Signed, Sealed, but not QUITE Delivered....

Today we signed the closing papers on our house. It feels AMAZING to have a house of our own.

BUT, because we didn't sign all of the papers and get them processed before 5:30, we have to wait until Monday before it's "official."

We're just hoping that the owners will allow us to move our belongings into the house before Monday. We have everyone set up to help, and it would be amazing if we could. (It's most likely to happen, but you never know....)

Anyway, we're on the TAIL end of apartment living.....and it feels GREAT!! :)

Waiting Stinks

Last night, Steve and I put in another offer on the house that I dreamed about. It took a lot of talk and discussion to get us both on the same page, but we're both there....and anxious.

We wait to hear back with nervousness and anxiety....and giddiness.

I have to admit, I'm BEYOND giddy about this house. I can't wait to hear whether they'll accept our offer or counter-offer.....

Not knowing is SO hard.

Update

It's interesting to me that when I complain, my sweet hubby decides it's time to take action.

Last week we decided that it's time for us to find a house of our own. The boys need their own rooms, and we are officially on our own with our rent now (Steve got a raise, and Cam now has supplemental Social Security....) so we decided that it's time. On Tuesday we looked at 3 houses. The first one is one that I fell in love with online, but once we actually SAW it, it was a different story. It was SO teeny. Steve couldn't even stand upright to go down the stairs. I stood at the bottom and the ceiling was grazing my head. Definitely NOT the house for us.

The second house was nice. It's one that someone had fixed up and was trying to flip. The floors were new, new carpet, paint, it was cute, but it didn't have NEARLY the room I was hoping for. Steve fell instantly in love with this second house.

The third house was one of our friends' houses, and while the upstairs was cute and nice, the downstairs needed a LOT of love and attention. It was missing walls and just a mess. I knew it was more than we could do.

That night we went back to see the second house and show Cameron. The boys were SO in love with the backyard and didn't want to leave. I wasn't feeling the same level of love for this house that Steve was, so I was trying to find it's positive features. We told our realtor that we would love to put in an offer on this house, but we'd like to keep looking as well. He thought that was a great idea, so this week we're going to be looking at a few more houses.

I hope we can find something that will work for us, and won't kill us financially. It's a scary/exciting time for our family.

Nerves

I've got them in BUNCHES.

Tomorrow is my first Sharing Time. I'm not too worried about the kids, I already love them and know most of them....but I'm worried about getting my point across. I've got all sorts of props and things, but I want the kids to remember past church what I'm trying to teach....too much to ask?? Probably.

Not only do I have nerves, but Cameron does too. He starts school back up on Monday. (I'm doing the happy dance...I can't wait!) He's excited to go back and even MORE excited because this year they have a pet bunny. The kids are going to vote on a name for the pet, and he really hopes his choice is picked. He is still thinking of a name, but either way, he's happy to be able to take care of such a cute critter.

Jake's a little bundle of nerves as well. He was very disappointed this week when he didn't get to take his "school supplies" to school. He thinks he's big enough to go to school too. I've promised him that we will have our OWN school at home while Cameron is gone. He's okay with that, for now. I just worry that he'll see right through my non-knowledge and want real school anyway. So far I've got him flash cards, videos, a workbook, and some crayons and other goodies. He's SO ready to go to school, even though he's only 3.

Wish us all well....we may very well need it. :)

New Jobs....Old Loves

A few weeks ago (while I was out of town) I was called to be in a new calling at church. Since becoming an adult (18 years old...) I've held MANY callings: Primary teacher (11 year olds and 5-6 year olds), Primary chorister (twice...two different wards), Cub Scout Den Leader, Visiting Teaching Coordinator, and Relief Society Meeting board-member. They've all been challenging in their own way, but my love was (and still is) Primary. I love hearing the kids bear sweet testimony of the gospel basics. Don't get me wrong, I've absolutely LOVED being in the adult classes, but found staying awake in class a little difficult. *giggle*

Anyway, new calling, right? I'm now in the Primary Presidency. I had a feeling it was coming when the previous counselor announced that it was her last Sunday. Then that same day, I went down to our Primary room for my calling, and realized that it felt comfortable. I KNEW that calling was coming, but I didn't say a word. Not to anyone....

Then, when Brother R, from the bishopric, called to come and visit with Steve and I, we began discussing why he was coming. Steve started saying, "I JUST got my calling (he's teaching the 9 year old kids, he is struggling, but seems to like it well enough.) It can't be me!"

I calmly looked at him and said, "It's for me."

He huffed for a minute, and then asked me why, and I said I'd discuss it with him after the calling came.

Sure enough, it was what I had thought and I accepted it (I think I'd accepted it when I felt like it was coming the previous Sunday).

I have been anxious about it since receiving the call...mostly because I've never been in a presidency before and don't really know what to expect.

After a quick run-down from the Primary President (a VERY good friend) and spending this last Sunday in Primary I'm no longer worried. I'm excited and ready for the current challenge. When I was set-apart (a special blessing given to those who are called, giving them the rights and blessings associated with the new calling) I was reminded over and over that Heavenly Father WILL hear and answer my prayers. He will guide me and help me say what the children need to hear. My family will be blessed, and most importantly I will be blessed (both spiritually and physically) as I serve.

