Life......or Something like it

Pictures

2011-12-12T14:37:00.000-08:00

This post is mainly gonna be pics cause I have a 9 month old getting into things and a house to unpack still. Real quick we moved into our house the middle of Nov. its great. I HATE wallpaper!!! and don't think I would recomend moving when your 5 months pregnant and have an 8 month old. I will catch up on life later for now heres some pics

Its a .......

2011-10-22T00:31:00.000-07:00

GIRL

So whats new

2011-08-11T14:37:00.000-07:00

I know I said I was gonna keep more updated on this thing but I have been horrible about it. Though I have good reasons. Ok they are excuses but they are mine.

Lets see what has been going on at our house....

In June we celebrated our 12th anniversary. I was gonna post on here about how wonderful Cale is, and he really is, but I didn't. He took me to the Davenport here in Spokane for the night. We left the boys with some friends over night. Got to actually sleep and sleep in, it was wonderful. I am so lucky.

We also went to Silverwood with my inlaws and had a great time. I love Silverwood.

Then July came and that was a pretty big month for us. For the 4th we Barbequed with some friends and went swimming, we were gonna go to the fireworks but the boys were worn out and sleeping so we just went home and put them to bed. My mom retired on the 23. Which is a very good thing for us. Because ....drum roll please.......................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

we are having a baby. Yep you read that right I am pregnant. I'm due the end of Feb/beg Mar. to say we were shocked is an understatement. A friend of ours said well this proves it God definitely has a since of humor. After 12 years and being told you have a 1 in a billion chance of getting pregnant we will,God willing, have 3 babies all about a year apart. I was gonna wait a little longer to post it on here but most everyone knows anyway. WE had our 1st ultrasound a couple weeks ago and got see the babies heart beating so we are feeling a bit more secure about things. Anyway baby's awake. I will try to write more later. I have tons of pics I need to post on here. hopefully before the kids are in school.... LOL

the boys

2011-05-25T22:35:00.000-07:00

This is what has been keeping us busy lately. not the best quality. but its something at least.

busy busy busy

2011-03-21T23:21:00.000-07:00

Life has been crazy at our house lately. Cale is still enjoying his job

I am officially at stay at home mommy. I can not even begin to tell you how much I LOVE being able to be at home. I am so grateful Cale has a job that will support our family and allow me to be home with our kiddos. Trey is growing like CRAZY. He has been teething like you wouldn't believe and now has a total of 8 teeth. He started walking in January the end of Dec and has since decided that running is way better. He is such an awesome little boy we are very blessed to have him in our family. I was looking at some pictures I took a few months ago and I can not believe how much he has grown in just a few months. He turns one in just a couple weeks. His social worker just filed termination for his bio mom because she hasn't been doing everything the state has asked her to. So in 6 months or so they will go to court, we pray that everything works out and we get to adopt him.

I guess our biggest news is that we finally got our license updated to 2 kiddos. If you read carefully in the beginning of this you may of have noticed I said staying at home with our kiddos. The day after we got our license changed we got a phone call for a brand new baby boy. We got to bring baby "J" home March 4, when he was just 4 days old. We are thrilled to have him he is such a sweet baby boy we love to pieces. He is healthy and growing like crazy, we feel so blessed that he has been so healthy, considering his bio mom was on meth among other things. He has had no withdrawal symptoms from it. We are very thankful for that. He was our lil suprise, when I went to get baby clothes from storage I discovered we had gotten rid of EVERYTHING. I am so grateful to the people we have met in our ward the friends that we have, they have been so generous in giving us things for him. So if you see us and we look like we are half dead you know why. Trey is doing great with having a little brother. He tried so hard to help, loves to give him a binky, but first he must yank it out of the babies mouth. He loves to check his eyes and to see if J has any teeth. lol.

When we got J I told Cale that we would be done until after Trey was at least 2, and J was over 1 if God willing we get to keep them. but surprise surprise. When the social workers came to do a home visit, coincidently was the same day we brought J home they told us that trey bio mom was expecting again. We have no idea when she is due, but they are already talking about placing that baby with us so they can keep the siblings together, which would require special permission to do. We don't know yet if we will be able to or even if the state will allow it since that would be 3 under 2. But we will have to REALLY pray hard about it. So anyway thats our life at the moment feed babies, change diapers, play and start all over again. And throw is some laundry and dishes once in awhile, maybe vacuum occasionally LOL. Sounds like someone needs a bottle. I will try to post more often. Since I can't post pics of the boys on here yet, if you send me your email addy i will send you some pics

Life

2011-01-12T14:01:00.001-08:00

I haven't kept up on this blog as well as I should have. But the fact that this pot isn't like 6 months after my last one is an improvement. right? LOL I do have pics I could post but most of them include our lil man and we aren't allowed to post pics of him on line So sorry. Though if you are wanting to see the cutest baby in the world email me and I can email you a pic. Things are good here. We went to Moses Lake for thanksgiving had a great time. We decided to stay in Spokane for Christmas. We figured we went there for Thanksgiving so they could all come here for Christmas :) My parents came up for Christmas which was nice we spent Christmas eve with my brother and sis in law and then my parents came over to our place Christmas morning. It was really relaxed, which made it so nice. having a baby at Christmas is the best!! he was so much fun. He really is an awesome baby. I am still babysitting. I had really hoped to be done by the first of the year but the dads relief couldn't pass his medical eval. which was a huge bummer. for me adn his family. So now he is supposed to be hom the 26th of Jan. I hope so, I don't feel right telling the kids mom sorry but you have to find someone else till he gets home, but if he goes past Jan it may come to that. I have appts and different things that I have to go to that I can't change. So now that I have all that out of the way lets talk about Trey. LOL so our lil man is growing like a weed I wish I could post pics on here but I can't if you wnt a pic leave me a coment with your email and I will email you one. Its amazing how much he has changed in just a few months. He is becomming more adn more of a little boy and less of my baby everyday. Which I have mixed feelings on. He's started crawling that lasted about 2 days and now he thinks he needs to walk, which we means he climbs up on our lap slides down and grabs your fingers turns and looks at you ready to go. He loves to talk and to sing I took him to primary with me a few times and he "sang" louder than the rest of the kids. He's up I wil have to finish this later

no excuses

2010-11-02T10:40:00.000-07:00

I could make excuse after excuse for not blogging on here, but the real reason is well I've been busy and unmotivated. Mostly just un motivated LOL. Though we have legitamitally had lots going on. I could write pages adn pages to catch up but I am just going to give you all the readers digest version. WE moved back to Spokane the end of June YEA!! We love being back. I have missed the tree's and the shopping is just a tad better than Moses Lake. LOL Cale is loving his job, it can be stressfull but its a good kind of stress. I started working as a nanny for a friend of ours in Aug, but will be done mid december. :)

We went to Green bluff for the firdt time this year, with our friends Joe and Brenda and we got lucky and our friends Bill and Maggie, who moved far far away but came to visit. It ws so awesome I think we will make it a new tradition every year to go up there.

My brother and his wiafe announced that they are expecting sometime the end of March. We just found out they are having a girl. March is going to be a HUGE birthday month in our family.

Our biggest news and a big part of what is keeping us soo busy is we recently got relicensed as fosterparents a few weeks ago with the state. a few days later we got an adorable 6 month old baby boy. Well he is officialy 7 months now. LOL. We are hoping and praying that we will get to keep him and make him apart of our family forever. But its too soon to tell. He is an absolute delight always happy, unless he's tired or hungry and a total momma boy, which I LOVE So I am totally looking forward to being done working in Dec so I can stay home with him. right now we are teething we got our first tooth last tuesday and another one poked through the next day. So we are a little sleep deprived, especially on visit days but so unbelievably happy.

Sounds like naptime is about over.

I solemly promise to keep this more updated. and not wait months in between posts

OFFICIAL Grandpa Dancing to Lady Gaga VIDEO

2010-08-03T10:33:00.000-07:00

Never Give Up

2010-07-05T19:42:00.000-07:00

Many of you may have seen this before. But I felt it was worth posting. A little reminder to NEVER give up

A Boy Singing to his little sister..... You are My Sunshine, My only Sunshine' (Be prepared to get watery eyes!) Like any good mother, when Karen found out that another baby was on the way, she did what she could to help her 3-year-old son, Michael, prepare for a new sibling. They found out that the new baby was going be a girl, and day after day, night after night, Michael sang to his sister in mommy's tummy. He was building a bond of love with his little sister before he even met her. The pregnancy progressed normally for Karen. In time, the labor pains came. Soon it was every five minutes, every three, every minute. But serious complications arose during delivery and Karen found herself in hours of labor. Would a C-section be required? Finally, after a long struggle, Michael's little sister was born. But she was in very serious condition. With a siren howling in the night, the ambulance rushed the infant to the neonatal intensive care unit. The days inched by. The little girl got worse. The pediatrician had to tell the parents there is very little hope. Be prepared for the worst. Karen and her husband contacted a local cemetery about a burial plot. They had fixed up a special room in their house for their new baby but now they found themselves having to plan for a funeral. Michael however, kept begging his parents to let him see his sister. I want to sing to her, he kept saying. Week two in intensive care looked as if a funeral would come before the week was over. Michael kept nagging about singing to his sister, but kids are never allowed in Intensive Care. Karen decided to take Michael whether they liked it or not. If he didn't see his sister right then, he may never see her alive. She dressed him in an oversized scrub suit and marched him into ICU. He looked like a walking laundry basket. The head nurse recognized him as a child and bellowed, 'Get that kid out of here now. No children are allowed!' The mother rose up strong in Karen, and the usually mild-mannered lady glared steel-eyed right into the head nurse's face, her lips a firm line. 'He is not leaving until he sings to his sister' she stated. Then Karen towed Michael to his sister's bedside. He gazed at the tiny infant losing the battle to live. After a moment, he began to sing. In the pure-hearted voice of a 3-year-old, Michael sang: 'You are my sunshine, my only sunshine, you make me happy when skies are gray.' Instantly the baby girl seemed to respond. The pulse rate began to calm down and become steady. 'Keep on singing, Michael,' encouraged Karen with tears in her eyes. 'You never know, dear, how much I love you, please don't take my sunshine away.' As Michael sang to his sister, the baby's ragged, strained breathing became as smooth as a kitten's purr 'Keep on singing, sweetheart.' 'The other night, dear, as I lay sleeping, I dreamed I held you in my arms' Michael's little sister began to relax as rest, healing rest, seemed to sweep over her. 'Keep on singing, Michael.' Tears had now conquered the face of the bossy head nurse. Karen glowed. 'You are my sunshine, my only sunshine. Please don't take my sunshine away.' The next day...the very next day. the little girl was well enough to go home Woman's Day Magazine called it The Miracle of a Brother's Song. The medical staff just called it a miracle. Karen called it a miracle of God's love. NEVER GIVE UP ON THE PEOPLE YOU LOVE. LOVE IS SO INCREDIBLY POWERFUL. Life is good. Have a Wonderful Day! In God We Trust! 'The evidence of God's presence far outweighs the proof of His absence.'

My man !!

2010-07-03T21:50:00.000-07:00

And oh what a man he is. I wanted to add these pic of Cale hard at work doing the "man" thing. We got a couple new additions to our family today and he has been hard at work putting stuff together. Also threw in a pic of his battle scars on his knee.

gross out

2010-07-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

Ok so it has come to my attention that there is a gross amount of people who use the bathroom and then go right out the door and don't bother to wash there hands. I understand the little kids, that's a kid thing you just have to remind them, but when you have grown, educated adults, even those in the medical profession, who use the bathroom and then walk out the door with out washing is DISGUSTING. Are people really that lazy they can't take 2 minutes to wash their hands? I don't get grossed out by much, but that thought just makes me sick to my stomach. There has been a HUGE push the last several years about germs and being clean and sanitary you would think people would make sure they wash their hands. I mean really come on people. The things that you touch, other people have to touch and I personally don't want to be touching a door nob or anything else that has been touched by someone who doesn't wash their hands after they go to the bathroom. Anyway I was completely disgusted and thought the rest of you should all share in my disgust. LOL I found this lovely guide in case there is anyone you know who may need some assistance in that area.

The kids

2010-06-27T07:22:00.000-07:00

I am sure there have been a few curious readers who have wondered about how the kids are doing or even a few who may have missed our previous blogs about what happened. So here goes, The beginning of April Cale and I flew the kids down to Cali to live with their grandma, hardest thing I have ever done in my life so far. Anyway for some reason I have had them on my mind lately, so maybe that's a hint that I should update you guys as to how they are doing. So to answer some questions that we have gotten, no we have not talked to or seen them since we dropped them off, its better right now for them as well as us if we don't have any contact with them we are hoping to be able to send them little cards and what not occasionally sometime in the future maybe get pics from them but that is all up to their grandma, though she did talk about us coming down to visit occasionally eventually. We do have some contact with her through email. She has told us that the kids are doing pretty good, they have had some rough moments, I am sure they have, but that overall they are adjusting. I was thinking about it the other day and while it seems like it has been such along time it has really only been 3 months, it was this time last year we were getting ready for them. So anyway the kids are doing good overall. I am going to go ahead and post our family pic with the kids on here, I only ask that no one take it and copy and paste it. The other question that we have been getting alot is do we plan to keep doing this. The answer is yes we do in fact this time it will be much easier to get placements because Cale no longer works for the state and that allows us to get kids from Eastern Washington. In fact we are having our inspection in July so we can start doing respite again. We had originally decided that we were going to give it a year before we even talked about babies and what not. Well we made it almost 3 months all I can say is its all Jon and Treva's fault for having such cute kids. We went over to their house just after they had had their 2nd baby and our resolve melted. So who knows what well happen or when but when /if it does we will welcome it whether its getting pregnant after almost 11 years or getting a baby from the state. We are just putting our trust in the Lord and not worrying about it. So we will see what the future holds for us.

