I posted pictures of all of the Christmas Celebrations, just continue to scroll down the page. Also a video of the little girls wrestling with him...Too Cute.
Enjoy:)
Happy New Year!!!!
See you Next Year:)
God Bless
Jess
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Ladies Man
Here is a video of Grant and his girls wrestling. You might want to turn the volume down a bit, the girls love to squeal. Enjoy:)
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
More Christmas Parties
I bet you thought that our Christmas ended on Christmas day...Well, we celebrated Christmas well into the weekend. We started off on Friday at Matt's cousin Jennifer and Jeremy's house for the Gingerich Family Christmas. We ate Pizza, breadsticks, and a whole lot of other YUMMY foods. Thanks:) We spent the rest of the night chatting, playing cards, watching the little girls in the family play. This side of the family has all girls (grandkids). Jennifer has two girls with another one on the way, Greta and I have little girls, and well Jamie she is the going to be the odd one of the bunch with one little girl and she is expecting a BOY!!! The streak is over:)
Anyway, Jennifer's oldest daughter is 6 monts older than Grace and they love playing with each other...they play so well together, then her second daughter is about 1 1/2 older than Izabelle and she is very protective of Izzybelle (as she says it...Too Cute), she told her mom they needed to turn the fireplace off so that Izzybelle wouldn't get burnt, but if it gets cold, then you can just turn the heat up. Too Funny. Then Jamie's little girl is about a year younger than Grace and she loves Baby Izabelle, well she said the other day that she is not a baby anymore, which is kind of sad, Izabelle is growing up. They all play so good together. Izabelle and B (Greta's little girl) are the youngest, until the new additions come along, but they are already wanting to play with the BIG girls.
We took pictures, so I will have to try to post those with the rest of the Christmas Pictures.
Oh, in some of the pictures you will find Dr. Audrey making Matt feel better. She said that he was so sick she had to wear glasses and kept giving him shots...It was that bad. Oh, and he had a lot of potatoes in his ears, so she had to get those out too. He was such a good patient that he got a sucker...Well a pretend sucker.
Hopefully next time we all get together we will have a new addition to the Gingerich Group...Please say a preggers prayer for Jennifer, she is due in 3 weeks, for a smooth delivery & recovery...Can't wait to meet this little gal.
So, onto Saturday, we had my mom's side of the family's Christmas. It seemed to be a little smaller this year, but we enjoyed the company nonetheless. I love to see all my cousins and aunts, especially the ones that live out of town. My cousin Lori's little girls are a year apart from each other, so I am glad that they have someone to grow up with. Emma and Grace are like two peas in a pod...they love Pet Shop and running around and performing. We don't really get to see each other much since they live in Illnois and we are here in Indiana. We had a blast playing the Dance Off that my Aunt Mikki came up with...I hardly knew what each dance was, but was really impressed that my Aunt Loretta knew them...Way to Go, Girl:) Oh, and my mom was great at this game, too. Some Hot Mamas, for sure. After chatting and laughing for hours, we decided that we better head on home...
Sunday, Jake's brother Aaron and his wife Margaret were over from Madison, so we all went to church together and after church we went to eat at Ponderosa with the rest of the Gingerich Group. Of course Lindsey and Grace had to seat together, poor Memaw was booted out of her place...Sorry Memaw:( We enjoyed the meal and together time and it was off to house for naps.
The rest of Sunday was pretty much getting the girls' rooms cleaned and organized.
Now, it's back to work and the anticipation of the New Year approaching.
Until Next Time...
God Bless...
Jess
Anyway, Jennifer's oldest daughter is 6 monts older than Grace and they love playing with each other...they play so well together, then her second daughter is about 1 1/2 older than Izabelle and she is very protective of Izzybelle (as she says it...Too Cute), she told her mom they needed to turn the fireplace off so that Izzybelle wouldn't get burnt, but if it gets cold, then you can just turn the heat up. Too Funny. Then Jamie's little girl is about a year younger than Grace and she loves Baby Izabelle, well she said the other day that she is not a baby anymore, which is kind of sad, Izabelle is growing up. They all play so good together. Izabelle and B (Greta's little girl) are the youngest, until the new additions come along, but they are already wanting to play with the BIG girls.
