It's All in My Head

Music Monday

2009-04-27T23:05:00.002+02:00

My musical selection this week is a tribute to my London trip where we saw Wicked. I highly recommend it. I love this song, it's message, and the whole background behind it(go see it). Here is the Wickedly awesome duo of Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth performing the abridged version of Defying Gravity at the Tony Awards.

London Weekend

2009-04-22T22:55:00.002+02:00

So on Friday, I'm off to London for a quick girls weekend. We're doing the London Eye and have tickets to see Wicked! Cannot wait!

I hope this happens at Piccadilly Circus while I am there. I will join in and promise to video tape the whole thing. Don't worry I won't scare you and wear the spandex leotard.

Music Monday

2009-04-20T22:58:00.004+02:00

See I didn't forget! It's been a week...I'll say that much. I'm off with sick kids tomorrow, so I'll try to post and update about that. Ireland pictures need to get posted. And I'm off to London on Friday...busy, busy.

But back to the business at hand. Once again I was going to go with another song, until I found something else. It just seemed more appropriate to my life right now. See we all have those days/weeks/months, where all we can do is exist at times. It happens. And perhaps my last week, or at least a few days were like that. So I found this song, and it made me feel good. Listen to it when you are having one of "those days." I'll pray you through it...

Somebodys Praying Me Through - Allen Asbury

And a bonus one...because I love Ricky Skaggs and it goes with my Music Monday theme...and I'm still praying...for you.

Music Monday

2009-04-13T22:59:00.002+02:00

So I tossed around the idea of making a few "theme" days on my blog to help me focus and make it easier to channel my thoughts. It seems a little rigid....but I've always wanted to do Music Monday...so here goes.

I feel like I need to give a little background about me in order to fully grasp Music Monday. Music to me is like air...I cannot imagine living without it. It pulls me out of the pits, moves me, re-centers me...you get the picture. Music touches my soul like few things can. And I always figured that sharing my soul music would really give you a clearer picture inside my head.

I had a musical selection already lined up for today...and then I randomly stumbled on something else. I don't want to say too much...because I don't want to take away the effect. But please watch the clip below. I am unable to embed it, so clicking the link will take you there. It is about 7 minutes...but I promise you it's worth it. After you watch, you can scroll down for my take...but like I said, I didn't want to ruin anything for you.

Music Monday Video - Click Here

Okay...so read this only after you've watched the video. This video left me with goose bumps and tears streaming down my face. Guess you can't judge a book by it's cover. When this lady came on stage and others were laughing, I felt awful for her. Her story was sad....then the music started. One of my all time favorite Broadway songs, from my all time favorite Les Miserables. I'm thinking, "You're kidding me right? Who in their right mind tries a song like this?" And then she sang. And the tears came. Happy tears, beautiful tears. This woman who has basically nothing going for her, a person who people cast off at first glance; has been blessed with a voice that most only dream of. A true diamond in the rough.

So it moved me. Made me happy for her, and a little sad for me. Why am I so quick to judge? Just one of those life lessons to help me remember that talents and gifts are in all of us...no matter how insignificant this world makes us feel. So beautiful things come in all different shapes, sizes, and packaging.

Oh and in about 2 days, this video has been watched about 1.5 million times...crazy numbers....never again will this woman ever be called ordinary.

I forgot...

2009-04-04T00:31:00.002+02:00

I forgot to add that the sun has been shining the past couple of days. It was almost warm! We played outside as much as we could and soaked up all that wonderful sunshine. Thank you God!

Chaos & Peace

2009-04-04T00:20:00.002+02:00

Sorry it's been so long since I updated. As usual, we have been busy. To top it off, the hard drive on my computer died a horrible death and I have been without a computer for the past month. I should have it back next week.

We are leaving for Ireland on Monday! Hooray! I promise pictures once I can get them put on my computer.

I'll leave you with a song that moved me this week. It kind of felt like these words came right from my heart. I feel blessed that among all the chaos, I still have the peace.

The Simple Things

2009-02-25T22:06:00.002+01:00

I wish I could write and tell you about my exciting event packed day, but I can't. To be honest today was just like any other weekday. Get the kids off to school, run some errands, clean up the house, do some paperwork...the usual....except with one huge difference...the sun! The sun decided it wanted to shine today. You do not know how much you take the sun for granted until you go long periods without seeing it. I decided to take advantage of it, and although it is still cold, I walked to pick up Caleigh from school. On the way, the sun was beaming down on my face and warming my skin. The air was fresh. Not a cloud in the sky. As I got about a block away I heard the children playing outside. Pure. Joy. Fresh laundry was hanging from most homes. The church bells ringing. Caleigh and I walked home slowly, hand in hand, just taking it all in. It's these simple things that make my life extraordinary.

Conversations with My Kids

2009-02-24T01:12:00.002+01:00

This is a conversation that takes place between Caleigh and John every Monday through Friday. Usually it has the same ending...but the other day we got something different...

Caleigh: Daddy I missed you when you were at work.
Daddy: I missed you while I was at work.
Caleigh: I don't work.
Daddy: When you get older are you going to work?

This usually where Caleigh says no and the conversation ends. And knowing how Caleigh is, this isn't much of a shock. This girl may never want to work a day in her life...but you can bet she wants to be taken care of. So I'll continue with our glimmer of hope...

Caleigh: Yep
Daddy: Really? What do you want to do when you grow up?
Caleigh: I want to work at home and be a princess and make money.

Mommy: Honey that's called marrying rich....good luck.

Sigh....see it was only a glimmer of hope. Fair warning to any potential suitors…our daughter wants to be a princess at home and make lots of money. Please send in your suggestions on how this might be possible. I'd hate to squash her dream!

