whatsoever things

Physical Therapy

2009-07-01T14:29:00.000-07:00

Today I went to Physical therapy to figure what is going on with my left leg. I have not been able to run for 3 weeks now. I injured my left hip flexor. This is very common with people in my age group He told me that as you age your tendons get brittle. Well isn't that a delight? Gee Wiz! Anyway a little stretching and the start of a new walking program I should be able to run again in no time. I will be taking it easy though. The problem was I ran too far too fast instead of gradually moving up. I have learned a lesson and look forward to the healing process! Just an update to anyone who reads I will keep you posted.

Much needed date night!

2009-06-26T18:05:00.001-07:00

Brian and I are having a date to see one of our favorite comedians Brian Regan. He is so funny. The thing I like most about him is he uses no cuss words or profanity. He is just a good ole funny guy. You should look him up on Youtube. He is playing at the Shnitzer concert hall downtown Portland. I am very excited. Well the show will be starting gotta run!

Big Bummer!

2009-06-24T19:51:00.000-07:00

Well I haven't posted in a while. I thought I would update. I have not been able to run for 2 weeks now. I pulled muscles in my quads. I ran too hard too fast and now need to take it easy for a little longer however I have been swimming and riding the bike to keep up my physical endurance. I miss running so much I realize how much I enjoy it now that I cannot. I went to the doctor today she said I shouldn't have a problem running the marathon so that is great news, but I do have a race scheduled July 12 I probably will not be able to run. I am so bummed. Back to the swimming to be quite frank I SUCK at it. I don't have the technique I tried the whole breathing thing and flowing through the water I do not know how people do it, it is not easy. It is a great workout though Did you know swimming one mile equals the same as running 4 miles. Crazy huh? Anyways gotta run!! (did I just say that) not run but I gotta go! So you think you can dance is on Cant miss it! Take Care Y'all

Back in business

2009-06-11T07:17:00.001-07:00

I had a few days off of running over the weekend due to a very important event. Christian's graduation.
What an exciting time. Family came to visit. I got to see my sis and mom I miss them very much. We had so much fun celebrating. So after taking a few days off I am back to training. It actually is good for your body to have recovery time when I got back to running on Tuesday I felt great I ran 5 miles with no problems and had lots of energy. I will be running Nike campus today 4 miles. I am right on track with my training. I am looking forward to summer and the boys being out of school (4 more days) so that I can run earlier in the morning and also take them to the gym with me at our gym we have this great outdoor pool with lounge chairs it is like a retreat and the boys love it there. This school year seems so long we had days added because of all the snow days we had in winter. I am looking forward to no homework and that I don't have to make lunches every morning. Anyways I am babbling on and on. REMEMBER: Keep on moving on!

slow week

2009-06-03T22:27:00.000-07:00

It has been a slow week for running. My plan is to run Tue,wed,Thur,and long runs on Sat. Well with Christians graduation this weekend and family arriving I have not had time really. It has been an overwhelming week Cam got sick, I had to go to the eye Dr and she said I have 3 ulcers in my right eye which is pretty painful. So tomorrow I plan to get up and go run as soon as the kids get to school and then clean house, store and make Christians memory board for graduation. The memory board is a board where we decorate and add pictures from when he was a baby up to now it should be fun and bittersweet. I am very excited that he is becoming an adult but yet sad. I had Christian the August before my senior year. He attended my high school graduation at 11 months old so this is an emotional time for Bri and I. I can't believe he is graduating high school already. Where does the time go? For all of you out there with newborns or toddlers pick them up and coddle them like there is no tomorrow because it goes so fast. I was going through Christians baby pictures I just remember his little personality and how loving affectionate and sweet. I love my three sons. They are treasures from God I am so thankful God let me borrow them on this earth and trusted me to raise them. Thank You Jesus! Happy Graduation Son! Your time has come!

8 miles

2009-05-31T12:17:00.000-07:00

I ran today through forest park. I ran 8 miles. This is my 7th week training. 8 miles was a little harder than anticipated, although I accomplished it, I did have to take a walk break I know that is okay being I am a new runner but it is also a pride factor I feel that I should be able to run 8 with no problems my body begged to differ that is why it is important to listen to your body. What is great is that I am achieving goals each and every week and should be plenty ready to complete the 26.2 in October if I keep on doing what I am doing. I am very happy with my accomplishments each and every week. Just a little update I will be taking a rest today. Have a great day to All!

