It's been a while......

So it's been quite some time since I have posted to the blog here.  Sorry I guess it's best blamed on life, and the speed at which it all seems to go.  That and I just haven't thought about doing it.  Life is good.  Going way to fast, and my little ones just keep getting bigger, but it's good.  After having a very dry summer as you all know, now fall seems to be starting off quite wet.  Not a huge deal yet,  but really hope we can fit harvest in between the rain drops at some point.  I'm thankful that we are getting some rain now, as the water tables need it desperately, but this cold that has also come with the start of fall is a little extreme.  That seems to be the theme to the weather these days.  Not a lot of gradualness, just one extreme to another.

I've decide to start a new thing in the house.  We'll see how long the girls enjoy it.  I'm going to try and turn Wednesdays into no disney (aka no cartoons) mornings.  So far they seem to be playing nicely together and getting along well.  I am however in the room though.  I'm sure if I would step out into the kitchen and work on dinner, they would start arguing over a toy or something.  They always want the toy the other one has.  I'm also attempting to finish laundry, and figure the rest of the meals out for the week.  I LOVE cooking, but hate coming up with things to make.  I need to try to start menu planning and maybe that would help with the grocery buying as well.  It just always seems that when I try to get in the habit of doing menus for the week something always comes up and we can never keep the schedule.  Hopefully this will straighten out some once we finally sell this place and get the new house.  Oh yeah, we're still trying to sell the house.  It is listed now through Doug Walton Realty, so if you know anyone needing a nice place with 6.6 acres send them our way.  We'd love to help someone get into their house, and be able to get ours started as well.  I hope all is well for everyone and maybe I'll get back into this blogging thing since the weather is cooler and wetter and we'll probably be spending more time inside now.......

Clothing a three-year old......

I love my little girls to bits!  They never cease to amaze me with all the things they explore and learn each day.  I have two little girls that aren't afraid of anything, and very independent.  I LOVE this!  There are trying times and will be many more to come I am sure.  We will argue and butt heads many times in the future, but I wouldn't change them being the confident, independent, secure little girls that they are becoming for anything.   That being said, one particular battle we (I) have daily is with Mallory and keeping clothes on her.  I know that all little kids go through naked phases, but this kid seems to enjoy it way more than I ever expected a kid to enjoy it.  Now that she is potty trained she tends to leave her panties off after going potty.  Not a big deal to me, I guess it makes it easier the next time she needs to potty, but since she learned how to take off her shirt too, it's almost impossible to keep this child clothed!!!!  She is such a free spirit I think we are in trouble :)  LOVE them to bits and more!

Mother Nature

Wow!  What a weekend.  We have had very high temperatures this past week, and with that as you know come storms.  And boy did we have a storm!  Friday we saw a storm come through that was amazing.  Truly we are blessed as we did not have any real damage, and only lost our power for three hours.  Many around the state will be without power for most of the week.  After hurricane force winds, and sideways rain for roughly 45 minutes the girls and I came up from the basement to find that really we only lost a few branches, and our sweet corn was flat.  I can say in the last two days the corn has pretty much stood back up, and the sticks are picked up for the most part.  After Fridays storm though the heat has continued.  We decided to go to the lake to swim last evening around 5:00, boy was that a mistake.  We got to the lake and saw a front moving in, it was spinning and ended up pouring rain down on us.  We were lucky that we got under it, and through it before any tornadoes touched down.  We later found out Marblehead (which we were about three miles from) was under a warning.  We saw some more damage as places got high winds again, but still not to the degree of damage the girls and I found after the storm on Friday.  We were lucky!  As we were driving home Derek and I were discussing just how powerful Mother Nature is and how small we all are.  Also how much Karma can get people.  There are so many people in the world that get upset because it may rain on a day that they didn't want it too, or just rain in general.  For those people I say, "Embrace the rain for it is what creates crops, and food for everyone.  Whether it's for plants, or animals we all need the rain, and can't survive without it."  I know it is hard to be without power, but remember that the men working out in the sweltering heat having to clear trees, and restore the power for you are really risking a lot so that you can live comfortably.  So instead of getting angry with them why not call and thank them for what they do.  I'm sure everyone knows someone with power that would be willing to help out if they need it.  We have been drastically dry for the past six weeks, and everyone will feel that over the next year or so if farmers can't get a good crop.  Also the heat is going to continue for a week or so, more storms could be on the way.....But that still just proves my point, at the end of the day we are nothing compared to what Mother Nature can do.  She can and will do as she pleases, we just need to do all we can to stay safe when she brings all her fury front and center.  Have some respect for the powers out there that are greater than any of us!   It's truly amazing!!!!!

