Oh....The Possibilities!

Mani-pedi

2012-02-19T19:33:00.000-05:00

Cyrenity has been counting down to her friend Emily's bday party for 2 weeks! :)

It was at a nail salon!!!!

She got to get a manicure AND a pedicure!

SO much fun!!!

She now wants to have a Pretty Princess birthday party....hmmmm..We'll see about that..LOL!

Inside Out

2012-02-19T19:27:00.000-05:00

Zion dressed himself for church today..he is getting good at matching..just need to teach him about turning his shirt inside out if the tag is on the outside..LOL!!!

We didn't notice til he was already home, so it was inside out pretty much all day..hahahaha!!

Valentines Day!

2012-02-18T21:37:00.000-05:00

This Valentines Day we made things a little more special ;)

I made Red Velvet Cupcakes for the first time for Bobby and the Kids!

They turned out pretty good and looked pretty..really deep red :)

When the kids got home from school we took some around the neighborhood to all their friends..

When we got back home these were waiting on the table for them :)

They were SO excited!

After that Bobby came home and we got ready to go...We actually got to go out to a really nice dinner..we got a gift certificate on Christmas for a steakhouse..Bobby was in Heaven!!! ;) It was so nice to get out with great friends and my husband..a night out to be adults and date one another again ;) So fun!

A very nice Valentines Day!!!! :)

Big Hams!

2012-01-31T00:09:00.000-05:00

Tried to take some pictures of the kids the other day...this is what I got..Rarely can get a serious picture from them anymore..LOL!

Uncle Tom and Aunt Joanna

2012-01-21T15:44:00.000-05:00

Last week Uncle Tom and Aunt Joanna came for a visit, Uncle Tome taught Wednesday and Sunday at church and Thursday for Mens study and Aunt Joanna did a womens day conference on Saturday and Childrens ministry meeting on sunday morning...It was a very Full visit! ;)

Friday they were able to come hang out with us :) They came over to our house and had lunch hung out with the kids and had dinner and then watched Dolphin Tale...It was SO much fun! The kids really loved having them over :)

Aunt Joanna, Zion, Zayden and Uncle Tom

Zayden, Uncle Tom, and Zion watching Mars Needs Moms while we waited for Cyrenity and Logan to get home :)

Playing around with Aunt Joanna!

Logan and Uncle Tom

Aunt Joanna and I

Sunday the church had a fellowship potluck at the Holdens

Zion, me, Aunt Joanna, Zayden, Bobby, Uncle Tom, Logan and Cyrenity

The Barreras and Aunt Joanna and Uncle Tom

Here is a picture of all the families here from Living Water (minus Patrick and Matthew) with Uncle Tom and Aunt Joanna

Sunday Night they invited me over to Cracker Barrel along with Tom and Jeanne...The last time to see them before they headed back to Cali :)

Me and Uncle Tom

Aunt Joanna, Me and Uncle Tom

Their time here went really fast..but it was So nice to see them and get to spend time with them. :)

Drama, Drama, Drama

2012-01-09T19:41:00.000-05:00

Zayden started a Drama class in his preschool, SO CUTE! :)

It's mainly to teach them how to treat one another and show their feelings correctly and things like that, but they do it in a fun way and they will have a little play at the end of the class :)

Soooo...right now they are learning to express their feelings and recognize others feelings with no words, just facial expressions :) Here he is practicing!

Sad

Happy!

MAD

Surprised!

Silly ;)

Serious

Scared!

Worried

So very cute! He seems to be having fun! :)

New Do's!

2012-01-01T21:36:00.000-05:00

Since school starts up again next week, we thought it'd be good to give the kids all new "do's" to send them back to school with! :) Sooooo...we called our favorite hair stylist to see if she had any openings..and we were in luck! She did! LOL

Here is Logan before...

Logan after :) SO handsome!

Cyrenity Before...

Cyrenity After..

We compromised...she wanted to cut ALL her hair off (a bob) and we wanted to keep it long..so we compromised with an in between cut :)

Zayden before..LOL

His doesn't look so bad, but he needed a buzz so we could get all the medicines in his hair again, he has alot of sores on his head right now :(

Zayden after..

You can't really tell...but he is working toward a mohawk ;) and he is VERY excited about that..he keeps asking me if I can tell..LOL

Zion before

Zion after :)

Bobby didn't want to be left out..so he jumped in the chair before everything got cleaned up...Very handsome..LOL

Thank you to the best hair stylist! I can see my children's beautiful faces again!! :)

And my husband looks pretty good too ;)

The Best Gift

2012-01-01T21:14:00.000-05:00

I keep forgetting to post this....

Every Christmas Eve we read the Christmas story and let the kids open one present..A Jesus ornament, to teach them what the Best Gift really is at Christmas :)

This year they were really excited to hang the past years ornaments on the tree...I look forward to the year our entire tree is filled with Jesus ornaments! We date each one so it will be neat to look back and remember when they received each one :)

Here is a close up of this years (the date is already on it this time ;)

The birth of a child...the hope of the world.

Logans favorite part was the crystal in the star...He thinks it's a diamond! :)

Super Heroes!

2011-12-29T17:02:00.000-05:00

These are THE cutest super heroes I know! :)

They got these capes and masks for Christmas, one of their favorite gifts! :) They are always having us tie their blankets around them to make them super heroes, so they were SO excited to get Real capes!

It's so fun watching them run around the apartment yelling out Super Hero to the rescue! :)

Fun Times!

2011-12-27T17:35:00.000-05:00

Bobby was able to take yesterday off, so we spent a day at home playing games and trying out the toys the kids got, watching the Smurfs and playing outside :) The kids kept us entertained! They are So funny, I say they get it from Bobby ;)

Zion kept pretending he was crashing, he wouldn't get up til we made a big deal about him falling (Are you okay Zion!?!?!) LOL!!

Cyrenity in her new helmet! :)

Zayden's new Helmet!

Zion's New Helmet and Scooter

He fell again! LOL..this time I pulled out the camera and he opened his mouth like he was screaming, but nothing came out, he was just doing it for the camera...hahahahahaha! Crazy Kid!!!

Handsome Boy!

Cyrenity and Logan...a rare picture ;) LOVE IT!

Daddy's little princess ;)

Love this picture! He is ALL Bobby :)

Bobby and I :)

Cyrenity...I've accepted it..my kids are All Bilderback, they see a camera they stick out their tongue! LOL

Action shot ;)

GQ ;)

Loved spending time together...Lots of fun!!!! :)

No more training wheels!!!

2011-12-27T17:14:00.001-05:00

Zayden rides his bike WITHOUT training wheels now!

He is very proud of himself!!!
I can't believe how quickly he is growing! He is a year behind logan in learning to ride without training wheels...but that's okay with me! lol They all have Bobby's daredevil side in them, he is already trying to jump the ramps!!!!!! Oh my! Maybe I will keeep Zion's training wheels on til he is 10! ;)

New Jammies from Oma! :)

2011-12-27T16:59:00.003-05:00

All the kids loved opening their new jammies from Oma..they couldn't wait to put them on when we got home Christmas night! I had to get a picture of them all yesterday morning...So cute!

Christmas 2011! :)

2011-12-26T16:01:00.001-05:00

We Had a Blessed Christmas this year...

It was nice and relaxing and I just found myself sitting back and taking it all in....

Looking at my nieces and nephews and how quickly they have grown....they are getting to be such awesome young men and woman and I am blessed by them! But it was a reminder of how fsast time flies and how much i need to hold on to the time i have with my kids, cuz if i look away for a second they will have grown up already!!!

