The Elders Family

Fulfillment

2009-12-11T06:11:00.000-08:00

"Your needs and My riches are a perfect fit.

I never meant you to be self sufficient. Instead, I

designed you to need Me not only for daily bread but also

for fulfillment of deep yearnings. I carefully crafted your

longings and feelings of incompleteness, to point you to

Me. Therefore, do not try to bury or deny these feelings.

Beware also of trying to pacify these longings with lesser

gods: people, possessions, power."

"Come to Me in all your neediness, with defenses down and

with desire to be blessed. As you spend time in My presence,

your deepest longings are fulfilled. Rejoice in your neediness,

which enables you to find intimate completion in Me."

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

I don't know about all of you, but I find it hard especially at Christmas to focus on Him! I know that sounds crazy because I know and believe the true meaning of the season, but I still get bogged down with the ways of the world. I love all of the things that coincide with this time of year: the candy making, the decorating, Christmas programs, and holiday gatherings. These are all great ways to celebrate our Savior's birth, but come second to the one thing that can fulfill all your needs. I pray for myself this holiday season that I celebrate. That I make the candy, decorate the house, go enjoy the Christmas programs and laugh with family at the holiday gatherings, but before all of those things, I pray that I whole-heartedly fill myself with Jesus Christ and allow Him to complete me! I pray the same for all of you.

Merry Christmas! Enjoy and celebrate that His riches and our needs are a perfect fit!!

Adios for now!

2009-11-10T05:13:00.001-08:00

Hi all! I just wanted to let you know that I don't think I'll be blogging for awhile. I still love reading everyone else's though! Have a great day!

Random Happenings

2009-10-15T06:30:00.000-07:00

I don't have anything specific to write about, but since I haven't updated my blog since AUGUST, I thought I should let you know what was happening in our lives. Here's a few snapshots to update you:

Eli's buddy Kooper gave him this hat a few weeks, maybe even months ago. We go thru phases, but usually this hat is on his head! He sleeps with it on, plays with it on, rides in the car with it on, all while telling everyone he meets, "This my friend Kooper's hat. My friend Kooper give me this hat!" Thanks, Koop!

This is not a typical pose for these 2. They LOVE to always be with each other. They have to know where the other one is, BUT they fight like crazy!! You know what I'm talking about, "he's touching me!" "Sophia not sharing!" and even as I type this, "Eli yelled at me!" I'm told that this is pay back for how my husband Todd and his younger sister, Sara fought with each other. Thanks, Todd and Sara!

It's inevitable. All kids do it at least once, right? Well, it still nearly brought me to tears. Sophia, gave herself a haircut!!

So we went to my cousin Sarah for an emergency new cut for Sophia.

I would NEVER tell her this, but I'm almost glad she cut her hair! Her new cut is so cute and soooo much easier!

Madelyn's first day of 3rd grade

Standing by her new classroom. This year she has Maestra Suero.

Best buds Sophia and Kennedy.

Sophia's first day of preschool. She has Maestra De Leon. She goes 3 afternoons a week and loves it!!

Standing outside her classroom

We decided it was time to put a sidewalk out front. I forgot to take "after" pictures, but will update you soon.

Thank you, Vruggink, Bros!

The kids LOVED to watch the men working!

Todd and I needed a little break this fall, so we went to Chicago for 2 nights without kids!! We went with good friends of ours, Tim and Dawn and had an awesome time! It's definitely something we want to do again.

Todd and I in Chicago

I watch my niece, Ellie every once in awhile which is so much fun! She's definitely a ball of energy and is hilarious to watch! She may be a little mischievous sometimes, as my kids are. This day I told Ellie and Eli NOT to play in the pile of dirt (left over from the sidewalk). Maybe they didn't hear me?!?!

My sister, Lisa and I had the privilege of helping to coordinate a premiere this September for the next video in the That The World May Know Faith Lesson Series. It was an amazing night and we could feel God's presence there. We also were able to work with Amanda from TIG. SO much fun!!

Todd and I at the premiere which was held at Holland Christian

Sophia went on her first field trip last week to Teusinks Farm. It was a little rainy and cold, but the kids did great and we all had a good time. Here she is deep in conversation with Silas.

On the hayride. Luckily we had a covered wagon to ride on and we didn't get wet!

Sophia riding the pony. Some of the kids were a little fearful, but not Sophia!

Sophia's class with their teacher Maestra De Leon (right), and her assistant Maestra Haak.

This was about as enthusiastic as Sophia got about petting the animals. ONE finger! :)

The kids are growing up so fast!

2009-08-20T17:01:00.001-07:00

It started out like any other night. We ate supper, or Todd and I did while the kids picked at their plates for almost a minute before begging to get down and go play. After Todd and I finished eating, we started cleaning up the kitchen while the kids cleaned up their toys in the other room. After our chores were done (for the most part), Todd went outside to "putter" and the kids followed him outside to play. A few minutes later, I looked outside and Todd was working on our old van. A few months ago, it blew a gasket or something of that nature and was going to cost more to fix than it was worth, so we got a new van. Todd asked one of his buddies if the old clunker could be welded back together to which his friend said sure! $50 later we had a very unreliable, and barely road worthy vehicle but it was driveable. Todd has been using it to go to and from work. Today when Todd got home he said that the back door wouldn't open or close, so he was going to work on it after supper, which he did. After while, Sophia got sick of being outside and came in while the other 2 continued to play outside. As I'm wiping off the table, I hear an ear-piercing scream from Madelyn. She was screaming, "Daddy!!!!" I ran to the window and watched as our van, back hatch wide open, rolled quickly down the driveway and headed right toward the barn doors. I thought Todd was driving too fast especially while the kids were outside and didn't know why Madelyn was screaming about it.....until I noticed that no one was in the drivers seat...wait, what is that? A tuft of light brown hair was just visible over the steering wheel. Yup, ELI!!!!!!!! I watched as he backed right into the barn, the big steel door now laying on top of the van as the vehicle came to a hault. I ran outside as fast as I could not realizing the pain I was inflicting on my feet by running over gravel with barefeet. Just as I reached the van, Todd was pulling Eli from the driver's seat.

"Is he ok?" I asked, desperate for an immediate response.

"Yes, he's fine" Todd answered, just as relieved as I was.

"Thank you, Lord!" Thank you for watching over my baby tonight! Thank you for making Sophia come inside and play so that she was not a target on Eli's wild ride. Thank you that Madelyn was swinging and singing to herself and not in his path either.