ICE

2009-05-28T07:17:00.000-07:00

Ice is my new companion. I tell this to you because once the running starts you start feeling aches and pains on places you didnt know existed. I have been reading alot of material on running, proper technique, stretching, attire, motivation and all sort of stuff. People actually take ice baths. I try to imagine what that would be like but oh my I dont want to go there it is hard enough to ice my hip for 15 minutes. Can you imagine and ICE BATH. I would rather suffer. The importance of ice is to reduce inflamation. It is only my 6th week I have a long way to go I am sure there is plenty more ice in my future. For now I will keep icing. Sunday I will be running 8 miles.. Bring it on!

I came in First!!

2009-05-26T06:26:00.000-07:00

We had a great weekend we went to a little rustic cabin in the woods in La Pine, Oregon. It is about a four hour drive from where we live. When we arrived, after driving on dirt road after dirt road in the forest, we came upon the little rustic cabin. When I say rustic I mean rustic. It did not have any running water the only water source was from the outside pump. It had a wood cook stove which was amazing and this little cabin overlooks the deshutes river. It was beautiful and great. I took a lot of pictures but our camera failed us (darn). We did a lot of fishing (cameron caught one). On Sunday we went to sunriver where I was competing in my first 5 mile race. Saturday night I had a hard time sleeping, I wanted to do well. We arrived at the Sunriver Resort Saturday morning at 7:30 am. Registration took place at 8:00 and the race was due to start at 9:00. I registered and received my number and a shirt. Being it was my first race I didnt know where to pin the number (you want to make sure it is in just the right spot). I was watching the racers arrive checking out my competition. I had butterflies. We had a prerace meeting at 8:45. They were going over our course and telling us to follow all the blue arrows. The course was amazing. around a golf course follow the river around the airport and back again. It was 75 degrees this day, the sky was blue, Snow capped Mt Bachelor off in the distance, what a beautiful sight. It was time to start. Brian, Cayden and Cameron were there to cheer me on. Here it goes they start. Take your mark, set, Go! I started off a little too fast but that was ok. I was on a little paved runway through the golf course, listening to the birds, taking in all the fresh air I come around the bend I see the river flowing by me, I see Bri and the boys in the car Yelling GO MOM I kept running keeping a good pace I felt my shin start tightening up I need to stop and stretch and tie my shoe. I kept going, I see a coyote, I start picking up my pace, there are a lot of folks on the trail riding bikes and running so I am not too frightened. I come around still along the river I see 3 fish jump in the river it was amazing I then come upon 4 deer on the course I am thanking God for all his beauty and what a gorgeous creation. I come upon the drink station I am so thirsty. I take a drink and the volunteer tells me only one mile and a half to go I yell YEAH!! I see the boys again in the car they were able to follow along on parts and they are yelling for me. I keep going I am feeling great my leg loosened up so it is no longer hurting I am enjoying the environment. I come around the airport a little plane is landing. People are passing me on bikes and saying "You are almost there" I see it the Finish Line in the distance I pick up the pace and start booking it to the finish line I see my family I am excited a few more feet to go, the people are cheering, there I go across the finish line arms up and all smiles... 49:44 is my time. That is a very good finish for my first race. 5 miles in 49 minutes and 44 seconds. I received a first place ribbon for my age group. I love the Race. It was amazing.

Sunriver Fun Run

2009-05-21T20:51:00.000-07:00

I am so excited. About what? You ask. Well we are going to stay in my friends cabin tomorrow down in La Pine in Central Oregon. We are thrilled her little cabin is so rustic it will feel just like camping. We are planning on having a very eventful time. Lava Caves, Paddling, Hiking, and fishing. Cameron is already packing, he just cant wait. The most exciting thing though for me is I am running a race on Sunday. The Sunriver Fun Run. It is a 5 mile race. I am confident I can do it. It is going to be a very fun weekend. Happy Memorial weekend to All! Did I mention Christian Graduates in 15 days (random thought).

Nike Campus

2009-05-17T16:36:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I ran at nike campus in Beaverton, Oregon. What a beautiful place the track is 2 miles around. I ran 3 times around which equals 6 miles I ran with my friend Janee who is a long distance runner. She was a great motivator and told me I was doing a real good job. I felt a little tired being that after that I had to go to work. I was exhausted last night. Looking forward to good night sleep, but that didnt happen because The weather here in Oregon has been in the 80's and well I guess my skin is not used to the sun anymore because I broke out in this crazy rash. I am miserable. I guess my sunbathing days are over. I have had a nice relaxing day today. Happy Sunday to you All.