We are so blessed and thankful for all we have and the giftsGod has given us!

The Mitten

2011-12-20T23:24:00.000-05:00

Cyrenity has been looking forward to this night for weeks now ;) She got to be a snowflake in her Christmas play, the Mitten. She was really excited!

Here she is ready to get going :)

We didn't have great seats..I got lucky with this shot..I really couldn't see her thru the whole play :( but i could HEAR HER SING! lol

She did a great job! We were all very proud! :)

A fun family night out! (she thinks she is a Star now..lol..can you see it in her pose? hahaha)

Gingerbread House

2011-12-20T23:18:00.000-05:00

This is the first year we all sat together and made one as a family :)

It was lots of fun! The kids were SO excited! Logan was shaking he was so excited (lol)

It was a little bigger than i've don before, so it was a little harder to get it to hold together, we probably should of let it dry a little longer first, but the kids were too excited to wait ;)

They were so proud! They did an awesome job! :)

First Project!

2011-12-15T10:30:00.000-05:00

Logan did his first project this week! He did an awesome job! HE worked really hard :)

They each had to do a How To project..and then teach the kids in their class How To do whatever it was...He chose How To Make A Paper Airplane...He did 7 steps on the board and then took paper to school and taught the kids...He was SO proud of himself! :)

Cast OFF!!!!!

2011-12-15T10:28:00.000-05:00

Tuesday we went to get Cyrenity's cast off! She has been counting down for weeks!!!

She was SO excited!

HEre is her last picture with it on ;)

Taking it off was a little bit traumatic :( Her arm had a bad reaction to the cast and the blood from the surgery had stuck to the cast..so it was a little bit hard coming off and her arm was so raw and irritated :( But it came off and that was Great! :)

Her arm healed nicely! See the 2 rods? Yuck..we say she has robot parts in her arm..LOL

After we got home, she soaked her arm in the bathtub!!!! That was SO needed, 8 weeks in a cast, her arm needed that bath! LOL She has to wear a sling for 3 weeks now, but at least the cast is off!

Can you see her excitement ;)

She hates how her arm looks right now..it grosses her out and she says she feels embarassed by it...but it's not too bad...as it heals it is looking a little more red and yucky, but it's healing so that is good :)

Her battle wounds ;)

She is a trooper! So glad this is almost done! =D

Zion's Pj's

2011-12-15T10:17:00.000-05:00

Grandma, Papa and Oma sent Zion Bday money...Look what we found when we went shopping!

If you look closely, you'll see it....There are penguins (and polar bears) on these Pj's!!!!!

He was SO excited! Thanks Grandma, Papa and Oma! He got some cool shirts too! :)

Zion's "Tweet Tweet" Party

2011-12-06T10:16:00.001-05:00

Zion turned 3 on Thursday, so we celebrated on Saturday with the Barrera's "Tweet Tweet" Style! ;)

Zion calls penguins "tweet tweets", he LOVES penguins! So We decorated in Happy Feet 2

He was SO excited!

We just love him to death! He is such a joy to be around! Our family is truly blessed with him these last three years...we look forward to all God has planned for our little man!

Opening his gifts..

Nathaniel found out he loved penguins, so he gave him this penguin stuffed animal...Zion LOVED it!!!

Woody pj's and plate and cup from grandma and grandpa

Zion and Logan

Make a Wish!

Say Cheese!

Aunt Heidi made these ADORABLE cupcakes! They even had icecream inside of them!!!!! So COOL! ;)

Zion and Nathaniel

Zion, Aunt Heidi, and Destinee

Gabe and Zion enjoying Zion's new "Tweet Tweet" (Video to come later ;)

Getting ready for bed...in his new pj's :)

He sleeps with his new penguin every night :)

Since these ones make noise he has to turn them off and set them on his window before bed...now he has a big "tweet tweet" a little one and one to sleep with at night...He's in Heaven! ;)

OH! plus he has some on his closet!!!!! What a lucky little boy! :)

We love you little Mister! :)

Thanksgiving

2011-11-28T19:13:00.006-05:00

Cyrenity's Surgery

2011-10-30T20:31:00.002-04:00

Cyrenity went into surgery at about 9:15am on friday and got out about 11:40 i think...

It was only supposed to last about an hour...doctor came across a few complications, but all in all it went well and hopefully will heal well now! :)

Cyrenity before surgery...she was Really brave!!! She got to take her doll in with her and when she came out they had given her baby a pink cast just like her, she thought that was really cool! :)

After surgery, at home and resting....the first night was a little bit rough but she is doing really good now...still on medication, but not very much pain at all :)

Her little elephant (crystal) we got her for being so brave :) We saw the big blue eyes and reminded us of her..so we had to get it for her! Too cute :)

Holly Fork Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-29T22:52:00.005-04:00

Wednesday was Cyrenity's fieldtrip to a pumpkin patch...This is my first fieldtrip that i have been able to go to. Finally teachers who let me bring Zion along! :)

Cyrenity really wanted me to go to this one and when we found out she was having surgery friday I made sure i was able to go...I made sure we had a good, fun trip before surgery ;)

Cyrenity

Cyrenity and Zion (it was VERY sunny! lol)

Learning all about different pumpkins and gourds that grow on the Holly Fork farm :) Our favorite was the apple gourd, they are REALLY cool! (I forgot to get a picture of it, but it looks like a giant green apple!)

Going on the hay ride, i think this was her favorite!

A beautiful day and a very fun trip! =)

Walk Now for Autism Speaks 2011

2011-10-03T17:58:00.007-04:00

This was our 3rd year at the Walk...We so enjoyed being a part.

Love this picture! The kids were SO excited to have their own team shirts this year! I love how much they love being a part of the team...they have been telling their teachers and friends at school for weeks now how they get to go walk for autism :)

Barrera Family

Kara and Shyvon

Norton girls :)

Jenice and Caleb!

He is why we walk! Love you Gabriel!

RoCkAuTiSmNOW!

"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.." Proverbs 31:8a

Our Little Trooper

2011-09-07T23:01:00.003-04:00

We took our first trip to the ER tonight....well the first trip for an injury, we have been to the ER before for illnesses, but never for an injury...

He fell off a chair and hit his head, split it open pretty bad, bled a WHOLE lot...Bobby has a picture of the cut, but it grossed me out so I am not about to post it..just take my word for it, it was deep! Required 5 stitches!

Every one of our kids was screaming and crying though, so that did not help me keep my cool ;)..I am so grateful that our neighbor was willing to help me clean him up enough to get him in the car and to the hospital and Very thankful for Heidi and John coming and getting our other 3 kids so I could stay focused on Zion :) Bobby was able to meet me there too..I am SO glad, don't know if I could have held him down all alone...HE IS STRONG! lol The Dr. said "he has a career in horror films in the future with those lungs" HA! But he was a brave little boy..he did awesome!

Love you little man!!! =)

Twas the Night Before School~adapted from the book by Natasha Wing

2011-09-06T13:38:00.002-04:00

'Twas the night before school,
And as they prepared,
The children were excited
And a little bit scared.

They tossed and They turned
About in their beds
As visions of school supplies
Danced in their heads.

Erasers and crayons
And pencils galore
Were stuffed in their backpacks
And set by the door.

their outfit were hung
On the doorknob with care,
Knowing that school
Soon would be there!

