What the heck??

So...I just looked at my blog and why oh why are the faces of my followers all gone??? HMMM....maybe this is a crazy Google thing.  I hope they all come back......

So Emotional --

I have been so emotional lately!  SHEEESHHH!!!  Even more so since little Halle came to be with us.  I can cry at the drop of a hat...especially if it involves babies and/or the birth of those babies.  I usually cry when watching a "Baby Story" but...this is crazy!  AND...I just re-read our Christmas letter and got choked up again.  I'm wondering...I believe our Jesus does this to us Mommies...He gives us such tender hearts.  Hearts that love our little babies so much.  Then again, maybe it's because it's Christmas time and we're celebrating yet another Christmas without my Dad.  This will be the third Christmas without my Dad.  He so loved Christmas...he loved being with family, the gift exchanges and just resting in God's love.  He read the Christmas story to us every Christmas Eve and always tried to guess what his presents would be under the tree.  That turkey...the crazy part was he was usually right!  I guess after you open so many t-shirts and DVD's it just becomes second nature!!  HEHEHEHE!  You know what else?  He loved to find the perfect Christmas tree.  We would traipse around the Christmas tree farm for what seemed like hours...oh wait...it was hours until we found the perfect tree.  Sometimes we wouldn't agree with him and finally he got fed up with us.  He just started buying the trees all by himself.  Sometimes already cut!  I do specifically remember one year when I was upstairs in my room and Dad hollered for me to come down and help him with the tree.  I came down the stairs to find him wrestling with the tree.  It was crooked so he decided it would be a good idea to tie fishing line to the trunk and attach that to a nail in the wall!  OH MY!!  That was crazy!  But...his tree was straight after that...what can I say?  I mentioned how he loved gift exchanges.  Well, we have a gift exchange from my Mom's extended family and each year Dad would go WAY over the $25 budget.  One year he even brought a remote control PT cruiser. That topped it all!!  We know Dad is enjoying Christmas in Heaven now...can you imagine!??  WOW!!

A Visit with Auntie Dena

Auntie Dena came to visit us this week and we were so glad she did!  Just her....thanks Uncle Josh for hanging with the kids we really appreciate it!!  She arrived about 9pm on Wednesday and because of this winter storm we're having she had to leave about 2pm on Saturday!  What fun we had.  On Thursday Auntie Sarah, Auntie Denise and their kiddos came to visit and meet Halle for the first time....they came at 10am and we had so much fun we traveled into Lynden for lunch at the Fairway Cafe.  What a blessing they are to us!!  Dena and I went to our favorite store, Fairway Country Furnishings and finished some Christmas shopping.  Halle was a good girl and enjoyed hanging out in her stroller.  On friday, we all slept in...including Miss Halle.  We ventured into town to the Family Bookstore and The Little Red Wagon...then, we got to meet Auntie Jess and Justice at Starbuck's!!  HOORRRRAAAYYYY!!!  We had lots of fun and can not wait to see them all again.  On Saturday morning before she left Auntie Dena gave Halle a bath.  I was not looking forward to this....as every time I have given her a bath she has screamed her head off!!  Not fun, for me or her!  But...Auntie Dena rocked!!!  And Halle didn't make a peep...and now, Mommy can do it too!  Having three kids and one on the way, makes for a relaxed, wisdom-filled Mommy and I needed that!!  I'll leave you with a picture of Mr. Justice...he is the cutest.  I can't believe how chubby he is now....and he so reminds me of his big Brother, Jake when he was that age!  But...he has red hair like his big Sis, Savannah.  Honor was home with Daddy, so...hopefully, we'll get to see him next time.  

Christmas Tree

I just got finished decorating the Christmas tree...Halle sat in her bouncy seat and watched me until she fell asleep.  I just love decorating the tree...don't you?  Aaron and I put the lights on together last night and I did the rest this evening.  I remember as a kid decorating the tree and how my Mom liked to move the ornaments from the spot my sister and I had put them.  She liked a nice tree...I do as well....like Mother like Daughter.  We also both picked Noble Firs for our trees....of course, they are the most expensive.  But, growing up we always had a Noble Fir and that's what I'm used to.  As I was decorating the tree I was remembering....with each ornament.  This snowflake I got at Kyle & Angela's wedding, I remember the bazaar where I got some of my first ornaments....these faith, family & friends ornaments I got from Candace the year my Dad died...these bells I got for a wedding gift...the snowflakes as well...Grandma Carla gave these Noah's Ark ornaments to me.  We have guitar ornaments for Aaron, one my Mom got especially for him on a trip to Lincoln City, Oregon....we have many Smore's ornaments...a guitar one, a bbq one and this year...Baby's First Christmas for Halle.  AND...another Baby's First Christmas from Auntie Gail & Uncle Gary for Halle.  I do love that all my ornaments don't match...it's a country Christmas tree...right down to the raffia tied on it...and that's just fine by me!  Tell me about your tree!!

Happy Anniversary!