Books that are addicting.......

I absolutely love to read.  I always have and hopefully will pass this down to my girls.  I can honestly say that it has been a while since I have had the chance to read much more than an article, or small magazine.  The majority of my reading these days belongs to children's books, while I do not mind this at all there are times you just want a good read.  So I have been known to read a few romance novels in my day and I can say that is usually my preference.  I don't usually get into anything that is full of gore, or out of the ordinary, and usually don't get into a series.  However, on the suggestion of a friend I started to read "The Hunger Games."  Thanks!!!  It is not only one of the best series of books I have read, I find that I can't put it down.  I'm sure many of you have read these books and enjoy them as well.  It seems that a large portion of the population has.  They are very addicting in my opinion, and very well written.  A very easy read for anyone looking for a good book.  I actually read the first in about 4 days.  The second came last week one day, and I put off starting it thinking it couldn't be as good as the first.  I was wrong.  It was just as good, and I finished it in two days.  Thank goodness my girls take long naps, and my hubby has fallen asleep a little earlier on the couch, thus allowing me the time to read.  Now I can't wait for the final one to get here, and dive right in.  I guess if the conditions are right I may finish it in one day...lol  Highly doubtful, but who knows.  So to anyone reading another good series let me know.  When I'm done with this one I may be looking for another to start.  I've missed reading and am glad to be at it again.  Give it a try, it's relaxing, stimulating, and fun if given the chance.

Gardening......my favorite hobby

Yesterday was a huge day for my back and legs.  The girls and I packed stuff up and headed to my parents house to help plant their garden.  This garden is not your average back yard, half dozen plants type of garden.  We work this garden up with our tractor and disk, and plow that we use out in the fields.  So when I say that my back was sore when we finished it's because it took a brutal 6 hour beating in the sun and dirt.  My girls were troopers though.  Jaclyn played with her toys, and in the dirt.  Mallory helped plant things as we got rows dug up and holes dug for plants.  By the time the day was over we had in potatoes, corn, peas, green beans, lima beans, onions, radishes, cabbage, eggplant, tomatoes, kolorhabi, peppers, zucchini, and squash.  Still have melons to plant, but when my kids were so tired and dirty that they practically fell asleep outside I decided it was time for baths and to head home.  Now today we are trying to catch up on a little rest, but getting ready to head out to plant our own garden once the girls wake up from naps, and the sun isn't quite so hot today.  I love planting things and reaping the benefits of what comes from the hard work and time put into the garden.  There are so many things you can do with what you will harvest.  It is amazing what God creates and what you can get from such small plants and seeds.  That is why Derek and I both love farming as well, as many farmers do.  The ability for so much to come from so little, God truly is amazing and so powerful.  It makes you appreciate things so much and respect those that do all this for a living.  If you have the ability to plant a garden I highly recommend trying it.  The results are mind-blowing and amazing.  It gives you a feeling like no other. 

It's Raining!!!!!!!

It's raining, and I am extremely happy about this.  We have been working ground and getting fields planted and were ready for for moisture.  All the corn is in and sprayed, so some rain will help greatly especially with the heat we are supposed to be getting the rest of the week.  Mallory and I spent 5 hours in the tractor today and had a good time working ground.  She rode very well and enjoyed singing in the tractor with the radio and mommy.  And just like her mommy used to when she was little she fell asleep while riding in the field.  There is just something about a tractor that can put you to sleep, especially when you're little, lol.  She is getting so big so fast.  On Sunday our little girl will be 3 years old already.  The time goes so fast.  We're having so much fun watching her grow up and turn into such a nice little girl.  We look forward to the future with both of our girls and our family.  Enjoy the evening rain.

Birthday Girl!!!!

