done. So THIS is the year we WILL do it. :) He will be working with Stephen, Jessica & Abram as a group for this and history.<br />
<br />
Mystery of history - as group<br />
<br />
Code academy - computer programming<br />
<br />
Bible - CLP studying God's word<br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Stephen - Grade 6</span><br />
<br />
Ctc math - 7th to pre algebra<br />
<br />
Language arts - Saxon grammar / writing 7<br />
Explode the code 8<br />
CLP building spelling skills<br />
Wordly wise 6<br />
Independent reading - 1 book per month with review/response paper<br />
<br />
History & Science - as group<br />
<br />
Code academy - computer programming<br />
<br />
Bible - CLP studying God's word<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Jessica - Grade 5</span><br />
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
Ctc Math - she just finished up Saxon 6/5 so I'm assuming she'll start at level 6<br />
<br />
Language arts - Wordly wise<br />
CLP building spelling skills<br />
Climbing to good English grade 5<br />
Independent reading - 2 books per month (of mom's choice)<br />
History & Science- as group<br />
<br />
Elementary Spanish class (hosted here at our store)<br />
<br />
Bible - CLP studying God's word<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Abram - Grade 3</span><br />
<br />
Ctc math<br />
<br />
History & Science- as group<br />
<br />
Language Arts - Climbing to good English grade 3<br />
Wordly wise 2 & 3<br />
Pathway & Abeka readers to read aloud to mom<br />
Handwriting/ copy work out of above readers<br />
<br />
Bible - CLP studying God's word<br />
<br />
Elementary Spanish class (hosted here at our store)<br />
<br />
<span style="color: orange; font-size: large;">Noah & Kathleen - K-1st grade (I'm teaching these two together, hoping that works well!)</span><br />
<br />
CTC math or Singapore 1A & 1B - I'd like to use the online math but I'm not sure if I'll love it. They need the handwriting more hands on at this age so we'll see.<br />
<br />
Language arts will be a combination of : Alpha phonics, Explode the Code, Evan Moor's Phonics Fundamentals & handwriting/copy work.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><u>All together</u></span><br />
<br />
On the drive to and from our store (approx 15-20 mins.)<br />
we'll listen to audio: 2 days/week for history<br />
2 days/week for Science<br />
1 day - literature audio book <br />
<br />
Memorize 1 verse of scripture per week & keep a file box of all of them for review<br />
<br />
We'll add in a bunch of other random things that I think are 'school' but won't count to actually write down in the plan. Educational games, documentaries, life skills (cooking, chores, safety skills, etc), workouts at the gym, swimming, entrepreneurial skills from working at our store and much more. :) <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-80555076091086186512014-07-31T15:31:00.000-07:002014-07-31T15:32:52.595-07:00Camping<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
3 1/2 days</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
3 nights</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
15 people</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fishing, swimming, boating....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
lots of eating</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
S'mores around the fire.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Mosquito bites & sunburns</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Can't wait to do it all again.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8cC-UN9fP4s/U9rC1xoa99I/AAAAAAAAJ1k/rbWhrGMvbJs/s1600/2014-07-28+17.37.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8cC-UN9fP4s/U9rC1xoa99I/AAAAAAAAJ1k/rbWhrGMvbJs/s1600/2014-07-28+17.37.42.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vHeo_syDSCc/U9rCwJEhApI/AAAAAAAAJ1c/FAVhNfEWGD8/s1600/2014-07-29+12.06.05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vHeo_syDSCc/U9rCwJEhApI/AAAAAAAAJ1c/FAVhNfEWGD8/s1600/2014-07-29+12.06.05.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZxjwNe3ZbbU/U9rDL3ErpMI/AAAAAAAAJ1w/U781OHsAJJ0/s1600/2014-07-29+13.22.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZxjwNe3ZbbU/U9rDL3ErpMI/AAAAAAAAJ1w/U781OHsAJJ0/s1600/2014-07-29+13.22.32.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cypY5DAfLoc/U9rDOCj114I/AAAAAAAAJ18/XD9tGjRUjb8/s1600/2014-07-29+15.14.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cypY5DAfLoc/U9rDOCj114I/AAAAAAAAJ18/XD9tGjRUjb8/s1600/2014-07-29+15.14.06.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i96sHHaG4-I/U9rDLsA8xTI/AAAAAAAAJ1s/OCpTFas7yPY/s1600/2014-07-30+09.39.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i96sHHaG4-I/U9rDLsA8xTI/AAAAAAAAJ1s/OCpTFas7yPY/s1600/2014-07-30+09.39.03.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-65284802769267404712014-07-24T09:40:00.001-07:002014-07-24T09:40:59.613-07:0033<div style="text-align: center;">
Today I am 33 years old. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oDh0-PqLClw/U9EzJmRcT-I/AAAAAAAAJ0k/fTmhkDwWjYI/s1600/IMG_20140608_171052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oDh0-PqLClw/U9EzJmRcT-I/AAAAAAAAJ0k/fTmhkDwWjYI/s1600/IMG_20140608_171052.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Age is a funny thing, like time... One moment it can seem like it's happening way too slowly and the next moment it can seem like it's rushing by.<br />
<br />