Today is our 5th wedding anniversary!  I have been married to this wonderful man for five whole years.  I can hardly believe it!  To celebrate, Halle is going to stay with Nana and Papa tomorrow so we can go to a movie and out to dinner.  AND...we are going to get a wedding band made for my ring.  We are very excited about that and had planned to do this before we got "the call" about Halle.  So, we've put it off for a little while.  I could tell you so many things about Aaron.  He's handy, cute, cuddly and most of all...he loves Jesus with all his heart and soul.  Now adding to the list is the fact that he is truly the best Daddy ever.  Halle loves her Daddy so much...that is already evident.  She is truly a Daddy's girl!  I love that!  I love to see Halle asleep on her Daddy all sweet and content.  I love that he calls her "Halle Bear".  I love that he loves me...when I have spit up all over, I haven't showered and I need a haircut.  God placed this AMAZING man of God in my life just when I needed him.  I could not have asked for a better mate.  One who fits me so well.  I love you Aaron!!  I'm looking forward to many, many, many more anniversaries...........Your Princess

Feeling Blessed

Wow!  I promised a post about our amazing Texas adoption journey, but...that will have to wait.  Now I just wanted to share about the many blessings we have received through this journey.  I need to eat, shower and get ready, but...that can wait.  Can I just tell you how much I love my daughter?  Even though she decided it was a good idea to spit up ALL over Mommy and herself last night after her last feeding....and then only slept an hour before she woke up hungry again?  Silly girl...but, she did then sleep 7 1/2 hours after that...thank you JESUS!!  I love that when you're feeding her and she's in that milk coma she does this little grin thing with her bottle in her mouth....I love her little chicken legs and how the insides of her hands and the bottom of her feet are still pink...and her curly hair that is still soft and silky....oh....the list could go on and on.  I just want to thank EVERYONE for the many blessings we have received....money, gift cards to Walmart, kind words, prayers....diapers, formula, clothes.  We are so blessed and we want to thank you for all of that.  I just sent off our Christmas card to Costco.  This is the first year I haven't made them, but...trust me, the picture will make up for all of that!  And...I need to work on a Christmas letter later!!!  But, that can wait! 

Happy Thanksgiving~

HOORRRAAAAAYYYY!!!  We are home for Thanksgiving...we have so much to be thankful for this season.  This is going to be quick...I need to eat breakfast (we didn't get home until about 1am), shower, bathe Halle and get her ready to meet her Grammie and Auntie Amber.  On this Thanksgiving 2008 we are so overwhelmed with God's love for us, His amazing Grace, our Daughter Halle, our loving families.  We love you all and please stay tuned for the amazing Texas adoption adventure we had!!  And sorry, no pictures....we can't post until the adoption is final...that's 6 months away.  So, we'll look into it and send you pictures via e-mail!!

Today is the Day!

This has been our theme song through all of this! Lincoln Brewster's..."Today is the Day" Well, today truly is the day. We have an appointment at the agency at 9am....that's in 50 minutes...count them......we will sign paperwork and meet our daughter. Aaron and I enjoyed our day yesterday despite our bright and early flight out of Bellingham. We arrived in Tyler around 6:15pm. BUT...not before sampling "Sonic" before we arrived. AND...last night we enjoyed dinner at Chili's. We decided we would like to open both of these restaurants in Bellingham. Who wants to help us? HEHEHEHE!! Well, I have my tea and I'm going back the room now to pack the diaper bag....the car seat is in the car. AND...it is so cold here....35 degrees to be exact!!! I"ll try to keep this updated! Keep praying...we love you all!

Please pray...

For me...I'm getting rather anxious....I know God is here with me, but...satan is trying to stick his nose in.  I don't like that.....if you get the chance pray for me.....I would reallly appreciate it.

Getting Ready

Wow!  Yes, I should be in bed!  NO, I'm not.  The washing machine is going and so is the dryer...and Aaron is already in bed asleep.  I can't sleep....I'm waiting until I get really tired.  That should be shortly.  I have washed so many pink pieces of clothing I think I lost count!  I love every single one of them.  The little socks, blankets, onesies and the cutest jeans you have ever seen.  My Mom and sister had a fun day Sunday and spoiled Halle Grace.  She has the cutest red Christmas dress you have ever seen with shoes to match.  We're hoping she can wear it for her dedication as well.  But, Nana might have to make her a little sweater...it's short-sleeved.  I talked with Halle's foster Mom on Saturday night and loved every minute of getting to know little Halle better.  What bottles she's taking, yes, she has a binky...she spits up a little after feeding and is sleeping pretty well.  Her foster Mom also offered her pack-n-play before I even asked and a little rocker/bouncer type thing that Halle really likes.  We are so grateful for this foster family...they truly love our little Halle.  Please pray for them...I'm sure this is going to be rough.  Tomorrow is a day of errands...haircut for Aaron, pick up prescriptions, buy shampoo....get my red shoes from my Mom (she borrowed them last week), drop off keys to our car and house to My mother-in-law and sister-in-law, pick up video camera....and the list goes on....finish packing is in there somewhere.  Hopefully, we'll get to sleep a little bit.  Our flight leaves at 5:40am.  You may find me here again tomorrow...hopefully, not!  In closing I have to mention the oh-so-cute blanket that Halle got today from her Nana and Auntie Leah.  I love it...and so will she.  It even has a "tickle" edge!!  Blessings....I'm off to bed now!

Our Daughter!

