A Husband And His Side Of The Story

On my last Not Me! Monday post, I wrote about how my husband had stopped to purchase gas for $2.39 a gallon instead of $2.09. Well, he was very concerned that all of my readers would think he was one of those guys and wanted to make sure you got to read his comment:

Tim posting here:

I'm glad everyone has enjoyed a few laughs at my expense over what can only be described as an impressive work of FICTION. Thus, while I appreciate the shout-out re: my chivalry at Marshall's, I must say that the gas-price post is (unintentionally, I'm sure) misleading, libelous, and truly unbelievable to those who really know me.

First - I pride myself on being economically rational. My kids have heard me rail non-stop about how those obliviots who pay $3.89 at the Shell when the Arco across the street is selling gas for $3.30 are negatively skewing the market by rewarding inefficient business practices (thereby diminishing the efficacy of our efforts to "vote" with our pocketbooks). In other words, cheap gasoline has no bigger advocate than Tim White. And to imply otherwise is calumny of the highest order.

Second - The charming Mrs. White apparently failed to appreciate that my actions were motivated not by fiscal foolishness or naivete, but instead by my overwhelming desire to keep my wife and children (terrestrial and in utero) safe and comfortable.

For the facts are these:

(A) I admit to not having committed to memory every point of ingress and egress along Highway 99 between midtown Bakersfield and the Grapevine, much less the price of gas at each service station along the route. I'll get to it right after I cure cancer.

(B) While leaving Bakersfield on southbound 99, Veronica's sole aim was to find a Sonic fast-food joint so she could get some shake or slurpee-like concoction that apparently is otherworldly. A family member in Bakersfield told me which exit to take to get to Sonic (it should have been visible from the offramp). Well, I take the exit, and there's no Sonic in sight. At this point, Veronica's quickly beginning to show signs of being, ummmm, "tired" (yeah, that's it -- "tired"), and she immediately (and unceremoniously) calls off the Sonic search.

(C) At that point, we were heading home, and the gas tank was a bit over a quarter full (which supposedly should get us around 110 miles or so -- but who knows, especially with the imposing inclines we were about to drive on). We certainly would need to refuel at some point on our trip (and sooner, rather than later). Previously, while driving around Bakersfield the prior day visiting family, I saw several gas stations selling gas for less than $2/gallon. [But that day we were focused on getting to events on time, not on getting gas.] On the non-Sonic exit, gas was going for $2.09. Far from being the fat-cat, big spender that the subject post makes me out to be, I actually was interested in SAVING money on gas that day, and thought that there would be a decent chance of finding something less than $2.09, given the lower prices I had already seen in town (the kids' college funds aren't going to fund themselves). Well, I apparently misjudged how many more exits were left in Bakersfield proper (apparently none), and needless to say, we soon found ourselves at THE LAST exit with gas stations before the long trek up and over the desolate, mountainous Grapevine. And, yes, the gas prices at all four stations there were $2.39. (Horizontal price fixing, anyone?)

(D) So, I quickly found myself on the horns of a dilemma. On the one hand, I absolutely HATED the idea of paying above-market prices for gasoline. But on the other hand, I had my wife and six children to think about. Should I pull a Kosmo Kramer, choose not to fill up, and risk running out of gas with my pregnant wife and young children in the vehicle while traversing the treacherous peaks and valleys of the Mordor-like Grapevine (with Donner Party images flashing through my mind)? Or should I pay the extra twenty cents per gallon (which totaled less than $3.00 extra), to ensure that my family remains safe and sound?

In other words, the central question is whether the assurance of my family's well being is worth more or less than the price of US magazine? To ask the question is to answer it, methinks.

So, ladies and gentlemen, I stand before you today, unwavering in the conviction that my actions on that cold winter day were noble and just, and not an appropriate target of scorn or derision. What say you?



What say me, Einstein??
That's what me says.

I do have to share my SIL, Natalie's, comment, too:

I say you embrace the pregnancy hormones and mail me a dictionary so I can follow your comment! LOL

I just love my husband. He thinks too hard about everything. So, Baby, I wasn't mad about the gas price issue, I was just mad. Like Natalie so wisely commented, it had to do with pregnancy hormones! So, if it wouldn't have been the gas, it would have been something else, Tim Dear. Haven't you learned this by now?? This is only the 5th pregnancy we have gone through together, and with the way the Lord seems to bless us so quickly and consistently with children, it seems this may happen again. Timmy, just sit back, enjoy the ride...God made you my husband because He knew most men would not be as patient, loving, understanding, and compassionate as you are!! No, really.

Thankful Thursday

Today I am thankful for the value of money that my parents instilled in me. As I was growing up, I truly had no idea that we weren't 'rich'. I had one of the most beautiful childhoods that when I describe it I use words like 'fairy tale' and 'perfect'. My parents were always hugging and kissing which provided a constant sense of security. We always had a hot-home cooked meal for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We ate together as a family all the time, too. My Mom worked very hard to provide a loving and warm home for us. I recall my Mom telling us the story of when money was tight and we ate beans and rice for over a month. I have no recollection of that. My parents would scrimp and save to do nice things for us. I will never forget those nice things. When they had saved enough to buy a home, my Dad did all the extra work around the house...remodeling and redoing bedrooms and the kitchen himself. I think I remember him reading a book on how to do it. The pride I got from seeing my Dad make something from nothing was always a "My Dad is smarter than your Dad!" feeling. My friends always wanted to be at our house. They said my parents were cool. I never quite got that, but I saw that there home lives might not have had what, I at the time, was taking for granted. A Mom that was there when I got home from school. A Dad that couldn't keep his hands off my Mom.

