Day #2

Today:

1.Threw away the George Forman Fat-free-grilling-knock-out-the-fat-let-freedom-ring machine.

2. Cleaned the basement.

3. Chose 10 toys to donate.

4. Filled a garbage bag with broken toys and general trash.

Step-by-step

This is it.

I had trouble falling asleep last night. I started to think. Odd. . . I know. :)

I've been living the past four months "in the minimum". I was so tired with my pregnancy, then I got a job and discovered that I was was still so tired. My kids didn't suffer: they are a priority. Gary didn't suffer (except when I couldn't cook because I felt so awful!) because he is my number 1 priority. My house on the other hand. . . . I did just what I had to do.

Last night. . . while laying in bed. . . I decided that it was time. Time to organize my bedroom (it has become my dumping ground over the past few months). Time to go through the shelves in the laundry room. Time to go through the 13 tubs of kids clothes. Time to find a home for the bear skin rug (oh wait, there are two of them!) in Noel's closet.

It won't all get done today. It won't all get done this week. But, every day I plan to do SOMETHING, if even for fifteen minutes. Piece by piece, it will get done.

So today: I cleaned out my closet. I refolded. I made several piles to take to the donation center. I threw a bunch of stuff away. Yes Yes Yes. Then, the boys were up. So much for organizing more today.

Traditions

This morning on the radio, we talked about family traditions and asked listeners to call in with their family traditions. It was so much fun!

I did struggle a bit though. This year, our traditions might be different. For the first time in my life, I won't be celebrating Christmas in the house I grew up in, nor will I be celebrating with my dad. Oh, does my heart ache!

I know I haven't posted much about my dad. . . that is because there isn't much to say. He doesn't contact us and we won't be in contact with him until he gets help. It still baffles me that someone who claims to love his family so very much is choosing drugs rather than them. It comforts me to know that my dad, the one who raised me, who prayed for me, who disciplined me, who supported me. . . he wouldn't make that choice. No, this man isn't the dad that I know.

I continue to pray that he will get help. He is trying to do it "his way". He is trying to manipulate the system. We've been there. We've tried that. It doesn't work. Until he surrenders himself and gets help. . . we can't be with him.

I love you dad. My kids miss their Gramps. We pray that perhaps in this Christmas season you will hear the whisper of your family. . . perhaps it will sound good and you'll choose to get help. Then perhaps, we can be together again next Christmas. Then you can enjoy all of your Sprick grandkids. . . all four of them.

So this year, we'll still enjoy being together. We'll celebrate the coming of two new kids next year. We'll eat great food, open great presents, and take a great hike. We'll enjoy the hope we have in the Lord and enjoy His company. We'll pledge again to love and support each other. Things will be different this year, but perhaps Christmas will have a deeper meaning for us Koemans.

My latest job

I love my job. I've loved it every since I took it almost four and a half years ago. I'm a stay-at-home-mom. A lover of my husband, a doctor/caregiver/disciplinarian/giver-of-tons-of-hugs-and-kisses to my kids, and sometimes a cleaner of my house. I love it. I'm so thankful that I have the opportunity to do this every day. Granted, not every day goes well. Many days in fact I've had it. Can I be in time-out for the next two hours please? :) Most of the time though, you couldn't get me to trade this for anything. In fact, as I type this, Garrison just refilled my cup with some pretend hot chocolate. There is nothing like pretend hot chocolate prepared by your son. He takes such great care of his mom!

This month however, things are different. I have a paying job. I'm not ready to go back to work full time, but this has been such a great experience. I get to be the co-host. . . sidekick really. . . on the local morning Christian radio station. I get up at five every morning and head off to the studio. I've been able to do this for the past three weeks and have one more to go. Gary has been SO supportive of this! He changed his hours so that he can get up with the kids until I get home. He even set his alarm yesterday morning to record the show. . . so I have something for the kids to laugh at in 30 years. :)

Why do I love this job so much? Well, it has been a new challenge, one that lends itself to my gifts. I'm not good at it yet, but I'm getting better. Last week I only talked over the words of a song once. I love sharing tidbits of my life. I love laughing with my co-host Troy. I love talking with listeners on the phone. Secondly, I really enjoy spending a few hours with Troy every morning. He has taught me a ton about the radio, about the behind the scenes. We enjoy a good working relationship and even have so much fun together. This week I ended up on the floor because I was laughing so hard! That is great to do on the job! He has been so patient with me and I'm grateful that he called and offered me the chance of a lifetime. Finally, I'm learning so many new things! As I've left college and teaching behind, there are fewer opportunities for me to learn. I've learned new lingo, how radio works, how sales works, why we play certain things at certain times. . .it has been fascinating. All this plus meeting new co-workers, having intelligent adult conversations for a couple of hours every day, not making breakfast every day, having more than kids stories to share at the dinner table, bringing home a little income around Christmas, plus so much more. All in all, I love it!

I'm looking forward to next week. I love going in every day. I'm also looking forward to getting up with my kids again every day the week after that. Perhaps God will give me the opportunity to do this again sometime. I'd certainly be open to it. . . but at this point: my full-time job is here at our house. I've got four kids to take care of and I hear the fourth one my become a little more demanding come May. :)

A New Christmas

Christmas is new for us this year. The kids are getting the whole "present" thing. It has been fun, interesting, and discouraging at times to watch. They are so excited to see gifts under the tree. They don't have a clue as to getting stuff or asking for stuff. Yesterday, Garrison prayed to God for "Santa to come and bring us presents." We had a great conversation after that prayer. Everything is new. . .and I get to enjoy it. I loved wrapping presents tonight knowing that they will see them first thing in the morning. . . their first Christmas gifts from us. We've never done this before.

We've decided to get each one a toy, a piece of clothing, and a couple of games to share. Let's see if they can wait until Christmas Eve to open everything. :)

Oh. . .one more thing. . . if you get a chance to talk to Gary. . . PLEASE tell him not to get me any big presents! He always breaks the rules. Stinker.

Grandma Sternberg

My Grandma got to see Jesus last night. He welcomed her into heaven with open arms. I'm so thrilled for her. I'm so thrilled that someday, I'll be able to see Jesus with her.

My mom was with her when she died. We had been praying for that. . . been so hoping that mom would be with her. What an honor. . . for them both. I pray that God gives me the same honor with my mom.

Here are some of my favorite memories of my grandma.

When I was very little, my grandparents lived in the old farm house. Grandma had a sweets drawer, something that my parents did not have. She also let us visit the drawer often.

She kept a container filled with Barbie things that my aunts had used. She would play Barbies with us.

She let me play both her piano and electric organ.

We would play dominoes with her and grandpa.

At the cottage, she had one of the floatie chairs and would let us sit in her lap in the water.