I was walking around the hardware store last night and caught a glimpse of my oldest boy just beside me. It made me pause for a second and just think....how am I old enough to have a son who looks me eye to eye & will be taller than me any day (if he's not a hair taller already)?? How am I old enough to be nearing the birth of our twelfth child?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5wyDFoHGaN8/U9EzJOBSwXI/AAAAAAAAJ0g/0sbAUtSTVIs/s1600/IMG_20140704_093421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5wyDFoHGaN8/U9EzJOBSwXI/AAAAAAAAJ0g/0sbAUtSTVIs/s1600/IMG_20140704_093421.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
A friend commented something the other day on this photo: <span style="background-color: #fafbfb; color: #4e5665; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;"> </span><span style="background-color: #fafbfb; color: #4e5665; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;">I love the symbolism, with the swing showing what the Sims family represents in enjoying every minute of life.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fafbfb; color: #4e5665; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VWemsoggMsM/U9EyhiSJe5I/AAAAAAAAJ0Y/cb76-QFT4Qs/s1600/10464260_10152169891055764_302767443569796332_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VWemsoggMsM/U9EyhiSJe5I/AAAAAAAAJ0Y/cb76-QFT4Qs/s1600/10464260_10152169891055764_302767443569796332_n.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and it really made me think. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I want that statement to be accurate. I want to enjoy every minute of life. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #004880; font-family: normal, 'Open Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 21px; line-height: 33.279998779296875px;">"Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment"</em><span style="background-color: white; color: #004880; font-family: normal, 'Open Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 21px; font-style: italic; line-height: 33.279998779296875px;"> (1 Timothy 6:17 NIV).</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="background-color: #fafbfb; color: #4e5665; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;"><br /></span>Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-7993821490117078472014-06-07T10:00:00.000-07:002014-06-07T10:00:12.145-07:00Catch upWhen Google reader ceased to exist I pretty much ditched blogging. Most friends were on Facebook and that coupled with a busy life just kind of took over. But I miss blogs. I miss people sharing what's happening in their lives beyond a one sentence status.<br />
<br />
To jump back in I'm going to just start with a glimpse of today.<br />
<br />
Today is Saturday, I'm at our store until 3:00 today and it's a pretty mellow day. The street is closed off for a cycling race this afternoon, so traffic is slower than normal. It's giving me a chance to get some backlog of books & clothes tagged. I'm here with 8 of the kids, Ian's not feeling too well and stayed home with Kenny & Stephen.<br />
<br />
Nicholas is almost 16 months now & not quite walking yet, though I keep catching him standing on his own and he's sure cruising along furniture fast! His hair has started filling in and it's CURLY! The first of our kids to get that trait from their daddy.<br />
<br />
I'm 24 weeks preggo now with our 12th baby! Still seems crazy when I say that. :) I'm feeling well, second trimester is usually the 'easy' part. No nausea & tiredness and not quite big enough to be uncomfortable yet.<br />
<br />
In the past month we got to visit with three of my aunts, my uncle & two cousins all of whom we hadn't seen since we moved to Illinois almost 6 years ago. They got to meet several of our kiddos who have been born since...it was a lot of fun!<br />
<br />
Now I'm off to eat my lunch and get a few more things done before closing up shop and heading home for the evening.Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-36236459192080447702013-12-21T08:21:00.000-08:002013-12-21T08:21:03.133-08:00Today marks two years.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last night I was trying to find something in my room and ended up looking through old photos of the family. This is something I love to do, look at photos. Little moments of time captured for us to remember. Marveling at how much my kids look alike (SO many of Amanda that look just like Mabel does now!). In the back of my mind though I kept thinking about how the photos we have of Josiah are finite. There will never be more, no new ones to add. I was feeling pretty blue about it. I just prayed that the Lord would give me strength, since obviously on my own this just plain stinks. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And you know what? The Lord cares. He loves us SO much! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So much so that that prayer that I sent up in the midst of my little pity party, He chose to answer.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
First thing I see this morning was a message from my sweet friend Michelle. She (unbeknownst to her) sent me a picture that I'd never seen before, that very hour I prayed. How amazing is that!?!?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'll tell you.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's pretty stinking amazing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-18dmSqj4SLc/UrW8sIw9PwI/AAAAAAAAFqY/FQmJqrEXIJo/s1600/Josiah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-18dmSqj4SLc/UrW8sIw9PwI/AAAAAAAAFqY/FQmJqrEXIJo/s320/Josiah.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"></span><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: center;">