Conversations with My Kids

2009-02-21T22:44:00.002+01:00

So to preface this conversation...Caden has decided he wants to be a dentist when he grows up. We had this conversation at lunch on Job Shadow Day, when he went to work with Dad to see what they did in the Air Force.

Me: Did you have fun today?
Caden: Yes
Me: Did you know you can be a dentist and be in the Air Force too?
Caden: Really?
Me: Yep, and then they pay for all your school (wink, wink) and once you serve your time, you get out, start your own practice, make lots of money, and buy your mom and dad something really nice...
Caden: Like a toothbrush?

This kid is going to make a great dentist someday. However, when I mentioned something really nice, I wasn't thinking about toothbrushes.

And so we wait....

2009-02-21T21:57:00.002+01:00

Okay, if any of you really know me...you know I am not the most patient person. I hate waiting. I want instant gratification. Waiting plain stinks. It's unknown. You have no idea how long you will wait...you just wait.

I feel like that is my life right now. I have all these questions, and life decisions coming up and I have no direction...zero! I pray, I listen, and of course...I wait.

Caden and I had a conversation the other day about God and how he talks to us. I told him that when you feel like doing something you shouldn't and something inside you tells you it's wrong, that's God talking to you. His response was..."But I just don't hear Him."

I think we have the same problem. I'm listening...or at least I think I am....but I'm hearing nothing. So with every second, and every passing minute, God humbles me a little more. Just enough to remind me that I'm on His time....not mine. And so I wait...

After watching Fireproof the other night I heard a song I will post below. If I could have put my thoughts into eloquent words and melodies...it would have been this song. And so hear I am, praying, worshiping, serving, and yes....waiting.

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T22:48:00.007+01:00

Happy 2009 everyone!

I had a few things on my mind that I wanted to post before 2009 arrives.

First I wanted to share New Year's German style with you. The Germans are crazy about their quiet hours and holidays. In fact, you can be fined for depositing your glass bottles in the recycle dumpsters during certain hours of the day and after 9 pm at night. At first I thought this is crazy, but it is great never worrying about your neighbor blaring music at midnight or a crazy loud party...it just doesn't happen. So when people told me the German's go crazy over New Year's, I said...yeah right. My neighbors said that everyone in Germany shoots off fireworks on New Year's Eve right at midnight. Seriously? The quiet Germans? Okay. So our houses are kind of like the east coast...packed in tight and built up. There is simply no room for safe fireworks...however the cement house probably wouldn't burn if we tried...cement blocks, metal, and stucco probably don't even ignite. So last year when the clock struck midnight...I was ready! A few pops and bangs and I headed off to bed....then it happened. Everyone set theirs off. I swear if I didn't know better, I would have sworn we were under attack. It was scary. I panicked, the dogs barked, and John and the kids slept through it all. The mayhem continued at least until 3 am…the only night when fireworks are legal in Germany. The next morning John rolled his eyes as I replayed it for him, until he went in the yard and cleaned up the remnants. Our yard was covered with fireworks. My favorite were the ones that looked like bottle rockets (aren't those illegal in the US...and with good reason) on steroids. The sticks on these things were about 3-4 feet long. So this year I'm ready. Again, John and the kids sleep, while the dog and I are ready to fear for our life. Happy New Year's to all my crazy German friends! They truly are nights I will never forget!

I also wanted to say how grateful we are for everything that 2008 brought us. Perspective is such a wonderful thing. Looking back, I realize how blessed our family really is. Our lives are rich and full because of our dear friends and loving families. We wish we could have cloned ourselves to spend the holidays with each of you. However, you were in our thoughts and prayers, and always in our hearts. Thanks always to our Lord and Savior who gets credit for every good and perfect thing in our lives. Our cup is full and runs over.

Happy New Year to you all. May blessings abound and bring the best life has to offer.

Ein gutes und gesegnetes neues Jahr!

The Dog House

2008-12-18T18:11:00.001+01:00

My friend Suzanne emailed me this and it had me cracking up!

Beware of the Doghouse- Hilarious! - The most amazing home videos are here

I'm Ready for Christmas...What?

2008-12-07T23:10:00.003+01:00

This never happens, and I mean never! I have great intentions of getting up the tree and decorations the day after Thanksgiving. I have visions that my shopping will be done before December hits and that when Christmas arrives, I won't be in a last minute panic to do everything. Every year I try, and every year I fail. But not this year people! My tree and decorations were up the day after Thanksgiving, and my shopping was done before December.

Now living in a foreign country makes you prepare much futher in advance, but I am really proud of myself. We had John's office Christmas party this past weekend, and now we are basically done! I do need to mail a couple of packages this week, do my wrapping, and get my cards in the mail. Yes, you heard me right...I am doing cards this year and they just might arrive before Christmas! Last year I heard all about it when we skipped a year in the card & letter tradition. Sorry, but I just didn't plan far enough ahead since we had only been in Germany a few months. If any of you need our new mailing address, please email me and I will get it to you.

Anyway, I'm totally ready for Christmas! I can't believe it!

John Pins on Lt. Col.

2008-12-07T22:46:00.005+01:00

On Sept. 1, John had his pinning on ceremony to be promoted to Lt. Col. We had so many friends and co-workers come out that made it so special. There was standing room only and we thank all of you for coming! John's mom was still in town as well, so it was nice to be able to share this with her. John's boss, Gen. Bender, did the official business. Then John's mom and I put on his new rank and we let the kids change the rank on his shirt. We followed the ceremony with a nice reception.

John works so hard, and this is only one small reflection of the credit and recognition that he deserves. I am so proud of the officer and man that he is, and so lucky to be married to such a cool guy! Congratulations John...we are so proud of you!

