Milestone Day!

I feel like today was a big day in our house.  First, I cancelled the automatic shipment of diapers and wipes!  Evelyn is officially potty-trained and doing very, very well!  She'll still wear a diaper at night, but I have enough on hand to last for quite awhile.  Amelia (& even Jack) is still wearing Pull Ups at night.  It seems my little ones play too hard during the day to take time to go to the bathroom!  And then when they finally give up and go to sleep ... it all comes out!

The other big step was that we disassembled the toddler bed and crib in the girls room.  The bunk beds will get moved from Jack's room to their room next week.  Jack has a new bed ... and he's excited for that to be put together next week too.  This bed movement started with needing to re-stretch our carpet.  It has started to get ripples in it, and to make sure it lasts as long as the kids are home, I want to take good care of it.  So we are having it stretched and re-tacked, and then having it all cleaned.  Which means everything has to be taken out of the rooms!  It's quite an undertaking and we are doing it in steps each night.

Until next week, the kids are sleeping in empty rooms, on just a mattress.  They think it's super fun!  Sadly, it's how many kids sleep every night, or maybe without even a mattress.  We are very blessed and thankful for all the luxuries we have, and obviously we take them for granted.  We'll see how "fun" it is, if the girls actually sleep tonight!

My babies are growing up!  Only 3 years left and they'll all be in school.  And in 9 years my first one will graduate!  I'm trying to do better about enjoying each day, instead of wishing them grown up.  Each day is a special moment in itself.  I need to stand still, be quiet, and be watchful of it!

Amelia Singing

Amelia sings all the time. Songs she's heard, songs she's made up, songs she doesn't know - but pretends. She's always singing. Luckily, she has a nice voice and sings on key! Here is a little preview.

Evelyn Bernice

Oh, how I do love little Miss Evelyn Bernice. But man, is she busy! She's so much like Ellie at this age. Always into something, wanting your constant attention, finding a new way to do something. I feel more prepared this time because there are more eyes watching her and I have more experience, but I can't help but know it's never enough. She is still very leery of strangers, and doesn't give out smiles very easily. Even folks or family she knows well, she is slow to warm up.

She's talking more and more, and we are able to understand more and more these days. Some funny ones are:

boobie = movie
cock = sock
seeming soup = swimming suit

I've been singing to her for a few months now. It just calms her, so that she can settle down to go to sleep. Over the past couple of weeks, she's started singing with me. The first time she did it, I nearly cried. It's so sweet. Here is a video of us singing "Godspeed" by Dixie Chicks. It's my favorite lullaby. We also sing Over the Rainbow, but not in this video. Oh, and of course, Amelia needs to try and steal the show!



She's counting and doing ABC's too!

Sneek Peek of Amelia's 4 year Photo Shoot!

Shared photo book from Deanna

Click here to view this photo book larger

Conversation with Amelia about God

Mom, is God singing this song? (Always by Switchfoot)
Kind of. God told him to sing this song for Him. Will God tell you to sing a song someday?
Yes. I like God.
I like God too.
I want Him to hold me.
He is holding you, all the time.
(smile) I like God to hold me. And keep me safe.

Big Girl Bed

Evelyn has entered the next stage - big girl bed! Well, sort of. We've taken the side off of her crib, so that she can enter and exit like a big girl. Billy took on this task of removing the side without her approval though, and when she came into her room to see the bed partially dismantled she started crying and saying, "Daddy, no! It's broke! It's broke!" She cried and cried. Daddy consoled her and got her into it for nap time. He had to lay there by her until she nearly fell asleep, but overall we thought everything was okay.

Then last night when it was time for bed, I settled her in. Again, crying and saying "Mommy, it's broke." She did pretty well ... only getting out of bed 3 or 4 times to come and show us that she could. I'm very impressed with the smoothness of the transition ... let's hope it continues! Next will be getting rid of the pacifier!

Jack Singing

Jack singing "Hey, Soul Sister" casually on the couch. All the kids like this song.

So humble!

While driving to preschool this morning Amelia was telling me all about the letters she knows and how she can sing her ABCs, etc, etc. I said, "Yes, you are so smart!" She responded, "Yep! And I'm cute too!"