It is with much joy, and trust me....lots and lots of excitement...and right now tears that I give you all this news. Yesterday at about 11:50am our adoption agency called us with "the call". The call we'd been waiting for...for a very long time. I'm counting all those months, well, actually years of trying to conceive. They all ceased to be when I received this call. We have a baby girl...we have named her Halle Grace. She was born on September 26 in Tyler, TX and from birth has been in a very loving foster home. She weighed 5lbs and was 19" at birth. She's little and oh so cute!!! And...we love her so much already.....in fact, I woke up this morning just needing to get up. Trust me that doesn't happen very often. I know that will be changing in the next few days. I needed to come here to the computer and blog about MY DAUGHTER!! All our fears have been put to rest, we'll except packing and doing all of that....what to bring? For me, for her? For Aaron, just kidding...he usually takes care of all of that for me! So many miracles happened for us yesterday. Halle's birthmother wants to meet us and have an open adoption...we are so excited about that. We want to know this incredible woman who sacrificed so much and gave our daughter life. So...we will most likely leave on November 19. I know...that's soon....but of course, nothing will seem soon enough. My heart just ached this morning as I thought about holding her for the first time. What it will feel like...ahhhhh!! I can't wait. More than that, I can't wait to see Aaron holding Halle...I'm sure buckets will be needed for my tears. It's a good thing God takes care of those for me!! We do have a family we can stay with in Texas....praise the Lord. AND...we are actually really looking forward to being there. The agency doesn't require we stay in Tyler which is good...we have always wanted to go to Austin and we'll stay near there. We may be gone over Thanksgiving, but...we'll be here in spirit. And...I just want to say what's really on my heart. My Dad, passed away two years ago on November 25. He would be so excited for us right now and you know what....I think he can see this from heaven he's looking down and saying "Well done, Ape (that's what he called me)....you made it. You persevered...you didn't give up.....you prayed and had faith.....be blessed! What great way to remember this time. Now will always remember being with Halle on November 25. So...please continue to pray for this new Mommy & Daddy as they transition to life with a little one. We know everything will work out, but...there are so many details to take care of as we travel, leave work...you know...all that stuff! Pray for the birthmother and the foster family...I'm sure it won't be easy for them to see Halle go! Give us strength and grace. OH...one more thing...if you'd like to see a picture of her. Please post your e-mail address in a comment. I can send it to you then. BUT...we can not post it on a blog, facebook or myspace. That's what the agency has asked and we need and want to follow the rules.....

Blessings to all of you from this new family of THREE!!!

Christmas --

Ok...so I'm thinking about Christmas and the fact that it's coming right up....sheesh!  Time flys...but, not while you're waiting for a baby...seriously.  We thought we'd have our baby by now, but...God hasn't found the right one for us yet.  So, we prepare for the holiday season without a little one in the house.  I know we haven't had Thanksgiving yet, and guess what?  I'm really excited about that too!  I love the holidays and spending time with family, eating yummy food and sleeping in...three cheers for all of that!  I have started my Christmas shopping and I'm working on a really fun gift for my Mother-in-Law right now.  She'll love it...it's a joint effort with all her kids and grandkids...super fun.  I have a gift bought for Aaron, my Mom & my sister, Amber.  I'm looking for the perfect Christmas card idea and I'm thinking I'm might just do a picture card this year and not make them.  It's so much work, and really, I'll be spending less money if I do it that way.  But...never fear, I'll include a Christmas letter as well.  So...share with me your thoughts on Christmas and what your family does....I would love to hear!!  

Frogs???

Do you see this?  Something just like this is living RIGHT UNDER our bedroom window!  SO...each night when we go to bed...we hear this big guy calling out to his little lady or maybe it's ladies.  We aren't certain about that!  SHEEESHHH!!!  What we have folks, in Aaron's words, is a bunch of horny toads.  They are so loud on Saturday night they even woke Aaron and I from a sound sleep.  Trust me, that takes a lot. Well...I know that some of you will think we're crazy, but we are still sleeping with our bedroom window cracked.  Really, in all honesty, it's kinda fun to spend the night with the frogs!

Praise you in this storm!

I mentioned that we were starting a new sermon series at church called "Hope and Help for Hard Times".  WOW!  It has blessed me so much already.  This week in particular was pertinent to my life now.  Isn't it the best feeling when you go to church and the message speaks directly to you?  I just love that!!!  Those who know me very well know that I struggle with anxiety and it usually hits me when I'm really stressed out and under pressure.  I don't like this...and unfortunately,  it's an ongoing struggle for me.  God has walked with me through lots of stress and anxiety...HE always wins...HE brings me out of that situation unharmed and so blessed.  When I'm walking through that storm it doesn't feel like that. But...in the end I know God will see me through!  This Sunday we had a video testimony from a woman who was raped and became pregnant at the age of 17.  Sitting next to her in the video was her son who was born from that rape.  She shared how her family and society pressured her to have an abortion, but...she knew that wasn't that answer.  At that time she wasn't a Believer.  Guess who led her to the Lord?  That's right, her son, at the ripe age of 6 led his Mommy (big lump in my throat and tears in my eyes right now) to His Jesus!  WOW!!  Isn't our God good? AND....that son is now an intern at a local church and is going to school to be a Pastor.  God had plans for that life from the beginning....I couldn't help thinking of our baby and how he/she could one day be influential in leading others to Jesus because we will share our Jesus with him/her.  That's what made me cry the most.  God knows who that baby will be....and why it's coming to our family.  As a side note, last Sunday we had a special baptism service...and over 50 people got babptized!!  Praise you Jesus!!  So, this Sunday we sang "Praise you in this Storm" by Casting Crowns and behind the words to the song were pictures of all the people getting baptized....how cool is that?  I cried and could hardly sing the song.  Most of you probably know this song already, but...I wanted to share.  It really ministers to me and touches my heart.....I'm sure we all have had or are currently in a storm.   

Praise you in this Storm

I was sure by now, God, that You would have reached down 

and wiped our tears away, 

stepped in and saved the day. 

But once again, I say amen 

and it's still raining 

as the thunder rolls 

I barely hear You whisper through the rain, 

"I'm with you"

and as Your mercy falls 

I raise my hands and praise 

the God who gives and takes away. 

Chorus: 

And I'll praise you in this storm 

and I will lift my hands 

for You are who You are 

no matter where I am 

and every tear I've cried 

You hold in your hand 

You never left my side 

and though my heart is torn 

I will praise You in this storm 

I remember when I stumbled in the wind 

You heard my cry to You

and raised me up again 

my strength is almost gone how can I carry on 

if I can't find You 

and as the thunder rolls 

I barely hear You whisper through the rain 

"I'm with you"

and as Your mercy falls 

I raise my hands and praise 

the God who gives and takes away 

Chorus 

I lift my eyes onto the hills 

where does my help come from? 