Caleigh Turns 3!!!

2008-12-07T22:32:00.005+01:00

On August 24th, Caleigh turned 3 years old! I can hardly believe it! She celebrated with some friends at the house at her Luau Beach Party. Grandma was here to help her celebrate and make it even more special!

At the end of the day, she got her big present from us...her doll house. Thank you Mom, Dad & Josh for buying furniture for the house. It was a huge hit, an even though she was exhausted, she stayed up late and played until I made her go to bed. She also scored a new Dora tricycle from Grandma and Grandpa!

Happy Birthday beautiful girl!

Halloween

2008-12-07T21:48:00.008+01:00

First we headed to the Pumpkin Festival. The weather was amazing and it was so nice to eat, play and shop! Here is John & Caden next to the biggest pumpkin there!

Time to carve pumpkins! Daddy and Caden worked on one, while Caleigh and I tried to be creative. They turned out really cute and looked amazing once they were lit up!

Halloween was so much fun this year! I was really proud that we saved a ton of money and I made the costumes this year! They were fun to work on, the kids loved them, and we got lots of compliments! Caleigh had to be Cinderella(of course), and Caden was Mario. The kids got to wear their costume 3 times...so we made good use of them.

Brain Dump

2008-12-07T21:47:00.000+01:00

I have been a slacker and have so much to report! I have issues downloading my pictures directly onto my computer, so I get lazy and forget…and what good are blog posts without pictures???

Anyway…get ready for a mass brain dump!

Those Boys are Much Too Much.....

2008-11-14T01:10:00.002+01:00

Being that we live in Germany, we don't see commercials every day like you do……both a blessing and a curse. Our AFN programming only air cheesy military commercials and PSA's. No cute Super Bowl commercials...nada. However I saw this one the other day and fell in love. I love this commercial! Guess it qualifies under the PSA category...but all the same, it's great! I've watched it over and over and it still makes me smile. Guess it speaks right to the heart of a cheerleader and daddy's girl!

Happy St. Martin's Day

2008-11-12T01:28:00.002+01:00

Happy St. Martin's Day! Caleigh made two lanterns at school this week, but no way was she going to sing songs or hold her lanterns for the parade. Can't say I blame her!

Love Story

2008-11-11T23:37:00.002+01:00

I really like Taylor Swift these days. When she first came out, I thought she was so so....but I'm pretty much digging all her latest stuff. Here is her new video and single of Love Story....super cute song and video....enjoy! I can't stop listening to it!

Facebook

2008-11-11T23:29:00.002+01:00

I have to admit, when I signed up for a Facebook account, I felt about 10 years too old. We were getting ready to leave the AF Academy and our cadets had convinced us that Facebook was a great way to keep in touch. So, I took the plunge....

Let me tell you how much I love this. My brother says I have more applications than a high school girl, and that is probably true. But I love that I have been able to reconnect with so many high school and college friends that I figured I would never hear from again! It's been so neat to see where they are and what they are doing. It's kind of like stalking people....only legal and a lot less creepy.

So hop on the band wagon, drink the kool-aid, whatever...join Facebook so I too can stalk you! Maybe they should make that their new ad campaign.

I'm back!

2008-11-11T23:26:00.002+01:00

Ok...so as many of you noticed....I took a little vacation from blogging....but I'm back now. Look for many more updates to follow.

Goodbye to My Faithful Friend

2008-04-23T16:04:00.006+02:00

Hercules

February 11, 2001 - April 23, 2008

It was one of those days that you wish you could just skip over. Today, a beautiful sunny Wednesday, Hercules left his failing body and this earth. We miss him terribly.

Hercules was a miracle dog from the start. He and his brothers and sisters were dumped behind a shelter and found wet, cold, and suffering from respiratory problems. We adopted him through a Rottweiler rescue that we had worked with and brought him home when he was about 8 weeks old. He was the cutest and sweetest puppy you had ever seen. He was just a black furball with lots of puppy kisses. At 3, Herc battled his first challenge when had to have two total hip replacements. That dog had 100% titanium hips! He recovered great and was a new dog. About a year later he got a strange viral infection that attacked his intestines and nearly killed him...but again he fought back stronger than ever. This last bout, we thought we were battling arthritis and joint pain. Not so...it appears that Herc most likely had the same disease that claimed his mother...bone cancer. Early this morning, Herc woke us up yelping. When we got to him, he wasn't using his leg and in a lot of pain. I knew it was bad. X-rays confirmed the worst...a huge break in his leg and the bone around it had deteriorated. A tumor had eaten away at the bone and most likely was raging through his other bones and body parts. He had so much life in him, but a body that was failing him. We did the only loving and selfless thing we could do for him...we let him go.

Herc was my constant companion. He stayed up late with me, loved to snuggle, and gave great kisses. His love was unconditional and I will forever miss his sweet face and gentle spirit. We were lucky to have 7 wonderful years with him.

Goodbye my sweet and faithful friend...you will forever be missed and loved. I'll meet you one day at the Rainbow Bridge...for now run free my sweet boy.

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

Faithful in Prayer

2008-04-16T22:45:00.002+02:00

I have a daily bible verse on a MySpace page...this was the verse for today...

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Romans 12:12

You know when you pray and pray for a miracle, and you try to hold out hope even though the situation seems hopeless and everyone around you is telling you it can't be done....guess what it can! We had major prayer answered this week...a true miracle. I feel like this verse was handpicked for me today. My ever doubting and sometimes cynical mind needed this boost this week. My heart always holds out hope...but those voices in my head sometimes say otherwise.

