Alright, I give in! 25 Random Bleger Facts

Man, and I thought high school was bad! Bloggy peer pressure is the worst. And it's all imagined! "Look at their posts. They're all doing this post. Why aren't you doing it?" And so, in an attempt to quiet the blog voices in my head, here are 25 Random Bleger Facts!

1. I (Tiffany) share my middle name, Lynn, with my mom and dad.

2. Jerome's full name should actually be Jean-Jerome Joseph Bleger Le Fier de Bras. Le Fier de Bras means "the pride of the arms". Don't ask why - it's a weird French thing...

3. We LOVE watching sports on TV - even the smallest ones!

4. SkippyJon Jones is our current favorite book. We now call our children Princess Fluffernutter, Miss Kittenbritches, and Little Crumb Cake. If you haven't read the book, you need to. I don't care if you have kids or not. You need to read the book!

5. Every day when we drive by Joe's (a local coffee shop) on the way to the sitter's house, Madison asks me, "Momma, want coffee today?" Should it scare me that my children also know all the employees of aforementioned coffee shop by name?

6. Poop is a notorious subject in our household. Just don't ask... it's safer that way!

7. Both Jerome & I have birth marks, but none of our kids do.

8. We often turn on the ipod after dinner & dance in the kitchen while doing the dishes.

9. We have the only small kids in Durango who ask for green chili & salsa (I'm convinced of this).

10. We are addicted to hot-air ballooning.

11. Our parents were told at birth that Jerome & I probably would not live.

12. Katrina & Violet were both surprises. Madison was the only one we actually planned. Funny, huh? You get what you ask for!

13. All three girls have flowers in their names - Katrina Rose, Madison Lily, Violet Rae. It wasn't intentional... at first...

14. One of our cousins was Miss France. She was recently barred from wearing her sash and crown for six months for posing half-nude.

15. All of us like seafood.

16. All of us are extremely ticklish, but I'm the only one who can control it when being tickled.

17. The Dinner Nazi (that's me) refuses to allow the rest of the family to succumb to the evils of the Palmer Household & have breakfast for dinner.

18. In the opinion of our children, there is nothing worse than getting your face washed.

19. Jerome loves to make up random words and see if he can get the girls to repeat them.

20. Favorite Phrases:

Tiffany: For serious?

Jerome: What do you mean?

Katrina: What did you say? (she's pretending to be hard of hearing to avoid chores)

Madison: NO (or some variation...)

Violet: abbadspbttt (not sure what that one means yet)

21. Katrina walks on her tippy-toes. The only time she doesn't is when we threaten her.

22. I can guarantee that I will hear two questions every morning: Who's coming over and are we going to church? Can you tell we like to be around our friends?

23. Katrina has inherited her daddy's ability to memorize things. She already has more Bible verses memorized than I do.

24. We have close to 50,000 sports cards in the basement. I have no idea what we are going to do with them.

25. The girls think it's really funny to steal clean underwear from Mom & Dad and run around the house with it on their heads. I know, I know... they're going to need therapy later!

These really are the most random things I could think of. Hopefully, there was at least one that you didn't know.

Thankful Thursday... Our Amazing Home Group!

Every Thursday, this crazy bunch of people invades our house, terrorizes our cats, systematically puts EVERY toy on the floor, and raids our fridge. And, every week, we welcome them back with open arms and look forward to the next Thursday. Are we crazy? Yes! Do we absolutely love these amazing people who come to our home group every week? Yes! And so, this week is dedicated to those wonderful families that have blessed our lives in ways they will never understand.


To the Palmers:

What an honor to call you friends. You have been there through so much. You have seen us at our worst, and our best. You consistently challenge us to strive toward righteousness in ALL things, to honor God above ALL else. Your children are a joy, your friendship priceless. You are amazing, & we love you!


To the Randols:

I still vividly remember your first night at our house. What an amazing road Papa has walked you down since that night. You are our examples of perseverance, of faith, of honoring God in everything. You consistently give, not because you have to, but out of your desire to please God & love on others. Thank you for giving unselfishly, and encouraging us down that same path.


To the Dendys:

Oh, our twins! Only God could have planned two separate families to be so alike in so many ways! Your joy of life is so spontaneous, so catching. Even when life's struggles are weighing on you, you still take time to minister to others. What a testimony you are to God's miraculous works, His love of adoption, His presence in the midst of trials. You trust, even in the middle of the storm. That trust is not common.


