tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42674867990570443222024-03-12T23:28:15.287-05:00Goodwin ThoughtsNicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-42740896663649186012012-03-19T20:00:00.000-05:002012-03-19T20:00:41.116-05:00This is what I would like to doThis is what I would like to do.<br />
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1. I would like to go shopping with Joy and Bethany and no children! They don't know each other but we would have a blast! We could try stuff on, eat cheesecake, take all the time in the world, not worrying about if our husbands are being inconvenienced or bored.<br />
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2. I would like to fly to Mass to see Libby, her house and her girls by myself or with just Justin.<br />
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3. I would like to go see Taylor Swift in concert with my Aunt Renee.<br />
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4. I would like to stay up at Mom and Dad's and go swimming in the dark and roast marshmallows with my siblings.<br />
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5. I would like to ride on my parent's boat and watch everyone ski and tube.<br />
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6. I would like to work as a bridal consultant.<br />
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7. I would like for my arms to stop hurting.<br />
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8. I would like to go on a date with Justin to the cheesecake factory and then to a movie and get candy and popcorn and then go back for dessert at the cheesecake factory :)<br />
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9. I would like to drink pop that has caffeine in it.<br />
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10. I would like to go shopping with Libby and pick out clothes for her to try on. She's so pretty it would be fun to play dress up with her.<br />
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11. I would like to watch tv.<br />
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12. I would like to sit and read for a few hours by myself in the quiet.<br />
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13. I would like to go somewhere on an airplane, figure out flights, layovers and stuff and then stay in a sweet hotel with Justin.<br />
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14. I would like to lay out on Saylorville beach in a new swimsuit that looked awesome and that didn't cost $100.<br />
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15. I would like to go to a pet store and play with puppies.<br />
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16. I would like to go wedding dress shopping again and take ALL DAY.<br />
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17. I would like to have a box of chocolates under my bed just for me :)<br />
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18. I would like to own all the Twilight books and have time to read them.<br />
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19. I would like to ride in a boat with Justin, either a canoe or regular boat, doesn't matter.<br />
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20. I would like to have a close relationship with God and be able to maintain it.<br />
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21. I would like to have people believe me when I say things, or take what I say seriously.<br />
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22. I would like to have a lot of money and a little girl to play dress up with.<br />
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23. I would like to be able to take walks or bike rides in the evening with Justin.<br />
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24. I would like to have money to buy a bunch of really nice shoes so I always have the perfect pair for the outfit.<br />
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25. I would like to have a clothing budget of at least $100 a month :)<br />
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26. I would like to have a clothing budget of at least $100 a month for the boys :) (Micah looks sooo cute in skinny jeans!)<br />
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27. I would like a magnolia tree in my yard and I would like for the ugly mustache to be gone.<br />
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Now you know me :)Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-68221801347676707422012-02-28T14:28:00.000-06:002012-02-28T14:28:54.564-06:00Gotta shareSo I was clipping coupons the other day and came across some good ones. At Kmart, where I never ever shop, they have a deal that goes like this. Buy 2 Hillshire farms lunch meat packages for $5 and get a loaf of bread and a package of cheese slices for free! Sweet. Well so I went there and they were out of meat but darn it I'm going back tomorrow. Oh and I also printed off a coupon for hillshire farms lunch meat, $0.55 off so I'm gonna pay $4.45 for all that! I did score another deal while I was there. Two boxes of Nabisco crackers for $2.76! I got a full size box of Ritz and a box of those cheese sandwich crackers! They are on sale for $1.88 when you sign up for their rewards program and then I had a coupon for $1 off two boxes! YAY!<br />
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Then I was at Menards (aka the Man store) the other night and got paid for buying shampoo and conditioner! I paid $36 at the store then I'm getting back $36 in rebates and they were having their 11% off sale and they took it off the $36 that I paid! So I'm getting almost $40 back in rebates! And trust me, we'll use it!<br />
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If you're wondering the shampoo is pry still free. The Kmart deal goes through March 3 if you want to check it out. Oh and I swung by Hy-vee for some deals last night and found an Edwards turtle pie for $1.99 it is delicious!<br />
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Oh and I found a good easy to use website for coupons. <a href="http://www.smartsource.com/">www.smartsource.com</a> Have any of you found any good deals you'd like to share?Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-55304275967530633412012-02-14T13:09:00.000-06:002012-02-14T13:09:22.669-06:00weird dayWhat a rough day! Poor baby Jacob is so sick. I took him to the dr yesterday and they said he has croup so they gave him steroids for his throat. Then I also told the pediatrician about this thing that he does with his eyes. I had taken a video of it and brought it along. She showed it to two other pediatricians and they are all stumped. She's now trying to get ahold of a pediatric opthamologist (sp?) who recommended that she get a urine sample. So today we went back to get the urine sample. Wow, if you thought peeing in a cup is bad... So they put a little bag over his peepee and it kinda suctions on and then you just wait til he pees. Well, my very miserably sick Jacob, coughing, sniffling Micah, and I sat in a gray room with minimal toys for at least an hour, no pee. By the end both boys were crying and I was pretty close. The sweet nurse came in and said just go home and bring the pee back in this cup later. Lol so Jacob is now napping, I don't know if he's peed yet, hopefully if he has it's staying in the bag.<br />
