Wait....Search....Wait.....Wait Some More

We continue to search for houses, we have found one that we are in love with.  We have seen the inside and we have talked with a banker about funding.  Now we Wait!!!  Our house is still on the market and there does not seem to be anyone interested in it.  It's hard to not get frustrated and discouraged.  I keep telling myself that it's fine and that what will be will be, but it's not working often. Here is the house that we would dream of having.......one day......if it's meant to be.

November Thankful

Week 2 Nov. 8th through 14th

Day 8: I am thankful for the ability to drive and have a reliable vehicle that gets me where I need to be.  I think that this is one thing that we take for advantage of. 

Day 9:  I am thankful for my Mother In Law.  I am super lucky to have such a great extended family.  She has accepted me coming in and has been just as understanding about my moods and personality as her son has been.

Day 10: I am super thankful for Regan.  He is my father and dad and the best one there is.  He stepped in after he met my mother like we were his own born children.  Love and discipline it didn't matter.  He has been super involved in supporting me as I have grown and has been a big part of who I am.

Day 11:  I am thankful for my furry children, Daisy and Precious.  Although there are days that I don't seem to be thankful I am.  They have been there when I felt like there was no one there.
    

Day 12:  I am thankful for nap time!  I am an adult who loves/needs naps.  I am super bummed when my son decides not take naps because I can not nap.  My world will change when he quits naps all together.  Naps allow me to refresh.  For some reason I have always been the person to want to take a nap.  When bored I would rather nap than find something to do.

Day 13:  I am thankful for Pumpkin Spice Lattes from Starbucks!  They clearly do not like me because I believe that I could loose 10 lbs if I just stopped drinking them.  But, oh the flavor, I dream about it.  I crave it, I beg for it.  It's one thing that I can't get enough of.  Yum Yum Yum


Day 14:  I'm Thankful for my Aunt Connie!  She has been my second mother for many years.  She has helped raise me and shape me to who I am today.  Thanks Aunt Connie for being there for our family!

Thankful for November

Week One: Nov. 1st through Nov. 7th

I have decided to do this in weekly increments do to time sake.  I know I would not remember to log in daily. :-) 

Day One:  Today I am thankful for my family.  Immediate, extended and beyond!!  Without them and the support they provide to me and my family each and everyday I am not sure where I (we) would be.  Verbal, nonverbal, all kinds of support fills our hearts and we could not be more blessed with this support that has strengthened us.
 

Day Two:  Thankful for the two men in my life.  They both entered my life so quickly I'm still not sure how the last four years of my life has happened.  First Curtis, the one that can handle me, MOST of the time.  He is patient with me, gets me, frustrates me, excites me, challenges me, and loves me.  He is someone I am proud to be in their life and Proud to say he is in mine.  Second came along Bentley.  Wasn't really ready for him but couldn't be happier with where he has taken me in my journey of life.  He also knows how to comfort me and challenge me in ways I never knew a 2 year old could do.  He lights up my heart everytime he smiles and the excitement he has for life is so refreshing.  Love you both so much!

Day Three: I'm Thankful for friends!  We may not get to spend a lot of time together, but the time we do spend is so cherished.  They get me when the world seems to not.  We can spend hours reminiscing like we never had time away from each other.  They do not judge me, even though I sometimes judge myself.  I can confide in them without fear that they would steer me in the wrong direction.  I would love to be able to spend more time with each and everyone of them, but they understand and get why sometimes that can't happen.
        
   

Day Four:  Thankful for the opportunity to be apart of Parents As Teachers!  They are a great group of ladies and I am proud to be one of them.  I enjoy working with families and bringing activities so the family can work together to strengthen their children's development.


Day Five:  Thankful for my job at Mercy because it allows me to provide for my family.  It may be stressful at times because of my schedule but it's allowed me to be flexible so I can spend my days during the week with my son.

Day Six:  Thankful for my health.  There have been several reminders to me how important my health is to me and I can not begin to tell you how lucky I have been.  I have not had many problems outside of struggling with pregnancy and I am SOO thankful!

Day Seven:  I'm thankful for TV.  I really am.  It allows me some time to just not think about the daily stresses and allows me to enter a world of fantasy.  During the couple of one hour shows I get time to watch I am able to just imagine how life could be, or be darn thankful for the life I do have.  Its my chill zone!

And the Search begins...........

Where selling our house......yep I bit the big one, I signed the paperwork, while the tears streamed my face.  I honestly couldn't tell you why the emotion suddenly emerged and engulfed me but the tears wouldn't stop falling while I took pen to paper and signed my name.  Change is my worst enemy, I don't like it one bit.  I can't see the positive side of it because all I see is the stress change brings.  However, if you want to move forward you must embrace the change.

So the night we signed paperwork we went to look at a four houses.  With that we eliminated two and kept two in our top choices.
  House One

 House Two

But that soon changed to the other option two when we went to look at this house a week later....
 New House Two

Same basic layout as House one, a little cheaper rooms are a little smaller but I'm a little drawn to this one, maybe because of the price.  We need to do a Pro/Con list of these two.  There aren't many options in our price range in Newton.  We know we want to stay in the area because our support system is in Newton.  Curt is sold on a split level home, I'm still not completely convinced however, it seems to be what I like just when I get in them I worry about storage space and living space.  Then I start to worry about the possibility of child number two and how much easier it would be with just one child....yada yada yada.....did I mention how stress I'm feeling about this whole moving thing?
We have lots of time, and we don't have to decided right away, truth is we HAVE to sell our house before we can get fully approved for the loan.  Which we have only shown it once since it went on the market two weeks ago.  The Realtors went through last Wednesday, now we just have to pray that the right family comes along.  It's a great house, if your single or a family with no children.  Or it also would be great for an older couple because everything is on one level and there is very little stairs.  So here's to the next step....wish us luck!

Nah Nah Nah

Bentley you are 27 1/2 months old, and you fill my heart with happiness.  Over the last two months I have fallen more in love with you than I ever thought possible.  I am able to enjoy your smile, your curious mind, your never ending love for others, and even your occasional tantrums.  You see, I'm ashamed to admit it but up until a couple months ago I feel I was just going through the motions with you.  Just being because I was.  That is playing the roll of a mother and wife but not finding the full enjoyment of being a mother and a wife.  This is difficult to explain to you and for right now we just won't worry about this, because I've been able to overcome this feeling and get past it.