To the Richards:

You ARE a redemption story - a testimony to fulfilling promises. We strive to make our marriage more like yours - unconditional love, unselfish desire for the other person. You are both so gentle in spirit, yet so strong. People are drawn to you because of those things. I firmly believe that God has a greater calling & purpose for you both in your marriage. I cannot wait to see where He takes you, because I know it will be incredible.


To Mike D:

I admire your optimism. No matter what situation you are in, you can find the silver lining. Not many people are capable of that - it is a gift. You can be serious & thought-provoking when needed, but will let loose & have fun when you can. That is a balancing act that requires skill! We love your stories, your ideas, your passion for life. There is a greater testimony that will come out of your struggles right now - I don't know the details, but I do trust that God can take these lemons and make lemonade! Thank you for joining us for dinner these last few weeks - all of us look forward to our time with "Uncle Mike"!




To the Millicans:

Jenni & Josalyn, the only way I can describe you is sweet. You have both been through more junk than two precious people deserved, and yet your outlook on life is so positive. You are tenacious, a fighter. But you know that your battle is not with the flesh, but the spirit. And so, you fight in the spirit. Thank you for all the encouragement you have given us - your kind words mean the world to all who are blessed to know you.




To the Belins:

Ester & the girls - what an amazing bunch! Esther, you are such an amazing mom! You fight for your daughters, both in the physical & on your knees. You are so strong. It was such a treat the night you shared your "Christian" heritage - the love of family, both physical & spiritual, is so important to you. You are a missionary to the college, and I have no doubt that, one day before our Saviour, He will introduce you to all the people that are in the kingdom because of your influence. You are influential, and you have taught your girls that as well!




To the Hoyts:

You two are perfect for each other! I love watching the friendship between you develop. You are always looking for a way to have fun & make other people laugh. You have loved and continue to love all the crazy children that attack you, and are always willing to pour into their lives. You care so deeply for the people you love - I think that when people really get to know you both, they realize just how much you do love. Thank you for sharing in our quirkyness - it fun to have other "weird" people around!



To the Krupas:

Thank you for FINALLY coming to our group! We are so blessed to have you in our lives. It has been such a joy to get to know the amazing wife that God had planned for Mike, because you two truly are a perfect fit! You are both great examples of true servants - people who consistently place the needs of others before their own. Thank you for the love you give our children - the girls love to see "Poopa & Miss Stepany". You have a wisdom that exceeds your years - don't be afraid to use it!



To the Klines:

What great friends God chose to place in our lives. You are prayer warriors - unafraid to storm the doors of heaven with every need. You speak truth with discernment, and are able to give the perfect word of encouragement. Your presence is like a breath of fresh air - always refreshing & life-giving. You persevere through the storms, but are unafraid to share with others that you are in a storm - that transparency is unusual. I am delighted to see where God is going to take you next - it's gonna be big!



To the Beachs:

Yes, I know - they haven't actually shown up on Thursday nights yet. But, there are bonds that go beyond the physical with this family. You are a serving, loving family. You actively look for a need, then figure out how to meet it. You don't just sit around waiting for someone else to tell you. You have been through so much as a family, and you fight as a family. This is a tight-knit bunch! It is unusual these days to see a family with older children who are so respectful of their parents. That type of respect takes a lot of dedication. Thanks for being an example of successful parenting to the rest of us!

We are so honored to have you all in our home every week. Every Thursday, as I write my Thankful Thursday post, I look forward to the evening I am blessed to share with good friends. You all have taught us so much - about life, love, friendship, honor, service, family, prayer, devotion, God. Thank you, my friends!

My Armor

Ephesians 6:10-18

10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.

I do not think it is a coincidence that this is the scripture that appeared yesterday when I opened my blog. My family is in a battle right now for literally the life of one of us. And, I need the reminder that our battle is not against the flesh. It is against the enemy of our souls. I feel weakest when my family is attacked. But, I know that HE can make me strong. I know I have been given the armor that is undefeatable, the protection that is resolute. I have been given every tool necessary to fight - I just need to use it.

And, when I have done everything else, I will stand.