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On a happier note my darling husband came to the office as we were leaving and carried the heaviest of us to the car, put Jacob to bed and got Micah a video. So now, for a moment I have peace, I'll let you know how the transfer from bag to cup to dr's office goes :)Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-40250903536751561782012-02-11T15:36:00.000-06:002012-02-11T15:36:30.913-06:00Gooey, yummy, chocolate and peanut butterIt's been a little while since I posted and I've tried two more recipes since then, I thought I'd share them with you. I found them on <a href="http://pinterest.com/ngoodwin32/">pinterest.</a> Both recipes are from the same blog. I have links to her blog on this post so you can check it out.<br />
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This first one is a taco dip I tried for our super bowl party and it turned out to be easy and delicious. Here is a pic.<br />
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<img alt="Pinned Image" id="pinCloseupImage" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/266627240408996184_XDR6bkrV_c.jpg" /><br />
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As you can see she made hers in little cups. I took the same recipe and put it in a 9x13 pan. Worked perfect! Here is a link to the <a href="http://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/search/label/Appetizers">recipe.</a><br />
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The second one is more up my alley. Peanut butter chocolate bars made with yellow cake mix! Same blog but I used my own pics this time. I just made them today and they are sooo gooey! Then again, Justin and I are huge fans of baking things just a few minutes less than the recipe calls for. Anyone else? Here's the recipe with my own pics thrown in.<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: 180%;">Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars</span></strong>by Greta White<br />
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1 (18.25) package plain yellow cake mix<br />
<div><div><div><div>1/2 cup butter, melted</div><div>1 cup creamy peanut butter</div><div>2 eggs</div><div>1 (12 oz) package semi-sweet chocolate chips<br />
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk<br />
2 Tablespoons butter<br />
2 teaspoons vanilla<br />
1 cup coconut (optional...my sister did not like the texture of it in there)<br />
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Directions: <br />
1) Preheat oven to 325 degrees.<br />
2) Combine cake mix, melted butter, peanut butter, and eggs in a large bowl using a mixer or spoon. Press this into a 9X13 pan reserving 1 1/2 cup of the mixture to crumble on top.</div><div> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gNPZviNXk70/TzbcBIBxE2I/AAAAAAAAALI/aD1Lf8uBiNA/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gNPZviNXk70/TzbcBIBxE2I/AAAAAAAAALI/aD1Lf8uBiNA/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div> </div><div>3) In a small pot, melt chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla and coconut.<br />
4) Spread chocolate mixture over the mixture pressed in the pan and then crumble the 1 1/2 cups of reserved cake mixture on top evenly. </div><div> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nEqcR9h3CSw/TzbcHI3bbvI/AAAAAAAAALY/HbNb3gdy_b4/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nEqcR9h3CSw/TzbcHI3bbvI/AAAAAAAAALY/HbNb3gdy_b4/s320/006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
5) Bake for 20-25 minutes. Cool completely before cutting into bars. </div><div> </div><div>Anyone wanna bite!? I really think the peanut butter part of the recipe would make for excellent cookies. I'm gonna try that next time I make this.</div><div> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_708Gq6mMiE/Tzbb9iE7gLI/AAAAAAAAALA/yfoEYIEi0nE/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_708Gq6mMiE/Tzbb9iE7gLI/AAAAAAAAALA/yfoEYIEi0nE/s320/001.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div> </div></div></div></div>Let me know your reaction or comment below my post just so I have an idea of how many people are reading my blog. I'm curious to see how many friends and family are reading and trying out these recipes. My next post should have pics of a craft table that Justin just finished making for Micah! Enjoy the deliciousness.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-32867080403151677762012-01-31T21:17:00.000-06:002012-01-31T21:17:25.669-06:00It got betterToday was not a good day. In retrospect, neither was yesterday. I was super crabby both days, which we all know means crabby kids. I'll admit I lost my cool a few times with Micah over silly things. This led to guilt, more stress piled on top of sleepiness, crying boy cuz mommy is upset, J not sleeping right, etc. Anyway I just want those of you who keep telling me I'm such a good mom to know that sometimes I'm not. Sometimes I yell, sometimes I have to go to another room and flail my arms because there's no other way to get out the frustration, and sometimes I cry in front of my kids. <br />
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On days when I'm not sleepy and my blood sugar is balanced nicely then I can handle two kids. I can patiently explain why it's bad manners to stick your finger in your nose or stay calm when for the 31st time in a month Micah has cried because I had to turn off his video to put him down for his nap. If those two things are not at the right levels I'm a different person. I can't handle the load, guilt for all the things I believe I'm doing wrong rises to the surface, my to do list suddenly is overwhelming. <br />
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Example, my darling husband comes home almost every day for lunch. Well today as I mentioned I was in a very bad mood. I then felt guilty for being in a bad mood while he was home which led to tears because I didn't have any homemade purees in the house for Jacob. Justin in his ever patient way told me that it's ok to use store bought baby food on bad days. That I don't need to stress about that, of all things. Then he went back to work.<br />
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I took his advice, (as I always should) and fed Jacob a jar of baby food. I then put Micah to bed, soon after put Jacob to bed. Was blessed by God for a 20 minute nap before J woke up and suddenly everything was better. The whole rest of the day was changed.<br />