My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth 

I lift my eyes onto the hills 

where does my help come from? 

My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth 

Chorus 

Edited to Add:  Not sure what's going on with my font here...please ignore it...I know I'm trying to!

MckMiracle

Hello friends and family!  I have added another new button on my left sidebar.  I stumbled across the blog of "Mckmama's" through Angie Smith's  Both of these blogs have really blessed me!  I do not know either of these women, but...we are all believers of our God and we believe HE works in miracles.  Mckmama and her family just received one in the birth of their youngest son, Stellan who they were told would not live outside of the womb.  In fact, they were told he was incompatible with life.  What news to receive as a parent.  Enough said from me.  Click the button and be blessed!  I know I am!!!  

Open House Saturday

My friend Stacy does this from time to time and think it's so fun....so, here's what's going on this Saturday.

I'm thankful for....my husband...our small group, they are amazing...my sweet Jesus.  AND the opportunity to spend time with my nieces and nephews and their parent's last night at the Harvest Carnival.  

I'm listening to...a random mixed MP3 disc in our living room...in the background I hear what sounds like a million little birdies.  I think they've found the bird feeder we put out this morning.  HOORAAAYYY!!!

In the oven...Oatmeal Scotchies.  Requested by my dear husband.  I'm bringing some to the boys working on Dan & Lisa's new house.

What's for dinner tonight....Turkey meatloaf, garlic mashed potatoes & green salad.  Good comfort food for this first day of November. 

What I'm looking forward to...church tomorrow, we begin a new sermon series "Hope and Help for Hard times - Finding peace and joy in your pains, problems and pressures" I know I can always use a good reminder for this!  AND...most of all lots of time with Aaron tomorrow.  A lazy Sunday is what we are both craving!!!

What's happening this week....Leah's "At Home America" party, Bunco, Small Group & a shower for my sweet friend Sarah, her husband Todd & their two kiddos, Joshua & Katherine. 

I'm feeling a little under the weather....I think I need to take some Airborne...I certainly don't want the nasty cold that is going around.  I'm so glad to be spending a WHOLE Saturday at home....this is the life!!!! 

James 1:27

We just received an e-mail from Dave & Carrie who head up our HIS Kids Our Homes group at church.  Dave shared an e-newsletter he had received from Steven Curtis Chapman's ministry "Shaohannah's Hope".  Please watch this video and be blessed.....

Adoption Update --

We received this e-mail today from our adoption agency!  Just a quick update for you all.  AND...I just want to say thank you to all of our friends and family.  We love that you are as excited as we are about all of this.  I love that last night the first thing my brother-in-law Guy asked me was how our adoption stuff was going and if we had heard anything!  Thanks Guy!!  We appreciate you!  So...here's the e-mail...I had sent Margaret an e-mail just asking for an update!!  

Good morning!

It is fine to check in and you aren't bugging me. I know waiting is hard. 

Well, to bring you up to date, we have had a couple girls in the program who
looked at your information, but in the long run, they dropped out choosing
to parent. There are others in the program, of course, but they are not at a
point to select the adoptive family yet. We are getting more girls sending
back their information to begin working with us so it will happen for you.

Again, you are not bugging me. I appreciate you checking in, because I get
so busy with all the paper stuff in this work getting other families
approved, I let time get by and don't check in with all of you as I should.
Thanks for keeping me on my toes!!!!

Have a great weekend and you continue in our prayers for the Lord's plan!

New Posts....

Four new posts....ENJOY!  You may need to scroll down I added them by date!!

On my way to work....

I was driving my usual route to work one day this week...nope, I didn't get pulled over.  But, I did see this sign on a church billboard:

NOW OPEN EASTER THROUGH CHRISTMAS!

I chuckled but, then thought...how true this is.  We need to get others to church on more than just Easter and Christmas....

Happy Birthday!!!

Here are some of favorite pictures of Jess through the years....Enjoy!!!

So tomorrow is one of my best girls birthdays...yep, Jessica Belle is turning FOUR!!  I can hardly believe it....I remember the day Dena called to tell me she was pregnant...we were so excited and praying it would be a girl!!  Josh and Dena chose not to find out until little Jess was born!  We were even more excited then!  Can I just tell you about this girl?  She is a princess through and through...hence the picture of her painting her room while wearing a hot pink dress, at least I think it's a dress!  That is so typical for her.  She detests wearing pants, even while camping.  In fact, let me just relay a story about our camping trip to you.  Jess came out of the tent after changing her own clothes I was the first one to see her.  She was wearing a halter top and high heeled princess sandals...that's it!  Mind you, we were in Florence, OR and it was a little chilly at the campsite.  I asked her to put something else on....ah, pants maybe???  "No April, I want to look pretty"....Jess, you can wear pants and still look pretty.....oh gosh, I was thinking...where is this going??  I did convince her that it was a good thing and a pretty thing to wear pants...and wearing a long-sleeved shirt under your halter wasn't too bad!  This is the same girl that is curious about all things...I took her to the bathroom on the same camping trip....I needed to go as well and she was with me in the stall.  I went to the bathroom and was pulling up my pants...she says "Do you have Elmo on your panties?"...I'm thinking oh my word, what now....I look at my panties which have large orange flowers on them....AHA!  Those flowers were Elmo to her....but, of course, her Princess panties were better!!!  She is tender hearted and so full of life...and right now she is so excited that she is going to be a big sister yet again!!  We're hoping for a little sister for you Jess!  Aaron and I love you and we are so proud to be your Godparents!!  We pray Jesus blesses you so much this coming year....we know He loves you and you long to know more about Him.  We hope you have a super day with your cousins and friends at your Polka-Dot party!!  Send us some pictures..........