In the morning it came -
School starts today!
Would the teacher be nice?
Would they still get to play?

their faces were all washed,
their teeth were brushed white,
they posed for their pictures,
With eyes sparkling bright!

They grabbed their backpacks
And hopped into the car
And dashed off to the school,
Good thing it's not far!

They let go of mommy's hand
And then walked down the hall
And heard mommy promise
That she would not bawl!

The teacher then greeted
Each one with a smile
And invited the students
To stay for awhile.

The room was all filled
With books, colors and toys,
Such wonderful things
For all girls and boys!

The children were playing
And as happy as could be,
When they happen to look
And see their mommy,

And what to their wondering
Eyes should appear
But a very sad mommy
Who was holding back tears!
Her nose - so sniffy,
Her eyes - red and wet!
This was the saddest goodbye
They had ever seen yet!

They run to their mommy
On the magical rug
And then sent her away
After one final hug!

they wave to their mom
From the door of the school,
"Don't cry Mommy!
School is COOL!"

1st day of school! :)

2011-09-06T13:28:00.006-04:00

Summer went WAY TOO QUICK!!!!

Here's all the kids headed out the door...Logan starts 3rd, Cyrenity starts 1st, and Zayden does his one more year of pre-K...They are getting so big!!!

We just love 'em to pieces!!! Praying they have a Wonderful year this school year!

Jamie Grace-Hold Me

2011-09-05T20:08:00.001-04:00

This Kid is Amazing! How Awesome to see a Child Worshiping Jesus so boldly!!!

2011-08-25T11:56:00.002-04:00

Jesus Calling

2011-08-23T00:42:00.001-04:00

I want you to experience the riches of your salvation: the Joy of being loved constantly and perfectly. You make a practice of judging yourself, based on how you look or behave or feel. When you feel discouraged, you tend to look inward so you can correct whatever is wrong.

Instead of trying to "fix" yourself, fix your gaze on Me, the lover of your soul. Rather than using your energy to judge yourself, redirect it to praising Me. Remember that I see you clothed in My rigtheousness, radiant in My perfect Love.

Ephesians 2:7-8; Hebrews 3:1; Psalm 34:5

**Excerpt from the devotion for July 13th from Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

Taking New Steps

2011-08-17T22:38:00.003-04:00

Matthew left for college today ='(

So yesterday the kids and I stopped by to say good bye...It's crazy to think that he is old enough to go to college, but for him to be moving away is even crazier! The kids are gonna miss him alot! Zion kept saying, I said bye to Matthew :( And Zayden asked me how come he had to move, why couldn't he just come live with us..LOL

At least he isn't too far and will come back for visits..plus he's got skype so i'm sure we'll be seeing him soon!

Crazy Socks!

2011-08-17T22:36:00.003-04:00

Last week was crazy Socks night! So much fun! I forgot to get pictures of the kids though!..LOL But the Crew Chiefs and Youth all got So into it...They ROCK!!! :)

GOO!

2011-08-09T00:53:00.003-04:00

My new phone has this app on it that can pull and stretch pictures in different directions...the kids LOVE it!

This picture of Zion cracked us up SO much I couldn't help but share it..LOL

Don't be scared...hahahahahha

Crazy Hair!

2011-08-09T00:43:00.002-04:00

It was crazy hair night last week for VBS! So fun! This is one of our kids favorite nights :)

So many of the teachers AND kids got into this time...Love it!

I so loved Dest's hair, she put wire in it to get it to stick out :)

So much fun! This week is crazy Socks! Cyrenity is Really looking forward to that! so fun!!!! :)

Praying for our Nation!

2011-08-06T12:19:00.004-04:00

~God Speak~

Revive us, Renew us, We want you to move through us

We want you to speak to us, in this place.

Jesus, free us, Spirit come and seize us

Open up the Heavens and show Your face.

You have been faithful to every nation

Father we need you to revive this generation!

God speak to us, in this place as we call upon Your name

Here and now, send Your power, let our hearts be changed forever!

God speak to us!

Spirit fall upon us!

Shane and Shane~The One You Need

2011-08-04T10:57:00.003-04:00

"The chief goal of us as parents and as families is to impart the truth of scripture and the truth that Jesus is real and alive...'The One You Need' captures the essence of this...a prayer of a father saying to his daughter, that no matter what you go through, i'm gonna mess up, i'm gonna not be the perfect dad at all times, but we do have a perfect Father...out of everything in life that comes your way that there is only One thing, ultimately, that you need, and that is Jesus in your life." ~Shane~

Chasing Lions

2011-07-30T13:04:00.001-04:00

"We're called to chase lions. There is an old aphorism 'No guts, no glory.' When we don't have the guts to step out in faith and chase lions, then God is robbed of the glory that rightfully belongs to Him."

-- Mark Batterson--

Night at the Diamond! :)

2011-07-28T12:32:00.004-04:00

Here we are at the Diamond for Autism Awareness! :)

Heidi got a group together to support Autism Awareness and Robbie and Marybeth's fundraiser! 34 ended up going! It was LOTS of fun!

The Holdens

Ms. Kim and some of the Barreras ;)

The youth and Mr. Keith came along :)

ZION :)

Desiree, John and family

Noah and Zayden

Cyrenity and Ms. Jenice...hahahaha!

Bobby and I taught Caleb a few new funny faces...your welcome Jenice! LOL

Nathaniel

Bobby and Zion

Caleb and Jenice

VBS night 2! :)

2011-07-28T12:10:00.004-04:00

Last night was so much fun again! :) I am really enjoying this VBS.

Zayden was soooo excited about snack tonight..LOL! They got to have pudding sundaes....so Zayden got to have his favorite...green jello! :)

The Turbo Tots!

Power Packed Patriots!

Go Speed Racers! =D

Hahahaha! Bobby CrAcKs me up!!!

We didn't get a picture of the Super Sonic Settlers...but here is Logan holding their flag :) So cute! He is really enjoying it this year too..and learning alot :) Of course, he has Ms. Jenice as his Crew Chief, so he is loving that! :)

turbo tots! playing games at vbs :)

2011-07-27T23:22:00.003-04:00

So cute! I LOVE their little cardboard cars!

I think they do too ;)

BlEsSeD Be YoUr NaMe!!!!

2011-07-22T18:24:00.001-04:00

This video is really neat..It's one of my most favorite songs anyway ;)...but these are all real people and just a glimpse of their stories...He Gives and takes away but my heart will truly say, BLESSED BE YOUR NAME!

REV IT UP!!!!!

2011-07-22T11:30:00.001-04:00

I have been SOOO looking forward to VBS this year!

We are doing Rev it up! Full throttle for God! this year, it's a race car theme and we just have had an awesome time preparing and planning for it!

Saturday we had a kickoff...tail gate style!

Our team flags! The power packed patriots, Super Sonic Settlers and Speed Racers :)

Beginning the night in prayer over our children and our crew and all the families...it is gonna be a great vbs with God on our side! :)

Ms. Kara and Destinee...Crew chiefs for the Speed Racers!

Ben and Caroline...love them..they are so much fun! ;)

The boys hanging out with Pastor Tom :)

Mr. Doug, crew chief for Power Packed Patriots and Ms. Kim head of the Pit Stop =D

I LOVE this picture!!!

Game time! This Game was sooooo much fun!...The kids and parents all played together...it got competitive, but all in fun ;)

They love Pastor Tom! It is so cool to have our Pastor be so involved with the kids ministry and truly love each one of our kids!

HAHAHAHAHA!

Fun group photo!