Whew!!! Some of you may be asking why we would leave a car running with children playing around it? Well, we didn't. For some reason, this van, a '96, does not have the safety feature that most cars now do. You don't have to push on the break to get the car out of gear. You can simply pull down on the shifter and put the car in drive, or reverse, or nuetral! Yikes!!

I knew that it would be just a blink of an eye and my kids would be all grown up and driving, but this was ridiculous! :)

Here comes the rain

2009-08-08T09:39:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning to the sound of raindrops. With the rain soon came thunder and lightening. Most people might consider this a gloomy day, especially in the midst of the summer season, but I love a good rain shower. It reminds me of when I was little and a storm would come. I'd go outside underneath a metal rooftop and listen as the rain fell. My Mom would tell me stories of her going outside and watching storms come in with her Dad, a man I met, but don't remember.

Now that I've grown up into an "adult", I still can't help soaking up the sights and sounds that bring back those memories. In a strange way it also makes me feel so blessed. God has blessed me with a home to be safe, dry and warm in during the storm....and has filled this home with a wonderful family. Thank you God for giving me everything that I need to survive the storm outside and the "storms" that may come in my life. I am so thankful!

"Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants." Deuteronomy 32:2

"The Chimney"

2009-08-06T15:19:00.000-07:00

I'm writing this post especially for my Dad. Tonight at supper time, Sophia wanted to pray, and she did. She thanked God for the food and for her family and for being able to go to Ellie's house and play today. As he does every time Sophia does anything, Eli wanted to pray too. So bowed his head and prayed (with his eyes SOOO tight and hands folded). He thanked God for "food, famy (Eli for family), Grandma house, and push chimney....AMEN.

Todd and I just looked at eachother and laughed. I'll try to explain. Ever time we visit my parents, the kids all go into Grandpa's office and ask to "push the chimney". Grandpa has an M&M dispenser which has a chimney.....when pushed, M&M's come out. Having just been there this afternoon, that's what Eli was thankful for.

SO, thanks, Dad for letting him "push chimney"!!

Summer's half over!!

2009-07-31T12:04:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that there's only 1 more month of summer vacation and then the kids go back to school and I go back to reality!! We've had such an amazing summer so far. I thought that instead of just talking about it, I'd tell you in pictures!! Enjoy!!

At the end of June, we went camping with my cousin Sarah and her boys: Timmy and Jared. We had a blast and were joined by our husbands at the end of the week. The really fun part was that my Mom's side of the family were all on the other side of the lake in cottages. We had a blast!! We also celebrated Sophia's 4th birthday while we were there.

Sophia's Birthday Party in the camper...it was SOOOOO HOT we had to move the celebration inside!

Timmy Geelhoed

Madelyn learned to knee-board!! I did too thanks to Sarah!!

This.....well, this is trouble!! This is my cousin Paul, Steve (Sarah's hubby), and Todd

Greg and Lisa visited for a day...here's Sophia holding Grace.

Every summer when my sister Michelle and her family come to Michigan, my Dad "Grandpa" takes all of the Grandkids out for a day of fun. This year there were 2 days. . . One to John Ball Zoo and the other to Crazy Bounce. The kids had a riot!!

I see these 2 (Sophia and Garrett) holding hands. . I was glad this time I caught it on film!!

We were also able to celebrate with Greg and Lisa when they baptised Grace. We gathered at Mom and Dad's for a lunch after the baptism.

A lot of time was spent at the pool this summer too. The kids LOVE to swim and are getting really confident with their pool skills! Sophia is swimming by herself underwater. !!

All 15 Grandkids: From oldest to youngest/left to right:

Clayton, Ben, Chloe, Madelyn, Hannah, Jacob, Lydia, Sarah, Amaya, Garrett, Sophia, Sam, Ellie, Eli, Grace. Whew!

Just this past weekend we took off for a little road trip. We went to a deer park in Coloma and then made our way to Indiana where we stopped at Bass Pro Shops.

I hope you are all having as full a summer as we are!!!

Happy Birthday, Charity!!!

2009-06-02T12:19:00.001-07:00

Today, June 2, is my sister-in-law Charity's birthday. Where do I begin? My brother Jeff started dating Charity when I was 10, so to me she's always been a sister. (None of that "sister-in-law" stuff!) I have always looked up to her, but more than that, I have always respected her. She loves God with all of her heart and it shows! It shows in the kind of wife and the kind of mother that she is! When I see her being a Mom, I want to be a better Mom. When I see her being a wife, I want to be a better wife! Thank you, Charity for being a sister, a friend, and a role model to me! I have learned so much from your positive attitude and Christ-centered living!

I also appreciate Charity's sense of humor!! She never takes things too seriously, and tries to find the humor all situations! No matter how frustrated I might be, she can put things in perspective for me!

Thanks, Charity! I love you, sister! Have a great birthday. I pray that God gives you all the desires of your heart, you deserve it!

Workout Wednesday.....sigh

2009-05-28T15:17:00.000-07:00

I really thought about skipping this weeks post, but in all fairness to those of you who are following along and actually interacting in workout Wednesday, I am posting. You're welcome.

Where do I begin? It was a crazy, holiday weekend so I was already tired and may have skipped 1 or 2 days of working out. Also, I love to eat. Yup, I do. I can be having the best day and then, 3:00 rolls around. What is it about 3:00? My body says: "Chocolate!" "Salty Snacks!" It's downhill from there until bedtime! I've also been VERY discouraged lately because I am not noticing ANY DIFFERENCES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GGGGGGGGGGGGRRRRRRRR. I haven't weiged myself which is one of my goals for the week, but it doesn't matter. My body isn't changing. With that being said, I lack the motivation to continue on as diligently as I started.

I guess my goals for the week are:

- Go to the gym 5-6 times this week
- go to bed by 10:30 so I'm not so stinking tired at 5:30 when the alarm goes off.
- Give it to God!! Whether I'm doing this for outward appearance or a healthier me, I can't do it without Him.

So that's all for me today. I hope you all are doing better that I am!
-

Sweet Sophia

2009-05-24T11:59:00.001-07:00

Normally I like to post a little something about each of my kids, but Sophia has really been in the forefront of my mind lately!! For those of you who don't know Sophia, she is the child who makes me cry the hardest and laugh the loudest. :) She's going to be my perfectionist. She likes things just so! She's also incredibly bright. She loves puzzles and can do a 50 piece puzzle with the small pieces by herself. Not bad for a 3 year old! She also knows her alphabet, can write her name, and has a memory like.....well, like my sister-in-law, Charity! She hears something and it's ingrained in her brain!