I'm hoping to share some Sharing Time ideas on my side-bar, just like I did with my singing time ideas. Sharing is my best kept secret. I'm not that creative on my own, really....but I can play up someone else's idea like you wouldn't believe.

Not All Piano Concerts Are Boring....

Steve and I went to see Jon Schmidt in concert last night. Steve has loved this particular artist for QUITE a while, and I had only ever heard his music when Steve played the CD in the car. Otherwise, I was clueless.

Several months ago, Steve found a video clip of Jon on youtube where he was playing a really cool mixed song. Steve played it for me, and I was HOOKED! I love this song (and can literally listen to it over and over and over and NOT get sick of it!)

Then in April, Steve was looking on Jon's website and found out that Jon was coming to our area for a concert in September. We immediately put it on our calendar (the date the tickets went on sale AND the concert date) making every effort to go and see his performance.

As the days got closer, Steve had talked to a guy he works with and invited them to join us on a double-date. They got excited as well. And thankfully, the husband got us all a good deal on the tickets!

Then came last night.

I have only ever been to ONE other concert (Tim McGraw, 1997, state fair....was FANTASTIC!) but I have to admit, this was NOT what I had expected. Jon was entertaining, especially with his cellist friend, Steve. They teased each other (when Steve introduced Jon, he said, "Welcome our pianist for the evening......Jim Brickman!" *giggle* Then when Jon came out, someone in the audience called out, "WE LOVE YOU, JIM!!" *laughing hysterically*!) There was dancing WHILE playing (Yes, it looked hilarious, but it added to the song as well!) playing upside-down, and backwards playing. He even did a little bit where he pulled a random guy out of the audience to "jam" with him. THAT was cool!

He started out playing some familiar songs, then he called his friend, Steve, out and they played Love Story and Viva La Vida (two separate songs....for legality sake!) and the crowd went wild!

He played his new favorite song to play, "Game Day." My Steve told me that he LOVES this song and wants it. I have to admit, it was amazing and VERY moving.

At the end of the concert, the audience all stood begging, PLEADING for more, and as part of their encore Jon and Steve played "Dumb Song," and then took a vote. By applause we were voting on "Tribute" or "Love Story meets Viva La Vida." The applause was overwhelming. We got to hear Love Story TWICE! The second time they played it, they encouraged us to sing along. SO SO fun and SO SO cool!

The song that actually made me cry was "Renaissance Hymn." He explained ALL the symbolism behind it and it made it so meaningful and just amazing! I want that song now....

If he's ever in your area, I highly recommend getting tickets. You will NOT regret it!

I'm Free! I'm Free! Uh, I Mean, First Day of School

We ALL (yes, including Cameron) have been looking forward to today for the past month or so. Cameron was beyond ready to see his friends again, have a set schedule, and learn. I've been ready for peace in my home those few precious hours while he's away. Don't get me wrong, I love Cameron and I love having him around, but there are many days when he and his brother fight SO much that I just want to be done being a mom.

Cameron woke up extra early this morning, excited. I woke up when the alarm went off, tired and excited as well. We didn't have to worry too much about his clothes, because he set them out last night.

We didn't have to worry about him forgetting any school supplies, he'd already dropped them off at the school when we went to the open house on Friday. It was pretty relaxing, until the boys got into another fight (over toy cars, of all things...) and mom did her usual yell of, "Stop! That's enough! Don't HIT! You're NOT in charge!!"

The bus came, and he was off...practically out the door before the bus honked it's horn.

I'm excited for him to learn more, meet new people and become a little more independent...but I'm really excited for the peace and freedom I'll have by only having one needy child at home. :D

So Excited...but with NO Motivation...

This upcoming weekend is Memorial Day Weekend (I know, you already knew that, didn't you!?) and our family's annual camping trip. Since my parents bought a motor home a few years ago, we haven't been able to get to our usual site (too many high bumps and too deep dips). Last year we tried camping in an actual campsite, one you have to pay for...and the rules stated that we couldn't even let the tires of the 4-wheelers touch the ground inside the campground. It was very sad and quite boring.

This year, we decided that we needed to find a new spot, one where we could play like we want to, and one that's still pretty. So we took a scouting trip on Saturday. The drive was fun. Jake kept calling out when he'd see horses or cows. Then we got to the forest, and Cam began worrying about bears. The weather wasn't very good...it was snowing and blowing, but at least it wasn't sticking. We drove for a while, talking and laughing and then we turned off where my uncle suggested. We drove around a little and came across THE most beautiful campsites I've seen in YEARS. There aren't any outhouses, but that's okay. There's tons of trees, and a little fire pit. There's also a small creek that runs through.

I can't WAIT to go camping now. I was excited before, but now that I know where we're going, it's making the wait almost unbearable.

I have much packing to do (and with that little creek, MUCH laundry to do so I have extra clothes for the boys...) but my motivation to do all the packing has left me. I need to be inspired, but I just don't want to do much of ANYTHING.