She had all kinds of gaudy decorations around her house that I loved looking at!

As we got older, my sister and I were invited special to her house to help her decorate her Christmas tree.

I thought she was a good cook and enjoyed watching her in the kitchen. I know now that she wasn't that great of a cook! :) Frying bacon and then making eggs and potatoes in the fat. . . well. . . I wouldn't eat that today. We (and especially Grandpa) loved it.

She and grandpa would take my sister Tricia and I to the "big mall" in Grand Rapids during Christmas. She would give us each some money and we got to go shopping with her. What a treat for us!

She kept powerhouse candy bars in the freezer in her garage. We would sneak them.

She loved us and had this way of biting her bottom lip while winking at us--especially when she was telling us a secret or teasing us. I enjoyed seeing this look several times on Tuesday night when I said good-bye to her.

There are many more. I hope that you too had a wonderful relationship with your grandparents.

Back to work

I. . . Shanda Sprick. . . . will begin work on Monday morning. It is true. I'm going back to work for four weeks. I haven't been on a payroll for over four years now. I'm feeling great, and I'm very excited about my new job.

I'm going to be the co-host on the morning show of the local Christian radio station: WJQ 99! Yup, I'm a DJ. I've always been interested in doing this and even looking into taking classes while I was in Chicago. Well, now I get to live the dream. I'll be on from 6:00-9:00 in the mornings. For those of you living outside of the area, you can stream it and enjoy!

http://www.jq99.com/

Plus, as a radio DJ it doesn't even matter that my latest dye job on my hair went a little sour. :)

Thanksgiving

We had a great Thanksgiving! Let me tell you why:

1. God is so very faithful. My family has been going through so much, and although dad was not with us at Thanksgiving and we continue to pray that he decides to get the help he so desperately needs, we still can see God in our lives. Through all of this, God has decided to show us His hand time and again. It is my favorite thing to know that God has His grip on my hand and life. . . that even though things are tough, even though I don't understand, even though I want my kids to have their Gramps back. . . God has it and He is never late!

2. We had Thanksgiving at my house! I love having people over. This was our first Thanksgiving at our house and Gary and I wanted to make things special. So. . . . we painted the kitchen, I created a painting which has my grandfather's prayer written on it, we got new curtains, new tablecloth, new table runner, my mom cleaned our house (while I painted!). . . . It was so much fun. I feel like I'm living in a new place. What great Christmas gifts to get at Thanksgiving!

3. New Thanksgiving festivities! Since we were at a new house, we decided to try something new and it was so much fun! We had appetizers right after church, then took a break. Around 3:30, all us girls took over the kitchen and whipped up quite the meal! It tasted great, but the best part is that we had so much fun! The guys cleaned up and we really enjoyed each other for the whole day!

4.The best part is when we went around the table and shared the things that we were thankful for. God is blessing blessing blessing! I love hearing how God is working in the lives of my siblings and my mom. . . I also love hearing what Gary and my kids are thankful for. God is certainly good.

I pray that you too were blessed. . . not only yesterday. . . but that you continue to see God's good blessings in your lives every day!

Celebrating!

Pictures for our celebratory supper at the Chinese buffet in honor of Simon's Gotcha Day!

Enjoying all the choices from the buffet. Buffets mean that everyone can find something that they like (and kids get their food quickly). :)

Noel gives off her "picture smile".

Simon is exicted to be in our family. Either that or he is excited about ice cream.

Gary imitating Shanda. :)

Garrison decided to save some of his ice cream for later.

Shanda imitating Gary imitating Shanda. :)

Plus: I'm beyond thilled with the three kids God has given to me.

Final Home Study

It is over! (Well, almost over)

We still need to send in some pictures and some money, but our adoption process is complete. We had our final home study last night. It went really well. Simon's adjustment and attachment have been wonderful!

Having regular home studies has been a thought provoking process for me. When we began, Gary and I had to analyse ourselves very closely. After many hours of talking with our social worker, we received a document stating who we were, what made us tick, what our values were, etc. It was very interesting to read. . . do I really behave like that? Do we really struggle with that? Did our childhoods affect us this way?

Last night I was able to see our year with Simon through different eyes. Renee asked us many questions about him, who he is, how he responds. They are many of the same questions that she asked us almost a year ago. During her first visit with us after Simon was home, I remember her telling us that it was going to get so much better. "How could this get better?" I thought. This is going great, I love this guy. Well, things have gotten better. There has been growth from all of us in regards to bonding and behavior. Our family is truly a family.

The best part of the evening came at the end. The kids had been put into bed and we were finishing up. She told Gary and I that we really operated as a team, that it was truly a gift what we had. Gary and I reflected on that after she had left. We praise God that we are a team. Yup, there are issues. Yup we don't always take care of each other like we should.

Yup, I love him tons, and love being with him, and love laughing with him, and love that he doesn't mind when I wake him in the middle of the night when I have a bad dream, and love cooking something for him that he really likes, and love looking across the dining room table at him, and love it that he'll get up at 2:00 in the morning to paint the kitchen, and love taking him on a surprise date tonight and and and and and. . . .

It has been a great and interesting year. It'll get even wilder in May! :)

Results

We had such a great appointment with Simon's surgeon. Dr. Robertson is so very kind. He assessed that the lump (which is a tumor) on Simon's side was the same kind of thing that he already has on his back, pelvis, and leg. It may continue to change, it may go away, it may stay. It isn't anything to be concerned about. He urged us not to have it removed. You don't have to do much urging to get us to say we don't want Simon to have surgery. :) Someday if Simon does need surgery for his large tumor, they can look at removing it. For now, more may crop up. We never know where or why they will show up. Simon is kinda a mystery to his doctors. The whole office is enamored with Simon which Gary and I find funny.

On the way to the appointment, I was thanking God that He knows what is going on in Simon's body. He knows every part of this tumor. He knows how Simon's body is functioning with the tumor inside of him. He knows Simon's future. I'm thankful that God has given us great doctors, but I'm also thankful that Simon ultimately rests in the hands of the great physician.

We'll keep you posted on the status of "Lumpy" our son as new things come up.

A year goes fast. . .

Hi friends

One year ago, so many of you were praying for us, and praying for Simon. Praying that his adjustment into our family would go well, that we would learn to love each other, to communicate with each other, to grow in God.

Well, all of our prayers have been answered in bigger ways than we ever imagined! Simon is a delight. He is a great fit into our family. His English is so great! He loves his siblings. He loves both Gary and I. I love it that every morning he runs to find me and hangs on to my leg while I say good morning and tell him that I love him. He loves to hug and kiss us. He loves to wrestle. He loves to do puzzles. He loves to rhyme (something that often drives us CRAZY!), he loves to argue with his siblings, he loves to sing, he is a wonderful runner, he doesn't love school. . . unless he gets to play with toys, he loves veggies but not cheese, when he doesn't like a decision we've made he scowls at us, his feet haven't grown since we met him, he has had numerous hair styles, he loves cars. . . he is our Simon!

