Thanks Tank Thursday-Fall

Every Autumn I look around at the beauty of this world we live on and that God created for us. I see all the changes that are taking place in preparation for the long cold winter. The leaves are changing and falling, the birds are flying south, animals are squirreling away their food, Mums, Pansies and pumpkins can be seen everywhere and the weather is getting cooler. We are spending more time outside than we have been during the hot weather of summer. The kids are enjoying being able to sit on the deck to read and do their homework. They are also looking forward to the holidays, talk has turned to what to be for Halloween, what we are eating and who is coming for Thanksgiving and the joys and celebrations of Christmas. We are also enjoying football season, especially Gabe and Matt who seem to be glued to the t.v. on Saturdays and Sundays. This weekend we will be attending MTSU's Homecoming festivities. The kids had a blast watching the parade, playing with the other kids and enjoying the activities that MTSU provided. These simple but pleasant changes and happenings are what I am thankful for this week. I hope that you are able to enjoy all that fall has to offer.

Thanks Tank Thursday

I am thankful. I am thankful for...

* My husband who cleared his schedule so that I could go stay with my mom while she was in the hospital. He did this without me asking him to, just did it on his own. I am so thankful that he was so kind a considerate to do this.

* I am thankful that my mom is home from the hospital and is doing well. She seems in good spirits. I am so thankful that she is such a strong and positive woman.

* I am thankful for my children with their love and laughter.

* I am thankful for the cooler weather that we are getting, even if it is just in the evenings. I love the cooler weather.

* I am thankful for my sewing classes. I have begun to sew more lately and it's due to being able to take more sewing classes. It's so much fun getting back into them. I am even smocking dresses for the girls for Christmas.

* I am thankful for cooking. Today I have been making Banana Bread and am hoping to make some apple pies today as well. I love being able to cook special treats and love the smell of cooking bread.

* I am thankful for music. Nothing makes my day brighter than some good music whether it's from my I-Pod or from the radio.

* I am thankful for exercise. Nothing makes me feel better than so exercise. I love the Active for Wii.

* I am thankful for coffee. I look forward to my cup(s) every morning.

This is such a good practice for me. It makes me focus on the many positive things that are happening in my life. I hope that you take the time to be reflective of the many blessings you have. Take care.

Thanks Tank Thursday- A/C and Ollie

This week while dealing with annoying and painful issues I started thinking about what I have to be thankful for instead of dwelling on the negatives of each of these situations. It has brought me a little more peace to deal with the loss of both our a/c and of our beloved Ollie. I will do a main post of Ollie later. But here are my thoughts.

No A/C- This week our a/c has quit working once again. This is going to be the 6th time an a/c tech. has been to our house since May. While dealing with this I started thinking about how lucky I really am to have a nice home, food to eat, clothes to wear and a cozy bed to sleep in and also be able to afford a/c. I often take these comforts for granted. It could be a whole lot worse and for many people it is. So as I wait for the tech to return my call I am trying to remember that politness will recieve a better outcome. So as we cirrculate the air in our house with fans to stay cooler I will remember to be thankful. Oh, and it is suppose to be near 100 degrees today.

Ollie our cat is gone- Ollie went missing last week. We looked for him that first night but weren't really worried about him as he likes to hang out with the neighbors. The next day when he didn't come home we started asking around to see if anyone had seen him. No one has. While hope and praying for him to come home I am also being thankful that we were able to enjoy such a wonderful loving cat. Our hope is that he is safe wherever he is and that someone will see our signs and call us.

Have a great week!

Thanks Tank Thursday

Focusing on the things I am thankful for can be beneficial to not just me but my whole family. I have found that when I look for all the things I can be thankful for and start my list early in the week I have a much better week. And if as the saying goes, "If momma ain't happy then no body's happy." Meaning that if I have a good week then everyone else does too. Though I do try to keep my mood in check on those bad days. It's also helpful to see in writing everything I have to be thankful for. Even if your week is just one of those that you want to hurry up and go away take a few minutes to focus on what good is happening in your life or even the life of friends and family. After all our family is a reflection of us as well since we are the ones helping to raise them. And our friends triumphs can be springs for us to notice some of the same things happening in our lives. So anyway, here are the things that I am thankful for this week.



1. One Year Bible- Though I did not start reading this until the beginning of February I am really enjoying it. I have always wanted to read my way through the Bible but have never been able to stick with it. So far I am remembering to read it every single night. And because it is divided into days it is much more manageable for me. You read a part of the Old Testament, the New Testament, a Psalm and a Proverb.



2. Enthusiasm- I have enjoyed watching the kids enthusiasm with basketball. They look forward to both the practices and games. They put their hearts into the whole sport. It's also been fun watching them as they play and work together on their skills in the backyard. Matt and I have even gotten involved with them.



3. Sewing- I am so thankful that Matt bought me a sewing machine for my birthday several years ago. This hobby has given me and the people I have made things for lots of enjoyment and happiness, especially my girls. I am looking forward to getting some pjs made for Gabe. He always wants something made by me but there are so few things I can make that he would be interested in wearing. But pjs are something that is easy to make and can be made out of pretty much any fabric.