My Mom taught us how important we were to the functionality of our home. We had chores to do, that yes I hated, but now I see what a blessing it was. We got allowances religiously every Sunday. We would usually buy candy, since it was not something we were allowed to have during the week. My sister and I shared a room, wore hand me downs, and were happy as clams. We totally thought we were 'pretty well off'. My parents think that is funny now.

When I turned 16 and got my first real job, working at a copy center, my parents started to really teach me about the value of money. The rule went like this: 30% went into the bank, 30% went into my pocket, and the last 30% went to the household needs. Now that I was getting a paycheck, and since I was a member of this household, I was going to contribute. Boy, did I hate it then...but, I see now that it has been a saving grace for our family and our finances, as well. My friends would tell me that I needed to 'talk' to my parents about this. That they were being unfair. Talk to my parents? I don't think so. I did not question their authority or their decisions...at least not out loud. I started to see the reward of contributing. I had taken for granted for 16 years that there was always food on the table and a warm bed to sleep on, but now my Mom was letting me in on what the money I had just contributed went to. "I just used the money you gave me to buy groceries. We didn't have money to buy any, so your job is really helping." What? you didn't have money? I helped? Wow, I felt so important, so needed, so much a part of something bigger.

If my parents had not instilled this wonderful value in me, I think I probably would have been in a huge hole right now. However, it kept me wary of credit cards, which I have never had, and it made me wary of buying things that were overpriced and not needed. I am a huge clearance and bargain shopper. I am so not materialistic and I am also learning that the things I 'want' can be so unnecessary and that God may want me to give instead of get. So, I have to make sure that you understand that my parents, above all, taught me to give my first fruits to the Lord. Tithing was just a part of who I was so now as we are instilling this in our children, they will reap the same rewards that I did. They will know that money is not something to be treated lightly.

There are days that it feels like things are so tight that we wonder where we went wrong. Then there are days that I can go and get my toes done. Either way, God has always provided beyond measure. We have never gone without a place to lay our heads or a meal. Putting HIM first, getting our finances in order, and then maintaining the values my parents taught me has been such a blessing. I am looking forward to seeing how God is going to continually provide as our family continually expands. He promises to take care of us in His Word, and He is faithful to honor his promises. For that I am most thankful!!

Random Review Of The Week

Yeah, I can hear the "WHAT?!?" coming from the regular readers on my blog..."...Of the week?!". Well, so it has been about 2 months since my last review, but I feel like if I put week in the title it will put a fire under me to keep it up. So, I will keep the title the same even if the timing of these posts are as random as the review.

The Shampoo Rinse Cup

I bought ours a year or so ago at Walmart for $5.00. The reason I decided to do a review on this particular item is because I saw it at Babies R Us the other day, $4.99. My first thought was, ok so I guess people, like myself, are falling for this, since it has now become one of the featured items gracing the walkways at the local R Us store.

The description for this product reads: This easy-to-pour rinse cup helps keep shampoo and water out of your child's eyes during bath time. Simply rest the soft, rubbery panel against his or her forehead while pouring. It holds up to 48 fluid ounces. Colors and styles may vary.

-OK, it DOES hold 48 ounces of fluid.
-And, it does come in a variety of colors.
-But, big but here, it DOES NOT keep shampoo and water out of your child's eyes. Well, it could, I suppose if you did not have to use it like a regular old bucket you could have bought at a local hardware store, or at the 99¢ store. But, if you 'rested it softly' on their forehead, like I have, it will just pour out of the sides, streaming down the side of their face and actually not getting any of the soap out of their hair to begin with. I actually have to just use it like you would a cup or small tupperware container (That was working just fine before I invested in this product). I do use it anyway, since it happens to be in the tub, but it was not worth the money I paid, and I hate to be told something is going to work a certain way, only to find it totally does not.

So, the Shampoo Rinse Cup gets a 'you're all wet' review: Not worth the money. (Although, I did check a few reviews on line and some Mom's loved it while others felt like I did...good idea, bad product.) Like I said, just grab an old cup or a tupperware container that is missing a lid and use that instead. Or a friend was telling me that they sell these foam shower visor's, that are meant for this exact same thing, at asian stores that are only a $1.00 and her son loves it and it does the trick. Now to find that asian store....

(Stay tuned for a post my darling husband has requested I write. This should be very interesting. And can I say I am looking forward to your total support on this one!!)

Not Me! Monday

UPDATED POST: Dear friends, so many of you love the Lord. So many of you are married. So many of you know that being married is hard work, but it is a gift from God. So, please join me in heading over to ASHLEY'S blog and post her a comment of encouragement and then pray for her and her marriage. I know there are times we could use a friend, and our sister, Ashley, could use one now. Let's show her that God is hearing her cries!! God bless you. Now, read on for NOT ME! Monday....

Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.

Now, here is what I...I mean, that other woman... have not been up too...

That woman that you saw taking a deep whiff of the air in that Target bathroom, to 'check' and see if it would be safe to enter...it wasn't me. Not me. No way would I actually subject myself to the gnarly fumes that could be coming from a public bathroom while pregnant. Especially since the last several times that I tried to avoid taking a whiff, actually led to my having to puke in the Target trash can. It wouldn't make sense to actually go in and take a big ol' whiff. Gross.

And, when Tim was telling the kids about a gunman, in a hoodie, with a black handgun, running around the local strip mall, it was not my 3 year old that promptly yelled, "I WANT A GUN!!!" As if having a gunman, in a hoodie, with a black handgun, running around the local strip mall was super cool. No way, he would never ask for guns and swords and things like that for his upcoming 4th birthday. Not my son.

Also, as that nice family of 7 drove home from Bakersfield, back to San Diego, with another, totally different woman, in the front seat of the minivan, having that melt down; not me. I mean, come on! Did you see her?!? She was in such a bad mood, complaining, whining, in tears because her husband chose to pay $2.39 per gallon of gas, instead of stopping at the other station that was only $2.09. Honestly, that is ridiculous. Really? Tears? Over the price of gas? She looked like she needed a nap more than her little boys in the back seat did. And, if you could have read her thoughts, you know the ones that were so crazy that you would have told her husband to run, run like the wind, away from this insane woman, and for Pete's sake, take those sweet kids...well, if you would have been able to read her thoughts you would have known for certain that the crazy woman was obviously NOT ME!

Then, the other woman (Not the one at Target, or the minivan, because then the possiblity of it being the same woman could become real, and there is no way that this woman was me, so...) at Marshalls. Oh, she was a piece of work. She was standing in line to use the bathroom: young teenage girl in front, a mom with her child next, and the grandma in line directly in front of her, and couldn't hold it any longer. She wasn't me, almost 6 months pregnant, considering asking the mom with small child if she could cut in line (she's a mom, she understands), and then waving down her poor husband to come and do her a favor. She did not ask that poor husband to please check the men's bathroom, that was right next to the women's bathroom, so she could ditch this line and deal with the jug of water she had been drinking. No way was it her sweet husband that went in, closed the door behind him as you heard him flushing the toilet, several times, running some water, and then coming out and telling his wife (not me, of course), that he had checked it out for her and even laid down a toilet seat cover for her. She did not come out of that bathroom feeling like a princess, either, because her prince charming had once again saved the day! Those other women must have been so jealous of her, getting to use the men's bathroom, and having a seat cover laid down for her royal heinie. Too bad that she wasn't me, because that husband was sooo cute!

Here's to hoping that next Monday is a little less crazy for that woman. Please join me in prayer for her and that sweet family, because she sure was NOT ME!

When Do You Go From Boy To Man??

With as many sons as I have, the issue of boyhood to manhood, is a common one.

If you have sons, you have heard, do hear, or will hear this more than once:
Am I a big boy now? When will I be a big boy? I'm not a baby, I am a big boy!

So, here are a few hints for those little guys wondering if you have graduated to manhood yet...

-No more baths. Taking showers. That is a sure sign of being a 'man'. (Walker has gone to only showers now, since the start of 2009, and he says he will never take a bath again.)

-No more tightie-whities. Wearing boxer briefs. Or any type of boxers. Definitely is a sign of being a 'man'. (Walker used his giftcard to Target to buy new underwear like big brother and Daddy wear.)

-Sleeping on the top bunk. Now, only real men can do that.

-No more having to ask for help in the kitchen. You are now allowed to use a butter knife. Wow, that has got to be a sure fire sign that you are a bon-a-fide 'man'. (Walker takes this responsibility VERY seriously and reminds his younger brothers that they are too little to use a butter knife.)

-And you can't forget this one, per Walker, THIS makes you a MAN: "Doing 'big boy' chores like vacuuming, mopping, sweeping."

Hope he never, ever forgets that last one!!

Thankful Thursday

I have been thinking about my list and am finding that most of the things I am thankful for today, wouldn't necessarily be on a 'normal' persons list, but they keep me humble and remind me that I could not, not, not live this life without my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

1. I am thankful for the LOUDNESS at 8am. It reminds me that my hearing loss isn't as bad as I think it is. If my ears are ringing from the Hot Wheels crashing, the constant screaming, the bickering over a toy...well, then I still have some precious hearing left. It wasn't long ago that Tim and I discussed that it might be important for me to learn sign language, along with everyone else in our family, soon. Before my hearing is totally gone. It was quite a sad moment for me. A lot of denial. But, this morning, I have decided that I need to be thankful for the hearing I DO have, and pray that God heals my ears, or preserves what I do have.