We are going out for Chinese tonight to celebrate. It won't be as good as what we had in China, but it will be a reminder to us of Simon's heritage. God is so very good!

November 5, 2008

As I sit in my comfy chair this morning listening to the sounds of my children waking up. . . I have tears streaming down my cheeks.

One year ago I was in a car headed for the airport with Gary. We were leaving to go to China and get Simon. We were so excited and so hopeful. Yet, just moments before, I had walked into my children's rooms and kissed them good-bye. . . wondering in some way if they would remember me when I returned. . . wondering if I might not return. . . wishing there was some other way to get Simon rather than leaving my kids for two weeks. It was one of the hardest things I'd have to do. Silly perhaps, but oh how I love them so very much.

This morning when they get up, they'll get extra hugs and kisses from this mama. I get to spend the whole day with them and I'm pretty excited about it. Hopefully the next time I leave them for two weeks I'll be dropping them off at college.

Lump

Simon has a lump: a new lump. It is under his right arm on his ribcage.

We discovered it during bath time about five weeks ago. We called the doctor, we went in to get it checked out, an ultra sound was ordered and we received the news.

"We don't know what it is."

What kind of news is that?

The results were sent to a specialist and we waited. I called. We waited. I called. We waited. The lump changed. It became smaller and harder. We waited. We decided to sent the results to another doctor to see, plus. . . the best doctor isn't covered by our insurance so maybe it was a good thing that we hadn't had any results yet. It is hard for me to get concerned because Simon is running around and being Simon!

Yesterday we received a phone call. Our doctor's office apologized. They hadn't sent the information. What?!? We now have an appointment for next week. We are going to go and see the best doctor because Tammie has taken our case and it going to be an advocate for us. She will "work" (love that!) with our insurance company to get the appointments paid for.

I love God. I love it how He makes it happen. Now we get to see the best. They want to do a full physical work-up on Simon. I really believe that we are going to find our more answers. This is fantastic! Bless God.

Russ'

We are going to eat at Russ' tonight. There are several reasons for this.

1. We are getting our family picture taken downtown at 5:30. I'd rather focus on getting little people ready as opposed to getting food ready. It'll be a special treat.

2. I'm having trouble cooking. I'm so sorry family! I can't stand the smell of anything savory. I can make mac-n-cheese, egg salad, and I'm really good at cereal. Going out helps my family to beef up on their food intake considering I'm providing pretty miserable meals lately.

3. I love Russ'. It isn't the food that's the best, it's the memories. I get excited every time we get to go. Gary shakes his head and falls more in love with his wife for being so very goofy. My kids don't have a clue, but they will.

4. We have a coupon.

Do you have a restaurant that you go to for the memories? Love it when I get to enjoy more than just the company and the food.

Follow up to yesterday

Well. . . .

Dad didn't show up to the meeting. He called Pastor Tom before the meeting and after a 45 minute conversation in which he was sad, then defiant and angry. . . he said he would not meet at all. He is accusing Pastor Tom and of course my mom of all kinds of ridiculous things. He has even called a man whom he believes mom is having an affair with in order to confront him. It is all so sad, ridiculous and at times silly. We have been warned to be very careful. We know dad has anger problems: he has been abusing my mom. Pastor Tom says he has never seen someone more belligerent and manipulative than dad. Who knows if he could snap at us at some point. We'll be careful.

Dad is very very sick. He is working so hard to control his world, but addiction controls him. Addicts can hold it together for awhile and dad has been holding it together. . . but after awhile. . . the addiction takes over again. It has to. It controls him.

Thankfully, God is bigger than dad. God is bigger than addiction. God can quiet the storm with a word. He is always on-time. (That means He is never late.) So, we continue to pray. We continue to love dad from afar. We continue to cling to God and He has given us peace and each other.

Thanks for supporting us, for reading this, for learning more about addiction, and mostly for asking God to help and completely heal my dad.

My dad

Hi all

Here is an update on what is going on with my dad.

He is loved by us. All the time.

He has admitting to his siblings that he needs help.

He flew to Lynden, WA and interrupted my mom's vacation. Not only was this a silly idea, it was illegal. He can be thankful that my mom has such hope that she didn't call the police and have him arrested.

He is meeting today at 3:30 with Pastor Tom. Pastor Tom is our addiction counselor and the man who wrote up the contract that we presented to dad at our intervention. I know that my God is in the miracle business, He is the great physician, He can change hearts with one whisper, He is the comforter to the hurting. He has the power to soften dad's heart and have dad sign the contract. Dad wants to write his own treatment plan. We are against this. He may chart his own course, but then he still won't have contact with the family. He has done this many times and every time, the addict in him won the battle. Our contract removes any holes that Dan the addict could find.

So, would you please. . . if you read this today (10-28) please pray for my dad at 3:30? You can even pray for him before and after! Please, let's all go before God's throne and ask over and over for Him to bring dad to complete surrender and then to completely restore him. God can do it!

Beans and Steak

A friend of mine sent me a book for my birthday. It is called "Reckless Faith". I love it. I'm trying to limit myself to reading one chapter at a time, but what I'd like to do it sit for an afternoon (following my nap of course) and read the entire thing. Instead, I'm trying to absorb all of the great stuff that God has for me. No sense in stuffing myself so full that I don't enjoy the last morsels. Thanksgiving anyone? Here is a quote from the last sentence of chapter three.

"How often did I settle for beans, when, if I had only trusted Him, I might have been given a steak?"

I often try to work with God, to help, to look for all the ways "out" should His answer be "no". I find myself doing that a lot with my dad. Rather than ask for a steak, (complete restoration of him, his mind, and my family) I tend to think smaller. . . . I think that is normal, but not that of a reckless faith. This morning I asked God in what other areas of my life was I settling for beans?

Know what else God did for me today?

1. For the first time in WEEKS, I wasn't up in the middle of the night for a couple of hours!

2. I woke up naturally at 6:30 in time to enjoy my morning devotions with God!

3. I'm getting a free and beautiful piano in just thirty minutes!

4. I haven't vomited this morning!

Look at all these gifts! Hope that you ask for and enjoy steak today.

Two more weeks I hope

Yup, I hope that in two more weeks I'll be feeling better. I've been so tired lately, napping every day with my kids. I'm a little queasy too. I'm pretty thankful about it because in just 29 more weeks, I'll hopefully be holding my precious precious new baby.

It's true! Gary and I are expecting our fourth child. Isn't God spectacular? Yes, I know that I'll be busy. Yes, I know that I already have three children. Yes, I even know that I'm a little crazy. I also know that I love being a mom, I'm so thankful that God decided to bless us again in this way, and I look forward to meeting this new person.