Like last week when she was asking me about heaven:

Sophia: How do we get to heaven....do we drive there?
Me: No, Jesus takes us to heaven!
Sophia: Does Jesus take our soul when we go to heaven?
Me: (shock) Um......well, go play!! (I did explain a little about heaven and her soul!!)

Besides being very smart, she's also the dickens! She's very mischievous, but in a way that USUALLY makes me laugh...mostly on the inside, but sometimes I let a little giggle slip when disciplining! Like this:

Sophia: Mom, can I have a snack?
ME: No, Sophia, we just finished lunch 15 minutes ago.
Sophia: Ok......(15 minutes later), Mom, can I have a snack?
ME: (I notice that she has a sucker stick in her hair) Sophia, did you already have a snack?
Sophia: No (A little sparkle in her eye).
ME: You didn't have a sucker?
Sophia: No
ME: Then what's stuck in your hair?
Sophia: (Noticing the stick and pulling it out of her now super sticky hair)...I think I DID have a sucker!

Priceless. And just today:

Sophia: Mom, Madelyn's eating chips!!
Me: Madelyn, are you eating chips? We're going to have lunch in a few minutes.
Madelyn: No, I promise, I'm not!
ME: Madelyn, did you have chips?
Madelyn: Mom, I didn't!!!
Sophia: (In a whisper)...Mom, smell her breathe!!

OH, Sophia, you are going to make a great Mom someday!!

So that's a little glimpse of what it's like to be Sophia's Mom! I'm so lucky!

Workout Wednesday

2009-05-20T08:36:00.000-07:00

Here we are again. It's been such a busy week for me, I'm not even sure where to start. I guess I'll start with how I did on my goals from last week:

- I have been more active with the kids, although we haven't really done any activities. Just basic playing outside! But it's better than watching videos and being stuck inside! I will admit there was one day that I got a great workout by cleaning my house from top to bottom, BUT the kids did watch a little TV so I could get something done! Also, I've been hired to paint someone's upstairs, so I've been busy the last 2 days doing that. (I'd like to start a side business if anyone wants any painting done!) Something VERY minimal right now, but that would grow once the kids are in school

- I skipped a workout this week! I just couldn't get myself out of bed! So instead of my 6 workouts in a week it was 5 last week. Still a good week, but not what I had set for myself.

- I have not had one sugary snack!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am however a little crabby. Chocolate does make me very happy!! A little lazy, but happy! I didn't even sneak a handful of M&M's while cleaning my Dad's office. He keeps some in his office for the Grandkids, but I do indulge myself once in awhile, but not this week!! That's a huge step for me!

My workouts, other than having skipped one, are going ok. There's one excersize that I HATE doing and usually only do 1/2 of what I'm supposed to. Any of you who want to try it, here's what it is: You need an excersize ball: Lay on your back on the floor with your arms out to the side and palms up. Put your feet on the ball using your core to ballance. Now lift your pelvis off the ground. Not too hard, right? Now, pull your feet in toward your bottom lifting your pelvis up. Now SLOWLY put your feet back out straight. Repeat, 12 times for 1 set. Do 3 sets total. YIKES!

Other than being a slave to the scale, I had a pretty good week. I haven't really lost much yet and my clothes don't seem to fit any differently, but hey, I'm doing this for good health and not my outward appearance, right? Yeah right. So that's been a little discouraging, but I'll keep plugging away!

My goals for this week are:

- Continue to be active with the kids.
- Don't look at the scale.....at all!!!!!
- I'd like to get rid of my no sugar goal from last week, but only because there's a container of chocolate frosting in the fridge, begging to be eaten! So for my own accountability, I'll keep that as one of my goals. NO SUGARY SNACKS!!!

I'll try to post something a little more interesting later in the week, so stay tuned!

Workout......Fridays?

2009-05-15T08:26:00.000-07:00

Here we go......my sister Lisa started "workout Wednesdays" on her blog a few weeks ago. Although I did start exercising, I haven't done the blog part. Here's what you have to do. Blog about 3 of your goals for the coming week and 3 of your failures in the previous week when it come to diet and excersize. YIKES!!! Only 3?? You can comment on my goals or failures if you want to. You know," Great job, keep it up" or " Seriously, what were you thinking? You can do this, now get your butt in gear!!" Anything that will help me stay on track!

Since Lisa started Workout Wednesdays, I joined a gym. I know, I know! Yes, I, Alison Elders joined a gym!!!! I've been working out 6 times a week. I get up at 5:30 and I'm at the gym at 6:00 for a 1 hour workout. I've met with a trainer twice and have a pretty good routine nailed down. I'll meet with her once a month to make the workouts progressivly harder.....EEEEKK!!

With that being said, here are my failures this past week:

1. I skipped the gym 2 days in a row this week!! When I worked out this morning even the other gym members noticed! "Nice to have you back in the gym....didn't know if we'd see you again!" There's accountability right there!!

2. Although I've been pretty committed to my workouts, I seem to make up for that by eating!! I am frustrated that I haven't lost much weight, but just the other day I sat down in front of the TV with a spoon and a container of sprinkles!!! That's all that I had in the house that was sweet. I ate the whole thing!!! Not my proudest moment.

3. I have this strange logic: I worked out this morning, so that means I shouldn't have to move for the rest of the day!!! I "lounged" a little too much this week!!

Now for my goals:

1. Make it to the gym 6 times and push myself as hard as I can for that one hour!! Don't slack on that last rep, push thru the pain!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2. Set an activity each day for myself so that I'm not just sitting! I need to do this for myself and my kids! They need to be active too!

3. No sweets this week!! I have a tendancy to cut out sugar for a day and then binge eat until the thought of something sweet makes me sick to my stomach!! I'm going to try for this week not to eat candy, ice cream, etc. You know, the things that have become my constant companion for the past few years! I'm going to try and put down the sprinkles and pick up something that will actually do my body some good!

So, there you have it. Those are my goals for the week. I'm hoping that posting them for all the world to see will make me work hard to realize them!! Thanks for the accountability!!!

Happy Mother's Day!!!