I want to share with you a little about the happenings in your life right now.  You are growing in every way, everyday.  I am never surprised to find you doing something new wither it is the way you are playing with your toys, to what you are capable of understanding.  You currently have begun playing with your vehicles like your airplane, dump truck, bus and train.  You will go and get your people and actually play appropriately with them by putting them in their place and driving them around.  I only wonder what you are thinking when your playing this way.  You LOVE playing outside still, you always have.  You really aren't satisfied unless you get some outside play time in.  Lately you have enjoyed playing in the sprinkler, even with your clothes on.  You still enjoy playing sports however you do not seem as interested in them as you once did.  Hopefully that will change but if it doesn't that will be okay.  Daddy enjoys taking you out on the golf course and you seem to like hitting the golf ball around.  You also enjoy going to the park and the zoo with mommy. 

You have grown in using verbal language also.  Since April you have flourished in this area, however you are still hard to understand most of the time.  Family and those around you often know what you are saying but your still pretty quiet in the public's eye.  You have started to spontaneously say things which you never did in the past.  You still see Missy from AEA who comes out and plays with you and helps develop your language once a month.  You really engage with her and love all the toys she brings for you.  She has seen improvements in the amount of vocalizations you have made since about January/February.  Your speech therapist from Skiff hospital meets with you twice a week since the end of April.  So roughly three months you've been seeing her.  I'm not sure what I can say about her, its been difficult getting you to connect with her.  She seems to have great intentions but struggles with keeping your attention to things.  Recently she has changed one of your goals from learning consonant sounds to dropping back and learning sign language.  I'm having a very difficult time understanding this and agreeing that this is the best option for you.  You have improved everyday with what you communicate to me that its hard to imagine moving backwards.  After this meeting I tried to teach you the sign for no, immediately you began to tell me no, which is one of the few words you say VERY clearly.  After a couple of times you began to sign the word along with saying it and later that night I just was full of tears.  We are meeting with Missy and Amy who is AEA's speech pathologist on Wednesday, you might not go back to Skiff for speech therapy.  Which might not be a bad things.

Today actually a song came on the radio and you began to repeat a couple lines in the lyrics.  It was by far THE MOST ADORABLE thing ever! Song: Blurred Lines Lyrics: Hey Hey Hey, which come out nah, nah, nah.  And you woah after they do in the song as well.  Other things you have and can say spontaneously airplane, race car, daisy, precious, hot dog, more, please, mama, dada, grandma, grandpa, all done, open, wal-mart, snack, outside, I'm pretty sure you say chocolate for when you want chocolate milk however it doesn't even sound close but its consistent with you grabbing the container out of the fridge, there has to be more but I'm not thinking of them right now.  I plan to add to this list as I think of them.  Missy wants me to wright down all the words you say spontaneously I'm super excited to show her the list.      

You eat almost everything, but you are starting to have your dislikes, which I kind of get a kick out of.  You ALWAYS try the food for me, even if it takes some convincing, but the look on your face and how you spit out the food you don't like, it's priceless.  Some that come to mind are, peas and carrots.  It's hilarious, period.  

Potty Training........oh the joys.  It pretty much all started while we were on vacation in Florida in June.  When we had you in the shower after swimming or changing, we would encourage you to go pee, which you would 95% on command.  When we got home we continued the pursuit going as far as buying you undies.  For some reason you like to go pee both in the potty and your undies.  Needless to say, mommy does not quite have the patience for that right now, so I'm failing in the outstanding mother of the year.  We will continue to try but not force anything on you, you'll be ready when your ready.  But you do get super excited when you go potty in your potty chair.  You have even went poo poo ( sorry blog readers, I went there) twice, once with Grandma Cathi and once with Grandma Betty.  I'll try and do better at my part, you just keep up the good work buddy.  

I love you son and I can't wait to see what you will turn out to be.    

SWW

• So what I've completely messed up Bentley's nightly routine because I thought I was doing something good.  He was staying in his room all night so I took the gate down that was across his doorway.......he's been in our bed the last two nights....tonight, he won't go to sleep without Curt in the room.  Mommy FAIL!!!!
• So what something from my past that came back to my evil brain tonight might have ruined my relationship with my sister in law.  I always seem to do or say something wrong eventually.
• So what I don't feel support by my husband because of said behavior\ feelings........I guess what they say..family is thicker......oh wait I am his family now....so what he's forgotten that.
• So what I've decided to do a late late night version of so what, there's a lot on my mind tonight.
• So what I can't seem to pull the trigger on listing our house on the market, I keep finding reasons to wait.  I guess I just don't like change and the thought of change gives me so much anxiety.
• So what my son is 2 and can't tell me loves me verbally, he tells me through his eyes everyday. The new speech path wants us to step back from getting sounds out of him and teach him sign language, so what I think she's crazy and just can't bring myself to stop having my son vocalize to me , even though most if what he says we can't understand.....he's getting better everyday!
• So what I can't keep thinking of what the future holds for him, I'm only human and can't always live for today.
• So what that lately I've been feeling very alone.....
• So what I let my son play in the sprinkler with his clothes on while watering my plants.  It's one of my memories as a child getting to jump into our pool of water with our clothes one, it felt so right to do something we think is wrong.
• So what this version of so what makes me seem whiney, I'm kind of having an off night.  Goodnight everyone hope to get back on this blogger bandwagon soon!

SWW

• So what I spend 3 hours this morning sitting on the computer while my son played.  He wasn't whining, he was having fun, and I took advantage of it!   This afternoon however, I think I'm going to have to change my plan of attack.  He is loud and clear ready for mommy time! 
• So what I agreed to watch my nephew Drayton for five hours this afternoon, it's teaching Bentley that he doesn't always get his way in things.  Bentley needs more child time to learn that he needs to share and it's okay to not get everything he wants.
• So what my son was standing in the middle of his kid table before I figured out he was climbing, it's not THAT far from the ground.  
• So what we had our air on, and now it's back off, and we will probably turn it back on once it warms up again.  I've have learned over the years that it's just best to put the air on so I don't have to hear my husband complain about his "allergies", which treat him just fine when he's out on the golf course.  
• So what that while everyone will hopefully be enjoying the nice weather on memorial day, I will be sleeping it away.  I have to work the night before and it's just best for us all if I get the right amount of sleep.  Curt has to work in the evening so I need to be in mommy mood for Bentley.  
• So what that only parts of my yard has turf builder on it, while I was applying Curt was mowing and I only had so much lawn to apply the stuff to.  I'll be curious to see if it even makes a difference, and this will make it easier for me to tell! 
• So what I keep procrastinating on calling the vet to get Daisy in for her shots.  I just cringe every time we have to pay out an unneeded expense.  On top of that we are having her stay at Green Acres Boarding while we are gone to Florida and she has to have these shots before she can stay, so I need to get on it.  
• So what my currently full time job has threatened me that if I do have have the appropriate amount of PTO for my vacation that they can resign my PTO approval.  I was warned that I only have 3.70 hours of PTO, I need......72.  BIG problem there but you know, I just don't care.  I know that's a horrible way to think but I am going on that Vacation, even if it means I won't have a job when I get back.  
• So what that the boys are going on 2 hours naps, well one boy is, the other...he was a little harder to get down.  Bentley isn't used to having to share his mommy at nap time, and for some reason he won't just go and lay down for me like he does his Aunt Angie.  They must need it, I would be sleeping if I could on this rainy Wednesday afternoon too!!  