Ms. Jenice (crew chief for super sonic settlers) and Ms. Monique (co-leader of victory garage)

Heidi (race official) and Nathaniel (co-leader of iWorship)

Da Girlz! I just love these girls! It is neat to see them involved in the kid's ministry and want to be a part...with so many other things pulling at them, they still choose to set aside their time to join the kids and have fun with them and help lead their little hearts to Jesus :)

Wednesday night was the first night of VBS!!!! YAY!!!!!

The Grand Stand where we join together for iWorship :)

Pit Road where the Bible comes Alive!

The Pit Stop..of course, where God's kids go to get refueled! ;)

Corner Four....winning the race for Jesus!...game time with Mr. Robert ;)

Victory Garage....Ms. Monique and I lead the kids in craft time! :) we had lots of fun painting race cars with the kids...they got very creative..it was messy but lots of fun!!!

The Turbo Tots!

Ms. Katrina and Tiffany made some really cute cars for each of the toddlers to sit and listen to their lesson in and then after they went outside to do a race in them...I love the creativity..the kids really enjoyed them and they were just all adorable in their little cars!!!!!

Zayden came home talking about his car! He really enjoyed vbs! He is so looking forward to next week. It is really cool how everyone looks out for him...they didn't spend too much time outside and then at the Pit Stop their was a special snack for him very similar to everyone else's. Ms. Kim and Aunt Heidi made sure to find snacks he could enjoy along with the other Turbo Tots. We are blessed with a kid's ministry that loves on Zayden and takes care of his special needs! :)

As you can see....It's hard to NOT have fun with leaders like these LOL...Can you tell they're related!? HAHAHA

All in All it was a wonderful start to our VBS...I really enjoyed listening at the end to all the kids answering questions about what they had learned..they all really listened and learned what their crew chiefs had taught...it was really cool to hear them talking about how they are to trust Jesus and be kind to others and even be able to name the disciples from the lesson! Great job Crew Chiefs on teaching the lessons in a way that they remembered!!!! Can't wait to see what's in store for the next 4 weeks!!!!

Happy Birthday to BOBBY!!!!

2011-07-21T22:28:00.006-04:00

The kids have been looking forward to celebrating Bobby's bday :)

Logan hung the banner, Cyrenity put the tablecloth on, and i went to baking and cooking..,..ALL DAY...lol!

Zayden enjoyed celebrating daddy's birthday, he ate his dinner all gone to make sure that he would get his popsicle for dessert! ;)

Logan, drawing, his favorite hobby lately, he is getting pretty good too...Nathaniel has been a great help to him =)

Cyrenity was soooo excited to see Destinee was home from camp... she was only gone for about 5 days, but to Cyrenity it was an eternity! ;) Poor Dest was so tired though...she was a trooper for Uncle Bobby :)

Wanda was here in spirit for this picture ;) Junior is in awe of his uncle bobby..LOL

The boys (put the computer and phone down guys, your taking a picture...Rude! hahahaha)

Zion sharing his blanky with Dest since she was tired too...so cute! About a min. after taking this picture he brought out 2 more blankets...bigger for them, i guess this one was just too little for them to share.. :)

Cake time!

Gabriel led us all in a wonderful rendition of Happy Birthday to Bobby :)

Yummy chocolate chocolat chocolate cake...it is very rich! with chocolate ganache and everything,...bobby enjoyed it!

I also made these cupcakes...vanilla cupcakes with blackberry whip cream frosting...they were good..the frosting was a little sweeter than i expected though.

sorry, it's blurry, i know, but it was the only picture i got of Bobby and Heidi..lol

Lastly, me and Bobby....I had so much fun making this a special night for Bobby..good times with family and good food ;)

Looking forward to see what God has prepared next for you this year Babe...Love you lots!!!

Natalie Grant~Your Great NAME

2011-07-21T16:49:00.000-04:00

Everything

2011-07-18T10:37:00.000-04:00

God in my living
There in my breathing
God in my waking
God in my sleeping
God in my resting
There in my working
God in my thinking
God in my speaking
Be my everything
Be my everything
Be my everything
Be my everything
God in my hoping
There in my dreaming
God in my wathcing
God in my waiting
God in my laughing
There in my weeping
God in my hurting
God in my healing
Christ in me
Christ in me
Christ in me the hope of glory
You are everything
Christ in me
Christ in me
Christ in me the hope of glory
Be my everything
You are everything
Jesus, Everything

~Tim Hughes~

Baptisms

2011-07-17T20:59:00.004-04:00

Last weekend was the church baptisms...this was the first year we have been able to attend..and we were so excited to take part this year! :)

There was lots of good food, then we headed down to the water for worship and a devotion..

Zion "listening" to the devotion ;) he brought ALOT of the beach home with him..lol!

Then it was time for the baptisms! :)

Right before it started Logan turned to Bobby and I and asked if he could be baptized :) We of course, said yes. It was so exciting to see so many of the CCK kids step out into the water to declare their faith in Jesus!

All of those getting baptized were prayed over first...

Then they asked, who will be first? And Logan, literally, ran in! :) It was a very emotional time for us as we watched him be baptized! God is doing a work in his heart and it's neat to see it..slowly but surely..but still a great work! :)

Jairus was next, he is such an awesome kid..I know God has great plans for this guy!

Keith and Doug prayed over Logan..

Then Faith was baptized..she went out all by herself! :) Lani said if she was deciding to do this she would do it on her own and she walked out without even a worry, she was determined to show her love for Jesus! So cool! =D

This really made me cry! D'elisha and her children went out and were baptized together! They are such neat kids and D'elisha is so sweet! It was really cool to see them all go out together and see their excitement to share this with each other :)

Logan was so exccited he couldn't stop telling everyone about how he got baptized! :)

I am so glad to have gotten to go this year! We had lots of fun! We missed being able to share this day with our CCK leaders (ms. heidi and ms. jenice) but other than that it was a wonderful day. They ended with lots of fun games (we missed them since Zayden was very itchy, but we heard they were LOTs of fun! ;)

Love This Song!

2011-07-14T20:24:00.000-04:00

"DO EVERYTHING" ~ Steven Curtis Chapman

2011-07-11T13:31:00.000-04:00

All Smiles!

2011-07-02T00:12:00.002-04:00

They are such HAMS!

The second they see the camera, they strike a pose =)

Never serious...they each have such a silly personality...they keep me smiling!

Handsome Boys!

Final Pictures

2011-06-29T15:03:00.007-04:00

The last couple days with the Elkins....

On Tuesday we had a barbeque..played at the park and then jumped in the pool...then we went back to their room and celebrated Gia's Birthday...It was a very nice time of just spending time with each other :)

Logan hanging out with Uncle Mike as he barbequed..

Zion

Bathing Beauties..LOL

Zayden

ELIJAH! :)

Happy Birthday to You! :)

Say Cheese!

The girls enjoyed their cupcakes :)

"Can I have a cupcake please?"

Zion enjoyed his cupcake!

Wednesday we said goodbye :(

All the kids sitting together at once! ;)

We had lunch at Burger King and then hung out at our apartment til it was time for them to go...We can't wait to see them again...hopefully sooner than later! :) We so enjoyed our time together.

Washington D.C. (LOTS of pictures!!!)

