Alison & Christian

Fall!!!

2009-11-20T10:30:00.001-08:00

I know it has been a LONG time, but I had some cute fall pictures I thought I would share!

Christian Graduates from Kindergarten...

2009-07-08T08:09:00.002-07:00

Back in May Christian graduated from Kindergarten. It was a sweet but sad ceremony. He was so very cute. He looked so big! Being that he is my baby it was very hard to imagine that was already done with his first year in school! It was also a sad day because it was both of my kids last day in public school! We have decided that this fall we will begin homeschooling. I say we because Chris will be very active in participating in this effort. I like the school that they are in, but I don't feel that it offers what I can offer at home! They will get bible stories every day, one on one attention and be able to focus on the things they excel in. For the first year I have decided to join a co-op. We will go to the co-op one day a week. They will attend classes just like they would at school. I went this route so that I could familiarize my self with curriculum and have a support system of other homeschool moms. I am very excited about this new adventure. The kids are on board and excited as well! Keep us in your prayers this year as we strive to be the parents that we feel we have been called to be!

While I Was Gone...

2009-05-28T11:13:00.008-07:00

I won't go into all the details, but these last couple of weeks of been, long, to say the least. We have been to funerals & graduations and more. My Grandma, Dad's Mom, passed away and so I headed to Kansas City, MO last Saturday. I went with just my parents. My little sister and older brother also came. We were able to reconnect with family and friends that I hadn't seen in YEARS. It was a sad occasion, but nice to see so many people.

While I was gone, Chris got to spend memorial day with some friends out on the lake (that's what everyone here does). Here are some pictures of their fun day.

Ladies Retreat

2009-05-01T09:00:00.002-07:00

I am leaving in a couple of hours to spend the weekend with 25 other ladies at a little cabin about 2 hours away. I have never planned anything like this before, but it should be great. When you see this say a quick prayer that it will be a wonderful, renewing weekend! Thanks!

Wedding...

2009-04-30T12:33:00.002-07:00

Last Saturday we were invited to be part of Josh and Alisha's wedding. Alison & Aspen were flower girls and Christian was the ring bearer. This is a great picture that Brandon took of all the cousins together! I thought it was soooo good! Aren't they a great looking group! They could pass for siblings!

Alison Sings In Spanish

2009-04-16T08:06:00.003-07:00

Alison was asked by her bible class teacher to talk to her class about Mexico. She prepared a little something and then at the end her and a couple friends sang Jesus Loves Me in Spanish. It's not perfect, but very cute!

I know what I said...

2009-04-15T07:44:00.002-07:00

I know I said that I would be more faithful to blogging! In Mexico I blogged a lot more, but it was easier. For one thing, we had internet at the house! We have made a commitment to not have the internet at the house, and after 1 year and 4 months we are going strong! We thought it would be better to not have it at all then to try and monitor our kids in a couple of years when they start using it. So, we have it at the church, and that's where we use it. Anyways, there are other reasons too.

As you know, I had announced to the world that we were expecting number 3. Just two weeks after that, I miscarried. It has been a very difficult month and a half, but I feel ready to talk about it and move on. It was an awful experience, but God gave us some amazing people to help us out. I saw a doctor who didn't charge me anything! A friend's sister-in-law is an OB here in town and she saw me and did the tests for free. I just had to pay about $90 for labs and thats it. It was a very big blessing from God. The church here also took great care of us. They gave us money for food for about 2 weeks. It was great, although by the end of 2 weeks we were sick of take out! But it was so good to not have to cook during that time. All in all, we are doing good. Some days are still bad, but I have more good days then bad!

As we move on we have looked very hard at our lives and are making other changes. For one TV time is out! The kids are allowed to watch TV (this includes the Wii) until 5. That's about an hour of time. Past that it's play time. Our backyard is nearly an acre. They love being outside, especially Alison. If you can't find her, just look up in a tree! This has been a great change. Also, this extra time gives Alison the chance to read to Christian more. He loves any and all attention that she gives him, so since she loves to read, she'll read to him for an hour! It is so sweet and cute! The other big change is that we joined the YMCA. This is the only gym in town and is only a year old, so it's really nice! They even have a swim park inside! So hopefully we will get healthier!

On a fun note, we went to Six Flags over Easter weekend. This time was great, mainly because I got to take Alison on the Texas Giant for the first time! Yes, my 8 year old is an adrenaline junky! She is just like her Mom! It was so much fun! Christian on the other hand, he prefers anything that stays perfectly on the ground, in fact if it doesn't move, all the better! The bench is perfect for him! Ok, he liked more then the bench, but not much more! And that's cool! I love him for the sweet, tenderhearted boy that he is!

I feel like I have more to say, but will end here for now. Hope everyone is doing well. And thanks to everyone who has been thinking and praying for us over the past couple of months.

Enjoying my boy!

2009-01-23T12:15:00.004-08:00

I can't believe that my baby turned 6! He is growing into one of the finest little boys that has ever lived, I'm convinced! He is a shy, cute little thing. I literally get stopped and told that he is cute by strangers. His teacher brags on him all the time and everyone at church just loves him! Yes, I am bragging, but this is MY blog so I have the right. Anyways, his birthday was yesterday and so I have spent some time just reflecting on him and the wonderful time I have been blessed with so far. Enjoy some pictures of our fun party last night! (Last night was just a family thing, last Saturday we took Christian and 3 of his friends to see Hotel For Dogs.)

Sorry...

2009-01-16T07:00:00.003-08:00

I'm still waiting on a new cable to my computer so that I can turn it on and get pictures from it!

In other news...Christian will be 6 next week! I can't believe it. We are taking him and three of his friends to the movies tomorrow to celebrate! It should be fun...4 six year olds...nothing to worry about, right?

Almost ready!

2009-01-12T12:21:00.002-08:00

So I have given the blog a new look, and I am excited to catch everyone up on my families comings and goings! On Wed. I have decided to block out a stretch of time in order to post some pictures from the past six months! So don't give up on me yet! I will be back!

Making it back from camp!

2008-07-30T08:54:00.006-07:00

Call of the search parties, we did make it back! I guess Timbra was the only worried enough to send out search and rescue, but now, dear friend, be assured that we are resting safely in our own home!

Camp was good. It was hot and sticky, but worth it. I was a camp counselor for the 4th grade girls. I had 8 girls in my cabin and they were all great! I also made had an AIMer newly off the field from Scotland as my co-counselor. Her name is Stephanie Black and she made a hugh impact on me. I would not have survived camp without her! For the most part things were smooth. My girls never had any major fights and were always willing to get up once I shoved them out of bed! But no one was lost, or drowned in the pool, so all in all it was a success!

The funniest story I have is one night I decided to go into town (Norman, OK) with Chris to get away for an hour or so. I promised Stephanie a Starbucks because it was on a night when our little nine year olds were swimming at 11:00 at night. It was only the second night of camp, so we weren't to familiar with our cabin yet. I told her that there were 9 girls in the cabin. The next morning I woke up to, "There are 8 girls." (Imagine a deep growl of you will.) "What?", I asked. "EIGHT girls, not NINE girls!" Ooops. I guess I told her the wrong number of girls so she was convinced that she had lost one of them. Anyways, the Starbucks made up for it. If there is a lesson to be learned, always count your camp girls before you send them off to the swimming pool!

All in all, it was a fun week!