2. I am thankful for the things I find out about my teenagers that I wish I didn't. Thinking back to how I was at their age can be scary, but helps me to understand them. (Even if they think I have never been through the things they go through, or feel, or wonder about...I wish they knew I did and totally understand them. More than they could ever know.) So, having the Holy Spirit give Tim and I wisdom as parents about things that my teenagers wish to keep from us, but we discover, well it is a blessed thing. Really, it is, because we are able to address the situations before they get out of hand and lead them in another direction and hope they see that we do it out of love, not of trying to ruin their lives. (Remember how if your Mom found out about something you were hiding, and punished you for it, no matter how big or small, it always felt like she was out to destroy you?? I always was such a drama queen and thought my Mom was on earth just to ruin my life. Boy, did I learn quickly, when I became a Mom, that she did it out of love. I realize that my kids probably won't realize this until they become parents, either.) So, as we dealt with some issues this past weekend with both our kids Tim and I stopped first to give glory to God for opening our eyes, for helping us through this. It was just His perfect timing through it all and I pray my children learn a lesson from this that will really touch them in a way that they will never forget. I love those kids more than they could ever, ever know.

3. I am thankful for 'bad news'. I mean, not that I am doing a happy dance over receiving 'bad news', but it helps me to realize that there are bad things happening all around me, and possibly to me, so I then find such comfort seeking the peace that only my Heavenly Father can provide and crying out to Him for help and mercy and direction. It also helps me to see just what a loving, strong, faithful, God fearing husband I have in Tim. He has been a rock to me lately, and I wish I could share the sweet emails or encouraging conversations we share as he lifts me up and reminds me that God would NEVER forsake us. So, God will use anything, anything for HIS glory. He also promises that "...all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)

4. Lastly, I am thankful for each ache and pain I have been feeling lately due to the pulled muscle (I will see my Dr today and find out if that is really what it is. It has actually gotten worse.). It reminds me that I am so blessed to be able to feel pain when I walk...that I CAN walk. It reminds me that I have a precious child being fearfully and wonderfully made in my womb. It reminds me that yes, I am older(Not exactly elderly like the doctors say.), but 36 is a great age! I still have a long life ahead of me, I hope. It reminds me that this 'elderly' body has had the privilege of going through 7 pregnancies, and delivering 5 healthy children and hopefully another in June. It reminds me that my body is a temple and that God is using me in miraculous ways to be a mother, by going through pregnancy, and labor, and birth, and nursing my child. How amazing my body is! And if you are a mother too, how amazing your body is! So, don't complain about saggy breasts, or stretch marks, or that belly that is still hanging around...there are so many women that would LOVE to be in your position. Instead, thank God for all those things that serve as a reminder of what a blessing it is to be someone's mommy.

So, yes, all of these are things that could have totally brought me down. Could have kept me in bed wallowing in my pity, but God is so much bigger than all this! What comfort he gives me. So, in all things I will be thankful!! God's Word says:
"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful."
Colossians 3:15

Halfway Done

Guess who turned 20 weeks pregnant today?

We did go in for our 20 week sonogram last week...a few days early, and it was confirmed, for the 3rd time now, that yes, this baby is truly an ISABELLA GRACE! Praising God for our little girl. Since this is our 6th child and we have never 'found out' before, we definitely felt like having 3 different people, tell us that she is a girl indeed, was very necessary.

I am feeling much better now. The nausea is almost a distant memory, but now the aches and pains begin. I even pulled a groin muscle the other night, and have been hobbling around for a few days. I have been instructed, by my husband, that today is bed rest. Doesn't he realize their is laundry to be done and blog posts to write? However, as soon as I hit publish on this post, I will lay in bed all day except for potty breaks. Thank God, once again, for M and K! I do have a doctor's appointment in the morning, so I will have it looked at just to make sure. I did self diagnose, so it could be something totally different.

Please, if you get a moment, pray for our little girl. Just that God has His hand all over her as she continues to be wonderfully made in my womb.

Not Me! Monday

Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.


So, she does this post every Monday...the Not Me! post...a post where you can be completely honest and candid, live to tell about it, while we pretend that we actually did not really do any of the things you post about. She has listed some pretty candid things. How about this for candid: Peeing in a Subway cup? No, not MckMama. So, here is my first Not Me! Monday post, although, you know that with my super busy life I can't promise that it will happen every Monday, or even on a Monday, for that matter.

So, I did NOT find an old bag of Reese's Easter Eggs in a hidden away box and proceed to eat 2 the other night. No, not me!! Of course, I didn't. That would be gross since Easter was almost a year ago.

And, when Walker felt bad that he had a little accident before he got to the Costco bathroom yesterday, due to a sneeze, I did not proceed to tell him that I also have that problem. No way, not me! What little boy would want to know that about their Mama?!!

Of course, I did not leave a load of clothes in the washer, hoping that Karizma would put them in the dryer for me (which she did) without having to ask her. No, not me! It did not happen to be around the time I was sitting in my room with the door closed eating the old and stale chocolate eggs. Uh-uh, no way.

I would say that I seem to have an issue with hoarding candy lately, but that would mean admitting that I bought a bag of gummy bears, opened it and again proceeded to eat it in that corner of my room praying none of the kids would knock on the door and I would have to share. Not me!! What kind of mother would do that?!?!?

And lastly, I did not go to the grocery store, buy a bag of Astro Pops, (you know, like Big Sticks?) and tell Walker that he and his brothers couldn't have any because they are pregnancy pops, only for women that are pregnant, and let him believe every word of what I was saying. NOT ME, NOT ME, NOT ME!

