Until two weeks ago, our front porch looked like this:
No joke.
Someone let me know when all the leaves are down and then I'll pick them up, 'kay?
11.26.2011
Ohio leaves
Every leaf of every tree in Ohio has been making it's way to our front porch.
Until two weeks ago, our front porch looked like this:
Now, no matter how often I sweep them up and bag those leaves, it looks like this:
No joke.
Someone let me know when all the leaves are down and then I'll pick them up, 'kay?
Until two weeks ago, our front porch looked like this:
No joke.
Someone let me know when all the leaves are down and then I'll pick them up, 'kay?
11.25.2011
Stationery card
Vintage Ribbon Christmas Card
Personalize your Christmas card at Shutterfly.
View the entire collection of cards.
11.23.2011
My Christmas Angel: Lawrence
If you remember all my posts this summer about Preston and Reece's Rainbow, you know how much this organization & those sweet faces have grabbed my heart and won't let go. Since I haven't been the best little blogger since moving, it should be easy to scroll down and find those posts.
Every Christmas, Reece's Rainbow holds it's biggest fundraiser of the year: the Christmas Angel Tree. Christmas Warriors like myself select a child they like to raise money and awareness for. My Christmas Angel this year is Lawrence:
Just like with Preston, I always tend to gravitate towards the children that remind me so much of my own Grant. Like Grant, Lawrence is 5-years-old (almost 6). Like Grant, he has blonde hair and a little something in his eyes that tells me he has lots of love to give a family.
But unlike Grant, he won't be getting any Christmas presents this year. More importantly, unlike Grant, he won't be spending Christmas with a mommy & daddy that love him and read him stories, then sleep in a nice bed with a full tummy. Where he was born, children that aren't "perfect" and happen to be born with Down syndrome are given up at birth. Which wouldn't be a big deal if the orphanages were these great, magical places. But they're not.
In fact, Lawrence - being 5 years old - has already been transferred to an institution in his country. When children there aren't adopted by around age 5, they are sent to these horrible, under-funded, overcrowded places. I've written of them before. It's a terrible life for any human being, but especially for a tender, young child. Instead enjoying the life that every 5-year-old should enjoy, Lawrence is being shut away in a place where him and the others are largely ignored. Little or no attention or care is given, nothing at all to occupy his time, and meals are not adequate. Life expectancy is greatly reduced. I could go into more detail from accounts of people that have visited these places, but suffice to say, recounting the details of these institutions causes me sadness and sickens me to even fathom Grant being so mistreated and ignored as if he had no value.
And this, all because he has Down syndrome.
That is a terrible excuse for this kind of life that no one deserves. Even though he lives far from me and I've never met him or the other children before, I'm tied to him thanks to that extra chromosome that he and Grant have in common. I can't just turn my back and forget these kids now that my eyes have been opened to their plight. No one in their country is fighting to save them - they are forgotten there.
But families in other places, mainly the United States & Canada, are willing and desirous to take these children into their home! They want those blessings of a child with Down syndrome that I enjoy everyday, but the initial costs are intimidating. We can help those families cross that financial hurdle and bring home these children that much sooner. And for Lawrence, time is precious! Not everyone can adopt, but we all can give of our hearts with our financial help, prayers, and spreading the word about Lawrence and all the other children like him.
Please consider a donation (tax-deductible!) to this very deserving child. Donations go directly to his own personal fund & are held in reserve until a family comes along and commits to him. Often, the more money a child has in their account, the more likely they are to be adopted. And with international adoptions costing an upwards of $20,000 - every little bit helps and gets him one step closer to a loving home and family.
Any size donation - even $5 is wonderful and appreciated. If you are looking for a good cause to support this Christmas, you've found it! Just use the link on the upper right corner to donate through Paypal if you wish - it's very easy. I do not see who donates or how much (just his current total) - it's your special gift from you to Lawrence. :) If you donate $35 or more, you can receive a nice ornament with Lawrence's picture! What a good reminder to our families of some good we did in the world at this Christmas season!
Reece's Rainbow has helped place over 500+ children in five years - Lawrence can be their next success story. This can be Lawrence's LAST Christmas without a family!
Here is the link to all the Christmas Angels also waiting for homes if you desire to see some more darling faces - happily, some have already got committed families since the Angel Tree Fundraiser began!
Thank you so much for reading this and no matter what you are able to do or not, any prayers that Lawrence's family will find him soon are always appreciated as well!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Every Christmas, Reece's Rainbow holds it's biggest fundraiser of the year: the Christmas Angel Tree. Christmas Warriors like myself select a child they like to raise money and awareness for. My Christmas Angel this year is Lawrence:
Just like with Preston, I always tend to gravitate towards the children that remind me so much of my own Grant. Like Grant, Lawrence is 5-years-old (almost 6). Like Grant, he has blonde hair and a little something in his eyes that tells me he has lots of love to give a family.