Today is my baby Jaclyn's 1st birthday!  Where has the year gone.  A lot has happened since we were blessed with this pretty little girl.  There are times when I think that she is actually older than just one year, and wonder what life was like without her, but then there are times that I can remember having her, and holding her as just a week old.  It's amazing how our minds work and what we remember and hold dear.  I do know this, my two little girls are the best thing that has happened to my husband, and my life.  We love you both very much.  Happy Birthday Jaclyn!!!!!

Spoiled

This week I am thinking about how spoiled we all have become with the warm weather we received in March.  While I knew it was too good to be true, and way too early for it to be here, there is always the hope that it may just stick around.  But that isn't the case and we are looking at frost and freeze warnings, and even the threat of possible snow next week sometime supposedly.  At least it won't last long at this point and summer is just around the corner for us. 
On another note, it's amazing how things have changed since we were kids.  I'm referring to the amount of toys and just junk that you acquire when you have kids.  When did society become so materialistic, and worry about who buys the biggest, or spends the most on kids.  Why do people think that makes them the "favorite?"  I ask these questions because both of my girls birthdays are coming up in the next couple of weeks, and everyone asks what they need/want, and I can honestly say that they don't "need" anything.  Money to put away for college, but past that, really there isn't a lot.  Our oldest could use a few new clothing pieces, because as they get older people stop giving you clothes (like they do when they are first born), so she can use that,  but as far as toys go, they are both good.  I find this is a struggle as a parent, to raise my kids understanding what it is like to appreciate little, and know that things are given out of love, and that there aren't favorites in life.  I don't believe in "buying" love, or favoritism.  My kids will think you are their favorite if you spend time with them, and love them.  Read to them, play with them, sing with them, etc......  That is what matters in life, and what makes a child grow up understanding that the world doesn't "owe" them anything.  Hopefully we'll succeed at getting these values and morals across to them.  Time will tell.  In the meantime......anyone want to come clean up the mess of toys and things in my toyroom?????   LOL 

Teething

Teething has got to be one of the worst stages for a baby to go through.  Unfortunately we were spoiled with Mallory and her teeth came in effortlessly and without much fussing.  Jaclyn is not the case.  I feel so bad for my baby when she has trouble sleeping because those darn teeth are moving and pushing to come through.  Right now she is trying to cut her upper centers and they are coming at the same time (something I am thankful for), but this is causing some extra pain and discomfort for her and there isn't a whole lot I can do.  She isn't really into chewing on things other than her fingers, so I can't even give her a teething ring that has been chilled to help.  She had a mild fever yesterday, and even though I know it is due to teeth I can just tell she is out of sorts and not feeling like herself.  So, darn teeth please come in so my baby feels better and we can get back on sleep schedule.  I do love it though when babies are first getting teeth and they smile.  It is some of the cutest smiles you'll find on a baby I think!!!

It was officially spring yesterday.  We have been feeling spring for a couple of weeks now.  That is okay I'll take the lovely weather.  I love being able to take the girls outside to play and run around.  They love playing outside so much.  We have already gotten the yard mowed and the garden cleaned out and ready for tilling today.  Now it's inside for naps then back outside to keep getting things ready for spring and summer.  I am so grateful for this outstanding weather and being able to open all the windows to let in the fresh air.  There isn't much better than waking up in the morning and being able to open them all because it is already in the 60's.  It's great sleeping weather too.  We had both the windows open in the bedroom last night and had a nice cool breeze blowing in.  Being a stay at home mom has many advantages and I keep finding them the longer I am home with my babies.  My newest discovery is actually having the desire and ambition to pick some things up that needed moved outside and not just bypassing them for another day.  Love my babies and my life!  I hope everyone gets the opportunity to go out and enjoy this gorgeous day that has been given to us!

It's Time!!!!!!!!