2009-05-10T12:09:00.000-07:00

Today is the 9Th time that I was able to celebrate Mother's Day as a Mom. The busyness of the day/weekend is now behind us and I'm left here in the quiet of the afternoon to reflect. Being a Mom is the hardest thing that I've ever done! It's a thankless job. We don't get a paycheck or a Christmas bonus. There's no paid time off and we don't quite at 5:00. But at the end of the day I can say that I had the privilege of raising God's children. God has blessed me with 3 beautiful kids that I get to teach about the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ! To me that is the most important job in the world!

Now I have to say thank you to my Mom, who taught me what it means to be a loving, god-fearing woman and mother. She taught me through her words about loving Jesus, but I think I learned more from her actions!! Thank you Mom!! I love and admire you so much!!

Happy Mother's Day to all of you Mother's out there! Know that you are giving your kids an inheritance that will last forever!!

Catch up!!!

2009-05-10T11:53:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!!!!! Well, after recieving some....ok a LOT of grief over my lack of recent posts, I've decided to make a new post!! WOOOOHOOOOO! A lot has happened since the last one (Todd's birthday)! I'll quickly review the highlights of the past few months at the Elders' home.

We have a new member of our family! My sister Lisa and her hubby Greg, had a baby girl: Grace Eliana. She was born in March and we love her sooo much! It's a lot of fun to have a baby around again! It's also fun to see our kids, especially Eli interact with her. He LOVES to hold her and talk to her!

It was Madelyn's 8th B-day in April. Ususally we have a party with our immediate family and Grandparents from both sides, but in addition to that this year we decided to invite all of her school friends, along with a few other girls to our house for a big party!

There were 16 girls in all (including Sophia). Needless to say, it was a crazy day, but so much fun! I can't believe she's 8!!!

We played games, went on a scavenger hunt, painted t-shirts, decorated cupcakes and had a water balloon toss. What a great day! She couldn't have asked for it to go any better and the weather cooperated too!!

Also in April was Easter. Every year we go to my parents house for Easter dinner and this year was no different. We had a great day celebrating with family!

WAY back in March it was my baby's birthday! My little man is already 2! I can't believe it. It feels like just yesterday that we brought him home. A lot has happened in our family since he was born! A new and remodeled home and a new career for Todd and our family.

God has truly blessed and continues to bless our family! Praise Him for all that he provides for us!!!

Happy Birthday, Todd!

2009-01-12T18:34:00.001-08:00

This past Friday was my dear husband Todd's birthday. I don't know exactly what to say about him......he's the guy that everyone loves to pick on, but he welcomes it! He can make conversation with anyone and by the end he knows atleast 20 of the same people as they do. (He reminds me of my Grandpa Vander Laan in that way!) He works so hard everyday, but when he gets home he is still willing to do whatever I ask of him.....besides dishes! He's just an all around good Christian man, a great father, and an amazing husband!! I never used to understand when people say that they love their mate more now than the day they were married.....you must not have been that much in love on your wedding day!! But I totally understand that now. I find more ways to love him (or more ways to overlook his annoying habits) everyday!! I love you, Todd! Thank you for all that you do for me and the kids! Happy Birthday!

Feyen Family Fun!

2009-01-12T18:20:00.001-08:00

Once again, I was able to host some of the Feyen family for a little get together. Aunt MaryJo and Uncle Eudell who live in California were in Zeeland visiting Eudell's Mom. Also here was their son Steve and his wife Julie who live in Iowa, and who have twins: Cody and Joslyn. AND their daughter Juanita and her husband Jon were here. They live in Missouri and have 5 kids: Alana, Abby, Ethan, Bridger, Jeremiah, and Anna.

Anyway, we don't get to see eachother often, so when they come to Michigan, it's nice to get together. We had quite a houseful with 10 adults and 18 kids under 9! (I think 9 is the oldest!) Anyway it was a little busy, but we had a great time talking and laughing! With all that racket the twins were even able to get a little nap in!!

Aunt Linda (holding Anna), Aunt MaryJo (holding Cody), Grandma, and Aunt Judy

All the girls went from room to room collecting babies and playing "Mom".

Lisa and Juanita

I can't believe they're all still at the same time! Although there is food in front of them!

Elders Christmas

2009-01-12T10:46:00.000-08:00

Our last Christmas party was on Friday the 26th with the Elders family. We ate, the kids played, we opened gifts, and watched a video that Sara and I put together. It was a collection of all of our family pictures thru the year and we put it to music. Sara has made this a tradition and this year she asked for my help. It was a lot of fun and something that we can enjoy watching forever! HEre are a few pics highlighting our celebration:

We bought Dad E. a shirt that says: Retired with an attitude: seen it all, done it all, just don't remember it all!!

Me and my neice Cassey

I gave Mom E a puzzle with all of her grandkids in it.

Sophia and her twins!

Madelyn and Elizabeth and their matching watches.

Tawnya and I suprised our husbands by making a sign for our new business, Standing Stone Farms

Me and my man!

Me and Steve, Todd's brother

Christmas Day with the kids

2009-01-12T10:26:00.001-08:00

We began Christmas Day by going to church and then to my parents house for lunch with the Vander Laan side. It was a small and relaxed party, and a great day. We went home late afternoon and began our own celebration. After a nice dinner that lasted about 30 seconds before the kids said they were done and ready to open presents :), we went into the living room and started! I think the kids had a great time and so did Todd and I!

The kid infront of our "fancy" Christmas tree!

Eli was more interested in making towers out of the presents than opening them!

OOOHHH, new slippers! Very much needed and appreciated..

Princess Sophia

Todd looking thru his new "Hunting Adventures" Photo album

Princess Eli?

Madelyn in her new pajamas....doing....I'm not sure what?!

The Elders Family...Christmas 2008

Vander Laan Christmas

2009-01-12T10:10:00.000-08:00

I have recently recieved a friendly reminder that I'm slacking on my posts! Aparently I haven't posted since December 12......ahhhh, what would we do without sisters? Thanks again, LISA!!

Anyway, I have a lot to catch you up on. We had a very blessed Christmas this year. I've always known the real reason that we celebrate, but I think I learn that lesson more and more every year. I get so much enjoyment out of my kids singing Christmas songs, reading with them about the birth of Jesus and watching them open their presents! God has provided everything that we've needed this past year and so much more than we've needed too!