Way over due

2010-06-27T07:03:00.000-07:00

Ok I have so needed to update this with a real update not the little tid bits here and there. I figured that since its like 7am and I am up, why am I up at this un earthly hour I have no idea, but I might as well get it done, I will probably do this in a few different posts other wise they will all get smashed together. Our biggest news is we are back in Spokane YEA!!! We are actually back in the same complex as before, we are in the front this time instead of the very back. Our place is about 100 square ft smaller and we have down sized to a 2 bedroom, but we are making it work, finding all kinds of creative places to put things.So far I have only been to Walmart once, I love having shopping options!!We are loving being back in Spokane. I have slacked off hardcore with taking pics but am going to do better, as soon as I find my camera. LOL. I will post some pics of our place as soon as we get a few more things unpacked and organized. Our move out went really well we had so much help both moving from Moses Lake and into our new place. Major thanks to everyone who helped us out you are rock stars. Especially our friends Tony and Katie who drove all the way to Moses Lake from Spokane to help us. On a side note we bought a season pass to Silverwood and have already gone once. YEA!! I even went back on the roller coasters, I did last year, I even braved it and opened my eyes this time LOL. I am so excited to go back in a few weeks. Next time I will take pics promise. On to the next topic......

Its here

2010-06-18T23:21:00.000-07:00

its finally here tomorrow is the day. We say good bye once again to Moses Lake and Hello to Spokane. We're excited and a bit nervous but we have been pretty calm about getting stuff done and ready. We are actually just about done with all the packing and only have just little misc items to throw in a box someplace. We will update this better later. with how life is going and what new. And also on how the kids are doing in their new home, I know there are some who would like to know.

Sad News....

2010-06-11T17:38:00.000-07:00

My dad called me a little while ago to tell me that my little dog Sadie died today. She was really old and in alot of pain, especially in the last couple of weeks, it was really sad. So it's good that she is in a better place now and without all that pain. Sadie was MY dog even though my brothers will probably argue other wise, but I got her from the pound when I was probably in Jr High. I picked her out and paid for her, she was so cute and I wanted her so badly.In fact I think I just kinda went to the pound and got her and brought her home, I don't think I even really asked my parents about it. She was such a good little dog, she was so sweet and never really barked at anyone. She loved when the kids came over because they lavished her with love, ok mauled her was more like it but she also knew that if the kids were there she would get an endless supply of treats :) cause we all know grandma can't say no to "just one more PLEEAASSSEEE!! she REEAAALLYY needs it" Anytime I went over there she would always look to see if the kids were there too. We knew this was coming, she has been getting worse but it is still really sad. We will miss you Sadie

Listen to calenandsharons playlist

2010-06-11T09:37:00.001-07:00

MOVING SALE!!!

2010-06-09T15:50:00.000-07:00

ok this is a shameless plug but oh well. I want all this stuff GONE!!! MOVING SALE!! EVERYTHING MUST GO PRICED TO SELL 930 LOWRY ST JUNE 12, 8AM BUNK BEDS, BABY FURNITURE CLOTHES, WASHER & DRYER EXERCISE EQUIPMENT, ELECTRONICS MOVIES,BOOKS TOYS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!!! Also anyone want to buy a car??? LOL Thanks for indulging me everyone I promise to get back to our regularly scheduled blogging as soon as life settles down again LOL. I know you are all dying to here the latest in the Merkley Saga.

2010-05-31T15:26:00.001-07:00

I promised I would update this and catch everything up so I am going to try while I have a few minutes. About a month ago I found out the the Celtic Women were coming to Spokane. Cale and I love them. So I decided that I would suprise him with tickets. It was harder than you might think cause I had to make sure he could take the afternoon off, before I could even get the tickets. Trying to get him to find out with out him knowing why, took some persuading. :) But he did out and he didn't even ask all that many questions. Cause we all know I would have caved and told him. I did really good until about a week or so before the concert and I told him. I can keep a secret just not from him, so for me to go about 3 weeks and not say anything I think has to be some kind of record for me. Anyway we went to dinner and to the concert. I smuggled my camera in and we took some pics of each other before the concert, but the ushers made everyone put their cameras away before they started. So that kinda sucked. So we didn't really get any pics from the performance. But they had this AWESOME bag pipe player who has played for the Olympics and the Pope. He was awesome. He came out after the performance in the hall and was playing for people as they left so of course we all stood around him and took more pictures of him. We had a blast getting home after midnight and having to get up for work the next day it was all worth it. I don't know why the pictures are all screwy but it the best I could do for now. I quit my job last Friday so I am officially back to being a housewife for the time being anyway. There was alot of DRAMA going on where I work and I got tired of it. I'm not going to go into alot of detail cause well I'm not I don't want to type all that on here, If you really want to know email me or call me. I am home busier than ever before but at home. Our big major news is that.......................WE ARE MOVING!!! Cale found out last week that he got the job in Spokane so we will be moving June 19 the day after our 11 anniversary. We got a place in North Spokane, its actually where we lived before, so we know the complex pretty well. We have a HUGE court yard and the pool is right in our yard so we don't have to walk to the other side of the complex this time. So as you can see I have tons of stuff to do to get ready in 2 1/2 weeks, I will give you all more details later as I find time. Love ya all

ok

2010-05-24T14:57:00.000-07:00

Lots of different stuff going on. for those who know a little about whats up a final decision will be made Friday. I will play catch up later with pics too, right now I think I am going to take a nap and hope my head ache goes away

Its offical

2010-05-12T13:09:00.000-07:00

Ok after weeks of indecision and going back and forth on what to do, I made a decision. I have officially given my notice as of June 1 I will no longer be employed with the Family Support Agency I will officially be unemployed. I have gone back and forth on this for quite awhile but in light of current events and changes that may be coming I gave notice today. I feel AWESOME!! now to just get through the next 2 1/2 weeks. LOL. If you want the gruesome details email me and I will send you a private message.

more camping pics

2010-04-29T13:31:00.000-07:00

Camping.............. yes there's pictures

2010-04-27T09:49:00.001-07:00

So this weekend was opening season for fishing and we have some friends who are huge into fishing and camping. So we went camping this weekend with them. We went up to Sunlakes just out side of Soap Lake. I hadn't been there it probably at least 20 years (how sad is it I can honestly say things like that)It was beautiful and we had a BLAST despite the massive wind storm we had Friday night up to 60 mph winds and the fact that we left our tent poles at home and we had to share a tent with our friends, which turned out to be a HUGE blessing considering their tent was pretty much destroyed by the wind. I think we have only gone camping like twice since we've been married, We have so caught the camping bug and are definitely going to be doing more camping this summer. The best part was I had my camera so I got some awesome shots. I haven't edited them at all yet so you will have to make due with the raw image. LOL. Ok so I don't know whats freaking wrong with blogger today but it wont let me load hardly in pictures and the ones it does are all screwy so here's a few of the pics from our camping trip last weekend. I will try and post some more later.

HALLEIGHLUIA!!!

2010-04-22T22:46:00.000-07:00

YEA!!! I FINALLY found the battery charger for my camera. I can start taking pictures again. Just in time for our camping trip this weekend. Pics coming soon

Enough is Enough

2010-04-07T09:08:00.001-07:00

I have really debated if I would actually post this and have started this post several times and have yet to post any of them, but I have had enough and since this is supposed to be my online journal I am going to. We know that a lot of people don't agree with decisions that were made in regards to these kids. And a lot of nasty rumors have been started about Cale and I and our inability to be good parents. Cale and I had to make some really tough decisions about the kids, these were not decisions that were made lightly but we stressed and debated over, but were made with what was recommended to us and what we knew was in the kids best interest, not ours or anyone else. So if you are one of those who have had a thing or two to say about this situation we just ask that you remember that there are 2 sides to everything.

Update

2010-04-07T08:19:00.000-07:00

The flight down went better than we thought it would all things considered, especially the part with the kids missing their naps. We hit quite a bit of turbulence, she loved it she would laugh and grin and say again again, I want it to be bumpy. It was a riot. She finally fell asleep on the plane after we left Portland and slept for about 2 hours, Lucky for grandma, who when we talked to her Sat. she said Katie didn't go to sleep until after 3 am but that Jon crashed ASAP. LOL. I made it through the plane ride although I had a few rough moments, especially when she clung to me and said she didn't want to go live with Grandma, she wanted to stay with me. We got to the airport and met grandma and other family members. Katie clung to me she refused to let me put her down for any length of time she absolutely would not go to her grandma or anyone else, she just clung to me and said over and over she didn't want to live there she wanted to stay with us. I lost it, I got almost to their car and I lost it I cried all the way to the hotel and then some. What really upset us was we had originally planned to go see them Sat but we were unable to do that, but we talked to their grandma and she said they were doing fine, hadn't had any problems so far anyway. So we had another break down, then went got breakfast and walked all over San Diego, which I will write about in a different post.

Cali

2010-04-04T14:22:00.000-07:00

Ok we're here all I can say is this SUCKS, last night was way rough. I think whats hardest was that this was a situation that was out of our control. We had no say or choice in what happened. So like I said this SUCKS!! We know its right but it still really stinks.

My new project

2010-03-25T13:43:00.000-07:00

So I have always said this year I am going to have a garden and every year I forget about it. Well this year I am going to do it. My dad has a HUGE space and said I can use as much as I want and he will till it up for me, major bonus, personally I think its because he just bought a new tiller and wants to play with his new toy. LOL. So I have decided that this is the year I am going to have a garden, not a huge one mind you but one none the less. So now I am trying to decide how I want to do it. So any of you seasoned gardeners have any advice I am more than open to it. And I am going to post updates so you can all share in the joy of watching it take shape and grow, as soon as I find my camera charger that is. Also to make sure I actually follow through with doing one. LOL

Whats the Big Deal

2010-03-23T14:46:00.000-07:00

I am totally opening myself up to all kinds of feedback, don't judge me too harshly.

We rented New Moon last night, no we didn't go see it in the theater, and no we weren't standing in line at midnight so we could get it. So I watched it this morning while I was face booking and folding laundry ect, I am sorry but I just don't get what the big stinking deal is about this whole twilght series, I don't get what people are so obsessed with. As far as movies go, it doesn't really stand out to me as the best ever nor is it the worst I have ever seen. Its ok as movies go, I just don't get what everyone is so obsessed with. I have had loads of people tell me I need to read the books, when I have said its really not what I am really into that kind of reading, they have insisted I just have to start and I wont be able to put it down. My sister in law actually let me borrow her copy of the first one about a year ago and I have to admit I haven't made it past chapter 4 maybe 5. So for me I just don't get what the big deal is with these movies and/or books. That does not mean I wont watch them all, I probably will just to watch them, but own them probably not. Before you all rush to tell me I just need to give them a chance, you have to remember I am an action/ disaster and comedy movie girl. I love the die hards, the lethal weapons, yes I know they are rated R. I don't do chick flick very often. As far as how life is going right now that's another post for when I have more time, but it is coming I promise I know that many of my faithful readers are sitting on the edge of their seats in anticipation on the latest in the Merkley saga

What will they think of next....

2010-03-09T12:01:00.000-08:00

Ok so I was sitting at work doing a home visit. They always have Nick Jr on for the kids. In the 4 hours that I was there I probably saw the commercial for Barbie potty training pups 30 times (seriously I started counting after awhile). I don't know about the rest of you but I found it extremely disturbing that they now have pets that pee and poop. Seriously they left their leg and pee. I wrote on my wall on face book about it, and surprisingly I actually have quite a few comments mostly as disgusted as I am. I found the commercial and thought that you all would benefit from watching it I know I have. LOL I tried to load the video on here but it wont work so here's the link for your viewing pleasure http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ow2X5tLYb3g#watch-main-area

Sooo..

2010-03-02T20:08:00.001-08:00

For those who have been on the edge of their seats in anticipation with what has been going on in our oh so exciting world, heres what new with us. We are all just getting over being sick, Katie got it the worst, luckily Cale and Jon just got a mild dose of it so it wasn't to horrible for them, Katie missed 2 days of school. But is back to her normal "active" self now.
Katie turned 4 the 16th. For the last 5 months she has been reminding us on an almost daily basis that she wanted a purple cake with pink ice cream. Well she got it and as a added bonus she even got Cinderella and the fairy Godmother. To say she loves "her" princesses is putting it mildly. So she was super excited about her cake to say the least. She loves to tell everyone about her purple cake.