The Holy Spirit

WE'VE! (clap clap) GOT! (clap clap) SPIRIT! (clap clap) S-P-I-R-I-T SPIRIT!

The Holy Spirit is working in my little Garrison's heart and he is listening, perhaps without even realizing it.

Today is a work day. I'm in grubby clothes (I usually am) and I'm trying to get some chores done. It isn't my favorite day, but hey. . . it needs to be done. Plus, Fall Family Festival is Saturday night. We are having a par-tay and things need to be spick and span. . . at least span.

Anyway, Simon and Noel were downstairs playing while Garrison had come upstairs to give me some important news: he found some words that rhymed. That is big news alright. After we had chatted a bit, I continued loading the dishwasher and he went back downstairs. . .except that he didn't go back downstairs. I didn't see him stop and sit on the top step. I did hear him though.

"Dear Jesus. Thank you for everyone downstairs. We bless you Jesus. Amen." My brain was overwhelmed and my eyes got a little misty. Then I heard this:

"Mommy, I just prayed to Jesus!"

"Yes, I heard you. I think that is wonderful. We can pray to Jesus anytime, not just at meals or before bed, but anytime we want."

"Hey mommy, do you wanna come pray with me?"

"Of course I do." I drop everything to pray with my son right!?!

So, I join him at the top of the stairs and sit down. He folds his hands and bends over and prays again, this time thanking God for family members by name as well as a few other wonderful thanks to God. I'll never forget the extra-ordinary moment in the midst of a very ordinary day.

Lord, may I be moved as well to pray whenever and wherever during the day!

Oh so Thankful!

Last night I was cuddling on the couch with Gary, as is our custom. He offered to get up around 9:00 and turn on my electric blanket for me. He is a gem.

Around 9:30 I climbed into bed and enjoyed the WARMTH of my bed. I love warm. I love being comfy and cozy. I have a hard time heating up my space in bed on my own (before we got an electric blanket, Gary would lay on my side for awhile so that it would be warm!). Once again, I gave thanks to God for letting me be born during a time of electric blankets. I'm also so thankful that God allowed me to be born so that I would not have to:

haul wood

haul water

wash my clothes in a creek

travel by buggy

endure pain in labor (I am a fan of the epidural)

entertain my kids in a one room building, or tee-pee, or wagon

live in a cave

really grow or kill everything that I ate

care for and bury the dead

I am thankful that I can:

turn up the heat or the a/c

make a quick trip to the store

enjoy the internet

use a dishwasher

have waterproof boots

sleep in such a comfy bed

have no leaks in my roof

go to the dentist and keep all my teeth

contact my friends in a heartbeat

and tons more!

Seriously, I often thank God for choosing Shanda for this moment, for this time period. I admire those who went before me, who endured chapped hands and lips all winter, who constantly tended the fire, who live through so much cold, who would hear maybe once a year from relatives, who sent their men off to war knowing they may never hear another thing from them or about them. . . .

My bed will be warm again tonight. Thanks ABBA.

Absent

Hi

Sorry I've been a bit absent, both in my presence on this blog, activities with friends, and of my mind. It has been a month. Allow me to share a small portion.

I adore my family. If you don't get that while reading this blog, then you aren't really reading this blog. I love my folks and siblings. We get together often and have such a wonderful time together.

My dad has had a reoccuring problem over the past years. He is addicted to prescription medication. He has been to rehab numerous times. We have been so proud of him. We have stood by him. We have enabled him in a variety of ways. We have always loved him. He was an amazing father growing up. When he is well, he is an amazing Gramps to my kids. I can't even describe how much my kids love him, and how my heart is so happy when I see him teaching my kids how to feed baby birds, how to make boats out of sticks, how to enjoy God's creation. . . .

Recently, things have gotten bad. Dad's anger, combined with his misuse of medication, created an unsafe environment in the house for my mom. My brother and his wife with the complete blessing of the rest of the siblings, removed mom from the house for her safety. We are so afraid of what would have happened had she stayed. She did not leave my dad, we removed her. My mom is doing well. She is getting stronger every day. She is spending so much time with the Lord and enjoying His presence. She is safe.

My dad is at the house. We did have one night of contact with him. We wrote letters and with assistance from a pastor and addiction counselor, we told him what we saw and thought. We asked that he please go and get help so that we can get our dad back. Dad refused. Since that meeting, we are no longer in touch with dad. We made that clear in the meeting and need to stand by our word. He is choosing medication over his family. Let's be very clear.

Friends and family are supportive and critical of us Koemans. They tend to want to take sides. There is only one side. We are all on dad's side. We love him. We want him to get better. Despite his lying about my mom. Despite his assulting my brother and being arrested. Despite his anger towards us. . . we love him. We want him back and want him to get well. I want MY dad back, not this man hopped up on medication. If he would say the magic words "I need help" we would all get speeding tickets on our way to the house to hug him.

Will you please pray for our family? Will you pray for my dad? He is an amazing man. I am who I am today in part because of him. My creativity. My love for the outdoors. My desire to play rather than work. . . all that comes from dad. Our hearts desire is not divorce, it is that God's glory will be seen through healing of my dad and of my parent's marriage. Will you also pray for my mom? God has been very faithful to her and to us. We feel such peace.

Will you also forgive me for a bit longer: Please forgive me for not returning your phone call. Please forgive me for not keeping up on the blog. Please forgive me for being a little absent minded. I'm not myself and I know that. Please also understand that I will NOT respond in anger. I will NOT tear down my dad's reputation. I will NOT lie about him or for him anymore. Addiction is such an ugly thing. There is so much lying, so much savvy, so much sneakiness. . . well. . . we aren't keeping secrets anymore. I also won't give you all the "juicy details". God knows. Truth will rise.

Like my mom says: right now, our lives are fractured into many different pieces. God is who He says He is. He will put the pieces back together into a new and beautiful picture. It may take months or years, but we look forward to seeing His hand.

Sunday!

I love Sundays! I love going to church for so many reasons. I get excited to hear the Word, I get excited to see friends, I get excited for a relaxing morning with the family, I get excited because my kids like going. . . oh, it is such a great morning! Every Sunday God gives me at least one gold nugget, often more. I am rich.

Wanna know how else I am rich? I have these great kids! A couple of days ago, I logged on to the computer and found this as the background. Gary had changed it to this picture. I laughed out loud! Garrison has my butt (round) and Simon has Gary's butt (flat). Whenever I'm on the computer now, I always smile when I see this picture (I also shake my head a little!), both because of my kids and my husband. Plus, I get to remember a wonderful Sunday afternoon when we hiked in the dunes and swam in Lake Michigan. God is good. Hope that you enjoy your Sunday!