On friday

Today is friday.  Can I just say I am so thankful that God gave us weekends.  I'm feeling sooooooooo  busy and worn out!  I really need this weekend to recharge.  I would also like to speak about my lack of posts.  Folks, the last sentence says it all.  I sat down last night to do some posting and I don't think the garlic french fries I had from my favorite store "Trader Joes" agreed with me.  So...no post!  It's was ginger peach tea and the couch for me!!  This post is kinda random....I'm hoping to get some posting in this weekend.  Now, I know it says I have only NINE followers...come on, where's the love??  I think I honestly have more than that!!  AND...lastly, if you remember would you pray for our adoption.  I'm becoming weary.....I know it's only been 7 weeks since we've been approved, but...the agency made it seem like it would be a lot faster than this.  Please pray we will be able to welcome our baby into our family by the end of the year!!!

Honesty...still the best policy!

Well...today is Monday.  Monday is NOT my favorite day of the week.  But...this Monday was going to be ok...I went shopping yesterday with my Mom and got some cute stuff...I was excited to wear a cute new dress to work today with my fun red shoes.  So...I set off...I was late only about 5 minutes, but...still late.  I live way out in the boonies so I take a back route to Bellingham which usually gets me there faster.  Well....I was taking my usual route and see another vehicle coming at me...flashing his lights.  We all know what that means...a member of law enforcement is up ahead just waiting for an unsuspecting person who is late to work on Monday in her new cute black dress with her fun red shoes!  YEP....I slowed down, but...not soon enough.  Just as I thought I had made it around the corner his lights turned on.  I pulled over and grabbed my EXPIRED insurance card.  Only three days mind you...I had just looked at those cards last night and told Aaron we needed to put them in the vehicles...sheesh!  Our conversation went like this.  Officer: Good morning...are you late for work?  Me: Yes, now I'll be even later.  Officer:  Not necessarily.  Could I see your license and proof of insurance.  Me:  My insurance card is expired...I reminded my husband last night we needed to put these in our cars.  Officer:  It's only three days.  You were speeding...  Me:  I know  Officer:  You were going 15 miles over the speed limit.  That's above my thresh hold for giving a ticket.  But today is your day.  Because you were so honest.  I'm not writing you a ticket!  Slow down and have a good day!  Me:  Thank you so much!  I really appreciate this...and I will slow down!   Praise you Jesus for your favor....I really did not need a ticket today....and trust me, I have slowed down.  I will be getting up earlier so I don't have to speed.........good grief!!!  OH...and the insurance card is in my purse and will be in my car tomorrow morning.

Oatmeal Carmelitas

Tonight was small group for us and it was my turn to bring snacks....I brought these yummy treats!  They are always a hit and not too hard to make.  Beware....they are DEFINITELY not fat free!  Let's just say Paula Deen would be proud.  The next time you have to bring goodies somewhere...try Oatmeal Carmelitas!!

Base:

2 cups flour

2 cups quick-cooking oats

1 1/2 cup brown sugar

1 1/4 cups butter, softened

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

Filling:

1 jar (12.25oz) Smucker's Caramel Ice Cream Topping (1 cup)

3 tbsp flour

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

1.Heat oven to 350 degrees.  Grease 9x13 inch pan.  In large bowl, beat base ingredients with electric mixer on low speed until crumbly.  Reserve half of crumb mixture (about 3 cups) for topping.  Press remaining mixture into bottom of pan.  

2.  Bake 10 minutes.  Meanwhile, in small bowl, stir together carmel topping and 3 tbsp. flour

3.  Sprinkle chocolate chips over partially baked base.  Drizzle evenly with caramel mixture, sprinkle with reserved crumb mixture.

4.  Bake 18 to 22 minutes longer or until golden brown.  Cool completely in pan on cooling rack, about 1 hour.  Refrigerate 1 to 2 hours or until filling is set.  

Followers???

Hey all!  If you follow my blog and would like to be added to my list of followers...clink the "follow this blog" in my left side bar...the rest is pretty self explanatory.  I'd love to see who reads this and your picture!!!

Fireproof

You may have noticed the banner to the left promoting the movie "Fireproof".  I wholly support this movie and all it stands for.  Aaron and I went on a date today after church and saw this.  I am so very glad we did!!  Every married couple, single individual who plans on getting married and especially those couples who are struggling in their marriage should see this.  It makes you laugh...cry A LOT, and you walk away so blessed by God's amazing love and grace.  We as believers should be praying that this movie blesses and encourages those who need it most.  I have a list of those I know who I'm praying see it.....please join with me in praying for those you know who are struggling in their marriage.  Pray they will be nudged by the Holy Spirit to see this fine film and beautiful example of how God wants our marriages to be!  Afterward, Aaron and I talked about how the movie ties right in with the sermon series at our church.  God wants us to treat others as we want to be treated.  I don't want to give it away....so go see it!!!!  And...Kirk Cameron is even in it!!!  

Shara's Wedding

Amber, Mom & I -- "The Girls"

Flower arrangement at the reception

Truffles from "Lynden Chocolates".  These were the favors.

Here's my Mom and her bestest friend Marlene

On October 4 Marlene's oldest daughter, Shara was married to Billy.  This family has been long time family friends of ours.  My Mom was in their wedding and I along with my best friend, Jessica, babysat for all three of Don & Marlene's girls.  Mom, Amber and I were honored to attend.  AND...Mom and I helped out Marlene by setting out the truffles on each plate before the wedding...along with some yummy goodies.  My favorite...AnnaMae's oh so delicious almond tarts.  The floral arrangements at the wedding AND reception were AMAZING!!  And oh so fallish!  LOVE THAT!  We had a fabulous meal catered by Rose and her Girls from the Fairway Cafe....YUM-O!!  We all had a great time and we're so glad we were able to be a part of this!!!