Jon is still all boy, He is loving the fact that its been nice outside and they can go play finally. They made mud outside and then decorated their faces. It was hilarious. Wish I could have found my camera, oh well always tomorrow.

For those who are wanting to know how things are going with Grandma, they are going GREAT, she came up for a visit and had the kids for 3 straight days, and then 2 more days during the day while we were at work. I think she will do GREAT with them. They talk to her every night and are excited to talk to her. They still don't know that they will be going to live with her soon. We haven't told them yet because we don't have a definite day yet they will be moving. And we are expecting some major behaviors when they do find out. Those who do know please don't mention anything in front of or in earshot of the kids.
So long story short we don't know when exactly the kids will be moving only that they will be very soon, hopefully before the 1st of April. We'll let you know when we do, its kinda one of those don't call us we'll call you things. Its very difficult for us to try and talk about period, let alone when we have little ears around who do listen and hear every word we say.
Also we have been asked by several people if we are going to continue doing foster care. The answer is we don't know. We do know we are taking a SERIOUS break from it for awhile and if we do get back into it we will start with respite and then go from there.This whole experience has torn us apart emotionally and physically, when we got the kids we were told we would be able to adopt them, that the term trial for their dad was only a technicality, we know that nothing with the department is a guarantee but we were lead to believe it was a done deal , well that's not quite how it worked out. So we don't know if we will continue doing this. We have decided to give the kid thing a break for at least 6 months and then we will revisit it and decide what we want to do if anything. In the mean time we are going to work and have some fun and just enjoy life, starting with sleeping on Saturdays.
So who knows what the future holds for us but we do know it will be an adventure it always is.

Our Awesome friend....

2010-02-26T21:21:00.000-08:00

HAPPY 30th BIRTHDAY Alisa We love ya

The Dr's in...

2010-02-19T21:03:00.000-08:00

Great Information -- to live longer and enjoy life more

I love this Doctor!

Q: Doctor, I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life. Is this true?
A: Your heart only good for so many beats, and that it...don't waste on exercise. Everything wear out eventually. Speeding up heart not make you live longer; it like saying you extend life of car by driving faster. Want to live longer? Take nap.
Q: Should I cut down on meat and eat more fruits and vegetables?
A: You must grasp logistical efficiency. What does cow eat? Hay and corn. And what are these? Vegetables. So steak is nothing more than efficient mechanism of delivering vegetables to your system. Need grain? Eat chicken.. Beef also good source of field grass (green leafy vegetable). And pork chop can give you 100% of recommended daily allowance of vegetable product.
Q: Should I reduce my alcohol intake?
A: No, not at all. Wine made from fruit. Brandy is distilled wine, that mean they take water out of fruity bit so you get even more of goodness that way. Beer also made of grain. Bottom up!
Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio?
A: Well, if you have body and you have fat, your ratio one to one. If you have two bodies, your ratio two to one, etc.
Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?
A: Can't think of single one, sorry.. My philosophy is: No pain...good!
Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you?
A: YOU NOT LISTENING! Food are fried these day in vegetable oil. In fact, they permeated by it. How could getting more vegetable be bad for you?!?
Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle?
A: Definitely not! When you exercise muscle, it get bigger. You should only be doing sit-up if you want bigger stomach.
Q: Is chocolate bad for me?
A: Are you crazy?!? HEL-LO-O!! Cocoa bean! Another vegetable! It best feel-good food around!
Q: Is swimming good for your figure?
A: If swimming good for your figure, explain whale to me...
Q: Is getting in shape important for my lifestyle?
A: Hey! 'Round' a shape!
Well, I hope this has cleared up any misconceptions you may have had about food and diets.
And remember:
Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways - Chardonnay in one hand - chocolate in the other - body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO-HOO, what a ride!!" AND..... For those of you who watch what you eat, here's the final word on nutrition and health. It's a relief to know the truth after all those conflicting nutritional studies. 1. The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than us. 2. The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than us. 3. The Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than us. 4. The Italians drink a lot of red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than us. 5. The Germans drink a lot of beer and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks than us. CONCLUSION: Eat and drink what you like. Speaking English is apparently what kills you.

how its going

2010-02-08T08:49:00.001-08:00

So had a few extra minutes before I have to go to work and thought I would just give a really quick update. Kids met their grandma Friday and have really taken to her. They took to her so well that even though we had planned on having them stay with her over night Saturday they ended up going Friday night after dinner. We met them in the afternoon to go bowling, and that was fun. She has had them since then, haven't heard anything but figure it is going well. Hopefully things go quickly between Wa and California and we can get the kids moved and have this over and done with. WE have learned alot durring this whole thing and are going to take a break from the whole kid thing. Gonna go have some fun, with the job I have right now we can go do a few things, Speaking of which gotta get to work. More later Pics comming soon of my horrible hair cut

OH MY GOSH!!!!

2010-02-07T00:05:00.000-08:00

All I can say is I was BUTCHERED!!! Pictures to follow. I just dyed it so I am hoping it will look better.

Wilie Coyote

2010-01-28T13:02:00.000-08:00

Meet the wiliest of all coyotes: Hit by a car at 75mph, embedded in the fender,road for 600 miles - and SURVIVED! When a brother and sister struck a coyote at 75mph they assumed they had killed the animal and drove on. They didn't realize this was the toughest creature ever to survive a hit-and-run. Eight hours, two fuel stops, and 600 miles later they found the wild animal embedded in their front fender - and very much alive. Daniel and Tevyn East were driving at night along Interstate 80 near the Nevada-Utah border when they noticed a pack of coyotes near the roadside on October 12. When one of the animals ran in front of the car, the impact sounded fatal so the siblings thought there no point in stopping. 'Right off the bat, we knew it was bad,' Daniel explained. 'We thought the story was over.' After the incident around 1am, they continued their 600 mile drive to North San Juan - even stopping for fuel at least twice. But it was only when they finally reached their destination at 9am did they take time to examine what damage they may have sustained. At first it looked as though it was going to be quite gruesome. '[Daniel] saw fur and the body inside the grill,' Tevyn East said. 'I was trying to keep some distance. Our assumption was it was part of the coyote - it didn't register it was the whole animal.' Daniel East got a broom to try and pry the remains out of the bumper and got the shock of his life. 'It flinched,' Tevyn East said. 'It was a huge surprise - he got a little freaked out.' 'We knew it was bad': Tevyn East, who was in the car when it hit the coyote, bends down to take a look at the fur poking through the fender Fur Pete's sake: What Mr. East spotted as he bent down to inspect the damage to his car - the body of the coyote poking out through the radiator Wily coyote: The animal's head can be seen as rescuers took apart the front fender to save it after it was struck by the car at 75mph Miracle escape: As the animal struggled, wildlife protection officials put a loop around its neck to prevent it from further injuring itself The front of the car is completely taken apart as the coyote begins to wriggle free And voila! Tricky the toughest coyote ever rests in a cage after its ordeal - which it survived with just some scrapes to its paw

Ok finally whats been going on...

2010-01-20T14:28:00.000-08:00

I have to warn you this is a very sad and unexpected news. We found out 2 days before Christmas that the judge unofficially ruled that the kids are to go live with their grandma out of state, made for a "wonderful" Christmas. We didn't say anything to anyone except immediate family, because there was the chance that he would change his mind. This came as a TOTAL shock to EVERYONE. No one even knew grandma was still petitioning for custody. Anyway we got the official phone call today the judge stuck with his ruling and they will be leaving. I am not going to get into the details on here. its personal and confidential and I just emotionally can't right now. Our hearts are breaking right now. For as much as they irriate us and make me so angry I want to scream these are my babies, they made us a mommy and daddy. Thats whats new with us. We are really ok with this decision and have come to terms with it, but man it feels like someone is stabbing my heart as hard as they can right now. if you see us at walmart or someplace PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do not come up to us and want to talk about this. First of all that is definitely not the time or the place and secondly I can't emotionally handle it right now. We love you all and have really appreciated all of you love, support and prayers.

Life

2010-01-19T21:38:00.000-08:00

Wishing life was different, but everything happens for a reason and has a purpose...right???

Sorry for the cryptic posts, lots of stuff going on nothing we expected. Can't talk about it right now but will soon.

Cale

2010-01-07T14:31:00.000-08:00

I started this post yesterday but deleted it three time cause nothing seemed right. I wanted to let everyone know what a truly amazingly wonderful man I have the privilege to be married with. Just being in the same room with him makes everything seem better. This man makes me want to be better. I could go on and on about how he makes me laugh, how he is always willing to help a complete stranger, How I love to listen to him sing, Despite what he will tell you he sings GREAT!! I could go on and on, but anyone who know him knows he hates this kind of stuff. So any way I will just say

Cale I LOVE YOU!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY BABE!!! Thank you for choosing me!!

What I learned this week

2009-12-23T08:25:00.001-08:00

This week I have learned that things don't always go as you expect them too. And that others decisions/actions have a HUGE impact on the lives of many.

Secret Santa

2009-12-23T08:17:00.000-08:00

So the other day I came home from work to a package on my door. YEA!! I love to get mail especially when its not bills. I of course opened it right away. and saw that my secret santa had sent me this beautiful vase. Thanks SANTA!!

Sadie

2009-12-18T22:39:00.000-08:00

Ok so my parents are out of town for today and wont be back till tomorrow and they asked me to let the dog in and out to go potty. So I go over there this afternoon after work ( they didn't leave till late this morning, for those of you thinking I left her in the house all day) So I let her out and I start thinking of all the stuff I need to do and how much easier it would be if I just had her stay at our house. Ok honestly I really felt sorry for her having to be there all alone by herself and decided to bring her home. Come on she's old and she is technically my dog and she never barks. Plus I thought the kids would like to play with her. And boy did they. Especially Katie. Heres a few moments from her fun filled evening Checking to make sure Sadie is sleeping and then telling the rest of us that we need to be quiet because Sadie is sleeping and she doesn't want us to wake her up. Covering Sadie with her babies blanket, That I had just washed, thank you very much. Oh well... Giving Sadie the play by play of the movie they were watching. By then end of the night, Sadie just looked at me as if to say " What did I ever do to you, I had a good thing going, the whole house to myself, the Tv, my warm bed and then you make me come here" On a side note I have had a few people asking about pics of the kids and why there are none on here. Its because they are state dependent kids and you are not allowed to post their pics on the internet for any reason. I have the ones I just posted on here with Katie in them because they don't show her face. Once they are adopted there will be a ton of them. promise

Come join Fun Christmas Gift exchange

2009-11-22T09:10:00.000-08:00

A friend of ours started this online Christmas gift exchange at Tranquilty and Turmoil. You spend $15-20 or make something crafty and send it to the person that you get matched with. We've never done anything like this but it sounds like alot of fun!!! Dear Santa, I am "MOMMY!!!" to 2, and "Honey" to one. In my spare time, I love to take pictures of all kinds of things, rarely am I with out my camera :) I recently learned how to make jewelry and love it. We love watching movies and playing games with friends. We are a family of travelers and love to go different places. Rarely are we home on the weekend. Some people say I am the queen of cheap, but hubby says I am just VERY thrifty LOL. I love a good deal and refuse to pay more for something than is absolutely necessary . A few questions to answer are: How do you like to spend your free time? taking pictures, spending time with hubby and kiddos, watching movies, making crafty stuff, if I am in the mood lol, What is your favorite color? Dark blue and Dark purple Do you collect anything? Hubby would say purses and hair things I always "need" a new one. I love candles and smelly things.

The Johnson's

2009-11-19T13:21:00.000-08:00

Ok I finally finished the pictures of Bob and Alisa. Here's a few of my favorites.

From mommy to.....