Adventures in Madisonland

I think they should have build a theme park. Call it Madisonland. The food stands would only sell juice, lime-shrimp ramen noodles, and candy. The soundtrack in every ride would be, "no...I no like it... I go potty, I get candy... we go to church... I go to Jo's house... I like Papa Jim ... what's that truck say..." There would be a special ride called the Molars, in which you get to ride the emotional roller coaster of cutting teeth with Madison. But, maybe, that's just me...

Seriously, Madison is really funny to be around, most of the time. She loves to laugh & be silly, and this weekend was no exception.

Adventure #1: Hair

Saturday morning, we took the girls for a hair cut. Katrina loves Miss Ronda, loves the chair, loves getting her hair cut. Madison... not so much. I have been trimming her bangs because I didn't want to subject my amazing hairdresser to the wonders of my daughter. But, we decided to give it a try. I got tired of the screaming, morning and night, as we tried to brush her hair.

So, here is Madison with her bribery. Yes, this is one of those things you swear, before kids, that you'll never do.

The amazing, wonderful, Miss Ronda cutting her hair. Yes, we did save some of the ringlets.

And, presenting, Miss Too Big For My Britches, complete with a new haircut. We survived, with no tears! She absolutely loved it, and made sure everyone at church on Sunday knew she had gotten her hair cut.

Adventure #2: Dinner

Saturday night's dinner consisted of steak, fish, rice and veggies. I had no idea what, if anything, Madison was going to eat. She had been riding her emotional roller coaster all day. She ate a little steak (it was kind of hard to chew), a little fish, all of her rice (no surprise there), and ALL OF HER CARROTS! Hallelujah, the child ate veggies. She liked them so much, she asked for seconds, then thirds, etc. She then told us, and I quote, "I like carrots. Carrots are my best friend." Should I be concerned that my child is that close to her carrots? Perhaps too much veggietales?

Adventure #3: Breakfast

Breakfast Sunday morning for the "big" girls consisted of powdered donuts and granola bars. I know, not the healthiest, but sometimes you have to pick your battles. Well, Madi ate all of her donuts, wanted more, then got mad when informed that there were no more. Instead of eating her granola bar, which she asked for, she waited until Katrina turned her back, then STOLE her sister's donuts off her plate! I told Madison to put them back, which made Madison mad and got Kat's attention. Katrina yelled at her sister, Madi cried because she got caught, and the only thing Jerome & I could do was turn our backs and giggle uncontrollably. Once we were done laughing & crying, we were able to tell Madi that, no, it is not okay to steal food from your sister.

Like I said before - a new theme park - Adventures in Madisonland. Only our family...

The Champion

This post is so long in coming, its not even funny. But, before we begin - a little mental exercise. Close your eyes. Ok, now open them, because you won't be able to read anything else unless you do. Picture, if you will, Queen. No, not the lady in England, but the power rock band. Remember the song "We are the Champions"? Yes, I know that it's now stuck in your head. Remember this song, and all its emotions, as you continue reading.

My sweet, sweet husband has a problem. At first, I didn't think much of it. I thought he could stop whenever he wanted. We dealt with it on and off while dating, and as newlyweds, but it never seemed to cause an issue. At times, I have actually encouraged this problem, I will admit. I thought he was just having fun, you know, being "one of the guys". But, lately, this problem has gotten worse. Like I said, I thought he could stop. I now realize that my husband has a serious addiction. Does anyone know a 12-step program for...

FANTASY FOOTBALL?

Ok, ok, so I was totally teasing in the last paragraph, lest anyone call the Betty Ford Clinic on my behalf. But seriously, the man LOVES fantasy football. He watches the training camp news with bated breath all spring & summer, waiting for pre-season to finally start. The first day of pre-season, he is positively giddy. He then spends the next four weeks pouring over every fantasy report, magazine, and website he can get his hands on, all in search of the elusive "sleeper". Personally, these "sleepers", to me, sound like either a terrorist cell or a really lazy player, but, like I said, that's just me. He spends hours (I'm convinced) at the office, discussing defenses and wide receivers with the other addicts. You see, before he entered the black hole that is Coldwell Banker, he was not this bad. He played, but didn't live it. Now, he spends from August to January refreshing the injury reports from ESPN, in the desperate hope that he will get the news before everyone else.

Do you want to know what the worst part of all this is? The worst part is that I can no longer harass him about it. Why? Because he WON his league! Here is my giddy husband, holding his huge and hideously ugly trophy, along with the engraving on the side that will declare to eternity that, in 2008, Jerome's Walkers Texas Rangers won the Durango Fantasy League.