If any of these things were true, I would have to be seen by a therapist or something. They would surely tell me I have some issues with food, hoarding, and the biggest one (which I seem to have to discuss with my children on a daily basis), 'does not share well with others'. Not me, because that would make me a horrible example. Maybe that is why I don't eat these treats alone in my bedroom.

(Scroll down for a post from last night...a 'sticks foot in mouth post')

Sticks Foot In Mouth (NOT): The Jr. Edition

For those of you that have been reading my blog for awhile, you are familiar with the 'sticks foot in mouth' posts. For those of you that want to be in the know, check out how far Tim got his foot in his mouth here, or for Walker's edition click here. I am happy to say that today is a 'sticks foot in mouth...NOT' edition. Check out how much my 5 year old blessed me throughout the day, and just the cute things that he says.

The setting: Costco

The blesser: Walker

The blessed: Me, praise God!

Walker and I are standing in front of a bulletin board that highlights employees that have gotten recognition from customers. One of the words on the board reads 'light'. Walker asks me if the word says light, I tell him that he is so smart and got it right. Then he says:

"Mom, I'm not smart, I just have a good memory and the bestest teacher in the whole world!!"

(Homeschooling Mom, me, beaming from ear to ear...then, try not to laugh at his 'I'm not smart comment'. Instead I let him know he is VERY smart...he got the bestest teacher in the world answer right...he is a genius in my book.)


Then we walk out to the car and Walker wraps his little arm around my waist (thankfully not to measure my hips this time.) Then this angel of a son says to me:

"Mom, it is such a joy being your son."

(Heart melting all over the place.)


Once we got home to our mountain, the boys put their 'mountain boots on (They are really just rain boots, but work perfect out here.) and we went out for an adventure walk. It is really beautiful up here, so taking a walk anywhere turns into an adventure through trees, pinecones, and lovely views of the mountain side. We actually wanted to go check out a property that was for rent down the way. As we were heading down the road, Walker says:

"Mom, be careful! The cars go really fast around those dead side curves!"

Then, as we get close to the rental property he says:

Walker: "This house is for went."

Me: "Went?"

Walker: "Yeah, went, you know, like you went a movie?"

(Walker just before his 4th birthday...over a year before we moved to the mountain)
(Destined to be a mountain man)


I LOVE THAT KID.

Thankful Thursday

-I am thankful for the little girl growing in my womb. Although, this past week and a half have felt like all I want to do is sleep, it is a blessing to know God is adding to our quiver.

-I am thankful for the girl that just called from Kaiser to remind me about my ultrasound. I knew about the appointment but HAD NO IDEA it was at a different location than usual. If she wouldn't have called, I would have missed my appointment and felt bad that Tim had taken off work.

-I am thankful for Target clearance racks. I made out like a bandit this week and always feel like I accomplished something major when I see myself paying less than 20% of what something originally cost.

-I am so thankful for Miguel. That he can be so respectful and willing to do anything I ask of him, really. Like whenever we go to Costco....Zack seems to have the hardest time there, so to avoid serious embarrassment, I will ask Miguel to take Z outside until he calms down, and he always does it with a look of understanding and compassion towards me. I am truly blessed to have him as my son.

-I am so thankful for soap and water. After watching my boys get so dirty today out on our mountain with their cousins and friend, Jacob, it was a blessing to see what their skin looked like again, once it was clean. Praise God for bath time!

-I am so thankful for my king size bed, clean sheets, and cotton nightie, which I plan to go put on, yes at 6:39pm, because I did not get my nap today and I am super cranky, along with Zack, whom also did not get his nap. I am totally feeling like he must feel right now...grouchy, tired, and in serious need of some SLEEP!! So, thank you, Lord, that I have Miguel and Karizma to help get the boys into bed later tonight so I can get to bed with my little man. And also for Timmy whom has been working day and night on a case, because without his tireless heart to provide, we couldn't afford the nice bed, sheets and nightie.

CALL ME BLESSED.

(Update at exactly 3am in the morning: HELP. NEED SLEEP. HEAD THROBBING. SLEEP. PLEASE, SLEEP. It took Zack 20 minutes of constant tears, and he never cries like that, to fall asleep. I am still a zombie and nowhere close to falling asleep. At least I got my checkbook balanced and got caught up on my blog reading. Think this is a precursor for times to come in June?!?)

Huge One I Forgot On The Personal Questions List Below

I wrote a post about personal questions that people seem to think are not and they feel free to ask. Well, I have many family members and friends whom I am praying for in regards of wanting a baby. Either, they just started trying, or one whom has been trying for over 8 years. Although, I could never understand what it is like to yearn for so long to have your womb filled, my heart is heavy for these loving couples who seek so much to have children and raise them up to be soldiers for the Lord. So, if you haven't read the original post, you can scroll down one post, or you can do so here. Then come back and read my addition to the list:

For those wives so longing for a baby. For those husbands so desiring to be a Daddy. For those couples that have the heartbreak each month when the test is negative, this is for you (These are questions that they themselves have told me they have been asked before and over and over and over....):

-How long have you been married, and still NO kids?!?! When you ask a question like this, you have no idea what the issues behind the scenes may be. What if they are medical? What if they are issues of infertility? Do you really want to put someone in a position to put you in your place...because you would totally deserve it.

