We Are Alive...

After my sister-in-law sent a post to my facebook, I realized that I had totally forgotten to let anyone know we had survived our drive and arrived safely.

There are so many stories to tell... and I am just so bogged down with the work of cleaning and moving and cleaning and storing... My Dad's stuff is in the house with all of our stuff at the moment...  Which means there is a lot of stinking stuff in this house!

We are s.l.o.w.l.y. getting things in order.  We have managed to clean one bathroom, the dining room and the girls room.  This is a monumental task!  I know that single men would not understand... but a woman wants their home to be a home!  I can't wait until this one is transformed into something resembling that again.

The kids are in heaven!  They are running, playing, digging, riding tractors and horses and playing in the trees... They come in at night completely covered in dirt... worn out!  They are glad to get into beds... which were sleeping bags on the newly cleaned floor.... until today.  My husband is putting beds 3 and 4 together right now.  He has been working so hard.

You guys!  My son-in-law called me last night to see how things were going!  Isn't that the coolest thing ever?  Besides being able to say my son-in law... I just love that he called and chatted with me.  He is the BEST!  You guys just don't even understand the depth of our love for him!

My brother is coming up tomorrow for a short visit.  I haven't been able to see him in 2 1/2 years!  That is a long time.  We talked nearly every day of that time, but seeing him will be amazing!

I am so impressed with the help we have had from the kids.  They are tired, but they are lifting, moving... whatever is needed they do.  They are an amazing bunch of human beings!

We learned our first lesson when we had been unpacking the first day.  Mark became very sick suddenly.  After hearing what he was feeling, I was pretty sure he was dehydrated... big time.  I made him drink a bunch of water and lay down.  After sleeping for a couple of hours and drinking a lot of water he was feeling a lot better...  Now we work for an hour or so and then make everyone drink water and rest in the cool house for about 20 minutes.  That man scared me!

Raider is adjusting to being an outside dog.  He did manage to open the front door one night and slept next to my dad... hahahahaha.  That is a smart dog!

Okay,  I can hear my peeps needing their mama to wrangle them a bit.  I can't wait to start posting some photos, but I can't upload right now.  I am using my Dad's computer. 

I hope your hot days of summer are as blessed as mine have been.  I can't wait to be able to share some of our adventure with you...

Your Own Family Tree...

After the wedding...

and the marathon clean up session

(that the entire family plus some jumped right in to help with)

The real fun began!

Limbo Baby!

The beautiful smiling lady that you see in the photo is my sister-in-law, Debbie.

If you need a job done...

ask Debbie.

If you need an encouraging word...

ask Debbie.

If you need something creative...

(a beautiful wedding cake, hair and makeup, necklaces made for little girls, etc)

ask Debbie.

If you need someone to set up, tear down, clean up...

ask Debbie.

In fact, you don't even have to ask...

If she can see a job that needs to be done, she is there!

She was the rock of this wedding!

I really believe that.

She was EVERYWHERE.

She may not even realize all of the ways I look up to her...

but I do.

I love her, appreciate her...

and wouldn't trade her for anything!

Thanks for being such an amazing lady!

Isn't it interesting that when you take a good hard look around for people to admire and emulate...

You don't need to look any farther than your own family tree.

Maybe we should all do that more often.

Tandem Bike...

Is this the cutest photo or what?!

I love that Emily spent time the night before painting cans and making a sign for her tandem bike.

She rocks!

I am missing my newlywed darlings today...

But, I am sure they are having the time of their lives!

Man...

Do I ever wish I had great wedding photos like these!

Hoped and Prayed For...

Today is a very special day.

Happy 19th birthday, Cheyenne!!!!!!!

This is a photo from our oldest daughters wedding.

It was interesting watching Chey interact with her newly married sister.

There has always been so much rivalry between the two... born less than 2 years apart.

You knew they loved each other, but the competition was intense.

Cheyenne has always felt the need to prove that she was as "good" as Cadi.

What she never realized, was that she always was exactly what she was intended to be...

The perfect Cheyenne she could possibly be.

19 years...

This is your last year as a teenager, baby.

I love you so very much!

