Something To Blog About

2012 and here I am

2012-01-27T10:23:00.003-05:00

Miss Sweet 16 left our home in early October. Heartaches. incredible heartache. Been enjoying our 7 sweet boys through the holiday season. Had my gall bladder removed on Dec 27. Currently on a weight loss plan with Ideal Protein!~
Big Year and Big changes!~~!

Maybe Ill be posting more? you never know!~

New Baby Makes Ten.

2011-06-16T17:26:00.002-04:00

Baby Brother bear, the newest addition to the one sibling group of four, makes our family size 10.

It busy here as we break into summer!

Thankfully the little ones still attend preschool during the summer and receive the various intervention services and therapies.

Blogging is on thebackshelf for me , but i continually enjoy scanning over all YOUR blogs!~

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its more than just being busy

2011-05-03T08:04:00.002-04:00

We just finished a lovely 5 day vacation over to ST. Augustine!!
What a fabulous place for little ones and adults alike.
Even our teen, Miss Sweet 16 had an enjoyable time!

-- As I know it has been months since me --the busy momma has shown her face around here-- I thought Id share some update!

-We have 7 wonderful children!-

UNfortunately my phone was stolen yesterday. Therefore all my photos and videos from said vacation were on there!! However I had a few on Facebook that I uploaded while on the trip.

The typical happening on our home include Laundry, BAth, Meals, PLay, cuddles, potty training...

Miss Sweet 16 is beginning a career of competitive shooting with my husband. SHe competed for the first time this past Sunday. Im proud of her! SHe also plans to join Cheerleading this summer/fall.

Dr. seuss story time!!!

2011-02-26T09:45:00.001-05:00

Thanks Target!!!!

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Happy Valentines

2011-02-11T08:59:00.001-05:00

Here is what I made for my sweeties

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Picnic at the park....

2010-12-31T17:24:00.001-05:00

What is better than a pb&j...

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Cutie with cups

2010-12-28T13:56:00.001-05:00

His new toy story apron .love it.

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What chaos the special day brings

2010-12-28T13:55:00.003-05:00

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Opening gifts

2010-12-28T13:55:00.001-05:00

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Cookie monster

2010-12-28T13:54:00.001-05:00

Decorating his own cookie.

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A goood Christmas!

2010-12-28T13:52:00.003-05:00

we had a great day with our 7 children.

Our 14 yr old left on Tuesday before Christmas!

It was a long and busy day. I will plan to relax more next year with a pre-made meal or restaurant outing!!

I will upload pictures from my phone for you to view!!

kindergarten

2010-12-15T08:56:00.001-05:00

At school ...waiting to enroll our new 6 yr old. Boys watching phineas and firb.lol.

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baking with my buddies

2010-12-12T17:42:00.001-05:00

Watching and waiting for them to be done.

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date nite

2010-12-12T08:00:00.001-05:00

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A quick trip....

2010-12-09T21:25:00.001-05:00

Dont forget to drop by my FOSTER BLOG~!~

dinner time

2010-11-29T18:14:00.001-05:00

I love my children.

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gerber movie I made

2010-11-19T12:37:00.001-05:00

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I'm hosting a gerber generation party .

2010-11-19T12:01:00.001-05:00

I love houseparty.com

start healthy stay healthy .

Gerber

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2010-11-17T14:08:00.002-05:00

My husband got rear ended today.
I mean the guy didnt brake at all!! My poor van butt is all SmooSHED!

Thankfully my sweet Deputy is fine. !!

*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~***~*~*~*~***~*~*

more super savings

2010-11-17T12:40:00.001-05:00

I spent $25.63 at Target and got a $5 gift card back. I used a coupon for every single item.

At publix I got the 4 macaroni grill items for $11.

Couponing is worth it.

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a new place to visit!!

2010-11-16T22:06:00.001-05:00

FOSTER BLOG

I have a new blog! it details fostering and adopting. PLease Stop BY!!

second stop.public.

2010-10-19T10:44:00.001-04:00

All this was $3.95. I did not have a coupon for the pickles,but my daughters will have them eaten before midnight tomorrow. Check out mysweetsavings.com. to see how I doing all this.

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target. what we got.

2010-10-19T10:17:00.001-04:00

Total $15. Got $10 worth of target

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we are couponing

2010-10-19T10:00:00.001-04:00

This is our first stop. Target.

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Michael at the Patch

2010-10-18T17:59:00.003-04:00

We ALL went to the patch on Saturday!
Since I can only post photos of my Michael so He will show you around!!

my family in pumpkins

2010-10-18T15:49:00.001-04:00

This is what we look like as a family.

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today-- INfant Loss Remembrance Day.

2010-10-15T20:25:00.003-04:00

October 15-- I just cant pass through the day without taking a moment to remember my sweet baby Joseph born June 5 2007. I love you so much honey and I will see you again soon!!!

I know you WANT to know!

2010-10-11T20:19:00.002-04:00

How I broke My toe today!
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Now listen hear, I dont set my alarm. I have 5 children up before dawn!

I slept in a few minutes past 7:30 today as the deputy came in to the room to say
"I hope you dont mind taking the children to preschool this morning".
I quickly got into action changing diapers and clothing. I sent Little E to throw his pull-up away and continued along on my merry way.
5 minutes later he was no here to be found so I searched and then saw him in the middle of a cloud! You moms know the cloud that I mean! The one made of toilet paper on the bathroom floor. Little did I know he was trying to be Sweet by cleaning up the pee he had peed . . . and then out swept my feet as I slipt on that pee and knocked little E to the ground with a thud.

Both covered in pee he needed a bath, I needed "time -out" and a quick change of jeans.

Now during that fall my poor middle toe got the brunt of it all!

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and that i story I knew you would like to hear.

Family of NIne

2010-09-30T08:28:00.002-04:00

We are a happy family most of the time.

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I smile just thinking about dinner time and the food being fed to the dog. I laugh a little bit out loud when I remember the baby peeing on the 15 year old who just trying to get out of doing dishes by changing a few diapers as her chore.