But unlike Grant, he won't be getting any Christmas presents this year. More importantly, unlike Grant, he won't be spending Christmas with a mommy & daddy that love him and read him stories, then sleep in a nice bed with a full tummy. Where he was born, children that aren't "perfect" and happen to be born with Down syndrome are given up at birth. Which wouldn't be a big deal if the orphanages were these great, magical places. But they're not.
In fact, Lawrence - being 5 years old - has already been transferred to an institution in his country. When children there aren't adopted by around age 5, they are sent to these horrible, under-funded, overcrowded places. I've written of them before. It's a terrible life for any human being, but especially for a tender, young child. Instead enjoying the life that every 5-year-old should enjoy, Lawrence is being shut away in a place where him and the others are largely ignored. Little or no attention or care is given, nothing at all to occupy his time, and meals are not adequate. Life expectancy is greatly reduced. I could go into more detail from accounts of people that have visited these places, but suffice to say, recounting the details of these institutions causes me sadness and sickens me to even fathom Grant being so mistreated and ignored as if he had no value.
And this, all because he has Down syndrome.
That is a terrible excuse for this kind of life that no one deserves. Even though he lives far from me and I've never met him or the other children before, I'm tied to him thanks to that extra chromosome that he and Grant have in common. I can't just turn my back and forget these kids now that my eyes have been opened to their plight. No one in their country is fighting to save them - they are forgotten there.
But families in other places, mainly the United States & Canada, are willing and desirous to take these children into their home! They want those blessings of a child with Down syndrome that I enjoy everyday, but the initial costs are intimidating. We can help those families cross that financial hurdle and bring home these children that much sooner. And for Lawrence, time is precious! Not everyone can adopt, but we all can give of our hearts with our financial help, prayers, and spreading the word about Lawrence and all the other children like him.
Please consider a donation (tax-deductible!) to this very deserving child. Donations go directly to his own personal fund & are held in reserve until a family comes along and commits to him. Often, the more money a child has in their account, the more likely they are to be adopted. And with international adoptions costing an upwards of $20,000 - every little bit helps and gets him one step closer to a loving home and family.
Any size donation - even $5 is wonderful and appreciated. If you are looking for a good cause to support this Christmas, you've found it! Just use the link on the upper right corner to donate through Paypal if you wish - it's very easy. I do not see who donates or how much (just his current total) - it's your special gift from you to Lawrence. :) If you donate $35 or more, you can receive a nice ornament with Lawrence's picture! What a good reminder to our families of some good we did in the world at this Christmas season!
Reece's Rainbow has helped place over 500+ children in five years - Lawrence can be their next success story. This can be Lawrence's LAST Christmas without a family!
Here is the link to all the Christmas Angels also waiting for homes if you desire to see some more darling faces - happily, some have already got committed families since the Angel Tree Fundraiser began!
Thank you so much for reading this and no matter what you are able to do or not, any prayers that Lawrence's family will find him soon are always appreciated as well!
Happy Thanksgiving!
*P.S. I will be having a Pampered Chef party soon to benefit Lawrence/RR -
if you think you'd be interested in buying anything, let me know!
*P.P.S. I might even do a giveaway here on the blog!
*P.P.S. I might even do a giveaway here on the blog!
11.21.2011
a last minute trip
When it comes to cross-country travel, I plan ahead. Actually, I don't have much experience planning cross-country adventures because I rarely venture so far from home. But when I got the opportunity a few weeks ago to travel out to California and go the Scrappin' Shack with some good friends, I threw all good travel sense out the window and booked my tickets.
I've posted about Scrappin' Shack before. It's only the most blissful four days one can spend up in the mountains - working on crafts, eating, sleeping in, and chatting to our hearts content. When I went last May and thought that trip would be my last, my heart hurt. It's just so heavenly! Eight women were booked to go this fall (the max that there is adequate room for), then with moving out here and not knowing Landon's schedule, I resigned myself to the idea that I just couldn't make it this time. THEN, my friend Kelly slyly informed me that someone had to back out - and before I knew it, I was making plans to fly out to LA.
The best part of this whole plan - other than getting to fly alone for the first time in 5 years and, you know, all the awesome stuff mentioned above - was that Kelly and I conspired to surprise our friend Beth with my arrival! I love a good surprise!! She contacted everyone but Beth to inform them of my attendance and to not leak the news before our Thursday drive up to the cabin.