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Thank you God for my patient, caring, genious of a husband. Without him I truly would not be able to function. Thank you that I have been allowed to be married to him for 6 years. Please please please let us be married for 50 more. I don't want to be with anyone else but him. Thank you for getting us all through the day and please give me wisdom to do it better tomorrow. I love you, Amen.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-51939391349026965202012-01-23T14:18:00.000-06:002012-01-23T14:18:17.810-06:00David and GoliathWell, last week went so well with studying a Bible story that we are going to try it every week. Pray I don't forget :) This week we are doing David and Goliath. We started off today by simply reading the story in his children's Bible and then praying together. Later, while I was taking a shower he watched David and the Giant Pickle, a Veggie Tales story. After my shower I asked if he liked the video. Micah said something to the effect of, "that story wasn't about David and Goliath." I tried to explain to him that it's just a funny version of his Bible story to help him remember. Ah well. I also quizzed him on what we studied last week and he remembered Jonah, the big fish and Ninevah. <br />
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While at the library today I checked out some books about this Bible story. They actually had more than I expected. I recommend checking out the juvenile non-fiction section of your local library. I found some other fun things there too. Potty training books, books on manners, tantrums, obeying, etc. All geared towards reading to your child! I also checked out a video called, the Happiest Toddler on the Block. I've skimmed the book but being a visual learner I thought it might be interesting to see how they turned that into a video. I've wished recently that I could take a parenting class or watch another mother of toddlers in action. One who does it right, never loses her cool and is able to hold her giant baby for more than 2 minutes at a time. I need to know how to do these things. Hopefully this video will clue me in a bit.<br />
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I checked out a non-fiction book for myself in that section as well, called the Toddler's Busy Book. It has "365 creative learning games and activities to keep your 11/2 to 3 yr old busy." Score! I've only read the first 9 pages and already it has so many things I want to implement here at home. The author is Trish Kuffner. Check it out! But if you live in Mtown you'll have to wait 3 weeks...sorry.<br />
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To end this post I'll tell you that right before I started typing I had to use a tweezers to get a penny out of a closed vent, I was successful and now my room is starting to get warm again. Oh and I'm waiting for Micah to decide to take a nap. Probably won't happen. Even though I would love to close my eyes for awhile. Last night was rough. <br />
12:16am J wakes up I go in he starts screaming bLOODY MURDER while I change him and lay him back down.<br />
12:30am I cave and nurse him to sleep.<br />
1:30am I lay him down, he wakes back up screaming. Falls asleep in about 2 min<br />
2:00am J wakes up crying and puts himself back to sleep in a few minutes.<br />
3 or 4 or so Micah wakes up crying for me. Justin goes in and M kicks and screams for me...aargh I get up, we both lay him down and i think it was quiet the rest of the night til 6:50am when J was up for the day.<br />
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I miss sleeping. Hope all of you are getting enough sleep. Those of you who are first time moms, please take a nap when your babies do and pity me :)Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-8732912306239094262012-01-20T14:36:00.000-06:002012-01-20T14:36:34.161-06:00New idea with MicahSo a couple of posts back I mentioned that I was going to try something new with Micah. I realized recently that we don't really have a plan each day. I mean we have a weekly plan...Tuesday's we go to story time. Wednesday we have MUGGS. Thursday and Friday are tot town. And usually in the afternoons we bake something or make supper together. Needless to say I felt like I should be teaching him something. He already knows every word of every item in our house, can count to 11, sing a few different songs, is slowly memorizing the gist of a few books, plays nicely with Jacob and is my official doorman every where we go. So I've kinda slacked off on the teaching since Jacob was born because it seems like Micah already knows everything.<br />
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Well since he doesn't have Awana or sunday school yet I realized I could start teaching him Bible stories. I found a book about Jonah at the local Salvation Army for $0.25 and he loved it so this was my idea. Every week we would study a different Bible story.<br />
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On Sunday because of J's nap schedule we weren't able to go to church so we started that day. We read his new Jonah book, then we read the story of Jonah in his toddler Bible. The next day we read the Jonah book again and then for his prenap video we started the Veggie Tales movie about Jonah. I also asked him questions about it to see if he was retaining the info. Stuff like that. Today we read the Jonah book again and I went into the next room for a brief moment and I could hear him talking about the story. I heard snippets about Jonah disobeying God, going to Ninevah, etc. Then later when we were wrapping up the week and what we had learned I mentioned a few things and then on his own he said, "and God is everywhere." Yay! So not only is he remembering the story but he's picking up lessons too! That was pretty neat. Then we prayed together. Which in itself is adorable. He always says, " Dear Jesus, help me to be a good boy." So cute I have to try not to laugh when he does it. <br />
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Anyway next week we'll be starting David and Goliath. I'll keep you posted. Oh and on a side note I've been waiting all day to hear about my new little niece. My sister in law has been at the hospital all day! The horrible snow is keeping me from going down and waiting in the waiting room with two little boys under the age of 3...Oh wait, thanks God for the snow otherwise I'd be sitting in a waiting room with two little boys :) I'll go tomorrow with my handsome chauffer anyway. Signing off!Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-67915981896701685302012-01-17T20:28:00.000-06:002012-01-17T20:28:19.966-06:00Two New RecipesSo I've been reading this really good book, Becoming Dad by an old friend of mine from high school, Kelly Crull. It's really good and it's based off of his blog and so it's been inspiring me to write in this blog more. I really don't know if anyone reads this but for now I'll keep posting :)<br />