But I also feel a little sober thinking about the in school suspension or a day at Public Health due to an STD. I sadden a bit knowing that my Lenny boy will be leaving me someday to live with his grandparents. Oh, yes they love him and will do a fine job raising him, but he will take more than a bit of my love with him.

Many children that enter this cozy home are in for some culture shock! This crazee white lady who grew up on GUam, and the Philipino lad from Illinois?! How are we supposed to raise teen black girls from what they call the "ghetto". Im just not sure that Im allowed to use that word.
My little boys are all a mixture of learning new words, and songs, and manners. They are dears. Our girls are fantastic helpers both with an amazing sense of humor!

I have the "luxury" to be a stay-at-home -mom.
However. Are there really stay at home moms who actually stay home throughout the day??

Lately i have been out of the house more often that a 9-5 jobber!

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from our trip to the fl Aquarium

2010-09-23T21:10:00.000-04:00

First week of Preschool Homeschool

2010-09-16T12:33:00.001-04:00

respite

2010-09-15T20:38:00.002-04:00

Respite is such an important part of foster parenting... LIke many of you we cant just go out and get any ole babysitter to watch our children. they have to be finger printed and background check by our local Foster agency.... so they really have to WANT to watch our littles...
Therefore as foster parents e can "do respite" for other foster families....

Emergencies come up! So this week we have child --a child from off the news...
DO you ever see those stories that come up and break your heart on the local news? Those stories about neglected children living in unsanitary and hazardous conditions....

Many of our kids stoires aren't straight from the headlines.... but they are still just as needy as those that are.

I LOVE my KIDS! I love what I do!!! I love that I can give respite to another FosterMomma who had an emergency....

His Story

2010-09-14T13:54:00.002-04:00

Pics from Last October-- one year ago............

In the summer of 2007 Jacob and I were anxiously awaiting the birth of our son Joseph. On June 5 he was born straight into the arms of Jesus. In the weeks that followed I cried more than ever before and the desire to be a mother was stronger than ever. Looking through the paper one day I found a job description for caregivers to abused and neglected children. Within a month we had moved in to Everyday Blessings and become "parents" to five precious boys! Throughout our time there we cared for over 9 little boys. We then decided to move into a home of our home and foster children in our own environment. It took time, it took a lot of time, but in June of 2009 we received a phone call requesting that we take two AA boys ages 2 and 7 months. The 2 year old was De'kwan. He came in as a very shy boy eating obsessively, because he had not been fed properly. The Child Protection Team of doctors labeled him and the baby (Lenny) as failure to thrive. Within a month he had gained 5 lbs and was more than thriving! Even today the doctors say he is actually overweight!

In August 2009, he started to call me mommy yet, still called Jacob "PoppaJake" which came out sounding like "cuppycake". I dont remember the exact date but he likes calling Jake "my daddy" now.

As 2010 rolled around we began to see signs that TPR (termination of parental rights) would be considered if the mother did not get her act together. The Friday before Mothers day we received word that TPR had been finalized and we could adopt him!! We began the paperwork and extra homestudy. At that time we also decided on the name Michel and introduced it to him. He liked it! Two weeks ago, mid August, we got a call from our attorney that she had all the paperwork completed and could set a court date for us for Sept 1. I got the goosebumps I was so happy! The next day we got another call that his permanancy hearing had never been held! It got scheduled for the 31st of August which is cutting it oh so close!! We knew God had control over it so we went on without a care. On Wednesday, Sept 1st, we joined family at friends at the Tampa Municipal Courthouse to hear the judge unite us as a forever family.

Forever

2010-09-01T19:28:00.002-04:00

MIchael is OURS. We had court today and Michael became our legal son and we are so happpy to care for this handsome little man!

September 1

2010-08-22T19:05:00.001-04:00

The first of next month will be such a special day for us!!!! WE will be adopting our LIl Man D, who has been named Michael... even now he says my name is Michael. He loves his new name!

We are happppy and blessed --that is for sure!!

2010-08-11T10:33:00.002-04:00

OUR NEW VAN!!!!!!!!!! 12 passenger and Silver. SO nice and pretty and runs so smooth and fits everyone comfortably!

LIfe as a fmaily of 8 is so wonderful!
there are more hugs and love than one could imagine.
We have had some tough times with court orders and therapies and hospital stays but It is sure goood that God gets us through!!

New BABy in da house!

2010-07-02T21:02:00.001-04:00

Today we got sweeet little brother to my two little Mexicans!
aww he is so darn cute!

4 months old. JUST precious!!!

__________________________

well i suppose that means even less blogging from me??~~?

So it doesn't have to all be about pictures.,...

2010-06-23T21:49:00.002-04:00

Sitting here in my bed after a long day with my precious family, I htink about wanting to share them with you!

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Still parents of 5. One new addition. A 15 year old girl. love her.

Everything is going wonderfully with everyone. Even though two of my sweet littles were to be reunified with their father last month, nothing happened and they remained with us. The next court date is in August.

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My deputy is considering going to work as a cop for a different agency here in Tampa.

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I met my daughters cute BF tonite. They're adorable. He wants to take her on a date to go ice skating!! {love}

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My 3 year old is soooon to be adopted. He will be be my "MIKE" .
He is in preschool and is attending vbs this week too!!
{smiles and ooozing love}
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thanks for tuning in to this most wordy update

as posted on my facebook.

2010-05-22T10:57:00.000-04:00

Adoption PArty for my "Michael" D Ashmore

This summer we are adopting!!!!!

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Michael D (We are naming him) is 3 and has been with us a year now!!

I am planning the hugest party I have ever thrown!! I am SO exited and want this to be an event to remember!!! I want it to be SO FUN for the children and NOT stressful for the adults!!! Lets imagine 75- 100 people in attendance....

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++

What are some suggestions you have for the following:

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

catering:

childcare help:

Bouncy houses etc:

entertainment (clown, pirate, dj, etc)

food service personnel:

rental space and rental equipment:

games and activities:

gift registry??

Gifts for guests:

how to share adoption story:

time of day/ length of party:

Theme!! :

a good dream tonight.