2009-11-18T11:30:00.000-08:00

Mother's eat peanut butter sandwiches because they don't have time to fix fancy stuff. Mothers don't look for their kitchen utensils because they know that they are probably in the sandbox. A shovel is a shovel right???? Mothers often have sticky floors, dirty ovens and happy kids. Mothers know that dried play dough doesn't come out of carpets. And it's OK Mothers really don't want to know what the vacuum just sucked up. It's gotta be a LEGO... Mothers sometimes ask "Why me?" and get their answer when a little voice says, "Because I love YOU best of all " That's why... Mothers know that a child's growth is not measured by height or years or grade in school... It is marked by the progression of Mommy to Mom to Mother... The Images of Mother 4 YEARS OF AGE - My Mommy can do anything! 8 YEARS OF AGE - My Mom knows a lot! A whole lot! 12 YEARS OF AGE - My Mother doesn't really know everything. 14 YEARS OF AGE - Aw... Mom give me a break...please!!!! 16 YEARS OF AGE - Mother? She's hopelessly old-fashioned. 18 YEARS OF AGE - That crazy woman? She's so out of date! 25 YEARS OF AGE - Well, she might know a little bit about some stuff... 35 YEARS OF AGE - Before we decide, let's get Mom's opinion. 45 YEAR S OF AGE - Wonder what Mom would think about this... 65 YEARS OF AGE - I would give about anything to talk it over with my Mother... The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair. The beauty of a woman is in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart. The heart is where loves resides and grows. The beauty of a woman is not in her facial features. It is reflected in her soul. It is the caring that she gives and the passion that she shows. A woman grows more beautiful as the years give her wisdom. Kind and tenderness come with age. From Mommy to Mom to Mother...Ain't it great....

update

2009-11-05T20:02:00.000-08:00

We just found out there wasn't enough judges to hear all the cases yesterday so it got continued until Dec 8, but they said that is a guaranteed date, and we will have a verdict by the 9th. So crap happens what ya gonna do ya know, We already know this is all just a technicality. There is a slim chance of them moving, but it a very slim chance. In the mean time we just wait. At least it didn't get pushed off for another 6 months that happens a lot here Anyway that's the latest and the greatest. Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers

C-Day

2009-11-05T11:46:00.001-08:00

Ok so I was going to post this yesterday but got busy, I know I have no excuse, it not like I have anything to do right,just work, clean house, take care of kids and hubby, oh and I just found out I am supposed to actually go to the store and buy food. No wonder theres never anything to eat. LOL. Anyway the trial has officially started yesterday to terminate parental rights for bio parent for our kids. So we are hoping to find out today or tomorrow what the judge decides. So in the mean time I am very grateful for my job to keep me busy adn from sitting by the phone waiting. We kind of already know what the outcome will be but you never really know. So for now we are all just waiting to hear.

Cale's Big Adventure Oct. 17, 2009

2009-10-20T21:14:00.000-07:00

I don't usually do this sort of thing, but I've come to realize that if I don't do something, there is no way that I'm ever going to maintain a journal. Oct 17, 2009 was an incredible day for me. My wife and I had the opportunity to see Bob and Alisa Johnson get sealed for time and all eternity in the Columbia River temple. Sharon and I went over the night before and stayed in the Days Inn in Richland, WA. Bob and Alisa stayed in the same motel. At 10 pm we all went out to eat at Applebee's and had a wonderful time talking about whatever topic that came up. We were there til midnight and then moved on to a WinCo foods to get a couple of things. I recently developed a fetish and fascination with Hot Wheels cars and picked up a few while we were there. Honestly, it was heart warming seeing how the Johnson's expressed how nervous they were about entering the temple for the first time. It was difficult sleeping that night due to the anticipation of what the next day would hold for our friends. The next morning came pretty quick and at 6:30 am we were on the road to the temple. Still dark as twilight approached, an amazing feeling of warm swept over as the softly illuminate spire of the temple came into view and enlarged with every passing revolution of the car tires. I have served in the temple numerous times before, but that day there was a new excitement in the air. It was like I was experiencing the joys and anticipation of the temple experience for the first time. We watched Bob and Alisa as they timidly, yet gleefully, approached the ornate doors that were the entrance to the house of the Lord. As we presented our recommends, met with the temple patrons, entered the dressing room, changed into our white clothing, traveled through the halls of that sacred sanctuary of the saints, and met with the Temple President.......something inside whispered that this would be a day to remember. The words of the temple president are all a blur, but the feeling of inexplicable solace pierced my heart and witness to the divine reality of what this would mean for the Johnson's. It's easy to appear as an embellishment, but for some reason the strength of the Spirit bore testimony with such convincing power as to remove any doubt that the temple is what we profess it to be. So, I did my best to escort Bob through the session and was filed with awe and wonder as I saw my friends and family enjoying the brilliance of our final destination at the session's completion. I stood with Bob, Les Michie, Jerry Harrid and our wives as we discussed temple symbolisms and the insights that we gained from the day's session. We were there conversing, meditating, and praying for almost 45 minutes in the Celestial room. That was the longest and most significant amount of time that I have ever spent there. The experience was something that simply defies description. Once another wedding party cleared out, we were all off to the sealing room. Bob honored me by asking if I would be a witness for the sealing. It really meant allot to me as I firmly grabbed hold of the pen that I used to sign my name to the document that was certifying that actualization of this saving ordinance. As the sealer spoke of the reality of the atonement of Jesus Christ and the importance of becoming a joint ere of everything the Father has with Christ through the ordinances of the temple, tears welled up and streamed down my face as a confirmation of the truth of his witness. As he explained that the Father will to give us everything he has if we but give everything we have (albeit nothing in comparison), the stream of tears became a little wider as my capacity to feel joy in that moment increased. And as he confessed that the Savior holds us in a sure place within the outreached grasp of the Father, I looked over at my wife and knew, just knew, that it was all real....all of it. I am thankful for what Bob and Alisa gave me that day, a closeness to the Spirit of the Lord that has been absent for quite some time. As we went about our day, eating at Red Robin, shopping at Best Buy and Target, and eventually finding our way home.......not before Sharon and I spent an hour in a Big Lot when half the city blacked out....(funny story I'll have to document later)..........the world just seemed a little different. Anyhow.....this was for me to write, so if you made it this far through the story, then thanks for reading and I hope you got something out of it........ More Later, Cale Merkley

New news

2009-10-20T19:39:00.000-07:00

Lets see whats new. Cale had a job interview a few weeks ago in Spokane, but didn't get offered the job, bummer. But he has another interview in Spokane for a different position on Thursday, this is one of the jobs he really wants, its still with the state just a different area. So we are crossing our fingers and praying with all our might that he gets it. Because honestly he needs a new job, even if we can't get back to Spokane, we just need to get out of Moses Lake for a number of different reasons that I am not going to get into on here. So hopefully we will have job news sooner rather than later. Jon had his last soccer practice tonight. He only had to run 4 times extra for not listening this time. He has REALLY done great in soccer. He always scores at least one goal every game. I am really good he was able to play this year and be on an actual team I think it was really good for him and he has grown alot. He loves that this is his thing and he doesn't have to do it with his sister. He is loving preschool, he's in the same class as last year which I think was a good and bad thing for him but oh well. Katie, who yes is still going by Katie, I think this change will be permanent is loving school. She hasn't beat anyone up yet. Thankfully, lol. Her teachers all say she is doing great. She did tot soccer for awhile but ended up having to quit. She keeps asking when she is getting a baby sister so she can share her room, translation she wants someone to play with and talk to at night when she is supposed to be sleeping. :) We have had some other major changes one of which is that Maybe you should sit down for this I went back to work. I did it. I know some of you are thinking I said I would never do it. I am only working part time and its for some friends of ours who started a business here. I really like it. It gets me out of the house for a few hours and I have someone to talk to other than myself or the kids. My schedule is flexible enough right now that I can still get the kids to appointments and do stuff at the school. I was a little hesitant about having the kids in daycare, but honestly they love it. They have other kids to play with and the best part, for Jon anyway, is that the kids are separated by age so they aren't together all the time and get the chance to make other friends. They are learning so much, its not one of those daycare's where they just sit and play or watch tv, they do more preschool type things and have more of a schedule. Its close to Cales work and mine so its convenient to pick them up. Sorry for no pics, we have some but we aren't supposed to post pics of the kids on line, though it seems like everyone else does so I might just say screw it and post some.

Where did Sept go....

2009-09-25T13:21:00.001-07:00

So I looked at the calender the other day only to discover that its the end of September. What happened to September? I can't believe how fast the months are flying by. Though I love the fall, I love everything about it, the changing leaves, ( which is one thing I miss most about Spokane all the leaves changing) the cooler days its just a fun season. Soccer is in full swing for us, Jon had his first soccer game, their team won and he even scored a goal YEA Jon!!! Katie is Katie, Whats that little rhyme they make up about sugar and spice, well she definitly has lots of both. School is going pretty good, no ones been in trouble yet, knock on wood. They seem to be adjusting to it pretty well. Cale has applied for several jobs in Spokane, so we are hoping and praying he gets one I want to move back in the worst way. Anyway thats bout all that we have going on for now. I am looking for a job, I am waiting to hear about one thats pretty for sure. So we'll see what happens.

Whats new...

2009-08-26T22:16:00.000-07:00

Well honestly not a whole lot, Cale goes to work every day and I wrestle kids. I now "fully" understand why mothers look forward to school starting. Which is 2 weeks after everyone else for preschool. This will be "Katie's" ( Kaylin decided her name is now Katie, don't know where it came from but she has been sticking to it for like the last 2 weeks, so we'll see) first year. She's excited but very nervous I think she will have a rough few days but then she'll be fine. Jon says he doesn't want to go to school, but we know he loves it. He survived soccer camp and absolutely loved it, and he is really good, honestly not just saying that cause he's my kid. So we will be signing him for soccer this week and Katie too. I am toying with getting a job while they're in school. Haven't decided for sure yet. WOuld be nice to have the extra $$$ to pay off student loans but I am REALLY looking forward to having a chance to get some stuff done while their in school. So who knows we'll see what happens.

Its.....

2009-08-13T20:57:00.000-07:00

OFF. Finally I got my cast off. I was so afraid the Dr was going to make me recast it but nope. I just have to use my brace for a month. I'll take it. Life is so much nicer now that I can take a shower when I want to and use both hands. My hair finally feel clean. We are going to Silverwood next weekend to celebrate I might even ride a rollercoaster this time. lol. Anyway thats our good news for the week. Kids are good we finally got permission to cut the kids hair. I don't think Kaylin has ever had her hair cut before, she has finally forgiven me. her baby hair is gone now and its in a cute little bob just above her shoulders a bit shorter than I wanted but its cute and we are planning to grow it long anyway. And I cut Jons he wanted it shaved like daddies, we didn't go quite that short. lol. thats it for now will fill you in on our exciting adventures at soccer camp tommarow.

Alaska

2009-07-30T14:23:00.000-07:00

Alright this is WAY late in being posted, I started it 2 months ago and just realized I never posted it or even really finished it. So here it is better late than never, I guess. Ok so just before we got the kids Cale applied for a job in Juneau Alaska and they called him back the same day, liked what they heard. Asked for his references and then about a week after we got the kids they called and offered him the job talk about bad timing. So my mom came and stayed with the kids for a few days while we flew to Juneau to check it out. Met them they were AWESOME, Cale really wants to work there. but there were 2 hang ups 1 they didn't offer him enough $$$ if we moved up there I would have to work and he might need an additional part time job, which is no big deal, we would have made that work. But the biggest thing was he would have to be gone up there by himself for probablly close to a year at least because we can't move the kids out of state until they are adopted and since there are a few complications right now, that might not happen till next spring or summer. But we LOVED it up there and have decided that we would really like to move there, the cost of living isn't that much more than here, except housing is OUTRAGEOUS. But other than that its not too bad. So after much debate he ended up turning the job down though we are looking for work over there, we want to end up in either Spokane or Juneau so we'll have to see what happens. Turning it down was probablly one of the hardest things we have had to do so far. We totally found heaven on earth, the people were awesome, loved the weather ( yes we know its different in the winter) The scenery was to die for. I can't even begin to explain how clean it was, the air was amazing, Everything was very spread out but they had a Walmart, Fred Meyer, Costco, home depot, Safeway, along with other smaller stores. We absolutely loved it. Here's just some random pics we took enjoy. Sorry they aren't in any particular order.

Welcome to downtown Juneau

These were growing all over the place I thought they were absolutely beautiful.

We have never seen anyplace so clean before and not just litter and what not but the air is clean, water tastes great, the lakes are clear like you can see the bottom, it was just an amazing place. We totally loved it there.

Update #2

2009-07-30T13:50:00.000-07:00

Ok so here's part 2 of our summer so far. Jon and Kaylin came to live with us on the 4th of July. It was nice because we were able to transition them here from their previous home and we have had them for respite and seen them quite a bit. Though I have to say being fulltime parents is SO much different than just doing respite or babysitting.

Jon is 4 and Kaylin is 3 and they are definitly a handful but very worth it. They were in their previous home for quite awhile and they did an awesome job with them and we are very thankful they were their previous home.

We are planning to adopt them, there are some hang ups right now so we wont know anything until the first part of November....hopefully.

Jon is very much a boy he loves to ride his bike and play in the dirt. Though he will occasionally play house with his sister. :) He can be a little on the shy side until he gets to know someone. He loves to watch movies and he definilty has his favorites which he watches over and over again.

Kaylin is all girl she loves make up and she usually has her baby in one hand and a purse and her phone in the other. She NEVER goes anywhere without her baby. She is very independent and wants to do everything herself . She also has a stubborn streak in her a mile long and has been known to throw quite a fit ( just ask my mom lol) though when she's done she's done and is her happy self again.She loves to do and have whatever her brother has or is doing which drives him nuts most of the time.