-Are you pregnant yet?This is along the same lines as above, but I can assure you that when this question was asked on a VERY REGULAR basis from a very dear friend of mine, that it broke her heart each time. Although you might mean well, and are just curious, it is a reminder that she isn't the only one noticing that her belly is not being blessed with a child. Please, be considerate to all the possiblities that might keep a couple from becoming parents.

-Why haven't you had kids yet? Don't you want any? If you only knew how much these hearts desired to have their quiver full! Be sensitive.

-And for the real doozy: Is something wrong with you? Is something wrong with him? Another friend had someone at a party ask her this. The funny, well maybe not so funny thing is, is that most people that ask these questions are people that are either strangers or just acquaintances that seem to feel they have the right to dig into your very personal life, your heart. I do know that most people are just curious and are not trying to be malicious, but it is something that we should all take a minute to think about. Should I really ask this question or is it worth the possible strife I might cause this person. Better yet, just think before you speak. Most of what we want to say is TOTALLY unneeded.

Again, this was only meant for the YOU's that would actually cross this line. I know that most of the people that read my blog would never ask questions like this...on the other hand, you are the ones having to deal with the questions being asked of you.

Questions That Are Asked As If They Totally Aren't Personal

Since I have lots of mommies that read my blog that have many children, and many of you are quiver full minded (trusting God to plan your family, trusting Him with your wombs Psalm 127), I thought I would bring up a few questions that people ask as if they totally aren't personal questions to begin with.

- Are you pregnant? If you have to ask this question, then you are taking a VERY big chance that the woman you are asking is either, yes pregnant, or not. If she is not, you will be causing her a great deal of trauma by announcing that her worst fears are true: I do still look pregnant. If she is pregnant and hasn't felt the need to share the news with you as of yet, you are placing her in a position of having to lie. So, just DON'T ASK!

- Are you planning on having more? Are you done having children? Are you kidding me? Do you really think that I wish to discuss something as intimate as my sexlife with you? I mean, you aren't asking about that specifically, however, my sexlife with my husband does have a HUGE part to do with our reproduction. I understand that we are a bit of a phenomenon by having more than 2.3 children, but please refrain from asking this question. I will say that I do make sure to use this opportunity to share that we are trusting the Lord with our family planning. That we are waiting on Him in this area, and that although we struggle with obedience, we are always grateful for his blessings in the form of a child. I am a sinner and I falter. I fall and have to seek Jesus to pick me back up, so even though I find it rude for people to ask this question, I will continue to use it as a way to talk about trusting in God and how blessed we are. I would be insane to think the questions would end.

- You homeschool your children? What about socialization? I suppose this doesn't really fall under the category of 'personal questions', however, it still ticks me off. My children are with me 99% of the time, so all you have to do is watch. Do they look like they lack socialization skills? If you have met my children, you would know they are very well adjusted, kind, respectful, and caring human beings...down to the littlest one. I don't go questioning you about why you are letting your child throw a tantrum in the middle of the aisle at the store while you pretend to not see him. I don't ask you why you are allowing your child to call you ugly names in public (I shudder to think about what happens in the privacy of your own home) as you cave in and let him have the candybar you already said he couldn't have. We all struggle as parents, however, I find it so intrusive that you would feel it is your right to question me about my children's upbringing when I wouldn't dare do it to you.

- And my absolute favorite: Oh, your husband is a lawyer? How much does he make? You must be rollin' in it! Seriously, you are delusional if you really think I am going to share the balance of my checkbook with you. This would be a rude question to ask anyone, but assuming that just because my husband can add the 'esquire' to the end of his name would make us rich...HA HA HA...you need to research just how expensive it is to go to law school. Student loans can feel like a mortgage payment most months.

And as a little tribute to my sweet blogger friend, now a mama of 6 herself, over at The Williams Bunch, please, please don't say things like this to a pregnant woman:
- Are you having twins? You look ready to pop any minute!
- You sure are getting big!!
- For the women that are in their last trimester and run into people: Still pregnant, huh?

So, I will get off my soap box. And please know when I was saying you, I wasn't referring to YOU, unless you are one of the people that ask questions like these. I just had to get this off my chest because my SIL has been getting these a lot lately, too, and well, I just don't like people messing with her. So there.

How It All Began

10 years ago, our story started. And, I could never have imagined then what God had planned for me and Tim.

I prayed just 1 month before, in December 1998 that God would provide me with a loving and caring man to one day be a Daddy to my 2 sweet children. Little did I know that the clean cut, always too serious, 'white' boy at my work would be the one. He had been under my nose for over a year. It really is a long story, but God was in every detail. Down to meeting every desire of my heart in Tim; down to eye color and height. I just knew in my heart, on December 28th of 1998 that he was the one. Now, to make him know it, too.

So, the plan began...he was heading down to Rosarito, Mexico to go have lobster with some friends from work. "Wow, what a coincidence, I was headed down there, too!", I mentioned in a phone call where he had mistaken me for someone else. Yeah, right. Mexico was no where on my calendar. However, I wanted to be close to Tim and saw an opening. He seemed happy to have me and my friends joining his group.