With a heart full of hope, patient, and prayer...
Your friend and prayer warrior

Spring

2008-04-14T23:24:00.006+02:00

Ahhh...Spring! I have been longing for it....and not just in the physical sense. I've been craving an emotional, spiritual, and physical Spring in my life....and it's coming, I can just tell. Signs of Winter fade and the sun begins to unearth new growth and life. I can't tell you how many seasons I have gone through in my life...but it's more than 4 a year! The Spring brings new growth, life, and truth. The Summer you can bask in your new found glory and soak it all in. By Autumn, change once again has hit you. Something happened, whether or not you caused it, it changes things. Then the inevitable...Winter hits. At times it is beautiful and deceiving....but in reality it represents death. While it sounds morbid...it's not really. Then Spring arrives and brings life…something new and beautiful.

And everything that's new has bravely surfaced; teaching us to breathe.
And what was frozen through is newly purposed; turning all things green.
And so it is with you, and how you make me new with every season change.
And so it will be, as you are recreating me....Summer, Autumn, Winter, Spring.

Every Season - Nichole Nordeman

Okay...now hit pause on the music thats already playing on this page...turn up your sound and watch the video. Welcome Spring!

Holland Trip

2008-04-13T21:56:00.011+02:00

This weekend I did a quick one day trip (without the family) to The Netherlands to see the tulips and a cheese & wooden shoe factory. It was a nice trip with a neat bunch of ladies. Riding on a bus for 6+ hours each way was a little brutal. We had to take the 2 seats directly behind the driver's seat....which I can only equate to riding in the front car of a roller coaster. For fear of my life, I tried to keep my eyes closed and sleep. However, it's hard to sleep when parts of your body start going numb. I was so excited to sleep in my own bed and stretch out once we got home!

The first part of the trip took us to Keukenhof (Lisse, The Netherlands), which is a huge park that has acre upon acres of perennial flowers...the most famous being the tulip. There are over 7 million bulbs planted each year at the park. We saw so many beautiful flowers, and I got some great pictures. The tour had us stay at Keukenhof for 6 hours, which was honestly too long. You can only see so many flowers, and then you are just ready to move on.

The second half of the trip took us down the road to the Clara Maria Farm, which makes its own cheese and wooden shoes. It was a little stinky, with the cows being right there, but a wonderful stop. The farm has been passed down from generation to generation, and is now being run by a Dutch man and his American wife. They had such a cute story. They met and fell in love when she was on a tour coming through the farm. All of their children worked in the farm, and they all spoke perfect English...such a nice change for someone who struggles with language barriers everyday! We saw them make wooden shoes, and then they showed us how they made their cheese fresh. The cows are on site and milked 2 times per day. I have to say that I love cheese and eat quite a bit of it. This was some of the best cheese I have ever had. I ended up taking 3 different cheeses home.

The token windmill…I thought these were all over in Holland. I only saw two.

Beautiful Tulips

The DaisiesPretty flowers everywhere!
Rows upon rows of perfect flowers
Fun bunch of ladies
Orchids...amazing display of these
These flowers were just fun and whimsical
Me in the wooden shoes
Kees showing us how to make the shoes

Poland Trip

2008-04-07T12:44:00.024+02:00

At the end of February, 5 other ladies and I did the big trip to Poland for the famous Polish Pottery. If you haven't experienced Polish Pottery before...you probably shouldn't. While I've never been a drug addict...I'm pretty sure it could be compared to crack. You get one piece, and it's just not enough...after a while, you realize you can never have enough!!!

We drove 2 big SUV's, and might as well had a sign that said "Stupid Americans" attached to each car. In all seriousness, the Polish depend on Americans to buy the pottery. Most Germans don't like it, so tourists and Americans totally fuel this industry. We drove about 8 hours each way in horrible weather and a bad stau (traffic jam) or two. Our trip took us to the very place they make the stuff....Boleslawiec, Poland. We stayed at an awesome little hotel that had great shopping, authentic and delicious Polish food, and cozy rooms. It's called Hotel Protea. Boleslawiec is kind of a rough area in parts. Poverty is high and therefore crime is high. American's are obviously a huge target. Luckily our hotel was very safe and had gated parking to keep our vehicles safe.

While out shopping the stores and factories for the pottery, many times you will want to pay the children to watch your car. If you come out and the car is good...you give them a few bucks...they go crazy. It's kind of sad, but it totally makes their day. I had one kid that literally followed me from store to store....I guess I paid well! Deb gave him candy which was also a hit. At one store, they proceeded to wash all my windows and most of the car with paper towels and something that I assume was Windex. What a sweet gesture, even if it was pouring rain. I rewarded them for their efforts, and I'm sure they had tummy aches from all the candy and their pockets full of money.

The pottery stores were amazing. It was seriously overwhelming. For those of you not familiar with Polish pottery, it is great. It is dishwasher, oven, freezer, and microwave safe...virtually indestructible (with the exception of my tile kitchen floor). Each piece is potted by hand, hand painted, glazed, and fired. Each piece is a one of a kind piece of art. The patterns and colors are many and almost everyone can find something they like...goodness knows I did!

I don't have many pictures of Poland...because there wasn't much to look at. I have included pictures of my haul for the trip.

Here is a picture outside a pottery shop. It's like pottery on steroids...they have these all over the city since this is what Boleslawiec is famous for.

Here is the Christmas stuff I picked up. All of it is made in Poland except for the nesting Santa, which was made in Russia. All items are hand painted, hand carved, etc... Pretty amazing when you see some of the detail in these things.

Here are the Russian nesting Santa's. The kids love these things.