The time has come for March Madness!  This is by far one of the best weeks of the year for me.  I love all the basketball that will be on TV in the upcoming weeks, and all the competition that is brings.  Many disagree with me, and that is fine, but for those of you out there that enjoy basketball, or any sport really you know how I feel.  It's so exciting and fun to see.  We really do enjoy following the teams and watching all the support they give one another, the buzzer beater shots, and all the fans.  It is truly an energetic atmosphere that is contagious in my opinion.  Thank goodness my little one likes to watch some basketball, but I'm gonna guess that we will have to watch some Mickey Mouse all morning each day so that Mommy can watch some basketball when it is time.  But that is okay.  Mickey is fun to watch too.  Plus it is supposed to be GORGEOUS out this week.  Time to get the bike down and the cart.  We may have to take a couple bike rides:)  I'm starting to get the spring itch!  All things that this March Madness brings with it.  I LOVE THIS TIME OF YEAR!!!!!!  To all of you that fill out brackets for money, or just for fun........Good Luck!!!!  And enjoy the best month of basketball of the year!!!!

Kiddos.....

Call me weird, protective, spoiled, whatever.  I HATE leaving my kids.  It doesn't matter if it's for a quick trip up town to get something, to going away for a couple of days.  I know I have a different perspective on parenting and child-rearing than many people do, but it works for me, and our family.  The best part is my husband agrees and feels the same about leaving our kids behind......WE DON'T do it.  Our belief is very much that we wanted these children so we're taking them with us, and keeping them with us as long as we're "cool" enough to do so in their eyes.  I cherish every moment with my girls and will with any other children we're blessed to have.  Don't get me wrong that Derek and I enjoy time together alone, but we're secure enough in ourselves and our relationship with each other that we know there will be tons of time to do things together as we get older, but the time that our babies are little and growing will not last.  Now don't sit there saying Roshelle you're crazy and judging people based on their needs.  I'm not.  I'm just voicing my opinion and my belief.  If your situation makes it so you need to leave your kids, or you enjoy leaving them, so be it, but it's not our parenting style and never will be.  Derek and I can honestly say that we feel our kids are happier and all around more independent because we're with them.  They have the security of knowing that Mommy  and Daddy Love them, and will be there no matter when.  Day, middle of the night.  This thought process I believe allows them to "just be kids" and enjoy living.  They don't have fears at all that we won't be there.  Some people ask me don't they drive you crazy?  My answer to that is No.  Sure we have moments, if I'm having a bad day, or they are, but 98% of the time they make me laugh, and don't drive me crazy at all.  This I honestly feel goes along with the fact that the day I became a mom, I learned and knew exactly what God's plan and purpose was for me.  That is to be the best wife, and mom I can be.  I truly value my marriage and strive to take care of my husband.  I also do everything I can to be a great mommy for my girls.  From the day I had Mallory I said that if I'm not succeeding at being a good wife and mommy, then something has to give so that I can focus on being better at it.  It's my job (but one that I take seriously, and light-hearted)  I love taking care of my family more than anything and when I had my kids my life became complete.  I'm the luckiest girl in the world.  I not only married my Best Friend and confidant, but together we have created two gorgeous girls and a life we both love. 

Leap Year!

Happy Leap Year Day 2012 everyone!  It is a gorgeous day today.  I believe it is around 60 degrees out and is February 29th.  I haven't checked the history on the highs of this day in the past, but I'm guessing this may be a first.  It is awesome to be able to have the windows open with a fairly warm breeze blowing through the house.  I absolutely love being able to let the fresh air in and get rid of the stale winter air that accumulates in the house during the winter months!  We even enjoyed playing outside yesterday for a couple hours.  I can say however that this weather does make me excited for spring and all that it has to bring.  I find myself thinking about my garden and what I want to plant this year, and hoping that it will be a good year again this year.  We were blessed with a great garden last summer and had many vegetables to show for it.  So here's to a wonderful Leap Year Day.  Hope it's great for everyone!

Season of Lent

The season of Lent has arrived, yet again!  Time seems to go around faster and faster every year.  And while I can't say that we always choose to give something up during this season it usually becomes more of something that we attempt to do to better ourselves and beliefs.  In the past we have tried giving things up and usually will not make it all that long.  So instead we feel it is better to try and really focus on living by our morals and beliefs and not let others influence us.  While that is fairly standard practice in our home anyhow, we do find that it does bring focus back to our lives and allows us to reflect on how we have and want to continue to live.  If there are changes to be made we may work on those, but mainly we reaffirm our relationship with our Lord, and each other.  So good luck to all who are working to keep their lenten promises and remember the reason for the season.  Have a great Lent season everyone!

Good Morning!