2010-05-17T22:00:00.002-04:00

Here am I late at night. Looking at pictures like THIS

Because we are planning on heading out to Hawaii in the next 10 days or so!!!

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Two of our sweet munchkins have court on Wednesday and the current prognosis is their reunification with birth father. We decided to use this as an opportunity for us to vacation and spend time with my lovely parents.

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BIG NEWS

2010-05-12T21:16:00.001-04:00

We will be ADOPTING!

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LAst June 3rd. Lil MAn D was placed in our care. This summer he will become par of our family forever!!!

An easy freezer casserole

2010-05-07T10:25:00.002-04:00

Ive never been a BIG casserole cooker or eater however the children love them and it is one way that they all eat veggies!!
Boil two large boxes of macaroni!! Divide among three pans ( 9x13 average size)

Add one can of chicken. Or use Tuna, left over rotisserie or even leftover turkey!!

Add a great cup of peas (or carrots).
Chop up of cheese chunks. I used Deluxe American.

Other ingredients include one can of cream of celery, and one can milk, black pepper and onion powder.

Freeze!!!--- then I thawed for about 3o minutes on the counter and baked for 45 minutes at 350. I did add some extra milk before baking....

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As for those two other pans of pasta. I made Pizza PAsta. Ill post that one later!

2010-04-28T21:56:00.001-04:00

My BABY has PINK EYE..
We have all had ear infections!!

My sweet husband had an upper respiritory infection!
OH MY!!

Our daughter has been moved to a new family. It is good. It is a good thing. It is sad, but it is good.

_____________________________

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Should I introduce myself again?!

2010-04-21T07:47:00.002-04:00

Hi, Im RACHEL.
Im a momma to 5 and babysitter to three more!!
LOL.
I feel like I have been gone from blogging for so long!!!

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Lil Man D and Toddler E are now in Preschool! I love the place! They are giving us such an incredible discount for being a foster family!! what a BLESSING!!

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After 6 or more weeks on her own OUr Miss C decided this was the place to be. She called and asked if she could come back! We did say yes, and there have been good and rough moments of course. We want her to know she has a family to back her up and help her making some good choices for life. She does age out of foster care in about 4 months!

________________________________________

Baby V is in the stages of starting to walk. GOOD thing! His therapist wants him in preschool as well once he is walking.

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We are doing fabulous on the potty Training side with Lil Man D.

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formspring.me

2010-04-16T08:47:00.001-04:00

Ask me anything http://formspring.me/mommarae

FIsh and Friends

2010-04-03T20:27:00.003-04:00

Aquarium with Abuela.
My mother was able to visit us during her schools Spring Break. Although she was here to care for the needs of Nana she managed to squeeze in a few days with us and we loved it! Here is a showing of our trip to the Aquarium.

Today we went to the beach

2010-03-16T18:34:00.002-04:00

Wee this is FUN

Holding on to mommy

Throwing Shells into the Ocean

Sweeet Sandy Toes

development.

2010-03-16T09:57:00.002-04:00

In no way do i consider myself a childcare expert. I do have between 3 and 4 developmental and behavioral experts in my home each month.

Now I have two boys I want to show off to you to today.

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Both boys had birthdays last october. "L" turned 1 and "E" turned 2.

"E" recieves weekly intervention. (in developmental tasks)

-- he can sign "more", "eat", "drink", and please

--he babbles in his own language

--he can follow tasks such as "clean up", and "put your shoes away"

--he will sit on the toilet and clap but will not pee.

-- he can take off his shoes, shorts , and socks.

-- he can on socks !!--we've been working on that!

--eats wonderfully neat and clean with fork , spoon , and open cup.

"L"

-- says "more, please, eat, mommy, daddy, (brother's name), snickers(dog name), elmo, poopoo, jesus, bye bye, hi, hola, go, 1, 2, 3, 10, banana, mik (milk), no, yes, thank you". he attempts to immitate any word you say to him. He also can sign.

-- tells me when he poops and runs to the bathroom even if it is too late and he pooped his diaper.

-- brings me books and makes sounds from that specific book.

-- randomly breaks into song : such as "eat , eat , eat apples and bananas...." or "OOo Ooo Oooahh ahhh (from disney channel)

--can not yet remove or put on clothing. attempts to though.

--will follow simple tasks such as put the ball back in the play pen, or come to the kitchen to eat.

--constantly seeks out "daddy"-- he must be his favorite person!! :)

-- too anxious to get at his meal that he by passes the fork and spoon.

Its incredible to see these two boys who are a whole year apart moving at such drasticly different paces. By the way --the one year old is taller than the two year old! both are roughly 24 lbs.
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I love hearing about the development of children that have had a lack of stimulation or have attachment disorders. It is amazing how much a little love and a LOT of consistency can change things...

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OUr daughter is still out there. SHe has been reassigned to a different home for when she is found to have time to recover and possibly even rehabilitate from her adventure.

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stay tuned. Im still here. reading your blogs.

Caramel White Chocolate

2010-02-25T21:33:00.002-05:00

Bread Pudding

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I made this recipes over a month ago... but i can still remember the taste! It was so scrumptious!

I had read on two blogs about some super yummy bread puddings.
One Being My First Kitchen and the other Food loves Writing.

SO I made my own!!

6 torn hot dog buns!!
3 eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 c sugar
1 tsp vanilla
6 chopped caramel
a handful of white chocolate chips

Pour all liquid ingredients over the buns and sprinkle on the caramel and chocolate...
BAke at 400 for about 30 minutes.
OH YUUUUUMMM.

I think bread pudding is so much fun because you can deck it out how you want it!
you can use brown sugar... or maple syrup.. or agave... you can use bagels or stale bread...
you can spice it up the way YOU like it

Still here

2010-02-24T20:25:00.003-05:00

We are still here!

Things have not been perfect but good thing I have a perfect God!

We are still awaiting news of our daughter. SHe is living with the homeless of the Tampa area. Two of the men she has been with have been arrested but she has eluded us.

