Weekend Happenings...

Last Friday was our Fall Educator's Convention. Normally we attend Ohio's convention (close to beautiful Amish country), but this year's schedule wasn't working out quite right for that. Instead, we headed for Indianapolis, where we were able to see lots and lots of friends and aquaintances. We had a wonderful day (did anybody say 'Pasta Bar'???) and came back refreshed and having gained new insights into the educational process. Several years back, ACE went from a two-day format to a one-day schedule. Since I really didn't want Greg to take a day off just to watch the kids, I began to think about a sitter. My grandma called and was coming up for mom's birthday, so she agreed to come a day earlier and watch all the kids. She did an amazing job! Although I won't share her age (that would mean certain death for me), her oldest child is in his mid-60's. I know some grandmothers who are WAY younger, and won't hardly ever watch their grandkids cause they "just can't handle the stress"! I know I am blessed because the grandparents on both sides of our family are so helpful and always willing to lend a hand. Thanks Grandma! See you this weekend!

Mom and I were laughing one day about how men always dream about new toys, expensive ones...cars, boats, etc. Mom said, "You know, the only thing that I really want is one of those grapevine trees for my porch." She's always been more of a giver than a taker, in fact, she's not a taker at all, so I was really happy to know what she actually wanted! I had no idea, though, that these things could be so difficult to find! It's like they are everywhere until you want one...
Anyway, I finally found one. Now I just have to locate white lights with brown cord. Any ideas short of ordering online???

What ever happened to the adorable little thing he used to be? LOL! Ryan is definitely growing up, and the parenting challenges are ever changing. Dr. Dobson is becoming my best friend!

I just want to say a few words about my mom...
My mom is an incredible person. From her willing sacrifices that I witnessed as a child, to the selfless acts that continue to flow from her life today, she is one in a million. Although I grew up in a parsonage where money was not growing on trees, I never felt poor. We didn't run out to the mall to buy our Easter dresses, but mom made sure each stitch was lovingly sewn, sometime before midnight on Saturday night!
Throughout my years as a child and teenager, mom never allowed her career to come before her husband and children. She didn't fall into the "work more...get more stuff...work more..." mentality that many in healthcare do. She taught me that one's children are her first responsibility, and not the responsibility of daycare or a babysitter. Most of my friends would have probably labeled my mom "strict". I wasn't allowed to do many of the things my friends did. I went to a small, Christian school from grades 1-12. She taught me that one can both "protect" and "prepare" their children. We were "sheltered", and that wasn't a bad thing. You have no idea how thankful I am for that today. The "eyes in the back of mom's head" kept me from sooooo much. I didn't have regrets to carry into marriage or adulthood because my parents were "strict". I am thankful for "strict"! :) Even though I'm "all grown up", the influence of my mom is still huge in my life. She is a wonderful example for my kids - I never have to worry that they are going to see or hear things that I wouldn't approve of when they are with her. Thanks for all you are to me, mom! Love you!

Here's the funny story behind this pic...Kaitlynn received these glasses as a prize in Jr. Church Sunday morning. When it came time for mama to open gifts, Kaitlynn presented her with these glasses wrapped in the sheer, sticky plastic that had previously covered the top of mom's laptop. Kaitlynn said, "Mama, these are for you for the beach!" Awwww, how thoughtful of you, Kaitlynn!

One of the pretty gifts mom received...

Allison's expressions are so cute. Here she is sharing a moment with her mama...