I hope this year brings you everything you have hoped and prayed for.

That's just what I got on this very day... 19 years ago!

yard sale...

Sorry that I didn't post anything today, but I am outside with the crew doing the moving sale thing.

It is hot and busy... on a wednesday!  Who woulda thunk it?

yard sale...

Sorry that I didn't post anything today, but I am outside with the crew doing the moving sale thing.

It is hot and busy... on a wednesday!  Who woulda thunk it?

Two Moms...

What a whirlwind a wedding is.

I don't remember my wedding being quite so... busy!

I'm sure it was...

That was just a long, long time ago.

One of my favorite things from the wedding happened about 45 minutes before the ceremony began.

We had been at the park taking photos with the photograper...

gone through the rigors of hair, makeup, etc for a multitude of young ladies...

We arrived back at the church and the lovely Kelsey once again set upon Cadi with the hair and makeup treatment.  When that was finished, Cadi asked me if I would like to see the Cake (made lovingly and beautifully by her Aunt Debbie).

Of course I wanted to see the cake!

We headed off to the reception room (which was Gorgeous!).

I walked in and oooh and awwed over the room and started to mention the amazing cake when I noticed a picture frame with a lily laying in front of it...

It was a picture of my mother...

I was missing her so much that day.

She had talked so many times about seeing her grandchildren walk down the aisle...

especially Cadi... her first grandchild.

I tried so hard to hold myself together for Cadi's sake, but the tears just started to flow.

It meant so much to me that Cadi had wanted her Grandma Lee to be a part of her special day...

That is when my other mom stepped in...

This is my mother-in-law.

Really?

No, this is my other mother.

She has been such a special lady in my life.

For Cadi's day alone  she made 7 dresses, a necklace, decorations, ideas, ideas, ideas.

This day would NOT have been so successful without her loving touch.

I love that when a job needed to be done, she just jumped right in there!

At that moment, while I tried to hold myself together for my daughter, she wrapped her arms around me...her daughter... and told me it was okay to cry...

So I did.

But, it wasn't just because my own mother wouldn't be sitting beside me while we watched our beautiful Cadi marry her best friend...

It was because I was so thankful that my other mother would be sitting beside me watching our beautiful Cadi marry her best friend.

She should know that even if I didn't have the words in that moment to tell her how thankful I am for her...

 I don't let one single day go by without thanking God that she has been such a huge part of my life.

And I am so thankful that she was there, next to me, to witness this new beginning for Cadi and Galen.

Wedding pic...and exhaustion...

What an amazingly fun wedding!

I am so tired I really don't know how we will get this packing finished...

That's okay, though.

Somehow things always manage to work themselves out.

There are sooooo many people that I feel the need to thank...

Hopefully you guys know who you are...

Our family is amazing and I thank God for them daily!

Without you...

well, let's just not go there, okay?

I have so many stories to share, but for now I will just have to leave you in suspense.

Maybe this evening I will get a chance to sit for a spell and share.

The picture at the top is from Emily Loftus Photography...

Emily, I miss ya already and can't wait to see the rest of the photos!

This sneak peak was not nearly enough!

Summer Days...

Our lives these days are very busy.

Packing, packing and more packing.

We only have a few days until we will drive away from here into a new adventure.

My house fills up daily with boxes...

Which get moved into the garage in the evening.

(if I'm lucky)

However, sometimes I have to take a small break to reaquaint myself with my smallest children who have had to see their trampoline, playhouse and swingset taken down in readiness for the move.

I think icecream cones are a great way to not only spend a hot afternoon, but a little family time.

In the midst of all of our business, it good to remind ourselves that all is good!

Miranda signs all of the boxes she packs with a smiley face...

It just makes me happy when I see it.

I hope your summer days are filled with icecream cones, family and smiley faces...

There will be wedding photos as soon as I can find the time.

I can't guarantee that will be before the move though.

We'll see.

6 days until the move...

And Now for the Finale...

Back to packing!

I promise to share wedding pics as soon as I can find a few moments...

Please don't hate me if I take some time to catch my breath...
while taking care of a large family...
and packing for the big move next weekend!