Over all their really good kids and we are so lucky to have them. I think once things get settled with them we'll do one more in a year or so a baby this time either our own biologically or adopted. and then we'll be done.

update part one

2009-07-23T14:59:00.000-07:00

ok so I promised to update everyone, well for those who don't know Beau went back to the west side, he was not adjusting well and was just really unhappy here. So the end of June he left, it was kinda sad but I think he was excited to go. At the same time our neice and nephew were here for a month and we were transitioning 2 more kidos to live here. So to say that June and Most of July was chaotic and stressfull is an understatment, combine that with a cast and a stressed out overworked husband made for alot of fun for us. Thankfully thing have now calmed down as much as they ever will with a 3 and 4 year old. Anyway I am still in a cast which is why I have broken this up into parts. more details to come on our exciting summer so far

Not Me

2009-07-06T13:56:00.000-07:00

A friend of ours started doing a "Not me Monday" I thought that would be a fun blog probablly will be a bit sporatic but fun none the less. So last Wednesday I did not turn on the wrong street to go home and not realize it or like 5 minutes when the kids asked where we were going, I didn't do that not me. I did not almost go into the store with my shirt on backwards. Not me nope I didn't do that. ** promise to get everyone up to speed on what we have been doing

Whats up

2009-06-26T14:37:00.000-07:00

We have been MEGA busy lately LOTS AND LOTS GOING on right now. Once things calm down a little we will make sure to update you all and fill you in on whats been going on in the Exciting adventures of the Merkley's

Has it really been 10 Years already....

2009-06-18T14:16:00.000-07:00

What started out as one "DAM" date. The short story is we got set up on a blind date, yes thank you Holly need to give credit where credit is due lol, decided we should just be friends and well 10 years later you can see how that worked out for us...heeheehee...

I can't believe its been 10 years already and we're still going strong...we even still like each other...lol....

LOVE YOU BABE!!!

I survived !!!

2009-06-17T16:29:00.000-07:00

ok I have totally slacked off with blogging, but hey I had surgery, thats as good excuse as any right. Actually I have been doing pretty good so far. everyone told me how bad it was going to be afterwards pain wise so I tried to stay on top of my pain meds, big mistake I was so sick, apparently not only do I not do vicadin but I don't do oxy either. Once I quit taking that I have been fine. The one thing I was absolutely terrifed about (other than waking up in the middle of everything) was getting my IV, those who know me well know I HATE needles in fact the nurses at my Dr's always try and use the little baby needles when they take blood. I had never had an IV before so this was like totally traumatic for me. Cale was so sweet he turned a movie on for me on the laptop and held my hand. I am proud to say I made it and didn't even shed one tear. Afterwards in recovery I was totally annoyed because all these people who came in after I did left like way earlier than me. I wanted to leave but I was so sick from everything I couldn't hardly move with out throwing up, so lucky me didn't get to leave until like 6 pm. I actually made it all the way home and to our front door before I got sick again. I am actually doing amazing well no pain really unless I do something dumb. had a dr appointment last tuesday to get my cast, I had a heavy massive plaster one before that, he said that everything looked good enough that he put me in a smaller cast, if I promised to behave and I go back the end of July and they'll xray it and if it looks good then I will be cast free YEA!!! sure beats 2-3 months of a cast up past my elbow and then 2-3 months with a smaller one with a brace for 6-9 months after that. So whenever I get frustrated with how limited I am, I remind myself it could be soo much worse. I feel very blessed that things have gone so well. I survived my first IV, surgery, and stitches all at 30 years old. Not bad. Of course this whole experience wouldn't be complete w/o pix so ciurtesy of my loving husband who wanted to make sure we documented everything.

I am just adding them all together, this whole typing one handed thing is time consuming.

Some might think they're gross but all I can say is you looked.

the smile is due to the first round of knock out meds, I was totally trippin.Cale loves the camera the dr took these out before they put the cast on it hurt so bad I seriously wanted to cry

Thursday

2009-06-02T21:32:00.000-07:00

Well I am finally biting the bullet. Cale and I met with the surgeon acouple weeks ago to find out about fixing my wrist. It is finally going to happen, though I didn't think it would be quite so soon. When the nurse asked when we would like to schedule it I figured we couldn't get in until August or something ( I had to make my appointment just to see him 3 months ago) I was totally shocked to hear her say how about the first week in June. So this Thursday I am finally going to get it done. Its actually better this way because Cale is looking for a different job and we needed to have this done while we have our awesome insurance. We have sent out a few resumes in different places all over the place so if anyone hears of any job openings please let us know. For those who don't know back in 2005 I fell and hurt my wrist went to our clinic they took xrays said it was fine just don't use it for a few days. Ha I have never been able to use it fully with out pain since. Why didn't I go back adn have them look again you might ask because I graduated and there for lost any medical from the school and when you are poor college students with no $$$ or insurance you don't go unless its life or death. So once Cale got this job here I went to the DR. Sure enough I had actually broken it and when it healed it cut off a blood vessel to my scaphoid bone, which has slowly been killing the bone. So Thursday I get to go to Wenatchee where they are going to graft bone from my wrist and shove it into the the dead one and hold it there with wire and pins and screws. So this summer I will be in a full arm cast up to my armpit about for 2-3 months and then one to my elbow for 2-3 months then I get to wear a very lovely brace for another 9 months The Dr said I will never have full use of it again but this is for pain mostly. So there is probablly going to be a lawsuit involved with my original clinic we'll see. Who knows we'll just have to see what happens. This is the first time I will have surgery like this. To be completely honest I am terrified I keep having dreams that I wake up in the middle of it. I absolutely hate needles, when I have blood drawn the nurse has always been kind enough to use the baby needle so its not quite so bad but the thought of and IV and all that junk scares the bejeebers out of me. So I am trying not to freak myself out anymore than I already am. Beau is going to respite for a couple days thanks goodenss( we have to leave for WEnatchee at 5:30 am toomarow) wish we could have gotten it for at least the weekend but thats all they would give us. Cale and I are going to go out tonight and have some fun, as much as one can in Moses Lake, enjoy my last night of complete mibilty and indendance. Right now I am trying to get stuff done around here so to minimize what Cale has to do it didn't help that I got the flu adn strep throat at once. So now I am trying to play catch up and get stuff done. So if I don'tupdate this for awhile its because I am at home writhing in pain lol hopefully I will get some awesome pain killers :) I am sure Cale will get on here and post some very lovely pictures I will make sure he takes beofrer and after pics that way you all can see what I look like higher than a kite.lol

Still here

2009-05-25T09:29:00.000-07:00

I know I promised pics of my new hair, honestly I think I need it done again, thought I liked what she did but its too similar to what I had before, so Anyway.... I have also been really sick this last week adn its doesn't look like its going to let go anytime soon, I actually went to the Dr. He said I have strep suprise suprise. that combined with the flu has not been fun at all. Also I am finally scheduled for surgery on the 4th of June, if I can get un sick before then. I will fill in the details when I don't feel like I am going to die.

Finally!!!

2009-05-14T14:51:00.001-07:00

I am going to do it, I have been thinking about it for a couple days, but seeing Alisa's has convinced me to just do it.... Curious yet....lol I have been fighting with my hair for the last several months but being the "thrifty" person I am I have refused to pay the 15-20 bucks just to get it trimmed, its now down to my shoulder blades and its actually long enough that I keep catching it under my arms pinning myself or having Cale get caught in it and pin me down. So I decided last night its time for a change I am going to try something different but kind of similar. The deciding factor is that I found a coupon for $10 at a salon I went to before that I liked the last time it was like $25 so wish me luck, who knows maybe I'll go blonde too totally reinvent my self.... Before and after pics to come later. Gotta go run and pick Mr. Beau up from school. Oh yeah Cale has no clue that I am actually going to go through with this so we'll see what he thinks... heeheehee

What a man....

2009-05-13T20:38:00.000-07:00

I have to tell you all what an awesome husband I have we went back to Spokane this weekend for our friends Joe and Brendas baby blessing. I wish we lived closer so I could come "borrow" Gideon, he was soo much fun. Anyway we stopped at Ross one of my fav stores. And I shopped and tried on tons of different outfits Cale stayed with me the whole time and even gave me honest opinions and advise. I got really lucky in teh fact that unlike most husbands I hear about, if he went shopping for me I wouldn't have to worry he has got excellent taste. He didn't even look at price tags he just said that looks awesome your getting it, even when I protested and said no it costs too much, which should tell you all how cheap...I mean thrifty I am, He said it didn't matter adn tossed it in the cart. Now how many guys out there would actually stand around while their wife or gfriend tried on tones of different outfits, never complaining once and actually seeming to enjoy himself. Cale I love you so much, Thank you for being so patient with me. I really am the luckiest woman in the world!!

Still alive

2009-05-13T13:51:00.000-07:00

I was informed that I need to update this so here goes... Lets see what have we been doing....... Well a couple weeks ago we went to Couer d Alene to see Chris Clarmont, the guy who created Wolverine and has writen tons of comic books so of course we had to go and have hime sign the comics Cale had that he wrote really nice guy, his wife stood and talked with Cale for probablly 15 -20 minutes. Beau did pretty ok for the most part. He started school 2 weeks ago, because he is so drasticly behind they placed him in Kindergaten and he says he hates school, he doesn't like that he has to go everyday all day, oh well he'll live. Yesterday was kinda funny/ irrating. Heres some background first, last Saturday a family in our wards huse burned down ( ALWAYS make sure lighters and matches are out of little fingers reach) So I offered to watch the kids for them this week. I have watched them before they are both in my primary class so it really is no big deal. So the last few days they have been here. Yesterday Cale woke up with the start of a nasty migraine so he went to court and was going to come home. All of this Beau knew. Well school starts at 8:45am I got a phone call at 8:50 from his school saying that he was in the office complaining because his stomache hurt. He had said nothing about it when I had dropped him off earlier. I told the secretary that I thought we should wait a bit and see if he felt better, she agreed. At this point I really don't think he's really sick, he knows that Cales comming home and he thinks he should be able to stay home with him. I wait till The kids get there abot 20 minutes later and called her back, she said he was still there. I asked to talk to him he got on the phone and this chipper little voice says Hi, I asked him what was wrong, he said my stomach hurts, I told him I would come and get him but if he couldn't go to school he couldn't go to Math and Science night that night, He paused adn thought about it for a sec and then said ok I want to come home. So I loaded 2 rowdy kids in the car adn went and got him. I walked in the office and here he comes skipping in the door from getting his backpack happy as can be. Now I really know he's not sick. So anyway he was chatting up a storm with the kids telling them all the cool stuff they could go do. Imagine his suprise when we got home and he got told since he was "sick" he had to stay in bed all day, that he could read books but that was it. I got this look that said well when Cale comes home he'll wont make me stay in bed. Needless to say he was in bed all day. It was really funny when I brought him lunch of toast and chicken noodle soup, he looked at me like are you kidding I want real food. I told him that he needed light foods for his stomache because it was hurting. He just scowled at me it was hilareous. Anyway he ended up in bed all day, pouting, crying (poor boy still thinks tears have an effect on us lol) bored to death. His caseworker had her visit yesterday and we told her what was up adn she went in to chat with him like they do she came out and said he isn't sick, All in all I think he learned something adn went to school very willingly today. Now don't get me wrong if he really was sick I would have let him lie down and watch tv and relax, but we knew he wasn't sick so he got to stay in bed. He told me later he thought I was going to lethim play and watch TV. No such luck. Anyway that was our story for the last little while. Things are still really tough and in fact they are getting worse in some areas. In the mean time we are doing the best that we can.

better

2009-04-29T14:07:00.000-07:00

Things are going ok, just taking one day at a time. We have a fabulous agency and incredible caseworker who I absolutely adore who have been so supportive. I think part of what my problem was that his Social worker (who is not part of our agency) was really putting the pressure on that this was it and we were going to adopt him done deal, she even brought adoption paperwork for us to start filling out. So that so didn't help. But we have both come to terms, with the fact that this is what it is and we are just enjoying having a kid around, if it works out great if it doesn't that will be ok too, at least for as long as he's here he will be well taken care of and feel loved. He is going to start school on Monday which he is VERY unexcited about, though he is finding out that staying at home with me isn't a barrel of fun all the time either cause I have stuff I have to do to like going to the gym, laundry and various other errands which he is good humored about for the most part, but he definitly has let me know that he would rather do something else. lol its kinda funny. We are going to Spokane this weekend. There's a comic artist that is going to be in Courde Laine and Cale wants to get some comics signed and then Karson's Birthday is on the 1st I can't believe he's 11 already. Oh before I forget I know that some of you are wondering why we haven't posted any pics of Beau, its not because of whats been going on. Its actually because Cale got a memo at work requesting that fosterparents not post pics of their foster kids online until after they are adopted. So sorry.