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I tried a few recipes recently that were pretty good. One was a chocolate chip cheesecake dip which sounds FANTASTIC in theory but was only pretty good. I'll still share though because I tested it out on our friends the Dobbs and they seemed to really like it/couldn't stop eating it :) Here's a pic first off...<br />
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You dip graham crackers or teddy grahams in it. I think it could work as a fruit dip too. Here is a link to the recipe if you want to try it. <a href="http://newtoveggieworld.wordpress.com/2011/10/06/chocolate-chip-cheesecake-dip/">chocolate chip dip</a> It made a really large bowl, so far 6 people have snacked from it for a long time and we still have a fair amount left. Would be great to bring to a party! I did add more powdered sugar and brown sugar than it called for but I like more of a sweet flavor than a cream cheese flavor. I'd say I added at least an extra tablespoon of brown sugar and at least a 1/4 cup powdered sugar.<br />
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The second recipe I tried today was a huge hit with my husband. They are called carmelitas. Justin had a piece for dessert then while we were waiting for Micah to finish his snack a few hours later he looked at me and said, "I want another piece of that stuff." Anyway, I made it because he's a big carmel fan. So here's the pic that was on the blog...<br />
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It was super easy to make and was a good one to make with Micah. He helped me unwrap the caramels and sprinkle the 6oz of chocolate chips. I added nothing to this recipe. It only makes an 8x8 pan but they are pretty rich. I think it will take Justin and I longer than our traditional two days to finish this pan. Here is the link to the blog: <a href="http://luluthebaker.blogspot.com/2010/10/carmelitas.html">carmelitas</a><br />
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Let me know if you try any of these recipes and what you thought of them in the comments below. I'll try to keep trying and letting my 3 followers know how it goes.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-39387973000051175022012-01-15T14:16:00.000-06:002012-01-15T14:16:44.519-06:00New/used stuff I got!So it's been awhile since I posted, but some new cool things have been thrown in my lap recently. First off, we purchased a different (not new) vehicle. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LhCe0-qu81M/TxMwtUJ0WvI/AAAAAAAAAJI/TOxzPwrbOL0/s1600/100_3395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LhCe0-qu81M/TxMwtUJ0WvI/AAAAAAAAAJI/TOxzPwrbOL0/s320/100_3395.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Yes, it's a minivan but it's a cool minivan. Any haters out there should come take a look, so decked out! Love Honday Odyssey's! I'm talking to you Jennifer H.<br />
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Next new thing, I finally decided to check out pinterest! Such a fun website! I've already tried one craft idea and two recipes. The craft idea bombed but the recipes were really good. Here's a pic of one of them.<br />
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Made from scratch butter herb biscuits. SO delicious! Let me know if you want the recipe, no yeast or kneading was required! Oh and it makes twice this many. So you can follow me on pinterest now if you want too. <a href="http://pinterest.com/ngoodwin32/">Nicole's pinterest page</a> I'm going to make a cream cheese chocolate chip dip tonight for a game night with some friends. I'll let you know how that turns out.<br />
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Oh and then I just got a sweet used, ivory, canvas pottery barn slipcover from the marshall county freecycle. I just got that today. Here's a pic of that too.<br />
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Isn't it pretty?! Justin said it lightens up the whole room. Even Micah said it's "so pretty." Success. Love free things.<br />
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So I think that's all for me; but, oh, wait, Justin got something too. In order to be a supportive wife I should show that to you too...<br />
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Yes, I agree, it looks terrifying in the picture. It is in real life too. But I did buy him a membership to the shooting range here in town so I guess he needs a new toy to show off to all the other kids that go :) No it's cool, at least it's shiny.<br />
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To abruptly end this blog I'll mention that I'm trying something new with Micah. I'll be posting about that later this week so stay tuned.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-80092961371112632832011-12-15T08:44:00.000-06:002011-12-15T08:44:42.543-06:00I'd say that's enough for one day...What a morning! So many things have happened; none good. We started with Micah coming in at 6:22am. I promptly picked him up and put him in his own bed. Things were quiet for a few minutes so I went back to sleep. About 6:44am I hear voices in Jacob's room. Thinking he's just cooing I stay in bed for a few minutes just to wake up. As I'm listening I start to realize those are Micah's voices in Jacob's room at 6:44am. Mad, I get up, and sure enough he is in Jacob's room with the light on talking happily away to his little brother! Pretty sure we covered this in baby 101. Do not go in Jacob's room when he's sleeping! So anyway still mad I bring the boys back to my room to do, whatever. I notice Jacob pooping and I soon realize it's gone through his pj's. Ok, so I bring him to his room, unzip him and it is COVERING his left leg! What? how did it get there? As I slowly pull his leg out it is also on his foot. What?! So gross. After a number of wipes and a soapy wet washcloth I think we're good. By now it's only 7:20. Sweet.<br />
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Time for breakfast. After cutting off half of the black banana for Micah and cutting up a waffle. I go to feed Jacob in his room. When I come back out Micah has the fridge door wide open. When I ask what he's doing he bursts into sobs on the floor. (Whenever we come up to him as he's doing something naughty and he's startled this is what happens.) Great so anyway after a little tussle with the fridge door I finally get him to sit and finish his breakfast. He then has to go to his room for a timeout for, well, a lot of things. <br />
