We have had such a great time preparing for and celebrating Christmas this year! Last year we had just closed on our house on Dec 8th and began moving in on the 9th, which left very little time to shop and decorate for Christmas. We've been anticipating the enjoyment of the Christmas season for a year now! So this year we really indulged in baking, hanging lights, wrapping gifts, listening to the songs and simply enjoying the season. Yesterday Caleb and I laughed hysterically at the line in Little Drummer Boy that says, "The ox and lamb kept time..." We both acted out parts as an ox or a lamb stomping our hooves, swinging our (immaginary) tail or baaaaa-ing in beat. Pretty funny stuff if you can get a visual of the two of us acting it out between lauging so hard we could barely breath!
Last night we attended our church's candlelight service. It was fun to dress the kids up in their Christmas clothes and go sing beautiful songs and take communion as we celebrated God's love for us. How significant those songs are when we consider that the God of the universe loved us enough to take on flesh and walk among us and ultimately die for us. It still amazes me and I hope that it never because mundane for us. Next we headed over to our good friends' house for a wonderful dinner, games and a lot of laughs.
Today we went to my cousin Deb's house and had a terrific time together! It was so great to just visit, eat and share the day together. On Friday, we plan to fly to AZ to see my family. I can hardly wait and I just want to pinch myself when I think about it. Sunday is my 31st birthday and I'm excited that I get to spend it with my parents! I absolutely LOVE this time of year and getting to go home to AZ makes it that much more special!
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Thursday's 13 ~ Things About Our Kids
1. Out of our 3 children, only 1 of them can whistle. It's the 1 year old!
2. Delainey is starting to learn the names of letters and the sounds they make. She LOVES to "play school" and "do homework".
3. Tonight at the dinner table Bryant said "Come to Papa" to a sugar-snap pea he was getting ready to eat. Then he accidentally dropped it on the table and he dramatically said, "I just dropped my grandson!". (to him, Papa means grandfather- their interpretation of things is so funny!)
4. Elle has now added "yes" and "Momo" to her vocabulary!
5. Bryant is finally getting good at cleaning his own room and keeping things organized without me having to walk him through every step!!
6. I have yet to meet another kid who is the dominant one around Delainey. I'm not sure if that is a good thing or a bad thing.
7. Bryant was honored to receive the Kiwanis "Terrific Kid" award this month!
8. Delainey recently informed us that she wants us to take her to the airport so she can get on an airplane and fly to Michigan ALONE! She stressed that she did not want us going to Granny & Pops house with her but that she'd be back home soon, as long as she got to go all by herself.
9. Elle has recently learned to walk and has progressed from a "Drunk Orangutan" to a "Sober Orangutan". It is so fun watching her motor around the house with this new found independence.
10. Delainey would rather help me in the kitchen than play with any toy in the world. This makes it difficult to get dishes done or dinner on the table but I am so honored that she loves to spend time with me that much!
11. Elle is finally putting on a little weight and seems much more energetic since we've started giving her iron drops!
12. Bryant just asked a couple of weeks ago if he could be baptized, which we are absolutely ecstatic about!
13. Our computer now is used more for things like barbie.com, lego.com, pbs.org and kid things than the normal stuff like finances and e-mail. I find myself competing with the kids for computer time.
There is never a day that goes by that they don't make us laugh out loud. We hope there is never a day that goes by where we don't realize just how incredibly blessed we are! The choice for me to stay at home with our children has financial sacrifices but I wouldn't trade all the money in the world for the memories I get to make with these precious little ones. I thank the Lord continuously for blessing me far beyond anything I could ever deserve!
2. Delainey is starting to learn the names of letters and the sounds they make. She LOVES to "play school" and "do homework".
3. Tonight at the dinner table Bryant said "Come to Papa" to a sugar-snap pea he was getting ready to eat. Then he accidentally dropped it on the table and he dramatically said, "I just dropped my grandson!". (to him, Papa means grandfather- their interpretation of things is so funny!)