4. Spring like Days: This weekend we had beautiful weather. The kids really enjoyed spending their time out side in the spring like weather with blue skies and sunshine. Matt and I both said, though we enjoyed our company, that it was too bad we had company coming because we would have used the beautiful weather to get the garage cleaned out and organized. Something that we have been wanting to do since we moved into our house.



5. Coffee- I love my coffee. Unfortunately, I would drink the stuff all day long. But it's nice sitting back after dropping the kids off at school and Elizabeth is playing peacefully and enjoying that hot steaming cup of coffee. It's also nice after the kids are in bed enjoying a nice steaming cup of decaf. This is something that Matt and I do often in the evenings.



6. Exercise- WOW! I can't believe that I am saying this one. , because I do not enjoy exercising but, I am so thankful for exercise. I am loving the way I am feeling with just a few days of moving my body everyday. It has really helped me to get better sleep and to help me feel good about myself and what I am doing.



7. Sunshine- I am so thankful for sunshine. It makes me feel good and boy do I look forward to warmer weather days. One of the reasons we bought our house was for the amount of sunlight our windows let in. I get such a joyful feeling when I get up in the mornings and see the sunshine just waiting to pour in those windows.


8. Matt- Matt has had a busy couple of weeks with work. It is crunch time on several projects that are causing him to work late and even to bring work home from the office. I am so thankful to have a husband who works so hard for his family and then spend his weekends with us doing fun things. I am truly thankful that GOD has put such a wonderful man in my life who also happens to be my best friend.

9. Pictures- I am thankful for pictures. I love to take them, blog them and just look through them. I can't imagine life without being able to see all the memories we are making. It's amazing how quickly the kids change and grow.

Have a great rest of the week. I hope all of you are able to find things to be thankful for this week. And I hope you have a great weekend.

Things are getting back to normal around here, I think, I hope. I am feeling much better since my surgery. Yesterday, I even took the girls to the park and ran some errands, all without those wonderful pain pills or Advil, so I know I am feeling better. Gabe will be out of school next week and I am looking forward to a summer of the pool, park, library, homegrown activities, and play dates. There are so many things to be thankful for in my life so I am going to fill up the thanks tank. This has been a wonderful exercise for me because it really makes me think about the good things happening in my life. So here's my list for this week.

1. The surgery and recovery went and are going well.
2. The sunshine we've been having around here.
3. Kids laughing and playing outside.
4. Bubbles.
5. Swimming in the pool.
6. Matt being home and not having class.
7. Matt coming back from Nashville tonight.
8. Shopping, even if it is for Gabe. He was so excited about the new Clone Trooper t-shirt.
9. School ending for the summer.
10. A wonderful caring husband. Matt did a great job of taking care of me and the kids while I was recovering.
11. Not having to cook or clean. It was a nice break to not have to cook or clean, while I was recovering. I just wish I had been able to enjoy it a little more.
12. Great MOPS friends who brought us food, called, sent emails, and mailed cards.
13. Flowers. I received some beautiful flowers from the preschool after my surgery.
14. Wonderful preschool teachers.
15. Abby's preschool teacher who watched the girls for us while I had surgery. It was great to know that they were so well cared for.
16. Water table fun.
17. Riding bikes.
18. Painting the girls' toenails.

I hope that you take a little time to reflect on what makes you happy. And there are lots of little things and big everyday no matter what. Have a great weekend.

Thanks Tank Thursday

Every week I start this wondering what I am going to write and as I write I think of more and more things that I have to be thankful for. I am so glad that I joined my blogging friend in this exercise. I hope that you sit down and take a moment to be thankful with me.

Bible Study: In the new year I took a leap and joined a Bible study at the church where my girls attend preschool. I have enjoyed this study very much and am getting so much out of it. I am so glad that I decided to do this study. Btw, it's the Beth Moore Fruit of the Spirit Study.

The little moments: The other night as I was washing dishes and listening to the kids fight over telling Matt about their day or what they were doing that moment I realized that I will one day miss the fighting, constant chatter, and laughter. I has been stressed but as I came to this realization I smiled and relaxed. I will one day miss all these little things when my children are grown. So, in the mean time I will try to enjoy all the moments that they bring to my life.

Birthday Excitement: A week from tomorrow Abby will be turning 5. I can't believe it has been five years all ready. For her it seems like forever. She has been asking for months if her birthday is tomorrow. Now with it just a week away it seems like her excitement is unbearable.

Kindergarten: Along with Abby's 5th birthday comes Kindergarten. Registration starts on Monday and Abby couldn't be happier. Now I just have to get her to understand that she has to wait until August before Kindergarten starts.

Swimming Lessons: Both of the older kids started swimming lessons last week. And they are loving it. I was surprised at how much both kids had forgotten from last summer. I am really glad that we decided to do lessons now so that when we open the pool in a couple of months the kids will be ready for swimming.