She came home for less than 24 hours about 10 days ago. That was really rough. She did not want to be here!( yes, she was brought back here twice--not on her own free will)
There is definitely the allure of drugs involved here....

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The boys are well! I am well! Ive been trying to do preschool lessons daily!

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Now my deputy has a dislocated shoulder and a fracture in there somewhere. His pain has diminished some but the injury has yet to be repaired.

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I will be back soon!! with more of our family news and photos!!

-

A little Pain

2010-02-12T08:13:00.002-05:00

My deputy got tased last night... and his reaction was quite crazy-- he tore his rotator cuff. In quite a bit of pain!

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Also our daughter--- missing 8 days now...Prayers that she comes home... She did come home for a day last Monday... but she sure didnt want to be here...... SAdly...

I like TV

2010-02-09T21:19:00.002-05:00

what are some of your favorites?!

SO much to say

2010-02-02T10:37:00.003-05:00

But not sure how to say it all................
Friday : My friend Shanna arrived from Chicago...staying down the road a bit at Elizabeth's house.
Now Elizabeth and I were both roommates of Shanna..at different colleges..in different states... HOW unusual that we only live a bit apart today!

Now on this semi uneventful Friday a chain of events began to unfold... our daughter came home four hours late.... hmmm.

Saturday: Kumquat Festival in Dade City. The boys awakened around 6:30 and we ate breakfast and got ready to go. I asked daughter if she wanted to go but she said no. I told her she had to stay home ( as a consequence for the previous nite).

SO much fun at the festival!! I bought a super doooper fabulous apron!! from Mamie L designs

http://www.etsy.com/shop/mamieldesigns

I heard "WOW, you have your hands full" thirteen times.
And I had fun talking it up with Shanna and Elizabeth.

Shanna came home with me to spend some time with us.
On the way home we had a BLOW OUT! on I -75! in the RAIN! with 4 Kiddies sleepin!! and no MAN!

I called my sleeping husband an he jumped up to rescue us... however with in ten minutes a Florida Road Ranger stopped to change the tire!! He was like a hero! He was sweet and funny and so helpful!! As soon as he was done! Jacob showed up!! haha.. it was preetty funny. perfect timing I say!!

Back at home we made Vanilla sandwich cookies, Kumquat Chicken and Grilled pears.
ALl beautifully photographed over at FOOD LOVES WRITING by Shanna.

Now our daughter wasnt home when I arrived.... Infact she didnt come home until 7:30 looking like a guilty homeless wreck.... OH MY....

Shanna and I stayed up and watched some Lifetime and it was simply fabulous just having some friend time.

On Sunday: I get up to feed the boys and our daughter comes downstairs pronoucing that she is going out. I say no you are not. You need to stay in. She left anyways. I followed her the door and saw a young man in our yard. He saw me and started to run. Are you kidding me? Like Lil PUNK- you think Im gunna chase you???

Around 11 I decided to begin to report her a runaway and we completed that process around 5 pm.
We assumed she was with "him" and decided to see if any one by his name was also missing. Yes he had been reported missing the night before. Sadly he has quite an extensive record for such a young fellow... and is a registered sex offender...

Now matter what any one says.... "Oh, she is JUST your Foster child" doesnt help me feel better!!! In fact it makes me angry!

MOnday morning: My husband comes home from work , takes two boys to the doctor for shots while i stay home for the other two to have their in home therapy!

We attempt to settle down for a nap around 1, but we receive a tip and Jake takes off to find our daughter. He arrives home with her around 5. Not that she wants to be here... but she is here..and She is safe. and we are thankful for that... Yes there will be consequences and doctor appts.... but no one ever said life is easy....

She melted into my arms... with a myriad of apologies ....we hugged and i had her shower.... we all were in bed before 8 pm... this house was like Christmas eve by 8:30. we were all so exhausted!!

I am so thankful for the prayers from our friends. I am so grateful for the God who answers those prayers.... and I have so much more to be thankful for.....

mother daughter venture

2010-01-26T16:43:00.001-05:00

WHile I enjoy dishing out colorful snacks for the boys or making cars and tucks cakes (below), I decided to venture out with my daughter and sell Avon! All things girly!

We know it will be fun to sell the makeup and assorted goodies and earn some fun cash for things like pedicures and movies!

ViSiT OUr site here

ETSY love

2010-01-10T20:39:00.004-05:00

ROCK CITY

2010-01-09T12:06:00.006-05:00

WHile driving home from Illinois we had a wonderful rest stop at ROCk City- LookOUt Mtn. The address is Ga., but you access the mtn from Chatanooga. I hope you enjoy the pictures! they tell a better story than my words ever could!!

kiddies and daddy

I carried Baby V-- woo after hiking for over an hour my back was pretty tired :)

so fooggy out!!

Fat Man Squeeze!!!

Yes, we are back

2009-12-23T23:09:00.005-05:00

Even though I have not yet posted, we are HOME. We did have a wonderful time in Illinois!!
I am thankful for my husbands family's hospitality!!

Since we have been home we had a 4 hour clinic trip for all children to see the doctor!! PLus one needed to go to the ER--fever based.

We are all healing and God has graciously kept me healthy!!

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enjoy some SNOW pics.

Just SO much to SHare!

2009-12-17T10:06:00.004-05:00

Well this post is truly indicitive of the Blog Title.

Something to Blog about------------------------------------------

I have so MAny things to Blog about today!

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Today I blog from the Kitchen table at Grandma's house in Illinois. Two boys play in the play pen while the other two are sitting in a laundry basket playing with Barbies. Yes, Barbies. My daughter is sick with the flu as is my husband.

Before we left I made some CHristmas goodies!! Easy doctored up fudge from the condensed milk recipe. Cake mix Sugar cookies!! and some delicious Toffee. I think toffee is one of my favorite things to make! I love seeing the sugar get all carmalized....

Our trip to Illinois went well. About 20 hours of driving, Jacob drove the whole way!! HE is so good to us! We ate at Cracker Barrell, Subway, and Panera. We stopped ALOT due to myriads of poopy diapers. Our hotel has a nice complmentary breakfast.... For a family of 7 we only had an $80 hotel bill!! nice!! two cribs, two queens and a pull out bed....