The night he brought home this lovely piece of artwork, I got to hear many renditions of "We Are the Champions". He taught it to the girls. They all danced. I laughed. And now, because of "league rules" (whatever, league rules, I know it's just an excuse), he HAS to participate in the league again next year. Oh well, I guess I can't complain too much. For once, his addiction paid off to the tune of a handy cash sum that allowed us to pay off some bills. I know, I know, exciting use of winnings, but, hey, we are in a recession people!

Seriously, though, it was fun to see my husband's amazing ability to memorize sports facts come in handy. And I am proud of him, even though I tease him about it. Because, now, he's in a funk until baseball season starts. He's pacifying himself with pro hoops fantasy leagues until the real thing comes around again. Pray for me, please. Because I know he's going to be that much worse about it next year!

P.S. I would like to mention that, the night of the draft for the aforementioned league, Jerome texted me. He wanted to know if he should draft Westbrook. I told him absolutely, he's a steady, consistent, proven receiver (shout out to Q). He then texted back that he didn't know, what about this player? I responded, "If you don't want to hear my advice, don't ask for it." He chose Westbrook. Westbrook put up a lot of points for him. So, who is worse? Him for playing fantasy football, or me for getting upset when he debated my draft recommendations? Because I'm not bad about football at all... GO CARDINALS!

Thankful Thursday...the journey

This Thursday, I feel that I have so much to be truly grateful for. I have been learning so much lately about the character of God. I hope I never stop learning. So, today, I am thankful for this journey my Daddy has been taking me on lately, because...

I was the square peg in the round hole!

Ever since I accepted Christ, this is how I have felt about my "quiet time", "devotionals", or whatever you call it. Essentially, quality time with Daddy. I have not been a morning person since I was six. And yet, I have heard numerous people say that morning is the best time to do devotionals. I have counseled numerous people that this was the best time to study the Word, as you are fresher, not bogged down by the day, etc. And so, I have tried to force myself to do this, with no luck. I have felt like I've been beating my head against a brick wall, and beating myself up for a "simple" spiritual discipline that "everyone" else did just fine. Now, I know that is not the truth, but, as with any other struggle, that is exactly what Satan wants you to believe.

Jerome has teased me since our wedding about my ability to stay awake all night reading. When 10PM hits in our house, I know it's time to take the sleepy boy to bed. He has been known to fall asleep while praying at night. He gets up to run with a bunch of other crazy men at 5AM. He likes morning. I do not. On the other hand, I can stay awake a lot longer than he, and usually do. And so, I had a revelation in the last few weeks. It was as if God said, "How did I create you? Why are you trying to fit yourself into someone else's mold? Why not try mine?"

What a revelation! I can be who God created me to be, in all aspects of my life. Who cares if others do their devotions in the morning - it doesn't mean that I have to! The last few weeks have been so refreshing, so alive. After Jerome goes to sleep, Daddy and I can spend time reading, learning, talking. I have finally found the benefit to being an insomniac!

For the Saunders...please pray!

I know I have a few "lurkers" and readers that do not follow our dear pastor Linn's blog. I have wanted to post about what has been going on this week, and to ask you to plead in prayer for them with me, but I simply did not know where to start. My heart is so heavy, and so hurting for this family, that I couldn't even begin to write.

Wednesday morning I received a call at 7:15 AM from Linn. When she answered, she was so hysterical I could barely understand her. Their home was on fire. She had gotten all the kids out of the house, but couldn't get diapers for the little ones. For those of you who do not know, they have 9 children, both by birth and adoption, with 6 of them at home. Her husband Dwight was about an hour away at a pastor's retreat. We live nearby, so as I quickly grabbed diapers, wipes, whatever I could think of, Jerome & the girls began praying.

The day was filled with frantic emails & phone calls as the news spread. Praise God, everyone is safe, but they believe they have lost most of their belongings. The damage to their home is extensive, but they believe it is repairable. They are now beginning the process of sifting through what is left of their belongings, a task I cannot even imagine.

And, when the timing couldn't be worse, their son Graham had to be rushed into emergency surgery yesterday for acute appendicitis. He is recovering well, but this dear family is beyond what they can handle. I know God's word says that He will not give us more than we can handle, but I can't imagine much more than this.