What I loved....

About this past Sunday...Pastor Kim is preaching this AMAZING series called "The Golden Key..Unlocking Winning Relationships".  It has been so powerful already.  Let me just give you a few points that really spoke to me.  This for one....it rings true for so many people in my life.  It's the Pain Principle and it says: Hurting people hurt people and are easily hurt.  WOW!!  I was just really challenged to remember this.  People have been hurt and that is why many times they react the way they do.  We need to remember to see them with our Father's eyes.  Luke 23:34  Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing".  This is something else that also made me think hard about myself...we need to be quick to listen and to understand, NOT to express our point of view.  GUILTY!!  I am so guilty of this....I could blame it on my personality, but...really, I need to be more careful of what I say.  I will try and work on this.  James 1:19-20 My dear brothers, take note of this:  Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.  For man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.  These principles are taken from this book.  We are reading it right now for small group and we are really enjoying it.  But...my most favorite part about Sunday was this video...get out your kleenex...trust me...you'll need them!!

Bran Muffins

Some things you remember from childhood, right?  Growing up I always remembered these muffins.  My Mom made them often and I really liked them.  In fact, I remember eating bran muffins elsewhere and not liking them at all.  The same is true for my husband.  After I made these I asked him if he like bran muffins...."they're ok"...hmmmmm....that was his answer.  Pretty much...that means he doesn't like them.  I was really surprised after he ate a bite of mine and later ate a whole muffin!!  The really cool thing about this recipe is that you leave the batter in the fridge and scoop it out when you want to use it.  Don't stir it...those were the instructions I received from my Mom.  She made the muffin batter for me after I asked about this recipe.  Don't I have the best Mom??

1 1/2 cup sugar, blend and add 1/2 cup canola oil & 2 eggs.  Beat all together until smooth...

2 cups all Bran

1 cup Bran buds

Over this pour 1 cup boiling water...Let stand until cool (bran & water)

Add 2 cups buttermilk to bran mixture after it is cool and mix well.  Then add to sugar and egg mixture and mix well.

2 1/2 cups flour

2 1/2 tsp baking soda

3/4 tsp salt

1/2 tsp baking powder

Add dry ingredients to the bran mixture and combine.

Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes

Please note:  I left this in original format...My Grandma Rose had written it this way on a recipe card for my Mom...

Hooray for FALL!!!

Ok, some of you may think I'm crazy, but...I do love FALL!!!  That being said I had to change by background!  AND...I found an even better site for free backgrounds...I LOVE this gals designs...she is RIGHT up my alley!  The format is wider...I think I can make my pictures bigger!!  So...visit her site.  I will most definitely be going back there...in fact, I have my next background already picked out!  Now I'll leave you with some of my favorite things about fall, not in any particular order.

the leaves changing color...

cool crisp mornings with dew on the grass....

pumpkin spiced lattes from Starbucks...

let's hear it for sweatshirts and long pants...

volleyball season...

fall line-up...

hot apple cider....with caramel...

pumpkins...

all things gloriously fall at Fairway Country Furnishings...

snuggling on the couch....

reading a good book with a cup a tea while it rains outside....

Prayers Answered

Remember this post?  Well I am so excited to share with you all!  James had his appointment today at Children's Hospital....our God worked a miracle!  James will not have to have surgery!!!  We praise you Jesus for your healing touch!! Thank you all so much for praying for this little guy....I know Tobey, Kelly & even Ella appreciated it so much!!!  

Nursery Update

So, just a few picture of the nursery. Here is the crib with the finished quilt on it....the so cute bumper pad and sheet. Can you even believe I got that bumper pad from Pottery Barn...for $19.99!! It was on clearance...and I was so excited. Next is the drawer of all the cute little, tiny socks and onesies...how fun! And then we have the changing table with it's cover and the baskets on the bottom...I looked long and hard for those. Thanks Fairway Country Furnishings for having them...and since I work there I got a very good deal!! Aaron put a shelf up right above the changing table so I can put diapers, wipes and a lamp up there! We're ready....we just need you baby!! We're praying for you and your birthmother......loving you both!! xoxoxoxoxo

Yogurt Body Butter

Ok, so I had to share with you this AMAZING new product I just got from Garden Botanika. Did you know you could still get there products online? I absolutely love their stuff and still wish the store was here, but...the internet works good for me too. The Garden Botanika "truffle" lipstick is still the only one I use, and I've used it for probably more than 10 years! It's the only brown lipstick I can find that doesn't turn pink. I love it. They also have a great deal for Garden Club Members. You pay $15 for a yearly membership and get 15% off of every order every day and lots of other cool deals. BUT...the biggest reason for this post is the their new Custom Fragrance Yogurt Body Butter!! IT ROCKS!! I tell ya, when I saw this I jumped at the deal and got my favorite scent: COCONUT!! It's light and whipped...kinda like yogurt, but...smells so great! It's keeping my dry skin hydrated....try it...you'll like it too!

New favorites for the baby

Ok...so these are three of my new favorite things we have been given for the baby!  My Mom gave us that so very cute polka-dot blanket!!  It is so very soft and cuddly, in fact, I told Aaron I was going to use it until the baby comes.  Just kidding!  But seriously, isn't it the best??  Thanks Mom...see, you do know what I like!  Then my friend Amy S. from work got the baby these cuddly, so very soft little guys while she was on vacation!  I was also tempted to take them to bed with me, but...don't worry I didn't!  Thanks so very much Amy...I truly do appreciate your thoughtfulness....I'm so excited for the baby to see these two!!

Applesauce Making

The apples before...don't they look yummy???