She then went on to tell me all the things she does that is good. Making her bed, sharing her Barbie with Evelyn, and singing at school. I suppose these reminders are so I can forgive when she's a little naughty.

Dance Party

The dance parties at the Faubus House are getting bigger. Evelyn has really joined in ... and the costumes are getting a bit more elaborate. Billy even broke out the strobe light (but I've refrained from sharing that video because it hurts your eyes.)

You'll maybe notice Jack's bow tie. He had me make that for him to match his vest. It's made of paper and pinned on. You'll have to decide for yourself who is the coolest.

Evelyn's New Trick

Evelyn's new thing she picked up over the holidays was scolding us. I guess she sees us do that to her too often! She puts her head down, squints her eyes, and shakes her finger at you. She doesn't ever really say anything ... just the shaking of the finger.

She also says, "'Cole Come Here!" Telling Nicole to come to her. She'll say it to everyone, but it's funniest when she says, "'Cole Come 'ear!"

Chistmas Eve Tradition

Our tradition on Christmas Eve is to attend our church in Ankeny with Tony & Jana and the kids. Our church, Lutheran Church of Hope - Northbranch, had 3 services. I sang in worship band the 3pm service, and worked the nursery in the 5pm service while the rest of my family attended worship. We had over 800 attend all 3 services.

Afterward, we went to Tony & Jana's new home for dinner. We rotate hosting dinner and this year was their turn. They served a wonderful meal of roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, cornbread stuffing, carrots, rolls, etc, etc, etc! It is such a blessing to share a meal with all our kids and they too with all their parents!

Santa had arrived while we were at church, so the kids were excited to open presents and stockings! Here are a few photos from the evening.

Ellie excited about her Stand Microphone from Santa, while Jack is admiring his new Marshmallow Gun in the background.



Jack opening his Marshmallow Gun!

Amelia opening her Santa gift - A Princess Barbie.
See the Santa video for proof that she asked him!

Evelyn opening her Santa gift - a vacuum & cleaning set

Christmas Eve Sledding

Posing by the new colorful sled!

Awe -- Daddy with his girls.

Kids at home before heading to the sledding hill

It was snowing beautifully on Christmas Eve morning, and this was the first big snowfall for sledding! We went to the local hardware store, bought another sled and headed for a nice hill here in town. Luckily, friends of our were leaving and let us borrow 2 more sleds ... and all 6 of us had a blast. We are definitely a family in need of more than 2 sleds!

Evelyn road with me and Amelia stuck with Billy, while Ellie and Jack had their own. Some bigger kids were there with a snowboard, and so Ellie & Jack spent a lot of their time using their sleds as surfboards. Not very successfully though!

Amelia's Preschool Program

Amelia is attending Miss Wendy's Preschool Monday thru Thursday mornings from 8:30-11:30am. She just adores it and is a super student. She loves learning. The teachers put together an amazing program for Christmas and here are some photos and videos from that day. Amelia played Mary and her good buddy, Taylor was Joseph. They each had lines, but spoke so softly that you couldn't hear them.

Santa Elves in the Workshop (Reindeer behind them)

Miss Hollie getting "Mary" in her costume.

I love how she tries to do the actions, but doesn't want to drop baby Jesus!



Santa jokingly says, "You're a big 3 year old!" And then goes on to say, "You could dub as one of my elves." Yes, she's little, Santa!

Birthday Suit

Okay, so I'm pretty sure my 3 year old does NOT know the meaning of what a "birthday suit" is ... but last night after her bath I was a little unsure! She walked to her room with a towel wrapped around her, then stood in front of Billy and as she threw off the towel, hands raised, she exclaimed, "Happy Birthday, I'm naked!" This girl continues to just say the darnedest things.

Day with Two Kids

Flynn Rider, Rapunzel, and crew!

Billy set off to Arkansas this morning with the two little girls. His Grandpa Faubus passed away and so he went down for a couple of days to spend time with his family. The big kids and I stayed back because we have other things going on, and I have to man the deli on Monday.