Well there you have it folks, I have started to get back into things, I'm sorry for those who have missed me, LOL all two of you that prolly read my blog.  I better get on that list that I've been procrastinating.  

Late Night reminiscing

A little over two years ago, my son, Bentley was born.  I found this little tid bit that my husband wrote while our son was in the NICU at Blank Children's Hospital (warning, this will be lengthy)

Sorry for the lack of updates from Tara and I over the last few days. We have experienced some minor bumps to the start of our baby's journey in life. Over the first few days in the hospital we, along with the nurses and doctor, observed Bentley having some abnormal eye movement. Every now and again (maybe 6-8 times a day for 5-10 seconds each) his eyes would roll up and to the back of his lids in both directions. This, along with other "twitching," was enough for the doctor to consult a physician at Blank Children s Hospital for more information. The symptoms the doctors observered and reported mimic seizures.

Bentley was transferred by ambulance to Blank Children's Hospital NICU on early Sunday afternoon while Tara was still recovering. Tara had a low blood level after her C-Section. She was feeling "weak and shaky" and required 4 bags of blood over a two day span. This delayed her discharge from Skiff till early Sunday evening, and she was without Bentley for quite a few hours. I decided to wait back with Tara so we could travel to Des Moines together after discharge. Bentley was not alone on his first road trip. Grandma Betty, Grandma Cathi, Grandpa Regan and Great Aunt Chris were right behind him. 

When Bentley arrived at Blank, the doctors and nurses noticed one of his "episodes." This was of great comfort to Tara and I. That way we didn't need to relay our observations, they had their own. Bentley was fed through a tube in his nose at first. We chose this as a means to not interrupt the learning curve of breast feeding. He was hooked up to the normal wires, and received the normal blood tests to check cultures in order to rule out infection. Bentley was also giving a lumbar puncture or as Tara calls it, a Spinal Tap. This was performed in order to check the spinal fluid and rule out Meningitis.  

  

Once Tara was discharged from Skiff, I drove her to Des Moines so we could be with Bentley. We booked at room at The Ronald McDonald House across from Methodist. This is a great asset, instead of using a pull out couch as a bed for two people. There wasn't much going on Sunday night in Bentley's room. Just a lot of observation and care. I couldn't stand seeing a tube up Bentley's nose, and the doctor had better options. We decided to use a bottle to feed the baby boy. This puts him back on an "at will" diet, and is much easier care for mommy AND Bentley. 

Monday was gonna be a day of testing. When we arrived back to Bentleys room on Monday morning, the primary physician was performing an examination. He immedietly noticed that Bentley was having Hypo-Tonia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypotonia). This was probably another symptom of the underlying diagnosis. 

Next up was an MRI. Bentley had to wear these sweet earmuffs to help keep him calm and still for the big machine. With the help of a full belly, we were told he did perfect while having this 15 minute test was performed. About an hour later, he had a scheduled EEG (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EEG). 

After Bentley headed down for the 2 hour EEG, the doctor stopped by to talk to us. He had looked at the MRI and had noticed an infarction ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infarction ) in the brain. This is basically a stroke. The doctor says this happens in 25 of every 100,000 babies. There's a few reasons why this can happen. There's a 50/50 chance that his symptoms will end and he will live a normal life. Bentley could develop a need for speech and language therapy, physical therapy and or occupational therapy. He could continue having strokes. This all sounds scary, but it was a huge relief to have an answer after three days of speculation. At this moment we are waiting on results from the EEG. We have an eye exam scheduled today still, plus a meeting with a Neurologist at some point today or tomorrow. Tara and I are confident that everything is headed in the right direction, and should know more in the hours/days to come. We still dont have the information processed completely, and have many questions and concerns that we will get straightened out over time. Thank you for your support and prayers, and we will let you know more as we get the chance.

I sit here tonight my friends and I'm proud to report to you the latest new on Bentley.  Around 18 months old Curt and I started to worry about Bentley's language development.  We started to notice that he wasn't progressing forward like we felt he should.  I started my venture with mentioning my concerns to our Parents As Teacher worker Sandy and she put in a referral to AEA.  AEA came out and did an assessment on Bentley and found that we would probably benefit from having someone work with him once a month to try and get more words and sounds from him.  We started this right away and were so excited for Bentley to begin this journey.  Our worker that came out for AEA is Missy and she is wonderful and fantastic.  Sometime's Bentley is stubborn for her and won't communicate with her in anyway, but recently he has been showing some major improvements and is working his way back up the charts.  In April we went to our 2 year appointment with Dr. Frost and Curt mentioned to him that he is still concerned the Bentley is falling behind other children his age.  Dr. Frost agreed and referred us to the speech pathologist with Skiff Hospital.  He was evaluated for speech and his hearing the week of April 22nd.  His hearing test came back clean as a whip and he excelled greatly.  The speech evaluation, wasn't as pretty.  She tested him at a 9 month old level and it was suggested that he begin with speech therapy 2 times a week.  He's making sounds but just does not have any consonant sounds.  Her concern is he would not be able to begin saying words if he didn't have a consonant sounds.  We have been working with Lissa since the middle of April.  Bentley is making strides!!!  He still isn't saying things clearly but he is saying more and more.  Lissa tells me that we can shape sounds later when he is older and that it's not a huge concern right now.  What is more important is just getting him talking and communicating with us.  I am so happy with the progress and outcome of what we could have been looking at 2 years ago.  
Keep up the good work Bentley, your mom and dad are so proud of you!!!  We are behind you all the way! 

From 'What the Hecks?!?!?' to 'What!? I've been Hacked?!?!?'

So, tonight I stumbled upon my wife's blog. 
She forgot to log out. 
She needs to be more careful. 

 Tonight, I miss you.

Among the sounds of the semis

Running through our window;

Alone, I miss you. 