I arrived in LA Wednesday night. Kelly picked me up and let me stay with her. We giggled like school girls as we imagined the look on Beth's face! First thing in the morning we loaded up the car, picked up one other friend, and drove down to Beth's house. We were hoping she'd be inside her home, but sure enough she was outside loading her own vehicle so I dove down under the window so she wouldn't see me too soon. Then as she walked up to Kelly's driver side window, I couldn't stay in any longer and jumped out of the car.
I was expecting a shriek and a hug - instead she screamed and took off running. Seeing her turn around with tears in her eyes brought on the waterworks for me as well! I've missed Los Angeles and these girls so much - all I needed was a reason to cry myself! That moment right there was worth coming out to CA for!
The rest was typical Scrappin' Shack: drove the couple of hours up to Lake Arrowhead, went out to eat & shopped for the one meal we each prepare, arrive at the house, unpack, and jump up and down with excitement that we were there. I had a marvelous time - but I expected no less. I worked on my Project Life album and a little bit of Grant's school album. Then there was the Dance Party in the living room on Friday night. I'm actually glad I don't have pictures of that in an attempt to preserve my own self-esteem, but good gracious was it fun.
I've posted about Scrappin' Shack before. It's only the most blissful four days one can spend up in the mountains - working on crafts, eating, sleeping in, and chatting to our hearts content. When I went last May and thought that trip would be my last, my heart hurt. It's just so heavenly! Eight women were booked to go this fall (the max that there is adequate room for), then with moving out here and not knowing Landon's schedule, I resigned myself to the idea that I just couldn't make it this time. THEN, my friend Kelly slyly informed me that someone had to back out - and before I knew it, I was making plans to fly out to LA.
The best part of this whole plan - other than getting to fly alone for the first time in 5 years and, you know, all the awesome stuff mentioned above - was that Kelly and I conspired to surprise our friend Beth with my arrival! I love a good surprise!! She contacted everyone but Beth to inform them of my attendance and to not leak the news before our Thursday drive up to the cabin.
I arrived in LA Wednesday night. Kelly picked me up and let me stay with her. We giggled like school girls as we imagined the look on Beth's face! First thing in the morning we loaded up the car, picked up one other friend, and drove down to Beth's house. We were hoping she'd be inside her home, but sure enough she was outside loading her own vehicle so I dove down under the window so she wouldn't see me too soon. Then as she walked up to Kelly's driver side window, I couldn't stay in any longer and jumped out of the car.
I was expecting a shriek and a hug - instead she screamed and took off running. Seeing her turn around with tears in her eyes brought on the waterworks for me as well! I've missed Los Angeles and these girls so much - all I needed was a reason to cry myself! That moment right there was worth coming out to CA for!
The rest was typical Scrappin' Shack: drove the couple of hours up to Lake Arrowhead, went out to eat & shopped for the one meal we each prepare, arrive at the house, unpack, and jump up and down with excitement that we were there. I had a marvelous time - but I expected no less. I worked on my Project Life album and a little bit of Grant's school album. Then there was the Dance Party in the living room on Friday night. I'm actually glad I don't have pictures of that in an attempt to preserve my own self-esteem, but good gracious was it fun.
Me + my girls + the Scrappin' Shack = eternal, undying love
11.18.2011
The tale of the MIA blogger
Here it is - a riveting story. One of suspense, intrigue, and all those will-she-or-won't-she moments that every good story requires. It all starts on an all together too lovely day in California as the main character - - for kicks, let's call her Katy -- realizes she has to leave her home of 4 years (7 years if you count the time spent at Edwards, CA).
Like most people living in complete denial, she doesn't pack nor does she barely want to discuss leaving her beautiful, temperate weather, friend-filled corner of the Los Angeles area. But since she had the complete misfortune of marrying a super intelligent, hard-working Air Force man that got himself into a great Master's degree program in Ohio, she had no choice but to follow him. Oh, woe is me...I mean, her.
Sure, there was adventure awaiting them in Ohio as well. Will she make new friends? Will she find adequate shopping? Will they survive their first real winter or will their family read about the discovering of their frozen bodies in the news?...and more importantly...will they get by knowing their town doesn't have a Costco?
On August 1st, the day arrived to say adios to Los Angeles. Katy, in her characteristic way of saying good-bye to inanimate objects and/or things that can't respond back, yelled out the minivan window "Good-bye ocean view!" "Good-bye 405 freeway - I learned to navigate your perils quite well!" "Goodbye Disneyland - I shall miss you most!" and "Good-bye random graffiti that was oddly comforting sometimes!"