What a blast!

The Final Countdown...

I know...

I know...

You feel like this wedding has been coming for years...

And in a real sense, it has.

I have never known two people who were so suited for each other!

Shhhh...

Don't tell, but I called this one about 8 years ago.

They would never believe me, but it's true.

Today in just a few short hours my daughter will stand beside the young man I always said I wanted my own son to be like... if I had birthed a son back then... but now that I have, I surely say it!

Galen, you have a big responsibility...

That little boy will be looking up to you...

He already does!

Between you and his Daddy, you will be training a little boy to become a man.

That is something I can't do alone.

And someday he will stand beside his bride...

just like you are today.

I can only pray that his brides family will love him as much as we love you!

God bless you, Mr. and Mrs. Schmidt!

Ladies and Gentlemen...

I give you...

Galen and Cadi Schmidt!

Tomorrow...

Today is the rehearsal!

It seems like yesterday that I was at my own wedding rehearsal...

You remember...

super short shorts on guys and girls...

Big huge sunglasses...

Big frilly wedding dresses with long trains........

Yeah, I'm glad we aren't back there too!

This is soooooo excited, you guys!!!!

How is it possible that this girl... who thought she wanted her ashes scattered over the spice bus (spice girls, people... come on!)...

turned into this young lady...

And then found a best friend who... tee hee hee... was afraid to even give her a real hug the last time they were EVER going to see each other because we were moving away!

Look how far apart they were!

Growing up is hard tooooo do....

Yes, I'll admit it.

I am a little teary today.

The little girl has become a woman...

and she found her prince charming long ago...

This is it people!

Tomorrow my little girl becomes...

A Wife!

1 Day until the BIG wedding EVENT!

Leaving...

And.........

We're........

OFF!

Taking off today for a few days...

While we add a new son to the family.

If you think of us...

Say a prayer.

Thanks!

2 DAYS UNTIL THE BIG WEDDING EVENT

Yeah...

Busy days. 

I know.

I've been saying that for weeks.

However, the wedding is almost here.

We are taking off tomorrow and can't wait to see our oldest daughter.

We are trying to pack up this entire house.

We are trying to find some time to throw in a yard sale because we have furniture and beds and baby stuff and... well, you get it.

So, that is why there are no pictures in this post.

I had high hopes of uploading some recent photos...

yeah.........

didn't happen.

3 Days Until the Big Wedding Event

Meeting a Challenge...

Aubrey is really showing herself as a leader these days.

I am so proud of the way she jumps into a challenge and meets it head on.

Way to go, Aubs!

4 Days Until the Big Wedding Event

Saying Goodbye...

Yesterday, we said goodbye to our church family.
It was very difficult and emotional.
A few of our closest friends were very difficult to say good bye to.

Just now, literally moments ago, we had to say goodbye to Nate.
Our little sunshine guy.

Saying goodbye is never easy...

...even when you know that God has a great and amazing plan in store for your family.

Bike Accident...

Men Drivers!

5 Days Until the Big Wedding Event

Countdown...

My back is hurting so bad today.

We (Which translates to I)  have been packing like crazy and now I am feeling claustraphobic due to my husband not moving these boxes out to the garage yet.

My kitchen is done except for a few items I absolutely need to cook with while we are still here.  My living room is 90% done.  My family room is 90 % done.  We haven't touched the office area.  The girls are sllllooooowwwlllyy working on their bedrooms.  I have done Brysen's room.  The babies are all packed and ready to go on Monday or Tuesday.  I have begun in our bedroom, but that is a huge job.  Oh and the garage has been sorted.  We have a huge pile of some really nice stuff to sell... if I can find a day to have a yard sale. 

That may be a really big IF........

Don't forget... we leave in a couple of days for our oldest daughter's wedding.

Crazy... That is the only way to explain my life right now.

6 Days Until the Big Wedding Event

Miranda...

Miranda leading a group at vbs...

Miranda is one of those amazing people who is good at so many things.

She plays the guitar like a pro.

She loves Jesus with her whole heart.

She is great with kids.

She is one of those people who can think of a fun activity on the fly...

and the kids love her for it.