Things I recommend for running

2009-05-14T19:20:00.000-07:00

Socks play an important part in running. The socks I recommend are smartwool PHD they are a wool on wool woven sock to wick more moisture, they have a blister free system built in to the sock they are great in cool or warm weather.. Also Shoes are the the most important being, I work at REI this has helped because they can be very spendy. I also recommend good insoles (Superfeet). Your feet need to be happy because they are what is going to move you Another thing I recommend for running is an IPOD, this is a necessity for me, music keeps me going. It definitely motivates me. Today I was able to run for 1 hour and 15 minutes and Saturday I will be running 6 miles at the nike campus. 6 miles is the longest I will run. I am very excited for the challenge. I am able to endure running longer and feel good doing it. People have told me that speed will come. I am not worried too much about finishing fast but just finishing at all. For now I am going to keep on running.

Running in Oregon

2009-05-13T12:38:00.000-07:00

Running in Oregon can sometimes be very different with the weather. I did two runs last week where it just poured rain. I was trail running when it started to rain. I actually enjoy running in the rain very much. Running in the rain is very liberating. I felt refreshed and cool. Something about running in the mud also (makes me feel like a kid all over again). After wards, all I wanted was a cup of hot coffee and some soup. That is exactly what I did. My girlfriends and I went to lunch ordered a cup of coffee and I had some hot chili. Nothing ever tasted so delicious. In the meantime we were drenched and looking forward to a nice hot shower. What a great day!

Mothers day!

2009-05-11T17:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went for a run at the track while Cayden had to do field work for his baseball team at the school. I ran for a full hour without stopping. It is getting easier every week that passes. Anyway, Cayden and his teammates lined up around the track and were clapping me on. It was so hilarious. He told me he was proud that I can run an hour without stopping and assured me his friends cannot even run for 5 minutes. I thought I would share. Its things like this that help us to continue on in the race. Thank You Cayden.

Happy Mothers Day!

2009-05-10T08:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Moms day to all you beautiful mothers Everywhere!

How does a Mother of 3 run a marathon?

2009-05-06T19:11:00.000-07:00

I am running a marathon (did I mention that?) I have 3 kids and a full time job. One thing that helps is that my kids are all in school. I work a retail job this also allows me to go to the gym before work being that I do not need to be there until 945 usually. Cameron is on the bus at 755 I am out the door at 8 I run 3 miles at the gym and then I get ready for work. On the days that I am off I will run a trail or I run the track while Cayden is at baseball practice. Today I was off and I ran with a friend and her boot camp class, we ran at Mt. Tabor in Portland Oregon (what a beautiful place). We had a blast. After that we went to a great little café in SE Portland. We ate a much needed breakfast, it was delicious. I am a little sore today and I am sure it will be worse tomorrow. Tomorrow I will be running forest park and I am looking forward to that. Having support from my family has really helped too. The boys are all supportive and that carries me along. I am going to continue putting one foot in front of the other. That’s all I have for now. Keep on running.

Run,Run and Run

2009-05-05T19:47:00.000-07:00

Do You not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. 1 Corinthians 9:24

I am in my fourth week of training. I feel great. I never thought running could be so much fun. June 1st will start my official marathon training right now I am preparing my body. I signed up for my first race July 12. Go Girl Trail run, it should be very exciting. Tomorrow I will be running with a friend from work and Thursday another girlfriend and I are going running. As for now, I am going to keep on running!

training

2009-04-29T07:09:00.001-07:00

I am now on my third week of pre-training. I am able to run a full hour without stopping (that is at a slow pace). Running feels really great. It definitely clears the mind. I signed up for my first race for July 12th, Go Girl trail run it is a 6 miler. I am so excited. I have a lot of friends rallying around me so that keeps me motivated. I am on the run. Post more later

What's new with me!