We took pictures, so I will have to try to post those with the rest of the Christmas Pictures.
Oh, in some of the pictures you will find Dr. Audrey making Matt feel better. She said that he was so sick she had to wear glasses and kept giving him shots...It was that bad. Oh, and he had a lot of potatoes in his ears, so she had to get those out too. He was such a good patient that he got a sucker...Well a pretend sucker.
Hopefully next time we all get together we will have a new addition to the Gingerich Group...Please say a preggers prayer for Jennifer, she is due in 3 weeks, for a smooth delivery & recovery...Can't wait to meet this little gal.
So, onto Saturday, we had my mom's side of the family's Christmas. It seemed to be a little smaller this year, but we enjoyed the company nonetheless. I love to see all my cousins and aunts, especially the ones that live out of town. My cousin Lori's little girls are a year apart from each other, so I am glad that they have someone to grow up with. Emma and Grace are like two peas in a pod...they love Pet Shop and running around and performing. We don't really get to see each other much since they live in Illnois and we are here in Indiana. We had a blast playing the Dance Off that my Aunt Mikki came up with...I hardly knew what each dance was, but was really impressed that my Aunt Loretta knew them...Way to Go, Girl:) Oh, and my mom was great at this game, too. Some Hot Mamas, for sure. After chatting and laughing for hours, we decided that we better head on home...
Sunday, Jake's brother Aaron and his wife Margaret were over from Madison, so we all went to church together and after church we went to eat at Ponderosa with the rest of the Gingerich Group. Of course Lindsey and Grace had to seat together, poor Memaw was booted out of her place...Sorry Memaw:( We enjoyed the meal and together time and it was off to house for naps.
The rest of Sunday was pretty much getting the girls' rooms cleaned and organized.
Now, it's back to work and the anticipation of the New Year approaching.
Until Next Time...
God Bless...
Jess
Monday, December 29, 2008
Wrapping up Christmas
I am sure all of you had a wonderous time during Christmas, as I have. I worked half day on Christmas Eve and when we got home, me and Grace went to work cooking (Izabelle was trying to take a nap). We made cookies, cupcakes (all Christmas Shape), pie...which ended up not tasting good because I got the Sugar free filling instead, Yuck, and cheesy potatoes (Um). Although the some of the cookies got burnt, and the silicone cupcake pan did not do what I wanted it to do...We still had fun decorating them and eating the icing. So, when Matt got home I had him pack up the van, got the girls ready, and off we went to CELEBRATE Christmas with my family.
The Mattingly Christmas
We enjoyed a HUGE supper...each year it seems like we have to add more chairs, next year I think we are putting up a kid's table. I am so proud of my brother, he made a different kind of Cheesy Potatoes, so we decided, well I did to have a contest...I was a TIE!!! After supper, us girls cleaned up and the kids settled down to open stockings. Jason (my BIL) and I took a before and after picture of the tree. I will try to get pictures posted tomorrow. After the stockings came the PRESENTS. Grace was super excited that she got the boy that swam (Thanks Grant & Amanda), now her girl that swims won't be by herself when she swims. Izabelle wasn't really into opening presents, she kept wondering to see what others were doing. She got her first Cabbage Patch doll (Thanks Jason & Tina). My dad got Matt (and Jason) a Bench Saw and my mom got me and Tina boots, a shirt, and sweater.
After we thought that everything was opened, my mom and dad said "There is more"...What??? You would think that we would be expecting a "surprise" gift, because they do this every year. Well, upstairs the guys brought down 4 wooden toy chest for the 4 grandkids. A guy from my dad's work, made them and they are Beautiful, something that the kids will have for a very long time. Thank Mom & Dad.
Another surprise gift was to Amanda from Grant, and no it's not what you think...It was a 32" flat screen HD TV...She was so excited and surprised. He also gave her something else later that night that was super sweet...My brother the ROMANTIC:)
After the aftermath of opening presents and playing with our new things, we set off to the homestead, we had to get up bright and early to open what Santa brought.
Once the girls woke up, we let them open their gifts (from us, I mean Santa). Grace got her Cupcake Maker and Izabelle got a game that had a ball that looked and sounded like a cow, with milk jugs to knock down (Moo Cow bowling). Then it was off to Memaw and Papaw's.