I remember on the morning of January 9th of 1999 going to Forever 21 and finding the cutest pink top. He still refers to that top to this day. It is sitting in a memory box with old letters and photos now. We had lobster and margaritas and went dancing with a large group of friends. He called me 'old and haggard' and thought it was funny. It made me furious. However, I think it also made me more determined to show him that this chick was in no way old or haggard. He called it 'game'...and reminds me often that it obviously worked. Can't argue with that 5 pregnancies later, can you? He danced the dosie-do..yes, the dosie-do..he never claimed to be a good dancer, or a dancer for that matter. But, what had me glued to that face was the backwards hat. His hair peeked out from under and he was just so gosh darn cute. I was falling hard, and I didn't even think he felt the same. Thankfully when I went to give him a kiss on that cool January night, he didn't pull back...and it has been sweet history ever since. So, this my friends is how it all began.

I Love A Good Deal!

As many Americans can relate, things have been tight in the $$ area. So, either we go without or have to catch a really good deal. We had to venture off the mountain to run some errands and it was a good night!

First, we went to Karizma's orthodontist. She got her retainers today. I thanked God for having all this paid off beforehand, over a year ago, because there is no way we could have afforded it now. So, in my book, great deal!!!

Secondly, I was starving, but did not want to spend a ton on food for myself and 5 kids. We stopped at Little Caesars. What a deal, $5.00 for a large pizza. We were all happy and fed!

Thirdly, (is that a word??) gotta have dessert right? So, we headed to McDonald's and the kids got free kiddie cones. I love free!

Fourthly, (yeah, I realize they probably aren't words, but just bear with me, ok?) I had to head to Babies R Us to buy a baby shower gift. I went to check out an item and found that if I bought one, I could get the second 50% off. Woohoo...so, I was able to get myself one, too! It was a two sided Boppy cover that sells regularly for $20. With the 50% off deal, it goes down to $10, and with my $5 off coupon, it went down to $5.00...then add my 15% off coupon and I walked out with that cover for $2.00!!! How cool is that? The boys picked it out and I was happy they didn't pick the bright pink one for Isabella Grace. They picked a pretty purple one. Not that I am against pink, but something tells me it is possible to have pink overload.

Fifthly, well, there wasn't a fifthly, but hey...you read about the HUGE savings on the Boppy cover, right?!?! I have a feeling my SIL, Nat, will be so proud of me!

Secret Santa Gifts Revealed

You may remember a post I wrote this past December about the kids doing a secret santa exchange. If not, check out that post here. Well, it was great seeing how they each picked gifts for one another and how they used their own money. Here are the gifts revealed:

Zack's gift was given to him by Walker. Walker's first idea was a slinky, then he went to a microphone, but when he saw this dinosaur, he couldn't resist. Zack loves him! (Walker did lots of extra chores around the house to earn the cash for his gift.)

Christian's gift was given to him by Karizma. She seemed to know exactly what to get him, and he has been playing with that overgrown frisbee EVERYDAY. It is a family favorite, actually. (Karizma used some of her birthday money to bless her little brother.)

Walker's gift was given to him by Miguel. Miguel also knew exactly what his little brother would want. If you could only see all the little circle marks all over the windows at our house. They have even tried to get Daddy between the eyes with this nerf shot gun. (Miguel used some of his allowance to buy his gift for Walker.)

Karizma's gift was given to her by Christian. Tim took him shopping for it. I had told Tim to make sure and let Christian pick it out all by himself. He said that Christian wanted to get her a game. They went to the game aisle at Target, and he saw the Deal or No Deal box and went for that one right away. He knows Karizma well. I love that they do know their siblings so well and I will do the secret santa thing every year from now on. (Christian had no cash, did no extra chores, but picked the most expensive gift by far.)

Miguel's gift was given to him by our little Zack. I took Zack to Walmart and stuck him in the middle of the aisle way by paper products. Not on purpose...just happened to be there when I remembered that he still had not picked out his gift for his big brother. I didn't think he would get the idea of the secret santa, but went through the motions anyway. "Now, Zack, you have to pick a gift for Miguel, ok? Whatever you want, ok, Buddy?" He listened, and started to walk past the paper towels, paper plates. He turned the corner and walked past cleaning products. I asked him, "See anything for Miguel yet?" He did not answer, but had a certain determination in his step. I thought to myself, this could go on forever. He rounded that aisle and was about to head down aisle #3, when he stopped, turned to one of the end bins. You know, the ones that usually have stuff on sale or clearance...except that this one had air freshener on it. He stops, studies the shelves, and says, very clearly I might add, "This one!" and picks the 'fresh linen' scent. I was laughing so hard, I am sure everyone in Walmart heard me and thought I was some mad woman standing in front of the Glade products. We all got a HUGE laugh out of it on Christmas morning, because the gift was just so fitting. Love you, Miguel. So, even the littlest of the crew knew what the secret santa experience entailed, and I doubt anyone could have done a better job!! (Zack used some of the birthday money he had just received to pay for that lovely can of spray.)

Next Christmas' exchange should be really funny since one of the kids will only be 5 months old. However, I doubt any exchange will ever top Zack's pick for Miguel this year. It still makes me crack up...