But let all who take <b>refuge</b> in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: center;">
<strong>Psalm 5:11</strong></div>
</div>
Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-73627154198185559182013-12-13T11:59:00.001-08:002013-12-13T11:59:32.973-08:00BuddiesToday a customer brought in a play kitchen with a boat load of accessories, food & dishes. My Toddlers are having a ball being the official toy 'testers'.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w9hSJZwfAIg/Uqtmo53_9JI/AAAAAAAAFpo/_ZIQrARNMbA/s1600/IMAG2695.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w9hSJZwfAIg/Uqtmo53_9JI/AAAAAAAAFpo/_ZIQrARNMbA/s1600/IMAG2695.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I82sOVS9E8A/Uqtmpu9DrrI/AAAAAAAAFps/EUswpTWEXmE/s1600/IMAG2696.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I82sOVS9E8A/Uqtmpu9DrrI/AAAAAAAAFps/EUswpTWEXmE/s1600/IMAG2696.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3WEcXZ6_ewU/Uqtmo2Flr0I/AAAAAAAAFpk/gwV0_qfl4oI/s1600/IMAG2697.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3WEcXZ6_ewU/Uqtmo2Flr0I/AAAAAAAAFpk/gwV0_qfl4oI/s1600/IMAG2697.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r_R6KGP1kBA/Uqtm0klT_7I/AAAAAAAAFp8/tB6vm2MsYLE/s1600/IMAG2698.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r_R6KGP1kBA/Uqtm0klT_7I/AAAAAAAAFp8/tB6vm2MsYLE/s1600/IMAG2698.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QY1zKvroXBQ/Uqtm1fl0kBI/AAAAAAAAFqA/tIgnZICX1Pc/s1600/IMAG2699.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QY1zKvroXBQ/Uqtm1fl0kBI/AAAAAAAAFqA/tIgnZICX1Pc/s1600/IMAG2699.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-55204980111499952632013-11-23T09:17:00.000-08:002013-11-23T09:25:24.509-08:00How others see us<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/XpaOjMXyJGk" width="480"></iframe>
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Californian FB', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Californian FB', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"> A
couple of months ago I watched this video and it really resonated with me, as
it probably did with millions of others. We beat ourselves up so much, and not
just over appearance either. </span><br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: 'Californian FB', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Did I say the right thing?</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Californian FB', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>act the right
way......did they think I'm odd or crazy?</i> </span><span style="font-family: 'Californian FB', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Californian FB', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"> To see first hand how others viewed them is
eye opening! Don't you wish you could see yourself that way? Not so much as to
make you vain, but to give yourself a little more grace. We are made in the
image of God, we are His beautiful creation! </span><span style="font-family: 'Californian FB', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Californian FB', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"> Have you had people compliment you, yet
you shrugged it off thinking 'they can't really mean that' or 'they're just
saying that to be nice'? Do you stand in your closet getting ready for an
outing (or anywhere for that matter) and put on one outfit only to change
because you think it makes you look fat, or frumpy....or ______ fill in the
blank? Do you leave a party and wonder just how many times you put your foot in
your mouth? I know I sure do!</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Californian FB', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"> I received a very sweet encouraging email the
other day and it made me look back in time. Back to a few comments people have
made over the years that made me stop in my 'beat myself up attitude', making
me long to get a glimpse of myself from their point of view. </span><span style="font-family: 'Californian FB', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Californian FB', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"> It makes me want to be more intentional about
telling people how I see them. How they inspire me. Not by just saying 'you
inspire me' but including details. Writing a note, email or text. </span><span style="font-family: 'Californian FB', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Californian FB","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I've learned that people will <b>forget</b> what
you said, people will <b>forget</b> what you did, but people
will <b>never forget</b> how <b>you made them feel</b>. ~Maya
Angelou</span><span style="font-family: 'Californian FB', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Californian FB', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">So, I'm challenging myself (and you!) to tell people more
often how you see them (the good stuff) and what they mean to you. Allow them
to<span class="apple-converted-space"><i> </i></span><i>feel</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Christ's love through you.</span><span style="font-family: 'Californian FB', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Californian FB', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23.09375px;">How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23.09375px;">And that is what we are! </span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23.09375px;">1 John 3:1</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23.09375px;"> </span></div>