Here's Aaron hard at work.  It should be said that he peels A LOT faster than I do!!

All peeled, cored, quartered and in the pot

Look at this garbage bowl!!

42 cups of yummy applesauce goodness!!  Thank goodness Tupperware makes this bowl!

The containers washed, ready and waiting

All the containers filled and ready for the freezer

Wow!!  Aaron and I made applesauce for the first time this year.  My Mom was supposed to help, but...she didn't feel very good and we didn't need to catch her bug.  So....we ate a quick dinner and began this process!!  Aaron helped me peel all the apples...that was the hardest part.  I wish we would have used Mom's apple peeler/corer/slicer...next time we definitely will.  We used Gravenstein apples and this applesauce turned out so yummy!!!  It wasn't very hard at all.  You just have to peel and of course core the apples...quarter them up and put them in a big pot on the stove.  Don't turn the heat up too high...the sugar content in the apples will cause them to burn if you try to cook them too quickly.  Take them out of the pot to cool....add sugar/splenda to taste and cinnamon if you desire...it tastes the best with it!  We also made ours kinda chunky...we both like the chunks of apple in it.  Once it's cooled and you get it into containers just pop it in the freezer and take it out as you need it....ENJOY!  I know we are!!!

Buttermilk Waffles with Jam

This is what we had for breakfast today!!  YUM-O!!! We try to limit our sugar and white flour intake here at our house.  Especially, since I have insulin resistance and a low-carb diet just works better for both of us.  This recipe is taken from the South Beach Diet Quick and Easy Cookbook....it has 200 recipes that are ready in 30 minutes or less.  We have found quite a few tasty meals in here.  I highly recommend this book!  That being said this recipe calls for a granular sugar substitute...we use Splenda.  But...if you'd rather I'm sure you could use sugar.  You may just need to experiment with the amount you use.  OK...on with the recipe!!

1 cup whole-wheat flour (for a lighter waffle use whole wheat pastry flour)

1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats

1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon baking powder

3 tablespoons granular sugar substitute

3 tablespoons canola oil

1 1/4 cups 1% or fat-free buttermilk

1/2 cup water

1 large egg

3/4 cup jam, any flavor or syrup...your choice

Combine flour, oats, baking powder, salt & sugar substitute in a medium bowl.  Whisk together oil, buttermilk, water and egg in a separate bowl.  Pour the buttermilk mixture into the flour mixture and stir until combined.  

Heat waffle iron; coat lightly with cooking spray.  Add a generous 1/2 cup batter per waffle and cooked until browned and crisp, about 5 minutes.  Dollop with jam and serve...or use your favorite syrup.

Please note:  Once prepared, these can be wrapped individually and frozen for up to 3 weeks.  Reheat in the toaster, using low heat, until warmed through.

Dear Sweet Dena

Remember this post?? In that post I said I would sometime in the near future dedicate a post solely to my dear friend Dena.  Here is the post.  This has been rumbling around in my head for sometime now.  Probably close to a month.  I just wanted to make it fitting to her and I wanted everyone who read it to, at the most,  get just a glimpse into Dena's life.  I met Dena when Aaron and I were dating...to say I loved her immediately would be true.  My husband was friend's with her husband, Josh, who just so happened to graduate from Lynden High School with me.  Imagine his shock when he learned Aaron was dating ME!  I remember the first time we met like it was yesterday.  Dinner at Lucci's...with Josh, Dena, Tyler and Bob.  Tyler immediately took a liking to me and sat near me almost the whole dinner.  Dena was easy to talk to and so like me.  We both liked to bake and cook....she is crafty and witty!  And a super Mommy.  Dena is one of those people you just want to hug...and one you can talk with for HOURS...trust me...we have spent many a night chatting while my husband has gone to bed, her kids are asleep and Josh is working late.  You can trade recipes with her and talk about the message at church on Sunday.  We have seen each other in good times and bad.  I believe God brought Dena into my life for such a time as this.  She is a Mommy to FOUR amazing kiddos: Tyler, Julia, Jessica & Isaac.  I hesitated a bit when typing four.  But...quickly got past that.  You see, when Dena was a single Mom of Tyler she became pregnant with Julia.  She chose to give Julia a life that she never would have had...she chose adoption!  Perhaps this is yet another reason why I so love my friend Dena.  From the beginning Dena has been so open about Julia and her adoption and with that her testimony...she has an amazing one by they way!  God has used her immeasurably.  Through the almost five years that Aaron and I have been married we have been through some rough times.  Dena & Josh have been there for us!  Through three miscarriages (one of which happened while staying at their house), infertility and the death of my Dad.  They drove 3 1/2 hours one way to attend my Dad's Memorial Service...that is true friendship.  I always know that Dena is praying for us....just because. We love her and her family so much...and we are Godparent's for Miss Jessica Belle.  Because of all of this I asked Dena to help with something near and dear to me.  When we go to pick up our baby we may need to stay for longer than a week.  Now, Aaron can only stay for a week.  So...after praying about this and talking with Aaron I asked Dena if she would come and meet me there.  She said yes!!  What an AMAZING experience we are going to have!!  I can't wait to spend part of that time with my dear friend!  Dena...I thank God for you and your friendship!  I hope you realize how much you mean to me!! 

Loving you.....

April 

Prayers for James

Please join with me in praying for Baby James and his family...his Dad-Tobey, Mom-Kelly & Big Sister-Ella.  James has a condition where the front plates in his skull are fusing too quickly.  He has an appointment next Monday at Children's Hospital and may need surgery.  No one wants to have to hear the news that their son or daughter needs surgery.  Tobey and Kelly & their two kiddos are good friends of ours and we are praying that our God who works in miracles would touch Baby James right now.  We pray His healing touch on James' skull...we know that this little guy was born for a reason...he is going to do GREAT things for our Lord and Savior.  Again, just pray like you know how.........our God will do the rest!!! 