The Cottage

Hi

Sorry it has been awhile: It has been a bit chaotic around here. I'll take time to explain in more detail at a later time. Just know that we are busy, happy, and walking with God every day. School has begun. I adore my hubby and kids. I am so blessed to be at the church that I am.

We went as a family to Fremont Lake. All of the pictures are on our other computer, but I'll share some that I have saved here. It was a remarkable week, certainly our favorite vacation of the year. Enjoy!

The boys never seemed to stay in one spot in their bed.

Love swimming with my guys!

Simon loved being in the water.

Noel did as well.

Uncle Koe let Garrison man the boat for awhile.

Can you believe the boy are tubing?!?

Uncle Ry caught fish and put them in the well so the kids could play with them. Poor fish.

Aunt Kate gave Noel her first manicure.

Off on an adventure!

My emotional week-end

I had the amazing opportunity to attend a conference by Beth Moore this week-end. Thank you Lord for blessing me in this way. I came back and told Gary that I felt like my heart had been massaged and stretched. There is so much for me to think about. I have so much farther to go in my journey with the Lord, and I'm so thankful that He is sticking with me. I'm changed again because of this week-end.

Before our conference, we met up with a group of ladies. I was there first, as is my custom, and I had a great conversation with my friend Tricia. She told me about some job issues/opportunities in her life. She made a comment that "God told me that. . ." I love that. I love the God talks to His own. I asked Gary later that night, how does God talk to you? I often feel the peace of God, I often feel like God uses others to talk with me, I hear God through His word. . . but I can't say I've heard God audibly. Perhaps you have. Maybe I'm not listening, or perhaps He is just choosing to communicate with me in other ways. I'll have to think and pray about that one.

Sunday's sermon was. . . wow. I continue to learn and grow in our church. I had several conversations with family members and friends about what we heard and learned. God really encouraged me. I also want to go and re-teach the story of Egypt to my Old Testament students. I'll gladly be a stone for God!

We had a family crisis of sorts this week-end in regards to my dad's addiction to prescription medication. My mom, siblings and my family are all safe and doing remarkably well. We are eager to see what God is going to do in our family. Needless to say, it has been rather emotional as well.

I've spent my week-end praying, thinking, and processing. I'm so very thankful that I'm a child of God, that I have no idea what the future holds, but I know who holds the future. How can others even function without the hand of the God? Oh, I'd be so very lost.

Today I'm tired, content, and heavier (I hate emotional eating!). I'm also sitting on the couch with the computer on my lap and a Diet Mountain Dew beside me during naptime. There are lots of household chores calling out to me, but for this afternoon, I'm going to ignore the call of the laundry, and bathroom, and carpets, and mudroom, and and and. . . . just be.

Motorcycle mama

After

Before

Hi.

My name is Shanda and I'm becoming a motorcycle mama. Gary and I used to ride on his bike a lot when we were dating. I was quite nervous about it, but did enjoy it. Plus, it gave me a great excuse to hang on to my guy.

The bike was stored for a few years. With the arrival of three kids, time for rides has been limited. This spring, the insurance went back on the bike. We needed another vehicle so that Gary can go early to church without my packing up all the kids. He helps out with the sound.

A few weeks ago we went on a double date. We took the motorcycle and I loved it. I know, I know. It is dangerous. I also want you to know that I trust my guy. I've been with him enough to see how he reacts in traffic and he is a great driver: very aware and very protective of me. I like that feeling.

So now, I'm getting a new motorcycle helmet! The one I'm wearing at the moment is the same on that my dad gave to me in high school when I started riding a moped. It has red sparkles, and although it is very stylish, it is in no way protective. My new black helmet with the orange stripe is on its way baby!

We went out last night again. A friend from church decided we needed a date, so she watched the kids and we reluctantly (yeah right) went out on the bike.

I look forward to many more: rides on the bike and dates with my guy.

P.S. This was written several weeks ago, but I wanted to wait for my new helmet to arrive. Alas, finally came yesterday, so I'm ready to rock-n-roll!

Gary's Birthday

Today is my honey's birthday.

Not only do I love him, I like him so much. He is indeed my best friend.

Bless God.

9 Months Old!

Our newborn is nine months old. Hard to believe how fast time flies? Do you remember this?

It was nine months ago today that Simon was officially declared to be ours. We actually received him nine months ago yesterday, but we had a 24 hour waiting period in which we could change our minds. Yeah right.

Let me tell you about all the things that our newest member is doing these days. We are so proud!

He is such a helper. He is the first of our kids to clear his spot, put away his toys, get our shoes for us when it is time to go. . . sometimes he helps too much!

He took swimming lessons for the first time and really enjoyed the water, just as long as he didn't have to go under!

The boy loves to be tickled! He laughs and laughs and laughs. I can't stop laughing when I hear it. He continues to ask for more and we need to stop so that he can breathe.

He is such a great fit for our family. His personality is much more laid back than Garrison and Noel, but he is standing up for himself more and more. We love it! I was secretly pleased when he hit Garrison for the first time. He is an administrator though. He loves to tell others what and how to do things. This can be amusing, or maybe not. :)

He does the potty dance. He doesn't like to break from life to go to the bathroom, but he does let us know he has to go by doing this sweet little dance. Rather than wait (otherwise it gets to the point of him crying!) we ask him to go. "Why?" "You tell me Simon." "I was dancing."

He takes a long time to get up in the morning, but when he finally arises, he runs out of the room and comes and finds either his mom and dad, ready for a big hug and kiss. He is a cuddler and gives great kisses. There will be some lucky lady someday, if she can get his butt out of bed on time!

When we go to one of his many doctor's appointments, he gets very nervous. He recently received five shots in one visit, so of course, this is at the forefront of his mind. We need to patiently answer his "Am I going to get shots?" questions every time he asks. The doctor, the nurses, the receptionist, the stranger on the stairs. . . they all need to answer it as well.

He is adjusting quite well to "American" food. His favorites are fruits and veggies. We have to limit the amount that he can have, otherwise he gets a little. . . gassy. There are very few things that he doesn't like: cheese and yogurt to name a couple. Dairy isn't his favorite.

Books books books. He doesn't know his letters yet, but boy does he love to have books read to him. He is constantly making comments about each page and asking questions.

He always wants to know all the details, wants to get a closer look, asks "why", and wants to try it by himself. He is a very curious boy.

He is getting taller in two ways. First, though he hasn't gained but one pound, he has grown about three inches. The other way in which he is taller is that he likes to announce it, as in "When I get taller I will get to chew gum." Yup. He is also planning on driving a truck, sleeping in the top bunk, getting the juice himself, going off the diving board, driving a dune buggy and a host of other things. It is his "go-to" phrase. He uses "When I am taller. . . " to either allow himself a privilege that he wants to do now but can't (ride a bike) or to excuse himself from doing something that he doesn't want to do (help set the table). I love it.