2011-06-26T22:38:00.010-04:00

***Just to warn you: This is a LONG post ;)***

Our trip to D.C. started at 6am...so it was an ALL day trip..so this will be a very long post! ;)

It was lots of fun and the kids were such troopers as we dragged them quickly thru all of DC! They each had there favorites that they were looking forward to and I don't think they were dissapointed when they got to see it for themselves. It was special to spend our first trip to DC with Bre and Mike. We look forward to going back again :)

So as I said our trip started VERY early...don't the kids look excited to be woken up at 5:30am only to take a 3 hr. drive ;)

Our first stop was the White House...we were told we would have to wait to see it because President Obama was just arriving so they had it blocked off....so we waited :)

Here he is! ;) It was kind of cool to be that close...bummer we couldn't actually see him though...

The Front of the White House

The Back of the White House

Thinking of you Dest! ;)

The Washington Monument

Next we walked over to the Lincoln Memorial...here is what we saw/didn't see on our way ;)

NO reflecting pool! :( They are redesigning it...bummer!

Logan made friends with Squeakers...he said to tell Gabe "hello" ;)

Cyrenity was hurrying along...Mike was walking faster so she ran ahead to walk with him..she has been talking about getting to see Abraham Lincoln since we first mentioned going to DC :)

The Lincoln Memorial!

Yay! We are finally here Cyrenity! :)

The Capitol Building! LOL

I was looking forward to this :) Cyrenity did the jumping up and down for me ;)

Next stop...Air and Space Museum...Zaydens FAVORITE!

He enjoyed every minute of time spent in here! :) Getting to fly an airplane, sit in the cockpit and look at all the airplanes, the air force planes, i think were his favorite..but he really enjoyed it all! :)

Our future pilot!!! ;)

Zion really loved all the planes too...he was in awe :)

This was for you, dad ;)
The postal uniforms, when the first began flying the mail! :)

Next stop....The Natural History Museum....

Logan was looking forward to seeing the T-Rex! Just like in Night at the Museum...but he was really dissapointed that it didn't move like in the movie ;)

Bobby and I snuck in a picture as the kids looked at all the animals ;)

LaSt StOp! DC Cupcakes!!!! =)

Since i am so into making cupcakes right now...this was so fun to see and try out! :)

Mmmmmmm.....They were yummy!

It was a VERY fun trip...Very tiring too...

Wiped the kids out!

Yorktown Trip

2011-06-22T13:14:00.002-04:00

Bre and Mike met us after church, got to look around a little and take a picture :)

Then we headed over to Yorktown...Thanks to Mike we were all able to see everything for FREEE! lol

Inside the museum...the boys thought the boat and cannons were really cool!

After looking in the museum we watched a historical movie and then took a tour around the battlegrounds...it was super hot and a little boring..lol....but seeing the big Cannons again were the kids' favorite! ;)

Elijah was such a trooper in the heat! :)

We sat in the shade for a bit....

After a few minutes the Fife and Drummers came out and entertained us! That was cool! That is the Logans favorite! :)

Then we headed over to the Victory Monument :)

This tree was awesome! We couldn't pass up taking pictures in it :)

CW

2011-06-22T12:44:00.004-04:00

After the Pool we went over to Colonial Williamsburg...visited the old church and cemetery...

The Kiddos ;)

Bobby and I (love this piture!)

Cyrenity...pretending she is a model...with the cemetery in the background..creepy! lol!

Little Mister!

This is what happens when they aren't on their best behavior....

HAHAHAHA...

The Elkins...I think this is the place they kept their weapons during the battle...i can't remember...but Mike thought it was cool ;)

Fun in the Sun!

2011-06-20T21:46:00.003-04:00

The second day with Bre, Mike and family was spent half at the pool half at CW (pictures from there still to come)

Cutie Pie!!!!

Uncle Mike and Logan

Zayden LOVES this pool! It's sooo pretty, cracked me up that there is a pool for 18 and up, 2 pools for families and 1 for toddlers...very cool...lots of fun...too bad Bobby can't sneak us all in more often! ;)

Zion loved swimming, but liked sitting out in the sun too ;)

Fun times!

Gia and Zion

LOVE this picture! He so enjoyed the pool :)

Of course Logan spent most of the time jumping in the pool ;)

Lots of fun! And it was a great day for the pool...I tthink it was in the 90s that day ;)

Congratulations Matthew!!!

2011-06-20T09:15:00.000-04:00

Saturday was Matthews High School Graduation...

We were excited to join Matthew in celebration of his graduation! :)

Pastor Tom and Zayden

Cyrenity ;)

Happy Fathers Day Dad

2011-06-19T21:02:00.000-04:00

They Love Their Daddy!

Happy Fathers Day! =D

2011-06-19T07:30:00.000-04:00

A visit from the Elkins!

2011-06-17T10:00:00.003-04:00

Mike and Bre, Gia and Elijah came to visit this last week...it was lots of fun! We were so glad to finally meet her family...Elijah is AdOrAbLe! :)

Logan and Elijah...they were quick buddies..it was hard to keep the kids from constantly wanting to pick him up! Bre and Mike were very patient..lol!

Zayden was not scared of Bre this time..LOL

The Guys...Elijah looks like he is being squished! HA!

Gia and Cyrenity...quick friends!

Me and Elijah :)

Don't worry...i have lots more pictures! ;)

Gabe Graduates!!!

2011-06-15T23:50:00.000-04:00

Zayden, Zion and I were able to join Heidi, John, Tiff, Caleb, Ms. Kim, and Ms. Jeanne to watch Gabriel Graduate on Wednesday! (I don't think there was a dry eye between all of us! LOL) What an awesome time and how cool it is to see how far he has come these last 3 years! His teacher Ms. Carol is truly a gift from God! and all his aides and his bus drivers...it just has been great time for him...I can't believe he is moving on to Junior High..How Great is Our God!

He is just too cute in his Gown! Posing with Mom and Dad!

Proud Parents! :)

Grace jumps in the picture! She is Gabes special friend..they are so cute together! They've always got each others backs ;)

Way to go Gabe!!!!!!

Matt Brouwer~I shall Believe

2011-06-15T23:48:00.000-04:00

Zayden's end of the year celebration

2011-06-10T00:13:00.005-04:00

Lunch time!

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom! Meet me at the top of the Coconut Tree! (Zayden's Favorite!)

Getting ready to sing a few songs

The Itsy Bitsy Spider

Trying to take a picture with Zion ;)

Ms. Meghan, Zayden and Ms. Theresa...He's gonna miss them lots!!!

Krispy Kremes

2011-06-08T11:11:00.003-04:00

We had a fundraiser this week, selling Krispy Kremes!

Our Team ROCKED! We sold 65 boxes!

We went to pick them up and Zion and Caleb came along for the ride ;)

They did really good...till the last 15 minutes or so, they began getting on one another's nerves LOL

Looking forward to doing this again! :)

I LIFT MY HANDS! ~ Chris Tomlin

2011-06-07T15:05:00.000-04:00

Best Friend Pals! :)

2011-06-05T20:59:00.003-04:00

Zion and Caleb

It's so fun to see them growing up side by side...only days apart in age, they have known each other from birth...they are closer than friends, they are family..they love each other lots! =D

Before and After

2011-06-02T21:03:00.005-04:00

It's summertime!..at least the weather is very warm lately ;)

Bobby has been wanting to cut the boys' hair for a while now and since it's hot, he has really been pushing to do it :)

The boys! Before...

Zion...during...

I tried to cut it a little..lol...but Bobby had to finish ;)

I don't really know what Zion's fascination is with this phone, but he has it everywhere he goes..even during a haircut.

The Boys! After...