It's Saturday morning and I actually get a whole weekend with my entire family.  Derek didn't have to work last night so we get a little extra time together just the four of us.  Then it went ahead and snowed overnight so we can spend the whole weekend in the house if we so choose.  Maybe we'll take the girls sledding a little later today, but other than that it's a weekend full of finishing a few projects and playing with our little girls.  Now to figure out what the menu for the weekend will be.  I'm pretty sure at least one will be a pork roast YUM!    Stay tuned.......

Growing up

I am sitting here while my baby girl sleeps, and our oldest one colors and talks to herself, me, and her imaginary friends.  I can't get over how fast they are growing up.  Everyday Mallory comes up with something new she has picked up, or learned and I am fascinated and amazed at how much she knows already at such a young age.  Some days we can sit and talk like she is a mature young lady, (of course then the next minute that can change too) lol.  Then there is Jaclyn and I never thought that I could love another child as much as I loved Mallory (our first), but this little girl won my heart the moment I first held her, and that love increases daily as she is learning and growing just like her older sister.  She too is a smart little whipper-snapper.  I love watching her learn from her sister, and everything around her.  Today she figured out how to climb the stairs, and she is quite fast at it already if I do say so myself, then she figured out how to crawl behind the couch to get into anything that she could find (this has become a production to try and keep her out front), and she also learned to climb up on the chairs that go to the girls little table and chairs set.  She is quite the little monkey and not afraid of anything.  I am thankful that my girls are not afraid of anything and everything in their life.  While it makes you worry a little more that they may get hurt, it also is reassuring that they are not afraid to possibly get hurt, in my opinion this helps to keep them from hurting themselves as they tend to bounce a little better I think.  Derek and I have two very independent and fearless little girls.  This I think will mean that our next 18-20 years will be very interesting and eventful, but I wouldn't have it any other way.  Hopefully when they are old enough to be out on their own they will be able to stand their own ground and stand up for what they believe in.  For now I'll stick with enjoying my little ones and trying to remember as many things about this time as I can.  These memories are forever!!!

It's February 1st

So today begins February already.  Time seems to go so fast these days.  I can remember being in high school and thinking that time did go fast, then after school it seemed to move faster, and now that I am a parent and wife it keeps spinning faster than ever.  People always tell you that time will only go faster, and I think to myself "really how is that possible?"  Somehow though it really does keep moving ever so swiftly.  I'm just thankful that I am aware of this fact and do everything possible in my power to enjoy and take advantage of trying to remember and make the most of my time with my family and those that I love.  Now back to the fact that it is February first already, it is also 51 degrees here in Bucyrus right now.  This is amazing to me.  The fact that Mother Nature can make it like spring one day, then in a couple more days it will be frigid again.  Truly awesome!  That being said, we have definitely taken advantage of these nice couple of days.  Today we went out and picked up the sticks that have fallen from the trees, and Mallory played in the water that is laying in the backyard, and in her sandbox.  (I wasn't real thrilled with the water part, but it was only for a while.)  Now it's nap-time for the babies and then we'll head back out for some more playing.  I can also say that this nice weather has allowed us to turn the heat off in the house and even open up the windows for some fresh air.  I just love being able to air out the winter stuffy air that accumulates in a house.  It honestly gives me the itch to start spring cleaning, but I think we'll wait a little longer, since I'm sure we'll have to use the heat for a while longer.  Enjoys every day that God gives us, but especially these that he and Mother Nature choose to make so sunny and warm!  Have a great Day!

Wacky Weather

It is January 31st 2012, and it is 43 degrees with a high today of 54.  I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that is a bit odd for Ohio.  I'm all for warm weather and love Spring, but I really think it is a little early for this yet.  After all it is Ohio.  I'm sure Mother Nature is holding onto something big for us in the winter weather category.  I just hope that it comes and goes before April.  I also am not a fan of the possibility of a severe blizzard.  We can do without things like that.  As long as my family is safe at home though if weather hits, we'll deal with whatever she sends our way.  I can say though that I appreciate the sunshine this morning.  We haven't had a whole lot of that lately and it is a pleasant change of pace.  Maybe we'll bundle up and go out and play some today in the warmer temps.  Enjoy the day everyone!