2009-04-24T12:25:00.000-07:00

Well It has been such a long time since blogging last. What is new with Me? Well April 9th Brian and I had our 16th wedding anniversary. We had a great time, had dinner at PF Changs and then went to Barnes and Noble for some coffee and good reads. I came across a beginners runner magazine (I have always been inspired to run a marathon). I bought the magazine and became really inspired. Guess What? I will be running Portland Marathon on October 4, 2009. I have started training to train (if that makes sense) My goal is to lose 10 pounds before June 1st. June 1st I begin training. I will be running two 10k races prior to the marathon (God Willing). All Prayers appreciated! I will be posting throughout my training to let you all know how its going. I will be seeing the finish line!

Baseball Season in Tack

2009-02-23T06:52:00.000-08:00

Today is the day for the next few months where we get busy, busy,busy. Today is the first day of baseball for Christian. It is his last year, unless by God's will he will be able to play at Community College. Only four more months of high school for him. I have been looking at baby pictures of him, boy he has grown fast. Where has the time gone? I look forward to the next few months. Bring on Baseball season. It is my favorite time. I love to watch my boys play sports.

Black bean and Egg Burrito

2009-02-02T08:39:00.000-08:00

I love to cook. I have some great recipes that I would like to share I am going to be posting them on my blog once in a while. Here is one that I think you will love. It is very easy inexpensive and quick. You will need:
1 can black beans Drained and rinsed
1 red bell pepper
1 medium onion
2 cloves of garlic
cooking spray
6 eggs (scrambled)
mexican cheese blend (grated)
burrito size tortillas

Directions
saute pepper,onion, and garlic in pan with spray until soft (4 minutes)
add beans, season with salt and pepper (substitute salt w/mrs. dash if you choose)
cook 3 minutes
layer tortilla with cheese, bean mixture and eggs. Roll up and enjoy! Delicious!
I would have a photo but I ate it too fast!

calling in sick

2009-01-23T12:30:00.000-08:00

Today I had to call in sick not for me being sick but Cameron. I dont know about you but I hate calling in sick.It makes me feel that I am not very reliable. This guilt comes over me I am not sure why because really, will they fire me for having an ill child? I dont think so and If that happens I need to remember it is the will of God.It is hard when you work outside of the home and you are responsible for more people then yourself. When you have a boss that does not have children this becomes very difficult because they are not sensitive to the fact that someone needs to nurture a sick child. I have a new understanding of what moms go through battling the guilt of when to call in or not. So today while at home I am baking cookies catching up on laundry and doing housework (well, kind of).I pray that Cameron will feel better and I will enjoy the rest of my day. And remember The Good Lord is in control of ALL things! Jen

New photos

2008-12-19T08:03:00.000-08:00

I know I have posted alot of new blogs. I wanted to post photos of Christian it is very rare when we can take pictures of him because he is never around it seems. But here are some of him and cameron playing around. It is fun to see being that they are so far apart in ages They get along so well.

2008-12-19T07:42:00.000-08:00

Cameron made a hut in the backyard. He loves to create things.Cameron getting his first soccer trophy at skate world. Snow day 2008 It is so beautiful watching it fall. I love the snow. Cayden choir concert. He is in choir this year and loves it. Brian making a fire. I love to have a fire in the fireplace. Again Where's Christian? I will post photos of him soon. LOL

random photos

2008-12-19T07:39:00.000-08:00

Here are some random photos.

Hello All!

2008-12-19T07:22:00.000-08:00

I have not posted a blog in so long. I even have been tagged Im not sure what that means but it looks fun. I am not very computer literate it is not my specialty. I dont know how to link to other people. I will write 7 random things about myself but then I am not sure how to send it off to others anyway here goes.
1. I can never sleep on christmas eve. I have been this way since I was young, I get so excited I cant sleep.
2. I love to wake up at the crack of dawn and read and drink my coffee before anyone wakes up.
3. I am addicted to starbucks and coffee in general.
4. I have not had my natural hair color since high school. I love to change it all the time.
5. I have to talk to my sis on the phone everyday or every other. We are really close when we were little I hated for her to leave to go to friends I always had to go.This drove her nuts.(sorry sis)
6. One I am not proud of I repeated 8th grade.I never cared for school. Since kindergarten. I dreaded school EVERY DAY.
7. Someday I want to backpack through Europe. After I retire Brian and I want to be campground hosts at all the national parks.