I was SO happy this past Monday to see Shannalee from FoodLovesWriting. Not only is she an awesome blogger, she was an awesome college roommate, and continues to be and awesome friend. Yes, I intentionally overused that word Awesome :)

Here we are at Portillos where we enjoyed some YUMMY hotdogs--Chicago style.

the last one was wonderful

2009-12-11T08:48:00.002-05:00

But I have to admit that this one wont be filled with tales of a surreal day at the park.....

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The last few days have been overwhelming as I had such a hard time accomplishing things! I ran out of cash earlier this week, which was fine because I had yesterdays reimbursement check to look forward too... Surprisingly i got a $150 Christmas check in the mail on MOnday. I rushed out to the bacnk with all 5 kiddies and got tot he bank too late to deposit. I also could not remember my pin for the life of me so I went home unable to cash or deposit the check.....

Then... I hire a babysitter to help me out on wednesday so I could go to the doctor while my husband takes Lil MAn D to the orthpaedist.... She doesnt show.... SHe doesnt call.... I dont what happened?!!? we cancelled Lil MAn D's appt and I shorten my errand list to doc appt only....

I go to get my prescriptions.... Target is out of my regular meds... they say they will fax my doctor to come up with a solution. I go in the next day .... they had forgotten.... I head tot he Post office.. It doesnt open till 9... WHAT??? cant mail my packages....

Mail comes yesterday... No check....so I still need to pay my bills!!! and get gas and ready for trip....

Today-- second babysitter texts me.... is sick... cant come...

So Now I cant go to Get our WIC and i have to use my own money--which isnt even here yet-- to get formula...yes I am totally OUT of formula-- as of last night....

--------------------------------------

besides our fridge is on the fritz and doesn't seal so there is snow and condensation alll over it....
Just like one thing after the other!? what is up?!!?

==============================

I really hope we can leave for our vacation today.......I simply want to leave this week behind....everything went wrong...

EXCEPT--

Baby Lenny Took his first step.... he walked around all last night. I love watching him!!!!

today...

2009-12-01T20:37:00.004-05:00

...was simply the most wonderful of days!

our Little Family of 7 packed up the van and headed out to Busch Gardens!!

We arrived at opening time and wandered as we waited for Land of the Dragons to open. We shared a funnel cake. This area was perfect and I thoroughly enjoyed watching my little guys on the kiddie rides!!

All the boys giggled as we walked through the bird cage and they were flying so close!

We saw all three new Christmas shows.

OH we all had such a goood time and only spent money for our lunch meal!

well we did let LIl Man D make a squished penny!!

ok So I wish I could continue and describe out every detail of our day but I am ready to pass out! what FUN. Cant wait to do it again.

Its back to reality and 8 loads of laundry.... but it was so nice to escape out today!!

Trying New recipes

2009-11-30T17:15:00.003-05:00

for a family of 7.....

-----------------------------------------------

Tonight I am making Ham balls.... Those sweet and sour kind from allrecipes.com

-------------------------------

Creamed turkey has been really popular with the kiddos all month long!

I make a basic white sauce

1 stick butter
1/4 c. flour
milk
and black pepper

Then: I add canned or frozen veggies and chopped turkey peices........

I add more milk if needs more...

Put this goodness with noodles or rice and they all love it!!

It makes a good meal for hubs to take with him to school or jail as well!!

============================

Have you ever tried that pineapple casserole with Ritz crackers and cheese? Now i didn't make it but tried some at the family Thanksgiving and I liked it! yummo. the kiddos didn't so I wont be making here at home, but I was wondering if you have tried it?

=======================

This morning I made cheesy turkey quesadillas and they were so yum. I like using corn tortillas because they get all crunchy!! How do you make quesadillas at your house? I use the pancake griddle :)

-----------------

Oh I made this super delicious squash casserole for thanksgiving!!! topped with Nilla Wafers! OH YUM. SO yum!!! seriously try this!!! I used a pound of frozen squash and so there was no need for the cooking part at the beginning. I simply thawed and mashed it.

2009-11-25T12:03:00.001-05:00

Romantic Snow Globes by WiddlyTinks.com

2009-11-24T21:57:00.002-05:00

My Family from WiddlyTinks.com

some goings ons.....

2009-11-24T13:18:00.002-05:00

My daughter getting her Face painted when we went to the mall the other night :)

Yeah so... havent been to the movies in AGES.... bought all this.. LOL totally embarassed the daughter :).....

We saw Christmas Carol 3D. good show.

EMbarassing my daughter once again....by taking a picture of myself in the theater...

And this is what it looks like pretty much every day around here!! but theres not always so much sharing going on!!

HEy HEY.

2009-11-17T12:19:00.002-05:00

Im blocked from FaceBoook Today, this "routine maintenance has taken over 6 hours. boohoo. what to do?!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Well we had two case manager visits and the kiddos are down for a nap. I am still listening to the goos and gas of those not asleep yet....putting 5 toddlers to nap at the same time can be a challenge but as long as i have tired them out and filled their little bellies with yummy goodness we have success!

--------------which means nap for MOMMY too!!---------------

PoppaJake sleeps during the day time so we like to have a nice quiet 3 hours block of time around here... with no one coming or going....and the most minimal of noises....

This MOnths Forecast

2009-11-04T07:55:00.002-05:00

Some months are just tough aren't they?~
For us this month was a happy one yet financially a pain!

---------------------

Lil Man D broke his arm which meant he stayed home with me yet we still had to pay the $90 per week at his school. The car blew out and needed all new tires. We had three birthdays....

When all these little things add up it mades it tough to make that dollar stretch!

Yes I am blessed to receive some monies for the children I get to love on... but after diapers and milk and pediasure... its pretty much all gone!

--------------------

I am looking forward to this November! Here are some great things already happening
!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I bought two turkeys!! each one was 99 cents!!

I cooked one up and now have three freezer bags full of meat for the coming weeks menu!! SUggestions?! I was thinking Turkey Ala King and turkey corn chowder.....