Anyways, Ellie and Jack set off this morning to run some errands (despite the slick roads). I really enjoyed my time with them. They are at an age (most times!) that they can shop and run errands while be helpful and not whining and asking for a million things. It was a pleasure to take them out for lunch and to a movie - because I wanted to and surprised them, and not because they whined and begged for it!

It was such a joy to just sit and eat with them without rushing or fighting. Picking or fighting. I just sat and talked with them and stared at them. They are growing up so fast... am I hurrying them up too much? I hope my sacrifices now don't become a regret later. I believe I'm making the right choices for us as a family and so my kids can grow to see what it means to go after their dreams, give back to their community, and most of all have a Christ-centered life.

The continual dilemma of a parent!

Kids Concerts

Ellie is in the 2nd row in the middle wearing a black dress, next to the striped sweater boy.
She has a headband on, so her hair is pulled back.
Fun song and actions to Somebody Snitched on Me!"

Jack is front row, wearing a black shirt. He's near the piano player's head. It's funny to watch him check out the other kids for all the actions.
But overall, an active participant! Nicely done for first year!

Ellie's First Piano Recital at the Ballard Creek Senior Center.
This is her teacher, Ronda Ceynar, accompanying her.

Tour Of Homes

Our local community group, HERO has done a Holiday Tour of Homes for the past few years. Each year I've been on the committee, and have wanted to be on the tour. Well, this was my year! In the midst of all the commotion, this was a nice way for me to retreat. Decorating for Christmas! I've had a fun theme in my head for years, and even though I didn't quite pull it all off - I really liked my results. The event raised over $1000 for two local charities here in Huxley. Here are a few pictures from that day, December 5, 2010:

Our big tree in the Great Room. Full of fun feathers, glitter & sequins in pink, aqua and lime green! This was my favorite to put together.

The windows hold wreaths and are adorned with green foil garland.

My dad made our mantel and got it installed, so I was able to set pretty stuff above the fireplace. Yeah!!

I have a collection of Christmas plates that are beautifully displayed in my buffet

Table setting, featuring my pink and silver china

More feathers! And this beautiful pink poinsettia!

Ellie's Room has a black & white theme with splashes of aqua and pink

I received the most compliments on my light trees along the basement wall.

One of 7 wreaths my mom put together for me. Feathers are my favorite!

Jack's tree is a "HUNT, FISH, CAMP" theme

Kids bathroom blue w/ snowflakes

The little girls room is, of course, pink!

My bedroom is done in browns and golds

Halloween

Evelyn as the chicken this year. She didn't go Trick or Treating with the kids, but did go to some store with our daycare provider. She was adorable!

Dead Pirate Ghost & a Pop Star

Ballerina Witch & the crazy blue hair pop star!

Billy and I had commitments at church this year, so we didn't get to dress up at all! We missed my sister's big Halloween bash, and any others that were around town. But it was worth it - we had a great Alpha Retreat weekend.

Updates needed!

Okay - so Facebook has officially taken over my life and my blogging. Bummer - sad to say. But I need to take time to put things here too, where it'll last forever ... as opposed to Facebook and it's gone in a day or two.

Updates:

Billy: On October 1st, he became officially unemployed in the corporate world and took the leap to open his dream of a "restaurant!" I also joined - and fulfilled my lifelong dream of owning my own business with my own product. We are thrilled with our opportunity to open B Fabulous BBQ & Catering in the local grocery store here in town. We are kind of like the deli. With hot, fresh lunch and dinner. We are open Monday - Friday from 10:30AM - 6:30PM. All the details are at our website at www.bfabbbq.com.

We've been getting rave reviews and have lots of loyal customers. Billy is working 12 hr days most days, but we are working on getting someone trained to close, so he can be home at 5pm. I am going up 3-4 days a week in the mornings thru lunch. Our Pulled Pork is a staple, along with fresh sides. Brisket and Ribs are requested often and we try to get them worked into the lunch special every 7 days or so.

Overall, we are thrilled with our results! It was a scary leap of faith, but a very prayerful decision. Lots of support from family and friends - and we can't say THANK YOU enough!