Crafts: With Abby always wanting to make something I have been more diligent in getting out all those craft supplies lately. We have made window clings, flowers, drawings, books and more in the past couple of weeks. And Abby is loving every minute of it. This weekend I plan on Gabriel making his bird feeders and frame for boy scouts. I am thankful that they are enjoying activities that require more than watching tv does.

Cooking: I've been trying to include one of the kids in cooking dinner at night. It could be as simple as dumping cans into the crock pot or cracking an egg but they seem to be enjoying it.

Hot Tea: I know I've said this before bu I love my hot tea at night. It seems to relax me and be the perfect end to my day. It's kinda like my clue that I am home for the evening with my family.

Pictures: I am thankful for all the wonderful pictures I have of my family and friends. As I have begun working on this years Photobook I have realized that we have shared so many wonderful times together. And it's wonderful to look back and see the changes in the kids. I love pictures.

Thanks Tank Thursday

We've had quite acouple of weeks, with all the snow and cold we had come our way. The kids enjoyed the break but I think they were as ready to get back in school as I was to have them go. I have so many things to be thankful for this week so I am going to start filling up the tank.


1. Sunny Days: Today we are full of sun shiny skies. And boy are they a beautiful blue. Cloudy days really do affect my mood so I am really glad to see the sun today.

2. The Promise of Warmer Weather: With our lows in the single digits and on some occasions like last night in the negatives, I am so glad to see the promise of warmer weather this weekend and into next week.

(This was the snowfall we got Tuesday morning on top of the 11 inches that was still there. We had a 2 hour delay on Monday and Wednesday.)
3. Taking Control: I am thankful that I have taken control of areas of my life I let slide. I feel more confident and happier because I have.

4. Money Matters: I am a shopaholic. Plain and simple. Which has caused us some grief. This is one area where that I have taken control over. And I am doing quite well. Which Matt has been very happy to see.

5. Clean Sheets: I hate washing a folding sheets. I really, really do. But for the past two weeks we have had clean sheets on every bed in the house. I love sliding into a bed with clean sheets. Now if only I can keep up with some of my other household chores.

6. 10 more weeks: Matt only has 10 more weeks before he graduates with his MBA. I am so proud of all the hard work he has done and is currently still doing. I will be counting down the weeks with him. ONLY 10 MORE MATT!!! Matt Graduates On May 10th!!!

7. Clean Kitchen Floors: This week I discovered that my kitchen tile grout is not a dark brown but a light tan. Which means is was dirty, I mean very dirty. How did I discover this you ask? Well, one of the kids spilled some smoothie and it splattered and I missed some spots. Which dried and crusted and took a ton of work to get up. As I did the major clean up I realized that the grout was changing colors. So I scrubbed and scrubbed the grout on the kitchen floor until it was clean. Anyway, I now have a very clean kitchen floor. One that at this moment I would not hesitate to say you could eat off of, but only if you really wanted to. :)

("Dark brown grout")

("Light Tan Grout")
8. No TV During the Week: I have implemented a no tv or games policy during the week, mainly school nights. I did this because so often they were entertained and then I would forget how long they had been watching or playing. It has been such a nice change of pace. Gabriel is spending hours in his room setting his toys up for battles. Abby and Elizabeth are playing dress up and babies. And then there are times that they play together, all three of them. I have loved watching their imaginations grow. Though I do have some educational games they can play on the computer.

9. Wii Fit: I have never been a video game junkie but Wii Fit has created one in me. I have been on the Wii almost everyday. It's fun and best of all I have managed to 1 up Matt on several of the games. And I feel like I am doing something a little more healthy for myself than sitting in front of the tv.

10. Music: I love music and it can really help lighten my mood. I have been playing more music in the house since establishing the no tv rule. The kids have enjoyed dancing to it. Yesterday, we even had a dance party and played freeze. We had a lot of fun.

Thanks Tank Thursday

Thanks to Jane Anne over at Gravity of Motion I started doing a Thursday Thanks Tank. I use this time to reflect on all the things I have to be thankful for. It has been a tremendously helpful tool for me to realize all the good things in life. Right now with today's economy and job outlook it is especially rewarding and helps me focus more on the good than the bad. I hope that you enjoy this post and it helps to remind you of he good things in your life and that you take the time to be thankful. Thanks for stopping by.

1. Snow Days: I have been wanting snow all winter long. My kids have been wanting snow all winter long. On Tuesday night we finally got the snow we had been wishing for. We got almost 11 inches of the white stuff and have had so much fun playing in it.

2. Family Time: With the whole family being snowed in we have had a lot of family time. Though today I would love to get out of the house I have enjoyed spending time with my kids and not "needing" to go somewhere for errands or activities.

3. Siblings Playing Together: I have enjoyed watching the kids play and have fun with each other. There has been a minimal amount of fighting taking in the consideration that the kids have been with each other for 24/7 for three days now.

4. Laughter: I have loved listening to the laughter in the house the past couple of days. Matt has even joined in the fun when his work has allowed.

5. Matt and the kids: I was so glad that Matt was able to take some time yesterday to play with the kids. He helped the kids build a snow tunnel and then sledded with them down the driveway. It has been so much fun seeing Matt relax just a little in the past couple of days.