Bittersweet

A lot has been going on in the Rowe house lately.  We've been finishing up some projects that we have neglected to do for some time, but that we wanted finished before we would sell the house.  This in turn makes the shoulders come up a little, because we have that off our list and off our "shoulder load".  The girls have also been doing a lot.  Mallory has been helping us paint, and clean.  She is such a good little helper (when she wants to be) :)  She has also been eating like a little horse.  I think she is coming into a growth spurt.  The little stinker seems to be hungry all the time lately.  Then there is little miss Jaclyn.  She is growing up so fast.  I don't have a little baby anymore that is for sure.  She has decided that she is old enough to stop nursing, and while I am okay with this I was hoping that she would hang on till she was a year old.  Her sister stopped at nine months too, so I'm used to it, but since we aren't going to be having another baby for a few more years I'm really going to miss that mommy baby time and connection.  She has also gotten to the point where she will be walking consistently in the next couple of days.   She successfully has taken between 3-5 steps by herself three or four times today.  This is truly bittersweet for both of us, but I see my baby growing so fast and am not sure where the last 9 months have gone.  I'm so proud of both of my girls and the things that they know how to do and that I see them learn to do each day.  They are smart little girls and happy too.  I don't want anyone thinking that I'm not also proud of my hubby, because I am so very proud of everything that he does and accomplishes for our family daily.  He is my rock and I wouldn't be able to do any of this without his support and comfort.  I love them all dearly and can't wait to see what our future holds!!!!

Bath Time!

I love bath time for the girls, on most days that is.  They both are little water bugs and LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, the tub.  They could sit and splash for hours.  Mallory enjoys "swimming" and being a fish.  She also likes pouring water over her head and face.  I am so thankful that she isn't afraid of water.  While that can bring on a whole slew of worries, I honestly feel it is better for her to like the water than to be terrified of it.  At least this way she will be willing to learn and pick up swimming very soon.  She was actually pretty close to figuring the movements out this past fall, so hopefully this summer she'll start to get the hang of it.  Jaclyn is loving the water I think a little more than her big sister did at this stage, so hopefully she'll enjoy it right along with her big sister.  Just a couple more things for us to do with these beautiful little girls we have. 

Birthdays coming up!

It's pretty early to be thinking about this and quite frankly it depresses me a little to think that my baby will be one, and her big sister will be 3 already!  But while it isn't fun to think that they are growing up so fast, it is going to be fun planning their parties!  I'm struggling a little with the themes this year.  Mallory enjoys so many things and won't really tell me one particular idea that she likes best, and Jaclyn it's just a matter of choosing one since she really won't remember it except in pictures anyhow.  I'm kind of thinking of maybe Care Bears for miss Jaclyn, or doing the baby zoo animals one.  Just can't decide for sure.  I guess it will probably come down to what type of cake I decide to do and that is what we'll go with.  Thank goodness I have a couple of months for the planning of this for both girls, but I know just like the last 9 months, 2 1/2 years have done, it will be here before we know it.  I love my little girls more than anything and love watching them grow up!  Stay tuned for Birthday Madness in the Rowe house!

Winter has come........

As I sit here this morning with my baby girl listening to the wind howling outside I can't believe how AWESOME Mother Nature is.  It really does make you realize that we are just little specks in the grand scheme of things.  For instance do you know anyone who can take temperatures from 40's-50's and drop them down to the teens in a matter of hours.  Plus add 40 mph winds and snow is just a humbling thought in my opinion.  It makes me think that all the people in my life who cause problems just to cause problems, or that bother me, are nothing more than wind blowing by.  Honestly that is what we all are.  We are merely borrowing Earth for the time we are alive, and that's it.  There are greater powers in life that humans will never replicate, or become (even though there are people that try).  I have huge respect for Mother Nature and all that she can do.  Between her and God (no matter if you believe in God, or some other higher power) they have final say in all that happens.  So when someone complains about snow, or all the rain, or it's too hot, I try to remember that she does what is best for Earth and herself and controls all.  How can you not have respect for something that creates some of the most amazing pictures and scenes we'll ever see.  Let's be thankful for our time here and with our friends and family, and try to enjoy the weather that we get.  Have a great day all, I'm sure many of you will be getting the day off if you're a part of school systems! 