To start off our Christmas celebration was the Feyen family Christmas party at my parents house. There were maybe 40 people there, I think. My mom comes from a family of 8 kids, so when we all get together it's a little busy! Because of all that business, I forgot to get my camera out and take pictures....oops!

Our next party was with my parents and brothers and sisters. Unfortunately because Michelle and Chris live so far away, we weren't able to celebrate with them, but thought of them often throughout the night!! We start with appetizers....everyone makes one and then we get to the presents! Here are a few pics from that night:

The Vander Laan grandkids! Lydia, Madelyn, Sophia, Ellie, Jacob, Garrett, Clayton, Eli, Chloe and Amaya. (Not pictured are: Ben, Hannah, Sarah, Sam, and baby Fredricks due in March)

Sophia and Gar-bear!

Candy Friday

2008-12-14T11:54:00.000-08:00

I make Christmas candy every year. This year I decided to invite some helpers! I invited all of my Aunts and cousins on the Feyen side. I was amazed when most of them could come! In the morning we had 9 kids (5 and under!), and 7 adults. After lunch a lot of the Moms with kids went home, but we still had 3 kids and 6 Moms. It was such a fun day! We had good conversation and YUMMY candy to snack on ....all day!

Before the candy making started, the kids needed to let out some steam. Here they are playing duck-duck-goose with Aunt Charity...

Having a snack break...

My Grandma and Aunt Judy, dipping away! I put them right to work!!

Sophia, my baker, loves to do whatever Mommy is doing! Here's my little helper dipping candy.

Tim and Sophia played so nicely together in the afternoon!

This is my Mom and her youngest sister, Judy! Good looks runs in the family!! (They need to thank me for not putting in the other pictures that I was threatening to publish!) You're welcome, ladies!

It was a great day! Hopefully we'll make this an annual event.

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree!

2008-12-06T10:06:00.000-08:00

2 days after Thanksgiving (this post is a little late!), we went to KC Trees with most of my family (We missed you Hayden family!) to cut down a Christmas tree. It's such a fun day. Normally there's atleast a foot of snow to stomp thru to try and choose a tree, but this year it was a beautiful, sunny day! A littl dissapointing for pictures, but great for trying to get 3 kids walking in 1 direction! We all started off by getting on the wagon and being driven to the part of the farm that we chose to get a tree from.

When we got off the wagon, the men grabbed saws and we all started our search for the perfect Christmas tree. We've learned from the past to carry tape measures with us! Sometimes our eyes are bigger than our ceilings.....TODD!!

After searching for 10 minutes or so, our family found our tree. It wasn't as big as some of our trees in the past, but it's still between 8-9 feet!

Out came the saw and this year Todd passed down the honor of tree cutting to Madelyn.....for a minute or two anyway!!

It's such a fun thing to do and I'm so glad that I get to share it with 2 of my sisters!

Every so often there would be a giant candy cane...that's where you had to drag your freshly cut tree so that when the wagon came back, they could pick them up all in 1 spot. Luckily no one tried licking the sweet treat!

Once we were done cutting the tree, they took us to the building where we got hot cider and donuts while they shook out our tree to get the dead needles off, drilled a hole in the trunk for our stand and wrapped it in twine for the ride home. This place is full service! This year they also offered a horse-drawn wagon ride thru the woods. The kids, moms, Grandpa and Grandma went for a ride while the Dad's "supervised" the trees.

When we got home, we got right to decorating! Madelyn handed the ornaments to the little kids while Sophia and Eli threw them at the tree to see if they would stick! They didn't We did suffer 3 ornament catasrophies, but all in all they did great! And we had a lot of fun....

Now we just have to make sure that the ornaments STAY on the tree!!

Greg's Birthday

2008-12-05T14:41:00.000-08:00

Today is my brother-in-law Greg's birthday. His and his twin brother Scott's! Greg is married to my sister, Lisa and they are expecting baby #4!! I met Greg when I was 14 and very impressionabl. He's taught me sooo many things over the years including how to do Algebra when I was in High School! But more importantly, he introduced me to the very useful saying, "no copa, no stopa!" Thanks, Greg! But seriously, he takes great care of my sister, loves his kids so much and has always been an amazing big brother! I love you, bro! Have a great birthday!

Here's a picture of Greg and I sharing a dance at my wedding..

Puzzlemania

2008-11-25T16:22:00.000-08:00

I like puzzles....ok, I LOVE puzzles! It gives me something mindless to do on a Sunday afternoon. It somehow feels more productive to put together 500-1000 pieces of a picture just to put them in a box a few hours later than to sit around watching my husband sleep or watch tv. I usually start doing puzzles when the weather gets colder and continue through the winter months.

Anyway- last Christmas I got a puzzle from my parents that I think they gave me as a joke thinking I'd NEVER be able to put it all together. I must say that I tried a few different times only to have it wiped off the table by a passing child.....GRRR!!! Well, today I did it. I FINALLY finished the puzzle!! Take a look....

That's right, M&M's! It's a circle of M&M's!! When I think about it, puzzles are a complete waste of time, but for some reason when I completed this puzzle, I felt really good about it! So, I thought I'd share it will all of you! :)

Visitors

2008-11-13T16:19:00.000-08:00

This week has been SOOO busy, but busy with many fun things! This afternoon, my friend from Middle School/High School who now goes to the same Bible Study on Tuesday mornings came over with her 3 year old daughter, Peyton. It's really been great seeing Jessica again now that we're both "grown ups" with kids of our own! It was also Jessica's birthday, so we decided to have the girls decorate cupcakes. They had a blast! It was a little difficult to make them stop for a picture, but I did manage to get a few!! After cupcake decorating, we sampled their creations (delicious) and then the girls went upstairs and played for almost 2 hours without any disagreements! They had a great time and so did the Moms!!

Earlier in the week another good friend, Ruthanne came over with her daughter, Addisyn. We had a chance to catch up with eachother and swap "mom-stories". Then we had some yummy lunch (thank you Meijer's deli salads!!). We also had a little photo shoot with Addy who was giving us some adorable smiles! Addisyn is such a sweet girl! I hope this is one of many visits that we'll have with Addisyn and her mom!

Michelle's Birthday!