Two fellow bloggers, Lori and Lydsey, dear friends of the Saunders, have built a blog dedicated to updates about the family. They are also using this blog as a way for people to communicate how amazing this family is. You can go there for updates, and to leave encouragement for the family. They have also set up a ChipIn account for people across the nation and the world to be able to give to this family. Lurkers, this is the time to come out of hiding! This family could use all the support and prayer you can give. Please pray especially for the children - they are mourning the loss of their beloved possessions - blankies, stuffed animals, etc. Two of their precious family, Elizabeth & Elijah, just came home to them from Uganda right before Christmas.

Thank you, my dear friends & family, for lifting up this family with us.

Thankful Thursday...

This poem has been emailed to me a few times, but it never loses it poignancy. I keep it on my computer to remind me of just how much I truly have.

I AM THANKFUL:
FOR THE WIFE
WHO SAYS IT'S HOT DOGS TONIGHT, BECAUSE SHE IS HOME WITH ME, AND NOT OUT WITH SOMEONE ELSE.

FOR THE HUSBAND
WHO IS ON THE SOFA BEING A COUCH POTATO, BECAUSE HE IS HOME WITH ME AND NOT OUT AT THE BARS.

FOR THE TEENAGER

WHO IS COMPLAINING ABOUT DOING DISHES BECAUSE IT MEANS SHE IS AT HOME, NOT ON THE STREETS.

FOR THE TAXES I PAY

BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM EMPLOYED .

FOR THE MESS TO CLEAN AFTER A PARTY

BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN SURROUNDED BY FRIENDS.

FOR THE CLOTHES THAT FIT A LITTLE TOO SNUG

BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE ENOUGH TO EAT.

FOR MY SHADOW THAT WATCHES ME WORK

BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM OUT IN THE SUNSHINE

FOR A LAWN THAT NEEDS MOWING, WINDOWS THAT NEED CLEANING, AND GUTTERS THAT NEED FIXING

BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE A HOME

FOR ALL THE COMPLAINING I HEAR ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT

BECAUSE IT MEANS WE HAVE FREEDOM OF SPEECH.

FOR THE PARKING SPOT I FIND AT THE FAR END OF THE PARKING LOT

BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM CAPABLE OF WALKING AND I HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH TRANSPORTATION .

FOR MY HUGE HEATING BILL

BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM WARM.

FOR THE LADY BEHIND ME IN CHURCH WHO SINGS OFF KEY

BECAUSE IT MEANS I CAN HEAR.

FOR THE PILE OF LAUNDRY AND IRONING

BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE CLOTHES TO WEAR.

FOR WEARINESS AND ACHING MUSCLES AT THE END OF THE DAY

BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN CAPABLE OF WORKING HARD.

FOR THE ALARM THAT GOES OFF IN THE EARLY MORNING HOURS

BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM ALIVE.

AND I AM THANKFUL:

FOR THE CRAZY PEOPLE I WORK WITH

BECAUSE THEY MAKE WORK INTERESTING AND FUN!

AND FINALLY, FOR TOO MUCH E-MAIL (and blogs to read)

BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE FRIENDS WHO ARE THINKING OF ME.

Cousins!

Christmas Day, my brother Kevin, his wife Crystal, and their three children, Riley, age 14, Hayden, age 10, and Katie, age 7, drove down from Grand Junction to see the Durango family. They had to drive over three mountain passes in a white-out to do it, but they made it safely. It was really fun getting to hang out with our siblings, nephews, and niece and see how much they've grown. This was their introduction to Violet as well, since we haven't been able to get together since she was born. All in all, it was a wonderful couple of days spend with some very precious family.

Enjoying the new bowling alley in Ignacio - Jerome won the first game & Kevin won the second

Playing Halo 3 together. It took Madison all weekend, but she finally warmed up to Uncle Kevin.

Katie & Violet

Hayden & Violet - He is normally such a "tough" guy - it was fun to see his softer side come out with his baby cousin.

Katrina was far too busy, by the way, running around totally crazy with her cousins to be bothered by photo ops.

Thankful Thursday...On Sunday?