6. Helpful Matt: Matt has been tremendously helpful this week. He has been taking it upon himself to help with dinner and to pick up more. He even put the kids to bed last night since my knee has been bothering me. (I may be going to the doctor soon about that one.)

7. Hot Chocolate: The kids have really been enjoying their hot chocolate when they come in from outside. I'm beginning to think that they go out and come in so often because they want the hot chocolate with marshmallows, and not because they are cold.

8. My recent changes: I have been changing a lot of habits lately. I have been feeling more in control of my habits as of late and it is making me feel more confident and powerful.

9. Finding Comfort: I have found a good routine for myself and it has made me more comfortable with the daily happenings.

10. Facebook: I have really been enjoying FB. It is still a lot of fun getting back in touch with people I had lost contact with. Sometimes it makes me feel young again and then at other times I feel so old.

11. Pictures: I am so glad we are able to document so many things with all our pictures. I love looking back at pictures and seeing how much everyone has changed.

12. My 3 Kids: I am so thankful for the wonderful kids Matt and I have made together. I don't think that our lives would have been complete without them. They bring us so much joy and laughter, and sometimes a little too much of ourselves to our lives.

Thanks Tank Thursday

With so much going on lately I have barely sat down at my computer. In the past couple of weeks it's mainly been only long enough to check my email and reply to the important stuff. There are so many things to be thankful for right now....

1. Matt's Job: Cummins has been laying people off within the last couple of weeks. It has first started with giving out early retirement packages to those who are of retirement age. Those were handed out last week. Next week they will begin handing out lay-off/firings. It seems like Matt will miss this round despite the fact that he is a project manager and they are generally some of the first to go. So right now I am thankful that he has a job. On a side note it is very interesting all the different things wives have heard from their husbands about the layoffs. It seems like everyone has a different story.

2. BUNCO: Every month I am thankful for this simple, fun and relaxing evening. Last night I hosted. I had a friend come to just socialize with us who I haven't seen in a while. It was nice to get together with her. We also changed things up with a cookie swap. Which brings me to my next thankful thought.

3. Homebaked Goodies: I have been enjoying some wonderful homebaked goodies last night and today. The kids have really enjoyed them too.

4. My Children: I have such good children. I sometimes forget how good they really are but I was reminded last night with their behavior. Matt upexpectedly went to Nashville last night and I didn't have a babysitter. They played quietly in the basement, helped me, and then went to bed without much trouble. They never once left their rooms after lights out. I had several other moms asking how I did it.

5. Christmas Music: I love Christmas Music!! It brings me such joy. I enjoy both the traditional and some of the newer. Yesterday, I took the time to download several of my CDs to my i-Pod and now I have Christmas music in my car without all the CDs. And we were able to have festive music for last night too.

6. Knowing Matt will be home tonight.

7. Gift Jars: I am so thankful I discovered gift jars. We have been making gift jars for the kids teachers. The kids can help so it's something they helped to make.

8. The Girls' Christmas Program: The girl's had a great time with their Christmas program yesterday. Abby sang and did the motions beautifully. I was also thankful that Matt's meeting let out early and he was able to be there.

9. The Blessings Of Christ's Birth.

I hope you can and do take some time to be thankful.

Thanks Tank Thursday

This week we have had many things to be thankful for but at the top of our list is Elizabeth. I am thankful that nothing developed from her pistachio incident and that she is all better. Now here is the rest of my thankful list.

1. Having coffee with a freind. During our drop off time for MOPs this week I enjoyed a little girl time with a friend who I haven't been able to get together with in a while since we both seem to be going all the time but in different directions. We got caught up over a Starbuck's coffee, knitting and then a little shopping as well. It was so nice to catch up.

2. Holidays: I love holidays. I especially love this time of year. There is so much anticipation in the air. It's probably because Christmas is around the corner but I think I enjoy it because we as a family really begin to think about and talk about what we are thankful for every night when we sit down for dinner.

3. Cleaning: I enjoy cleaning on the rare occassion that I can do it without the kids or Matt around and I can turn up the music. I was able to do this since Matt was at work, the girls in extended care at preschool and Gabe was is school. I felt very accomplished even though I didn't finish. I did ge the upstairs completely done though.

4. This one is kinda funny but I am thankful Matt bought a new pair of dress shoes yesterday. They look so stylish. He also bought a new suit for a dinner we will be attending in December.

5. I am thankful my babysitter is available for our dinner in December. I wasn't sure she would be available since the dinner is during the week.

6. I am thankful that Matt encouraged me to buy a new outfit. I am also thankful that he used our credit card rewards to buy me a gift card to purchase some clothes.

7. I am thankful I took the time to learn to knit. I am really enjoying it but, it is taking much longer than I thought it would.

This is the time of year to be thankful. I hope you will take the time to think about all the things in your life you are thankful for.

6.

Thanks Tank Thursday

It's time once again to fill up the Thanks Tank. There is always something to be thankful for, even the simple things like having food to eat and a roof over your head that we take for granted. Take to time to be thankful and let your kids hear it too, because then you will be setting the example for them to be thankful. Here are the things I am happy for right now.