2008-11-10T14:46:00.001-08:00

Another day, another birthday! It's my sister Michelle's turn for the spotlight! Michelle is my big sister who I've always looked up to! We are 7 years apart, but she always made time for me and included me in what she was doing. She took the time to teach me things and even helped me out when I got my hand caught in the beaters....(my hand was fine but the beaters....didn't look too good)! She is an amazing cook, who I call on a regular basis to get dinner suggestions, recipes, and cooking tips! (The difference between mayo and miracle whip just confuses me)! Now that we're all grown up with families of our own, Michelle is still teaching me things, and is someone that I'll always respect and admire. She's an amazing wife, mother, sister, and friend. So, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Michelle! I miss you and love you lots!

I was flipping through some old pictures and found this one of me and Michelle. Thanks for being a great big sister!!

Happy Birthday, Chris!

2008-11-09T17:49:00.000-08:00

Today is my brother-in-law Chris' birthday. I guess I'm going to be making this blog birthday message a tradition!! Let me just tell you a little about Chris. He is married to my sister, Michelle. They live in South Carolina where Chris is a High School teacher and Michelle is a stay at home Mom to 4 kids! For those of you who don't know Chris personally, I'll give you a few facts. You know those people who know a little about A LOT of things? Well, that's not Chris. Chris knows A LOT about A LOT of things! Seriously, whenever I have a question about history, government, technology, music, ANYTHING, I know who knows the answer! He was kind enough to hook up our computers and wireless internet while visiting this summer. Thanks, Chris! It's because of you that I'm able to blog so often and easily! :) So, Happy Birthday, Chris! I hope you have a great day! Unfortunately I can't give you a BD hug in person, so this will have to do. Happy Birthday.

Here's Chris helping my Dad bury the tile for our downspouts. It was rainy and wet that day:)

This is Chris with his son, Sam swimming in the pool at Mom and Dad's this summer.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JEFF!!

2008-11-06T13:46:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was my brother Jeff's birthday. Sorry Jeff, I'm a day late!! Jeff has always had a special place in my heart. As my big brother he teased me, sat on me, "accidentally" dropped spiders in my mouth while I was pinned down, you know..normal big brother stuff. But he wasn't just a big tease, he was a great teacher. I've learned so much from him. He's a hard-worker, an amazing parent, and a sincere and true Christian. I hope you had a great birthday, Jeff! And pray you have many more..

Here's Jeff and his whole family: His wife: Charity (I tell people that she's my sister-in-law, but to me she's a sister)! And his 4 kids: Clayton, Chloe, Lydia, and Garrett

A hunter's widow!

2008-10-24T07:01:00.001-07:00

Last night Todd went hunting for the first time all year! I know, it's been a crazy fall and he hasn't had a chance to get out into the woods yet. So he went to a piece of property that he recently got permission to hunt. He usually stays out until about dark thirty and then I get a call that he's down from his tree stand and on his way home. I think he calls partly to let me know he didn't fall out of the tree or accidentically shoot himself, and partly so that I know to start making his dinner!! :) Either way, I got the phone call at dark thirty that said he was out of his tree stand and on his way home......with an 8 point buck! On his first night of hunting, on a new peice of property! Needless to say, he was a little excited! Anyone who knows Todd knows that he's very easy going and doesn't get overly enthusiastic often...but this was the exception! His voice was a little shaky and he was thrilled!

He walked in the door this morning after getting rained out at work and wanted me to get the kids dressed so we could go outside and take some pictures with his buck (now hanging in the barn.....eeeww!) We got some great pictures! Take a look....

Todd and his first buck of the season! Way to go, DEER!! (hehehe)

Todd and the kids...

Eli just grabbed onto the antlers and wouldn't let go!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LISA!!!

2008-10-17T10:21:00.000-07:00

It's my sister Lisa's birthday today. She turns......don't worry Lisa, I won't be sharing that! I just wanted to send her a Happy Birthday message because she means so much to me.

Lisa, I don't share this with you often enough, but you are such an important person to me! Not only are you an amazing Mom to 3, well 4 kids, but you're a great big sister! You are my friend, my supporter and so much more. You take my kids when I need a break, you listen when I need to talk and you drink coffee with me when I need the caffeine! What can I say, you're awesome! Thanks for being there always! I love you and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Here's Lisa with her family: her hubby Greg, her son Jacob and daughters Mya and Ellie.

Lisa and Ellie

If you get a chance, click on Lisa's link on my blog and wish her a happy birthday!

Here's the proof...you be the judge!

2008-10-08T07:09:00.000-07:00

Well I recieved some negative feedback regarding my last post. The comment that was made was that our son does NOT have a shoe fettish. He's a man, not a wimp!! Well, this morning I have some pictures that may prove my shoe-loving theory.I turned and looked down the hallway and saw our son...our MAN, wearing my 2 inch wedge sandals. And from the picture you can see the sheer joy on his face. :)

You might say this was only a 1 time occurance....I may have thought that as well....until I turned around only minutes later......
And found the same joy on his face, but different shoes on his feet. What can I say? He loves shoes!

So I guess you can be the judge!! :)

A look back at September

2008-10-01T11:17:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that September is already over! This summer flew by! We're pretty settled into the house now, although there are many projects still unfinished. I guess that's always the case with an old house! I haven't updated recently so thought I'd finally sit down and get everyone caught up with what's going on in our family.

Madelyn has already completed her first month of second grade! She has Maestra Varela (and Maestra Huizenga has been helping in her class too). She loves them both! I can't believe how she's maturing this year already. She's reading very well in Spanish and in English. I was helping her with some math homework last night (her favorite subject.....she definitely didn't get that from me!), and she was muttering through the numbers under her breath...in Spanish! It's such an incredible learning experience. If anyone is interested in Spanish Immersion for their kids, PLEASE talk to me, it's awesome! Here's a few pictures of her on her first day of school.

Now that Madelyn is back in school everyday, Sophia and I are spending a lot of time together, especially when Eli naps. I feel like I give my kids pretty equal attention, but there's something about being one on one with each of them that's so special. Her true personality really comes out. She's truly a joy to be around. (Most of the time!!) One of her favorite things to do is to help me in the kitchen. She loves to cook and bake with me. We often make cookies together, although after a few licks of the beaters, she doesn't want anymore cookie dough. (She did not get that from me!)

Well, what can I say about Eli? He's ALL boy! Other than his shoe fetish! (Sorry, Todd but it's true! The kid loves shoes! And maybe he did inherit that trait from me..) He also loves to be outside. It seems like everytime I turn around he's scrubbing the toilet (and the bathroom walls) with the toilet brush, is running around in circles for no reason, or is playing in the dryer. What can I say, he's a character. I'm seeing the difference between having boys and girls. He's so much more laid back!