I know, I know... I am so late it isn't even funny! I completely missed Christmas & New Year's, and I'm three days late this week. Well, better late than never, right? I have spent much of the last few weeks reminiscing over the last year. I have been so humbled by God's provision, mercy, and grace over the last 14 months. I feel like I have grown more in the last year in my walk with God than I have in the last 11. It never ceases to amaze me the lengths that Daddy has to go through to get me past my stubborn nature. And yet, for all the good, bad, and the ugly, I would not trade this year for anything!

Our "year" actually began on November 2, 2007, when our precious Violet was born. What a surprise her pregnancy was! Only 7 months after Madison was born, I was pregnant again! But what a gift she has been. Her birth was divinely ordained for such a time as this - I can't wait to see where God takes her next!

Our Christmas picture from 2007, taken by our friend Roxanne Vargas.

In January, we took a family trip to Paris with our great friend/babysitter extraordinaire Katie Swartzman. You might say we were crazy, taking 3 children under the age of 5 on a transatlantic flight. Yes, yes we are! But I would not trade the memories for the world! Here we are on the top of the Eiffel Tower.

Feeding the birds in a little park next to the Seine River.


Relaxing in the apartment. How the children have grown in a year!


Yes, I was crazy to take a 2 month old to France! But even more crazy to take Madison, who wasn't walking yet, and just as stubborn then as she is now!


Our family at Disneyland Paris. Such a great day, with so many fun memories with the girls!


By far, Kat's favorite part of the trip - getting to meet Cinderella!



She looks so little in this picture!


And Madison is so little, too - still a baby.

Shortly after our Paris trip, we decided that I needed to go to work to help with our family's finances. God opened an opportunity for me to work at my parents' office. I was there part time until September, when I started full-time. We have learned so much humility (how do you tell your parents that you want to work for them?) and grace (parents that still love you even when you have to admit that you've royally screwed up). We have seen God provide, financially, emotionally, and spiritually, in ways that we would not have imagined. And His ideas for provision are so much cooler than ours! We have seen Jerome's business go from losing 6 deals in 3 months to having a home under contract that was only on the market for 2 weeks! We have had friends come alongside us to watch our children so that I can work (many, many, many thanks to all of you). We have had friends, family, and mentors pray for us continually. We made it through 10 months with no real estate sales, and God provided. Such a great time to be alive!

Violet during 4th of July celebrations - what a party animal!



The Blegers terrorize Indiana! Cousin Michael got married October 4, so we ALL flew TOGETHER (thanks Mama) for the celebration. And we're all still alive! Seriously, it was a great trip, and so wonderful to watch the girls with their great-grandpa. He is so precious & loving, just like his daughter.


Madison & Papa at a Tucker family wedding in October.


The princess & the King! he, he, he... I only say "King" because we are constantly reminding the older princesses that Mommy is Queen of the Castle!


The infamous poop night! If you missed that post, click here and prepare to laugh until you pee your pants. I will NEVER forget that night.


Our 2008 family picture, taken in October by my daddy. While Mom did really silly, embarrassing things to get the grandkids to smile. They never did that for us. They threatened... yeah, again, good to be the grandkid!





Violet's 1st birthday party! Such a little princess!

The Tucker/Bleger family trip to Phoenix for Thanksgiving. Violet got to meet that family, including the great-grandparents, and we got to wear shorts! God is good!

They still love the ears, even after a year. And now, Violet actually likes to wear them.

They're big enough now to perform in the Christmas program at church.

All in all, this has been an amazing year. Filled with joy, heartache, praise, prayer, miracles,tears, laughter, family, friends, frustrations, fears, provision, and trust. I believe that is the most important lesson I have learned this year - trust. I CAN trust Daddy! Thank you , my friends, for sharing in this year with me, for walking with our family, for holding us up in prayer, for laughing with us, for sharing life. I am honored, and looking forward to what God has in store for 2009. It's gotta be good!

Bragging Mama

Yeah, yeah, I know. I've missed THREE Thankful Thursdays in a row now. The world is going to stop spinning on its axis and fall into darkness. No, not really, but I am shocked that I have missed this many weeks. Well, I do have Christmas and New Year's as excuses, but I've got nothing for yesterday. Other than the normal Thursday chaos that is our home. And the studying for my test on Saturday. Anyways, I will get to my normal thankful post hopefully this weekend, but I have a really cool idea for it that will require the commandeering of Jerome's laptop for a while. So, instead, you'll have to deal with a little bit of my bragging...