Sing sing sing. I could listen to him sing for a long time. When he came to us, he often sang, but sadly, we couldn't join in. His Chinese is gone now (oh how this is hard for me!), but his tune is the same, just with different words. When he sings his songs to Jesus. . . oh how my heart just wants to burst. He seems to really like music and do well. A few months ago, all the kids were called up to the front in church to sing a song. They clapped at various times during the song. One of our musicians came and found me after the service to tell me that Simon kept perfect time. We will certainly encourage him if this is his gift. He must take after me.

I could go on and on, but let me say that this is one very special boy. I bless God that he has been with us for nine months already. I look forward to many more "nine months" with him. Yup, there are challenges, both because he is adopted and because he is THREE. (Don't get me started!) We love our son and are so thankful that his birth parents decided to spare his life. I've given a couple of presentations in the past couple of months about our adoption experience. Each time I'm more amazed at how God worked in our lives. . . and in His. Thanks for your continued walk with us on this path.

Help me!

I thought I'd jazz up the page, you know, add something interesting, a picture perhaps, one that will get your attention, make you smil. . . .yup I did all of that.

I wanted to put this picture at the top. IT IS VERY BIG. Can't figure out how to make it smaller. Can't go over it. Can't go under it. Can't go through it. Gotta leave it until Gary gets his hands on it and can help me. :)

Not my type?

Last night I went on a great date with my honey for his birthday.

We went to an ourdoor rock/punk/very-loud-not-my-type-of-music concert. Let me tell you something: I love my guy!

Because I love my guy, I dug through some old bins of HIS clothes. Combat boots, choker with spikes that HE made, Five Iron Frenzy t-shirt, leather jacket. . . .he smiled. He thought it was hilarious. He even donned combat boots for the occasion.

I don't like being stared at--last night I was stared at. :) We even went to the fabric store like this. The amish woman wouldn't look at us. I met someone for the first time who had "heard all about you". She said to me, "I've seen pictures of you. I guess I thought you were more reserved."

We had an amazing time together sharing supper, sitting on the lawn listening to music, sitting on the shore of a lake talking, jumping to the music, riding the bike, and just being together.

resting

Why is it that when I finally get off my tookus (biscuits, cheeks, etc) and clean the bathroom, the other bathroom, do the dishes and fold some laundry, I just want to sit! :) Somehow, I think I need to just vedge. I've been vedging for the past hour! That is so not very good. I have more to do! There is more in the house that is dirty! Yet, here I sit. :) I'll let you know how the kitchen cleans itself.

Confessions

I turned on my electric blanket last night. I must confess that I've done it several nights this summer. It doesn't stay on all night, I just want to be warm when I fall asleep and I have a hard time warming up.

Sometimes I make a little extra lunch for my kids knowing they won't eat it all and I then I can have just a taste.

I always eat one grape from the bag at the grocery store before I buy it. I've gotten burned by bad grapes too many times.

I don't know how to upload photos from my camera to the computer.

I still don't know Gary's social security number by heart. He knows mine.

When my sister and I picked blueberries as our summer job (it lasted two days), we would leave the place where we were supposed to pick and would go to the bushes with the bigger berries.

I like watching "The Nanny".

Good news for post 100

Yes, it is post number 100 and you get to read it! I know, you are excited.

Great news: We had two doctor's appointments this morning and Simon and his tumor are looking fine. Simon of course charmed every nurse. Yup, I think he is very cute too. The tumor doesn't appear to be growing and right now, there is no reason to operate. We'll be having fewer appointments now and will be monitoring the situation. There is also a chance that the tumor might not be as large as what it appears to be: part of it is made up of fat. That would be wonderful and welcome news. His plastic surgeon suggested liposuction. Never thought I'd hear that uttered in regards to my child. We'll see what the years bring.


For now, we just watch and alert the docs if we see changes. There is a chance (although a small one) that he may never need surgery. Wouldn't that just be so very cool?



Thanks for walking this path with us. We really appreciate your prayers and concerns. The day is fast approaching when he will be aware that he looks different. There were stares and some comments at swimming lessons last week. I can't protect him from them, I can only give him the confidence to be proud of his scars.


Now, if only the insurance company would pay for one of the appointments! sigh

So much!

Hi friends

So much to update you on! I'll list what I can. CRAZY!

1. Noel is potty trained. Yup, you read that correctly. She still has accidents every now and then, but she is doing great! I wasn't ready, but she was so off we went. Hard to believe that I don't need to buy diapers. I've been doing that for four years.

2. We had such a great time camping. I'll update with photos later (after Gary downloads them!). I must admit, I was apprehensive about the whole thing. I love camping. I love my friends. I just wasn't sure I could be a mom to three ducks and camp at the same time. We loved it. My kids loved being in the woods and the river. We did o.k. at night. I didn't sleep the best, but it was so wonderful. I left feeling exhausted, but so very excited about the future of us and camping. I'm hoping to go again in the fall.

3. I was on the radio this morning! I'm very excited about my new job. I have so much to learn, but I think that I'm going to love it. I went to the studio this morning and after and hour, Troy put me on air. We had a blast. . . at least I had a blast. I'm going to do it again tomorrow morning.

4. Swimming lessons are done. I'm thankful that we took them and thankful that they are over. Every one of the kids improved, and Simon didn't have any other meltdowns. Garrison still cried over the diving board. Noel swam on her own. It was lovely.

5. My grandma isn't doing well. She fell in the bathroom and broke her femur. Pray for her: she is pretty discouraged. She is in a nursing home, but my mom is a big caregiver for her. Pray for mom too. It can be so challenging to care for an aging parent. Grandma is ready to go home to heaven, so we are praying that God will take her home soon. I love Grandma and share an anniversary with her.

Good things huh!! Summer is great and we are busy and happy. Family picture (the Koemans!) tonight. Noel and Garrison are watching Boz before nap time and Simon is trying to see if he can get two pencils in his nose at the same time. Gary is working late--we are thankful he has a job. I am happy.

Then sings my soul.

VBS began last night. Wonderful wonderful chaos. Kids, adults, songs, skits, stories, games, dinner. . . it is great.

My two favorite moments of the evening.

1. Noel was fussing in the nursery. It was late, it was past her bedtime, and she had been there for two hours. I'd be fussing too. I was called and I went in to get her. I took her to the sanctuary where they were jammin'! She was mesmerized. She watched, she clapped, she motioned, she sang, and she didn't want it to end. She wanted to "let my little light shine". I got teary eyed seeing the Holy Spirit work in the heart of my daughter. Oh if only she could know how this is the greatest thing I could ever want for her!