1. Beautiful Fall Weather: I thought I was ready for cooler weather, but this week we've had sunny days in the mid to upper 70's. It's be beautiful.

2. Fall Colors: I have really been enjoying the fall leaves this week. It seems that all of a sudden the trees changed into the most vibrant colors. It's been beautiful.

3. Elizabeth getting better: I am thankful that Elizabeth is getting over the croup that she has been suffering from since Halloween. It also seems that those pesky allergies are getting a little better now too.

4. Abby's Excitement with the Igloo: Abby was beside herself in anticipation of making her Igloo with her Daddy. She could wait until he got home so they could build it together.

5. Gabriel's excitement and great picture taking: When I told Gabriel to take pictures last night I wasn't sure what I would see when I got home. To my surprise he took some great shots. He was so excited that I gave him that task.

6. Volunteering: Last week I was able to volunteer in Gabriel's classroom. He was so excited that I could come. We play the Right/Left game which is often used at Christmas parties for exchanging gift. I used it to help reinforce right/left hand with the kids. I will also be helping out in his class on Tuesday mornings now. I guess we will see how that goes.

7. Coffee in the mornings and hot tea at night: I enjoy both of these things. Something about the ritual is calming to me.

8. Family coming for Thanksgiving: I heard from my sister earlier this week. She let me know that she and her family would be joining us for Thanksgiving. I offered to keep the kids for her if she and her husband wanted to get a hotel for some couple time. I was glad I could do this for them. I hope they know I meant it. And it's th least I could do since the kids temd to sleep at their house when we visit.

9. Bible Study: Though things have come up and I have not made it to our MOPS Bible Study yet I am really enjoying the book we are using. I am getting a lot out of it. Matt even said he would do the study with me. I think we could both benefit from it.

I hope you are able to take few moments to be thankful. Even if you don't make out a list such as this one it is a good habit to get into. Enjoy the rest of the week and your weekend.

Thanks Tank Thursday

There are so many wonderful things happening this week that I am thankful for. Here's my list for this week.

1. Knowing and being able to use my CPR training when needed.

2. Having a good ped. doctor.

3. Having our basement back and then kids playing down there.

4. My parents coming for a visit and to see Gabriel's last football game.

5. My MOPs group. I do kinda miss steering but am now a discussion group leader.

6. Such caring and loving Moppets teachers. Elizabeth loves her teachers and it's actually the sae teacher she had last year. This is such a blessing for us since she's been crying most days when she is dropped off at pre-school.

7. Hot tea at night.

8. My Bible Study class starting back with my MOPs group.

9. I am thankful for my Fall Festival Committee. They are being such a big help and doing a great job of pulling their weight.

10. Being able to see the bottom of my laundry hamper.

11. A partially clean house. Hopefully, I will finish before my parents get here tomorrow night.

That's it for this week. I hope that you take the time to think of all the wonderful things, even the small ones, that God has given us.

Thanks Tank Thursday

Well, time got away from me yesterday and last night with all the preparations for the girls' open house. I was involved because I was on the committee to help out and I also had to make sure copies of the Fall Festival Flyer and the Scrips Order forms were ready to be handed out since I am chairing both of those committees. Matt keeps telling me I take on too much and he is right. I just have a hard time saying No when I know that people are needing help or that no one else is stepping up. Anyway, here is my thankful list for this week.

Open House: The girls had a great time last night at open house. They loved seeing old friends and meeting their new teachers. Both seem to be excited to go to school, especially Abby who insisted that school started today and that she wouldn't have to wait until Monday.

School Starting: I am thankful that school will be starting next week. I am looking forward to being able to get the house clean without turning around and seeing I have another mess to clean up.

Ballet: This week Abby started Ballet. She has been asking to take Ballet since the beginning of the summer. Most classes were on break for the summer so we waited until this week. Did you know that little girls are extremely narcissistic. Abby favorite part about dance was the full length mirror in which she could watch her every move.

Football: My men are so looking forward to the football season starting and I so enjoy their excitement. Gabriel has even started counting down the days until Tennessee football starts. (Sorry Jane Anne I hope Seth doesn't torture you too much with those UT clothes.) ;)

Biking: I am thankful that we decided to go ahead and purchase our bikes. Matt rode his to class last night and we ride ours to school every morning and afternoon. And when time allows in the evenings we ride on the people trails. I have been thinking that I may even try to figure out a safe route to the girls' preschool. I have rediscovered an old love.

Playing Chase: I love it when Elizabeth starts a game of chase with me. She will give me an squinty eyed grin and then take a couple of steps away and then come back until I chase her. Then she lets me catch her so I can tickle her. It really makes for a good time.

Watching my children grow and learn. I have noticed so many changes in the kids lately. Gabriel is more independent and is loving school, even if I have to force him to do his homework. Abby is so excited to be learning all the things her brother has learned. Her hand writing is improving and she surprises me everyday with the things she has picked up on.

Elizabeth's vocabulary just keeps growing. And even though it can be frustrating her "Me do it!!" attitude is fun to watch because most of the time she can do it.