All in all, we had a great September. We are finally back into a routine after the lazy days of summer. Maddie is riding the bus which comes right to our road. I can see her get on and off from the front porch, although I usually drive or walk with her to drop her off and pick her up.

There's not too much going on with me. I'm enjoying being at home with the kids. I just started Bible Study again a few weeks ago and have a group of great, insightful women! But that's about it. And Todd....well Todd has started us on a new adventure! He quit his job of about 15 years a few weeks ago and we are now buying greenhouses! I know slightly different than the construction world, but we prayed a long time for an opportunity to come up and we really feel like this is the door that God opened for us! We're praying that He sees us through this change and I know He will!

That's all for right now....maybe I'll update again in November!! :) KIDDING!

Date Night

2008-08-17T15:10:00.001-07:00

Last night (Saturday) went out on a date with several couples from church. We had a handful of brave souls who offered to watch ALL of our kids at the church, including feed them all dinner while we went out. Thanks guys!

We went to The Grill House in Allegan which is so fun to do with a group of people. You can order off the menu or go and pick out a slab of meat from the cooler and grill it yourself. To some it sounds like more work, but it was great!

I think that everyone had a blast and we talked about doing another get together. Unfortunately I forgot my camera, so I don't have any pics to share. So unlike me! Sorry...I'll do better next time.

Baby Shower

2008-08-13T20:09:00.000-07:00

I was thrilled to be able to attend my dear friends Ruthanne's baby shower. I'm so excited for her new arrival in just a few weeks!! Ruthanne's friend Michelle threw her a great shower in her beautiful back yard. We played a few games, ate some great food and then showered the Mom-to-be with gifts! I'm so happy for Ruthanne and know that she's going to be a fantastic Mom! I can't wait to meet baby Huizenga!!

Just Relax!

2008-08-13T19:50:00.000-07:00

It's been a crazy few days.....weeks....months...well it's been a crazy year! We're finally getting a chance to sit back and just enjoy the kids at home! Todd has been working around the house at night with the tractor. Eli just walks around watching him and pointing to "DADA". Usually Todd can't take him along, but every once in awhile Eli gets his wish to ride along with his Daddy.

I'm still so in awe at all that we have been blessed with. Thank you, God!!

Sophia wanted to take someone for a ride. Eli was willing, so he hopped in the wagon and Sophia pulled him all over the driveway!

Eli loved it!

I think Eli is finally making friends with Rosco!!

BBQ by the pond

2008-08-13T19:35:00.000-07:00

This past week has been filled with several Feyen-family get togethers because a few families were here from out of state. The Feyen family has 94 members, so when we get the chance to get together we take it! Uncle Fred and Aunt Linda invited everyone over for a chicken BBQ. It was so much fun! They have a pond in the back of their property that they've turned into a great retreat and place to entertain! We had great food and fun. The kids went fishing, took paddle boat rides, and chased the cows!! After we were all done we took a hay ride back to the house where most of the cars were parked. It was another great night and it was so much fun seeing everyone!

Greg, Jacob and Ellie taking a ride

Madelyn and Sophia....Sisters....Best Friends

Todd and Sophia fishing off the dock

Eli was just happy splashing in the kiddy pool!

Sophia loved bubbles...so does Eli. Sophia would blow the bubbles and Eli would chase them and giggle. It was very cute!!Thanks Uncle Fred and Aunt Linda for a great night!

Michigan's Adventure

2008-08-13T19:21:00.000-07:00

Well last week we went to Michigan's Adventure with some of the Feyen family (my Mom's side). We had a blast! I dropped off Sophia and Eli at my Mother-in-law's (thanks Mom!) and went with Madelyn. I was suprised and a little nervous to find out that she was tall enough to go on all but 1 ride!! I tell you, going on a roller coaster for the first time with your child as you go upside down is a little scary, but man was it fun! I love roller coasters, and once she went on a few, so did Madelyn! Even my 82 year old Grandma went on several of the wilder rides....way to go, Grandma!

Me, Madelyn, and Chloe enjoying our first ride!

Chloe and Madelyn on the frog-hopper.

Me, Madelyn, and Chloe enjoying the layed back ferris wheel.

We all packed food, so at dinner time we met some of the family out in the parking lot and had a picnic dinner before heading back into the park. What a fun day!

CRAZY BOUNCE

2008-07-31T10:57:00.000-07:00

Well, last week my Dad (along with my sister Lisa's help) took the older Grandkids to John Ball Park Zoo. (See Lisa's blog for pics!!) This week he decided to take all 14, actually all 15 (Lisa's pregnant) to CRAZY BOUNCE. The Mom's decided that sounded like too much fun so we all went too! It was soo much fun. I took Eli and Sophia down a few of the big slides and they loved it! They both giggled and laughed. It was great. Sophia did get "stuck" on one of the obstacle courses, so I ran, well I guess I bounced in after her. I even had a chance to go thru the "SQUEEZE" part of the course. Not my favorite part. By the end of the time there, Sophia was going down one of the big slides herself....backwards, of course. We all had a great time. I can't believe how much fun it is to be a parent and watch your kids have fun. That was definately the best part.

Sophia in the ball pit

Dad "Grandpa" and Jacob being stretched to the limit!

Madelyn enjoying one of many slides

Me and Sophia going thru one of the obstacle courses

Eli just watching the action

Some of the Grandkids in the Toddler pit

Clayton's getting ready for the big fight

Dad and Sam

After Crazy Bounce, we all went back to Mom and Dad's where Mom had a delicious meal waiting. We spent the rest of the afternoon in the pool. What a great day!

WE'RE IN!!!!!!!

2008-07-28T10:25:00.000-07:00

Well after 9 months of being without a home of our own, we've finally moved into the house of our dreams! Most of the boxes are unpacked and we really feel settled in. We're so settled that we've decided to add a new member to our family. NO, I'm not pregnant but I do have a new baby! His name is Rosco and he's adorable. The younger 2 kids are deathly afraid but I think they're starting to get used to him.

God has been so good to us! This sunset is just another reminder that he is the awesome Creator!

Now that we have a kitchen of our own, Sophia has shown a real culinary interest!

We're having so much fun at the house and I can't wait to create so many more memories here. Thanks to all of you who have helped out at the house, with my kids, or have prayed for us thru this whole project!!