Selling property

So this is the first property that I have ever owned, and now we are in the process of trying to sell it so that we can build a house over by Tiffin on some of Dad's ground so that we can be closer to friends, the farm, and the way of life that we want our kids and us for that matter to have.  After being away from farming (other than during busy seasons) for the last 8 or 9 years I'm anxious to get over there to help Dad with the farm and be around our other friends who also farm for us to be able to help them when we can.  Our house has been up for sale for about three weeks now and we have gotten two calls now.  In my opinion I don't think this is really too bad considering it's winter, the holiday season, and the fact that we're doing it ourselves in a not the best market.  So having two calls is pretty good I feel.  I just keep praying that we'll find that person/family that wants this property for their own so that we can move on in our process.  We have the Statue of St. Joseph that is supposed to help in selling homes, but haven't gotten him in the ground yet.  I'm really hoping once we bury him things will really take off.   I'm actually very much looking forward to babysitting once we have the new house built and are settled in.  So to any of you that are looking to sell, or in the process of selling, or have sold in the past, if you have any tricks that seemed to help in your process we'll gladly listen to them and see if they work for us.  Wish us luck and pray for us if you would please.  Hopefully this is a fairly painless process, and we can get our family situated in our new place and keep moving along with life!!!

Is Christmas really over?

This is of course an easy answer for most of us.  Not so much for our 2 1/2 year old.  She is still walking around singing Christmas carols, and wanting to watch Frosty, and Rudolf on TV when she can.  It really doesn't bother me at all, I love that she is so into music and has great rhythm for as young as she is.  However I can honestly say that I am starting to get tired of the Christmas songs, however I am attempting to get her interested in learning to play the piano, and my parents got her a real guitar for Christmas so we are trying to learn how to play that as well.  I have found that the Christmas songs tend to be a bit easier to learn when trying to play an instrument.  The melodies are quite catchy and easy to hum along as you are playing and learning these techniques.  We just may have to take a break from the Holiday music for a time and then come back to them again when we get tired of the new songs.  So coming back to my original question is Christmas really over.  I suppose the date is over, the schedule is over, the big red man has gone home, but Christmas is never really over unless you want it to be.  It's with us always it just sometimes takes a 2 year old to remind us just how great that season is.  :)

Brrr......It's Cold out there!

Boy has the temperature dropped in the last 48 hours.  I'm one of those people that has been hoping and praying for the ground to freeze (mainly so we can finish up the corn harvest), but even though I've been wanting the colder air, it's still a shock to the system when it gets real cold for the first time of the season.  I had to go outside to talk with the tow truck driver that came to get the van today, and then again when I fed the dogs and it was very chilly out.  Definitely need to make sure I have my gloves and hat around for when I have to go out now.  I suppose a silver lining to December being so much warmer than normal, it did help with the heating bill.  But now we'll have to see what January and February have in store for us.  They are known to be rough sometimes.  I can say though that if it's going to be cold, it's okay with me for there to be snow......it's pretty.

2012

So just as quickly as 2011 made it's exit, 2012 started with an unforgettable day.  While attempting to save some money by fixing our ball joints on the truck ourselves, Derek was getting the garage around to put the truck in so he could work on it so he moved the van out.  When he was ready to put the truck in he forgot where he had parked the van and backed the truck into it.  Long story short we now have a claim on the insurance, the front end of the van is all jacked up, and the truck is torn apart right now.  So I'm attempting to remain semi-optomistic that this year's bad luck is all hitting at once and getting it's ugly face out of the way right away.  While all we can do is sit back and laugh at the situation it does bring some concern about how we're going to handle the extra bills right now.  I guess that is why we have a credit card, and we will work to get it paid off ASAP.  I feel bad for Derek as I know that it eats at him that he messed the van up (thank goodness the truck just got a small dent in the bumper), but while I feel for him and the fact he has to deal with the mistake, I am thankful that it wasn't me that parked the can there.  lol  So I hope that everyone is finding 2012 to be a good start so far.  Even though we've had some bad luck, we're still looking forward to the year ahead.  At least no one was hurt and that is all that really matters.  Money will come and go, and our insurance rates will raise and lower, but the four of us are healthy and happy and that is all that really matters!  Happy 2012!!!