<br />
'Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-8026726414037256242013-11-02T09:10:00.002-07:002013-11-02T09:10:42.372-07:00Contentment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pLsG73vyPfU/UnUhaWOO-YI/AAAAAAAAFm4/2dbONstx-BY/s1600/hellen+keller+quote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pLsG73vyPfU/UnUhaWOO-YI/AAAAAAAAFm4/2dbONstx-BY/s320/hellen+keller+quote.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
We are a year & a half into running our own business. It's a <b><i>lot</i></b> of work & stress and I have to keep reminding myself of the things that make me happy about it instead of looking to the future at where I want to be.<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Witnessing two ladies picking out & buying SIX bags full of clothes to go to a family in need.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Watching someone pay for a set of cloth diapers to send home with a missionary who would not have access to disposable diapers.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Providing a place for families to be able to purchase homeschool materials that I know they wouldn't be able to afford new. </li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Having many people comment on how much they love hearing the Christian music playing in our shop.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Being able to ask my boys to help a customer carry a box of books and see them not skip a beat, but jump up to help with a smile. </li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
There<b> is</b> happiness in the moment. <i><b>This</b></i> day, <b><i>this</i></b> moment. Lord, help me to keep seeing it.<br />
<br />Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-28992942378568009762013-11-01T14:58:00.003-07:002013-11-01T14:58:47.848-07:00Halloween 2013It's hard to believe that the Halloween picture above is from two years ago! Someday I may replace it with a current pic, but for now my hearts content to keep it there.<br />
<br />
Any who~ I wasn't intending to go down a sad road with this post. We decided to keep on with the tradition of having a family theme, this year: Movie Night!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7Pdgja_eLYI/UnQa0KG_ErI/AAAAAAAAFmg/o1QzVAUKpOY/s1600/994644_10201130363716338_57276680_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7Pdgja_eLYI/UnQa0KG_ErI/AAAAAAAAFmg/o1QzVAUKpOY/s320/994644_10201130363716338_57276680_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We got them all dressed up and they trick or treated at the businesses downtown last week. And can I just say, I am SO glad that we did because Halloween night it was raining! The costumes were made of mostly poster board & markers that would completely ruin in the rain. All day long the kids had a solemn attitude thinking we would not be able to go. We closed up shop at 3pm and started driving home, with a van full of disappointment. If you read my last post, I'm trying (and praying for His strength) to be fully engaged with the kids, putting in a full effort.<br />
<br />
So, I turn the van around.<br />
<br />
A quick stop back at the shop, one quick trip to the dollar store & we came up with 8 new costume ideas that wouldn't be ruined by rain! Yay! We ended up with (in order from oldest to youngest): Spidergirl, Soldier, Football player, Princess, Ninja, Biker dude, Punk rock girl, & a blue alien (Mabel & Nicholas stayed in the van). In all the rush for plan B I forgot to snap any pictures. Boo. But the kids had a ton of fun and gathered enough candy to ensure high dental bills in our future. Success! :)<br />
<br />Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-43954813080585946702013-10-01T14:57:00.000-07:002013-10-01T14:57:47.096-07:00Giving up & Selfishness<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today I read this post: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.raisingarrows.net/2013/09/the-selfish-side-of-grief/">The selfish side of grief</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">...and can I just say, wow!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and ugh.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don't think all of it applies 100% to me, but I see the attitude just the same. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #373737; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px;">She writes, "You see, </span><a href="http://www.raisingarrows.net/2009/07/emilys-story/" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #00acbb; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">when Emily died</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #373737; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px;">, </span><strong style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #373737; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">I never wanted to want again</strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #373737; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px;">. I had lost my daughter and I had to go on living here on earth without her. I felt deprived of her presence. I felt I had lost enough. I never wanted to feel any kind of deprivation again. So, I started filling the void."</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For me I think it boils down to distractions. Things I've used to keep myself from thinking too much, because if I think below surface level I'm sad. My distractions have come in a variety of forms: let's eat out, let's go shopping, what fun thing can we do?