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During his timeout I realize it's trash day so I put Jacob in his beautiful hand made cradle :) and tell Micah to go keep him company while I collect the trash and take it outside. Usually there are no problems with this plan. Today when I come inside Jacob is crying. I hurry to my room to see what's wrong and J has his foot stuck in the cradle and Micah is holding his toy. As I pull out his foot I ask Micah if he took J's toy. He then tells me that he hit Jacob in the head with it. Sure enough there is a little red patch on J's forehead. "Just go back to your room," I tell Micah. <br />
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So now it's 8:40am I just put J down for his nap (which he still hasn't fallen asleep for) and threw his poop filled pj's in the wash. So gross they are washing by themselves. Please God please let this day get better oh and maybe a nap for me??Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-55885594271272184352011-11-21T14:02:00.000-06:002011-11-21T14:02:12.188-06:00Still not asleepAs I write this, both of my children are screaming. Both because they don't want to take a nap. It's really been one of those days. Sometimes I wish I could drop my oldest off at his Nana's and just, well do anything else. He is in the phase of his life where all he says is "no" and "why." They why doesn't bother me much but man oh man the "no" sure does. Even though I know it's developmental it still boggles my mind. Even when I offer him something he likes he says "no." He refuses to obey a big chunk of the time and no amount of discipline, jokes, bribes, etc work. What's a girl to do? I spend 24 hours a day with this person. Even at night when he wakes up he wants me. I don't want him. I've already been up twice with Jacob. That sounds terrible but I'm venting as gently as I can. Even now he's looking over my shoulder whining and saying no to going back to bed. Advice, help, prayers? Anything. I will take any and all advice I can get. <br />
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People say well maybe he's just growing out of his nap, well maybe he is but he should still stay in his room. I even said to him you can bring books in your bed but you have to stay in your bed. He even said no to that. He LOVES books. I have no idea what consequence to give for this. Spankings don't work, bribes don't work, taking away his toys doesn't work. He probably came out 15 times. Jacob had 4 shots today at his six month checkup. He doesn't feel good. But the only thing I can do is pick up Micah and put him in bed yet again. When is it Jacob's turn? When do I get to take care of him? Why does he have to take a back seat just because he is immobile? I would give anything to have family closer. I have had this day many times in the last six months. Pray for us. Pray for me to have patience, to have wisdom, to understand the difference between the urgent and the important. To know how to effectively discipline with love. Man. well Micah is quietly talking to himself in the living room. And I think Jacob has fallen asleep. Hope so. Tune in next time...Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-30122544437121124022011-11-15T15:19:00.000-06:002011-11-15T15:19:17.468-06:00What is going on?!So Jacob and I started our afternoon by feeding him carrots for the first time. He loved them, ate a whole bunch and got really messy. It was adorable. Then as I was chatting with him in his bouncy seat I heard him fill his diaper. No big deal, I carried him to his room and undid his diaper. It was crazy full. I started pulling out wipes as fast as I could but I was soon completely overwhelmed. First it was on his hands, then he grabbed his feet! Then it was on my hands then somehow both of his legs were covered! Then he tried to put his feet in his mouth! "What is going on?" I shouted! I didn't know what to do. I turned and saw that I was quickly running out of wipes. Even the fresh diaper I was going to put on was soiled. This has NEVER happened to me before. Finally I got as much as I could then I carried his little brown body to the tub. <br />
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New problem. I do not give baby baths. I am waaay to paranoid about him slipping under water. Justin is the bath man. Plus Justin had just informed me that Jacob is way to big for his baby tub. So I put the bumbo in the water and placed him in it. I soon realized that the area that needed to be washed was now in a chair. LOL that would not work. So I put a big towel in the tub, laid his head on that and with a small amount of water in the tub finally got us both clean. Sheesh.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-27019867158131159532011-11-04T09:48:00.000-05:002011-11-04T09:48:01.854-05:00Breaking out of our comfort zone...Thanks Aunt Adrian :)Both Micah and I dislike purposely making a mess. He doesn't like getting his hands dirty, sticky, wet, you get the point. I dislike messes simply because it is one more thing to pick up in my already scattered about house. When I'm stressed or angry I clean, it distracts me and uses up my anger in a physical way so that I don't take it out on anyone. Needless to say, we don't do a lot of crafts at our house because neither of us enjoy the mess.<br />
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Well, yesterday Micah and I had breakthrough. My sister-in-law Adrian had bought Micah fingerpaints for his birthday, way back in March. Since I don't like messes we hadn't used them yet. But we pulled them out yesterday, covered the table in newspaper and went at it. Micah was hesitant at first. Even asking me to wipe his hands the second we put them in the paint. I encouraged him to let them stay dirty and use his fingers as a pencil. By the end of our adventure there was paint all over the newspaper, we had painted some pinecones and a "pretty picture." Micah got over his dirty hands phobia for a few moments and I was able to clean it up with minimal effort. Here is a photo of Micah showing off his dirty hands.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4UnhddJvz38/TrP6nL-CvnI/AAAAAAAAAI0/Jczug6pA_08/s1600/100_3146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4UnhddJvz38/TrP6nL-CvnI/AAAAAAAAAI0/Jczug6pA_08/s320/100_3146.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-80448797410291873512011-11-03T13:46:00.000-05:002011-11-03T13:46:47.306-05:00Trying to be cool.So a bunch of my newish friends have blogs. They are creative, clever, funny and crafty. I am none of these things. But yesterday I decided I wanted to try baking more things with Micah. So here was what we made yesterday.<br />