Thanks Tank Thursday

Another week is winding down and it is time once again to think about all that I am thankful for in this life. And boy there are so many. If you stop and think I am sure you can come up with several off the top of your head without even having to think too hard about it. I hope that you do too. This always seems to bring peace and joy to my heart even when it's been one of those weeks.

1. First Day of School: Gabriel had his first day of school today and boy was he excited. We walked to school which I hope we can do most everyday. He told me as we got to the door that I didn't need to walk in with him he knew the way. My boy sure is growing up. He is disappointed that he won't be riding the bus home this year but we live to close to the school so we will get to walk or ride our bikes instead.

2. First football game: Gabriel had his first football game last weekend and did really well. Score wasn't kept since it's considered a learning league, which I personally like, but they had a lot of fun.

3. Hand Srgery Going Well: Abby's hand surgery went very well on Monday. She cried as she left us but was happy soon after she arried in surgery. We were told that when she woke up after surgery she gave the nurses one of her killer smiles.

4. Organization: I am so gald that I have learned, for the most part, how to keep my life organized. I would miss mnay meetings and activities if I didn't keep things organized like I do.

5. Clean Kids Rooms: Today I really cleaned the kids rooms. Most of the time the kids just pic up their rooms and I vaccum and clean as needed. Today I went through and organized, went through both toys and clothes and cleaned. It feels really good to have that done. I feel really accomplished with that one.

6. Watching The Kids Greet Their Dad: I love watching the kids' faces light up and them running to greet their dad and give him big hugs. This is one of the great things about being a parent.

7. My Mom: My mom was such a huge help this week when Abby had her hand surgery. It helped all of us to have her here and for us to relax knowing that the other two kids were safe and sound. I was also able to attend a preschool board meeting the Tuesday after the surgery because she was there.

8. My brother and sister-in-law who called and said they were praying for Abby during her surgery and then called to check in on her afterwards. It was a very kind and thoughtful thing to do.

9. Fresh Bell Peppers: The kids have developed a love for red bell peppers. Since one red bell pepper cost around two dollars here we decided to grow some of our own. This last week they started getting ripe enough for us to eat and we are loving it. I just hope they keep this love for fresh vegetables. Matt and I are planning on building and planting our our vegetable garden for next year.

Thanks Tank Thursday

Hello to everyone! What a week we have had in the Collier Household. Since we came back from Florida it seems like we haven't stopped. So another week has flown by and it's time to do my weekly Thanks Tank Thursday list. This has been such a wonderful thing for me because it has helped me to focus on all the positive blessings in my life. So here goes and I hope you take the time to be thankful as well. We should always remembr to give our thanks to God. Take Care.

1. Healthy Kids: Even though Abby is having surgery on Monday I am so thankful that she is so healthy. As I talked to the pre-register nurse and she asekd her list of questions I was able to say no to almost everything and I felt this was such a blessing. The only trouble Abby has is trigger thumb and a quick snip of the tendon and a week in bandages will take care of the problem. But there are so many kids who are not that lucky.

2. Extra Activities for the kids: Right now Gabriel is playing flag football. It is so much fun to see him enjoying himself on the field. I don't think he will ever be super good. But having fun is really all that matters. The only thing that he needs to learn is not to tackle and trip. He's watched way too much football with his dad.

3. Reconnections: Thanks to my brother-in-law and some friend from Oregon we have become members of facebook. IT has been so much fun to reconnect with friends we haven't talked to since college or in some cases even longer. I am so thankfu for these reconnections.

4. BUNCO: Last night I hosted our MOPS Bunco night at our house. Though we had to move the party inside we still had a wonderful time. I am so thankful for this group of ladies who have blessed me with their friendships. If I hadn't found this group of women I don't know that I would have been as happy here.

5. Good Choices: I know that some of the choices I have made were the right ones. And knowing this is a huge blessing to me.

6. Attentive Siblings: Both Gabriel and Abby are so attentive to Elizabeth. It's funny to watch them as they try to mother her. And most of the time she dosn't want anything to do with it. I love the fact that they love her and want to spend time with her. That is unless they are trying to clean their rooms and then she is a whirl wind of mess and they want her out. But it is a blessing that they are so good with her. I'm not sure how she is going to handle both of them being gone during school this year.

7. My Mother: I am so thankful that my mother is coming to watch Gabe and Elizabeth while we take Abby to Riley on Monday. Without her help we would have had to divide forces. This way we can both go with her.

8. My Plants: I have really been enjoying my plants this week, except for skimming them off the top of the pool. They are just beautiful and relaxing to me.

9. Fresh Fruits and Veggies: We have begun to really eat a lot of fresh fruit and vegetables in the last couple of months. The kids and I and I think even Matt have enjoyed having the variety. We are even thinking about starting a raised vegetable bed for next year. The kids have also enjoyed being able to pick a new fruit or vegetable at the grocery store and then help me prepare it. They always manage to eat it that way too.

Thanks Tank Thursday

We had a wonderful vacation at the beach. It was a lot of fun and none of us really wanted to leave and return to our normal stress filled lives. But once we hit the road we were ready to come home. So that will start off my thankful list for this week.