two other kids

2008-10-25T15:36:00.000-07:00

Its so funny reading past blogs I have written. You would think I only Have one child. I write of Cameron a lot. I think the reason for this is Cayden and Christian are always off doing things. It seems sometimes Cameron is the only one. Last night Cayden went with friends to a football game and Christian was at a football game also. Brian, Cam and I went to dinner It felt so weird for it to be just the three of us. I am sure this is gonna continue on. Christian is talking about where he wants to go to college and he wants to get a place with a friend, that is gonna be so hard. I am sure he will be home for dinner about five nights a week being he does'nt know how to cook and will be a broke college student, although we may be broke too, being we have to pay for college. Anyone want to have us for dinner? Oh and did I mention Cayden is embarrassed of me. Funny story I took him to school to go to the book fair and he told me not to get out of the car I said "are you embarrassed of your mother?" He replied "Yes I am!"
Well the time has come. Good ole seventh grade. Well I guess I cant blame him I probably would have tripped getting out of the car or something. Anyways I am rambling. Thanks for rambling.

volunteer

2008-10-22T20:53:00.000-07:00

Today I had the opportunity to volunteer in Cameron's class. Of course he remained on his best behavior while I was there I was very proud. I hope I can continue to do this on a weekly basis being he has had some challenges so far in 1st grade. I Know he will continue to do well. Although He came home today and confessed he said a Bad Word! Apparently no one heard He claims he said it under his breath. I told him it is not appropriate to say bad words, it is disrespectful and the Lord doesnt like it. Next time say Shishkabob or Sugar (now you know what word he said it starts with sh) Oh no boy do I have trouble on my hands. We will just nib this is the bud.

Blogging

2008-10-13T07:05:00.000-07:00

Blogging is a very interesting thing. I realized sometime I write just what is on my mind although this can be very dangerous and quick to hurt someones feelings. Looking back I hope that this blog has never offended anyone. It is interesting because just as your tongue can be very sharp also your mind and what our thoughts are and how they come out on paper. I am so thankful and grateful to God that his thoughts are not our thoughts. Cameron is learning about forgiveness in Sunday school and I realized this is a lesson that we all need daily. While reading my bible this morning I came across this verse "We will walk in the name of the Lord our God forever and ever." Micah 4:5
Amen what a hope we have in our Lord. Everything about this world will crumble around us but with God we stand firm. Thank you Lord for saving me!

Tip of the day

2008-10-12T20:01:00.000-07:00

As you know we all get so busy and housework becomes daunting. It is hard to stay on task. I did something tonight and thought I would share although, Im sure all of you have a system that works I found this worked well not even one person complained. I had each child put away 5 dishes and Cameron put away the silverware it was awesome.

Business Man

2008-10-09T20:00:00.000-07:00

Cameron is going to be a business man. He always wants to make a buck. Brian asked if he could get 2$ from his piggy bank. Cameron said yes but only if he pays him back 4$. He also just asked me if he could sell pencils at school. Anyone want to buy some pencils? You could probably negotiate the price!

Biggest Loser

2008-10-07T21:15:00.000-07:00

I love the Biggest Loser show. It totally inspires me, Although I am not obese I truly have a heart for folks that are. The people on the show work so hard and are away from their families just to better their lives. God Bless them. It makes me just cry. I have a passion for nutrition and exercise although I do not work out everyday It is always on my mind to eat better and to exercise more. I love the way it makes me feel to work up a sweat. Here's to the biggest Loser. May the best win!

busy lives

2008-10-06T17:21:00.000-07:00

I have not blogged in so long. I am such a busy person right now. I thrive on business for whatever reason I love to be on the go all the time. I think it is ADD. Right now we have soccer, gymnastics, and Cayden and Christian are both on a fall baseball league. Here are some pics of cam soccer. It is so fun to watch 6 and 7 year olds on the field chasing the ball I get a kick out of it. He is loving it too. This is a random blog but wanted to update what it is we are up to. Well time to fix supper Hello everyone!

frustrated

2008-09-14T18:26:00.000-07:00

I do not know if anyone has noticed but groceries are out of the roof. I went to the store this afternoon, I am one who clips coupons, plans my meals and adds as I go through the store. I only do this because I have a definite budget I need to stick with as I am sure a lot of people do. Raising 3 boys I am sure does not help matters, but to not even get out of the store under 200.00 is ridiculous. I am so frustrated that a jar of spaghetti sauce is 3.19 I used to spend 1.52 on the same jar. What is happening in our world that middle class families cannot even barely get by anymore. I do not know how people raise families during these times to have to worry about the food that we spend and forget healthy that is not an option, Produce alone is a whole paycheck. I am so mad by the whole thing. If someone has any suggestions on how to save at the store please leave a comment. Thanks for reading my blog.