Just wanting to hold you.

Every minute that passes

Along this endless night; 

Needing to hold you

Hooray! For tomorrow!

Excitement over takes my

Countless depressions;

Kindly begging, For tomorrow!

SWW......Birthday version

• So what I got totally surprised by my family and friends tonight at my favorite restaurant!  A girl only turns 30 once!!!!!   And boy oh boy it was a surprise!
• So what I must admit I was a little bummed when my husband told me he wanted to just go out the three of us for my birthday, Curt doesn't think birthdays are a big deal.  I on the other hand think EVERYONE deserves a great grand party EVERY birthday just to remind them how special and loved they are. 
• So what I ended up with cake all over myself. I kind of deserved it!  Long awaited payback! Just remember that Mr. Smead!!   Its not over!!!  
• So what I was lied to all day by everyone I seen, it was for a good cause.
• So what that my friends and I go months without talking because of life and families...we do a great job of catching up right where we left off!!!
• So what that when we got home from the party all my husband wanted to do was watch basketball!   I still love him. 

Thanks again to everyone who came out to celebrate my birthday!  It was a great night to remember!

SWW

• So what it's my birthday and I turned 30 today!!! 
• So what if it feels just like any other day, man birthdays are no fun anymore.
• So what that I don't have much more to talk about.  I'm kind of boring.  

SO what If it's Thursday (SWW)

• So What I stole this image from Sabrina, thanks friend you rock and are so creative.
• So what I haven't written in a long time, I've been rather busy and I've been trying to focus on spending more quality time with Bentley instead of being on the computer....I'm about 40% successful!  Please pray, I still need help!  UGH
• So what that today when I tried to get my son to lay down with me, he slid of the bed, went out to the living room and woke me up by throwing his baseball at my head.  When I opened my eyes he was eagerly awaiting with his bat for me to throw the ball to him.  (god i love that kid)
• So what that we went shopping last night for clothes I spent my whole allotment in one night while my husband still has over half of his to still go shopping!  I hit it big, or was in the mood to shop, either way I got me some new clothes, which doesn't happen often.
• So what my son's birthday is less than a month away and I do not have anything planned yet.  I figured it's just going to be family so I have time......Sorry family who like to plan.  
• SO what that in a week I'm going to be the big 20 30!!!!!  AWWW it's scary admitting that, but you know, it's been one hell of a 30 years for this chick!  I'm happy and healthy err...healthyish and couldn't be more thankful for the family and friends I have been blessed with. 
• So what that I made a goal at the first of the year to work out at least 3-4 times a week and I have been an EPIC failure.  I don't understand why I let myself get away with it.  I know darn well that if I just give myself time, my body will be thankful and reciprocate.    
• So what I'm desperately fighting this illness that is trying to haunt my body.  I can't get sick.  We have had to much sickness in this home.  It needs to leave our home.  
• So what I almost had out best buy card paid off and my husband surprised me with a mini I-Pad.  If the truth be told I really did want one, I just couldn't bring myself to make the purchase.  Now that it's already been made, I would know no different.  I'll just keep pluggin away at the bill like always.  He really did surprise me and that was worth it all.  

I wan to apologize to my readers for lacking in my entertainment of our lives.  Bentley has been doing so much lately that I really didn't know where to start with documenting.  I'm not very good at sticking with things.  ANYTHING for that matter.  But things with us are all going well, Bentley will be turning 2 in April and I do not know where time has gone.  2 years~ i mean I though one year went fast but 2.  WOW.  

I'll try to keep you update as best as I can! 

SWW

• So what that I haven't written for SWW in like 2 or 3 weeks, I get tired and Wednesday nights seem to be the butt end of my exhaustion.  I'm sorry to my readers that I left you missing out.
• So what that I just "happened" to forget to give Bentley his pacifier tonight.  He was supper tired, went right to bed, didn't even reach for it, so why remind him.  He was sleeping about 15 seconds minutes later.  I'll be anxious to see if he wakes up during the night.  If he doesn't, this may be the end of the binky my friends!!!!  
• So what that I picked up a part time job for fun.  In hind sight I didn't think I was busy enough for me, I wanted to be able to get out more and do things I enjoy.  Working with families and children mark high on that list.  Now that I have it, I feel like I don't have enough time for it all.  Oh well you can't win them all.  Things will eventually work out so I can have an even balance.  
• So what I had to drive to work this morning in this cruddy snow for a work meeting, when last Friday they canceled the meeting before the snow started to even fall!!!  Once again the news prove they can control people.  When they tell you to freak out and get ready for "BIG" snow, everyone does.  But when the "BIG" snow ACTUALLY hits without warning, people carry on like no big deal.  I don't get it.
• So what that I try to keep in touch with my friends as often as I can try.  Even if its not very often, I still want to try to keep something in place so those friendships don't sizzle out and die.  I've lost to many a good friends by not keeping up with things.  I can't afford to loose the ones I have left. 
• So what that my son has begun learning to use object as step stools and now gets into EVERYTHING.  He can reach things that he did not used to be able to and now nothing is safe in our home.  Time to reorganize, AGAIN.
• So what I'm going to be 21....30 in March!!!  It's been a great 30 years, but man that just sounds old!  I'm happy where God has lead me to in life.  I can't complain, I have a great family, wonderful husband, and the best son a mom could ask for.  I have a job that can allow me to get food on the table and shelter to keep me warm in these cold months.  30 years of experience for when my son is old enough to understand.  
• So what that I'm falling asleep and loosing my concentration while I write this post.  I think it's the weather playing tricks on me.  I've just been extra tired lately, NO I'M NOT PREGNANT!! (Just in case anyone planted a seed in their head)

Well that's all for tonight folks.  Hope you have a great day and for my Iowa fans stay warm and drive safe! 

Question 4 - 16 year old Self

Wow, Name 10 things I would tell my 16 year old self!  13 years ago I would have been in 10th grade I believe.