New Pictures

2008-06-06T14:41:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures of Todd and Alison's house. They are getting so close to moving in. I think they are getting worn out a little, but are just pushing through to the end. When a couple months turns into almost a year it really puts a strain on your family time! Hopefully only a couple more weeks!

Madelyn and Sophia are posing on the new wrap around deck.

This the living room. It has kept its basic shape and size. A wood stove will be added into on corner.

These are the lockers that are in the back entry way. I do would not even recognize this area if I did not see the remodel with my own eyes. I am VERY jealous of these!

Master bathroom

This is the upstairs. They managed to save some of the original wood floors! We are looking at a play room area(I am not sure what they are calling it. You can also see into Eli's room in this picture!

I am sure that even if some of you are unable to work at the house that Saturday they would still love to have you stop by and take a tour!

Lisa

Hijacked

2008-06-03T06:12:00.000-07:00

The Elders blog has been hijacked by Alisons crazy sister Lisa!

Alison and Todd have to be out out of the house where they are staying in less than a month. They have so many loose ends to tie up. I do not think the house will be ready for them in time. I am not sure about all of you, but I know whenever I need help they are there for me. So, I am here to petition for help, on thier behalf. I would love to have a major work party there on Saturday June 21. There is work there for all skill levels! From fine trim work to cleaning (which is where I will be stuck).

Please let me know if you can help out that day, or any other day. Todd is there pretty much all the time. And if you are not up for that sort of thing I am sure Alison would be willing to share her precious children so that she would be free to work as well!

Lunch will be provided!

You can e-mail me to let me know lisafredi@yahoo.com

Thanks!

Lisa

Mother's Day Reflection

2008-05-13T06:46:00.001-07:00

I hope that all of you Mothers out there had an amazing Mother's Day. Being a Mom is one of the most rewarding and yet un-rewarded jobs there are!

I had a great day. My husband made lunch (and even went with all the kids on Saturday to get the groceries). AND he cleaned up the dishes, AND I was able to rest my weary body for awhile! It was fantastic. Best of all, I spent the day with the people who made me a Mom!

On Sunday night, I found some old videos that belonged to my Grandpa and Grandma Vander Laan. As I watched them, I realized that it's because of the faith, love and dedication of my Parents, Grandparents, etc. that I am able to provide a loving Christian home for my kids! Not only did that make me appreciate them more, but it made me want to be a better Mom. They are, after all going to grow up to be what they have seen in me. (Not that it's always good!) It's kind of a scary thought, but gave me a passion to live a better life. Not for me, but for Madelyn, Sophia, and Elliot. I LOVE YOU GUYS!!

Birthday, tee-ball, haircut, and a potty party!

2008-04-28T05:34:00.000-07:00

Well, I was racking my brain trying to figure out what this post was going to be about, and I realized that even though my life is not always very exciting, we are an extremely busy family!

It all started last week Sunday (4-20) when we celebrated Madelyn's birthday. You have to realize that she's been talking about this day for about 364 days now! We celebrated at my parents house and invited Todd's parents to join us for a very special Sunday lunch. Madelyn requested appetizers (shrimp and deviled eggs) to be served before the meal. For the main course she wanted shish kabobs over rice, fried potato slices and green beans. For desert: a Barbie birthday cake! We had a great time. She was showered with gifts including a Hannah Montana purse, new flip flops, a tee-ball tee, and......an American Girl Doll! She was thrilled! For the first few days of the week she wouldn't let it out of her sight except when she had to go to school. Even then, I received specific instructions about how to care for her while she was gone. She named her Olivia (which was Elliot's girl name if he was a girl). Oh, and she now calls me Grandma, because Olivia is her daughter making me a Grandmother!

We also started T-ball this week thru Zeeland Rec. We were both a little nervous for the first practice, but as we walked up to the field 2 of her friends from Kindergarten ran up to greet her! She really did great. She had 2 chances to bat and 2 hits! We were very proud of her.

Now onto Sophia. I do believe that after MANY "accidents" and dozens of loads of laundry, we are thru Potty training. She hasn't had an accident since last week! She even wakes up during the night to go. We are thrilled! That decreases the # of diapers I change daily by quite a few! Sorry, no embarassing potty pictures, just one of her trying to pose!

What's new with Eli this week? Well, I've wanted to have his haircut for some time, but he's so squirmy that I dreaded taking him in some where. So.....I cut it myself, with my Mom's help. I know what you're thinking and you're right...it was a disaster!! From the front it looks somewhat normal, but it's not a pretty sight in the back. Hopefully it grows fast so that we can have it "fixed"!! OOPS! Sorry, Eli!

We also went from a gas-guzzling SUV this week to a very practical mini van. After having 3 children, this van more than anything else, makes me feel like a mom! (Or a Grandma as Madelyn would say).

One last thing. We had a great family night and lots of fun at Zeeland Christian Fun Night on Friday. We all played tons of games, the girls had their faces painted and we came home with some fun prizes....included a goldfish that Madelyn won! Sadly we lost Goldie this morning. I'm not sure if it was all the shaking she endured while in the plastic baggie we brought her home in that caused her lack of appetite, but the poor fish wouldn't eat a bite of the food we dropped in her bowl. We only knew you for a short time, but we'll miss you Goldie!

My first post!

2008-04-17T09:15:00.000-07:00

Well, it's official. I'm a BLOGGER! I still don't know how half of this technology works, but I'm going to try my best. I guess I'll start by telling you a little about me and my family. My husband (Todd) and I have 3 beautiful children. Madelyn is 6, actually she'll be 7 on Sunday. (I know what you're thinking, and yes..I'm very old!) Sophia is 2 (3 in June), and Eli is 1. We are increasingly busy. Oh yeah, and we're living in my parents basement because we don't have a livable home of our own! We decided to buy and restore an old farm house. Well....7 months later, we're still restoring. It's going pretty well and we can start to see an end in sight, but it hasn't been easy. I guess that's what most of this blog is going to be about until that project slows down a bit and I can write about something more interesting.

HOME SWEET HOME!!

A VIEW FROM THE SIDE

This is the first day we were able to get in the house. We started demo RIGHT AWAY!

Because of some unknown structural issues, we had to remove the entire 2nd story!

We found some pages from an old Dutch Bible in the attic that we tore down. The New 2nd story! Todd's room! (The addition)