These are also from Russia. These dolls are extremely rare and hard to find. They are made of lime wood and every amazing detail on them was done by hand. I fell in loves with this little girl in her pink dress. The box is also hand carved. The small cuts and detail were unlike anything I had seen. I had to have it!

These are my end of the year teacher gifts. They are crocks that can be used to hold kitchen utensils, flowers, or you can even cook in it. I think I'm going to fill it with some yellow flowers when I give them.

How cute is this guy??? They had tons of different kinds...but I fell in love with the cowboy. He holds a bottle of wine and makes for a neat conversation piece.

I love crosses. I bought these three to add around the house.

These bakers are amazing! They are even painted inside! The glaze makes Pam and sticking a thing of the past. They cook so well and clean up so easy. I love them!

This is a mini tea set that I got for Caleigh for next Christmas...maybe. I may have to save it until she's old enough not to break it into a million pieces.

I love these two serving pieces. So elegant with scalloped edges. I haven't used them yet...but I can't wait! The blue, green, and cream looks great with my everyday dishes.

This tea set was one thing I definitely wanted to get. I love it! The pitcher, I'll use for water or tea, and I had to get the matching platter too. The bottom of the tea pot holds a tea light to keep your tea warm as you serve it.

Here is the same pitcher and platter, but with my new latte mugs. We used them for soup the other day too, and they were the perfect size.

Here are some random serving pieces I got. Good thing I like to entertain! I have already used most of these!

I found this pot, which I loved. I also found these blown eggs that were hand painted, and just amazing. The eggs are real, and since I have tried making real blown eggs myself...they are a pain...I was amazed by the detail and beauty of the designs on them. I don't love the ficus they are on...maybe next year I will get a bare branch and paint it white to hang the eggs from...but I didn't have time this year.

I found these painted wooden eggs. I just loved the bright colors. I don't know why I took a picture of them in this bowl...but in a glass bowl, they looked really cute.

This was one of my best finds. This is an authentic and antique Polish bread or dough bowl. They used to knead the bread in these large wooden bowls. I haven't found the perfect spot or way to display it in the house...but I'm working on it. Any suggestions??? The store I bought this in was crazy. They had all kinds of Nazi helmets and gear. Kind of odd seeing that stuff. Sometimes I find it hard to believe that we are living in a country which we at war with a few decades ago. The Nazi memorabilia kind of creeped me out.

Well that's it! Now I need a new piece of furniture to hold all my new stuff! Actually, I have most of my pieces out on baker's rack and above my cabinets on display. I love the color they provide. Even though I brought home plenty of stuff...I hope I get to go back once or twice before I leave Germany. Great experience, great fun, with great friends!

Weinnacht Market - Heidelberg

2008-04-06T09:07:00.008+02:00

John and I were able to get away one day and see one of the famous Christmas markets in the area. There are held outdoors with a ton of vendors and food. So much to see and do. There are gluhwein stands all over to help keep you warm. You can keep the unique mug that the gluhwein comes in. The gluhwein is a seasonal wine that the Germans make and sell. It's like a spiced wine served warm. It really does help brave the cold of the outdoor markets.

Heidelberg is just gorgeous. The walkplatz (the area in the center of town that is pedestrian traffic only, it is filled with shops, restaurants, etc..) is surrounded by old churches, a castle, and a famous bridge. But the most exciting stop on the trip was here! If you know John and I...you know that we are dying with no Starbucks close by. We hit the jackpot that day...two venti mochas bitte!

Here is a view of the walkplatz shooting back toward the castle on the hill. The actual castle is hidden behind the buildings.

This picture is of the most famous church in Heidelberg. It is called the Church of the Holy Spirit. You can read about the history of if by clicking on the link. It was constructed in the 1400's The inside of the churches is amazing. Unfortunately you must come see for yourself since no photography is allowed inside. The churches still have congregations and as you tour them, you will still see people worshiping inside.

This is another old church on the walkplatz. It is Roman Catholic and I wasn't able to find out much on the Internet about it. The inside was amazing.

The Germans are famous for these windmill type Christmas decorations that spin when the candles are lit. Here is a huge replica in the Heidelberg walkplatz. Below it is another gluhwein stand...you see one about every 100 ft.

Recap of Christmas 2007

2008-04-06T08:21:00.018+02:00

So I promised to go back and fill in our holidays and trips with pictures...so here they are! Only 4 months later!!!

Caden loves Santa. This was his first year to actually wanting to see Santa from a distance of closer than 500 ft. He was so excited to tell Santa all that he wanted and really gave Santa #1 an earful at the squadron Christmas party. Santa came in on a C-21 and the kids thought that was so cool! Caleigh did not think Santa was cool...she had her head buried in Dad's shoulder the whole time Santa was around...maybe next year!

Here is Caden at his school Christmas party. Santa #2 showed up and Caden took the opportunity to tell Santa what he wanted again...just in case he didn't get it the first time.

Then the crisis happened! Caden realized he had forgotten to tell Santa that he had to have High School Musical 2!!! We hit the commissary that afternoon, and guess who happened to be there? Santa #3!!! Whew...crisis averted. By the way...this is the best looking Santa of them all!

Caden had a school program where they all sang a few Christmas songs. It was cute...but none of the pictures of him on stage turned out. Here are Caden and Caleigh at the program.

Here's Caleigh at the children's Christmas party put on by John's squadron.

Here a family picture from the party.

We went to the Christmas market in downtown Kaiserslautern with Caden's class for a field trip. The have these carnival type rides for the kids. The kids loved them even though they looked fairly unsafe!

This was at the K-Town Christmas market and I thought it was gorgeous. It's a hand carved nativity scene that was huge. I'm not sure the picture does it justice.

Here is goofy Caden at his Christmas party for school.