1. No one here (in school, in clubs, on teams, etc.) will matter to you in 10 years so don't sweat them now.  If they don't like you move on.  If you argue with them shrug them off.  You are your own person and life does move forward.  
2. Don't waist your time trying to better yourself for anyone else.  For yourself maybe, but if you are trying to change to impress someone, move on.  Give up on that dream because it's not worth it.  Chances are that one person your trying to change for, won't be around in 5 years anyway. 
3. Study hard and really concentrate on what you are learning in class.  You may not need the knowledge in your career or future but the topics will come up and being able to be apart of that conversation will be worth it.  
4. Learn fashion, maybe not high end fashion, but learn enough so that you don't become comfortable in sweatpants and sweatshirts.  It just hides the you your trying to be and then the lack of caring about what you looks like turns into poor self confidence.  Take pride in your looks and show them off damn it! 
5. Be friends with everyone!  See number one, chances are slim that you will see these people life long so why not be nice and leave imprints.  One day they will be able to look back and have a good memory and that memory just may be about you! 
6. One day you will meet the man of your dreams, don't rush it!  Relax, enjoy life.  Don't spend all your time worrying about one guy or the next.  Let love happen and enjoy it when it does. 
7. Your mom is right, just deal with it!  Accept it and move on.  One day you'll be just like her there's just no getting around it.  DEAL WITH IT! 
8. Make memories now, enjoy life now!  Make books about friends and remember the times you spent with them.  Those times will quickly be replaced with responsibility, children, family, heartache, and stress.  NO matter how hard you try these things will creep up on you and become apart of your daily life.  Embrace the freedom now! 
9. You are great just as you are.  Stay spunky and witty, smile often and laugh.  Don't stress about the "mean girls" and definitely do not  trust that they know anything about you and your life.  They can not give you any advice that's worth anything to you.  Stick with your own advice and listen to what your mother and close friends have to say about you. 
10. You will grown up and do wonderful things with your life!!!!! 

I'd be curious as to what my fellow bloggers would say to themselves at age 16~!!!!!  Come on join with me just for this one question for sure!!  Don't forget to leave me a comment so I can read them! 

Question 3 - Relationship with Parents

My relationship with my parents is very close.  Some might say that we have a secure bond in that its a healthy connection between child and parents.  Some may say that we are too interconnected and entangled into each others lives.  I really don't care what "some people" say honestly.  I feel that we have a good healthy loving relationship.  

Growing up my mother was my best friend.  I told her everything, and I mean EVERYTHING.  Some children might cringe at the idea of the things I would tell my mom but I found that I was comfortable talking to her, sometimes maybe to comfortable.  Like the fact that I could not lie to my mom.  NO matter what I tried, I always ended up telling her the truth because I knew that's what I was suppose to do.  Call it the fear of the mother or just plain open honest communication between a mother and her child.  Sometimes I feel that having this close of a relationship caused many unnecessary arguments or fights, even as a grown adult we often argue about things we do not agree on.  Rather we should embrace the idea that we each have our own thoughts.  I love my mother and she would do anything for me and my sister.  She is our rock and definitely our provider.

My Step dad is pretty much the most amazing person on this planet.  He met my mom when my sister and I were rather young, I was about 5, Angie was 10.  It's hard enough for two people to find each other after both have gone through divorces and children but it's even harder to find someone who will pick up with things left off (so to speak).  Regan accepted us both right from the start, never ask questions and from what I remember without any struggles (for the most part).  He support my sister and I in all that we did and did so like we were his own flesh and blood.  It take a strong person to step in like he did and I really appreciate him for that.  In my eyes, there no step about him, he is in deed my FATHER, my daddy, and will always be.  

With that said, I don't have much to say about my biological father, my sperm donor as I call him.  Never really had a relationship with him that I can remember and haven't really ever wanted one in my adult years.  Probably steamed from the lack of acceptance to my willingness as a child so I just lost interest. 

All in all I love my parents and am very happy with how my life has been and will be.  I do rely on my parents because I know they will take care of me in need.  After all, that's what parents are for.  I just hope that I am able to repay the favor for them some day in just the way they have done for me.  With caring and acceptance!!!            

SWW

• So what that I haven't showered since Sunday afternoon!  The only thing I've done in two days is take B to his tumbling on Monday night, Sad I know!!!   I'm also in the same clothes I wore on Monday.  Ugh No motivation or will power! 
• So what that my child is spoiled even though his birthday is two months away.  Daddy and his grandparents love him!   Curt went shopping without me this weekend, scary scary thing! 
• So what that I feel like eating everything in this house, talk about some major PMS cravings.  BTW there just isn't anything good to eat here!  I NEED MORE!   
• So what that my husband didn't go to work today and he's in bed sleeping.  He got up and shoveled this  morning, basically for nothing!   Darn wind! 
• So what that my son was playing with his pop tart this morning like it was a car, call it boring breakfast food!  I wish I could think of more but he doesn't like eggs, and pancakes take to long, unless I get frozen ones, but then he smells like syrup the rest of the day, YUCK!
• So what that I just said I was going to start starving myself so I can look good for the weeding I'm going to be in in Oct.  I'm so happy for my friend Amy!!!!  
• So what that I'd rather sit back and watch my child interact with his toys than get in there and lead him in play.  I just wish I could make out what he is trying to say because it sounds too cute!  I think he's trying to count them, he sooo smart.  
• So what I played Just Dance on the Wii last night and only made it through two songs before getting winded and sweating to death, I'm out of shape okay!?! 

I hope all are having a wonderful week and just be glad today is hump day.  The week is almost over for you all!  

Day late and a dollar short.....Friday Faves

1. Mother-In-Laws homemade noodles.  She made dinner for us on Monday night and it was AWWWmazing.  My hips love them too, since I've been eating them everyday for a week I'm pretty sure I've gain weight because of them but they are delicious. 
2. Family!  We had our yearly VanHoosen family get together (Christmas in January) at the hotel on Sat. night.  I had the night off from work and it was worth it.  There's nothing like getting a bunch of loved ones all in one place.  The adults all played the Newlywed Game and it was pretty interesting! 
3. Cuddles!!!  Bentley had a couple of time this week where he just wanted to cuddle with his mommy!  I love when he gets in these moods.  Sometimes I must admit I have to remind myself how much when I'm in the middle of doing things but he helps me keep my priorities straight that's for sure.  
4. Sleep, right about now I'm thinking I might not have gotten enough of it this week but I love sleep! 
5. Paychecks!  So I can go shopping and save money on my gas card! 