I have WIC appts for the brothers so that will bring in much needed nutrition!!

Jacob has two days off this month which will allow him to be home for 5 days straight!!! StayCation Here we come!!!

Our Target Foster home goodies are coming through in the form of Zoo passes and Aquarium passes for the family!!!

LOOOK Creeepy APples!

2009-10-31T20:31:00.001-04:00

MmmMmMMMm........... so YUM

2009-10-27T10:27:00.001-04:00

As we try to learn colors I thought color coding the snacks would be a fun way to review!!

Lately, we have been enjoying more snacks and meals outdoors on the porch!! love it!

CrEePy jewelry!!

2009-10-27T10:19:00.001-04:00

Even I got in on the action!

Yes My Sweet boy broke his arm!! LAst week he just let go--let go of the swing.

Today at the Park

2009-10-22T20:45:00.002-04:00

we made leaf rubbings.

I liked the photo and wanted to share with you!!

Elizabeth is a new friend of mine and a long time friend of Shanna from FoodLovesWriting.

Shanna introduced us via facebook and we've been dating ever since. Play-dating that is.

Elizabeth made these crayons and had the idea for rubbings. How truly FALL and Fabulous!

Had A pArtY

2009-10-18T09:32:00.002-04:00

To Celebrate the Miracle of Births!

This is my very last year in my twenties.....

and My baby L just finished up his First year.

Our Little E turned two.

2009-10-14T15:06:00.003-04:00

Parents are in from Hawaii taking care of Nana.... and Poor Dad gets the flu. SO hes up there hugging on the toilet and trying to be a big help too. Phew what a vacay for them!

I have the boys sitting at the table eat Corn chex and drinking Juice. A safe snack for all involved... Allergen Boy include.

I do admit that having Jake work 12 hours shifts and go to school 8 hours a day on every day off takes its toll on him and on me as well. I do get easily discouraged since I dont see him very often.

i also seeem to have been forgotten by our various and sundry friends. BUt I get calls from Case managers and Therapists...SO I suppose someone wants to talk to me! LOL :)

All the kiddos love and need me and I love and Need them back. My heart is so full.
Now my house might not be so clean.. but my heart is so full....

2009-10-04T16:11:00.003-04:00

YES, I do have 5 children

Some of you mentioned that you missed that Post!
:) LOL. Sorry. With 5 kiddos I miss alot! I don't know what day of the week it is , but I sure do know if someone has a poopy diaper!!

Heres the Cast of our FAMILY DRAMA:

Poppa JAke-- the Deputy

Momma RAe-- the stay at Home

Miss C -- our future MAssage therapist

LIl Man D-- Preschooler age 2

Tiny E -- 23 months old

Baby L -- 11 months old

ChubbaBubba V- 8 months old

LIl Man D's mom is expecting in DEC..... Tiny and ChubbaBubba's mom is also expecting. ... Which mean..... After BabyBorn Staffing mtgs... that since they like to keep sibling groups together.. me may be getting a baby baby.. you know the ones from the hospital!! wow. never had a baby baby... you never know. Hopfully MOm will eb able to get her act together and have all her babies home.... you never know....

thats my life.... diapers, bottles, preschool, teen dating, more diapers, messy floors... :)

what i love about every day...........

2009-10-02T13:18:00.001-04:00

Tuesday Smooseday

2009-09-29T14:43:00.000-04:00

Hello Friends!
Momma Rae here!

All is well on the home front. We did have a vomiting incident yesterday, but it wasnt one of us.

All cleaned up and we are now on to bigger and better things. Daughter C and I went out for breakfast this morning while PappaJake watched the boys.

It was a nice time for us to chat without me laying down andy law... etc... First time parenting a teen has its challenges. But I love it , without a doubt.

Baby L will be Toddler L soon as he is moments away from walking! He is eating all food, but still bottling it a few times a day.

Our Toddler E has said French Fry!! WOW. Everything else pretty much sounds Chinese and he laughs so hard when i speak back to him in my version of Chinese.

Baby V is doing well and scooting around on the floor. He is 9 months. He does well brining foods to his mouth like banana, cheerios, and kix.

Lil Man D is now Preschooler D and he is learning the good and the bad there. We are struggling with biting, hair pulling, and slapping faces....

Daughter C will be starting MAssage Therapy this month! We are so proud of her. She seems to be thriving, for which I am glad.

PIcture DAy

2009-09-25T08:34:00.002-04:00

Holding on to Mommy's Skirts......

PLaying with the new IKEA chairs!!

Gotta Love JAce-- He is SO creative!!!

Naptime at Busch GArdens.........

Jace had the hots for this singer while at BG a few weeks ago.

Healing....

2009-09-19T22:44:00.003-04:00

Its been quite the week. Can I just say that i love being surrounded by little ones?!
I DO have enough love for ALL of them.

-----------------------------------------

My husband also has a lot of love to share. Despite what you may think each child is cared for and loved in this home.---

-----------------------

I have been questioned a lot this week and also encouraged!! I am so thankful for those who support Jake and I on this task of caring for the neglected.

Its hard to receive and look past comments that are continuously thrown our way. But as I cuddle with a little boy and them give a breathing treatment or fix a bottle, I am able to heal! Stick and Stones do break bones and Yes words do hurt me.

Words also heal me! A sweet new friend sent me a devotional this past week which brought tears to my eyes.

My daughters face full of thankfulness after a torturous OBGYN appt heals me.... The smiling face covered in dirt from the guy who wants to play so badly but cant walk yet..heals me.....

what heals you in your everyday life?

-------------------------

Its Official.

2009-09-14T21:34:00.002-04:00

Well we now have a name!
Our foster home is labeled! We are now officially a Target Foster Home.
We gets small bits of additional funding and fun monthly outings like Disney/ChuCK E Cheese/Movies etc....

++++++++++++++++++++

We also accept 5 or more children at one time. Catering to sibling groups.
I love it!

-------------------

By the way our foster home is named the "Rachel A------- Foster Home"

I love how they totally left my hubs out! LOL.