4. Elle has now added "yes" and "Momo" to her vocabulary!
5. Bryant is finally getting good at cleaning his own room and keeping things organized without me having to walk him through every step!!
6. I have yet to meet another kid who is the dominant one around Delainey. I'm not sure if that is a good thing or a bad thing.
7. Bryant was honored to receive the Kiwanis "Terrific Kid" award this month!
8. Delainey recently informed us that she wants us to take her to the airport so she can get on an airplane and fly to Michigan ALONE! She stressed that she did not want us going to Granny & Pops house with her but that she'd be back home soon, as long as she got to go all by herself.
9. Elle has recently learned to walk and has progressed from a "Drunk Orangutan" to a "Sober Orangutan". It is so fun watching her motor around the house with this new found independence.
10. Delainey would rather help me in the kitchen than play with any toy in the world. This makes it difficult to get dishes done or dinner on the table but I am so honored that she loves to spend time with me that much!
11. Elle is finally putting on a little weight and seems much more energetic since we've started giving her iron drops!
12. Bryant just asked a couple of weeks ago if he could be baptized, which we are absolutely ecstatic about!
13. Our computer now is used more for things like barbie.com, lego.com, pbs.org and kid things than the normal stuff like finances and e-mail. I find myself competing with the kids for computer time.
There is never a day that goes by that they don't make us laugh out loud. We hope there is never a day that goes by where we don't realize just how incredibly blessed we are! The choice for me to stay at home with our children has financial sacrifices but I wouldn't trade all the money in the world for the memories I get to make with these precious little ones. I thank the Lord continuously for blessing me far beyond anything I could ever deserve!
Saturday, December 15, 2007
I did the personality test thing, do you agree with the results?...
You Are An ENFJ |
 The Giver You strive to maintain harmony in relationships, and usually succeed. Articulate and enthusiastic, you are good at making personal connections. Sometimes you idealize relationships too much - and end up being let down. You find the most energy and comfort in social situations ... where you shine. In love, you are very protective and supporting. However, you do need to "feel special" - and it's quite easy for you to get jealous. At work, you are a natural leader. You can help people discover their greatest potential. You would make a good writer, human resources director, or psychologist. How you see yourself: Trusting, idealistic, and expressive When other people don't get you, they see you as: Bossy, inappropriate, and loud |
Monday, December 10, 2007
Gradparents Rock!
We had the privilege in the last week of having both my mom and Caleb's parents come to visit. Not at the same time, but within 2 days of each other. This is truly the highlight of our kids' year- having grandparents visit. My dad, "Papa", wasn't able to come this time around but we're going to keep on him until he is able to break away from work and come see these kids who miss him like crazy. I know it must have nearly killed him to let my mom come without him. That's truly unselfish love!
When my mom was here we went downtown and mostly just spent quality time together. It was very refreshing for her to get away from her new restaurant and take a breather- but it was just as refreshing for me and Caleb. Time with Mom is always a treasure. And of course, the kids love having Momo in the house because she is such a tender, loving influence. They each get to share so many precious moments with her, like a tender cuddle session or a sweet song. She is a teacher at heart, always finding a life lesson in the simplest things. She imparts wisdom in their lives and I believe she prays a great deal for this legacy she and my dad have built. She is especially good at soothing and nurturing. Simply put, she just warms up a room. Delainey told her "We're going to hold on to your legs so you can't leave." Sadly, I did take her to the airport last Tuesday. I drove away with tears stinging my eyes because I knew I wouldn't get to see her again for a few months. But God has really blessed us with my older brother's job at USAirways so my parents fly for about $50 round-trip. At least I get to look forward to visits every few months. I can't wait until the next visit. Next time, WE WANT PAPA TOO!