When we decided to put Katrina in school this fall, I was a little nervous about whether or not she was really ready. Socially, I knew she was, but I wasn't sure where she would fall academically. She could not read, and could not identify most of her letters or numbers. I knew that there were a lot of her classmates who could write their names, read a little, etc. I know she is a lot like me, very strong-willed, but so eager to please people.





She has done so well since August. She is now reading small books on her own, can write her name, can identify all her letters and numbers up to 20, and is excelling beyond my expectations. She absolutely loves school, loves her teacher, and loves reminding her little friends that Jesus wants to be their friend, too. It is so reassuring to my heart. As my friend Jill posted a while ago, it can be intimidating to stand firmly for where you believe God has called you, and to defend that calling, especially in regards to your children. And, we know that God has called Katrina to this school for this time. Will she be in public schools all 12 years? Who knows? But for now, I rest in the knowledge that God has placed her, and our family, in this school for this time. Why? I may not know on this side of heaven, but that's ok.





Ok, off my soap box! So, here is the beautiful little example that she brought home last night that truly showed me just how far she has come. And all the little quirks that come with raising a "lefty" (Daddy & I are "rightys").

In case you need a translation, the correct answers are:

lemon, cherry, 7, 6, 14

I love how she writes her e upside-down & backwards, and how her a is backwards as well. Things I never thought about as a righty. Thanks for letting me brag a little - I love my princess!

Things I've done...

The things I've done are in bold. What have you done? Repost it to your blog, then leave me a note so I can see your adventures! Here's mine.

01. Bought everyone in the bar a drink
02. Swam with dolphins
03. Climbed a mountain
04. Taken a Ferrari for a test drive
05. Been inside the Great Pyramid
06. Held a tarantula
07. Taken a candlelit bath with someone
08. Said “I love you” and meant it
09. Hugged a tree
10. Bungee jumped
11. Visited Paris
12. Watched a lightning storm at sea
13. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise
14. Seen the Northern Lights
15. Gone to a huge sports game
16. Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa
17. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
18. Touched an iceberg
19. Slept under the stars
20. Changed a baby’s diaper
21. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon
22. Watched a meteor shower
23. Gotten drunk on champagne
24. Given more than you can afford to charity
25. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
26. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment
27. Had a food fight
28. Bet on a winning horse
29. Asked out a stranger
30. Had a snowball fight
31. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can
32. Held a lamb
33. Seen a total eclipse
34. Ridden a roller coaster
35. Hit a home run (if softball counts)
36. Danced like a fool and didn’t care who was looking
37. Adopted an accent for an entire day
38. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment
39. Had two hard drives for your computer
40. Visited all 50 states
41. Taken care of someone who was drunk
43. Danced with a stranger in a foreign country
44. Watched whales
42. Had amazing friends
45. Stolen a sign
46. Backpacked in Europe
47. Taken a road-trip
48. Gone rock climbing
49. Taken a midnight walk on the beach
50. Gone sky diving
51. Visited Ireland
52. Been heartbroken longer than you were actually in love
53. In a restaurant, sat at a stranger’s table and had a meal with them
54. Visited Japan
55. Milked a cow
56. Alphabetized your CDs (and DVD's, and...)
57. Pretended to be a superhero
58. Sung karaoke
59. Lounged around in bed all day
60. Played touch football
61. Gone scuba diving
62. Kissed in the rain
63. Played in the mud
64. Played in the rain
65. Gone to a drive-in theater
66. Visited the Great Wall of China
67. Started a business
68. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken
69. Toured ancient sites
70. Taken a martial arts class
71. Played D&D for more than 6 hours straight (heck no!)
72. Gotten married
73. Been in a movie
74. Crashed a party
75. Gotten divorced
76. Gone without food for 5 days
77. Made cookies from scratch
78. Won first prize in a costume contest
79. Ridden a gondola in Venice
80. Gotten a tattoo
81. Rafted the Snake River
82. Been on a television news program as an “expert”
83. Gotten flowers for no reason
84. Performed on stage
85. Been to Las Vegas
86. Recorded music
87. Eaten shark
88. Kissed on the first date
89. Gone to Thailand
90. Bought a house
91. Been in a combat zone
92. Buried one/both of your parents
93. Been on a cruise
94. Spoken more than one language fluently
95. Performed in Rocky Horror
96. Raised children (working on it...)
97. Followed your favorite band/singer on tour
98. Passed out cold
99. Taken an exotic bicycle tour in a foreign country
100. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
101. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
102. Sang loudly in the car, and didn’t stop when you knew someone was looking with the windows open
103. Had plastic surgery
104. Survived an accident that you shouldn’t have survived
105. Wrote articles for a large publication
106. Lost over 100 pounds
107. Held someone while they were having a flashback
108. Piloted an airplane
109. Touched a stingray
110. Broken someone’s heart (so he said...)
111. Helped an animal give birth
112. Won money on a TV game show
113. Broken a bone
114. Gone on an African photo safari
115. Had a facial part pierced other than your ears
116. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol (yes, oh yes...like the guns...)
117. Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild
118. Ridden a horse
119. Had major surgery
120. Had a snake as a pet
121. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
122. Slept for 30 hours in a 48 hour period
123. Visited more foreign countries than U.S. States
124. Visited all 7 continents
125. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days
126. Eaten kangaroo meat
127. Eaten sushi
128. Had your picture in the newspaper
129. Changed someone’s mind about something you care deeply about
130. Gone back to school
131. Parasailed
132. Touched a cockroach (again, heck no!)
133. Eaten fried green tomatoes
134. Read The Iliad and The Odyssey
135. Selected one “important” author who you missed in school, and read
136. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
137. Skipped all your school reunions (no way - it was too much fun!)
138. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language
139. Been elected to public office
140. Written your own computer language
141. Thought to yourself that you’re living your dream
142. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
143. Built your own PC from parts
144. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn’t know you
145. Had a booth at a street fair
146. Dyed your hair
147. Been a DJ
148. Shaved your head
149. Caused a car accident
150. Saved someone’s life

