Living the Unexpected Life

When Evan was a little guy he did a lot of things that drove me crazy like running out the front door at 2 when I wasn't looking or biting my on the softest part of my neck unexpectedly.  He also was the funniest guy with words and spoke at a very early age in full sentences.  I miss that crazy little boy sometimes however, I'm very much enjoying the young man he has become.  He still holds my hand through the parking lot and while we sit on a pew at church.  He asks me to tuck him in and tells me every last detail about his day at school.  He dutifully does his homework, practices his instrument, and cleans his room the same day he is asked!  What a great son.  Handsome too, right? David has always been the kindest one in our family.  He is always in tune with how people are feeling and whether or not they feel left out.  When he was a toddler he use to pat my back while I cried because I was overwhelmed with motherhood.  He'd say, "It's okay Mommy.  You are

Thought you'd all enjoy the video I shot at David's first choir concert this past Wednesday. Just click HERE Here are a few Sr. pics too!

So much has happened since I blogged last.  The most difficult being Jason's experience with shingles.  He is doing much better now thanks to all of your kind thoughts and prayers.  I don't even know how to start explaining the last 6 weeks but it turns out that we learned to appreciate all that we have and I guess that's what I want you all to know. Enjoy the moment you are living in now, enjoy your kids, enjoy being alive! Here are some random photos: We celebrated a close friend's wedding this weekend. Me all dolled up for said wedding. Olivia and Micah with The Boys My newly tiled laundry room. Work is as crazy as home but I love it. Homecoming 2016 Swap Meet- our first! There were a lot of old guys and license plates at the swap meet. Leavenworth Half Marathon Yes, I park on a pad now.  Can't ruin the floor! Senior pics were taken- soon to be shared. My new oven is amazing. Love my new kitchen

Currently I am living in a home that is far from tidy and clean. It's driving me crazy AND I start work tomorrow. I haven't had a meltdown but the boiling point is approaching. Here is a shot of our home's current state: Tomorrow everything is gonna change!  I will update soon. Btw, I haven't had kitchen sink for 2 weeks and no appliances for almost 2. What have I learned from this experience?  Well, that happiness is a mindset, that kids don't care what the house looks like as long as there is food, and my first world problems are really not problems at all.

Evan and I took off for our Utah trip two weeks ago and now I'm back home getting ready to start work on Monday.  Boo!  We had many great moments a few bad ones on the trip.  You just never know what to expect.  Evan and I had a great time on our trip- minus the car accident! I'm so exhausted from our house remodel that I can't write that well but here it goes: 1. It all started off well with a birthday bash for Aunt Linda. It had been a long time since I saw her and it felt so good to hear her voice and all of her stories. Aunt Linda's Birthday.  She loves cake btw! 2. Next came the WEDDING.  What an amazing evening getting to watch my brother marry the love of his life.  I cried during the whole ceremony thinking of how much I love Jason.  We are all so blessed to have found our other halves! I'm super sad I didn't get any photos of some of the kids.  I don't know why, but I'm sure someone out there can share a few with me. My big Br

*The summer is more than half over and I am starting to think about work again. Bummer. The good thing is our trip to UT and ID is coming up and I can pretend like school is not going to start for a good week!  I am sure my family will entertain me well and hopefully feed me yummy meals.  I love my food. *Jason and I decided to update our house this month and we have been busy making many decisions about our home.  Jason has done most of the work which I greatly appreciate. I am only detailed when it comes to music and I have no house fashion sense.  So far working with the painters, cabinet guy, floor guy, and granite company has been a good experience.  We are hoping things are all done by mid September. Our granite slab that will be cut and designed for the kitchen.  It is much prettier in real life. New appliances are rolling in!  Kristen was right, I love my top loader. The house painting was finished just this morning.  I love how bright my entry way is now. E

Dear Family- This is a short note of thanks.  I have been doing a lot of thinking about who I am and how I feel about that. Many years ago I came into this family in a different way than my siblings.  I know that I was wanted and I know that I have always belonged.  But, I have also sometimes felt different and obviously I looked different so sometimes, it was hard. Today, looking back, I realize all of those feelings and experiences made me who I am.  All of my siblings and both of my parents added to my life in a good way.  For example, I was often forced to be more outgoing and look at what I am doing now! Thank you to each of you for helping me in your own way and always at the right time.  I sometimes feel down because I don't see you as often as I would like but when we do see each other I am reminded of how your love for me has not changed.  I know that you love me.  It means so very much to me on hard days. Finally, I just want to say that I am grateful for the ha

  UPDATE IN PICTURES My new planner- Missy got me all straightened out! This is what happens the last few weeks of school. AFTER a week of summer break. My new plant- a gift to myself. Biggest Cherries Ever- this is how we start off every Summer. Going to work with Jason has perks. Birthday Boy @ 42! Cycling by Lake Wenatchee Baptisms in the Columbia River Temple Summer Goal: Run the loop once every week. My first boat trip this summer. Evan finally fits into my wet suit. Evan's early birthday gift- yes, we are crazy. Enjoying my long runs with this fancy water belt.  Yes, I look like a nerd. The boys worked and purchased a new WiiU together. VanderSluis 2016 Cleveringa's came to visit for the 4th. Add caption OTHER FUN FACTS: David has a new job at the public pool teaching swim lessons.  I have heard from several people now that he is a natural. Evan is stil