We also took Caleb's parents downtown and enjoyed the beautifully decorated stores and buildings that really get me into the "Christmas spirit". We also spent a lot of time around the house- decorating for Christmas and baking. Caleb's parents are always so helpful with things like yard work. Caleb's dad likes to jump in and mow the lawn or whatever else he sees he could help in. He's been known to strip and re-wax a tiled floor in a day just to pass the time. He loves projects he can put his heart into. Since he loves us so much, anything that helps us, he puts his heart into. Caleb's mom is notoriously fun for the kids. She loves to read books, jump on the trampoline, sing songs, go to the movies and bake cookies. She does such a great job of spending time with the kids and making memories. The kids sing the songs she has taught them, months after a visit. Bryant sang "John Jacob Jingle-Heimer Schmitt" since he could first talk because his Granny taught it to him. There is no shortage of fun when Granny and Pops are in town! We also opened presents from Granny & Pops while they were here. Caleb's parents have bought probably more than 50% of our children's clothes and toys over the years. They are extremely generous to us and we appreciate the countless ways they give to us.
What an exciting month December is this year! Grandparents AND Christmas, what more could a kid want? Oh, I know, they want Papa too!
(I'll try to post pictures from these visits soon)
When my mom was here we went downtown and mostly just spent quality time together. It was very refreshing for her to get away from her new restaurant and take a breather- but it was just as refreshing for me and Caleb. Time with Mom is always a treasure. And of course, the kids love having Momo in the house because she is such a tender, loving influence. They each get to share so many precious moments with her, like a tender cuddle session or a sweet song. She is a teacher at heart, always finding a life lesson in the simplest things. She imparts wisdom in their lives and I believe she prays a great deal for this legacy she and my dad have built. She is especially good at soothing and nurturing. Simply put, she just warms up a room. Delainey told her "We're going to hold on to your legs so you can't leave." Sadly, I did take her to the airport last Tuesday. I drove away with tears stinging my eyes because I knew I wouldn't get to see her again for a few months. But God has really blessed us with my older brother's job at USAirways so my parents fly for about $50 round-trip. At least I get to look forward to visits every few months. I can't wait until the next visit. Next time, WE WANT PAPA TOO!
We also took Caleb's parents downtown and enjoyed the beautifully decorated stores and buildings that really get me into the "Christmas spirit". We also spent a lot of time around the house- decorating for Christmas and baking. Caleb's parents are always so helpful with things like yard work. Caleb's dad likes to jump in and mow the lawn or whatever else he sees he could help in. He's been known to strip and re-wax a tiled floor in a day just to pass the time. He loves projects he can put his heart into. Since he loves us so much, anything that helps us, he puts his heart into. Caleb's mom is notoriously fun for the kids. She loves to read books, jump on the trampoline, sing songs, go to the movies and bake cookies. She does such a great job of spending time with the kids and making memories. The kids sing the songs she has taught them, months after a visit. Bryant sang "John Jacob Jingle-Heimer Schmitt" since he could first talk because his Granny taught it to him. There is no shortage of fun when Granny and Pops are in town! We also opened presents from Granny & Pops while they were here. Caleb's parents have bought probably more than 50% of our children's clothes and toys over the years. They are extremely generous to us and we appreciate the countless ways they give to us.
What an exciting month December is this year! Grandparents AND Christmas, what more could a kid want? Oh, I know, they want Papa too!
(I'll try to post pictures from these visits soon)
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Unexpected Blessings
It was 9:30 p.m., last night. My mind was racing through all the things I needed to do today like wash sheets, clean bathrooms, dust and prepare for our company who would arrive the day after. Just as I was getting ready to slip into bed, the phone rang. I was surprised my friend would be calling me so late but I'm glad I answered. She said she had just been given 4 tickets to go see Beauty and the Beast at the College of Charleston. She wanted to know if the girls and I could join her early the next morning.
I had already decided I couldn't add ANYTHING to my schedule for today because I had way more on my plate than I could resonably handle. I took five minutes to think it over and called her back to accept her invitation. So I got up at 5am this morning, got Bry off to school, got myself and the girls ready and headed downtown. After wandering downtown for a little while, we finally found our way to the Theatre. We thoroughly enjoyed the show. Elle sat through the entire thing, clapping and saying "Oooo" on the pretty parts. Delainey was a little nervous about the beast but ended up liking the whole thing very much.