Football season

2008-09-08T10:14:00.000-07:00

I live with four boys. These four boys all love sports It doesn't matter what it is Football, Baseball, basketball, Hockey. If it is a competition it is on. I learned to love sports myself Football is my favorite. I love Sundays just relaxing with some snacks and watching a game with my boys. Here's to Football Season.

Happy Birthday Brian!

2008-08-31T14:12:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to you! We have been together most of our lives and now to be 34 years old. The time has flown past. We are getting old. Have a great day Brian! We will be enjoying dinner at our favorite restaurant RED ROBIN!

School starting soon!

2008-08-28T11:12:00.000-07:00

Okay! Well there is five more sleeps until school starts! Very bittersweet about the whole thing! my children need the routine back, also if they are together one more day I may not have three children anymore. The food in the house may last a little more than a day. And they are all in school full day which means when I have a day off during the week, I will have a full day to myself AMEN! This also means Homework, busy schedules, Staying on task every minute of every day. AAHH life with children! Welcome back to school!

grocery shopping

2008-08-12T07:09:00.000-07:00

Coming back from vacation Knowing I have to go back to work and in desperate need of groceries being the boys are home with not any food and cannot find the time to go to the store I heard about ordering groceries online but have never tried it. This would be the time. I placed an order with New Seasons you can either have them delivered or pick up. I ordered for pickup. This is awesome. You order online, you can choose a recipe and then add items to your cart. Pay,and put time of pickup. You then call to say you are on your way and they meet you in the parking lot with groceries in tow. This is my kind of Shopping! I will be doing this more often. It costs 4.95 totally worth it!

vacation pics

2008-08-11T12:48:00.000-07:00

we had a great time! very eventful. The beach, disneyland, Angel baseball game, Los Osos, CA to see my family and to celebrate my mom 60th Birthday!

2008-08-11T12:41:00.000-07:00

Yippeeee!

2008-07-26T09:48:00.000-07:00

Im on vacation! Im on Vacation! Yes it finally arrived. We are heading to Vegas tonight Tomorrow we will see Beatles love Cirque de Soleil I cannot wait! We are going to see our family in Cali! Heres to great times to be had! Peace Out!

Weekend adventure

2008-07-14T06:20:00.001-07:00

I just got back from the greatest weekend. I met my in laws down in gold beach, oregon we rode jerry's jet boats excursion. Unfortunatley Brian did'nt get to go with us He has been working crazy hours so he had to work the whole weekend so really it wasn't the same without him. But we still had a great time. We stayed at the Gold Beach inn right on the ocean it is just another beautiful place in the great Northwest. We ate at great restaurants and did some visiting. It was a great time I will soon be posting some pics. I have the best Mother and Father in law in the world. I am so blessed to have them in my life. They take the kids home with them for part of the summer. The kids get so spoiled and just love spending time with their grandpa and grandma. We will be on our vacation in exactly two weeks I cannot wait!

vacation

2008-07-04T07:32:00.000-07:00

7 days until Cayden and Cam leave to Grandmas and 22 days until we leave for our very needed vacation. Bri and I will be first stopping in Vegas And then flying to Cali to spend time with family and to visit disneyland. My family lives all over the state of California so we will be spending time all over. I miss my family alot. My sis and I are very close we talk every morning on the phone. She has two kids who I miss terribly. Christian will be bringing a friend this year which will be great for him. He chose not to go to grandmas this year ( I think he is regretting it a little this year) he wont admit it! He and a friend will be flying together. I cant wait to go on Vacation!

Summer

2008-06-28T08:07:00.000-07:00

Summer finally came in Oregon. It is so beautiful. I enjoy this time of year although I love seasons in all. In California I cant say that I ever experienced true seasons. In Oregon all seasons exist. I really love the fall the leaves change the weather is gorgeous and I love the winter too! I do not mind the cold or the rain. But when it rains it surely pours and does not stop. But I was ready for summer to arrive FO SHO! I love to soak up the sun ,it is wonderful. I know come September I will be ready for the fall. Another reason why God is so good. Because He knows we need change in our lives so he gave us seasons. I know I am rambling on. So enjoy the season of barbecues, picnics, garage sales (did I say garage sales), swimming (my fav), mowing the lawn (did I say that too!) You know all the things that you can enjoy outside. Have a Fabulous summer!