The journey of this family of four from CA to OH involved several stops along the way: Las Vegas, NV; Salt Lake City, UT; Wyoming, Nebraska, Missouri, and Illinois until they reached their final destination: Wright Patterson AFB in Ohio.
And to sum up the last 3 1/2 months there has been:
*rain
*missing CA and CA friends
*realizing the above makes one seek comfort in food
*more rain
*Grant becoming a kindergartner
*finding our way around
*unpacking & decorating
*realizing the above is easier and quicker because of the complete lack of traffic
*starting to get out there and make some friends
*and did I mention rain yet?
So because of the aforementioned activities, the will-she-or-won't-she update her blog has taken place. I'm sure it's been riveting - an emotional roller coaster. I'm sure all 5 of the people that read this blog have been on the edge of their seats for...minutes.
And what's a story without pictures? Not a good one - at least that's what Grant & Kyle would say.
Like most people living in complete denial, she doesn't pack nor does she barely want to discuss leaving her beautiful, temperate weather, friend-filled corner of the Los Angeles area. But since she had the complete misfortune of marrying a super intelligent, hard-working Air Force man that got himself into a great Master's degree program in Ohio, she had no choice but to follow him. Oh, woe is me...I mean, her.
Sure, there was adventure awaiting them in Ohio as well. Will she make new friends? Will she find adequate shopping? Will they survive their first real winter or will their family read about the discovering of their frozen bodies in the news?...and more importantly...will they get by knowing their town doesn't have a Costco?
On August 1st, the day arrived to say adios to Los Angeles. Katy, in her characteristic way of saying good-bye to inanimate objects and/or things that can't respond back, yelled out the minivan window "Good-bye ocean view!" "Good-bye 405 freeway - I learned to navigate your perils quite well!" "Goodbye Disneyland - I shall miss you most!" and "Good-bye random graffiti that was oddly comforting sometimes!"
The journey of this family of four from CA to OH involved several stops along the way: Las Vegas, NV; Salt Lake City, UT; Wyoming, Nebraska, Missouri, and Illinois until they reached their final destination: Wright Patterson AFB in Ohio.
not too shabby
And to sum up the last 3 1/2 months there has been:
*rain
*missing CA and CA friends
*realizing the above makes one seek comfort in food
*more rain
*Grant becoming a kindergartner
*finding our way around
*unpacking & decorating
*realizing the above is easier and quicker because of the complete lack of traffic
*starting to get out there and make some friends
*and did I mention rain yet?
So because of the aforementioned activities, the will-she-or-won't-she update her blog has taken place. I'm sure it's been riveting - an emotional roller coaster. I'm sure all 5 of the people that read this blog have been on the edge of their seats for...minutes.
And what's a story without pictures? Not a good one - at least that's what Grant & Kyle would say.
 |
| One of the last Disney visits with friends - can you see in Grant's face that was pretty much the hottest day of the summer? |
 |
| this part is always the worst - you think it will never end! |
 |
| Me and my Beth - had to get a load of that view one more time |
 |
| en route - - had to spend the day at our college, Brigham Young University, to relive those pre-children days |
 |
| Grant's first sentence - said all. by. himself. "I...love...you" It was so cute it killed us. |
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| First Day of Kindergarten |
 |
| The school is very close to our home - just a few minutes walk, though Grant qualifies for bus service so we send him on the bus. I hear in winter I'll be extremely grateful for it! |
 |
| I've been very impressed with the school, the staff, and his teacher - she is wonderful! Loves Grant & the other kids so very much and is a great resource for helping us during this first year! |
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| Rain - typical. And a cute little boy. Let's just focus on the cute little boy. |
 |
| Eeyore & a Monkey - as long as we live in these colder areas, I shall always buy these thick, warm costumes. I don't care if Kyle's 13 years old - he'll wear a monkey costume like this and be warm, darn it.
So that is the tale of the missing blogger. She is found and will continue to post pictures of her adorable children and rants about the weather with contributions of chocolate or Target gift cards. Because she straight up lives at Target and giving her a Target gift card is pretty much like giving her cash.
*Speaking of donations (for real this time): see the sweet boy in the upper right corner?? That's Lawrence and I'm his Christmas Warrior for this holiday season. Reread the below posts about Reece's Rainbow to learn more about this wonderful organization. If you can, consider a small donation to help make this the LAST Christmas Lawrence spends in those awful institutions. There really are success stories with this organization and we can help LAWRENCE become one of those success stories!! |
8.27.2011
OHIO
Holy Toledo has this been some month! We are all moved in here at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio and I'm dying to show pictures of our new home and from our cross country trek east. And Grant started kindergarten! I just need to get that dang linen closet organized because it was quite literally a "throw it here" zone - it needs help now that the rest of the rooms are livable!