Zion is getting way too big :( This haircut doesn't help at all..he really looks old now!

I love 'em to death..they are so cute when they are in the best buds mood! ;)

Cyrenity of course didn't like being left out...she had to get in on the picture taking..LOL She is SOOO CrAzY!

Pool Time!

2011-06-02T21:00:00.001-04:00

Swimming is one of our kids most favorite past times! They have been counting down the days to the pool opening..so on Sunday, Dest, Nathaniel and Sabrina came over and we all went down to the pool! :)

Zayden

(Bobby, Logan and Nathaniel are in the pool behind him..lol..the only picture i got of them since they didn't get out of the pool until it was time to go..)

Cyrenity...our little fish! ;)

Zion...he likes to look at the pool and dip his feet in ;)

Dest and Sabrina ..Soaking in the sun. =D

Water Babies!

I told him to smile and he closed his eyes! LOL!

Having dessert after dinner....hahahaha

Nathaniel...deciding if he likes his cupcake..lol!

He stayed over since there was no school monday..woohoo! We enjoyed having him over..he keeps us laughing..so fun! ;) Then we all went swimming Again on Monday! :)

2011-05-30T09:48:00.000-04:00

Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes =D

2011-05-28T23:28:00.003-04:00

I am SO proud of this frosting!!!!

It came out SUPER smooth and tastes really good too ;)

I want to get a better tip to make the frosting look a bit fluffier, but it still looked pretty, pretty ;)

I was trying to be a little creative (and trying to find the right tip to use) lol..

Lemon cupcake, with a raspberry-lemon white chocolate-cream cheese frosting...lol try to say that fast!

I made a whole batch of these, plus half a batch for Zayden...he is so excited! No frosting for him..too much to substitute, but the cupcakes were alot easier to substitute ingredients for him...he kept telling Bobby "mommy is making me lemonade cupcakes!" lol It makes me so happy to be able to include him in our fun desserts! :)

The kids had to go to bed before they were finished, so hopefully they enjoy them tomorrow! I know Cyrenity will love 'em, THEY"RE PINK! ;)

Narnia!

2011-05-28T23:15:00.001-04:00

Posing for a picture before movie night ;)

CRAZY KIDS!

A big thanks to Aunt Heidi for loaning us the 3rd Chronicles of Narnia tonight...it was really good! :) The kids were so excited to stay up a little past bed time and got REALLY excited when Bobby showed up WAY earlier than we expected and got to watch it with us too!

We love family movie nights! :)

More Chocolate Cupcakes ;)

2011-05-27T23:18:00.004-04:00

I got bored today and didn't feel like going to grocery store for ingredients...so I went thru all my ingredients I had and figured out I could make chocolate cupcakes and chocolate frosting :)

The frosting came out so much better this time...I think I am almost there! ;)

The kids were excited about the cupcakes!

Especially Zion...I don't give him the frosting...but he still really enjoys cupcakes!!!! =D

Zayden was a good sport about not being able to eat

them :( I promised him I'd make a flavor he could have next time :)

Yorktown Beach

2011-05-22T23:28:00.010-04:00

We went to Yorktown Beach to take family pictures a few weeks ago...

It is such a beautiful spot for pictures!

We didn't know it was gonna be SO cold though! LOL We were all shivering! Poor kids! But they were troopers, wearing sweaters in between pictures and braving the cold wind while we took the pictures ;)

It was SO windy too! All the pictures were with our hair windblown! But still pretty pictures..all matchy matchy ;) and a gorgeous background! Thank God for His amazing creations that we can take advantage of for a moment to make our pictures more beautiful! =D And a good friend, who was willing to brave the cold to take our pics! ;)

Our family standing on the ROCK!

Bobby and I! I am SO excited to say this year I have been married to him for 10 Years!!!! :)

Cyrenity and I

My Boys! ;)

Da GiRlZ! ;)

Me and Heidi

Heid, Bobby, Tiff

Love 'Em All Lots!

They are Too Funny!..Life's definitely not boring with the 3 of 'em around!!! lol

Proud to RoCk with the B/B's! ;)

If you don't at first succeed....

2011-05-22T18:42:00.002-04:00

I made strawberry cupcakes yesterday.... :(

Not the best...If I was on Cupcake Wars I believe the word they would use to describe them is "dense" ha!..but i think i finally got the frosting down!...Until I added the strawberry puree (sheesh!)

They were a little pinker than they look in the pictures...

They definitely took alot longer than I expected (I don't recommend trying to puree in a blender that doesn't work well...LOL)

Maybe I will try Strawberrry cupcakes again...just not anytime soon ;)

And definitely not the same recipes I tried this time! ;)

A little randomness ;)

2011-05-22T18:22:00.002-04:00

I did Cyrenity's hair last week for church and even after church and running around outside, it still looked pretty..so I had to take a picture ;)

Zayden, "break dancing" as we wait for kids to bus to come =D

Cyrenity's art project last week...a painting of a cat..she was very proud :)

2011-05-20T20:19:00.001-04:00

"God, I will walk beside you, where ever you are, whatever it takes, no matter how far!”

Chocolate Cupcakes! :)

2011-05-18T23:18:00.003-04:00

I am LOVING cupcakes lately!

So now i am trying to make them from scratch.

For Zayden's bday I made some but the frosting REALLY frustrated me! lol

The last few desserts/cupcakes I made were not Bobby's favorite...so I decided to make the "best" Chocolate cupcakes for him. ;)

***So they are really called "better than sex cupcakes"...cracks me up!***

Frosting is not bobby's favorite~whew!~ ;)

So I made these ones with a chocolate ganache instead of frosting...

They were pretty easy, but OH MY! ALOT of Chocolate!!!

You must be a chocolate lover to enjoy these cupcakes ;)

Great for "that time of the month" LOL!

Bobby seriously enjoyed them....He thought they were the best ever! ;)

Don't worry, the next ones will not be so chocolatey!

(Plus, I am DETERMINED to master the frosting next time! ;)

If you would like to try them yourself, here is the recipe!

ENJOY!

The Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Chips

The chocolate cake recipe came from Chockylit's cupcake blog. I am reprinting it below with my added step of mixing in chocolate chips. Chockylit points out that this recipe will make flat cupcakes, not domed ones. Do not try to overfill your cupcake liner. She recommend filling it 2/3 full. I changed the recipe to reflect the fact that I only filled mine about 1/2 way.
Makes 16 regular cupcakes.

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, room temperature
1-1/4 cups sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
3/4 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoons vanilla
2/3 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips

Beat butter until softened.
Add sugar and beat until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Add eggs, one at a time, beating until well combined.
Measure the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder into a small sized bowl and whisk to combine.
Measure out the milk and vanilla and stir to combine.
Add about a third of the dry ingredients to the butter/sugar and beat to combine. Add about a half of the milk/vanilla and beat to combine.
Continue adding, alternating between dry and wet and finishing with the dry.
Stir in chocolate chips.
Scoop batter into cupcake cups about 1/2 full.
Bake at 350 degrees for 22-25 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean.

(cupcake recipe adapted from Cupcake Project)

Cool cupcakes and then fill with Chocolate Mousse...

Chocolate Mousse Filling

2 cups heavy whipping cream
2 cups milk chocolate chips

To prepare the mousse, melt the milk chocolate chips in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds. Set aside to cool. Meanwhile, whip the heavy cream with a stand or electric mixer until it looks like whipped cream and stiff peaks form. Fold melted chocolate chips into whipped cream until well combined, then transfer batches into a piping bag. When cupcakes have cooled, press the tip of the piping bag into the center of the cupcake, about 1 inch deep. Squeeze the mousse into the cupcake while pulling the tip out. It doesn’t take much, just one firm squeeze is perfect. Continue filling all the cupcakes.