SWW

• So what I'm a little behind with getting this posted, I've been busy all day with two children and didn't have the ability to type without tiny little hands all over the key board! 
• So what we just bought milk at the gas station, we might of paid more, but not as much as if we would have actually went into Hy-Vee because, oh those cookies look good , and oh we need bread, and oh yea I forgot we need juice!  In the end we saved more.
• So what I practically shoved my son into a 2x4 at tiny tots causing him to get a welt across his forehead on Monday.  It's hard to teach him to bear crawl up that thing!!!  It went away by the time we left I might add!
• So what that I refuse to go to the doctor now that we have new health care through my work.  We are on a health savings plan and have a health savings account and we will have to pay entirely to much for me to go over some silly sore throat (which,so want it might be strep?) ((i know i know if it gets any worse I'll go))
• So what that my day yet again affirmed that I'm not ready to have two children in the Heck household.  Bentley was too jealous today and I couldn't handle it.  Maybe I just need to rent a few kids out a little at a time to teach Bentley to share, Sabrina? Chelsea? Lacey? I'm sure you're all takers LOL 
• So what that my son loves pickles he'd prolly eat them at every meal, I sure did when I was pregnant with him!  Makes total sense.  
• \So what my Husband had to go back to paying for a hair cut and he likes to get his haircut very regularly.  Something to add to our budget I guess.  Thank god for short hair, he can get his done for $10.  When I go, I need to get it highlighted, dried, and styled and I can't walk out without spending $100 or more! 

Thanks again for tuning in for my weekly rant of SO WHATS!!!  Have a great NIGHT!!!!!!!

Question 2

2. Describe 3 legitimate fears you have and explain how they became fears.


One of my biggest fears lately is having more than one child. Separating my time between the two, making sure they get enough attention, having them get along with out completely hating each other when they grow up, finding time to still be a couple (which is hard enough with just one child). I guess I want to elaborate on that one a little because it might be the biggest factor. I feel strained enough to balance time spent with my son, my husband, myself, and my job. I don't feel there is enough of either of those and I just can't think about it if you were to add one more person to that mix. My husband and I struggle right now with spending time together alone, the two of us, other than after Bentley goes to bed, which in turn makes it time for me to go to bed, most of the time. We've said that we were going to set aside a night a week, then it went to a month, to hardly ever. Money being the main factor it to that, which is another fear of having another child. UGH see what I mean, I'm stressed out just typing all this.


Another fear of mine is dying with out family around. This is a key reason why I'm still in Newton around my family and have not moved away. Now I realize that if I'm lucky enough I won't have to worry because all members of my family will live their healthy happy lives and pass when it's perfectly their time to go, but I'm afraid of my early death where family is still around. Oh boy, it just sounds confusing, but I hope you get the idea! I don't want to do days of already being gone until someone finds me or figures out I'm not around! (make sense?)


Thunderstorms, no really! In total seriousness when the weather gets so bad that the news starts talking about warnings and going to basements and such, I start flipping out. I'm 95% better than I used to be when I was younger, in fact up till I went to college, but they scare me. There's too much excitement surrounding them and it gets me worked up. When we were younger (my sister and I) we were with my cousin while my mom was out for the evening. All I remember is being at my cousins grandmother's house and her house had caught on fire from lighting and she would not leave her house. We have to get her out and there were sirens and fire trucks, way too traumatizing for a 5 year old. That's all I have to say. Now as traumatizing as my story is, the full details that I remember are not quite remembered by all parties so I must admit I'm not sure if my little mind exaggerated things such as remembering another tree close to us getting struck by lighting while we were standing outside, which no one else remembers, so with that said it started my fear of thunderstorms. Like major ones, I'm okay with little rumble storms, now! LOL

IT's FRIDAY!

So my friend made the icon above (i just copied and pasted Sabrina! THANKS FOR SHARING) and also started the idea that we take the five things we liked most about our week!  What a super duper idea.  It has made me really reflect on my week and brought some new appreciation to my wonderful life!  So here is my favs from the week!!!

1. Friends!  The best part of my week was getting away for an evening and meeting with friends, the Mexican food was just an added bonus!  We have been getting together once a month and believe me it's needed and wonderful!
2. Talking with my Husband about a recent story outbreak in football? umm I think that was the sport LOL, anyway bottom line It was pretty awesome to have a discussion about something we were both interested in.  I believe it was a football player who was dating a girl he met and it came out that it was a whole scam on the internet.  I true Cat fish story!  Cat fish is show on MTV about people who have relationships with others on-line, go years without meeting, and end up most the time being a total scam or individuals who aren't being their true selves.  But it was a story that sparked our interest so we talked awhile about it.  (Sadly but that hasn't happened in awhile, unless you count talking about our son).
3. Mondays with MOM.  Bentley has tumbling on Monday nights which make for a late night for dinner and by the time we were to get home most the time we all are exhausted and cooking is furthest from my brain.  My mom and dad started having us over for dinner and its been great.  Nice time to catch up and relax after my work weekend.
4. Biscuit PIZZAs!!!!!  My fav as a kid making mini pizzas out of biscuits   Bentley is a fan as well!  I made them for dinner last night.
5. Grocery shopping and saving .23 on my next gas fill up!    

SWW

IT'S SWW!!!!!!!!!!!!  It's also my girls night and I can't wait!  

• So what that all I have thought about is Mexican food for the past week in the anticipation of seeing my girlfriends this week!  We've begun setting up a date once a month to meet and it's the best night of my month for me, for real! 
• So what that I stock my friends Blog to read about her wonderful life, like check it everyday, multiple times a day!  Sabrina, that reminds me, I MISS YOUR BLOG!  I understand your busy but, your letting your readers down! LOL Oh I forgot to mention that I check this because my life is so boring!  
• So what that I jump at the very first sign of my son getting tired so I can put him down for a nap, so I can nap too!  Or just have some alone time, which in turn I end up falling asleep because I get bored.  Either way, win win LOL 
• SO what that my friend is getting married in October and I promised myself that I would start losing some weight so I could feel good about being in it and I haven't started to loose weight, or even care that I haven't lost any.  
• So what that I woke up yesterday to my son in only his diaper and shirt on, with ALL of his animals and blankets out of his crib.  He must of woke up early and was being a good little boy so his mama could sleep a little longer.  (one of these days though, I'm afraid he's going to learn to take off his diaper, uh oh bat man!)
• So what that we don't have money saved away?  We aren't in total complete debt that its not manageable, we get our bills paid, we have food on our table and a roof over our heads.  I tend to often look at the fact that we do not have money in a negative light, but i MUST start looking at positives in my life.  I MUST! 
• So what its Wednesday and I'm SUPER EXCITED to look through the HY-VEE add to see what deals we have this week!  I'm all about getting the most cents' I can off my gas, and saving money!  