This was Caleigh's haul at Christmas. It consisted of mostly Bitty Baby stuff. The girl loves her dolls and princesses!

Caden wanted a drum set so bad! Luckily for Mom & Dad...Santa found an electronic set with headphones!!!

Here is Caleigh on Christmas morning...wild hair and all! She pushed around that stroller for hours...she still does. I bet the thing has logged 100 miles since then!

My Legacy

2008-04-03T16:55:00.002+02:00

Long time no post!!! Life got crazy as usual, and I decided to ditch the computer for a while. It was a nice break...but time to come back.

Look for a brain dump in the next week or so of all my trips, family goings on, and more! Lots of pictures...I promise Mom!

But here's what's been on my mind this week...my legacy. Anyone who knows me, knows that I find comfort, solace, and meaning in music. Thankfully there are talented songwriters who are able to give a voice to some of the things I have flooding my mind on a daily basis. I only wish I was so eloquent to find such perfect words and melodies. Some may find the play list on my site annoying...but for me, this site wouldn't be complete without it. I promise to update it more to reflect my thoughts at the time. This weeks selections are Legacy by Nichole Nordeman, World by Five for Fighting, and Waitin on the World to Change by John Mayer.

So I'm reading a book by Robin McGraw called Inside My Heart, and she asks two questions in the beginning....Who are you? & What is your purpose? Do you have an answer? I had to put the book down and think for a while. I got through the first question pretty fast. I am a wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, niece, granddaughter, friend, child of God, etc... These are things that we can't necessary change or have much control over. They are our roles in life. I suppose you could get really deep in discovery of who you are...but for me, these define me best. I knew the second question might be deep...so I'll keep answer one simple.

So what is your purpose? Do you have any idea? In order to answer that question, I had to ask another question to myself. What do you want your legacy to be? Wow! Thought about that lately? If you die tomorrow...what will others say about you? What would you want them to say about you? Thank you Nichole for finding words that seem all to trapped inside, but are screaming to get out. I hope people say that I was a good person who loved God and her family with all her heart. But that's a given...for me anyway. But then it hit me...my legacy and purpose here on this ever cynical and crazy earth is to serve other people. I thought it was going to be deep and lengthy...but my legacy and purpose is servanthood. Now for how I got to such a simple answer...

I think we all feel at times that we are only one person and cannot make a difference in such a big and crazy world...but I've thrown that notion out the window and have decided that I AM one person and I can do a lot. Most of the things I have been busy with lately are volunteer opportunities that I have been pursing over here. Most are military by nature...since my German still pretty much stinks! I'll touch more on those ventures in the upcoming posts. But my point it this....what if we all found something or some cause we were passionate about? What if we tried to make a difference? What if every one on this earth put other's needs above their own and focused on goodwill? I know...now I'm just being silly. But I refuse to raise my children and teach them that situations are hopeless and they cannot bring about change. While at points in my life, I do have thoughts that we are all just wasting our time, I honestly do not believe that!

So do it!!! Find your purpose, your passion, your legacy! Then go create change. Get others excited about what you are doing. You may be only one person, but you are one person who can bring good and make change! A life lived without purpose and passion, isn't much of a life to live.

So in the wonderful words of Nichole...
"I want to leave a legacy.
How will they remember me?
Did I choose to love?
Did I point to You enough to make a mark on things?"
I sure hope so...

"What kind of world do you want?
Think anything!!!
Let's start at the start.
Build a masterpiece.
Be careful what you wish for...history starts now!"
-World by Five for Fighting

When the Sun Breaks Through

2007-12-18T22:31:00.001+01:00

I have to admit that this move to Germany has been tough, and that's putting it mildly. I'm always one that makes lemonade when I get handed lemons...but frankly this situation felt a lot bigger than lemons. I quit answering emails for a while because everyone was asking how cool it was and how lucky I was to get to live in a foreign country....why didn't I feel like that? I visited before and loved it, so why was it so hard? By the way, I have since learned that visiting some place and living there and not even close to the same thing. Was I getting older and more set in my ways? Was it the kid factor?

To top it off, we moved right as winter was beginning and there is little to no sun. Everyday is gray and overcast. You know the sun is shining up there somewhere, but you never see it. If you wake up at 8:00 am you can easily catch the sunrise, and if you are driving home at 4:30 pm you can watch it set! That's right...about 8-9 hours a day that aren't pitch black! My kids are so confused by this. Many people here get severely depressed in the winter time for this very reason. No wonder I was feeling so yucky!

I had so much to do around the house, but John and I decided to take the kids to a parents day out and hit one of the nearby Christmas Markets in Heidelberg (post & pictures will follow soon). It had turned cold and I was dreading freezing my rear off for a few hours while I looked at German knick knacks. The only thing motiating me was a day without the kids. But then this great thing happened....

THE SUN BROKE THROUGH!

It was visible all day and beating down on us. It was freezing outside...but it didn't matter. It was out all day and the clouds went away completely. I have not seen a day like this since we have been here. For the last 3 days, I have seen the sun everyday...maybe not all day, but I have seen in.

It got me thinking that this is what life is like. This gloom and doom that I was feeling was the clouds. They hung over me and prevented all my happiness from coming through. Then the clouds part and things don't seem so bad anymore. It's clarity. It's gaining perspective on where you were, where you are now, and where you are going. See the clouds will always pass eventually, and even when they are there, the sun is still there too. I may not always be able to see it, but it's there. It's in knowing that just like bad times, it won't last forever and the sun will shine again.

Not For the Faint of Heart...

2007-12-13T14:11:00.000+01:00

So this is my disclaimer...if you can't handle bodily function talk...don't read this post. I promise no pictures will be included in this post...that would just be wrong.