What a night!

2008-06-24T17:29:00.000-07:00

I got rid of my kids for the night and didnt even try! How awesome is that? It is great to have family in town. It is a break for us ,and our family just enjoys spending time with the kids and the boys enjoy spending time with their aunts and uncles. I just thought I would share Go to go now, we are heading out on a date!

Abba Zabba

2008-06-19T06:34:00.000-07:00

Abba Zabba = a delicious peanut butter filled taffy. A delightful candy! I love Abba Zabba's they are my favorite candy bar. Brian brought one home for me last night. If you haven't tried one give it a whirl.

massage

2008-06-13T19:24:00.000-07:00

Cameron loves to give massages its so funny because his little hands wrap around your shoulders and he squeezes. He said to me "Mom, do you know what massages do to your bones?" I said no he said they make them soft which makes them feel good. I wish they stayed little. Life is so entertaining with little ones around. I got to go, Ive got to get back to the massage therapist.

Graduation day!

2008-06-10T06:49:00.000-07:00

Today is huge! The Big Kindergarten graduation ceremony. Yep thats right I pronounce Cameron Thomas Randall is promoting to first grade! Yippee! It is such a funny time advancing from kindergarten only going a couple days a week. (well thats how they do it here in Oregon) to now everyday all day in first grade. Man the years fly by. It is also a big day for Cayden tomorrow he will be moving forward to middle school (scary). Talk about a scary time this is when you start to lose touch a little bit the independence starts to really kick in you lose the relationship with the teacher because they now have multiple teachers and you really gotta watch the friends thing. The teachers expect them to be responsible which is good but sometimes a challenge also. They now are responsible to write all their homework NO More Packets or homework sheets. I think he will do great! Christian will be a senior next year now when that graduation happens you better turn on youtube you will see me doing some back hand springs for sure. Christian always had a little harder time, He gets by, but he has to try a little harder (another great trait from the mama). Anyways another school year is coming to a close, I look forward to a great summer but I am sure when august comes I will be more than ready to send them back to school. Thanks for reading.

Amazing

2008-06-08T20:33:00.000-07:00

This brought tears to my eyes.

Here is my cardboard testimony. What is yours?

summer

2008-06-02T07:16:00.000-07:00

I do not know about anyone else but I cannot wait for summer to arrive. I am looking forward to the boys getting out of school This means not anymore homework for awhile and not waking up at the crack of dawn, or making lunches every morning just good old relaxing fun. We will be taking vacation to see our folks in Cali and disneyland some camping trips. and I look forward to the Change in weather. This has been the longest rainy season in Oregon since we have lived here. It is hard to wake up in the morning when the sky is so dreary. It is funny the sunshine really does put a spring in your step. When the sun comes up I am ready to get on with the day but when it is dreary it is hard to get motivated. So come on sunshine! Just NINE more days of school left! Here is to a happy summer. Thank you for reading my blah blah blah!

Gods perfect plan

2008-05-26T22:14:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah 29: 11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

I have been praying about the plan God has for me. Tonight while doing my devotion this happened to be the verse God gave to me (incredible) It is amazing how God speaks to us through his word. He says wait on him, continue to live life, but to seek him and his plan while waiting and he will answer in his time. God has assured me to continue with my idea and he will give me the resources. He put something on my heart a few months ago in regards to my future I just do not know how to grab a hold of it just yet. I think I am getting closer. I know I am rambling but this is a very exciting time and I wanted to share Gods great word. and to let you know He does have the perfect plan.

sunny day

2008-05-17T08:58:00.000-07:00

Here in Oregon we take advantage when it is nice and sunny. Cayden and Cameron were out of school on friday we had a great day at the park. We had a picnic, Cam rode his bike, and Cayden played tennis with a friend what a great day!

sunny

2008-05-16T06:52:00.001-07:00

Its another sunny day in Oregon! Wooooooo Hooooooo

work smork

2008-05-13T06:29:00.000-07:00

I have to go back to work today after having four days off. EXCRUCIATING. I have such mixed emotions about work some days I enjoy it some days I want to be home. Being that I work every weekend it makes it even harder because the family is home on the weekends. When I get one off you better believe We take FULL advantage of it. Housework out the door. Enough rumbling about that. This is pretty randim but as a busy mom I find it hard to do a devotion every day I try to wake very early before the kids so that I could have quiet time with the lord. I found two great books to help me with that I highly recommend them. The Busy Moms devotional author Lisa T. Bergren, and The Busy Moms guide to wisdom both excellent. I love to journal and these books are great for that. I know I am rambling just wanted to add some thoughts today. Have a great day all time to get the kids up and started with their day.