Thank you guys

2009-04-28T09:50:00.000-07:00

Thank you all so much for your support and advice it has really helped me to feel a bit better. Kim I am going to call you sometime next week to talk probablly Monday if thats ok, while Beau is in school. Eve thanks for your advice I am going to try to take some more time for myself and just give it time. It really helps to have an outside opinion. Chloe your right I am not used to having someone else around, though I am honestly not all that bothered he hasn't attached to me like he has Cale, even though no one believes me. I think one of my biggest thing right now is Cale feels the complete opposite as I do, he would adopt him tommarow if he could. Like I said he's a great kid no real problems or anything dream kid. I just wish I felt the same way. I just don't feel anything and I know it takes time and I am working on trying to build an attachement with him it could come to something or it might not. In the mean time I am just really worried what all this is doing to Cale, its so unfair to him and he has no one he can really talk to about it that really understands. This should be a happy time for him and I have ruined it for him. I am just so afraid of what Cale will think of me if it doesn't work out, that he will think less of me. He says its fine, that either way its ok but I don't believe him which just makes him mad. I know I am putting alot of pressure on myself that I don't need to be and I am trying not to but its hard when I know despite what he says Cale REALLY wants this kid and its been tearing me apart. But I am trying to adjust and believe him and just trust that everything will be ok. Who know's maybe I will completely fall in love with this kid by July I'm just afraid of what will happen if I don't. For now I am just trying to make sure everyone is happy and not worry about it too much. On the plus side I've lost 15 lbs. :)

I'm not supposed to feel like this

2009-04-27T15:38:00.000-07:00

Warning you this is more of a personal/therapy entry so read at your own risk. I have really been debating about whether to post about this or not but I figured oh well judge me how you will I guess. Anyway Beau came Thursday evening, and thats when I started crying and haven't really stopped. I feel like I have made a horrible mistake and because of it a wonderful little boy is going to suffer, I thought I was ready for this we have wanted it for so long and have begged and pleaded with the Lord to send us children. And he finally did and now I feel even more upset than ever. I have felt so much pressure to make this work ( brought on mostly by myself) and that I have to make it work and adopt him. His social worker didn't help saying how wonderful this was going to be, how we were perfect for him, ect... The problem is I feel no connection to him what so ever and don't honestly feel like this is supposed to be forever, which kills me because I want it to work so badly. I know its only been a few days and these things take time but I honestly don't know if this is going to work. I am going to try my best to make this work. But I honestly just don't know. Its not that I have already made up my mind its not going to work, I want it to and am honestly going to give it all I've got. I just don't know it just doesn't feel right, right now. He doesn't call us mom or dad which is fine, we didn't expect him to and we don't refer to ourselves as mom and dad either. He's a great kid he really is no real problem that we have seen Poor Cale I have been so stressed out and upset its just breaking his heart, we finally have a child and he finally has the son he has always wanted and I am a wreck, he says it buyers remorse :) but I just don't know. He's already half in love with the kid and Beau is already attached to him like glue, seriously he wants very little to do with me, which I really am ok with. He has so much on his plate and now he has a wife who is falling apart. It kills me to know the hell I am putting him through. The poor guy has no outside outlet to talk to about all this. This is not how I envisioned feeling nor is it how I want to feel. It's been so bad that I actually talked to the bishop about it and he is going to arrange for us to talk to someone about it. Its only been a few days. But I can't continue like this, luckily the kid doesn't really have a clue. And thankfully they moved the termination trial back to July instead of May. So in the mean time I am trying to just take it one day at a time. Cale says I have a "Post Placement Depression" and has been incredibly supportive. He says this is a rough adjustment on him as well. Who knows, all I know is that we thought it would feel differently. THIS REALLY SUCKS AND IS COMPLETELY UNFAIR. So judge how you will, but this feels just plain awful.

Answers to your questions

2009-04-22T09:55:00.000-07:00

I have had several people ask if we are adopting or just Fostering Beau. We will hopefully be adopting him. They are going to court the end of May so hopefully he will be legally free then and they are going to try and expedite his adoption so we don't have to wait the usual 6 months. We are also going to be having a bbq or something in the next few weeks and you are all invited. I will post more info on that when we decide. Thank you all for your support and prayers.

At Last.....

2009-04-20T15:06:00.000-07:00

Ok for those of you who have asked us recently about the kid sitch we have been kinda quiet and cryptic about what we have said ....well that's because....... We're gonna be parents!!! Finally after almost 10 years of trying. We've known for about 2 weeks ( you know that not saying anything has just about killed me) we just didn't want to say anything until it was for sure ( didn't want to jinx it), they have been working on final details and we got the phone call this morning saying it was a done deal. We are hoping to have him the end of this week. Possible as early as Thursday night. We have to have a phone conference about what kinds of things he needs as far as services go and what not but then he's ours. We are way excited. Now I get to go through stuff and see if I even have anything for him because he apparently wont be coming with much. That's our news.......Oh yeah what are we getting....lol... In case you were wondering and I am sure you weren't lol... Its a boy. His name is Beau he just turned 7 a couple weeks ago is in 1st grade and they said he is absolutely adorable. And for those of you guys in Spokane we will be up the 1st weekend in May and try to come say hi. Anyway so yes finally our little family is going to be growing.

Please help support this

2009-04-13T11:58:00.000-07:00

Hey guys please come support this event all of the proceeds go towards helping our foster parents and providing the ability to have activities for the kids. It will be alot of fun and its for a great cause so please come out and support us. You don't have to run it infact most people will be walking. If you are interested please emai us and we'll get you an entry form.

caleandsharon@gmail.com

Turning 30

2009-03-18T13:46:00.000-07:00

So I have the greatest husband in the world. A couple weeks ago we went to Baskin Robbins for ice cream cause we haven't done that in a REALLY long time. While we werew there we looked at the differenct little cakes and thing that they had. I asked Cael if he had ever had an ice cream cake and he said he had and that they were "ok" . I said I had never had one and that was the end of it. So I thought. On Saturday we were at my parents celebrating my dads 65th Birthday. Cale left to go run some errands. When he came back he had this cute little Ice cream cake from baskin robbins it was perfect. On Sunday when we got home from church he suprised with a balloon and some of my favorite things. He was so sweet and thoughtful (not that isn't all of the time) I was completely suprised especially with the cake cause honestly it wasn't one of those hinting I want one of those kind of things, it was just a passing thing that I honestly hadn't given a second thought, but he remembered.

Heres some pics of my cake doesn't he have good taste

by the way it was yummy!!!

Ok not my most flattering shot but do I honestly look 30?

Whats new....

2009-03-18T13:20:00.001-07:00

Honestly not much. Cale's mega busy with work and Elders Quarum stuff. I decided that I needed to do more for my work out other than just the gym. So I netflixed the Jillian Michaels 30 day shred and cardio kickboxing. I am proud to say that I survived my first week and am not half way through my 2nd. I feel like they're only 25-30 mins but boy do you get a work out and BOY do you feel it the next morning. The first day I did it I could barely walk the next day I hurt so bad. But I am happy to say it is getting better still REALLY sore and feel like I am going to die durring the work outs some but I am still doing it everyday. So hopefully by the end of the month with doing that and going to the gym I will start to see some more obvious results. Nothing new with kids. We're still waiting as usual. Our patience with all this is about run out. We offically decided that if we don't have any kids placed with us by August then we are going to see about going with a different agency. I love the one we have, but we don't feel that they are really advocating for us to get some of these kids that need homes. So we decided that August was a fair month, that will have given us our license for almost a year and I think that by then they should be able to have us kids. If we don't have any kids by then then we are switching. We know that Cale job isn't helping but give me a break, the whole time we were getting our license we were being told about all this kids that they had that would have been great for us if we were licensed, and then when we get our license all of a sudden there are no kids or the social workers don't want to place over here In fact we are actually talk to a different agency now about what we would have to do about transfering our license , what we will have to do over and what not. Really don't want to switch but we have to go with someone who is going to promote us and advocate for us with the social workers. So we will see what happens. We are still hoping to have kids soon but are not going to hold our breath. so Anyway thats whats new with us

Spokane people I need info

2009-02-27T08:58:00.000-08:00

Ok so I decided to finally bite the bullet adn get my wrist operated on. Problem is there is no one in Moses Lake that does it. I could go to Wentatchee, but I would rather go to Spokane. The problem is I don't know who any orthopedic Docs are and who is good and who isn't. The only Docs I know about are the ones from Rockwood in Cheney and they are why I am in this mess now in the first place so I really don't want to ude any of them. Any advice any of you have would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks guys

2009-02-17T17:32:00.000-08:00

Thank you all so much for offering us your opinions and advice. We know that it might not be the most glamorous job in the world but for free rent and some extra cash on top of it we are going to take it if it is offered. So who know we could be moving again very shortly or they could say ya know you guys are nice enough but the other guy has some experience so we're going with him. which is entirely possible. Though after talking with the manager, who really doesn't care for the guy, I don't think so but you never know she's not the one who does the hiring. I turned in our stuff and she said we should hear something tomarrow about setting up an interview. We'll keep you all posted.

I need your opinions!!

2009-02-16T21:26:00.000-08:00

Ok so we got a phone call from Cale's friend Corey this morning about a possible job doing maintenance at their Apartment complex. Well we called on it and went and talked to the manager. We would only have to do 20-25 hrs a week pretty simple stuff. Cleaning after move outs which I know can be pretty bad sometimes, possibly painting, making minor repairs, picking up garbage that kind of stuff nothing to terribly major. They have someone who takes care of the lawn so we wouldn't have to worry about that. That pays for a decent sized 3 bedroom 2 bath apartment and give a few hundred extra a month. It will also mean that we'll save $550 a month cause that's what we pay now for rent. Major plus is that she has absolutely no problem what so ever with me having the kids with me while I am cleaning and what not. I have been looking for something I could do kind of part time that I could take my kids with me ( when we finally get them) with out it being a problem and this would work. She said its pretty quiet over there, its not a HUGE complex no fights really ( we called the cops on the neighbors again cause he hit his kid and was yelling profanities that I could hear from inside our house with the washer and dryer and TV going. The apartment is pretty decent like I said 3 bed 2 bath which having 2 baths is huge especially with kids around. BUT it would mean moving, packing up all our stuff and moving again. It means that when Cale gets home from work already exhausted that he could have more work to do including on his Saturdays. We're perfectly fine where we are at right now we are settled. We're just getting tired of our landlords. I am debating about possibly taking over my Mother in laws job flyering for Domino's cause I could take our kids with me and pretty much do it as I want to but I don't think it would be near the pay what it would be doing the maintenance stuff so we are kind a leaning towards that if they decide to hire us. We have to take the applications back tomorrow and then they set up interviews and what not. So what do you guys think, would you take it if it were offered. It doesn't seem like anything major as far as work goes and I know I could do most of it myself so Cale would only have to take care of the major more complicated stuff, which isn't really that major of stuff. So what would you guys do??

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!!

2009-02-14T10:59:00.000-08:00

We hope that you all have a fabulous Valentines Day!!!

What we have been doing

2009-02-11T10:33:00.000-08:00

I started this a little bit ago had to go do some stuff and thought it was saved guess not. Anyway we went to Gig Harbor this weekend and had a blast!! Cale had to do some work stuff on Friday and then we had a memorial that he was asked to conduct/officiate at. He was mega nervous but he did AWESOME!! After that we spent Saturday afternoon and evening just walking around the harbor and looking in little shops. Some of the house are AMAZING the kind of houses you see in the movies they were massive!!! They are nice to look at but we definitely wouldn't want to live in one. I would probably get lost not to mention all the cleaning good grief, but they were fun to see It was so much fun just hanging out no interruptions or anything. I know that some people might be like you guys spend all your time together you don't have kids to interrupt or complicate it. But we do have our phones, church callings that we have to take care of, outside family drama to deal with, and just little thing that eat up your time. So it was nice to get away. One of the best parts was that since this was a partial work trip they will pay for gas over and back, meals and one night accommodations so pretty much they are paying for everything. Which makes it really nice cause we couldn't afford to take trips like this other wise. Anyway getting back to our trip we had a GREAT time this time I took my camera unfortunately my batteries were dying and I kept forgetting to get new ones so taking pictures was a bit complicated had to get our shot turn the camera on and take the picture quick before it shut off. Oh well, we got some good shots anyway. This is in our room at the Howard Johnson in Fife we actually were getting stuff packed up cause our shower sucked so tehy up graded us to a jacuzzi suite for free

We found this spot while we were walking around it actually kinda in the middle of a yacht delership, yes I said Yacht dealership, there was actually 2 or 3 of them down there.

Some of the massive boats that are docked there. if you loo really close you can see some of the home on the lake and how massive they are.

We called this wall the Bird Apartments. This pictures doesn't do it justice but there were 100's of them in there I will edited it aand post a better shot later.

I love this shot. I thought this chair was so awesome it was made totally from a tree trunk. I loved it!! The guys not too bad either. heeheehee

Can we say cheesy!! LOLA closer view of the little light house we saw. How cool is that. We found this cute little restaurant/diner called Kelly's that we had dinner at the food was ok not the best ever but not the worst. Cale got borred so he decided I needed my pic taken again.lol silly boy.

Our waiter saw Cale take my pix and asked if we wanted him to take one of us together. We had a great time, if any of you ever get to the Tacoma area you should go check it out.

We finally made it!!!