Before Thursday, I need to help my mom pack up her motor home, take my camping gear to be stowed on the motor home (including the tent, sleeping bags, mattresses, and playpen...not including my clothing and extra fun stuff), I have lots of laundry that needs done so that the boys can play in the mud and I won't worry about them being cold, and my messy house needs to be in order, so that I can leave. The bummer part is that Steve won't be coming, he has to work, and the saddest part is that he'll be away from us, and working ON his birthday. I know, that's life, but I feel bad. That also means I need to get his birthday present before I leave.....

Oh, so much to do....where's my motivation?

CONGRATS!!

It's an exciting day! My friend, Mattsmom, had her 3rd little baby today. A beautiful little girl!

Congrats mama and daddy!!

Jonathan Lee is BORN!!

My little nephew was born last night at 8:08 pm. He weighed 7 pounds 5 ounces. He's 18 1/2 inches long. The picture I was sent is SO adorable (the pacifier is as big as his whole head it seems) but I can't post pictures from my camera. (Thanks to my brother who fixed me up! YAY!!) When I get some new ones I'll share!! YAY!! He's here and healthy (as far as I know!)

He's Coming....

My sister is being induced today. She's officially a week overdue, and yesterday her blood pressure was slightly high. They're worried it will turn into pre-e. (Yeah, I'd spell it out, but I totally don't know how to spell!) I'll let you know when he gets here!! YAY!!

Well...

We've got a date for when Jacob will be cut out of me....June 6, 2008. I was SO hoping I could get 06-07-08, but Dr. H will be out of town. So the day before is what we've got scheduled. I can't hardly wait!!

The other exciting baby news is that he's "big." As soon as I was measured the doctor told me that he's definitely big. I guess all those cute, little clothes I got probably won't last very long!

Oh, now for the poopy news....the back window of our van WILL be replaced tomorrow, but instead of $200.....it's going to be around $300!! Yeah, I hate these kinds of things!

And to end on a happy bit of news, at least for me. I've been noticing little things when I watch ABC....in between some commercials I see a phrase, "the Mole was here" with a fingerprint in the background. I've been hoping and praying, and it's TRUE!! My absolute favorite show of ALL time is coming back, June 2nd!! YAY!!

Wait, is this SPRING!?

The weather was AMAZING! (And I'm glad Steve pushed me out the door to enjoy some of it...)

Movement

This pregnancy has brought me many exciting things. The thought of another baby is SO exciting to me. I'm sure if I had been able to concieve when I wanted to, things wouldn't necessarily be the same....but because of this wait, I've learned to cherish EVERYTHING this child has brought.

Last night was one of the things I've been looking forward to for a LONG time. For 4 weeks now I've been able to quietly enjoy the fluttery movements of my baby (sometimes they're not so "fluttery...") and last night, I was able to feel the baby pushing through my belly....with my hand!! Outside movement has been something I've waited for, and last night, Steve got to enjoy the little movements, and this morning Cam got to feel his sibling kicking his hand (probably the only time it will have the upper hand over him!)

I love this, and just HAD to share!!

News I've Been Sitting On....

I can't hold it back ANY longer!! I have been waiting to "announce" my news until I was able to see my doctor, but I can't stand it ANY LONGER!! (Did I already say that?? Then it MUST be true!!)

I'm pregnant!! (Yes, you may do a dance of joy!)

I've told many people I talk to on a daily basis, and so it seems like there are FEW people in the world who DON'T know my news....So I've decided to just "out" myself.

I've been feeling extremely nauseous lately, and at times worried that I'd lose it completely, but so far, I've been able to maintain. (The only thing that's keeping me from having full-blown morning sickness is when I eat. I SWEAR, by the end of this pregnancy I'm going to be a circle!) My pants are already causing problems, and I'm only seven weeks along!! I may have to make my own clothes, just to keep myself covered!! *snicker*

So if I'm not on, posting, or visiting you as much, you'll know why....it's not that I don't love you, it's that I'm trying to get some sleep, and maintain my composure!

It's in the Air

I'm SO excited, my absolute favorite time of the year is coming!! The cool breezes blow through. The leaves slowly change from brilliant green to a greenish-yellow, eventually changing to beautiful colors. The kids all leave their parents, tears in their anxious eyes, while their parents exchange joyful smiles. School supplies fill our shopping carts. Harvesting is happening, making for some very yummy meals.

Fall is nearly here!!

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Oh, and I was going to share a funny story, but Carrie beat me to it!! Read it, and enjoy!! This lady's pretty funny!!

Clothes, Pillows, Tent, Sleeping bags, Toiletries...

I think my excitement is getting to me...all night long I dreamed about our upcoming camping trip...and new places I'll get to explore. (Although, in my dreams, the camping is a LOT nicer.) The night before we leave for a trip I'm always awake at 5:30 am, remembering things that I still need to pack, and that I DON'T want to forget...today's wake up call?? Sanitary napkins! :P

Well, I've dinked around on the computer enough for today. I will be back on Monday, but may not post anything until Wednesday. (Tuesday is Steve's birthday!)

Enjoy your Memorial Day!