Playing sports in the dark!

One of our AIMers from Leon did an intership with another congregation that came to this camp. This is Tony baptizing one of the boys from his cabin.

My computer isn't allowing me to post more pictures, so I will try again later!

Leaving for Camp...

2008-07-12T10:11:00.002-07:00

Well tomorrow we take on a brand new adventure...camp. Neither of us have been back to camp since our high school years when we went as campers to our perspective church camps. But tomorrow we will put on our tennis shoes, spray ourselves with bug repellent and head for the out doors life for a week. Chris will get to sleep in an air conditioned cabin (he is supposedly a "director") while I sleep in a NON air conditioned unit with about 15 4th graders!

Although I am dreading most things, mainly that fact we have only been in our own beds for a week and now I have to give it up for a HARD cot, I am excited to see most of the members here in a different environment than the church building. I am excited to get to know people and bond with them on a whole new level. Please keep the camp in your prayers next week. We will be hosting around 120 young people. This is a great opportunity to influence people for Christ. I pray that my body holds up (I don't do well without sleep!) and that I have great patients for all my little campers!

Hopefully I can get some pictures up soon of our new house! (Soon being sometime after camp!)

We made it to Shawnee!!!

2008-06-28T14:10:00.002-07:00

Well, we made it to Shawnee on Thursday. As we passed the church to go to the house of the family keeping us for a couple of days we saw a sign that read "Welcome Chris Jessica and family"! We feel loved! Our first couple of days have been frustrating as the papers on the house weren't ready for closing. This also upset the sellers and they wouldn't allow us to move anything into the house. But we had to turn in the truck we had rented, so we put all of our things into a storage unite today (Saturday) and we will move it into the house on Monday after closing. This is a bit frustrating, but putting it into perspective, this is a very small annoyance.

We are all happy and well. Since we are not in our home I feel like I am visiting and will be driving back to Lubbock any day! The good news is that we are here to stay! God has been good and through the annoying times has shed many blessings on us. So I will not complain, only rejoice in the great family I have and the wonderful church we are blessed to be a part of right now!

Give me some time and I will get some pictures up!

In a Nut Shell...

2008-06-17T06:18:00.004-07:00

So I know that it has been a long time since I have posted. I have actually written several posts that I have not posted. Mainly because it has been hard to know what to say during this time of reentry. But, we are doing well and finally starting to figure out where we are in life. So in a nut shell:

Alison has finished 1st grade. The transition was hard for her but on her last report card she got all A's and 1 B. (The B was in spelling of course.) This was a major improvement from her first report card in which she had failed in spelling! We are very proud of her! She reads at almost a 3rd grade level and will read ANYTHING she can get her hands on. She made friends quickly at school and has such a sweet and giving spirit. She misses Mexico and talks about it every day. She wants to watch shows in Spanish because she prefers it over English. Over all I think she has readjusted well!

Christian has done great since we have been back. His new obsession is Star Wars. He got a game cube for his birthday as well as a Lego's star wars game and we have yet to hear the end of it! He has done great since being back. He only wants food that has chili on it and gets anoid with "American" style Doritos and Cheetos. When given the option he will eat Mexican candy over boring American candy! He is our little Mexican for sure!

Chris and I have had major ups and downs. Reverse culture shock is not something I would wish on my worst enemy! But we have weathered through and things are looking great! Our time with AIM was great! We made many friends and influenced young people. More then that we where encouraged and uplifted. We have both been participating in LTG's (Life Transformation Groups) and have had so many one on one time with the AIM staff. When we left Mexico we did so because it was what was best for our family. It is for the same reason we are choosing to leave Lubbock for the greener pastures of Shawnee, OK. After having an amazing experience in Lubbock, we decided that we needed something more permanent for our family. We need a place to call home. The Lakeview Church of Christ came to Leon several times. Chris and I always loved them and felt loved by them. Their preacher (a wonderful man) decided it was his time to move on after 10 years and so they came and asked us if we were interested. After about a month of back and forth, we decided that God was the one leading us this direction. So in a week and a half we will make that move. We are on the process of buying our first home and we will close on the 27th of this month. (If you would like to see it go to openhouseok.com, click view by city, click Shawnee and then scroll down to 27 Clark cir. and you can take a virtual tour!) We feel blessed by God. He has blessed us beyond what we deserve. All we can hope to do is to continue to follow His guidance. We feel that He has been leading our journey and it is only by His continued grace that we get to continue to work for Him. We feel blessed. Our journey has been hard and full of unexpected things, but we are better people for all the hard times! We have countless friends who are in Christ all over the world. Right now I thing about the missionaries around Mexico who where shinning lights when our world felt so dark. God used them to make us better people. So to the Rush's, the Burn's, the Brednich's and the Henderson's we praise God for your families and think about you every day for all your love and support. We could not have had the strength to continue had God not put you all in our lives! Thank You!!!!

So...In a nut shell...God has been Good to us!

Numero Cinco!!

2008-01-23T05:43:00.000-08:00

Well, here it is. My youngest just turned 5! I officially have two KIDS! No more toddlers running around the house. I don't hear NO or MINE anymore. my house rings with "yes ma'am" and "may I please". Well, maybe it's not exactly like that, but my house is a lot more calm then it use to be! I have loved watching Christian grow! Right now his main loves are video games and anything hot wheels. His favorite food is Doritos, and he prefers juice over milk. He'll eat just about anything I give him. He misses his friends Nadia and Evelyn from Mexico and also misses tacos and papaya. I love my little boy!

Yesterday we celebrated his birthday with some family! It was nice having family around, it has been a long time since we have lived near family and we have been enjoying it! Last night Ann Baker made some baked potatoes, chicken nuggets, fried shrimp & mac 'n' cheese! It was a feast and very yummy! I brought over a cars cake and there were lots of presents! It was a good time!

His cool Cars cake! Thanks Wal-mart!

Opening a present from his great-grandmother!

Aunt Ann and Uncle Kevin help put batteries in the cool talking globe they got him!

Making it to Lubbock...

2008-01-10T05:49:00.000-08:00

We arrived in Lubbock on Sunday around 8:30 in the evening. We spent most of Sunday in Abilene visiting our sponcering church and also some of Chris' family. It was a long but very fun day!

Since we have been in Lubbock, we have been very busy. Monday morning we got up and took Alison to school to get registered, and she went to school that same day! She seems to like it. She has several "best friends", although she can't remember their names. Her gym teacher likes to speak to her in spanish. Alison says that he is very "impressed" with her. Also, I bought her the school lunch for this week and she is begging me to send lunch. She won't even eat the sandwiches because of the wierd cheese. The problem is, school lunch costa $1.50 so I doubt that I can send lunch cheaper than that! So I will be spending more money to send her lunch to school! Oh, well. As long as she eats!

Right now we are living with Chris' cousin Lonn and his two roommates! It's a bit crowded, but everyone seems to enjoy having the kids around, not to mention so homecooked meals! The are very gracious to let us stay! Our house should be ready the 1st of February, we are looking forward to that!

We are re-connecting with some "old" friends! Last night at church we ran into so many people! I am really excited about my friend Jamie Sanchez (sorry, I don't know her married name!) We are both from Pueblo and she was an AIM assistant while I was going through AIM. I haven't seen her in ...years! Turns out we will be living within walking distance of each other! The kids (both) also loved their classes at Sunset. We also have been asked to join a small group at one of the elders homes. We had such a warm welcome! (Mainly thanks to Toni Burns who called ahead! I can't thank you enough Toni!) Anyways, we feel really content to be here! We can't wait to get setteled, but we are enjoying God's blessings as we go!