2009-02-02T21:12:00.000-08:00

We have been trying to go to the temple for like 3 months and everytime something would come up, we would have respite or other plans had been made. So last Saturday we were finally able to go!! We were way excited to be able to go. For various reasons, which I wont get into, we haven't been for a very long time. It as just an awesome day. We are going to try and plan to go at least once a month. We met up with some friends there and then went to Red Robin for lunch it was great got to love the all you can eat fries!! LOL! I have to tell you all what an awesome husband I have. We went to the mall because Bath and Body works ( my absolute fave Store) was having a huge sale one lotions and body sprays, $3 for $10-$11 stuff. My darling husband went with me and smelled everything and gave me opinions on them, put up with my , well maybe I don't really want that one, I am the most indecisive person around, or what do you think of this one. a hundred million times. NEVER once did he say or give me the look "don't you have enough of the crap already" or complain. He is so awesome anytime I say that I need something or want it he tries his best to make sure I have it no questions asked. Of course he says its because I never really want anything so it is never a big deal, but still... Anyway it was a great weekend all around. Hope you all had a great one too!!

Rejection

2009-01-27T14:20:00.000-08:00

Warning long angry blog Yet again we were rejected as possible parents for a set of 3 siblings 3,2,1. We didn't tell anyone really but he few who did know are checking on here to see what happened. We actually got closer this time we were supposed to have a phone conference with the Social Worker Monday but apparently she found a family Friday that she thought was perfect so she has decided to place with them. I am really not sure what it is exactly we are supposed to be learning from this particular trial, or how it is supposed to be making us better people because all its doing for me is making me angry, and feeling like there is something wrong with me that maybe this is the Lords way of saying I'm not really cut out for the mommy thing. I mean seriously isn't it bad enough we can't have our own kids, but now its lets make this whole process as absolutley difficult as it can possibly be for them. We go through absolute hell just to get our license, then when we finally do get it there are no kids available for placement or the social workers don't want to place with us for whatever reason. When is enough enough? Come on we tried to have kids for almost 10 years, we started this whole Foster adopt thing last April, its now almost Febuary almost a year later and we still don't have any kids. CAN WE PLEASE GET A BREAK!!! I know I totally have a bad attitude about this and that many of you might think thats what the problem is but. I didn't get this attude about it over night this has taken 10 years to get this way. Sorry to vent at ya'll, this whole thing has just been unbelievably hard on us. On a brighter note there is a position in Spokane with Elder Services for the state that Cale is going to be applying for so maybe he'll get it and we can move back to Spokane soon. Who knows where we will end up. Keep an eye out for 3 bedroom apartments for us for reasonable rent like 600-700 rent.

Parking

2009-01-22T21:16:00.000-08:00

Ok i know 3 posts in like 2 days holy cow. But I had to share this with you, I got a good laugh about it. If you read my previous "venting" post. You know what happened last night with our neighbors. Well tonight I came home from Enrichment and pull up to our little parking lot and low and behold theres a minivan parked in there and I can't park. I just had to laugh at thatit was soo funny to me I ened up parking on the street so I could go knock on the door and ask them to please move their van. I was nice about it and everything, no point in being a jerk not like it was a massive big deal, plus it was the missionaries with another couple of members from our ward. I just thought it was funny and wanted to share it with you all. ** oh and no the neighbor offered no apologies, when I knocked on the door I could just hear him saying thats Cale wanting you to move your van, Suprise it was me!! I thought it was funny and got a good chuckle out of it. :)

Its official we have grown up

2009-01-22T13:45:00.000-08:00

We finally sucked it up and did it we got life insurance. We have been talking about it for forever and just never had gotten around to it. But we finally did it last night. We have offically joined the ranks of the insured. YEA!!!

Venting

2009-01-21T22:32:00.000-08:00

OK so, we have an insurance guy come over tonight, to talk to us about getting life insurance and what not. We're sitting at the table with him and all of a sudden we hear this LOUD banging on our door seriously thought someone was going to break it down. Scared the crap out of us. Turns out it was our lovely Neighbor who lives next door to us. Apparently the insurance guy had parked in our driveway and he couldn't park his car in his spot. Rather than saying hey are you parked out there could you please move it so I can park, he was really pissy about it demanding that it be moved NOW and then when the insurance guy was all apologetic about it saying, hey I didn't know I haven't ever been here before the neighbor told him he didn't care and that he had better never do it again. Blah blah blah. He also noticed that our screen door chain had broken and got in our face about it and was like you needed to tell me so I could get it fixed and was a real JERK about it acted like it was the end of the world. Seriously not joking. They wonder why they haven't been able to keep a tenant more than a few months. You just don't treat people like that. What sad is that how he treats most people in general. His wife is almost as bad but not quite. I am debating about whether to have Cale say something to him about how it was VERY inappropriate of him to act like that and to treat our guest like that. Seriously give me a break, When we have people over they need to feel comfortable not that they are going to get their heads handed to them which is what our neighbor did tonight. The other thing that has been driving us crazy is the fact that their 8 year old daughter who comes over here for activity days is always saying that its their house and implies very strongly that they can come and go in our home as they please. She said something yesterday in front of Cale and he was less than happy but what can you say to a little kid. I really want to say something about all this to them but I am also TERRIFIED of him he has a horrible temper plus we have to see them at church on Sundays, yes they are members. What do you think we should do? Should we let it go or are we justified in saying something we do pay rent like I said, and I feel we should be treated with some level of respect. Let us know.

This Month where did it go....

2009-01-21T13:16:00.000-08:00

OK Seriously where has the month gone I can't believe it is already almost of the end January. We have been in Moses Lake over a year now. Time is sure flying by. Not that that's a bad thing it means that soon it will be spring and all the icky cold and snow will be gone YEA!!!! This month we celebrated Cale's 32 Birthday, unfortunately we didn't really do anything super fabulous. His birthday was in the middle of the week and then he had an Elders Quorum party on Saturday so that kind of took care of that I guess. We really haven't had a lot going on lately. We just got back from Spokane, Cale went to Wyoming for a few days for work and then we stayed for the rest of the week in Spokane . So that was a blast we got to do some much needed shopping done and got our mall fix. and got to spend some time with Scott and Quila. While Cale was in Wyoming I got to go hang out with our friends Katie and Joe and Brenda which was awesome we had a great time catching up with them and playing with their kids. Miss you guys!!! Cale had a job interview yesterday with Grant County mental Health we don't think he'll take it if they offer it, its not much more pay and it would mean more hours and not as good of Benefits, So we'll see they are supposed to call him by the end of the week and till him yes or now and then we'll see what they offer for pay. Its not like he has to have a job right this second he has a good paying job with great insurance. So we'll see what happens. Other than that not much is going on. We heard today about possible kids but we don't know anything definite yet.

Baby Update

2009-01-02T12:55:00.000-08:00

Just letting you know that we found out today we probablly wont be getting Jahrion, his current foster family want to keep him another month or 2, to transition him out. so they most likely wont be having him placed with us. In fact I don't think they are even looking at us as a possible placement for him anymore. So anyway thats our latest and greatest.

AAARRRGGG!!!

2008-12-31T14:37:00.001-08:00

I am so frustrated!!! Apparently the little boy that we have been asked about taking, has to be moved from the temp placement and placed by this Friday and no one has heard from the Social Worker!!! The placement coordinator is fuming. I understand better than most Foster parents how busy and hectic things can get for Social Workers...Hello Cale does the same thing she does.... So we really get it. but if he has to be placed and moved by this Friday you would think that this would take some kind of priority. Apparently not.

I talked to our agency and she said we should know something for sure by Friday. I told her that we would really like him but if she gets other referrals for kiddos that we are interested, we can't pass up other kids while we are waiting for this other Social Worker to decide if she is even going place him here. Cross your fingers and pray we hear something soon

The Waiting Game

2008-12-30T14:26:00.000-08:00

I realized I have really slacked off on posting stuff on here. That could have something to do with the fact that I have been sick and felt like garbage the last few weeks. Gosh I love having colds. Sorry I don't have any pics loaded yet we didn't really take very many this year. We had a very pleasant Christmas, it was very laid back and relaxed. We stayed home on Christmas Eve and did our own thing together. Cale would tell you the best part was dinner, we decided that Subway was the way to go. Anyone who knows us know that we don't really do much that's "traditional". LOL So anyway Christmas Day we went to Cale's mom's in the morning, Kara and her family had come up the night before so it was nice to see them. Then we went to my parents opened more presents and had dinner.Then we went out to his dad and Step moms for awhile in the evening. So we had a busy day, 3 families crammed into one day. phew, Unfortunately Scott and Quila and Chris weren't able to come up, because of the weather. So we will have an extended Christmas with them later. Life has been pretty mellow for right now. Though we are expecting that to change anytime now. Hence The title the Waiting Game. A couple days before Christmas we got a phone call about an 18 month old little boy. After asking Angela a 101 questions (she has the patience of a saint) We decided that IF they do decide to place him with us that we do want him. So we are hoping that by the end of the week we will know one way or another by the end of the week. So we are crossing our fingers and praying right now that it works out. We will make sure to keep everyone updated on what happens, but this time it is looking very promising. We hope that you all had a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS

Christmas trees, wyoming and kids

2008-12-09T15:00:00.000-08:00

Its hard to believe thats its really almost Christmas again. This time last year we were up to our eyebrows in boxes and getting stuff ready to move. I don't recomend moving during the holidays by the way, thankfully our families all understood us not coming up, especially since we would be there a few days later anyway.

We finally got our Christmas tree decorated this weekend when the girls came up again. its ben up since the day after Thanksgiving we just hadn't gotten it decorated, so we thought it wouldbe fun to do while they were here.

Cale has been in Wyoming for the last couple of days and he'll have to go back again at the end of the month, but then that should be it. I am very grateful for my cell so that even when he's far away I can still talk to him about stuff. . The house is too quiet when he's gone. Thankfully he's coming back tonight. In fact he is in Spokane right now, doing some shopping. Before he comes home, said he wanted some Cale time. He deserves it he works really hard all the time and doesn't really get any time to just relax and do what he wants to do.

That time is going to become even rarer soon. I called and talked to Angela at our agency and she said that she has goten some kids that would be prospective placements for us. YEA!!! but she is waiting to hear back from their workers, so hopefully our little family will be growing larger. We had figured that we wouldn't get kids until after the new year, but now maybe it will be just in time for Christmas. She said to cross our fingers and pray that they get back to her soon. so thats what we're doing. We will make sure to send out something offically as soon as we hear something!!!

Thanksgiving

2008-11-29T23:43:00.000-08:00

Well now that I have recovered from our early morning shopping adventures, and can't think coherently, let alone type decently..lol.. Our Thanksgiving was pretty quiet for the most part, I think this was the first time we were in Moses Lake for Thanksgiving in like 5 years. Since we have been living in Spokane was the past 6 years, I think we came back for Thanksgiving once and decided that trying to coordinate 3 families was too much for us to do in one day and have opted to stay in Spokane. So this was the first time we were around. We had dinner at my parents, which was really good. My uncle and his Girlfriend from Utah was there from Utah, they drive up every year, Chris came up for Cheney which was nice. Scott and Quila opted to stay in Spokane, Hopefully they will be able to come up for Christmas. We actually just enjoyed being able to relax, we were hoping that we would have our babies for Thanksgiving, but it was nice to be able to just relax too I am sure next year we will be quite busy chasing after them. lol. Anyway Cales dad and Pam were out of town so we didn't see them, but his mom came over later that evening and we visited for a little while. So all in all that was our thanksgiving. We hope that you all enjoyed yours too. Will post more later about shopping and what not tomorrow its almost midnight and I still have to look at my lesson for my Sunbeams tomorrow. Oh I would have posted pics but I can't find my camera anywhere AARRGG!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2008-11-28T00:04:00.000-08:00

We hope that you all had a great day and got to eat lots and lots!! We had a pretty good day. Got to sleep in and just lounge around for awhile. Was actually really nice, especially since it is probablly the last Thanksgiving we will be able to do that for a long time. Anyway It was a pretty good day, will fill you all in on the details...I know you are all dying of suspense..lol... But we are getting up early to hit some of the stores, we'll tell ya all about it tommarow, after our naps!!LOL Congrats to Bernard and Tiffany on their new addition!!!!