Let me start by telling you how weak of a stomach and how strong of a gag reflex I have. It's horrible. I always worried that when I became a mom I couldn't handle puke, poop, and other nasty things that can come from kiddos! To give you idea of just how weak my stomach is, I used to try to scoop dog poop in the yard when the kids would go out to play, but I would gag so bad that I usually ended up throwing up myself...pitiful, I know! However I solved that problem by getting those long handle scoopers, and my problem is solved.

They don't make long handle cleaner uppers for the kids however. If you have kids or are thinking about having kids, there are a few things that are certain. You child will at some point get sick, they will have explosive poop, and they will have projectile vomit. After two kids, the feeling bad and poop thing I have dealt with and been able to handle. But to this day, throw up still gets to me. If I see it or smell it, I'll be over the toilet myself.

Now let me tell you why my husband is the best husband and daddy ever. Most people say poop or throw up and the guys run the other way. Not John...he's mister hands on. We usually team up and one cleans up the kid while the other cleans up whatever else got nuked!

Last night Caleigh started running a fever. I could tell she wasn't feeling well, but there was no sign of an upset stomach. I let her have her milk (as usual)before bed...a decision I would soon regret. At about 4:00 am I heard her in her room crying and she was again running a fever. I put her in bed with us and went to give her some more Tylenol. She refused the Tylenol, which she rarely does, but I figured I would let it go and try again in a little bit. So John and I with Caleigh in between all try to get back to sleep when the sound begins. It's the worst sound in the world....the churning of the stomach and the heaving begins! All I can think is how our bed an everything around is about to be nuked. Before I can react or do anything, John (Mr. I Don't Wake Up For Anything)has Caleigh and is running to the bathroom as she throws up all down his back. This is one of the few times I am grateful for the wall to wall tile in our humble abode. As I go to begin the clean up in our room and bed, there is nothing! The bed was totally clean....a feat that I will never understand. Once I get to the bathroom, John has Caleigh over the sink and is calming her down and cleaning her up. Before I could finish running her bath (okay the real truth is I spent the next few minutes over the sink dry heaving myself), he had her striped down, cleaned up, and clothes in the washer!
What kind of dad does that??? Out of our puking incidents, John has played an active role in at least 95% of them! He's the best!

We think he is the best Daddy and husband ever!

This is why I'm hot....okay not really!

2007-12-05T21:11:00.000+01:00

Time for another You Tube video! This goes out to all our military friends who will think this is a hoot. For everyone else...maybe you guys will get a laugh too!

You know when our husbands all deploy and ship out to random desert like places....this is what they do. Clearly too much time on their hands....

Christmas Quiz

2007-12-05T08:53:00.000+01:00

So I had a friend send me this little getting to know you...Christmas style. Thought I would post and share!

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper definitely looks the best...but gift bags are so darn easy! I probably do an even mix of both.

2. Real tree or Artificial? I love the smell of a real tree, but I hate the mess and the fact that they are so scraggly these days. So I have a big pre-lit artificial one. But I do get a real wreath or light some candles so my house always smells like a Christmas Tree. I love that.

3. When do you put up the tree? Ideally Thanksgiving day or the day following, but it rarely happens that way.

4. When do you take the tree down? Again...ideally January 2nd...but it usually hangs around longer.

5. Do you like egg nog? Just a little bit

6. Favorite gift received as a child? Probably the Barbie Dreamhouse...I have never had a disappointing Christmas! I love all my gifts.

7. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes

8. Hardest person to buy for? John's family

9. Easiest person to buy for? Myself! And my kids of course!

10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail...but I might send out an electronic version too this year so everyone gets it on time. My cards will most likely be late since I have no idea where I can print them here and how long it will take them to mail to the states now....but they are coming people!

11 .Worst Christmas gift you ever received? I honestly can't think of a bad one off the top of my head.

12. Favorite Christmas movie? Polar Express

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? I sort of shop all year long, but probably seriously start in Sept.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Can't say that I have.

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Martha Washington's & sugar cookies with icing

16. Clear lights or colored on the tree? Clear...I like things simple. Clear lights on everything.

17. Favorite Christmas song? Little Drummer Boy

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Both have their advantages. I like being home, but to the holidays are better when we can spend them with as much family as possible, so if that means traveling, we usually do it. This year we are staying home.

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeers? Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, Rudolph...with my hands tied behind my back....to easy!

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? An angel

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas morning

22 . Most annoying thing about this time of year? The hustle and bustle. We have so many parties and social events, that it's sometimes too much! I'd like it to be less stressful and crazy.

23. Favorite ornament, theme or color? Crystal...I love the look of the lights hitting crystal and being reflected.

24. How many Christmas tress do you have in the house? 3

25. Do you decorate outside? Usually, but not since we are in Germany. We have a lot of outdoor decor usually!

26. Favorite for Christmas dinner? Steak and shrimp

27. What do you want for Christmas this year? Some new clothes. I'd like and iPod too.

28. Who is most likely to respond to this? Annie

29. Who is least likely to respond to this? Gina, because she's one of the busiest people I know!

We Elfed Ourselves!

2007-12-03T13:00:00.000+01:00

This was kind of funny and cute! The kids loved it! Try to do your own family!

http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1146522741

Why I love Kellie Pickler

2007-12-01T22:58:00.000+01:00

I found this video and couldn't resist. I'll be honest...I like the girl. She's cute and she seems very real. With that said, she's not the sharpest knife in the drawer, but she can laugh at herself. She came from humble beginnings and worked hard to make something of herself.... But I love how smart I feel when I see videos like this. I too am geographically challenged...but this was too funny!