So, as if I'm not far enough behind today, now I'm sitting down to blog about it! It was a great time and even though I blew off a "To-Do" list of about 30 things, I'm so thankful for the opportunity! ...Now, I'm off to work!
I had already decided I couldn't add ANYTHING to my schedule for today because I had way more on my plate than I could resonably handle. I took five minutes to think it over and called her back to accept her invitation. So I got up at 5am this morning, got Bry off to school, got myself and the girls ready and headed downtown. After wandering downtown for a little while, we finally found our way to the Theatre. We thoroughly enjoyed the show. Elle sat through the entire thing, clapping and saying "Oooo" on the pretty parts. Delainey was a little nervous about the beast but ended up liking the whole thing very much.
So, as if I'm not far enough behind today, now I'm sitting down to blog about it! It was a great time and even though I blew off a "To-Do" list of about 30 things, I'm so thankful for the opportunity! ...Now, I'm off to work!
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
24 Things I Love About My Sister…
Today is my sister’s 24th birthday. In honor of her, I wanted to write 24 of the many things I love about her.
1. She has a great deal of courage. She moved out when she was 18 to pursue her college, dreams and career. She also moved to Hawaii even though she knew no one else on the island because she had a dream to pursue.
2. She keeps it real and simple. Stacy’s not afraid to be seen with out makeup (she shouldn’t be since she’s naturally gorgeous) and she’s not too proud to cry in front of people. She’s not fake and she’s not fussy- just herself.
3. She has an amazing ability to interact with children. Stacy has always had such a love for children. She adores her nieces and nephews and has always made time to converse with children. Even as a teenager, she loved the kids she taught swimming lessons to almost as much as they loved her.
4. Stacy has a great sense of style. She can make flip-flops look good with anything and she can pull the best outfit together on a modest budget.
5. She has great hair, which I can’t give her credit for since she was born with it, but it’s hers none-the-less. She has this gorgeous, golden curly hair that makes anyone who sees it, want that kind of hair.
6. She has a priority of family. Our family is so important to her and she shows her love by going out of her way to spend time with everyone.
7. Her example of great work ethic. Since her teenage years, she has been promoted to positions of authority. She takes her work seriously and even missed Delainey’s birth so that she wouldn’t miss her shift because she knew people were counting on her.
8. She has such a great smile. I love the little gap between her front teeth and I love her dimples too.
9. She is a faithful friend. She is still in touch with so many friends from different times in her life. People see her from high school and know that no matter what or how long it’s been, Stacy is still their friend.
10. Stacy cares for the less fortunate. I remember when Stacy was in school she bought a very poor girl a pair of jeans for her birthday because she knew she didn’t have much. Stacy doesn’t classify people or befriend someone because of their status. She sees everyone as equal and as a potential friend.
11. She gives the best massages ever! It helps that she went to massage therapy school and that she has very strong arms. I loved it when she was in training and “needed to practice” massage. I was always a willing recipient.
12. A part of me will always see her as a beautiful little curly-headed girl with big dimples. No matter how old Stacy gets, I can always remember what an absolute doll she was as a little girl. I love that I was old enough to keep those precious memories of her as a baby and toddler.
13. She is very tender hearted. She is moved and touched by sweet things.
14. She’s resourceful. She can make the most of a tough situation and she’s good with stretching a budget.
15. She’s a dreamer and a romantic. She approaches situations with optimism and goodness. Like with owning a dog, she never owned a dog and didn’t know what all it entailed, but loved the idea of having a dog. It was tough, but she’s happily an owner of a sweet dog named Bert. (I call him Mr. Reynolds)
16. She loves old people. Stacy is so respectful and kind to older people. She always shows respect and takes time to talk with her elders as if they were a good friend.
17. Stacy is ambitious and intelligent. She dreams big and goes after it. She is fully capable and I think people who meet her recognize that.