What we have been up too

2008-11-25T15:57:00.000-08:00

Honestly not a lot.... We are still waiting for our kids.... and waiting and waiting........ We are really hoping that we will have them before Christmas, again hoping. We went to Spokane this last weekend and got to see Joe Baptize Cordin that was really cool Congrats!!! And we went to A friends 50th Birthday party and McQ's. Tons of fun. We got to play some pool and I even won a game, legitly, Cale didn't even let me win or nothing. Wish there was sompleace here we could go to play here. We are staying here for thanksgiving, my family in the early afternoon and Cales dad in the later afternoon/evening. Got an email from his mom today telling us about her plans so it looks like she's doing her own thing. No problem there. Haven't had any respite other than our last one at the beginning of the month we ended up with him for an extra day cause everyone there was sick. Wasn't too much problem. He only threw one fit and that was cause he wanted a snack before bed and he was told no, he is on a strict eating schedule. Cale literally had to physically pick him up and lie him in his bed. He takes meds right before bed and has to lie down immeaditely. Man did he cry you would have thought his life was over. Oh well... Thats why we have doors and can close them right..lol. apparently the state of Wa budget crisis is worse than originally thought. Cale said they had an emergency meeting yesterday and were actually asking for volunteers to get laid off. They have to let 36 people go from Region 2 (our region). He has about 4-5 people below him and right now its the temp postions that are giong to go first, Thankfully his boss knew this was comming and gmade him permenant, which doesn't mean he is safe, it just means that he wont be the first to go. So right now we are praying he gets to keep his job other wise we are SOL, Though since this is happening we have decided that we will be putting his loans into forbearance for another year. We just can't afford to have those hanging over our heads while his job is so unstable. If something happens we need to have a chunk in our our savings to live on for awhile if we have to. We think his job is safe, but we are ptuuing out feelers just to see what else is out there just in case. you know the whole Hope for the best plan for the worst thing.

This Week

2008-11-08T22:27:00.000-08:00

We have had lots of stuff going on this week. Got a call on Monday about doing respite for a little boy. He has some health issues, so we will see how it goes. Its only for one day and night and Cale will be home so it shouldn't be too bad. We are still waiting to get a call for our own kids. we are hoping that it will be soon, then the real "fun" will start.lol I had my 2nd activity Day with the girls at my house I think it worked out well. They all seemed to have a good time. They put together their binders to keep all of their stuff, which meant I got to go shopping, which was great since I love to go shopping...most of the time....lol. So that was on Tuesday. Cales had meetings and visits to do this week so he has been really busy, espcially since this Sunday is ward conference. Thursday brought my Dr. appt to get the results from all the tests that they did last week, 3 vials of blood and I had a different nurse and she wouldn't use the baby needle like the last one did, said since they were taking so much blood it would take too long, I like the other nurse better... So anyway went to my appt, thankfully Cale was able to go so I didn't have to come home and try and repeat everything to him. Anyway she said that I am defintly not diabetic or have metabloc syndrome, but she said she is officially diagnosing me with Poly Systic Ovarian Syndrome ( PCOS) and on top of that my hormones are seriously our of wack, like the 2 that are supposed to be pretty close, well one is about normal and the other one is 3-4 times what it is supposed to be, so for right now I get to take progesterone for 10 days and then hopely that will start things going again, but at least for the next 3 months I get to take the birth Control pill. For those of you who remember what I was like when I was on it before, feel free to send your condolenses to Cale. Hopefully this pill will work a little different, crying uncontrolably in the middle of the grocery store is embarressing. So that was Thursday. Friday we headed to Spokane YEA!!!!! My mom had bought some tires from a friend thinking they would fit the GEo when they had it, well they were too small. So they have been sitting in her shed for quite awhile, she wanted to get rid of them cause they were takin gup space and they couldn't use them, so I put them on craigslist and got them sold to a guy in Canada, who was going to be in Spokane today. So we headed up there Friday night and crashed at Scott and Quilas, then met him this morning sold them and then enjoyed our day in Spokane. While Cale was at the comic book store trading in some games adn comic books I ran over to goodwill to kill some some and ran in to Crystal, so I got to see the kids and chat with them for a few minutes. That was really cool. We headed over to JOe and Brendas for a while and were bummed cause we found out that Brenda had to work, Cale had thought that she had Saturday night off, Sorry we missed you Brenda!!! We decided to go bowling with Jo and the kids that was a blast. It was great watching Gideon bowl, he got his ball and he rolled it down the lane he actually did pretty good too. lol,You guys may have a little bowler on your hands. It was great just hanging out and having some fun for awhile. We are excited to go back up for Cordan baptism in a couple weeks. We are definitly going to go out and do something Brenda will be able to go this time YEA!!!

Going private

2008-11-02T20:30:00.000-08:00

I am officailly going private on here, I have been getting comments from single people wanting to hook up with Cale and I, Yeah I know Nasty huh. So we are going to be private as of Friday so get me your email address and I will add you, so you can get in. I will try and add those whose email I have already but thats not many of you. So please send me your emails.

Our weekend, Walmart rant....

2008-10-31T09:14:00.000-07:00

I finally got some pics on here so I can post this now.

As most of you all know by now we finally got our foster parent license last Friday and we had the oppurtunity to do respite for 2 little girls 10 and 6.

They were the perfect kids for us to have for our first ones to break us in a bit. We had them from Sat until Tuesday morning. The only down side was that we had to get up and 5 am to make sure everyone was dressed and ready for school, they got to take Monday off, before their pick up came at 6:30am, but we pulled it off with time to spare. We had loads of fun went to the park which they loved carved a pumpkin. It was just great to have kids around again, can't wait till we get our own placements, who will now be the same age as theses 2 were they will be quite a bit younger, like a baby and a 2 or 3 year old, that we are better equipped to handle. We'll have the right beds, carseats ect... Anyway we had an awesome weekend. The girls seemed sad to be leaving, but I think that had more to do with they didn't want to go to school than anything else. LOL. I was able to take some pictures our last day at the park, Brenda these pics don't really do her justice but I swear we found Gabby's twin, not kidding, I wish I could have gotten a better shot that showed it more, but she was being a stinker.lol

Having fun at the park Finally she let me take a good pic of her. Of course I had to let her take a self portrait, but hey what ever works right. I thought she did a pretty good job

and of course what one does the other must also.

I have now decided that I am going to do my best to buy the bulk of my stuff online. I swear everytime I go to the Walmart here they NEVER have what I need in stock, and finding someone that will actually help you is a joke in this store. We went in Saturday cause we had to get a booster seat for Hailey, the one I wanted for $15 wasn't on the shelf anywhere. so Cale being the fabulous husband he is is finally able to track somebody down,which in this store is no small feat, to see if we can get some one to help us. They said they would get right on it, Yea whatever, 15 minutes later we are still waiting, so needless to say we ended up paying $30 for a booster seat beacuse that was all they had onthe shelf, for those who really know me know I am the queen of cheap I craigslist, garage sale, goodwill it up, I was not happy about spending $30, and many of you might not agree with this but that seat is going back, I refuse to pay that kind of money for something when they have the same thing for 1/2 the price, they just wouldn't help up. This isn't the first time something like this has happened, we'll ask someone to see if they have anymore of something and they either come back like 2-3 minutes later saying no sorry we're out, you know they didn't go look, or they just plain don't come back.

we took the booster seat back today, with no problem On a more positive note Yesterday I finally found the diaper bag that I wanted in Tricities at Big Lots, I love that store, it was only $12.99 and it came with the hard wipee case, that I have been looking everywhere for, so I don't have to lug the whole tub around, and it came with a mini diaper bag. this is exactly what I have been looking for, I wanted a big bag for trips and stuff and a little one for going to the store and church. I haven't been able to find one for a price I was willing to pay, normally the big bag was like $20 and a small bag was like $14 I got a matching set $12.99. And its a cute bag.That was my find of the day yesterday. When we found it Cale said get it, it was exactly what we had been looking for.

Tagged by Holly

2008-10-29T10:43:00.000-07:00

I started this awhile ago and am finally finshing it..lol... Rules are: First state who tagged you.Then answer your 7 weirdest/quirkiest things about yourself. Tag 7 people Leave a message on those that you tag blog so they know they are tagged 1. I always eat candy bars in layers, chocolate first then the bottom and then the middle. 2. I am WAY obsessed with how my house smells, I used to ALWAYS have candles burning, now I have a huge supply of Wallflowers.

3. I don't usually like the typical girly movies, I am an action comedy kind of girl. Lucky for Cale 4. Everytime Cale goes out of town I rearrange the furniture. He is a good sport about it ... usually...lol 5. This one grosses Cale out, I usually pour milk over my ice cream before I eat it. I just like it that way. plus then I can mash it up so a milk shake. 6. I am probablly the cheapest person you will ever meet. I refuse to pay more for things than I absolutly have to. 7. I love the comic book movies, except Spiderman, I just couldn't get into that one... So now I tag Brenda, Maggie, Paula, Bethany, Kreanna, Tiffany, Karen

8:30 am

2008-10-27T08:31:00.000-07:00

Its just barely 8:30 and I have to say that I am quite proud of us. Cale was up this morning and out he door for work at 7:30, which doesn't happen hardly ever and so far this morning I have done all the dishes from yesterday, cause I try really hard not to do stuff on Sunday, swept the floor, wiped the table off, actually gotten dressed and had breakfast, and picked up the living room, except of course for the lego projects that are currently under construction, sorted laundry to put in the washer, checked and responded to email, and posted this blog and its just barely 8:30 in the morning, of course the kids aren't up yet, LOL. Our weekend has been pretty good so far, I will post all about it tommarow, along with lots of pictures from our weekend. sounds like the kids are getting up. More later.

Acitivty Day

2008-10-24T22:46:00.001-07:00

I had my first activity day with the girls on Tuesday. I was a bit nervous cause I haven't really worked with girls that age before, I am usually 1- 5 year olds, it was alot of fun we had 4 girls show up and they were just awesome. I had the activity this time and they really seemed to like it, They had to make a lesson for Family Home Evening lesson about the 1st vision and Heavenly Father answering our prayers. I forgot my camera but I'll make sure I have it next time. I am in charge of the activity every other month, for December we are going to make something any one have ay ideas of something that 8-11 year old girls might like to do?

AT LAST!!!

2008-10-24T22:38:00.000-07:00

OUR LICENSE IS DONE!!!! It took someone needing emergency respite for a few days, lots and lots of prayer and Angela having to really hound the lady but its done, and we are going to have 2 little girls 6 and 10 starting tommarow for a few days. when we get our permanent placements they will be much younger, we weren't completely prepared to have a 10 year old but thanks to mom letting us use the spare bed she has, it will work. We are way excited to have kids around again, way nervous cause its been so long since we've had kids. No more late night trips to Walmart. Thanks you all for your prayers they were very appreciated. We will let you all know how it goes!!

kid news

2008-10-13T15:05:00.000-07:00

So Cales finger prints are in, we just don't know yet if they have cleared, but it wont matter cause this is the thrid time through if they didn't clear they run the FBI check which takes them all of 5-10 minutes to complete, basically they call give them his info adn they call back in a few minutes. So we are hoping and praying and everything else that this is finally going to be over this week and we will be officially licensed. Angela is hoping that it will be done this week. She has been so awesome to work with. So keep your fingers crossed and pray that the people from region 2 get their act together and get it done. We'll keep you all posted.

Hello Mr. President

2008-10-13T14:49:00.001-07:00

Be careful what you wish for.... I thought that would be a fitting start to this post, just ask Cale. For the last several weeks Cale has wanted to be able to go to Elders quarum, cause when your in Primary you are pretty isolated from everyone else. We thought ok when the kids come then he will ask to be released because he'll need to take care of them while I am in primary. So that was going to be our plan. Well a few weeks ago the Spanish branch started doing their own thing. so there went half our class. When you only have maybe 3 -4 sunbeams you really don't neeed 2 teachers, It was nice having Cale in there cause he speaks spanish and it was great for the one who were monolingual Spanish. So anyway back to our plan, a couple weeks ago we get called into the stake pres office, really kinda nervous, I knew it couldn't be me cause I am already in primary and I do the Activity Day for the girls. So we knew it had to be about Cale, but we just didn't know what... We joked that it could be a stake mission, or bishopric ( he loved that one :s not) Elders quarum pres ( that was right up there with bishopric), he was thinking more along the lines of Stake ensign subscription person. He is now the new Elders Quarum president. when the stake president said that we laughed, that was the one I thought of, Cale had told me earlier no they wont do that cause Jon was doing a great job. Needless to say I now live with the President..LOL...

Prev. Post

2008-09-25T08:53:00.000-07:00

I don't know why it keeps posting like that ( my tagged post) but I have tried and tried to change it and it keeps showing up like a paragraph, even though in the preview its not. oh well hopefully it will make since to you all.

Tagged!

2008-09-24T10:26:00.000-07:00

Thanks Kre 1.Two names you go by:1. Sharon 2. Sharbear 2.Two things you are wearing right now:1. Work out pants 2. Red old navy Tshirt 3.Two things you ate today:1. Slim fast( Well technically drank) 2. gum (does that count) 4.Two things you did last night:1. Cooked dinner 2. Found some old mission pics of Cales that we hadn't seen before and looked through them together 5.Two things you want very badly at this moment:1. To have our fosterparent license and have our kiddos already 2. to have a new/better camera 6. Last two people you just spoke to:1. Cale 2. My dad 7. Two things you're doing tomorrow:1. cleaning 2. making a necklace ( my latest adventure... what can I say I'm borred) 8.Two longest car rides:1. Washington to South Jordan, Utah 2. Washington to Portland, Oregon 9.Two favorite beverages:1. Water 2. Flavored Water from Walmart Ok, now I'm going to tag Paula, Maggie, Brenda love you guys !!!