Arriving in Houston

2008-01-05T05:21:00.000-08:00

After a very long, but uneventful trip, we made it to Houston! We made it with about an hour to spare in order to ring in the new year with Guy and Nan! We stayed in Houston until the 3rd and then we came up to my in-laws house in Bryan, Tx. Today we will travel to Abilene and will stay we some more of Chris' family. Tomorrow we will visit our sponsoring congregation. After church we will drive onto Lubbock where we will begin a new ministry. If you are wondering what you can pray for, I have a list:

Our car, it's making funny noises.
Our transition back.
Raising support (again).
Alison's transition into a new, and very different school.
The work still to be done in Leon.
Our new ministry in Lubbock.
And last, praise God for the amazing things he has already done for us. He has taken care of us and has blessed us more than we could ever deserve!

Chris, reading a story to Alison, Christian and Aspen!

Saying Good-bye

2008-01-05T04:53:00.001-08:00

To say our last week in Mexico was hard is a bit of an understatement. We had to say good-bye to many good friends, to a church we had worked so hard for, and to a place we called home for four years. The feelings I am feeling are so hard to explain. I am grateful for the time I had their, for the friendships I have made that I know will last a lifetime. I am sad for people I left behind, for the AIMers I won't be able to continue to minister too, for Patricia, I woman whom I can call a best friend. I am angry at those who we had to leave without getting a goodbye from, because what they thought we should do differed from what was best for our family. I am in awe at the mercy and love God showed us through so many friends. In the end, when times are tough, you find out who your friends are. Thankfully, we have so many friends who helped in our transition out of Mexico. The church, with whom we gave our heart and soul to for so many years, truly blessed us on our way out. They were examples of faith, love and loyalty. We are proud to say that we were able to be amongst them, even for a short time. And to the Rush's, the Henderson's and the Burn's, we can't think you all enough for being their in our time of need. Thank you for listening and talking to us. Your love and encouragement has been felt in bounds. I pray that God will continue to bless you and your ministries the same way He has used you to bless us. We could not have gotten through the difficult process without you guys. And to the Gary's, we pray that God continues to bless your time in Leon. I know as teammates, we weren't always the best, but when it counted we always worked well together! Thanks to everyone who prayed for us and our work in Leon over the years! God has done a good work there and I know that he will continue to do so...

Our small group. and others, got together and had a night of prayer. It was an amazing time!

My good friend Patricia! I will miss her so much!

Our last night we stayed with our good friends Martin and Patricia, these are their daughter's Evelyn and Nadia.

Their son's, Joshua and Leo.

Our car was packed full! We could not have done it without James Henderson!

Our last wave good-bye! We will miss you so much!

Christmas...

2008-01-05T04:47:00.001-08:00

My sister, April, was able to come down this year for Christmas. It was a bit crazy because it was our last week in Mexico! But we tried to still make sure it was special for the kids! April ended up being sick for most of the visit, but we still had fun!

Alison finding what Santa left!

Christian finding what Santa left!

Christmas dinner at Chili's with the AIMers!

The kids loved having Aunt April here!

Grandma sent a gingerbread house to decorate!

Afterwards, we ate it!

Christmas Program...

2008-01-05T04:39:00.000-08:00

Every year the kids have a Christmas program. This year was fun because Christian was in school as well! Here are a couple of pics!

While Christian sat in the middle of the stage the kids all ran around looking for him. They said, "Where is Christian Johnson, where is Christian Johnson?" When they found him he responded (imagine, if you can, the sweetest voice you've ever heard), "I'm right here! Waiting for baby Jesus!" Let's just say, I cried! It was so precious!

This was him saying his line!

Alison had a fun dance! She was so excited because she got to wear her PJ's!

Putting up the Christmas tree!

2007-11-26T19:27:00.001-08:00

Just for Nan...

2007-11-17T15:25:00.001-08:00

Such sweet kids, they look more like sibblings then cousins!

Twas' the night before Christmas...

2007-11-14T16:18:00.001-08:00

Christmas is in the air! I love this time of year! Even though it stays in the 80's year round, there is a different feeling when Christmas season is here! I love to see the shops with Christmas decorations out and can't wait until the square downtown is filled with the most beautiful poinsettias! Here is a pic of the kids in their Christmas gear! We made them take pictures for about an hour, but we got some great shots!

Halloween...

2007-11-04T15:05:00.000-08:00

Our kids always make out big during the Halloween Holiday. As a team, we always celebrate so that the kids get to dress up and have a "gringo" Halloween celebration on the 31st. Then, on the 1st, they celebrate "Dia de Muertos" (Day of the Dead) at school. And lastly, we had our yearly fall festival at church on the 2nd. So needless to say my kids are on a major sugar high!

Alison was a cat this year.

Christian wanted to go as Krypto: The Superdog, but he wouldn't wear ears or makeup, so you can't really tell that he is a dog!

Do you think that they have enough candy? I'm not sure that they do!

Playing and Updating!

2007-10-30T14:47:00.000-08:00

Well, I have finally figured out how to edit my pictures so that I can put them on blogger quickly! So I thought I would update you with some picks of the kiddos! You notice some missing teeth and new haircuts! Otherwise they are pretty much the same kids from this summer! I also thought I would throw on a couple pics from the park! Enjoy the update!

Cute face!!!

Look at her go! She can do the whole thing by herself!

Enjoying the titter totter!

Starting School

2007-10-30T14:30:00.000-08:00

This year Christian started school and Alison moved up to 1st grade. It is hard to believe that they are getting so BIG! School is going well. Alison is reading in both English and Spanish. She is weaker in English though. Spanish is easier to read and write, so I'm not surprised that she is doing well in this. She is also writing very well in cursive. We are very proud parents! Christian is doing well. He likes school and is beginning to speak in Spanish. The other day he told me, "my friend had dos(two) pencils". He just had tests and did excellent in both Spanish and English! Again, we are very proud of him!

Mini-Olympics

2007-10-30T14:11:00.001-08:00

Earlier this month Alison and Christian participated in some mini-Olympics with their school. They marched in, carried a (very) fake torch around, and played in several different kinds of races. They played at the same time so Chris went with Christian and I went and watched Alison. We even got to play in several of the races with them!

Alison in one of her races, I got to race in this one too!

Alison waiting to race.

Alison helping to carry her classes flag.

Christian held his teacher's hand the whole time.

Christian's English teacher, Ms. Myra

Christian was scared to participate...BIG TEAR!!

Racing with a balloon!

Potatoe sack race!

Someone else had to help with this race since I wasn't their!

Tag

2007-10-03T18:36:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by my friend Toni. I have never actually done one of these, but since it was Toni...:)

Here are the rules. 1)Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves. (2) People who are tagged need to write a post on their own blog (about their eight things) and post these rules. (3) At the end of your blog, you need to choose people to get tagged and list their names.

MY FACTS:

1) I'm addicted to talk radio. Yes, this is not normal, but true. Even though I am in Mexico I have found a way to have my talk radio. My favorite is Dr. Laura, but I also like Rush and Hanity and that finance guy with the real soothing voice. It's so bad that I can't clean the house unless I have it turned on.