In other great news, guess who has a family and is going to be adopted.......Preston!!!!! I saw on Reece's Rainbow that a family has committed to him!!! They were set to adopt another child but it fell through because the birth parents came back to claim him. So, they became determined to give another child a home - our Preston! Thanks again to all who helped in any way - financial, prayers, or otherwise. Your efforts have helped that sweet family as they embark on the extraordinary (and expensive!) effort of bringing him to a loving home of his own. I love a good success story!!
In other great news, guess who has a family and is going to be adopted.......Preston!!!!! I saw on Reece's Rainbow that a family has committed to him!!! They were set to adopt another child but it fell through because the birth parents came back to claim him. So, they became determined to give another child a home - our Preston! Thanks again to all who helped in any way - financial, prayers, or otherwise. Your efforts have helped that sweet family as they embark on the extraordinary (and expensive!) effort of bringing him to a loving home of his own. I love a good success story!!
7.19.2011
another giveaway for Preston!
We are getting so close to $500! With this fundraiser being the 5/5/5 Project fundraiser, it just seems fitting to hit $500 (or more of course!). The more information I learn about this organization and international adoption, the more I have to share. To remind you why me and many other people work to raise money for these special children, let me give you a quick run-down:
*Adoption is quite expensive - international adoption is even more expensive.
*It would be wonderful if every loving family in the world took in these abandoned, special children, but not every family can. It's just not realistic for all people and families.
*However, there ARE families out there who can and do want to take these children in and initial costs are the only prohibitive factor.
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Each child with special needs associated with Reece's Rainbow has a grant fund.
Those funds are held in reserve for that child when a family comes along and commits to their adoption.
When a child has a good amount of money in their fund, it means they may get chosen a little faster - makes their adoption a little easier and smoother. Especially important for the 5 year olds like Preston who face imminent institutionalization if the ball doesn't get rolling quick for the families.
Every dollar you donate goes to help that child - in our case Preston - get a family. Then it helps that family get one step closer to bringing him home. Like those at Reece's Rainbow say: "You don't have to adopt to make a difference!"
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We know:
Every child deserves parents that hug and kiss them everyday.
Every child deserves attention, a full tummy, and clean clothes.
Every child deserves opportunities to learn and opportunities to have fun.
Every child deserves a home.
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Please help this very deserving child find his forever family. Please find it in your heart to do what you can to financially help that future family rescue Preston from the stifling, hopeless future of institution life. As I tuck my two sweet boys in bed at night I'm humbled at the sheer abundance we enjoy. I know I take it for granted and don't appreciate it enough. I'm so grateful that God sent Grant to our home - a home where he is loved, valued, and cherished, and in a country where we educate, give excellent health care, and support those with special needs. I only hope and pray for the same thing for Preston and every other child waiting for families to find them!
...which brings us to the giveaway. As you consider helping me reach that $500 mark, allow me to show you what you could win as a reminder of your help and love!!
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...A beautiful light teal blue Sparrow Bird's Nest Necklace from Amula Designs. The soft blue color seemed fitting considering it was in honor of one adorable little boy! And I love the bird charm that watches over the eggs. These bird nest necklaces are a quite popular item now and this is your chance to receive one AND get that warm feeling inside that you helped a special little child! Even if you don't win you get that warm, cozy feeling!
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This necklace is about 1 inch in diameter and hangs from an 18 inch silver plated chain. It's so pretty and sweet isn't it?!
To Enter:
*Adoption is quite expensive - international adoption is even more expensive.
*It would be wonderful if every loving family in the world took in these abandoned, special children, but not every family can. It's just not realistic for all people and families.
*However, there ARE families out there who can and do want to take these children in and initial costs are the only prohibitive factor.
That's where you and I come in!
Each child with special needs associated with Reece's Rainbow has a grant fund.
Those funds are held in reserve for that child when a family comes along and commits to their adoption.
When a child has a good amount of money in their fund, it means they may get chosen a little faster - makes their adoption a little easier and smoother. Especially important for the 5 year olds like Preston who face imminent institutionalization if the ball doesn't get rolling quick for the families.
Every dollar you donate goes to help that child - in our case Preston - get a family. Then it helps that family get one step closer to bringing him home. Like those at Reece's Rainbow say: "You don't have to adopt to make a difference!"