1. Vacation: We had a wonderful vacation with my parents and my sister's family. It's always fun to see the cousins playing together. I hope they always get along this well.

2. Safe Travels: I am glad that our travels were safe to and from Florida. I am also gald that Matt's travels have been safe thus far as well. He should be home tonight.

3. Babysitters: I am glad I have a babysitter for tonight so that I can attend the monthly Ladies Night Out with the Newcomers club.

4. A Clean house: I cleaned the house before we left on vacation so all I really had to do was unpack and put things away. I am thankful that that was all I had to do.

5. Reading Time: I enjoy read time. Both the time I sit and read and snuggle with the kids and the times that I listen to Gabriel as he reads. He is doing so well, that is as long as he does his best.

6. The World God Created: I am thankful for this world god has created. As we drove down to Florida I enjoyed the different landscapes and sunrises and sunsets. Seeing these things outside of my comfort zone helps me to be thankful for this world around us.

7. Games kids play: I have enjoyed listening and watching the kids at play as they invent games and play them together.

8. New Recipes: I have been enjoying trying out new recipes. I even made a pretty good chicken salad from scratch that I made up if I say so myself. But I have also done some more complicated recipes as well.

Take the time to think about what you are thankful for this week.

Thanks Tank Thursday

It's been a while since I posted anything. Between my trip to Atlanta which was fun and then stressful with flight cancelations and delays and packing for our family vacation I haven't done much this week. Here are the things that make me thankful this week.

1. Safe flights to and from Atlanta: I haven't flown in 6 years and this was only the 4th trip I have taken in a plane so I was thankful that things went smoothly on the way to Atlanta. I was also thankful that I didn't have to spend the night in the airport because of the cancelations and delays caused by weather. I was finally able to get a flight to Lousiville, KY instead of Indy so that I could get home.

2. Laughter: I love hear my kids laugh and play together.

3. Fantastic In-Laws: My mother-in-law came up to help out with the kids while I was in Atlanta. If she hadn't been able to make to come I would not have been able to go to Atlanta. I am so glad she was able to come. She also brought up with her our nieces which I am sure a huge help as well. Abby was having so much fun with her grandmother and cousins that she told me she didn't want me to come home yet. :)

4. Vacation: I am thankful that we are able to take a vacation to Florida with my sister's family and my parents. I just wish that my brother and his family had been able to join us this year.

5. Someone to water my plants: I am so glad that I found a young girl to come and water my plants while we are away.

6. Friends: I have a good friend who is always making sure that I take the time to get together with other women. She calls to make sure the date she has chosen for activities is one that will work for me. I am so thankful for this.

7. New recipes: I am thankful for all the wonderful recipes I have been enjoying through our MOPs cookbook and the ones that Jane Anne has posted that I am looking forward to making.

8. Crafting: Since our flood I have been unable to do any sewing and little scrapbooking but I have recently started making ribbon tied flip flops. Abby is loving all the new and fun flip flops I am making. It's fun and easy. I have always enjoyed crafting.

9. My husband who helps and supports everything I do. And I will need his help and support over the next two years since I have taken the Co-Chair position for the preschool and the following year the Chair position. It will be a busy year for both of us with Matt finishing school and me taking on that new responsibility.

10. Football: I am thankful that Gabriel is excited about football. This year he has chosen to play football instead of soccer. It will be interesting to see how well he does and if he enjoys it as much as he thinks he will.

11. I am thankful for the time I spent with my sister and mom last week. I can't rememeber the last time we did something without a child with us. It was a lot of fun to be with them.

Thanks Tank Thursday

We've had a busy week week this week with so many activities, appointments and events. It seems like the weeks are just flying by. Part of me is glad for that and then on the other hand I would like to be able to enjoy them more. Lesuirely Summer does not seem to be a phrase that can describe our summer. I didn't sign the kids up for a lot of camps because I wanted them to enjoy the summer and just have fun but it still seems like we are doing a lot anway. Anywho, it's time to give thanks for everything big and little going on in my life.

Books on Tape: We've been borrowing books on tape from the library. The great thing about it is that you can borrow them for 3 weeks at a time. We've been using them for car rides and for rest time. Gabriel doesn't really need naps anymore but he does need somedown time as do I and books on tape have been a life saver for us all. He enjoys listening to the stories and I am able to get work done while the girls are napping and he is resting.

Cooking with the kids: I started trying to cook with the kids at least once a week. This week we made pudding popscicles. We just mixed the pudding and put it in the popscicle molds. It was easy and fun. Abby also helped me make a pie.

Grocery Shopping: This weekend I took just Gabriel to the grocery store with me. He is such a good helper. He helped to find things on the list and mark them off. Though sometimes he did get pen happy marking off more than we had bought. I also invited Gabriel to choose one fruit and one vegetable he had never had before. He chose Rainer Cherries and Summer Squash. The kids have enjoyed eating both. On my next trip I will be sure to let Abby choose something.

Girl Talk: Last night I had some wonderful conversation with some good friends and new friends. It was nice being able to relax and enjoy myself.