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Even though they aren't pretty they were yummy and super easy. Just slices of bread rolled flat and baked in muffin tins. We put in tavern and shredded cheese. Perfect for my non-crafty self. Oh and Micah made "peanut butter cookies."<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hyZZXzmgRiU/TrLghq2l2VI/AAAAAAAAAIs/a3D48Fuh-To/s1600/100_3138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hyZZXzmgRiU/TrLghq2l2VI/AAAAAAAAAIs/a3D48Fuh-To/s320/100_3138.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-60411400534592133942011-03-02T16:25:00.000-06:002011-03-02T16:25:19.264-06:00An Ephiphany: A mother realizes the cause of her impatience.I think the hardest part about being a mom is not the lack of sleep but the impossibility of day dreaming or planning quietly in my own mind. Just coming to the computer to write this I know it will be a short post because my son is awake and is always speaking to me. Don't get me wrong, I love that he has a good grasp of the english language but sometimes, selfishly and foolishly, I just want to think in quiet.<br />
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I've just come to realize this cause of my unhappiness after naptime. I've always been one to wander with my thoughts, to mentally replay parts of my day or rethink about what I just read in a good book. I think this is what causes me to lose patience with Micah so quickly. I feel as though a conversation is being interrupted. Clearly he has no idea that his mother lives so much in her own mind. To him he is breaking the silence, learning to communicate and start conversations. Sorry my child. Now that I know this is an issue I will realize the pettiness and try to save my thoughts for after 7pm.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-51734787753751238912011-01-27T14:04:00.000-06:002011-01-27T14:04:38.703-06:00Fast foodAll right so this is why the blog is called Goodwin thoughts. I never have anything interesting to say about my own life but I like to share my opinions sometimes, the title gives me that right :) So today I saw something on facebook about how Taco Bell is in a fight with a lawfirm about the reality of the meat they use. aka whether or not it's beef, etc etc. Taco Bell says it is, this law firm says it isn't. Anyway the point of my upcoming rant is why do we care? Sure knowing there is real beef in our $0.99 lunch is vitally important to our desire to eat more than one but really?<br />
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Recently I watched the movie, Super Size Me about the guy who only eats McDonalds for 30 days. He also brings up how people sue fast food chains all the time because they claim these restaurants made them fat, or have high cholesterol. So now because of this all our junk food places are giving us healthy options. I'm not really getting anywhere here sorry. I'm annoyed at the people who sue McDonalds. Are you really that ridiculous that you don't know that a double cheeseburger with fries and a pop everyday for lunch isn't good for you? Or what about those that drink a gallon of soda a day. A GALLON! That's the size of a jug of milk people. Come on. How can you blame McDonalds or any fast food place for your poor eating habits. These restaurants are for a little splurge on calories, they are not part of a nutritious diet, nor have they ever claimed to be (well til now) Don't you remember going to a fast food place just for fun on a vacation or just for some ice cream. This wasn't a place our parents took us to daily, weekly or even monthly.<br />
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So I'm just frustrated with stupid people I guess who blame everyone else for their own problems. Let me know of some other dumb examples like suing McD's again for burning yourself on hot coffee. Oh they didn't tell you it was hot? My bad I just assumed all Americans know that plain old coffee is hot. Did they expect ice cubes to come pouring out? Ha taw. So this is my rant for the day, feel free to share some funny stories about dumb people if you want. No names please, let's make this anonymous.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-59895261040705974222011-01-07T14:12:00.000-06:002011-01-07T14:12:26.653-06:00What's going on here.I am so glad that Christmas is over. I loved seeing my family and watching Micah enjoy his gifts but we did so much driving to and from Des Moines, I didn't think I could handle one more hour long drive with Micah saying, more truck, more bus, more cow, cookie, rick (music), etc etc. That boy does not stop! I love him dearly but sometimes my ears get tired :)<br />
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So now it's January, we're having a mini blizzard outside and life has definitely slowed down. It's wonderful. The biggest news is that we have been having fish problems. Our beta that we'd had for over a year finally died and so we purchased two fantail gold fish. Well, a few weeks later they were dead. Micah and I really enjoyed them so we bought two more this week, within a few hours, they also were dead. So sad, Micah keeps saying, "More Bobs." That's what we had named them; both sets. I consulted an engineer who happens to also be a fish expert and we are trying his advice. Cross your fingers; poor baby Micah loved his little Bobs.<br />
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Justin is back to working every business day of the week. In December he took off at least one day a week, it was wonderful. Now that he's been with Fisher for five years he got a few more vacation days this year so I told him to save them til after the baby is born. He can stay home for a few days while I catch up on sleep. Planning ahead :)<br />
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As for me, we found out we are having a little boy in May. Too be honest I was pretty upset that day, I had my heart set on a little girl. God has been good and giving me little reasons why a boy is a good thing. For example, we have a little river in our back yard. Micah will have so much fun with a brother in the creek every summer. More fun than he could have with a little girl right? I'm not nearly as excited to decorate the new nursery though now. I do like blue rooms though so maybe it can still be cool. Right now that room has yellow dandelions on wallpaper, and two twin beds with gold headboards... <br />
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So that's what's going on here. I hope the rest of you are enjoying the slower pace of January.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-8411499094126127752010-12-22T12:28:00.000-06:002010-12-22T12:28:55.487-06:008-10 weeks; 3-5 business days; your call is very important to usAh, Qwest, how I hate thee, let me count the ways...<br />
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1. Whenever I call I wait far longer than an "important caller" should wait.<br />
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2. The bills you send me have been wrong EVERY time.<br />
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3. I had to call 3 times to receive the rebate check that was promised us in our bill because you sent it to the wrong address.<br />