After you fill the cupcakes Frost with Chocolate Ganache....

The Dark Chocolate Ganache

3.5 oz of dark chocolate broken into small pieces (I used Ghiradelli chocolate)

1/3 C heavy cream

Place the chocolate in a small glass bowl. Heat the cream in a small saucepan until it just starts to boil. Pour the cream over the chocolate and stir until all the chocolate is melted and integrated with the cream. While it is still warm, spread a thin layer of it over the cupcakes. It will harden when it cools.

Lastly, drizzle with white Chocolate...

White Chocolate Drizzle

White chocolate drizzle is so pretty and professional looking, and it is so easy to do.

Melt 2 ounces of white chocolate. You can do this on the stove, but I find it easier to do in the microwave. I do it for 20 seconds at a time. Stir after each round. When it is all melted, you are done. It should take about a minute.

Pour the melted chocolate into a plastic sandwich bag or a disposable pastry bag. Cut a very small hole at the tip of the bag and draw whatever kind of funky pattern you want onto your cupcakes!

God of my EVERYTHING!

2011-05-17T11:12:00.001-04:00

Our silly little man!

2011-05-16T21:00:00.002-04:00

Bobby shaved Zayden's head tonight...He has lots of sores all over his head, it's better for it to be shaved to be able to put the medicine on 'em.

Even when he is miserable he is still so silly and crackin' us up! :)

Where do you think he got this face from? LOL

School Pictures

2011-05-09T21:10:00.003-04:00

Here are the kid's Spring shcool pics!

They are getting SO big...All of them!

Logan~2nd grade

Cyrenity~Kindergarten

Zayden~Preschool

Just for Oma! ;)

2011-05-09T21:03:00.000-04:00

Oma pointed out to us that there were no pictures of Zion on Zayden's bday blog...So here are a few pics for you Oma :)

Happy Mother's Day! =)

2011-05-08T06:15:00.001-04:00

HE SIGNED IT!!!!

2011-05-06T17:10:00.004-04:00

I received this email today!!!!! :)

This is SO exciting!!!

It is exciting for families who's children are in the age range to receive the coverage...but it is also exciting for ALL families affected by Autism, because it means that our state is acknowledging that Autism is Real and it Does Exist. It acknowledges that there is truly help for those affected by Autism. That is a start for our mission and determination to fight for a cure and to see that Together, one day, we WILL find the missing pieces!!!!

What a great start to our motivation this year as we are fundraising for the Walk again! Our voices are heard and we Can make a difference! :)

Dear Virginia Autism Advocate,
Today’s message is one that is more than a decade in the making.

This afternoon, Governor Bob McDonnell signed both SB 1062 and HB 2467 (Virginia’s autism insurance reform legislation) into law, providing help and hope to families all across the Commonwealth who have children with autism.

The new law requires state-regulated health insurance to cover the diagnosis and treatment of children between the ages of two and six with an autism spectrum order. (Additional information about the legislation can be found at http://www.autismvotes.org/virginia.)
Tremendous thanks is due to the Virginia autism community (particularly the Virginia Autism Project) for their determination and hard work as well as to our amazing champions in both the House and Senate.

We are thrilled that Governor McDonnell exhibited principled leadership and elected to sign the legislation. It is important that he know how much this means to his constituents all across the Commonwealth.

Please stay tuned in the coming weeks as we shift our focus to implementation and enforcement of the new law. But for today, let’s cherish the victory of a hard-fought battle.

Thank you, Virginia, for never giving up. You have become the 26th state to require health insurance to cover autism treatment. And more importantly, you’ve changed the future for children with autism all over the Commonwealth.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Judith Ursitti
Regional Director, State Advocacy Relations
Autism Speaks

Peter Furler!!!!! =D "Reach"

2011-05-06T14:16:00.002-04:00

I soooooo miss him being with the Newsboys!!!! Newsboys are not Newsboys without him :(

But I have to say, I am LOVING his new song!

Enjoy!

Temples and Tombs

2011-05-05T00:15:00.001-04:00

Logan was in his school play on Tuesday night...Temples and Tombs.

He has been soooo excited about this, they have been practicing ALOT. It was supposed to be last Thursday but because of the bad weather and tornado watches, they postponed it to Tuesday.

This was the entrance to the gym..i thought it was decorated cute :) And the sign was written to mummies and daddies..lol

While we were waiting for it to start, they had these pictures on a slide...the kids thought it was hilarious when Logans picture came up, so we had to take a picture ;)

His class sang the very first song up on stage...doing motions and everything...He did such an awesome job! He sang the whole song and did all the motions :) He is on the very left with the red around his neck and the yellow belt....

Sorry, it was VERY crowded so it was sooo hard to get good pictures :(

Although blurry, this was Logan on the stage ;)

After his song on stage, they stood on bleachers next to the stage and sang the rest of the songs....He did such an awesome job...seriously! I was worried, cuz it was 40 minutes long, I thought he would start getting distracted or start messing around and fall off the bleacher...LOL But he didn't! He sang every song...and on the last song, I swear I could hear him above all the other kids...haahahaha..the last song was his very favorite ;)

Bobby and Zion

Cyrenity

Zion

Bobby, Cyrenity and Zion, waiting for the play to start...LOL....can you tell Cyrenity was getting bored!

The Boys

He was so very proud of himself!

You did a great job Bubba!!! We are proud of you!

Zaydens 4th Bday!

2011-05-01T22:19:00.008-04:00

It's finally here! :)

He has been counting down since Easter...he just could not wait for his cupcakes!

I was determined to make him cupcakes HE could eat this year...He so enjoyed them!! =)

Singing Happy Birthday

Bobby, Zayden and I

Cyrenity and the Birthday Boy

Uncle John and Aunt Heidi

Aunt Heidi and Cyrenity

Aunt Heidi and Aunt Tiffany

Aunt Tiffany and Mini-tiffy..LOL

Zayden and His Buddy Noah

It was so special for Noah to come...totally made his day!! :)

Whirly Bird from Grandpa Ron and Grandma Cyndie

His 3D glasses for his cool 3D chalk from Uncle John and Aunt Heidi :)

Monster truck showdown toy from Noah and Junior

Baseball from mom and dad :)

He said he had a great birthday! :)

It was So much fun!!!

What happens when you give Cyrenity a camera???

2011-05-01T22:15:00.000-04:00

Spence!

Uncle John

Thor..the baseball player LOL

Noah

Taking pics of herself ;)

Nathaniel enjoying his ice cream

Bobby

Cyrenity again ;)

Agent Oso??

Me;)

the table...

Spencer

Zayden

Aunt Heidi

Daddy

Aunt Tiffany.....

Do you see a pattern? Must run in the family to stick out your tongue....LOL!!!!!

Happy Birthday Little Man!

2011-05-01T10:13:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday to our little man!

My goodness! It seems like you have grown up so much this last year! I can't believe how independent you have gotten! Your strength always amazes me! God has given you great endurance, the things you endure we would all be crying and fussing daily if we couldn't eat so much or always itching, but you take it on like a man! And you endure thru it with such joy and you are so much fun despite all that!

You are too funny and keep us laughing all the time...we could be having a bad day and you just have to flash us a funny face or your goofy smile and it changes our mood so quickly. =)

We love you so much Zayden!!!!