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">....let's START A BUSINESS for goodness sake. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In a lot of ways these distractions have been a blessing. A way for me to not completely fall apart. I love that. I see the downside to this though. I see myself not engaging as much. Not withdrawing completely, but not allowing myself to live fully out of fear. Fear that it'll hurt. I see myself not putting in a full effort like I used to. Birthdays for the kids, holidays, special events used to be SO much fun for me. I was fully invested. Now? Eh, not so much. Halloween for example we've done quite a few family themed costumes. This year (and last) I'm just not gung ho about it. My attitude has just been 'okay, I'll participate and keep the tradition' but on the inside I'm just holding back. Giving up and being selfish. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Reading her post was like a light bulb this morning. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I want to be fully engaged with my kids. So, I'm done.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I'm done giving up. I'm done being selfish. Even if it hurts.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #373737; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; line-height: 24px;">Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #373737; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; line-height: 24px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #373737; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; line-height: 24px;">2 Corinthians 1:3-4</span><br />
<br />
Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-21225687367774692052013-05-21T13:54:00.000-07:002013-05-21T13:54:23.522-07:00Time for a happy post!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C1bMZETF5jw/UZvcsBZ7o5I/AAAAAAAAFeQ/WnhiuISQj0s/s1600/1367976238177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C1bMZETF5jw/UZvcsBZ7o5I/AAAAAAAAFeQ/WnhiuISQj0s/s320/1367976238177.jpg" width="181" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mabel girl is walking around more and more!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TTGDnPNIThY/UZvcyhg-J0I/AAAAAAAAFeY/5w4SCenOzOc/s1600/1364152941100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TTGDnPNIThY/UZvcyhg-J0I/AAAAAAAAFeY/5w4SCenOzOc/s320/1364152941100.jpg" width="181" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A view of 'em all in the van. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3RH2yL7j-UI/UZvdlitJsII/AAAAAAAAFeg/0JGk7HELR9E/s1600/IMAG1360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3RH2yL7j-UI/UZvdlitJsII/AAAAAAAAFeg/0JGk7HELR9E/s320/IMAG1360.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My snuggly in the morning Theo buddy. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FfbKUthPkHs/UZveACNKkjI/AAAAAAAAFew/c_7KDUeS7Q4/s1600/IMAG1270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FfbKUthPkHs/UZveACNKkjI/AAAAAAAAFew/c_7KDUeS7Q4/s320/IMAG1270.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nicholas is 3 months old!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1bFnrFMmCv4/UZveyxD5_aI/AAAAAAAAFfA/MB_Xgi31ZXM/s1600/IMAG1245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1bFnrFMmCv4/UZveyxD5_aI/AAAAAAAAFfA/MB_Xgi31ZXM/s320/IMAG1245.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and super smiley!</div>
Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-13814724769461530092013-04-11T10:34:00.001-07:002013-04-11T10:34:59.524-07:00My soul thirsts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sometimes I have all these thoughts that go through my head and I'm not sure any of them would make any sense if I said them out loud. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The thoughts are random, mostly quick and fleeting. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Counting out plates for a meal I go through the kids' names in my head, I pause between Abram & Noah not wanting to skip over Josiah's name but not wanting to say it aloud either.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Folding laundry I'll see a shirt and have this ache...he used to wear that.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And then I look at Noah. My lively, full of energy, adorable guy and realize that tomorrow...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PhsovSwvxRM/UWburEYW7YI/AAAAAAAAFR4/M5HlGDEhSkM/s1600/IMAG0397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PhsovSwvxRM/UWburEYW7YI/AAAAAAAAFR4/M5HlGDEhSkM/s320/IMAG0397.jpg" width="191" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
...tomorrow he will be the exact age Josiah was the day he died. </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Saturday he will 'pass' his older brother in age. </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
May 1st, he will turn 5...the birthday Joe never got to.</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then the tears flow. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ifnMpFEFYso/UWbtmNwmu7I/AAAAAAAAFRw/M2tbQJh6BB0/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ifnMpFEFYso/UWbtmNwmu7I/AAAAAAAAFRw/M2tbQJh6BB0/s320/DSC_0001.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and I pray. Pray for strength...for comfort. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He answers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I open my bible to read these words: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