20 random things about ME! Day ONE

1. I was born and raised in Newton, and still live here! ( minus the four years I went to college)
2. I bought a house, found a man, moved in with said man, got engaged and got pregnant all within two years! (yeah I move fast, so what? LOL)
3. I have a huge fear of having two children, yet am sadden when my husband talks about getting fixed after our second child? 
4. I haven't gotten my hair cut in about a year.  I don't think about taking care of myself now that I have a child.  
5. I once stole a car in College an didn't even know it, I promise I was just borrowing a friends car! 
6. I have my BA in Social Work and am currently not using it.
7. I love the smell of lilac!  I would like to plant a lilac tree right outside my bedroom window so in the Spring I can always have the smell at my finger tips. 
8. I love the fall because I can start wearing sweat pants and oversize sweatshirts!  There is nothing more comfy! 
9. I am addicted to Starbucks lattes!
10. I enjoy Charlie Brown Christmas because it's one of the few cartoons that really point out the true meaning of Christmas.  
11. I'm almost 30 and I still take a nap every chance I get! 
12. I drive a Kia Sportage and it will be hard to get a new vehicle when ever I may need to get one. 
13. I just now this year (after being married for two) got our wedding pictures in frames and up on the wall.  All it took was to host Christmas at my house and have people over.  I'm not much of a hostess.
14. I have about a handful of really close friends and that works for me!  I struggle with keep close to them the way it is so I'm happy with what I have! 
15. I would like to go to Paris France someday, but realize that this may never happen.  
16. I went para-sailing last year in Florida and do not really have a desire to go again.  Maybe it was the VERY rough boat ride on the very gray day but it wasn't all that enjoyable.  Just another life experience so that was good.  
17. I look forward to my four year in Florida this year with my family!  I can not wait to get away for a week.  But I have to wait till June, bummer.
18. I have a cat named Precious and a dog named Daisy! 
19. I tend to have bigger dreams for a home than I can afford.
20. I have a very close family and sometimes I agree that we may be too close but I wouldn't trade it for the world.  

30 Random Things

   http://cherishinghopesanddreams.blogspot.com/

**So I'm not very good at linking things, and I have no idea what a button means in the blog world so this is my attempted at giving Credit where credit is due!!!**

I stumbled upon this on pinterest the other night and decided that I wanted to participate in it.  It's called
30 things and for 30 days you post about the question and people can learn more about you.  So I encourage you to try it out as well if your interested!  Here is the list of questions:

THE LIST:

1. List 20 random facts about yourself.
2. Describe 3 legitimate fears you have and explain how they became fears.
3. Describe your relationship with your parents.
4. List 10 things you would tell your 16 year-old self, if you could.
5. What are the 5 things that make you most happy right now?
6. What is the hardest thing you have ever experienced?
7. What is your dream job, and why?
8. What are 5 passions you have?
9. List 10 people who have influenced you and describe how.
10. Describe your most embarrassing moment.
11. Describe 10 pet peeves you have.
12. Describe a typical day in your current life.
13. Describe 5 weaknesses you have.
14. Describe 5 strengths you have.
15. If you were an animal, what would you be and why?
16. What are your 5 greatest accomplishments?
17. What is the thing you most wish you were great at?
18. What has been the most difficult thing you have had to forgive?
19. If you could live anywhere, where would it be and why?
20. Describe 3 significant memories from your childhood.
21. If you could have one superpower, what would it be and what would you do with it first?
22. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years? 15 years?
23. List your top 5 hobbies and why you love them.
24. Describe your family dynamic of your childhood vs. your family dynamic now.
25. If you could have dinner with anyone in history, who would it be and what would you eat?
26. What popular notion do you think the world has most wrong?
27. What is your favorite part of your body and why?
28. What is your love language?
29. What do you think people misunderstand most about you?
30. List 10 things you would hope to be remembered for.

I know that the month has already started so I am just going to do this for 30 random days! Hope you enjoy!

SWW

                                   

• So what that we put the Christmas Tree away, picked up the house, and vacuumed to get the house looking nice, and not two minutes later Bentley drug out all his toys and their back all over the floor again.  Who's house is this anyway?!?! 
• So what that our Christmas Tree was still  up on Jan 9th, were busy people over here, that or just lazy.  I haven't decided yet! 
• So what that my husband taught my son how Superheros jump off the couch, AND TAPED IT to post to You Tube!  My son is a graceful jumper, that's all I have to say.  
• So what the at I get more use out of the NABI that we got our son for Christmas, he pretty much just likes to chew on the rubber bumper around the edge anyway! 
• So what that I've picked up so much overtime lately that I'm super exhausted and would rather sleep than spend time with my family.  This is very sad to feel this way but I'm being honest here. 
• So what that my son still sings Jingle Bells and was VERY upset that we took that Christmas Tree down.  Maybe he really likes Christmas! 
• So what that I'm completely unmotivated and non creative tonight.  Sorry followers that's all I got 