Sweet Preston - and all the other 5 year olds/almost 5 year olds - face being sent from the (relatively) good care in the baby orphanages to a life sentence in a mental institution if they are not adopted by around age 5. A place where food is not plentiful and little or no attention is given. A place where children and adults are given nothing to occupy their time and are even sometimes forcibly tied to their prison-like beds. A place where life and potential is wasted away. It is no place for a child. No place for anyone, especially the most helpless and innocent in our world. In the country where he's from, they don't value or understand those with Down syndrome. They shove them away and hide them. They think they have no worth and would be a burden to families and societies. But you and I know better.
We know:
Every child deserves parents that hug and kiss them everyday.
Every child deserves attention, a full tummy, and clean clothes.
Every child deserves opportunities to learn and opportunities to have fun.
Every child deserves a home.
Please help this very deserving child find his forever family. Please find it in your heart to do what you can to financially help that future family rescue Preston from the stifling, hopeless future of institution life. As I tuck my two sweet boys in bed at night I'm humbled at the sheer abundance we enjoy. I know I take it for granted and don't appreciate it enough. I'm so grateful that God sent Grant to our home - a home where he is loved, valued, and cherished, and in a country where we educate, give excellent health care, and support those with special needs. I only hope and pray for the same thing for Preston and every other child waiting for families to find them!
...which brings us to the giveaway. As you consider helping me reach that $500 mark, allow me to show you what you could win as a reminder of your help and love!!
...A beautiful light teal blue Sparrow Bird's Nest Necklace from Amula Designs. The soft blue color seemed fitting considering it was in honor of one adorable little boy! And I love the bird charm that watches over the eggs. These bird nest necklaces are a quite popular item now and this is your chance to receive one AND get that warm feeling inside that you helped a special little child! Even if you don't win you get that warm, cozy feeling!
This necklace is about 1 inch in diameter and hangs from an 18 inch silver plated chain. It's so pretty and sweet isn't it?!
To Enter:
*Simply make a donation of any amount using the link in the upper right corner (remember it's tax deductible!). No amount is too small - any contribution is appreciated!
*After you have done so, please leave me a comment - you do not need to tell me the amount, simply: "Hey Katy! I would love to win that necklace!" Since the donation goes directly to Reece's Rainbow, I will not know the exact amount and/or who it's from. It's between you and Preston! ;)
*For an extra entry, facebook about this giveaway or mention it on your blog. Let me know that you did! Let's spread the word that Preston's waiting for a family of his own!
*The giveaway will end July 23rd. - that's in 5 days! The winner will be picked randomly and I will email them to let them know (will also post it here!)
Thank you yet again for your generosity and love!!
7.18.2011
say hello to the newest minivan mom
You read that right. I'm the world's (or at least San Pedro's) newest owner of a minivan. A few years ago, I wouldn't be too proud to admit this, but after years of one car living (in a not very large car at that) the 'we need a minivan' bug finally hit us. And once you give into that idea, you realize how great minivans are for young families! Before I tell you the story, here is a picture of our fabulous new addition - a 2011 Honda Odyssey!!
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Okay, we didn't just wake up one morning last week and decided to purchase this for fun. We've been thinking, planning, saving, talking about, occasionally test driving, and doing even more saving for about a year now. We are not impulse, emotion buyers. :)
In recent weeks we realized we had finally saved nearly all of the amount to purchase the 2011 Honda Odyssey - our number one choice. However, we also started toying with the idea of purchasing a used Honda minivan for various reasons. We test drove used vans and they also seemed like a viable option. By this point, I really didn't care too much anymore if we got the brand new or a good used van - I just thought we needed one soon!
This past Thursday, Landon woke up discussing the idea that we might just wait until we got to Ohio to purchase our minivan. Since the natural disasters in Japan, the inventory of new Odysseys has been quite short and finding exactly what we would want to purchase in our local area has been difficult. We were starting to check out more and more used vans when - after a day of Landon taking lots of phone calls in private and "running errands" quite a bit - he tells me to get the kids ready to grab a quick bite to eat out for dinner. I get us ready, Landon comes home, but then says 'Wait a minute. I'm going to run the shopette, be right back.' Okay, so I wait again. But I decided to wait outside and as I'm getting ready to put the kids in the car, here comes Landon driving up our street in the brand new Odyssey!
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Basically, I freaked out. This purchase that we had been discussing and planning for more than a year, this purchase that I was starting to think wouldn't come about for some time, suddenly had materialized on my doorstep! I was so excited - and to top it off it had a big red bow like all those car commercials at Christmas time. It was such a funny, wonderful surprise and as Landon told me the story of how it came about, I realized how much he had been throwing me off the trail to truly make this a complete shock!