MOPS Cookbook: At the end of MOPS I put together a cookbook with recipes that everyone had sent me throughout the year. The cookbook has been wonderful. I am so glad to have so many delicious recipes that are family friendly. And some of the brunch recipes are wonderful as well. I am planning on taking this cookbook with me when we go to Florida since we will be cooking our meals at the house.

The Kids Excitement: Last night I hosted BUNCO at my house. The kids and Matt left for dinner and everyone showed up to play. We set up out by the pool. At some point Matt and the kids came home and got ready for bed. I caught the kids peeking out through the blinds of my room. I waved and they both started bouncing with excitement. It was so cute and such a joy.

I hope you are able to take the time to look for the little things in life that you are thankful for. Enjoy your day and your weekend and remember that God has given use so much and he never places anything before us that we can't handle with his help. Have a Great weekend.

Thanks Tank Thursday

Colossians 3: 15-17 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

With this passage in mind and having a thankful heart I am thankful for all of these and much, much more. I am thankful for my faith and for God's compassion and love. I hope you have a great week and take the time to be thankful and give him praise.

Swimming- This week we were able to enjoy some pool time with some of our friends. It was really a lot of fun even if it was a cooler than we would have liked but the kids had fun anyway.

Library Reading Program- I have been taking the kids to the library for their summer reading program. For every book they read they get specific points and then are able to pick out prizes. And some of the prizes are really worth the reading like free kids meals, pool passes, and then there are some not so cool one like toys.

Sunny Weather- With all the rain we got last week I am so happy that we are getting lots of sunny weather this week. Though we do have the occasional thunderstorm that is to be expected of summer time we have had lots of sun to enjoy.

Matt's job with Cummins- I am so thankful that Matt has such a wonderful job with a gret company. Cummins is providing support to their employees who have been affected by the flood. It's something they didn't have to do but are doing it anyway. They also were affected by the flood by having two of thier buildings and one of their plants flooded.

My Parents- I am thankful to have such loving, kind and generous parents. They have always been there when I have needed them. I can't thank them enough for everything they do for me and my family.

Outdoor Playtime- I am thankful that we have such a great backyard play area. We finally got the sandbox put together and the kids have really been enjoying it a lot in the past couple of days.
Pool Fence- Last year my dad came up and helped install a fence around the pool. I am so thankful that he took the time to do that. It has made outdoor time that much more enjoyable for all of us. The kids are safer and I can relax a little more. This has made such a tremendous difference in everything we do out in the backyard.

Clean Kitchen- I have had a clean kitchen almost all week long. I have been trying hard to make sure everyone cleans up after themselves and helps out around the house so that we can all enjoy playing instead of cleaning. Have a clean kitchen calms me.

Chores- Our chore list is wonderful and I even figured a way to make it more fun. They get to pick a flower and read what is on the back. I had a friend who couldn't believe some of the jobs I gave may kids to do. I just explained that with the right tools and supervision they can do anything you ask them to do. And all of these are things they will need to know to do when they get older. And hopefully their spouses will thank me for teaching them.

Compliments on my children: We met Matt for lunch at a local downtown diner today after we went to the library. While there one of the other customers gave me a compliment on how well behaved and beautiful my children were. It's always nice to hear from someone that you are doing a good job.

Thanks Tank Thursday

Here are the many blessings I am thankful for this week.

1. Very little flood damage: We had a major flood in our small town of Columbus, IN this past weekend, it was enough for it to be declared a Federal Disaster. We had a lot of water come in through our windows in the basement and caught it in enough time to move most things to safety. That is our blessing. Others were not as fortunate and that leads to my second thankful thought.
2. Helping Hands: The call went out for help to the many flood victims. And the help just poured in from all over town. Not only were the churches, Red Cross and variuos organizations who usually help on call but complete strangers offered up there services. Cleaning is happening and lives are slowly getting back to normal.
3. My Husband: He provides us with a wonderful life. He is loving, kind and generous. Loves his kids and is completely devoted to providing for them in the best way he knows how.
4. My Father: My father has always been a rock for me to lean on. He has always provided help while letting me learn and grow from my experiences. I have always known how much he loves me and the rest of his family.
5. Gabriel's Birthday Gift: Yesterday for my birthday Gabriel helped me plant the last of my flowers we brought back from our visit to Tennessee. It was my birthday gift from him.
6. Chores: Jane Anne over at Gravity of Motion reminded me how important chores are to children. I knew this but in the attempt to get things done quicker I had started doing everything myself. This past week the kids have all been giving help around the house and enjoying it. Gabriel will ask what he gets to do that day. And often if I say who wanted to vaccum the steps I have 2 kids yelling, "I DO!!"
7. My Yard: We have been doing a lot around the house lately and if I do say so our yard looks great. I am thankful that I can enjoy it now that we are finished.
8. Our Pool: When we bought this house we were not looking for a pool but every summer I am so thankful for it. Now I don't have to lug all the pool stuff to the community pool all the time. We just walk out our back door and enjoy. Last night swimming was the topper to a perfect birthday.