2) I love Andrew Lloyd Weber. Almost anything of his is great. I especially like his latest called Whistle Down the Wind.

3) I always clean my house in the exact same order. I have tried to clean out of order and I find that it takes me longer and I will forget to do something. Maybe I'm a bit OCD, but at least the work gets done (as long as I have talk radio on)!

4) I LOVE when the weather changes. I have to admit, I miss the weather in Lubbock. I love this time of year when it cools down and the leaves change, then it gradually gets colder until it's freezing! Then, as you get sick of the cold it starts to warm up. Then summer comes and the days are long so you can play outside for sooo long! Love it!!!!!!!!

5) I can't sleep with socks on. It makes no difference how cold it gets, if they are on, I can't sleep.

6) My favorite time of day is at night. I love, after a long, busy day, to put the kids to bed, have the house already clean and sit. I like to watch TV with Chris, or read a good book.

7) I love reading my friends blogs. I feel like I have reconnected with so many "old" friends through the web. I have reconnected with almost my whole AIM team and other classmates. I love having Christian friends. It is nice to be able to keep in touch even though we are so far away.

8) I love my AIM girls more then they know. Working with AIM has been the most rewarding work I have ever been a part of. Their are a few I may encourage, but the reality is, they encourage me more then anything. They have brought me friendship and a since of excitement for God that I had been lacking. I treasure my time with them.

I will tag: April, Nancy, Susan and Lucy

Happy Birthday Sweetheart!!!

2007-09-27T06:16:00.000-07:00

So today will be the 10th birthday of yours that we will celebrate together. Our first was your 22nd birthday in Glasgow, Scotland. On that one we went ice skating, ate, watched a movie, and ate some more. This is your 4th birthday celebrated living in Mexico. It is funny to me that out of the 10 birthdays we have celeberted 5 of them have been outside of the US. Wow!

I thought for your birthday I would write 101 things I know about you (I totally stole the idea from Beau but I will write about my husband NOT myself! Ha Ha!)

1. You like to sleep in.

2. You like Superman.

3. You think you are too old for Superman.

4. You talk to yourself in the shower.

5. You like to buy my jewelery.

6. You love to read your Bible.

7. Working with AIM is your passion.

8. You would rather eat frozen burritos then tacos al pastor.

9. You have glasses.

10. You never wear your glasses.

11. You have to make sure the door is locked two times before we live the house.

12. You drive a Dodge Caravan.

13. You would rather drive a Mustang.

14. You love the Dallas Cowboys.

15. You love the fact that I love the Denver Broncos.

16. You are a great artist.

17. You would love to paint.

18. The thing you miss most about the states are the Saturdays you spent with Guy at the Caboose watching college football.

19. You are a lloyal friend.

20. Your friends mean more to you then anything.

21. You like being out of the house.

22. You love mac 'n' cheese.

23. You are a very picky eater.

24. You love to grill in cold weather.

25. You want to live near your family.

26. You have learned to love seafood.

27. You love your in-laws.

28. Your in-laws love you.

29. Your family loves you.

30. You love the GTO state fair.

31. You have lived in three countries.

32. You are 32 years old.

33. You have visted more then 10 countires.

34. You have green eyes.

35. Your kids have your green eyes.

36. You have 1 nephew and 2 nieces.

37. You love your kids.

38. You have taken up photography and want to put pictures up all over the house.

39. You took Christian to a Dallas game when he was 10 mos old.

40. You always try to do the right thing.

41. You seek wise counsel.

42. Learning more about God is a high priority.

43. You always seek for God's will in your life.

44. You have a guitar.

45. You sometimes play the guitar.

46. You sleep in the left side of the bed.

47. You are messy (I'm not complaining it's just a fact!).

48. You are allergic to cats.

49. Your son loves you more then anyone.

50. You like your icetea with sweet-n-low.

51. You are addicted to Arizona green tea.

52. You like to be outdoors.

53. You want to eat healthy.

54. You get upset when I try to cook healthy.

55. You are 6'1"

56. You were named after your Dad.

57. Our son is named after you.

58. You only buy Vans (tennis shoes).

59. You take our kids out for Daddy-daughter-son time.

60. You like to play ping-pong.

61. You have a 4.0 in grad school.

62. You like to grill hambugers, steak and sausage.

63. You like to travel.

64. You like to learn about places.

65. You are addicted to YouTube.

66. Billy Joel is your favorite singer.

67. You like Elton John songs sung by other peolpe.

68. Your favorite movie is Braveheart.

69. Your AIMers look up to you.

70. You cannot multitask.

71. You like to watch The Office and Smallville.

72. You will only eat Jif peanutbutter.

73. You take the trash out!

74. You will do about anything I ask.

75. I know you love me.

76. You say a prayer with the kids every morning before school.

77. You like to teach.

78. Your favorite fast food is Taco Villa.

79. Your favorite pizza is Papa John's.

80. You like Red Lobster.

81. When you are eating, you are wondering about your next meal.

82. You don't anger easy.

83. You love to watch movies.

84. You don't snack.

85. You carry around about 30 keys.

86. You would swim through shark infested water to bring me a lemonade.

87. You like 80's music.

88. You like to skate.

89. You don't play sports.

90. You prefere coke.

91. You like Carl's Jr

92. You like going to Chili's for their chips and salsa and icetea.

93. You like to eat out.

94. When you are stressed you like to spend money.

95. You like to do things as a family.

96. You have always worked hard so that I could stay home with our kids.

97. You want to protect our kids from the world.

98. You like politics.

99. You are a Republican.

100. You have never read a fiction book.

101. You are a man after God's own heart.

I just want you to know today that I love you soooooooo much!!

The dreaded conversation...

2007-09-21T15:27:00.000-07:00

So, as Alison starts to grow up she has started asking the dreaded questions. For example, "where do babies come from"? So in our best she-is-only-7 way, we explained to her about the "birds and the bees" today. Her response, "I am NOT getting married!"

A good Daddy!

2007-09-18T17:59:00.000-07:00

I have always thought of Chris as a good Daddy, but when he wanted frames for pictures of the kids as a birthday present, I knew he must be the best Daddy ever!!!!!

(I should also mention, there could be no better a husband out there!)

Can you remember where you were?

2007-09-11T17:21:00.000-07:00

I know that today is the 6th anniversary of 9/11. I'm sure that that is what is on everyone's mind. But 9/11 means something different for me. It wasn't 9-11-01 but 9-11-02. On this day 5 years ago I sat, with my Mom, in the office of a surgeon. He explained to me that the tumor was on my left ovary. It was the size of a grapefruit, which was probably about the same size as my baby. I was five months pregnant when I found out I had to have surgery. I would have the surgery the next day, 9-12-02. The doctors pulled my womb outside of my body in order to get behind him, Christian, and remove the tumor as well as my left ovary. This night was one of the worst nights of my life. I was scared. I was scared that I would lose my baby. But I put the life of myself and my unborn son into Gods hands as he directed and gave the doctors the ability to accomplish this surgery and save the life of myself as well as my sweet boy.

Now Christian is going to school. He is a shy little boy who has to say a prayer every morning to go to school. When I get there in the afternoon to pick him up he is the only kid standing with his backpack on holding his lunch box. The other kids are all playing on the playground. He has a sweet nature. His best friend is his Daddy, but when he crawls into bed, on the rare occasion, it is me he cuddles with. I can tell that God has big plans for him. On this day five years ago God knew that I would be sitting here 5 years later watching my little one color. I pray that Chris and I are raising our children to love God above all else!