It doesn't matter if those kids are her younger siblings or kids at church...

They just love her.

So do I!

7 Days Until the Big Wedding Event

Full...

Full of mischief and adventure...

Full of laughter and jokes...

Full of hugs and kisses...

Sometimes he's just full of it!

8 Days Until the Big Wedding Event

Pure Fun...

That's Brysen.

Laying on top of a balloon.

Why?

He was trying to pop the balloon.

Effective?

Not really.

Fun?

Oh yeah!

With the help of a stick he finally managed to pop that balloon.

The reward?

Fun!

Pure fun.

9 Days Until the Big Wedding Event

Smiling...

Is there anything that warms a parents heart like a big old smile on your child's face?

I love the joy on Ari's face.  She is having so much fun... with a stick!

It reminds me to keep things simple.  They don't need (or really want)  all of those expensive toys and gadgets.  Now, don't get me wrong.  We have a lot of toys around this place.  However, they have more fun with buckets, shovels and dirt than anything else!

Keep smiling, sweetie...

It makes mama's heart sing!

10 Days Until the Big Wedding Event

To a Tee...

Yes...

That is my second born...

Playing the crazy river woman at vbs.

It is funny how many people told me that the part fit her perfectly!

Ha ha...

She did a great job.

...and the part really did fit her to a tee.

Also, I just wanted to say that someone commented recently that they hope they are as excited as I am about their daughters wedding when the time comes...

I hope so too!  I have heard so many horror stories about families that just can't stomach their childs intended.  We are so blessed that we have loved him as long as Cadi has... even longer really!

11 Days Until the Big Wedding Event!

Family Visit...

We had family stop in for a quick visit last night.

It was so nice to stop packing for a bit and just visit.

They left this morning on their way back to California.

..... now I think I don't have any excuses not to pack........

WAIT!  Does the lawn need to be mowed?!


12 Days Until The Big Wedding Event...

Countdown...

13 Days until the big wedding event...

Never Ending Hole...

 Aubrey and friends

... checking out the never ending hole in the tree trunk.

With all of the packing we are having to do... double time... it is nice to see the kids get to just hang out and be kids.  I am sure that when this move is over we will be so tired!  In fact, I am already tired... but it is a good tired.

13 days until the big wedding event...

No Pressure...

My beloveds...

Every single day that passes means we are a day closer to the BIG EVENT!!!

I am starting to bubble over with excitement and joy...

I know, I know...

I should be talking about these two...

but...

I am really excited for US!

We are the ones who are benefitting from this union...

Not only do we get to see our oldest daughter step into a new life...

but we get to officially call Galen our son!

(not that he isn't already, but it will be official... have I said all of this before?  Yes?  Well, I mean it!)

This is so exciting.

I was looking through pictures this morning and was pleasantly surprised at how much of our lives have entertwined with Galen and his family.

My other daughters are doomed...

When they bring home a young man for us to "check out"...

he will have a lot to live up to!

...... but, no pressure.....

14 Days Until the Big Event...

Moving...

Yes, it is true!

We are moving at the end of the month...

We are very excited to get back to the farm...

The kids are jumping for joy!

Now, we just have to pack and pack and pack and............

Summer Days...

Our church just finished up our yearly vacation Bible school (vbs).

The kids had a blast... the wind blew, it sprinkled... and fun was had by all.

They made crafts, sang songs, danced around, learned Bible stories, at yummy food, played games... and so much more!

I hope you are all enjoying your summer vacation as much as we are.

By the way...

15 days until the big event!

Yesterday..

So tired today.  We had a marathon garage cleaning session yesterday... as in, we were out there for 9 hours going through everything... we ended up taking 3 truck loads to the dump.

After that long day, I took 5 of the kids to vbs where they did their thing and I photographed the event.  When I got home, I could hardly see straight... I gladly fell into my bed where I once again couldn't fall asleep right away, but I did manage that within about an hour.

When Brysen woke my up this morning... I told you I was tired... I could hardly open my eyes.  Maybe I will get a nap later... Oh, who's kidding... I can't stand naps! 

Never gonna happen.........

16 days until the big event!