Tony & Jana Shepherd helping us at Prairie Festival this summer

Deanna: I'm a bit nuts these days. Trying to cook at the store, do the financials & marketing ... plus still do Pampered Chef at the level that I've always done. Oh yeah- four kids & a household too! Least to say, something has to give! Right now it's my eating habits and sanity. January 2011 will hold some other changes, we just haven't figured those all out completely yet. It's hard to give up all the commitments that we love and fill us up (church, HERO, HBA, social). So it's just a matter of doing a little bit less of each, but not giving up any.

Nicole: Who? You may say. Nicole has been living with us since end of May. She has babysat the kids since Ellie was about a year old. She was needing a place to get back on her feet - and she landed here. This fall she has been a super help and launching the business could not have happened with out her help. Where else can you get a sitter from midnight -3am?! She helps around the house, with the kids a lot, and has recently taken a role at the deli. She's doing a great job and has a niche with the customers.

Ellie & Nicole taking snapshots of themselves on my camera

Ellie: 2nd grade is treating her well. She continues to do well at school - and as far as I know has friends that like her. She recently got her hair cut and an iPod for her birthday - between the two of those things she grew like 4 years! She started piano lessons about a month ago and is catching on quickly. Not too many arguments when it comes to practicing. She continues to help out a lot with her brother and little sisters. She's very responsible and independent ... and only has moments of disrespect. She and I butt heads a lot - mostly because we are so much alike. Her and Billy seem to get along much better. Hmmm ... wonder why? She finished up a much better soccer season and is now trying basketball for the first time. She's not a natural athlete, but does enjoy the social and the activity.



Jack: Kindergarten has been pretty good for Jack. He was SO tired that first month, he could barely function when he got home from school. But he's doing much better. Although, he's getting so comfortable, that he's starting to test school rules and boundaries too. He recently took a trip to the Principal's office! Nothing mean or vicious, but just having a hard time keeping his hands to himself and likes to wrestle and get rough with other boys. I think it's pretty harmless and normal for that age, but he needs to learn that it's not appropriate at school. Stars Wars and Transformer pretend play is for at home in the yard! Academically he needs help with reading ... learning his letters at this age. He's behind, but nothing serious and we are seeing progress. At home, besides sometimes being too rowdy, he's still a sweet boy that likes to cuddle and plays well by himself.



Amelia: Oh my, our comedian and drama queen! This girl will say something that will split your gut at least twice a day. She is a chatter-box ... and very witty. But with that also comes the lows. She quit taking naps over a year ago, so at least once a week the tired catches up with her and the meltdown ensues. She loves dressing up, playing Barbies and babies, but also enjoys playing house or fort with Jack & Ellie. Her most favorite pastime is coloring. She's an AMAZING artist for her age. Neither Ellie or Jack had any interest (and still don't really) in coloring at this age, and it's such a joy to have a child that will sit and color or marker for 2 hours. She likes to draw too and is doing well learning her letters, numbers, shapes, etc. She goes to preschool 4 days a week for 3 hours and just adores it!

Getting ready for Halloween

Evelyn: My baby. Not so much a baby anymore! She'll be 2 in February and has started potty training this past week all on her own. She struggles putting words together that makes sense to us, but slowly more and more are become more audible. She's SO much like Ellie was. BUSY, busy! And just ornery. I tell Billy how he missed this with Ellie ... and it's pay back! You can't barely leave her alone for a minute. And as soon as you get her dressed, or her coat/shoes on -- she's got them off again. She's into books right now, and will sit and let you read to her for a hour, book after book after book.

18 month photo by Aunt Abbi

Overall, I think we are doing well. I'm sure there are balls getting dropped, since so many are in the air. But we are all healthy, most everyone seems happy, and despite some growing pains with the new schedules, we are all great. I'm exhausted, but most days content. The kids make my heart melt and blood boil all in the same minute. My husband continues to adore me, even though I haven't shaven my legs in over a month. I told my sister the other day, "Doesn't it suck to be successful? We could just sit around and drink beer all day." I suppose I'll continue to work my butt off to be successful. God has given me the gifts.

Lastly, I apologize if you were one of the balls that was dropped. We adore all of our friends and relationships. We haven't forgotten about you - and once we get settled into our new "life" as business owners, we will be seen & heard again. Love to you and blessings this Christmas season.