2. We arrive home and the kids are wired! I am too. :) Garrison goes into the living room and announces to Simon that he needed to light the fire and be Moses and he was going to be God and talk. They proceeded to act out the story. They got a few details wrong: Moses didn't light the fire. Moses was not a bad guy. I know, it can get confusing. Then, they asked to see it in the Bible Story Book that we read at dinnertime. I pulled out the book and they couldn't get enough! They have heard these stories, but they were getting it! We talked about Moses, the bush, the plagues (that are coming tonight) and more. Ah, God! I bless you that you have touched the hearts of my boys. The Holy Spirit is a work and is truly using VBS to stir hearts.

Bless God!

Swimming Lessons: the results

Hi again

Swimming lessons went much better today! Thank you Lord! Thank you for saying "Yes!"

Simon's teachers respected my request to not have him jump off the diving board. He had a great time and just ended early. Garrison cried about jumping off: but he can take it! :) He did jump off (o.k., he was guided by his teacher to the end where he was gently lowered into the water amist his crying) and there were mini-peppermint candies waiting in the cooler in the car. Gotta love it when Garrison goes off the board and immediately turns and shouts across the pool: "Can I have the candy now mom?" Love that boy.

Noel is opposed to going under as well. What is up with my kids?

Thanks to those who prayed. We aren't done yet. Three more days. Let's pray that they go like today.

Swimming Lessons

Hi friends

We are beginning week 2 of swimming lessons today. It is my big prayer request today.

Last Friday was not a good day for our Simon. He began to cry and went to "his place". We used to see it often, but rarely see it these days. It showed up on Friday. He begins to cry and then seems to leave himself. He won't look us in the eyes, he cries and screams, he can't move, listen, or even function. He did this before he had to go off the diving board. I couldn't get to him.

This morning I'm going to talk with the instructors about the diving board and ask that Simon not be required to jump off. For the record, he is gently lowered into the waiting arms of a lifeguard. He is wearing a life belt and has a noodle under his arms. He is in NO physical danger at all, though on Friday he was in great emotional danger.

I pray that he is calmed, that he doesn't go to this "emotional place" with the rest of the swimming lessons, and that Garrison isn't bothered that his brother doesn't have to off the diving board.

Lord, let it be.

I have a new job!

It has been a long time since I've been on a payroll from which the U.S. government deducts its taxes. My hours right now are long, but I love what I do. The pay is great: peanut butter kisses, squishy hugs, and running in the sprinklers. I love it.



But, God put in my lap an opportunity which I have wanted for a long time. I'm going to be a D.J. That's right, a disc jockey! It is something that I have dreamed about, wondering if this is something that I could do someday. While living in Chicago, I even looked at taking classes from Moody. I received an e-mail two weeks ago from my friend Troy who is the co-host of the local Christian radio station: WJQ 99. His partner is going on maternity leave in February and he wondered if I would be at all interested in joining him in the morning. Interested!?! Sign me up before you change your mind.

So friends, yours truly is going to be live, on-air. WJQ doesn't know what they've gotten themselves into. :)

Rich

I just found out that a former student died last night. He died in his sleep. He was perhaps 21? 22? That isn't supposed to happen to twenty year olds. Ninety: yes. Twenty: no.

Please allow me to share one of my great memories of my teaching career, one which involves Rich Small.

I was directing 12 Angry Jurors. My assistant director Cristin and I had encouraged Rich to audition, he never had before. He ended up impressing us so much that he was cast as the lead. His first time out! Pretty impressive. He is the juror who holds out on a guilty verdict and eventually changes every other jurors mind. In the midst of reviewing the testimony, Rich pulls out a knife, just like the one that was used in the murder, and he angrily hits it on the table so that it stays, the knife point stuck in the wood. On opening night, my kids are doing great. I'm sitting in the back of the house watching, Rich does his slam and blah blah blah. Then I notice that something isn't right. The dialogue is continuing, but my kids aren't all in their correct places. I hurry backstage and learn that Rich has cut himself on the knife. Everyone it still going. There is blood on the table, on others' clothes, on the set window, someone has knocked on the door of the set to summon the bailiff--they did exactly what they needed to do. It is determined by me that we need to get Rich off-stage. We kill the lights and I run with him to the bathroom while Cristin makes an announcement. There are two doctors in the house.

Rich has to go to the emergency room and I end up playing his part for the rest of the night.

I have showed that footage to every drama class since about what it means to stay in character, to keep on going, to make-do. Rich was a class act. He was in several more plays in high school and went on to act in college. He still had the scar on his finger and it would tingle now and then, a reminder of his time on stage.

See you in heaven Rich!

Get out of my house!

There is a problem in my house.

Snacks and leftovers.

Do you have this problem?

We had Noel's birthday party here last night and now, in my house, there are delicious snacks and great leftovers! I'm not good with either. I like them. I like leftovers even more than eating things the first time. Ugh! I work hard to keep unhealthy leftovers out of the house. I know my weaknesses. I won't ever work in a bakery. I love cake.

So now, sitting by me on the couch is a bag of tortilla chips. Not the baked ones. Not the cheap tasteless ones. The good ones. The perfectly salty, so crispy, so delicious ones. Meatballs, cheese, hummus, cakes, cupcakes, crackers, pig-in-the-blankets. . . they are all here.

Ugh. :)

God's Great Blessing

Noel turns two today! Happy Birthday! Thought I'd post some pictures celebrating her two years with us. Enjoy!

Happy Birthday Noel!

Sleeping in the hospital.

Chilling out.

Our happy three month old!

Guess what? I'm one!

Loving the pool. . . and life in general.

Eating her first birthday cake.

She is almost two, and loves to give her best smile.

What a cute bird!

Smile Noel!

Just let me get dirty!

Dear Heavenly Father

Wow!

You promise us that you are going to bless us, to give us your best for us. I never could have asked for a greater package than the one you gave to me two years ago.

I met Noel two years ago today.

You knew that I needed someone to make me smile every day.

You knew I needed someone who is as stubborn as I am.

You knew that I needed a little girl who could hang with her brothers without missing a beat.

You knew my heart and gave me my Noel.

You knew all these things, and yet you decided to give me more. A child who loves to smile, a child who loves water and mud, a child who eats almost anything, a child who tells me she loves me every night, a child who gets injured every week and doesn't seem to mind, a child who has decided to go on the potty even though her mother isn't ready yet, a child who came to us on the same day that our dog died, a child who prefers to jump across a room rather than walk, a child who is yours, yet you entrusted her to us.

We bless you Father for this, such a precious gift.

Thank you.

Amen.

God is Wow!

Hi friends.