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4. I have been calling since September about our $50 visa rebate card that we have still not received.<br />
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5. We had to change the name on the account because you made us and then we were charged the full amount of our bill because we didn't call in and ask you to continue to give us the discount that first time subscribers are supposed to get for a year. (sorry, figured you would know that on your own)<br />
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6. Now that we have changed the name on our account everything is completely messed up because you never closed my name. Now when I call, the service representative wants to know why there are two different names on the same account and do I know a Justin Goodwin? <br />
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Trust me darling Qwest if there was another internet server in Marshalltown I would have ended our relationship with you long ago. Please try harder, I really want this to work. Your representatives are so professional and kind, if only they followed through...Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-4092476299320091102010-12-15T13:02:00.000-06:002010-12-15T13:02:06.903-06:00My little trouble maker.So lately, Micah has been getting into everything. I've been trying to take pics now of the funny ones so I can share them with everyone. Here are a few. <br />
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In these next two photos he had got into my makeup bag and since he had watched me so many times he knew right where the makeup goes. Unfortunately the carpet got some lipstick too.<br />
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This photo he had pushed a chair up to the counter to the left of the stove. Crawled across the stove, poured all my salt and a few sprinkles of pepper into the pan on the stove. Unscrewed and sprinkled some of my oregano all over the counter. And yes he's crying in the picture because he got caught, I never even got a chance to scold him, I was laughing too hard.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This next photo goes with the previous one. I had foolishly left the dishwasher door open as well and he likes to help me put the silverware away. Since I wasn't there to open the drawer for him, he simply put them in a pile in front of the drawer. He did all this in 5 minutes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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One more, this one happened today while I was standing next to him. I always wondered how long he'd wait before he climbed in here for the first time.<br />
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I'll try to post these as they happen from now on...Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-86118855196110495612010-09-14T13:11:00.000-05:002010-09-14T13:11:14.253-05:00Sponsoring a child in AlbaniaI was looking at Bethany Christian Services' website today and came across this article about sponsoring a child in Albania. Bethany is a Christian adoption and foster care organization. I just now saw that they also allow you to sponsor a child. I clicked on Albania just to see what it's about and this is the article. I encourage you to check out their website to see if you would be willing to sponsor an international child or even look into foster care or adoption. Here is Bethany's website... <a href="http://www.bethany.org/">http://www.bethany.org/</a><br />
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Albania Sponsorship Facts <br />
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Being the hands and feet of Christ to children and to pregnant women at risk of human trafficking<br />
Sponsor a child living in a Transitional Group Home<br />
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Bethany began its Albanian Sponsorship program in 1998. Children involved in the program live in Transitional Group Homes (TGHs) built in 1994 and 2000 by Bethany and Bethany supporters. The TGHs are located in Tirana, the capital city of Albania. <br />
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Although Bethany built the TGHs, they are owned and run in partnership with the Albanian government. Bethany Albania's home office is located in the TGHs, promoting direct involvement in childcare and program consultation. American volunteers live in the TGHs, applying their professional skills to further enhance child care and provision. Direct childcare is provided by Albanian government staff.<br />
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Each child living in the TGHs is waiting for his/her forever family. For some, this comes through domestic or intercountry adoption. Others are reunited with their biological families or are placed with extended family members. Unfortunately, when such options are not possible, some children will "age out" of the TGHs when they are 4 years old and will move to a home for older children.<br />
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Bethany is actively involved in a foster care pilot project through a partnership with the Albanian government and UNICEF. Our dream is for the children living in the TGHs and other institutional care locations to be matched with loving foster families. When this occurs, your International Sponsorship support will "move" with the child, helping the foster family meet his/her needs.<br />
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Sponsor a woman in Bethany's Shepherding Home Program<br />
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In the fall of 2005, we introduced the Shepherding Home Program (SHP) as part of Bethany's Albanian Sponsorship program. The pregnant women and their children involved in this program are primary targets of human trafficking, a danger that is sweeping through Albania at an alarming rate.<br />
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The SHP is designed to provide shelter, protection, and counseling to women as they live with local Shepherding Home families through the duration of their pregnancy. Our objective is to help these women avoid trafficking, abandonment, abuse, mistreatment, and abortion, while they work toward a life of hope and independence.<br />