*************************************

Two boys joined us this evening! We now have a happy home with 5 children and YES OF course I still babysit!!
I am happy being surrounded by children and I do my best to keep them cool , calm , and collected although I sure have my moments!

I will accept and be thankful for any an all prayers that you send out this evening!

many thanks and snores.....

Would this bother you?!

2009-09-11T20:14:00.001-04:00

Or am I being sensitive.

My LIl Man D is in Pre-School.

Someone had a birthday party.

He came home with a USA themed goodie box...

Inside a mini plastic machine gun!!!!! WTH?!!?

Yes its ok to say "bad words" for something like this.

Its another Thursday Night here.

2009-09-10T21:45:00.003-04:00

This is a Fabulous BLOG. {stuffies}

And

I am going to borrow this book from a new friend.

and

I want to find a new item to sell on Etsy.
I am thinking of Mini Arts.

Mini Canvases with ABC's . . . mini paintings of lady bugs.... any other suggestions!?

Just a Walk in the Park . . .

2009-09-05T18:47:00.004-04:00

Eureka Springs Park

Popular wedding garden.

Sweet LIttle Boy

Looking at the pretty sights!

The Boardwalk.

This is what the boys and I did today with friends Kelly, Adam, and JAce :) PapaJAke was at School and Miss C was at the mall.

Hes a Sophomore!

2009-09-01T22:42:00.003-04:00

Lil Man D starts School tomorrow!!

Preschool for my LIl Man! :) His doctor gave him a referral for social development and what not. I enrolled him in our local church Preschool --Adventures in Learning. I am so glad that he will be learning Bible Stories and singing sweet praise songs.

Ill continue to watch Jace and Baby L during the day and pick up Lil MAn D before the Lady Deputy's girls get here.
By the way they are Kayla (3 yrs) and Kiley( 3 months). [They have been sleeping great for the most part!]

Lil Man D and Kayla and fast friends! +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

it was a long day for me......

2009-08-31T19:55:00.003-04:00

6:45 -- wake up and get kiddos ready for appt at the Growth Clinic.
9:00 Realize I am lost and not in Tampa anymore-- Call Growth CLinic.
9:30 Show up late for appt.
{get told BabyL has gained 3 lbs since being in my care and is no longer failure to thrive!!!}
11:30 show up really really late for the PreSchool tour.
12:30 get home and get a call from my daughter that she needs to be picked up at the mall.
1:30 pulling in from getting daughter and get a call that my food Pantry order is ready for pick up.
2:00 pick up order
{realize that ordering 8 popcorn meant 8 cases of popcorns!!!!!!}
2:30 get home and unload such 8 cases of popcorn, 12 boxes of mocha m&m's , 10 Kashi pizzas, 6 gallons of lemonade, 12 bags of Smartfood popcorn.....
3:00 get kids down for nap
4:30 Lady Deputy drops off the girls for the night
5:30 entertain babies and such..
6:00 feed them dinner
7:00 clean up from a crazy messy meal and clean up popcorn. Of Course we had POPCORN!!
7:30 bath time for the boys
8:00 movie for the older two and babies in cribs....

Now-- sitting down with some icetea and a small pouch of those mocha M&M's.....

Feeling forgotten...

2009-08-28T14:30:00.003-04:00

Its how we all live.... wrapped up in our own little worlds, worrying about our own little problems.... very easy to feel forgotten.

Yes I might feel needed, because people need things from me .... needed and remembered are different.... Many people take things for granted... I have felt taken for granted lately... Dont we all?

I think that all these phases are my life are for a great purpose. I know that, but it doesnt make feeling forgotten any easier!

I know there are others feeling this way. I noticed someones facebook status making similar remarks last week.
------------------------------------------

Yes, I know I have only been a stay-at-home mom Since June 3rd, and it has drastically changed my life. .. .. I know I need to give it time....

Im dropping my daughter off at the Mall tonite.... She will either hitch a ride home on the bus or from a friend.... Its kinda fun having a girl around.. I like it! She is a pretty good help too.
Especially if Baby L wakes up from nap early SHe will let me rest for a few more minutes and play with him!

-------------------------------------

2009-08-26T22:24:00.002-04:00

Isnt Money kind of a funny thing!?

The more you have the problems show up... or at least as you start to fix or buy theings you "need".... the money disappears!

Sometimes I dont understand the phrasing if "Watching God provide" because we DO an awful of or work to get the money. I do know however that it is God who has given me this desire to foster and hence the money.... It is God who allows Jacob to have his job.. hence the money... It is God who has kept him alive to pass probation and get his pay raise....

well theres my midnight thoughts.... GNITE...

2 things today

2009-08-25T07:59:00.001-04:00

MY NEW 04 Honda Odyssey!!

What a good lil boy sitting in time out for hitting mommy looks like. LOL...

arts and crafts and three cute boys. . .

2009-08-22T16:23:00.003-04:00

My three Boys-- Baby L, Jace, and Lil Man D watching the thunderstorm. Now Jace and Lil Man D are exactly one year apart. Look how close they are in height!
--------------------------------------------------

A Florida themed Whimsey JAr i recently made!!
Here are the "Floridy" items I out inside:
Summer Fun themed ribbons and brad, sunglasses, a football pen (GO BUCS), summer stickers, orange gum and orange drink mix, tropical mentos, and a Busch Gardens sticker....
What would you put in to respresent your state?

---------------------------------------

So you have seen my tiny matchboxes.... and Now i want to show you some of my favorite ATC's. Now these have been made FOR me not BY me. The ones i have made have been sent off.

I have three kids.

2009-08-22T09:23:00.002-04:00

You all know Baby L and Lil Man D.

--------------------

Let me introduce Miss C! Miss C is 17 years old, finished with school and looking for a job. She wants to get a degree in massage therapy and seems to be a really good fit for our family.

-----------------------

We had a welcome dinner out last night to Buffalo Wild Wings. yummo.

Today Jacob is at school all day but we are planning to go swimming at the YMCA. Love that place.

+++++++++++++++

By the way! this morning Baby L said "ma ma"

awwww..............

how does their mind work?