O God, you are my God; <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-14841B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></sup>earnestly I seek you;<br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-63-1"><sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-14841C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></sup>my soul thirsts for you;</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-63-1">my flesh faints for you,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-63-1">as in <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-14841D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></sup>a dry and weary land where there is no water.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-63-2" id="en-ESV-14842"><sup class="versenum">2 </sup>So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-63-2">beholding <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-14842E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></sup>your power and glory.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-63-3" id="en-ESV-14843"><sup class="versenum">3 </sup>Because your <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-14843F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></sup>steadfast love is better than life,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-63-3">my lips will praise you.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-63-4" id="en-ESV-14844"><sup class="versenum">4 </sup>So I will bless you <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-14844G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)"></sup>as long as I live;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-63-4">in your <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-14844H" title="See cross-reference H">H</a>)"></sup>name I will <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-14844I" title="See cross-reference I">I</a>)"></sup>lift up my hands.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-10377677561284119692013-03-02T14:07:00.000-08:002013-03-02T14:11:15.389-08:00Emotional hormonal wreckHello, my name is Laura and today I'm a wreck.<br />
<br />
Struggling with feeling like a failure in every part of life.<br />
<br />
Housework falling behind.<br />
<br />
Children who bicker.<br />
<br />
Homeschooling, not thorough enough/consistent....not enough past the 'basics'.<br />
<br />
Our store, will it be successful?<br />
<br />
My health...I know I just had a baby, but I have a bunch to lose.<br />
<br />
I feel like I have a face that everyone sees, this put together calm non-frazzled person. Ha! If only.<br />
<br />
I stress, I yell, I cry.<br />
<br />
I think I'm capable of quite a bit but I just seem to skim the surface of so many things without doing a great job at any of them.<br />
<br />
So I remind myself:<br />
<em style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #424242; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; font-family: Book Antiqua; font-size: medium; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></em>
<em style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #424242; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; font-family: Book Antiqua; font-size: medium; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new<sup style="background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 0px; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </sup>every morning, great is your faithfulness.” </span></em><em style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #424242; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; font-family: Book Antiqua; font-size: medium; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Lamentations 3:22,23 </span></em><br />
<em style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #424242; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; font-family: Book Antiqua; font-size: medium; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></em>
<em style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #424242; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; font-family: Book Antiqua; font-size: medium; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></em>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://media-cache-ec7.pinterest.com/550x/10/41/3c/10413c62fcd24f8fbc881ce782ac1eca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://media-cache-ec7.pinterest.com/550x/10/41/3c/10413c62fcd24f8fbc881ce782ac1eca.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<em style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #424242; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; font-family: Book Antiqua; font-size: medium; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></em>
<em style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #424242; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; font-family: Book Antiqua; font-size: medium; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></em>
<em style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #424242; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; font-family: Book Antiqua; font-size: medium; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></em>Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-55792215420300341782013-02-19T16:20:00.000-08:002013-02-19T16:20:46.856-08:00Birth Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Introducing the newest member of our family: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Nicholas Cecil </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
born February 18th, 5:38 pm</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
weight 7 lbs 8 oz</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