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We've had it for a few days now and we love it! It has leather, a back-up camera, a DVD player (a MUST, especially for our big move to Ohio coming up in two weeks), and a dozen other cool features that impress us (since we don't buy new cars very often - this is only our second - these new features easily impress us!:) But our favorite feature so far is the Bluetooth sync feature. Basically, our phones are synced with the vehicle and when we make calls from the minivan, we use the speakers to speak and listen - completely hands free and easy. Very cool!
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But my favorite thing about the minivan is that after months and months of saving for it, we paid for it in full. Of course, we've been fortunate enough to get by easily with our one car thanks to the bus system that takes Landon to the base and back, which afforded us the ability to wait and save up. But it feels good to say that we OWN the van outright. Makes all those months of waiting (which perhaps were harder for me than for him I think!) worth it.
Welcome to the family, Mini!
Okay, we didn't just wake up one morning last week and decided to purchase this for fun. We've been thinking, planning, saving, talking about, occasionally test driving, and doing even more saving for about a year now. We are not impulse, emotion buyers. :)
In recent weeks we realized we had finally saved nearly all of the amount to purchase the 2011 Honda Odyssey - our number one choice. However, we also started toying with the idea of purchasing a used Honda minivan for various reasons. We test drove used vans and they also seemed like a viable option. By this point, I really didn't care too much anymore if we got the brand new or a good used van - I just thought we needed one soon!
This past Thursday, Landon woke up discussing the idea that we might just wait until we got to Ohio to purchase our minivan. Since the natural disasters in Japan, the inventory of new Odysseys has been quite short and finding exactly what we would want to purchase in our local area has been difficult. We were starting to check out more and more used vans when - after a day of Landon taking lots of phone calls in private and "running errands" quite a bit - he tells me to get the kids ready to grab a quick bite to eat out for dinner. I get us ready, Landon comes home, but then says 'Wait a minute. I'm going to run the shopette, be right back.' Okay, so I wait again. But I decided to wait outside and as I'm getting ready to put the kids in the car, here comes Landon driving up our street in the brand new Odyssey!
Basically, I freaked out. This purchase that we had been discussing and planning for more than a year, this purchase that I was starting to think wouldn't come about for some time, suddenly had materialized on my doorstep! I was so excited - and to top it off it had a big red bow like all those car commercials at Christmas time. It was such a funny, wonderful surprise and as Landon told me the story of how it came about, I realized how much he had been throwing me off the trail to truly make this a complete shock!
We've had it for a few days now and we love it! It has leather, a back-up camera, a DVD player (a MUST, especially for our big move to Ohio coming up in two weeks), and a dozen other cool features that impress us (since we don't buy new cars very often - this is only our second - these new features easily impress us!:) But our favorite feature so far is the Bluetooth sync feature. Basically, our phones are synced with the vehicle and when we make calls from the minivan, we use the speakers to speak and listen - completely hands free and easy. Very cool!
But my favorite thing about the minivan is that after months and months of saving for it, we paid for it in full. Of course, we've been fortunate enough to get by easily with our one car thanks to the bus system that takes Landon to the base and back, which afforded us the ability to wait and save up. But it feels good to say that we OWN the van outright. Makes all those months of waiting (which perhaps were harder for me than for him I think!) worth it.
Welcome to the family, Mini!
6.19.2011
Preston's giveaway winner
Can I first just say a big THANK YOU?
This was my first time ever doing a giveaway of any sort and I'm so glad that you all dropped by to enter! Also, I'm grateful for any help - through donations or spreading the word - you gave. If you look to the right - - - - - > you'll see that we've raised almost $100 since last week! Thank you so much. It really warms my heart to imagine the help we've given to someone looking to adopt little Preston. And if only Preston knew about all you out there, I'm sure it would make him feel so good as well.
I TRULY wish that I could have made something special for all of you - it kind of bummed me out when I reminded myself that only one of you would receive it! But, that lucky gal is:
This was my first time ever doing a giveaway of any sort and I'm so glad that you all dropped by to enter! Also, I'm grateful for any help - through donations or spreading the word - you gave. If you look to the right - - - - - > you'll see that we've raised almost $100 since last week! Thank you so much. It really warms my heart to imagine the help we've given to someone looking to adopt little Preston. And if only Preston knew about all you out there, I'm sure it would make him feel so good as well.
I TRULY wish that I could have made something special for all of you - it kind of bummed me out when I reminded myself that only one of you would receive it! But, that lucky gal is:
Samantha!!
Thank you again for all who entered and for all who've contributed in any way since introducing Preston here several weeks ago. You're all great!