Yup, it has been awhile, but we've been busy. We enjoyed Branson with Gary's folks, sister, nephew and niece this week. It was so much fun! For the first time, we went to see a show with the kids---Amazing Pets! Da-da-da!!! They enjoyed it so much, we went to another show---The Russian Circus! Da-da-da!!! They just adore their Grandpa Larry and Grandma Karen. We are so thankful this year especially that Grandpa Larry is walking on this earth. We almost lost him right before we went to China to get Simon. Thanks Lord for letting us keep him for awhile longer.

Now, I'm sitting in a hotel room in Rockford, IL. Gary is at a Sinissippi Park socializing with his high school classmates and I'm on nap patrol. I love watching my kids sleep. They needed it. :)

God touched my heart many times this past week, but I wanted to share two particular moments that meant to much to this mama, ones that made me cry.

1. Yesterday, I was sitting at the kitchen table of my best friend Karen (she is in St. Louis--a great place for a pit stop) and we were eating lunch. Simon was next to me and when I turned to look at him, he reached his hand up and touched my face. I leaned in and he said to me, "I love you." He has said it before, but never without prompting, never before on his own without my doing it first. Yes Simon, I love you too and I bless God that you love me.

2. This morning in the hotel room, Garrison opens the drawer by the bed and guess what is inside? A Bible! He announces to me that he needs to read the Bible. I'm all for that. He sits in the chair and looks for awhile. I'm putting on my swimsuit (always a great experience eh?!?) and he begins to "read". He thanks God for many things, all from his little heart. He is very serious and not at all showing off for his siblings or for us. While Simon and Noel ran around the room, Gary and I paused to hear the heart of our son. . . oh no, I'm teary again. Gary and I embraced afterwards and celebrated how God is living in Garrison's heart. Nothing means more to me as a mom.

Nothing.

We travel home tomorrow. It'll be our shortest drive (six hours?) of the week. Hopefully by tomorrow night we'll conclude our prayer in our driveway, saying "Amen" to the one we began in the same place just six days ago. So much has happened and God has been so good. Yeah!

Breakfast discussion

This morning, Garrison, Simon, and I had a discussion. It went something like this.

mom, mom, excuse me mom
yes
i have bones.
yup, you sure do.
do you have bones?
yes.
a lion has bones.
yes
and a tiger
yes
and a tractor.
nope, a tractor does not have bones.
a rock has bones.
nope, a rock doesn't have bones either.
gramps has bones?
yes, you got it.
noel has bones?
yes.
and a mouse?
yes.
excuse me, a table has bones?
no, a table does not.
a worm has bones?
no, i don't think so. a worm is all squiggly. i don't think there are bones in a worm.
mom, i know, daddy has bones.
yes, you are right.

add another ten minutes. i loved it.

Five years ago

Five years ago I stood before God, my family, and my friends and pledged my love to Gary Alan Sprick. He did the same. He also surprised me and washed my feet during our ceremony. He wanted to show me and everyone there how much he loved me, how he was going to try to be like Christ to me, and how he would take care of every part of me, even my stinky feet. :)

Five years ago my father-in-law announced to the congregation that we were both virgins. He wanted my students in the back to know that it can be done. He wanted them to know that saving yourself and giving yourself to God's best for you is such an honor. He was very proud of us.

Five years ago I had one of the best days of my life. I enjoyed every minute and made the most of every minute. I laughed and cried. Best of all, we worshipped our Lord. I still love our ceremony. We spent more time planning that than on any other event of the day. God was glorified that day and I pray He continues to be glorified in the way we keep our marriage.

Five years ago today I took a hayride. There were those who scoffed at us. . . a hayride? Why wouldn't you get a cool car, a limo. . . something without hay! It was fun. We celebrated, our wedding party which was all of our families and a couple of friends, but laughing, singing, and playing kazoos. It was a riot! We went to a pig roast.

Five years ago today I never would have dreamed about all the events that have happened since. Three kids, one miscarriage (possibly two), one adoption, job changes, finding a wonderful church, losing Gary's grandpa. . . .it is so very cool. The best part--God has been there every step leading us.

I'm going to a wedding tonight. I think it is fitting. As they say their vows, I plan to pledge again before the Lord to try and honor Gary as He wants me to. To be the best wife I can. To continue to grow and change in a way that honors Him. Who knows what the next five years will bring?

It's a day.

We are at a hotel in Romeoville, IL. Gary is here for work, and I'm here with the kids for some new adventures. Plan B happened today.

Plan A for today: wake up, breakfast in room, go to the zoo, naps on the way home, swim, dinner with friends, bedtime.

Plan B: wake up with Garrison crawling in our bed after he woke Noel up, making four trips to the breakfast room for everything we need, going outside to the van and realizing that it is cold. I didn't bring sweatshirts. Drive to Meijer. NO SWEATSHIRTS! Drive to the zoo. It begins to rain on the way. I ask the Lord to stop the rain when we get there and hold it off so that we can enjoy the zoo. We've been talking about it for so long! Garrison and Noel fall asleep. (wonder if it had anything to do with that early morning wake-up?) Still raining at the zoo. Turn around before paying $8.00 parking. Go back to the hotel. Picnic on the floor. Swimming. Nap. Pouring rain and very cold, so off to Kohl's for sweatshirts. NO SWEATSHIRTS! We get so wet going in and coming out. Target is next door: let's try it. Wet again. . I find one sweatshirt for me. . . sixteen dollars? I put it on and begin to warm up. My shivering kids are in the cart. NO SWEATSHIRTS for Noel. I find one sweatshirt for the boys. . . one long sleeve shirt actually. Blue for Simon, green for Garrison. I really don't like them all that much. I put them on. Fifteen dollars? I do not want to pay fifteen dollars for a child's sweatshirt! The boys are happy. We look for a hat for me. I can't even explain my hairdo. No hats. We have to go or we'll be late for dinner. The cashier scans our clothes while we are wearing them. I'll just hug Noel all night long to keep her warm. I reach for my wallet: gone. . . not gone. . . in my backpack where I put it for the zoo. They won't take a check without i.d. Everybody, off with the sweatshirts! We head out into the rain. White Fence Farm with friends for supper. It was lovely. I laugh and laugh. I'm warm again, Gary is in the hotel room with me, and I didn't spend a fortune on sweatshirts. Plus, as I'm praying before bed with the kids. . . I'm glad God sent the rain before we entered the zoo. He is so cool like that.

Home tomorrow. I like that too.

It's all in the eyes!

Love. Them.

Pictures!

The whole Koeman Clan at Simon's baptism.
Garrison loves his Maestra! (teacher)

Garrison's first trip to the dentist.

Simon loves his Grandpa Larry! I do too. He buys us ice cream.

Simon wasn't as sure about the whole dentist thing.

Three tired Spricks after the Memorial Day Parade!

I'm in love with this girl!

While daddy worked in Chicago, we played in the pool at the hotel!