Hard Times.

2007-09-11T07:10:00.000-07:00

I found this poem and it touched me. We have been going through such a hard time lately. This poem makes me think of my relationship with God during these "Hard Times".

THE HARD TIMES by Henry L. Hunt

It sometimes takes the hard times, to show how much I love you;

Just how much I need to always have you near.

And even though I know it, I still have to learn it.

The hard times help to teach me, just how much I care.

For when the hard times bring us back together

We are always closer than before

Then I realize I love you better, and I am

Thankful for the hard times, that make me love you more.

A lot of things can happen, if we go on together.

I can't know just what, the future has in store.

I'll love you in the glad times, the easy and the sad times.

And even in the hard times, I will love you more.

For when the hard times bring us back together

We are always closer than before

Then I realize I love you better, and I am

Thankful for the hard times, that make me love you more.

Watching the work blossom!!!

2007-09-01T11:29:00.000-07:00

Thursday night we always go over to Patricia and Martin's house for our weekly small group. This family started coming to church about a year ago. I can't express what a great family they are. They have four children all of whom are wonderful. Martin and Patricia and they oldest daughter Evelyn have all given there lives to God. Chris and I started working with them about 6 months ago and this last Thursday I sat in awe of how they are growing. Martin lead the group in the discussion and I was challenged and amazed by his depth and insight. During that study time Patricia talked about how discouraging it can be when you are door knocking to invite people to small group and they won't even answer the door. Yes, she took it upon herself to go doorknocking in order to grow the small group bible study so that more people can learn about the power of God's word. Wow! I think I was even a little rebuked by her desires!

On another note, Martin and Patricia invited Chris and I out to a movie last night. We left our kids at their house and their daughter Evelyn watched all the kids, she is so brave!! Anyways, we had more fun then we have had in a long time! God is truly blessing us with some good friends!

Big Steps...

2007-08-21T18:03:00.000-07:00

Well, yesterday the kids started school. Alison is in the first grade and changed schools from last year. She is actually going to the "same" school but moved out of the small kinder and into the BIG elementary school. She was very excited and has had a great first couple of days!

Christian went yesterday for his first day of school. It was awful. He was screaming for us as his teacher lead him away. When we picked him up his eyes were puffy and he started crying again when he saw us...However, today was great. He went into to school just fine and came out telling us all the fun things he did! I think he'll be fine! (And yes, I cried yesterday too!)

I will post some pics as soon as blogger cooperates!

University of Phoenix

2007-08-10T13:22:00.000-07:00

Well I manged to get an A in my last class, Algebra II! I don't know how I did but I am excited! It was a very hard class. So far straight A's! So Mom & Dad, do I still get a couple dollars per A?

Happy 7th Birthday Sweetheart!!!!

2007-08-10T12:27:00.000-07:00

Can anyone believe that my baby is 7!!! I can't believe it! What a precious jewel I have for a daughter! We had a lot of fun celebrating this year. We went and picked up four of her friends from church and had a blast! Her friends that came were Madison, Emma, Bela and Maria. First we went and had pizza, then we went to the mall and played in this really cool play area. After that we came back to the house for cake and ice cream! After the cake we played dress up! It was a fun and special day! Alison is just the greatest kid! Here are some pics!

Eating Pizza!!!

Maria on the big slide...

Christian having some fun!

All the girls wore their favorite princess crown!

The cake!

Blowing out candles...

The gifts!

It was a fun day!

1st day in Houston...

2007-07-01T12:51:00.000-07:00

Well we made it to Houston on Friday evening without a problem! Yesterday (Saturday) we had fun going to the Kemeh Boardwalk! It was fun! Today we went to church and then the kids went swimming...in the bathtub because it was raining outside!!! Here are some pics from our first couple of days!

The kids stayed far away from the stingrays...

Aspen enjoyed them though!!!

Chris feeding a stingray...

The stingrays were amazing!!!

Swimming...in the bath!

Aspen LOVED the swim time!!!

My Girl...

2007-06-25T16:33:00.000-07:00

Alison had a school play last week. She did a great job on her lines! I was a beaming momma! I just can't believe that I was so blessed with this little girl. After all my efforts to corrupt, she is still managing to become this beautiful creature with a heart of gold. She sometimes cries when thinking about people less furtunite, she likes to tuck her brother into bed and she wants to be a doctor when she grows up so that she can help people! She is amazing and teaches me so much about the person I ought to be. Did I mention that her best friend is God, and that she prays to him for EVERYTHING? I LOVE my little girl, my little-bit!!!!!!!!

A funny story...

2007-06-18T08:45:00.000-07:00

Kids are so funny and I thought I would post about what Alison said yeaturday...

On the way to church a man nearly walked out in front of our car while we were driving. Fortunitly he realized this and turned around to get back up on the sidewalk. Then he prosided to scold his "imaginary" friend, I guess for almost letting him get run over by a car. Alison asked about his strange behavior so we decided to tell her about drinking alcohol and that this man was probably drunk and that's why he was talking to his imaginary friend. After the story she paused for a minute and then asked, "Do I drink that stuff because I have two imaginary friends?". Kids are great! I try to remember that every day!

We are really looking forward to our trip to the states!

A new chapter...

2007-05-20T20:09:00.000-07:00

Today we had our first service at our "new" building. This building is a hugh step up from the last one. We now have 4, yes I said 4, stories. We have 4 bathrooms and a full kitchen. Last week we spent a lot of time moving in, and today we had over 80 people in attendance! God is doing big things here in Leon!

My Two Best Friends...

2007-05-16T19:11:00.000-07:00

I thought these pictures were worth showing everyone! I friend of Nancy's took these photos. I think they both look so beautiful! I miss them so much! Guy and Nan and little Aspen will be moving to Houston in the next couple of weeks. They will be working as youth ministers in a church there. I am so proud and excited for them. Say a prayer as they deal with the stress of moving! I LOVE YOU GUYS!!!!!!

A visit to Guadalajara...

2007-05-09T20:20:00.000-07:00

We had such a good time visiting our friends Kim and Tim Rush in Guadalajara. It was a time to be with friends and to be encouraged. I always enjoy my time with them!

Guys, we had a great time, thanks for all you do!

The kids did so much playing, they had sooo much fun!

Eating dinner with ALL the missionary families at one of our favorite hamburger joints "Buffalo Burger". It was a nice evening.

Can you see all 5 kids that were sleeping in 1 room?

Pics from our "Kids Day" celebration.

2007-04-30T08:50:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pics from Friday night. I was a fun time!

Getting Better...

2007-04-30T08:39:00.000-07:00

Someone needs to get out! This morning Alison decided that she wanted to go swimming in the bath! (Don't you love our baths in Mexico!) Alison had a really bad day yesturday. She couldn't eat or drink ANYTHING. But she is doing better this morning. She woke with a bad headache, so I gave her some food and she seems to be better. She didn't go to school today, tomarrow is a holiday and Friday will be a Holiday as well. So, she only will have school twice this week! Lucky girl!

Called home...