picture

2008-05-11T09:22:00.000-07:00

Im still learning how to add a picture. bare with me ( is that spelled correctly?)

dog mountain

2008-05-11T09:17:00.000-07:00

two posts in one day WOW! Yesterday Brian and I took a hike up to dog mountain. This hike is invigorating 3.4 miles straight up. It was very difficult but we accomplished it. The boys chose not to go (it was in their best interest). I love Oregon for all reasons but it is so great when we are surrounded with such beauty it truly is the greatest place to live. Thank You Lord for bringing us here. WE MADE IT TO THE TOP!

Happy Mothers day

2008-05-11T07:59:00.000-07:00

Happy Mothers day to all the moms. I woke to the smell of something delicious and little whispers. Here come Cayden and Cameron (christian is 16 at a friends and not interested) its okay though. Cayden and Cam walk in with all this delicious food pancakes eggs and toast. They scream happy mothers day what a great surprise. I thank the Lord for choosing me to be the mother of these wonderful human beings, It is truly a great responsibility to be a mother and the most wonderful blessing.

Juno

2008-04-23T06:50:00.000-07:00

If you havent seen Juno I highly suggest it. I fell in love with the movie. It hit close to home. I could totally relate. I was pregnant throughout my junior year of high school what she goes through with her family so funny. I wouldnt recommend to get pregnant at an early age it is very difficult. I am glad to see that she chose the right decision in adoption. I chose to have my baby who I could not imagine being without. Its refreshing to see a light hearted movie on a subject so serious and the outcome she chose I hope parents who have daughters that may be in the situation understand it is not the end of the world and encourage adoption there a many families that struggle to have babies. It is a tragedy turned to a blessing. That is my story and I am sticking to it.

ramble ramble ramble

2008-04-22T07:04:00.000-07:00

just having an ordinary morning sipping coffee the kids are gettting ready for school and I will go to work later. I have a list of all the things that need to get done but choose to blog instead. I will get to the list later. I am going to enjoy my time the boys will be off to school soon and I will sit here in peace and quiet. I asked cameron to get his backpack, and I asked if he has money in his lunch account at school. He said " Yep I dont know how it happens all this money appears I just go up and enter my number and pop there is all this money It must be God". ( I write a check,it goes to the account) Its great ,their faith!

surprise party

2008-04-18T11:56:00.000-07:00

Okay so I come home from work on Thursday evening at 930 and to my surprise I find flowers from the tree in the front yard, all over the living room floor in a pattern that was very carefully thought out. I said "Gee who made this great contraption?" Brian replied Cameron wants to see you. I go in his room he is fast asleep I will just see him in the morning. Friday morning he said "surprise this is a birthday surprise for you ,I thought you would like another birthday". His sweet little heart. Okay does anyone want to have a party and stay for the cleanup? Jennifer

Scary

2008-04-04T07:47:00.000-07:00

Everybody beware christian is on the road by himself. I am so worried. This is the hardest Part I have experienced of motherhood. Im not sure if I am the only one. I guess they have to grow, but I am not ready to let go God give me strength. All prayers welcome.

Camerons funny stories

2008-03-26T08:33:00.000-07:00

So Today is March 26. Cameron always has something so random to say. He asked if Today is March 15. I said no but what happens on March 15. He said it is forests birthday ( our dog). Where in the world did he come up with that. His birthday is actually in September for some reason today he really loves our dog and thinks it should be his birthday so he decides he will feed him (never feeds the dog) Says We have the bestest dog ever. Hilarious! He keeps me laughing.

second time blogging

2008-02-09T17:29:00.000-08:00

This is now my second blog. How exciting. Cameron is losing now his 2nd tooth. It is just amazing how quickly they grow. My brother and sister in law and niece are in town what a blessing. My little niece Madison is just a doll just one of the boys, she definitley holds her own around them. Cameron is crying and she is comforting him a little mommy. Just though I would post a note Blessed to all. Jen

first time blogging

2008-01-26T21:19:00.000-08:00

Hi all! This is my very first blog post.