Thankful Thursday: My 2008

I probably won't remember it all, and have so much to be thankful for, but here goes:

January 2008: My cousin Jackie gives birth to a beautiful little boy and I have the pleasure of being at her beside during most of her labor and watching this angel be born. I will never, never, never forget this experience and I am so grateful to have been a part of this!

February 2008: God provided for us big time financially with our tax return. His timing is ALWAYS perfect.

March 2008: I got to do 2 things for the first time this weekend...go horseback riding and watch snow fall. And I was blessed to do it among the women of my church at a retreat. It was such a sweet weekend and I had so much fun! This was also the month that my SIL went into the hospital with a bag of broken water at only 22 weeks pregnant... seeing her determination to carry this baby through, although the doctor's said it could not happen was very inspiring, plus the silver lining in this was getting to spend over a week loving on my niece and nephews. I will never forget that week with 8 kids...it was a blast!

April 2008:This was the hardest month ever of my life, but God showed me he would never leave me and that he was there with every tear that rolled down my cheek, with every cry I belted out, with every time I curled up into the fetal position. I won't go into the details of my anguish that month, but I questioned so much about myself, so I am thankful for that experience, because it made me really stop, think, and be a better mother. We also moved up to the mountain this month and it has been such a blessing. I love it up here! Dirt road and all!

May 2008:I celebrated my 36th birthday with a surprise birthday dinner from my husband, and a birthday party given by my sweet girlfriends. I needed that, after April! Tim and I were able to go away for an anniversary weekend to a nice secluded cottage and go horseback riding again. Tim really was into the details for our 7th anniversary...we even got to go air gliding. That was amazing!!! And to end my May with a big miracle bang, my gorgeous niece, Gracen was born at 32 weeks, healthy and strong. God showed himself so much through her.

June 2008: We have our Pastor and his wife up to our mountain for dinner. It was such a great time and although I already loved them and held them in high regard, I now felt such a bond with them as well. They have been one of the biggest blessings in our life.

July 2008:My grandmother turns 94 and is an amazing health!! We get that check from the government, I forget what it was called, and buy an above ground pool. The kids LOVE it and I love watching them have so much fun.

August 2008:This month was a very defining one for me as a wife. I really had to be obedient and trust God on an issue that is one of the dearest to my heart...my womb. Tim wanted to start a new medication that would be harmful if I became pregnant. So, this would mean using birth control, which we had agreed when we got engaged we would not use. I submitted, trusting that God would take care of it all. God as always, showed himself faithful, by having my husband call me at my women's retreat and ask forgiveness. Tim is always quick to say sorry. I am extremely grateful for that quality in my husband. We shared in the joy that God was the author of our family and once again left my womb in his hands, as it should be. Being a quiver full family, is a blessing, but it is also a constant growing experience. It is about submission, and obedience, and GREAT reward when you do them.

September 2008: I was terrified to begin homeschooling a highschooler, but as with anything that you place in God's hands, he takes it and does wonders. We have an awesome month in school. God also restores, well actually I should say heals a relationship that meant so much to me. My friendship with this person has become something very beautiful and valuable in my life.

October 2008:In true form, God never waits long to bless my womb when we submit...we are pregnant for the 7th time. Tim is overjoyed and begins to ask everyone to please pray for a little girl. We have our families up to celebrate the one year anniversary of Dan and Natalie's salvation. It was such a sweet month!

November 2008:I am sick, really sick this month. But, God shows me that as much as I questioned my role as mother, that he has been working on my children through me. I see this month as one of the most fruitful because my sweet children step up and take care of me, our home, and their Daddy without being asked. Even Natalie and the kids stepped in and helped. I am so blessed.

December 2008:This has been a super great month! I am finally feeling better, we found out we are having a little girl, Tim got lots of time off work, we were able to spend Christmas with lots of family, our big screen finally got fixed, a medical concern of mine turned out to be nothing, and Tim and I have really had a chance to be like old times together. We sat one night and thought about what we had been doing different since we moved up here, because sometimes things were tense, really tense between us lately. We figured it out: We had been going on weekly dates, until we moved up here. We started doing them again, and voila, what a difference a date made!! Thank you, Jesus, for being in each detail for us this year. I thank you for each trial because they made me stronger in you, seeking you, and learning to be content in the moment, and able to see the fruit for my patience. I remember thinking exactly 1 year ago...2008 is really going to be different...it was. It was hard, it was trying, and it was the most growth I have had as a Christian as well. So, I thank my God for it ALL.

**a little shout out to our TV repair guy. He assured me that my husband's beloved big screen could be fixed. He figured out the problem and it was a $200 part. Well, needless to say, we did not have the money, so we told him we would have to wait. He then tells Tim 'Merry Christmas, my gift to you, just pay it forward.' What a sweet testament to our children that God IS in the details and He does care even about the little things, like our big screen. God used Paul to bless us and we will be paying it forward. . We have already started to think of ways...

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO MY FAITHFUL READERS AND ALL YOU LURKERS, TOO!!! GOD BLESS YOUR 2009...EXPECT GREAT THINGS FROM OUR GOD!

(For those of you following Stellan's progress on the prayer request, go here for his update! He is doing MUCH better, praise to God!)