2007-04-29T15:35:00.000-07:00

We received the news today that our dear friend and an elder from Sudan Church of Christ has passed away. If anyone has visited Sudan with us you will remember "Pudd" Wiseman. He was a very tall but gentle man. He made Chris and I feel so welcomed when we first started working out at Sudan. He was someone we could always count on. He loved God and served His church for many years. Please say a prayer for his wife, Kay, and his brother, Calvin. They are also people whom we love out at Sudan.

Pudd Wiseman

Psalm 23
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,

he leads me beside quiet waters,
he restores my soul.

He guides me in paths of righteousness

for his name's sake.
Even though I walk

through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil,

for you are with me;

your rod and your staff

they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me

in the presence of my enemies.

You anoint my head with oil;

my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me

all the days of my life,

and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

This weekend...

2007-04-29T07:35:00.000-07:00

Well, this last weekend was supposed to be super busy, and it still was pretty busy but we ended up taking care of sick babies, and Chris had to take care of a sick wife! Friday night was our annuel kids day celebration. This year the AIMers were in charge and they had fun boths, lots of candy and hotdogs to eat. They did a great job and it was fun to not be in charge! I went with Alison while Chris stayed home with Christian. Then Saturday Chris took the kids, while I stayed home sick, to help out a children's home. They had asked for volunteer's to help watch over 100 kids at a park. Saturday night I was suppose to go to our bi-monthly ladies class, but I was to attached to my bathroom to make it. That leads us to today, Sunday. I was suppose to go to church and then out to lunch, instead I am sitting at home, still a bit sick but mostly taking care of my TWO sick kids! I hope this weekend ends soon!!!!!!

Since we weren't busy enough...

2007-04-26T14:42:00.000-07:00

Well, it seems like I will have a break from the hussle and bussle of life. Christian is sick again. Alison felt bad this morning, but Christian seems to have the worst of the bug. So I have had to put off some things in order to take care of my babies. Tomarrow we celebrate "kids day" here in Mexico. I had plans on buying lots of candy and goodies, but I guess we will have to do that some other time 8(

What can I say, he's adorable!

2007-04-22T15:42:00.000-07:00

The other day the four of us decided to take a walk to the store for an icecream. On the way there we past a puppy. Christian noticed the puppy and asked if we could take him home. I explained that we couldn't and we went on to the store. On the way home in the same spot where the puppy was a dog, same color, just bigger. Christian pointed excitedly and said "Mommy the puppy grew up!" It was very sweet and cute and I hope that I get to hang on to my innocent little boy a little longer!

In case you didn't know...

2007-04-20T16:30:00.000-07:00

...I have the cutest niece in the world! I thought she deserved some BLOG time! So here is some pictures of my sweet Aspen Belle!

Sharing a laugh with Aunt Jessica.
Trading kids for playtime...

Alison LOVED her cousin...

All smiles...

Did I mention how cute she is?

I'm back!!!!

2007-04-19T15:20:00.000-07:00

Yeah!!!! The blogger issue is over and done with! I have it figured out and shouldn't have any more problems. So hopefully I will be posting alot more. I know I have alot to catch everyone up on, so I will try to dedicate tonight to doing that!

This beautiful baby is Chris' 4 month old niece, Aspen. We got to visit them about a week ago. Chris' grandfather, CT Johnson passed away, so we headed up to Lubbock with James and Erin Henderson for the funeral. It was under sad circumstances, but it was nice to see everyone. I had meet Aspen already but Chris and the kids had not. It was a quick trip, but the drive was not bad and we were so blessed to get to see our families!

Aspen and Uncle Chris!!!!!
The kids altogether for the first time. We arrived in Lubbock on Easter Sunday.

In other news, I have started UOP! I am officially working on my bachlors degree. In about 4 years I will have my BS in Buissness/Finance! I am so excited and so far, so good!

Busy, busy, busy...

2007-02-27T10:24:00.000-08:00

Well, the past month has been crazy. Planting, and growing, a church keeps one busier then you can imagine. But the work is rewarding! This past month we have been sooo busy, it seems like we are going every minute! Well, last night we were halted! A friends father passed away and last night was the night were they stay up all night with the family. Chris was about to leave when we heard this awful cry from Christian. Of course we ran in to find him throwing up! His stomach must have really hurt because he was really screaming. Chris was not sure about leaving, but in the end we knew he should minister to this family. At about 12:30 he called to check on us and I had not yet gone to bed. Chris told me that he was at the church because a man wanted to be baptized. So after that he stopped at the farmacia for some medicine and Pedialyte. Christian continued to vomit until about 4:00 this morning. This morning things are looking better. He is drinking juice and Pedialyte. He is not eating and has a low temperature, but is up and watching all his favorite cartoons!
This my sound strange, but it is nights like last night that make me feel the best about being a stay at home mom. It was good to be able to focus just on him and not on all the other things I had to do in the morning. I love being with my kids! Next year he will start school and I think I will be so sad. Both of them are gowing up so fast! But I am happy about the decisions I have made in the past 6 years and treasure all the memories I have with them, even staying up all night!

My Baby Turns 4!!!

2007-01-22T18:22:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY...

I can't believe that Christian turned four years old today! And what a day that was four years ago. The end of a long and horrible pregnancy. For those that were there with us I'm sure you can't forgot all the tears and prayers that went into getting through the last four months after having surgery to remove a tumor. Today as we were watching Christian play we thanked God again for letting everything work out. He is a treasure in our lives and a couldn't imagine life without him! You can click here to see more pictures!

Our day was fun! We went, just the four of us, to Pizza Hut, then off to the arcade to play bowling and a bunch of other games, and then we came back to the house for cake and to open presents. Below is a picture of the cake I made him. Yes, I made this all by myself! I know, I could hardly believe it either!

Christmas...a little late.

2007-01-16T15:34:00.000-08:00

Hey, you can click here to see pictures of our Christmas! Sorry they're so late.

Alison lost her first tooth!

2007-01-16T12:34:00.000-08:00

I few weeks ago Alison lost her first tooth! Of course she got a visit from the tooth fairy who left her $20 pesos (about $2)!!

The fair is back!

2007-01-15T11:06:00.000-08:00

Our favorite time of the year is back! It's fair time again! Some highlights so far...

1. The food!!!
2. Alison road her first big rollercoaster! I know she is only six, but she loved it and even raised her arms on the drops!
3. The dolphin show!
4. You can see the pictures here

I think it's fixed...

2007-01-15T08:01:00.000-08:00

I had the pictures set on private, try the link again! Let me know if it works...

Well, I don't know...

2007-01-13T06:13:00.000-08:00

Ok, after some research I can't find any blog that is as quick and easy as blogger use to be, so...I will continue to blog here, but I will upload my pictures to yahoo. I will post here to let you know when I have upload new pictures and will provide the links. I hope that everyone will still be able to enjoy my blog and watch as my kids grow and do amazing things!

Right now you can see pictures from our Thanksgiving trip, Alison learning to ride a bike & my trip to Lubbock. Click the link below or cut and paste it into your browser. I hope this works. If you do have problems please leave me a commet! Thanks!!!

CLICK HERE TO SEE NEW PICTURES

So long blogger.

2006-12-15T05:41:00.000-08:00

Ok, so you may have noticed that I have not been blogging much lately, well, this is because I have spent hours blogging and never getting them to publish, so I will be changing my blog to something different then blogger. However I will not make the change until after the new year. So here are some things I've been dying to tell you about.