Christmas is coming and this year I'm ready......sort of.....

2007-12-01T22:38:00.000+01:00

I love this time of year....I really do! While this is usually one of the most stressful and busy times for me, I love it. Only this year I don't feel so busy or stressed. Don't let this fool you by thinking that I have it all together and am ready for Christmas.....I'm not. My house is not decorated, most presents are bought, but not all. My Christmas cards might become New Years or even Valentine's cards, but I don't care! I'm going to enjoy this time of year.

Today marks the day when all the big Christmas Markets start in Germany. This is one of the best things that the Germans do. These markets are huge and amazing. As I visit some over the next few weeks, I will be sure to try to snap a few pictures. The German's love Christmas, although their traditions vary some from ours. Many Germans don't even put up a Christmas tree until Christmas Eve. Know what that means??? I am ahead of schedule! The fact that my house isn't decorated is just keeping with German tradition. Okay, so I didn't plan it that way, but it makes me feel better.

Tonight was also the first day that the Germans turn on their Christmas lights. It's like the village was dark yesterday and tonight on my way home, most homes and the entire village square was lit up with Christmas lights and decoration. It just made me feel good.

The kids picked up an angel from the angel tree today, and I let them buy for their angel. Friday I gave blood for wounded soldiers from the desert. This time of year makes me want to give. It makes me want to be a better person. I also find that when I get down and depressed, I feel great giving or doing something to help someone out. It would be nice to think that I could carry this out 365 days a year, but I'm realistic and I know that I don't always act that way. But this time of year it comes easy... Perhaps the spirit of St. Nick is alive and enters our hearts this time of year. I'd like to think that anyway.

Making a House a Home....

2007-11-11T10:35:00.000+01:00

So many of you have been asking about our house and how it looks. I've been dreading and trying to put off sending and posting pictures, but here goes! Houses here are hilarious. There is very little "design" to them. They are all made from concrete blocks and then stuccoed. They are square boxes, with a little modern touch....or so it seems. Nothing says home like a white metal front door....

The insides are cold and white....very white! Every wall is stark white, and I can't paint! At first I felt like I was in a hospital....but I just decided to cover as much of the walls as possible. John has been hanging stuff for weeks for me! By the way, hanging stuff on a cement wall is difficult! I don't have any after pictures to post now...but I'll take some soon. Everything is tiled. 3 freaking floors of all tile! Not a shred of carpet, however our stairs are made out of some type of wood. Pictures are of the stairs, the dining room, and the living room...
Moving on to the bathrooms…there is no counter.....only a free standing sink. Did I mention that the houses have zero closets or storage space? You have to buy cabinets or "shrunks" to store clothes, shoes, towels, toiletries, etc... Everything in the bathroom is tiled....the walls, everything. Again it's white, and I haven't figured out how to hang anything on tile. For now I put up some curtains to add some color. The bathrooms are large...but a waste of space since there are no cabinets or storage areas. Ikea is your best friend here to get cheap cabinets and storage solutions.

Now for the kitchen….the kitchen used to be one of my favorite places. I love to cook and entertain. I about passed out when I saw the kitchen, which is surprisingly large in German standards. I have my cabinets full and still have 4 boxes left to unpack of kitchen items....guess it's back to Ikea to find a place for those. First let's start with the German fridge.....but let's be honest and call it what it really is....a mini fridge. That's right; it's no bigger than a mini fridge. However, I would rather have a mini fridge...at least it gets cold. The German fridge is cool at best....so I only put juice boxes or stuff that doesn't need to be refrigerated in it. What a waste of space. I'm thinking of turning it off and using it as a cabinet....it would make for a better use of space that way. We were issued a small American type refrigerator that has a small freezer. Space is still very limited....so I have to take small trips to the store every 2-3 days.....no stocking up on anything! Next, the oven! I love to cook full meals in my oven. Not anymore! You can barely fit a 9 x 13 baker in it! There is only one shelf and it takes about 30-45 mins. to heat up completely. It's more like a convection oven because it basically blows hot air around. My sink (that's right, only one) is super small. No more running a sink of soapy water and washing dishes. And no more garbage disposal!!! Whaaaa!

But after complaining about everything that this house is not, there are great aspects of it. It is very big and we have lots of room for everyone to have a space of their own. The house is new, so no worries of a bunch of stuff breaking. While the house is stark...it also is fairly easy to clean. The other thing I learned, and probably the most important, is that this house is our home. Not because of what it offers, but because the people I love the most are all here with me. The house is filled with our stuff, and our love, and that to me makes it home.

Halloween - Trick or Treat??

2007-11-01T20:41:00.000+01:00

The kids hit like 3-4 Halloween parties this year, so we got a lot of use out of those costumes!

Caden was a Blue Power Ranger...specifically the SPD version....had to be that one!

Caleigh was a Harvest Witch....now I told myself I wouldn't ever let my kids dress as witches or devils or anything liek that...but this costume was so cute I couldn't resist. I told her she was a Halloween Princess and she liked that. She still pulls out this dress and wants to wear the "Princess" dress. Can't say the same for the hat. The picture you see was the only 30 seconds in which she allowed us to put it on her head. From them on we got the stiff arm and a stern "Don't want it!"

Here's a few pictures of the kiddos!

The Start of Something New...

2007-10-25T15:42:00.000+02:00

Welcome to my first ever blog! This marks the start of a new time for me. A new assignment, a new place, a new house & a new language!!!

I realized that there is so much going on in my head and I never get the chance to get it down on paper....until now! So welcome to my head and the many wonderful things that flood my mind!

I guess I should thank my dear friends Michelle & Jennie (the expert bloggers) for their inspiration for this.

Hope you enjoy!