New's Years Day - Sledding Insanity!

Our great friends, Ryan & Sommer Randol, invited all of us to their home in Mancos on New Year's Day for sledding & chili. We drove into the mountains above their house, then Ryan pulled us to the sledding hill behind his 4-wheeler. The snow was about 2 feet deep where we were sledding, which made for very interesting walking with the children. We had a grand time sledding, throwing snowballs, and shooting guns... oh, come on, its the Randols. Did you actually think we would go into the woods without shooting something? We then all went back to the Randols and enjoyed Sommer's homemade chili with all the fixings. All in all, it was a very fun day!

Violet's first real snow experience - what is this cold stuff?

Madison enjoying a little snack in the snow. As long as she had food, she was fine.

Daddy & Violet getting ready to sled.

Katrina got to ride on the toboggan behind the 4-wheeler with the other "big" girls. She had a blast, and was such a trooper. She hiked through snow above her hips for most of the afternoon.

Ryan & Sommer's youngest, Sean. He is almost 4 months old, and is, obviously, not easily fussed. He just lounged around in his carrier, admiring the scenery.

The crew - obviously Madi did not appreciate the photo op.

Only Ryan, Mike, Sommer, & Tiffany would go sledding and take an infant carrier, a camo diaper bag, and enough firearms to form a militia. Sleds & guns - what a great combination!

Ryan & Sommer, our amazing hosts - they always make everything a fun adventure!

Madi still did not appreciate the photo opp.

Violet, Celine & Tiff resting inbetween hikes.

Christmas Morning

After spending Christmas Eve with Jerome's family, we drove out to my parents' ranch to spend the night with my parents. It was snowing fairly hard when we left town, and by the time we got to the house it was fairly deep. Needless to say, we got stuck in their driveway. But, we got everybody up to the house & asleep so that we could party Christmas morning!

Violet crawled around with this piece of wrapping paper stuck to her hair for about a half hour while we were opening presents.

Katrina modeling her new Cinderella dress. She loved it!

Madison opening her new baby doll that actually pees after you give her a bottle. Gee, thanks Grandma...

Papa snuggling with Violet.

"I got binocolers, Mama." She thinks they take pictures.

Myself & Madison watching "Old" Grandma open her presents.

Violet & Madison eating cereal while waiting for Papa's quiches to finish warming up. Only these girls could get away with pouring cereal all over my mother's floor and not get in trouble. Must be nice to be the grandkid...

Violet enjoying some quality time with "Old" Grandma.

The big girls opening their stockings, and we enjoyed a rare moment of sibling cooperation. They can be nice!

Opening presents is hard work!