21 inches long</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OWA2yIsJiRI/USO-EgwMpNI/AAAAAAAAE8U/d_1qi9kBTrk/s1600/DSC_0776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OWA2yIsJiRI/USO-EgwMpNI/AAAAAAAAE8U/d_1qi9kBTrk/s320/DSC_0776.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
If you are anything like me than you're probably just a wee bit curious too hear how the birth went, so here goes.<br />
<br />
Friday & Saturday I had mild contractions kind of sporadically during the day only for them to come to a complete stop by Saturday evening. Sunday we got up went to church and went about our day pretty normally.<br />
<br />
Some time between 10-11 pm I started having contractions again, only this time they were more intense and maybe 10-15 minutes apart. By the middle of the night they'd picked up to be more around 4-5 minutes apart so we called a friend (thanks Jen!) to come sleep on the couch. We arrived at the hospital to be checked & monitored, they put me at 4+ cm but as soon as I sat they slowed way down again.<br />
<br />
Back home we went (this was about 9 am at this point). I tried to sleep a bit, walk a bit....still felt like things were progressing and frustrated that they sent me home. I already had a regular appointment set up at my ob's office so we headed there at noon to see if anything really was changing. My contractions are still coming around ten minutes apart. At 1:00 the doctor there checked me, saying 'you're a good 6-7 cm and 80% effaced, I think you should head back to the hospital'. She mentioned that I should go get checked in and if I'd like she could come break my water to see if that would be enough to push things really into gear.<br />
<br />
The doctors office is connected to the hospital so we just walked on over, this time they had a room ready for us though! Discussing all of the bazillion questions with the nurse she suggests that if I'm leaning towards having an epidural sooner may be better. If I wait until the doctor breaks my water and things speed up I may lose the window of time in which to get one. I'm torn. Part of me says NO! You can do this. The other part of me says DO IT, you're tired, this hurts and you are really tired!. Exhaustion wins out and I tell her yes, I'll take an epidural pretty please.<br />
<br />
In the next few minutes waiting for the anesthesiologist I'm pacing back and forth trying to move as much as possible before I'm bed ridden....and POP! my water breaks. And I mean like <i>bursts</i>! It was almost hysterical really.<br />
<br />
They hook me up with the epi and I only have a few more contractions before I'm numb and can't feel a thing. The last epidural I had numbed me but didn't completely take away all of the pain. This one? Worked amazingly and I really could not feel a.single.thing. not even pressure. Now I'm a happy camper. What's an exhausted lady to do now that I''m numb? NAP. Yes, at this point I'm 8 cm and I fall asleep. Maybe an hour later the nurse wakes me and checks me. Complete, time to call the doc and see if we can deliver this fella.<br />
<br />
Literally, I wake up from a nap feeling happy...no pain or pressure and they watch the contractions on the monitor to tell me when to push. 5 or 6 pushes later I'm holding my boy.<br />
<br />
Aside from the frustration at the beginning of labor I'd have to say this was probably the easiest birth out of all of mine. :)Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-68787259958118756432013-01-31T15:41:00.000-08:002013-01-31T15:41:09.063-08:00AbandonedThis blog has been neglected.<br />
<br />
Abandoned.<br />
<br />
Life is crazy busy (in a good way) and I've not really had it in me to write out my thoughts for...what, over a year now really? Sigh.<br />
<br />
The next few weeks should be interesting.<br />
<br />
Stephen will turn 10.<br />
<br />
Mabel girl is about to have her first birthday on the same day that marks Ian & I being married for 13 years.<br />
<br />
Three weeks from today baby boy is due to make his entrance into this world.<br />
<br />
Most days/weeks just blur together and I'm left at the end of the month thinking, what happened to January?<br />
<br />
I guess I'm writing all this randomness just to record that yes, I'm still here. Hopefully I'll be inspired to blog more again, I do miss it. ~Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-88223945325730268182012-10-10T15:23:00.003-07:002012-10-10T15:23:37.383-07:00Glimpse of store life...Many people have already read this....but we were in the newspaper!!! Click the link below to read. :)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.pantagraph.com/business/local/mom-opens-up-children-s-clothing-resale-shop-in-bloomington/article_5a5e24d6-fd25-11e1-832d-0019bb2963f4.html">Newspaper Article</a>Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-84050024044726573662012-09-06T15:35:00.001-07:002012-09-06T15:35:30.699-07:00Glimpse of life right now<br />
<ul>
<li>Our oldest daughter turned 12 a few weeks ago, she's getting so old! She's participating in a writing class this year and is loving it. Writing is her passion.</li>
<li>We've entered the 5th month of being store owners. The business is plodding along. I'm still enjoying it, though I haven't come even close to mastering a balance between work and keeping up with housework! :P</li>
<li>Pregnancy is also plodding along, I'm approximately 14 weeks now. Glad to be out of the first trimester tiredness and nausea!</li>