**Oh, and I was mistaken about one thing in my earlier giveaway post: I'd been telling myself that this special 5/5/5 fundraising effort ended July 1st, but I am wrong. It ends July 31st! We are moving soon so it's not likely I'll do another fundraising giveaway, but don't be surprised if you see one either since we have a whole month left.
Now, I'm off with Landon on our week long cruise!! I'm leaving the U.S.
a 28-year-old and a returning as a 29-year-old!
6.13.2011
a giveaway in honor of Preston!
The special fundraising efforts for Preston formally end July 1st, so in one last effort to collect funds and get his picture out there one more time, I'm holding a very special giveaway! (Other post about Preston - click here) The item for the giveaway is...
....a handmade Happy Birthday fabric banner! I've sewn several now and love how they turn out. This is the last of this color combo of banner (same as my own) and I love the happy, bright colors that can be used for any birthday - boy or girl.
....a handmade Happy Birthday fabric banner! I've sewn several now and love how they turn out. This is the last of this color combo of banner (same as my own) and I love the happy, bright colors that can be used for any birthday - boy or girl.
This banner is approximately 8 feet long and each pennant is about 8 inches tall - a good size that will definately get the "Happy Birthday" sentiment out loud and clear! Each letter is zig zag stitched on, adding even more promise that this banner will last through many birthdays to come.
The details:
*Simply leave a comment if you wish to be entered in the giveaway.
That's it! While a donation to Preston/Reece's Rainbow isn't mandatory to enter, please consider doing so - any amount - big or small (tax deductible!). Please use the donate button in the upper right corner - it goes directly to Reece's Rainbow and those funds are held in reserve for Preston's adoption fees. I don't see who has donated or how much, so it's completely up to you. For those who've already donated (we're at $294 as I type this! Woohoo!), just a leave a comment and thank you for already donating!
*Want another chance or two? For more entries, post on Facebook about this banner giveaway and leave another comment to let me know. You can also post about it on your blog and link back to this giveaway (leave a comment about this as well). That makes three entries total if you desire.
Just as appreciated as a donation, helping to spread the word about Preston and this organization is a needful service. You never know - Preston's future family may be connected to him through our efforts!
*Giveaway begins today and ends June 16th at midnight. At that time, I'll gather the entries and the winner will be randomly selected. I will contact you if you're the lucky recipient! (please leave your email in your comment if you think I don't already have it) Contact me at ktalice (at) hotmail (dot) com if you have any questions!
I'm so glad I found this organization. They work tirelessly to find homes for special needs children around the world that aren't blessed with the same resources children here enjoy. We just helped at the Special Olympics here in Southern California and it was amazing what wonderful support we recieve here in the States compared to many other countries that simply try to forget about those born with special needs.
In many of the countries these children are born in, the parents here the diagnosis of Down syndrome and the child is often rejected at the hospital. Most have never lived a non-orphanage/institutionalized life. If they only knew what we know about the positive potential and happiness these children bring! Whether or not you donate, please consider forwarding this information to those who may be interested. Maybe by Preston's next birthday, his forever family will have found him!
For more information about Preston, please click on his picture in the upper right corner. For more information about Reece's Rainbow and the wonderful mission they seek to accomplish (including information about many other deserving special needs children - they do serve more than just children with Down syndrome), please click the icon below.
Good luck! And a big Thank you for your thoughts and prayers on behalf of Preston and the other deserving children!
6.10.2011
a Toy Story birthday
Even though the weather reports threatened to change my plans, I was determined to have Grant's 5th birthday party outside behind our house. Once I get an idea in mind...nothing better come along and change it - most certainly the weather!
We set up a few tables, hung balloons, and the Happy Birthday banner I had just made had it's first public appearance. (***take note of this banner! A banner very similar to this will be part of a fundraising giveaway for Preston here on the blog next week!***)
For the first time, we rented a bounce house. It was - of course - a big hit with the kids. I'm realizing that's all you need for a party: a bounce house and cake.
The birthday boy is modeling his custom Woody-style shirt that his mother made for him. Kyle also got a Buzz Lightyear shirt, and had I had more time, I would have liked to make shirts like these for all the kids because they really were quite simple to make!
Other activities included bubble blowing with Landon...
blanket swinging (that was a last minute idea and favorite of our children)...
eating pizza...
a rousing game of pin-the-tail on Bullseye...
candle blowing & birthday wishing...
and present opening (by Grant) and watching the funny Grant expressions (the rest of us).
Happy #5 sweet boy Grant! Any occasion we have to celebrate YOU, we'll take it!
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