Full of Gratitude

A huge, big, gigantic thank you to our family for purchasing this Chicco Trevi Stroller/Car Seat combo for us!  We absolutely love it...and CAN NOT wait to use it for real!  It folds up so easy and the car seat clips into the stroller like a breeze.  We feel so blessed...and now we can cross yet another thing off the "getting ready for baby" list!  AND...as you can see from the bottom photo we also got a backseat for the BRONCO!!  HOORAAAYY!!!  Now, the baby can ride in that as well!  I came home from work one Saturday and Aaron had the Cabbage Patch Doll all snugly buckled up in the carseat...he's practicing!  And then the next Saturday she was hanging out in the Bronco trying out the new backseat!  I love that my husband is getting excited.  Now...we just need the baby!!!

Charlie Brown Pumpkin Bread

YUM-O!! This is my first attempt at Pumpkin Bread...my Mom's recipe!!  I always think my Mom's pumpkin bread is so yummy and I just love to eat it!!  So, after eating a whole mini loaf myself (Aaron doesn't like it, can you believe it???) I decided to get the recipe and attempt it myself.  Here are the results!!  And let me tell you...it got rave reviews!  I took the large loaf to work so I wouldn't eat it all and now everyone wants the recipe!  I'll save you all the time and give it to you now.  Just an added side note:  This recipe is an excerpt from a local newspaper...published in 1973!  When I asked my Mom for the recipe she handed me the whole yellowed excerpt...pretty cool!

Charlie Brown Pumpkin Bread

Sift together three and one-third to three and one-half cups flour, two teaspoons baking soda, one and one-half teaspoons salt, one teaspoon nutmeg, one to one and one-half teaspoons cinnamon, one-half teaspoon ginger, one-half teaspoon all spice, two teaspoons cloves.  Mix well with three cups sugar.  

Add one cup oil (vegetable or canola), four eggs, two-thirds cup water, one 15 oz. can of pumpkin.  Mix until smooth.  Pour into greased and floured loaf pans.  Bake at 350 degrees for one hour

What a fun day!

Today my Mom, my sister Amber and I went to visit my friend Jess and her kiddos: Jake, Savannah and new twins Honor and Justice.  We brought yummy Mac&Cheese for dinner along with a green salad and of course BREAD!  I also made Jess' favorites:  Snickerdoodles!!  It was so fun to hang out with them and lend Jess some hands!  These boys are so good and Jake and Savannah take their new job as Big Brother and Sister very seriously!  Jake even changed a few poopy diapers while we were there.  So....here is our day in picture review:

Honor chillin' on the couch...I love his mouth in that "O"!

Justice hangin' out in the bouncy seat!

Amber with both the boys

Mom, Jake & Savannah played a game of scrabble....not sure where Savannah is!

Big Bro Jake & little Bro Honor

Savannah had to show me this rope swing...lots of fun for them!!

Mom and Sis making the salad for dinner

Adoption Update --

Today the day we have been waiting for came!!!  We were officially "approved".  Our agency has received all of the necessary reports and information.  Our adoptive study has been completed and final approval has been given of our family for adoption through Christian Homes!!!  Praise you Jesus!!  We serve a MIGHTY God!!  Some things to pray for: The birthmother...wherever she may be just pray that God blesses her.  What an incredible sacrifice she is making!  I can not wait to meet her and thank her, hopefully, in person.  Pray that God puts it on her heart to choose us.  Pray for our baby, that it is most importantly, HEALTHY!  We know that is the baby that God has chose for us.  He knew even before we began this journey who our baby would be.  Only He knows if it's a boy or girl....wow, I wish I knew!  And only He knows what he/she will look like.  Pray for the sweet people at Christian Homes they have been such an easy group to work with.  Specifically, Margaret & Cindy...they have been instrumental in this adoption and so helpful to us.  We are a little concerned with lodging while we are in Texas.....pray our God provides for us in that aspect.  If we have to stay for anymore than a week a hotel is going to get VERY spendy...well...even a week will be spendy.  We have had offers from three families to stay with them.  But...Texas is a BIG state and who knows where we will be.  Pray that our baby is born near one of those homes....that would be a miracle!  We know God works in miracles...so, let's see one!!  Lastly, pray for us!  This is a HUGE, gigantic leap of faith for us.  We have received funds for a portion of our fees, but...not all.  We know our God knows our needs.  We're getting anxious, excited and just so happy!  We can't wait to meet the newest member of our family!!!   

Happy Birthday!!!

August 27 is our nephew Kai's birthday.  So, we all got together on Labor day & celebrated like only a newly three year old would...at the city park.  It was actually so nice for all the kids.  But...it was kinda chilly....the wind was whipping around.  Kai is one of the most energetic, enthusiastic little boys I know.  He uses so much expression while talking...I just love it!  You can't help but laugh when he get's so excited...it's contagious.  He loves his Papa and John Deere Tractors...in fact, when he was smaller we would hold up a green crayon and ask him what color it was...he would quickly respond, "John Deere Green"!!  His blue eyes shine with excitement when his Papa walks into the room and we're all sure to get HUGE hugs when coming and going from Kai!  Uncle Aaron and Auntie April are so glad Jesus made you Kai!  You fill our lives with added fun and laughter!  We pray Jesus blesses you as you continue to grow in Him!  Happy Birthday Kai Vincent-Rhoads....We love YOU!!!  

Here Kai is with his so cool cake! His Mom rocks!  I don't think I could do this!!

YES!!!  Legos from Grandma & Grandpa!!!  He's following in Bryce's footsteps...

A close-up of this AMAZING cake!!!