<li>We're hosting our 3rd annual Birthday Bash this Sunday. It's one big party that we throw for all the kids instead of having 'friend' parties for each of the kids throughout the year. Should be a blast.</li>
<li>Mabel is nearing 7 months old already! I'll end this with a cute video of her giggle (please excuse my lousy camera work)...</li>
</ul>
<object height="480" width="800"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"></param>
<param name="movie" value="http://www.facebook.com/v/10151012212465764"></param>
<embed src="http://www.facebook.com/v/10151012212465764" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="1" width="800" height="480"></embed></object>Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-56257225891562248482012-07-18T14:13:00.000-07:002012-07-18T14:13:23.130-07:00Sharing 5 things<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcS4r8X1St4hUREkfDtKhII8sYoIfJ9z_3fioYHNgxhI-gkNSJux" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcS4r8X1St4hUREkfDtKhII8sYoIfJ9z_3fioYHNgxhI-gkNSJux" /></a></div>
<br />
Today I'm going to join in with <a href="http://www.overthemoonwithjoy.blogspot.com/">Kimmie</a> in her 5 things series:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5 words that best describe you</b></span>! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #bf9000; font-size: x-large;">Laura:</span><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #bf9000;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #674ea7;">Happy</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Anxious</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Nauseous</span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: #e69138;">Tired</span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: #e69138;">~ </span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: #e69138;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Preggo!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: #e69138;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"> </span> </span> </span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-30461389833842468602012-06-13T11:07:00.001-07:002012-06-13T11:07:44.625-07:006 months....almostMy heart is heavy.<br />
<br />
Next week we hit the 6 month mark.<br />
<br />
I thought one month was hard, now 6?<br />
<br />
Yesterday I logged in to Google Plus and was flipping through a friends pics of a graduation party we went to last summer....only to come across this gem. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wuycZN3gJnU/T9jU-Dv_wFI/AAAAAAAACEU/G-gxQvPXOCM/s1600/05.11+Hannah+Maletich+Graduation5559.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wuycZN3gJnU/T9jU-Dv_wFI/AAAAAAAACEU/G-gxQvPXOCM/s320/05.11+Hannah+Maletich+Graduation5559.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Meet Roar-y.<br />
<br />
He was Josiah's favorite stuffed animal, because he was all soft and fuzzy. Josiah was ALL about anything fuzzy. <br />
<br />
I didn't have a good picture of the two of them together...til now.<br />
<br />
God's sweet little mercies continue!Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366146947732877923.post-63966728452718772222012-05-04T11:29:00.000-07:002012-05-04T11:47:26.685-07:00Our New Business VentureOn the first of May our family officially opened a business, Duckygirl's Resale. I've had a few people ask me how things are working out (like: what in the world are the kids doing?) and what led us to decide to do this.<br />
<br />
Well, for pretty much all of our marriage we've talked about having a family business. Something that would allow us to be together but also provide the kids a place to learn and have their first jobs. If you've followed my blog for awhile you probably already know that I have been selling homeschool curriculum out of our house for about a year and a half. It wasn't busy by any means but it was a fun sort of hobby to have. I had dreamed about actually renting a storefront and giving it a go...but that seemed far off.<br />
<br />
Then Josiah....oh, sweet little boy...Josiah....<br />
<br />
Our world seemed to turn upside down.<br />
<br />
I'm not sure even what started the ball rolling but we started researching commercial buildings and the idea of selling children's clothing along with the curriculum.<br />
<br />
The research led to driving around, looking through buildings and lots of daydreaming.<br />
<br />
And you know what? It was good.<br />
<br />
Good to have a goal.<br />
<br />
Good to have a distraction.<br />
<br />
Good to have something to throw ourselves into so we aren't overwhelmed by grief.<br />
<br />
It's helped us to have something together as a family unit. <i>Totally</i> awesome at this time.<br />
<br />
So here we are finishing up our first opening week.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-chJUHaWKykk/T6QhSe9vjaI/AAAAAAAABn0/0BJF90LZjc8/s1600/461021_10150665896550764_576625763_9643092_2129819860_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-chJUHaWKykk/T6QhSe9vjaI/AAAAAAAABn0/0BJF90LZjc8/s320/461021_10150665896550764_576625763_9643092_2129819860_o.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
We have two rooms for the kids. One school room and one toddler room with toys and beds for the littles to nap. When there aren't any customers I'm in mom mode, hanging out with the kids and teaching them. When someone comes in I go out front and work. It's been a pretty smooth transition....I'll post pictures of the store and all the kid areas as soon as I remember to bring my camera with me! :)<br />
<br />
<br />Duckygirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08506011428037256664noreply@blogger.com11