Awesome Performance!

2011-04-27T12:33:00.001-04:00

Logans Bday

2011-04-14T07:26:00.001-04:00

Last Thursday we ccelebrated Logan's bday. No parties this year, just a quiet dinner, with the barreras and tiff...okay, maybe not quiet..lol..but very nice and fun! ;)

Our Handsome Man!

He decided to not have cake this year, but instead have floats!

Yes, he is so my son! ;)

Love this pic! So pretty! Tiff and her little mini-me..LOL

Barrera Bunch

A super soaker! He had so much fun trying to get Junior soaked with this..I know this will bring LOTS of fun this summer!!!

So sweet...Destinee took her own money and bought Logan a gift...art supplies and skittles...she knows him well!

Bobby made a frame for Logans picture he drew...they both look so proud of their work ;)

What a fun night!

Happy Happy Birthday to YOU!!!!!

2011-04-13T10:15:00.000-04:00

Cyrenity,

You are 6 now! You have waited for this day for months now and it is finally here! ;) It has come too quick!

What a beautiful little girl you are, you have soooo many words each day, you wake up talking and go to bed talking, sometimes i think if you could you would talk while you sleep! LOL I know one day you will get that although talking is your strength an even greater strength is knowing when not to talk ;) God will help you with that!

Your love is sooo big! You have so much love to give to everyone around you that makes me proud of you!

We love you lots and lots and can't wait to see what God has in store for yu this year!

You are invited: Watch my Autism Speaks video message

2011-04-07T18:45:00.001-04:00

You are invited: Watch my Autism Speaks video message

(click on link above to view video)

It's that time of year again! :)

Join our walking team or help by making a donation at http://www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/richmond/rockautismnow

Thank you for your support!!!

HaPpY BiRtHdAy tO yOu!!!!!!

2011-04-07T13:02:00.002-04:00

Logan,

Can't believe you are 8 years old!!!

What an awesome little boy you are becoming! You love helping out and that makes us so proud of you. You can always tell when someone feels left out or needs a little encouraging and you include them or encourage them. But most of all I love how much you love Jesus and how much you love to worship him..it makes me smile every time i hear you singing with your class, loud and strong to your Jesus, and I know it makes Him smile too!

Don't get discouraged or let things get in your way, always know that no matter what, Jesus loves you!

We love you so much Bubba and we are so proud of you!

So handsome!

2011-04-06T10:56:00.002-04:00

Logan got new glasses...he is so cute!!! :)

College Creek

2011-04-06T10:20:00.004-04:00

Monday Bobby and the kids were all off so we tried to spend a little bit of family time...It was a BeAuTiFuL Day..the sun was out, 83 degrees..it was LOVELY!

Zayden was already a little broken out so we knew we couldn't spend too much time outdoors, we didn't want to go too far just to have to leave fast. So we went to College Creek :)

Let me tell you, I have missed the beach!!!!! My feet have not been on the sand in 3 years! 3 years is TOOOOO long for me! How i loved being near water and on the sand...I must go back! LOL

Oh...and the kids enjoyed it too ;)

Looking for seashells with dad...

Building sand castles...

Zayden found this stick...we thought of Gabriel..wanted to bring it home for him ;) but then it got swept away in the ocean :( lol

Zayden had so much fun (almost enjoyed it as much as me..hahaha) he asked if we could go back...poor guy though, paid for it later, he was really broken out :( but at least he got to enjoy it...

All in all it was a very fun hour at the "beach" ;)

Spring Has Sprung!

2011-03-29T12:55:00.005-04:00

Despite the freezing cold weather, Spring is HERE!!!

I can't wait for the weather to get nice again but I am really loving all the flowers blooming!!!

I was out yesterday and had to take a picture of the trees in bloom...this is one of my favorite times of the year...So beautiful!...bring out the capris and tanktops!...lol (soon i hope!)

Please Spring weather come back! LOL

2011-03-27T00:28:00.002-04:00

"Yes, here is a woman whom I will bless with a child who is less than perfect. She doesn't realize it yet, but she is to be envied. She will never take for granted a "spoken word." She will never consider a "step" ordinary. When her child says "Momma" for the first time, she will be present at a miracle and know it! When she describes a tree or sunset to her blind child, she will see it as few people ever see my creations.

"I will permit her to see clearly the things I see....ignorance, cruelty, prejudice... and allow her to rise above them. She will never be alone. I will be at her side every minute of every day of her life because she is doing my work as surely as she is here by my side."

(adapted from Some Mothers CHosen by God ~Erma Bombeck~)

You Loved Me Anyway~Sidewalk Prophets

2011-03-25T13:32:00.000-04:00

Things You Can Count on NOW!

2011-03-22T12:34:00.001-04:00

There is a grace that is sufficient;
a mercy that endures;
an atoning blood that cleanses;
a hope that doesn't disappoint;
a love that never fails;
a purpose that works all things together for the good;
a peace that passes understanding;
a joy unspeakable;
a kingdom unshakable;
a foundation indestructible;
a High Priest who prays;
a Savior who lives;
a Spirit who comforts;
a Father who cares.

Therefore, we who have fled to Him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us. This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls.

Hebrews 6:18-19 NLT

~Roy Lessin~

Praying for Japan!

2011-03-18T12:54:00.002-04:00

You Are King above the Storm, Let us be still and know You are God!!!

Happy Saint Patrick's Day! :)

2011-03-17T16:51:00.002-04:00

Here is some facts about why we celebrate today...posted by Jim Daly :)

http://www.focusonlinecommunities.com/blogs/Finding_Home/2011/03/17/there-is-something-about-the-irish

Hope you all have a wonderful day! Watch out! If you have kids and not wearing green..you are probably gonna get pinched! ;)

You Shall Not Want

2011-03-15T15:12:00.001-04:00

The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. Psalm 23:1

To the lost sheep, He is the seeking Shepherd;
To the needy sheep, He is the providing Shepherd;
To the hurting sheep, He is the comforting Shepherd;
To the bruised sheep, He is the healing Shepherd;
To the anxious sheep, He is the peaceful Shepherd;
To the wandering sheep, He is the guiding Shepherd;
To the fearful sheep, He is the protecting Shepherd;
To the lame sheep, He is the carrying Shepherd;
To the discontented sheep, He is the fulfilling Shepherd;
To the parched sheep, He is the anointing Shepherd;
To the timid sheep, He is the reassuring Shepherd;
To the fallen sheep, He is the merciful Shepherd;
To the nervous sheep, He is the quieting Shepherd;
To the heavy laden sheep, He is the restful Shepherd;
To the lonely sheep, He is the ever-present Shepherd;
To the weary sheep, He is the restoring Shepherd;
To all His sheep, He is the Good Shepherd.

~Roy Lessin~

What an Awsome song, Had to share!

2011-03-08T20:40:00.000-05:00

We pray for blessings
We pray for peace
Comfort for family, protection while we sleep
We pray for healing, for prosperity
We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering
All the while, You hear each spoken need
Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things

‘Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

We pray for wisdom
Your voice to hear
And we cry in anger when we cannot feel You near
We doubt Your goodness, we doubt Your love
As if every promise from Your Word is not enough
All the while, You hear each desperate plea
But long that we'd have the faith to believe

‘Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

When friends betray us
When darkness seems to win
We know the pain reminds this heart
That this is not, this is not our home

‘Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
And what if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy
And what if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are your mercies in disguise