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Thank you for considering sponsorship in Albania.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-24479760523626061412010-09-02T13:45:00.000-05:002010-09-02T13:45:38.875-05:00Party at the vineyardSo last night was the vineyard party, which was yummy, a little too much and fun by the way :) I chatted with two women, both are pregnant, one is 11 weeks and the other is 13 weeks. Both of their husbands work in Justin's group at work. One girl's husband has already mentioned to Justin about me taking care of their baby when he/she is born and last night the other lady comes over and says..."So I have this all planned out. Nicole you are going to start an in home day care for everyone in our group!!" Lol luckily they are the only two who are pregnant and the group is pretty small. But I kinda think she was serious. She's planning on working also after her baby is born. Can you see me having Micah plus 2 newborn babies in my house?? I can't say it wouldn't be fun/exhausting but um kinda scary?? Too bad Sarah or Adrian don't live closer we could start one together.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-59904015275715822992010-06-24T09:39:00.000-05:002010-06-24T09:39:57.495-05:00Big PresentI feel like I'm getting a really big present next week. We close on Wednesday, I'm not sure when we move in yet though. But how exciting to have a really big house in Marshalltown. We looked for over two years, our house was on the market for 8 months and now we are down to days. I'm so glad we found this house. Everytime I've been there I don't want to leave. It already feels comforting to me to be there. I want to post pics of it so much. Maybe during our walk through on Wed I'll take some so I can start showing it. I hope Micah likes this big present as much as we do.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-82839483274573042552010-06-15T09:14:00.000-05:002010-06-15T09:14:35.841-05:00Living at Mom and Dad'sWell we're here. Living at my parent's house... It sounds so loserish to say it out loud to people. Whenever I do I quickly remind them that we do own our own home we just have to wait a few weeks. Their expression changes from "weirdo" to "oh phew." Suddenly I'm a normal human again they can be seen talking too. <br />
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Micah is doing very well considering. It took him a few nights but he slept through the night without hugs and diaper changes. I'm rather concerned he's going to want to stay here when we leave. He's pretty enamored with his Nana. He follows her everywhere. She's very gracious and obviously loves him, it's very cute.<br />
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I hope Justin has fun in Mtown. He's living there all week with one of his buddies. I called last night and he missed the call because he was playing guitar hero on Wii. I think he'll be fine :)<br />
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As for me I'm very sleepy finding a place to crash for naps is difficult in someone else's house. I never know when someone is coming home or will need the room for something else. (Micah naps in my bedroom during the day.) Other than that I can tell the stress from the past few weeks is melting off, I'm so glad.<br />
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I hope to see a number of you this weekend. Either at my cousin's wedding shower or at the ICubs game. Sarah I still want to hang out with you while I'm in the area though. Don't let's forget ok?Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-11101037076495680502010-06-09T11:12:00.000-05:002010-06-09T11:12:00.651-05:00Finally some relief<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4W1KbhGGdvU/TA-7yAcyCXI/AAAAAAAAAFs/uXlRsK7h9_8/s1600/100_2250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4W1KbhGGdvU/TA-7yAcyCXI/AAAAAAAAAFs/uXlRsK7h9_8/s320/100_2250.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, $4880 later I have a new wall in my basement that no one goes down to and will not be mine starting Friday. Ah the joys of moving. Thankfully it is finally done, we will move out on Thursday and I can finally take a deep breath. This is what my house looks like these days...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">I really hate having a cluttered house like this especially with a VERY mobile 15 month old but we're surviving. I'm just so glad my basement is finished. My brother the mortgage lender got me a great rate on my new 30 yr mortgage. And on July 2 or 3 we will move into our new house. I just hope I can remember to switch my address twice to all the different businesses and that I can get everything packed by tomorrow evening. Thanks to all of you who are helping with this whole process. It is GREATLY appreciated.</div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267486799057044322.post-31016220980766674292010-05-27T10:02:00.000-05:002010-05-27T10:02:22.348-05:00Our New HouseSo I decided to make a list of all the things I'm looking forward to in my new house. Just so you can get an idea of the vast differences between what I have now vs what I will have starting in July.<br />
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1. NO TRAINS!!!!! I cannot stress this enough.<br />
2. 3100 sq ft. We currently have 1200.<br />
3. 3 bedrooms with possibilities in the basement. We currently have 2.5.<br />
4. Master bath. No more stairs in the middle of the night.<br />
5. Built in 1975, not 1910. <br />
6. Crazy nice neighborhood. No more dogs, orange houses or sirens.<br />
7. Creek running behind the yard.<br />
8. Our backyard faces a field, not an alley.<br />
9. Five minutes to Justin's work, as opposed to 45 min.<br />
10. Fire place, new carpet, a deck...<br />
11. Large finished basement with tons of extra rooms.<br />
12. The owners are leaving tons of furniture, some are antiques. Granted, they are also leaving towels and bathmats but that's what garage sales are for right?<br />
13. Flat top stove. COUNTER SPACE.<br />
14. Laundry off the kitchen.<br />
15. Attached, two car garage. We currently have detached, almost one car garage. It's too short for either of our cars.<br />
16. It is valued much higher than we are paying for it.<br />
17. Hall bathroom is large enough that Justin can sit on the floor and give Micah a bath. The shower is also completely retiled, never been used.<br />
18. Master bedroom is humorphous. Also, walk in closet :)<br />
19. Whenever I'm there I don't want to leave.<br />
20. Office/library in the basement. With large antique desk.<br />
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Basically this is the house dreams are made of. Granted the wood is all super dark, the backyard is not fenced in and the bushes in front of the house are like a mustache that has never been trimmed but I LOVE IT. I cannot wait to start our new life in the beautiful new house. Please come visit anytime. We will be broke for awhile since we are losing so much money on this current house so there isn't going to be enough furniture and the wall paper throughout the house is hideous. But you won't have to worry about waking Micah, we can cozy up in front of the fireplace. Play some wii in the basement. It makes me feel like I can take a deep breath, finally.<br />
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Thanks God.<br />
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Pictures will follow after we move in.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17855601745255931380noreply@blogger.com2