18. She has such a great sense of adventure. She loves hiking, the outdoors and trying new things.
19. She is the perfect mixture of being girlie and a tom-boy. She’s beautiful but also strong.
20. She has dimples. Who doesn’t love dimples? I know I mentioned them before, but they are worth repeating.
21. Her crooked pinky finger. Not sure why, but I love that about her too.
22. I love the way she gets goofy when she’s sleepy. Maybe because I know the feeling.
23. She can beat me in a swimming race (which wasn’t always the case).
24. Her persevering attitude- she doesn’t give up when she’s had 2 car accidents in 2 weeks, a bad report from the Dr. and finances are tight- all at the same time.
Happy Birthday Stacy! We love you and miss you!
The Keslers
1. She has a great deal of courage. She moved out when she was 18 to pursue her college, dreams and career. She also moved to Hawaii even though she knew no one else on the island because she had a dream to pursue.
2. She keeps it real and simple. Stacy’s not afraid to be seen with out makeup (she shouldn’t be since she’s naturally gorgeous) and she’s not too proud to cry in front of people. She’s not fake and she’s not fussy- just herself.
3. She has an amazing ability to interact with children. Stacy has always had such a love for children. She adores her nieces and nephews and has always made time to converse with children. Even as a teenager, she loved the kids she taught swimming lessons to almost as much as they loved her.
4. Stacy has a great sense of style. She can make flip-flops look good with anything and she can pull the best outfit together on a modest budget.
5. She has great hair, which I can’t give her credit for since she was born with it, but it’s hers none-the-less. She has this gorgeous, golden curly hair that makes anyone who sees it, want that kind of hair.
6. She has a priority of family. Our family is so important to her and she shows her love by going out of her way to spend time with everyone.
7. Her example of great work ethic. Since her teenage years, she has been promoted to positions of authority. She takes her work seriously and even missed Delainey’s birth so that she wouldn’t miss her shift because she knew people were counting on her.
8. She has such a great smile. I love the little gap between her front teeth and I love her dimples too.
9. She is a faithful friend. She is still in touch with so many friends from different times in her life. People see her from high school and know that no matter what or how long it’s been, Stacy is still their friend.
10. Stacy cares for the less fortunate. I remember when Stacy was in school she bought a very poor girl a pair of jeans for her birthday because she knew she didn’t have much. Stacy doesn’t classify people or befriend someone because of their status. She sees everyone as equal and as a potential friend.
11. She gives the best massages ever! It helps that she went to massage therapy school and that she has very strong arms. I loved it when she was in training and “needed to practice” massage. I was always a willing recipient.
12. A part of me will always see her as a beautiful little curly-headed girl with big dimples. No matter how old Stacy gets, I can always remember what an absolute doll she was as a little girl. I love that I was old enough to keep those precious memories of her as a baby and toddler.
13. She is very tender hearted. She is moved and touched by sweet things.
14. She’s resourceful. She can make the most of a tough situation and she’s good with stretching a budget.
15. She’s a dreamer and a romantic. She approaches situations with optimism and goodness. Like with owning a dog, she never owned a dog and didn’t know what all it entailed, but loved the idea of having a dog. It was tough, but she’s happily an owner of a sweet dog named Bert. (I call him Mr. Reynolds)
16. She loves old people. Stacy is so respectful and kind to older people. She always shows respect and takes time to talk with her elders as if they were a good friend.
17. Stacy is ambitious and intelligent. She dreams big and goes after it. She is fully capable and I think people who meet her recognize that.
18. She has such a great sense of adventure. She loves hiking, the outdoors and trying new things.
19. She is the perfect mixture of being girlie and a tom-boy. She’s beautiful but also strong.
20. She has dimples. Who doesn’t love dimples? I know I mentioned them before, but they are worth repeating.
21. Her crooked pinky finger. Not sure why, but I love that about her too.
22. I love the way she gets goofy when she’s sleepy. Maybe because I know the feeling.
23. She can beat me in a swimming race (which wasn’t always the case).
24. Her persevering attitude- she doesn’t give up when she’s had 2 car accidents in 2 weeks, a bad report from the Dr. and finances are tight- all at the same time.
Happy Birthday Stacy! We love you and miss you!
The Keslers
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