1. We went to a missionary retreat for Thanksgiving. We saw folks such as Kim and Tim Rush, Jeff and Amy Gearheart, Joe and Elain Pruett, Sean and Jenny McClue, Cory and Tony Burns, Bengy and Carolyn Brednich, James and Erin Henderson, muchos Aimers, and other missionaries. I'm sure that anyone connected with the AIM world is buring with jealousy! It was a fun and uplifting time!

2. The birth of my beautiful niece! Aspen Belle Stover was born on Nov. 27th. You can see pics at babystover.blogspot.com

3. We had a ladies retreat and women from Leon, Guadalajara, Comonfort, Teluica & Guanajuato came. And I was one of the speakers! Yes me. I don't speak in English much less in front of 70 women in Spanish, but I'm alive to talk about it! I'm just glad it's over!

4. Our team had it's 3rd annuel Christmas party! To change things up I made homemade eggnogg. I was actually really good!

5. Alison performed a ballet for her school play this year! It was very sweet! And of course she was the best one out there! Well, her and Madi!

Now for some things we are looking forward to before the year ends:

Dec. 16th - We have a choir from Mexico City coming to perform a Christmas show at the church! We are hoping to reach out to our comunity with this!

Dec.17th - Our second anuuel food drive for the church. We have been collecting food and this Sunday we will pass out 7 boxes of food to needy families. Last year we did 4!

Dec. 18th - Chris and I will take our AIMers out to a fancy dinner and give them some gifts for there hard work!

Dec. 19th - Our 8th wedding anniversary!!!!!!!!!!

Dec. 25th - Christmas, away from extended family, but they will be on our minds and in our hearts!

Dec. 27th - I'm swaping places with my in-laws! They are coming here to visit and help take care of the kids while I fly solo to Lubbock to spend a week with Nancy and my niece!

To everyone who visits this site, thank you for being interested and my family and I hope you will come back after the new year to see where I have moved my blog to.

Merry Christmas!!!!!!!!!!

Brrrrrrrr...

2006-11-21T20:18:00.000-08:00

It has been sooooo cold lately here in Leon. And with no heat in the house we have put every extra blanket we own on the beds. It is unusal for it to be this cold and not only at night but in the day as well! But I'm not complaining, it has been nice to experiance a change, I just wish I owned some warmer clothes!

Alison wins a gold medal!

2006-11-17T15:59:00.000-08:00

Alison won first place in her poetry contest on Tuesday night. She recited her poem in English and added hand movements. She was nervous, so I told her she would be like Aunt April if she did it! So she did and won first place!

This is her certificate of participation. I thought my Mom and Dad would like to see that their name is part of her legal name here in Mexico!

Team Retreat

2006-11-11T19:50:00.000-08:00

This year for our team retreat we took the long 15 minute drive outside of Leon and went and stayed the night at a water park called Comanjilla. It was fun. We had good time talking and lots of time swimming!

Swimming at the Hotel!!!

2006-11-11T19:40:00.000-08:00

The girls playing with Tana.

This is Kayson, can you believe how big she is?

Can you believe your eyes?! No floaties for this big swimmer!

All night prayer!!!

2006-11-11T19:30:00.000-08:00

It has been a while since I have posted and mainly because we are soooo busy right now! So to catch you up a few weeks ago we had an all night prayer session. We went out to a members families property and had a great time of fellowship together. I made it until 5:00 in the morning, which for me is hugh since I like to be in bed between 9:00 & 10:00! Here are some pictures of the evening. The one of the kids is them sleeping in the kitchen. The night was so rainy and cold that this was the best for them since our shelter had a roof but no walls!

Team Halloween Party!

2006-10-27T06:48:00.000-07:00

On Monday we had our team costume party. It was fun, everyone dressed up and we had alot of good food! As you can see I spent alot of money on costumes! Alison picked out a princess costume from her play clothes, and Christian went as a Dallas Cowboy! They had alot of fun!

Alison's school party!

2006-10-27T06:42:00.000-07:00

Today is Alison's school party. She went as a princess fairy! No, I have no idea what that is but I put a bunch of stuff together out of her closet and she was happy. And doesn't she look so pretty!

Washington D.C.

2006-10-17T19:24:00.000-07:00

We had a great time in Washington D.C. this last week. We stayed with the same two ladies, Linda & Marilynn. They had to give us a suitcase to bring back all the things they spoiled us with! Chris did a great job teaching and preaching! The spanish congregation was very excited to talk to us this time since last time we didn't know very much spanish. We also ate many meals with differant members of the church and everyone was so encouraging! We also got to do more sightseeing! This time we saw the Air and Space Museum, The National Archives (where they store the Constitution, Declaration of Independance ect...) and we also just did some driving and walking to enjoy the beautiful fall weather and colors! It was a great trip! To short!

Close but no cigar...

2006-10-17T18:56:00.000-07:00

On our way home today they came over the loud speaker and announced that they needed around 6 people to be bumped. So we jumped up and ran to the ticket desk because we came hoping to get bumped for the free tickets. When we got their they were offering $500 vouchers per person! So we turned in our tickets and stood to the side while our plane boarded. Anyways enough people didn't show up for the flight so they could put us on. The time we wanted to be bumped we couldn't. On the way their our flight was delayed 3hrs so we missed our connecting flight and not only did we not get vouchers they were charging for snacks! Unreal!

The Air & Space Museum

2006-10-17T16:42:00.000-07:00

One day we enjoyed the Air and Space museum. Here we are watching a 3D movie about the moon and a couple pics of the kids enojoying an exibit. It was a fun day!

Great Falls...

2006-10-17T16:30:00.000-07:00

On Saturday afternoon Marilyn took the kids and I to Great Falls, VA to enjoy some pretty scenery.

What's this?

2006-09-25T08:40:00.000-07:00

I don't think you can tell real well in this picture, but Alison and Daniel are sporting matching black eyes!

Reaching out to the comunity...

2006-09-25T08:36:00.000-07:00

Yesturday we finally had our clothes giveaway at church. We had collected clothes all year. Yesturday we had "tortas" for lunch and members of the church and community came and recieved clothes. We did get a few new contacts, so hopefully something will come of that! Overall it was a great day!

Well...

2006-09-23T20:09:00.000-07:00

Let's just say Alison was in a bit of a bad mood when we tried to get a picture of her "shinner". She fell off her chair and hit her face right on her table. Poor thing, luckily I had chewable tylonal on hand, but the next morning she was still not to happy about the large bruise under her eye. (For the Grandparents, she is doing just fine now. She has a large bump and bruise but it isn't hurting anymore.)

More Pics...

2006-09-18T20:28:00.000-07:00

Maicah looked just adorable wrapped in Alison's pink jacket.

The kids (and Lindsey) had fun dancing to the music.

The boys wearing...hats.

16 de Septiembre!! Vive Meixco!

2006-09-16T19:08:00.000-07:00

Last night (the 15th) we decided to go to Guanajuato for their Independence celebration. Let's just say it was crazy! There was a stage where a varity of singers and dancers took the stage to perform. There was so much food and tons of toys for the kids. Then at 11:00pm is when they have their "grito". Basicly this was the time when the Mexican soldiers surprised the Spanards and won the Independence of Mexico. So at 11:00pm they rang a bell and everyone screamed, blew noise makers and of course sprayed silly string all over everyone! It was so much fun! Here are the kids sitting like such big kids in the back of the van!