Bentley 2012

Mr. Bentley what can I say? You my child are AmAzInG in every way.  It's January which means in 3 months you will be 2!!!!  Currently you are wearing 18/24(2T) month shirts and 18 month pants (24 mnths and 2t's are just a little long on you).  You are healthy for the most part, aside from the colds, runny noses and occasional fevers that you seem to be attracted to.  You continue to eat well, there isn't a hole lot you don't like.  Most the time when you don't eat something it's because your not hungry rather than because you don't like it.  Or at least that is what it seems.  You still drink whole milk and love your juice.  I tried to give you new foods so you don't get in a rut with eating the same things, but this is something I still need work on.  You still eat in your highchair and prefer using your hands instead of utensils, no matter how many times we put them in your hands.  You make quite the mess, Mr. B!   
You still aren't talking much, but it's okay, it will come.  Occasionally we will catch what you are saying and we get excited.  During the Christmas holiday you started humming jingle bells, humming ho ho ho, I believe you say Santa (kind of sounds like Amanda but you point to pictures of Santa so I'm convinced you are saying Santa).  I'm still working with you on signing your needs because that screaming you do, well it just gets to be too much sometimes.  Just recently you've picked up on trying to sign for help.  It's still a work in progress but you will get it very soon.  I need to make a list of some other words you need to say so I can help find a sign that works for you.  I feel that this is the best way for you to communicate to me your wants without getting frustrated at me with not knowing what you want or need.  I pray for the day that you call me mommy spontaneously without being prompted, this too will come.  I just know it.  I pray at night for you, that things are all right.  I try not to worry that you will always struggle with pronouncing words, or struggle with not being able to tell us your needs.  I want to think that everyone is right when they tell me that it doesn't matter that you aren't saying much, one day you just "will".  I am getting a specialist to come out and evaluate you, this is just for ease of mind and to help mommy and daddy know what to do next.
You are going to tumbling classes now!  And for the most part I think you LOVE it.  When we first started going, you did NOT want to listen or follow along with what the other kids were doing.  You didn't quite understand what was going on but now you look forward to going and seem to have a lot of fun.  We work on lots of different skills like stretching, climbing, walking, jumping, running, etc.  You really enjoy "big steps" and rolling over.  We are working with you on bear crawling, log rolling, and climbing the sloped ladder.  Daddy really enjoys spending this quality family time with you as do I.
You LOVE LOVE LOVE music.  You can't seem to get enough of it, and in fact you can make anything some sort of musical instrument.  You have play guitars, drums, and microphones, pianos, harmonica, etc.  Grandma Cathi's musical talents definitely shine in you.  For Christmas Grandma Betty and Grandpa Regan along with Aunt Connie and Aunt Angie, got you so many musical things that you could have a one man band.  You also love playing sports with Daddy.  Golf I think is your sport of choice, you will hit anything like a golf ball with your golf clubs.  We have to keep reminding you not to hit people or the dog.  You are still learning.  You like to play with balls, throwing them, catching them, rolling them.  You got a basketball hoop for Christmas so maybe we can start getting you to throw them more appropriately rather than randomly and hitting things that might break.  Santa brought you a Powerwheels car for Christmas and dad thinks you love it, only we found out the hard way that letting you drive it in the house causes the tires to leave black marks on the carpets so we had to take it back outside, but its waiting for you when spring hits.  I can't wait to see you drive across the yard in it.
Things you got to do this year, had a birthday party with all your family and friends, went to Adventureland, took your second trip to Florida, your first trip to Colorado, which we drove and it was a long time in the car for you but you did great.  The first time you took a road trip was to Michigan but you were just a baby so you mostly slept the whole way there.  You got to go to your first Iowa State Fair, you loved the corn dogs and riding the ponies the most.  There are lots of other things but so many to list, I just picked out a few of the most significant things to talk about.  You never stop making us laugh and I love that about you.  NO matter how frustrated I seem to get with you I always change my mood within seconds because you are on to the next thing doing something silly.  I can't wait for what 2013 will bring!   

Goals

I feel a strong urge to set some goals for myself, my family, and our future.  New Years resolutions do not seem to stick with me, they are the same as going on a diet, to much effort that I don't have to put forth.  Which as I write that I'm sadden that I even use as and excuse.  There are a lot of you out there that are setting goals for the year 2013 and I like that idea.  I like the idea of setting small steps that are reachable so that when I reach them I can feel good about myself instead of continuing to be depressed because I'm not actively working toward anything other than keeping my family fed, clothed, and happy.  Which is amazing to do don't get me wrong, but most of me thinks that this is just what I HAVE to do.  I want to set somethings that I WANT to do for me, my family, and our health.

Personal Goals

• Get ACTIVE!  Doing SOMETHING during the week other than occasionally chasing my son around the house and occasionally walking around Wal-Mart.  I do get the house work done and feel pretty pleased that I can keep up with that most of the time, but the other times I find myself sitting in the chair.  Sitting and observing my son, sitting, tired, lifeless.  I will start by at least 15 - 20 mins of dancing, chasing, PLAYING actively with my son a day.  I'm sure this will increase over time.  *DISCLAIMER I do interact and play with my son, I feed my son, I meet his need,  please do not read this and think that I ignore my son.  I am just not as active, physically active, with my son as I would like to be. 
• Be HEALTHY AWARE!  I would like to say here, get on a diet, loose weight, stop eating junk food, but honestly I just can't say that.  I want these goals to be obtainable so why set myself up for failure right?  I want to be aware of what I'm eating and be cautious of my calorie intake.  I can TRY to stop drinking unnecessary calories such as lattes and pop.  I can try to fight off my urges to snack on candy while working late nights.  I need to drink more water, period.  I would like to start twice a week actually cooking a decent meal for my family.  Rather than cooking something from a box or package.  Keep junk food out of the house and replace it with healthier snacks.  That way I don't have to choose what to eat, I have no other option than to eat the healthy snack.
• Get more ORGANIZED - just in life in general.  Now I don't want to be crazy crazy organized like making list for every single thing, but just being organized with my time.  This would play a role in the getting active from my previous goals.  Right now I feel that I waste a lot of time sitting around, sleeping, and surfing around on Facebook/games.  I get the bare min done but still feel that my life would benefit from just staying more active in life.  I am constantly tired due to my schedule changes every week so I don't have a lot of energy.  I feel if I begin to organize my time I can try to train my body to act differently.  

Family Goals        

• Start date night once a month.  I have ALWAYS said, since before I even met the man of my dreams, that when I had a family I would make sure to take time away to celebrate my relationship.  This is, however, the foundation of a family.  Like I have done many times before I've had to eat my words because like many of us know, LIFE IS BUSY!  Curt and I tried doing this when Bentley was born but we let if fissile out, mostly because I started working weekend nights and our time was even more limited, but no more excuses.  ONCE A MONTH is not a lot to ask.  
• Take more pictures of things we do as a family.  Share more of our lives with others around us.  Share stories of the milestones the Bentley has met. 
• Talk more about our days.  Share with each other more of our wants and needs in the relationship/family.  
• Spend more intimate time together! (not just what your thinking, but yes that too!!!)  
• Remind each other why we love them, we can't just assume we each already know! Let's face it, it's always nice to hear why your loved!  It never gets old!
• DON'T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF - this is more of a personal goal but I think the family could benefit in remembering this as well. 
• Invite friends over!  Life needs to be shared with friends!  

Future Goals

• Get financially set where we can continually save money instead of feeling like was have $0 in our bank account all the time.  This is something that is being worked on and will continue to be worked on.  We have a good idea in place we just need to get to a comfortable place where we can start seeing the benefits.
• Begin thinking of Bentley's future, wow!  Someday he's going to need a car, he'll be in activities, he will go to college.  I can't imagine trying to pay for things like that right now on top of money for food, gas, bills, etc.  
• Begin looking toward getting a new home or getting financed to get a new home.  We EVENTUALLY would like to add to our family and right now I couldn't imagine having more than one child at all times in that home.  I guess a brand new baby wouldn't be bad, but a crawler and a toddler, holy cow!  ( See even thinking about having children at this age freaks me out so I know I'm not ready for anymore, yet)  

Well this is a good start I feel.  My blog got a little long and I am sorry if your still with me.  I feel pretty confident with this list for now.  I feel that these are reachable.  They will work for our family and get me on a start to getting organized with my life.  Who knows maybe I'll start loosing weight just by getting active, there's hope!