The Gingerich Christmas
We ate breakfast (biscuits and gravy, cinnamon bites, YUMMY) with Matt's family, which we do each year. I think Matt and Rob were having a contest because they had about 2 or 3 plates full biscuits and gravy...I think Rob WON! They were both stuffed. After breakfast, we took some pictures on the girls before opening presents. Grace got a Leapster 2, which she hasn't put down since (well I guess she has since it ran out of batteries), Izabelle once again wasn't interested in opening presents, so Mommy opened them and she got a cute little doll that talked and you could move her arms and legs which matched Brynnlee's because those two girls love to want what the other has, so now they have matching dolls. They enjoyed everything that they received. Jake got Matt a Tool Box which Matt has wanted one FOREVER. Patty got me some cookingware, Cook book (I am seeing a pattern here, is this a hint?). And a tile that says "Dancing is the Language of the Soul"...I love it and some other surprises. The girls got their Memaw some AWESOME PJs, they are so soft. They got Papaw a nice sweater for him to wear.
After everything was opened, we loaded the truck up and headed home to get ready for lunch back at Memaw and Papaw's. We had lunch with them and visited with Matt's grandparents, Joe, Dave, and his sisters. Which is nice to be relaxed and be able to stay a little longer since we didn't have another place to go that afternoon. Which gave Grace a chance to play her Leapster and Izabelle and Brynnlee to play.
Once our bellies were full, we headed home for a MUCH needed nap.
The rest of the day into the evening we were busy opening packages to get the toys out for the girls to play with...Which is a PAIN??? Why do they have to have so many twisty thingys and tape on them. I think we have opened everything up, so on Sunday were putting everything up and organizing their rooms for them to fit.
Besides opening presents and visting everyone on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day we are just amazed how many people are in our lives that love us unconditionally...We are Thankful for them and Praise God for all that he has blessed us with.
I will try to get pictures up tomorrow of the Christmas Celebrations.
Until then...
God Bless...
P.S. Welcome to the World Pierce Andrew he arrived this past Friday by mommy Abby from The Yoder Clan. CONGRATS Abby, Kevin, and Big Sis Lillie and Big Brother Karson.
Another Welcome to the World is Ella Nyah she arrived this past Saturday by mommy Mandi from Loving Life. CONGRATS to Mandi, Andre, and Big Brother Gabe.
The Mattingly Christmas
We enjoyed a HUGE supper...each year it seems like we have to add more chairs, next year I think we are putting up a kid's table. I am so proud of my brother, he made a different kind of Cheesy Potatoes, so we decided, well I did to have a contest...I was a TIE!!! After supper, us girls cleaned up and the kids settled down to open stockings. Jason (my BIL) and I took a before and after picture of the tree. I will try to get pictures posted tomorrow. After the stockings came the PRESENTS. Grace was super excited that she got the boy that swam (Thanks Grant & Amanda), now her girl that swims won't be by herself when she swims. Izabelle wasn't really into opening presents, she kept wondering to see what others were doing. She got her first Cabbage Patch doll (Thanks Jason & Tina). My dad got Matt (and Jason) a Bench Saw and my mom got me and Tina boots, a shirt, and sweater.
After we thought that everything was opened, my mom and dad said "There is more"...What??? You would think that we would be expecting a "surprise" gift, because they do this every year. Well, upstairs the guys brought down 4 wooden toy chest for the 4 grandkids. A guy from my dad's work, made them and they are Beautiful, something that the kids will have for a very long time. Thank Mom & Dad.
Another surprise gift was to Amanda from Grant, and no it's not what you think...It was a 32" flat screen HD TV...She was so excited and surprised. He also gave her something else later that night that was super sweet...My brother the ROMANTIC:)
After the aftermath of opening presents and playing with our new things, we set off to the homestead, we had to get up bright and early to open what Santa brought.
Once the girls woke up, we let them open their gifts (from us, I mean Santa). Grace got her Cupcake Maker and Izabelle got a game that had a ball that looked and sounded like a cow, with milk jugs to knock down (Moo Cow bowling). Then it was off to Memaw and Papaw's.