2009-08-21T12:38:00.001-04:00

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Jake had to take Lil Man D to the doctor yesterday after a small head injury... ok yes SMALL.. but we have to document everything soo... you know...

When he gets home he runs up to me all talking about his head and his lollipop. I asked him " What did the doctor say?"

He looked really confused , then smiled.

He started singing. "No more monkies jumping on the bed".

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Update

2009-08-19T21:22:00.002-04:00

Baby L
------------------------------

* can eat from a spoon but prefers to grab the end with the food ON it

* Climbs the stairs with no help

* becoming a BIG laughter boy

* Loves jumping in the the bouncy seat

* likes to repeat sounds we make ."da. na, brrrrp, etc"

* takes magnets of the fridge and deposits them at other locations around the house

* likes to eat cheerios, little Puffs, cheese, tomatoes, cookie crumbles, and more!

Lil Man D
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

*Early Steps Eval tomorrow to see if he can get Speech help

* will be going to preschool most likely next month!

* calling us mommy and daddy

* still not interested in potty training

* the best clean up helper ever!

* actually sitting/standing through movies like Finding Nemo

* requests to watch Animal BAnd 5 times a day

* tells me to call 9-9-1 if theres a fire

* love to make farting sounds with the duckies in the bath and then laugh so hard he farts himself ....OoO bubbles.....

HullO

2009-08-19T12:28:00.001-04:00

Sometimes I like to have Lil Man D help me put away the laundry!

I usually send him with piles of bibs or rags.. etc...

++++++++++++++++++

So the other day I ask him to take the pile of washclothes to his bathroom upstairs. Later, at bathtime, I go in to see he had neatly UNFOLDED them all and placed them over the tub, toilet, stool, etc.....

----------------------------

quite Lovely and Colorful if you ask me!

cuties... hard at work!

2009-08-17T09:48:00.001-04:00

Not just a pet Peeve a BIG ole Peeve!

2009-08-15T16:23:00.002-04:00

So most of us have our little pet peeves......
Growing up on GUam it was just NORMAL for everyone to take their shoes off before coming indoors.... I didnt really know people ever wore shoes inside!

========================

SO here I am wondering why people don't pay attention to my big ole sign!?!?
Like obviously I take it seriously?!

-------------------

We walk on our shoes in public restrooms and along the street.... down the store aisles and through fast food restaurants!!

GROSS!! you wanna bring that onto my floor where the babies crawl!?!??!

++++++++++++++

So I just ordered disposable shoe covers and I will MAKE anyone who wants to wear their shows insides wear them!!! LOL and they are SO UGLY!! HAHAHHAHA.. I love it!!!! they will be miserable for not following MY HOUSE RULES....

----------------------------

a funny

2009-08-14T19:08:00.002-04:00

Momma "SO LIl Man D are you going to grow up and get a girlfriend and kiss her?"

LIl Man D " NO ALL I need is Elmo"

=====================

Momma " I need to go potty"

LIl MAn D " Oh , You poopooed in your diaper?"

++++++++++

TIME OUT

2009-08-13T17:57:00.003-04:00

Each Month our foster Parent Association gives us 4 hours of respite. We drop the children off and can pick them up in four hours.. one Saturday a month.. Kinda nice! well.... I dont get it this month.. cause the infant/ toddler room filled up too quickly. :( boo hoo.

-------------------------

Good thing Love being with kids ALL THE TIME :)

++++++++++++++++++++

Seriously-- other than the funeral... I haven't been apart from them... since the last respite.... lat month. LOL... :)
oh oh and CHURCH...

--------------------------------

Jacob works 12 hours overnight shifts... PLus on his days off he has class (way off in another county) for 8 hours.... so I dont think its appropriate to ask him for free time.

so HEY MOMS.
do you ever get time by your self?

+++++++++++++++

I love the 8-10 time slot!! I shower/bathe... watch HULU..... eat a snack or dinner if I havent yet...

-----------------

And Yes, when I pee, 9 times out of 10 there are tiny fingers coming through under the dooor. :)

============

2009-08-13T11:24:00.001-04:00

SO here I am !

Baby L has been "evaluated" and has no real developmental delays! YEAH.

I am busy with baby watching and loving...... doing my art and swapping.... cleaning my house....

and such........

What have you been up to?

2009-08-08T23:45:00.002-04:00

Im here.

My cousin Gwen passed away. I dont like seeing those that I love being in pain.
My prayers are with my Tia BArb and Tio Timm as I know they are hurting.

I pray for Gwennys daughters and husband.... A month ago at the family reunion they showed nothing but love to the 4 children I had brought.... the children didn't know how to act properly yet no one showed them any less love. My extended family is beautiful....

------------------------

Look Mom! I climbing the stairs!

2009-08-03T18:51:00.001-04:00

I just thought this was cute when I came around the corner. It's his new favorite hangout.

--------------

HOly Water

2009-08-01T17:10:00.002-04:00

HAve you ever been SomeWhere and felt like there was a presence of hate and evil. I feel like has crept into our home.... Even after SchoolBoy left I felt a lingering presence....

My mind is replaying what feels like nightmares from a B rated movie! LOL.

I wish I could use words the way some people do to properly express how I feel . . . .
Im trying to bring positive thinking, songs and praise into the home today....

I'm not Catholic but I almost feel like I need the pope to sprinkle around some holy water....

-----------------------

Still standing

2009-07-31T20:47:00.002-04:00

Well actually lying down ...but you get the Idea....

----------------------------

SchoolBoy has moved on . I let him know I loved him as he threw out his worst hate lines...

my Lil Man D is staring at the holes in our wall as I explain those were "bad choices"... he quietly says OH...

------------------------------

Im crying because I feel like a failure even if i KNOW that Im not.... Lil Man D covers his heart and says Oh MommaRae..Oh MommaRae.... over and over in his sweetest voice....Ive cried more these last two days than I have all year!

My husband has been peed on, spit on, chased down by a screwdriver and put up with it all like a gentleman.

--------------------

Would I give up foster parenting? not a chance.........

:::