We found our spot around 6:00 and didn't leave until after 11:00!

Christian and his horn!
Alison got her face painted!

Off to school...

2006-09-16T19:04:00.000-07:00

This is the uniform that Alison wears every Thursday and Friday. How sofisticated!

Getting ready for school...

2006-09-12T09:10:00.000-07:00

Every Tuesday Alison wears her Tae Kwan Do uniform. Her she is showing us some of her stuff!

Christian was feeling a little left out and begged me to take a picture of him with his puppy and car.

Football season kicks off...

2006-09-10T16:09:00.000-07:00

...well, the season has officially begin and all I can really say is, I hope it gets better then this! We were both disappointed with our teams. But we will be watching the Manning faceoff tonight and I personally am going for Eli! Down with the Colts! Daddy and Christian going for the Cowboys.

Mommy and Alison are all Broncos!

Daddy loving BOTH kids unconditionaly.

The Circus

2006-09-08T14:44:00.000-07:00

We took the kids to the circus last Friday night. It was...well...different. The kids could have got their picture on an elephant, but after a leopard tried to mull a kid and then his trainer threw him (the leopard) on his shoulders and brought him out into the audience for everyone to pet, we didn't really trust the judgement of the animal trainer. The clowns were...wierd, their jokes were just a bit off. Let's just say it was a very cultural experience. I won't even go into the finale. Anyways, the kids had a good time dispite the wierdness. Here they are enjoying the show.

2006-09-08T14:41:00.000-07:00

Christian was all smiles!

We're back...

2006-09-01T08:26:00.000-07:00

Sorry about the loooooooong absence from blogging but I am finally back! In the next couple of days I will update everyone on our happenings and post pics of Alison in all her school uniforms!

Beware of the Monster...

2006-07-21T14:43:00.000-07:00

So I asked Christian to clean up his room this afternoon. All he really had to do was to put a few toys into his toy box. After a while of mostly messing around he came to tell me that he was done. Our coversation went like this:

C: I'm done, cleaning up my room.
M: So you picked up all your toys?
C: Yes, but don't go in there because there is a monster laying down on the bed.
M: Well, if I go look and see toys on the floor you will be in trouble for lying to me.
C: Well, should I shut my door?

Where do they come up with this stuff? Anyways, it made me laugh!

Funny language barriers...

2006-07-12T20:50:00.000-07:00

Well about 2 days ago we met a family from Germany while having an AIM meeting at Sam's Cafe. They are building a ranch here and have been looking for a church home. We invited them to come and worship with us! We were all very excited. Now remember, they're from Germany. They speak spanish very well and a little bit of english, so to comunicate we both speak in our second language, which is Spanish.

Today Marco, the German, showed up at the church for our prayer time. He brought a young man who came with him to work on the ranch, his name is Harry. After our prayer time I started talking to Harry(in English because he doesn't know Spanish). He is from Finland. I overheard Harry and Marco talking and assumed they were speaking in German to one another. I didn't know what they spoke in Finland so I asked Harry what his native language was. He tells me Finish (sp?). Humm? So I asked if he can speak German. No, he says. So now I'm confussed so I ask him how he and Marco communicate. In Norwegian, he answers. What!

What a funny world we live in. And the funnier thing is when Chris & I, Marco & Harry are together we really have no common language, but can manage to communicate! Funny how that happens! Plus, none of us are even from Mexico! But we are all united on one thing, we long to worship and praise our Father, in whatever language we can!

2006-07-05T05:42:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July!!!

I hope everyone enjoyed their Independence Day celebration! We enjoyed the day at a nearby water park with the AIMers and the Gary's. It was a fun day to mess around and enjoy time together. We all had fun swimming and eating! And of course we enjoyed a nice rain shower as well!

2006-07-05T05:39:00.000-07:00

We ate the best hamburgers that Chris enjoyed grilling!

2006-07-05T05:38:00.000-07:00

Daddy with the kids and Mason!

2006-07-05T05:32:00.000-07:00

So, what do you do when it starts pouring rain on your fourth of July celebration? Well...

...Chris and Tony just sucked it up and ate their watermelon in the rain!

2006-07-05T05:30:00.000-07:00

...Lindsey stole Heather's blanket!

2006-07-05T05:29:00.000-07:00

...Christian couldn't help but look adorable with his towel over his head!

2006-07-05T05:27:00.000-07:00

...I stole Lindsey's sweatshirt and Heather and I cuddled to stay warm!

2006-07-05T05:25:00.000-07:00

...and Alison went underneath the stage!

2006-07-05T05:23:00.000-07:00

We finished the night off with ice teas and chips & salsa at Chilies! It was so much fun!

2006-07-05T05:22:00.000-07:00

Us girls decided to go patriotic, red, white & blue!

Farewell and God bless..

2006-07-03T07:07:00.000-07:00

This last week we were honored to have a group of 18 come from Shawnee, OK for a campaigne trip. They worked hard around the church and the comunity. They fixed the roof of a local orphange and also fed and played with the kids there. They were also just a great encouragment for me. I went to the children's home one day with them and also showed a group around the leather markets and beautiful Guanajuato. As fun as it was to show off my beautiful city, I recieved much more from them. They were encourged by our work. They loved on my kids and listened to my stories. They asked about my life and shared with my theirs. I feel like I made several new friends that will last for years to come. When they left yesturday we tearfully exchanged e-mail addresses. It was a great week for a renewed spirit. Their devos were encouraging and so was the early morning Sunday service. What a week! Thank you all for coming and renewing my spirit!

The whole group...

2006-07-03T07:03:00.000-07:00

This is the whole group of missionaries that we now have working in Leon. We have 6 AIM students and three missionary families! The work has really started to pay off as we are starting to see nice results!

Welcome Home Soldier...

2006-06-17T06:12:00.000-07:00

Back from Iraq and already on the go again! Doesn't Wayne look great with his little boy! Wayne returned safe and sound from Iraq a few weeks ago. Now he is enjoying time with his wife and beautiful baby boy. He started back to work at Starbuck's and hopes to keep moving up the ladder there. The best to you S/Sgt. Stephens. Thank you for your courageous service to our country. Two years in Iraq! You deserve a metal!

Wow! 5 months already!

2006-06-17T06:10:00.000-07:00

Noah is such a big boy! I can hardly belive that he is 5 months old! I have so much spoiling to get into the three days I'll have with him this summer!

Sorry Sooooooooo Long...

2006-06-15T09:37:00.000-07:00

Sorry that it has been so long since I have posted. I do have plenty of excuses, the AIMers arrived so it's been crazy, our church merged so we are busy getting to know everyone, I can't find my battery charger to take and post pictures of the kids, etc...Anyways, we have been really busy, all in really good ways. Our church had hit a slump in April, but then began booming in May and continues into June. It is easy to sit back and wonder were God is working, and then to go on Sunday and see young people there whom the AIMers invited, to watch families fellowshipping together who had fallen out with one another until we arrived, to watch as family members reach out and invite there extended family and neighbors. It has just been amazing! God really working here in Leon and it is awesome! Although we still mourn those who have rejected Jesus we rejoice with those accepting Him. We have had three baptisms in the past month and will have another this Sunday! Continue to pray for our work!

2006-06-15T09:36:00.000-07:00

We hit 84 in attendance!

2006-06-15T09:34:00.000-07:00

This is Lupe and Imelda being baptized two weeks ago!