The Gingerich Christmas
We ate breakfast (biscuits and gravy, cinnamon bites, YUMMY) with Matt's family, which we do each year. I think Matt and Rob were having a contest because they had about 2 or 3 plates full biscuits and gravy...I think Rob WON! They were both stuffed. After breakfast, we took some pictures on the girls before opening presents. Grace got a Leapster 2, which she hasn't put down since (well I guess she has since it ran out of batteries), Izabelle once again wasn't interested in opening presents, so Mommy opened them and she got a cute little doll that talked and you could move her arms and legs which matched Brynnlee's because those two girls love to want what the other has, so now they have matching dolls. They enjoyed everything that they received. Jake got Matt a Tool Box which Matt has wanted one FOREVER. Patty got me some cookingware, Cook book (I am seeing a pattern here, is this a hint?). And a tile that says "Dancing is the Language of the Soul"...I love it and some other surprises. The girls got their Memaw some AWESOME PJs, they are so soft. They got Papaw a nice sweater for him to wear.
After everything was opened, we loaded the truck up and headed home to get ready for lunch back at Memaw and Papaw's. We had lunch with them and visited with Matt's grandparents, Joe, Dave, and his sisters. Which is nice to be relaxed and be able to stay a little longer since we didn't have another place to go that afternoon. Which gave Grace a chance to play her Leapster and Izabelle and Brynnlee to play.
Once our bellies were full, we headed home for a MUCH needed nap.
The rest of the day into the evening we were busy opening packages to get the toys out for the girls to play with...Which is a PAIN??? Why do they have to have so many twisty thingys and tape on them. I think we have opened everything up, so on Sunday were putting everything up and organizing their rooms for them to fit.
Besides opening presents and visting everyone on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day we are just amazed how many people are in our lives that love us unconditionally...We are Thankful for them and Praise God for all that he has blessed us with.
I will try to get pictures up tomorrow of the Christmas Celebrations.
Until then...
God Bless...
P.S. Welcome to the World Pierce Andrew he arrived this past Friday by mommy Abby from The Yoder Clan. CONGRATS Abby, Kevin, and Big Sis Lillie and Big Brother Karson.
Another Welcome to the World is Ella Nyah she arrived this past Saturday by mommy Mandi from Loving Life. CONGRATS to Mandi, Andre, and Big Brother Gabe.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Merry Christmas
I am so EXCITED about Christmas this year...There is so many reasons for the EXCITEMENT. My brother is home. We spent last Christmas with him before he left, but it seems that the time stood still and Last Christmas is this Christmas. It is weird, but it seems like it's a second chance of some sort. Maybe it is my reality hitting me in the head...to wake up and enjoy what is IMPORTANT. Not dwell on what gift to give someone, but the gift of spending time with one another and treasuring that. And letting them know how you feel.
Another excitement is coming to really realize what Christmas is about. I have always known what Christmas stood for, but I don't think I really grasped with my whole heart. That this amazing Baby Jesus was brought into this world for us, for me. Wow!!! God knew what was going to happen to this Baby Jesus even before he was born and that this Baby was going to grow up and do great things. A great gift for us all.
I am so looking forward to Christmas Eve with my family...We go to my mom and dad's for supper, visiting, and opening presents. Matt's favorite part is watching the Christmas Story. I just like watching the kid's get excited and sitting around the tree o' so patiently, until Papaw passes out the presents. This year I am going to try some new things to enlighten the kids while they wait. Maybe it will start a new tradition. Who knows:0)
Then Christmas Morning we head to Memaw and Papaw's (Matt's parents) to enjoy breakfast, visiting and more presents for the kids. It is going to be so much fun watching how they react this year compared to last year. Especially the littlest ones.
I wish everyone a MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
God Bless...
Jess
Another excitement is coming to really realize what Christmas is about. I have always known what Christmas stood for, but I don't think I really grasped with my whole heart. That this amazing Baby Jesus was brought into this world for us, for me. Wow!!! God knew what was going to happen to this Baby Jesus even before he was born and that this Baby was going to grow up and do great things. A great gift for us all.
I am so looking forward to Christmas Eve with my family...We go to my mom and dad's for supper, visiting, and opening presents. Matt's favorite part is watching the Christmas Story. I just like watching the kid's get excited and sitting around the tree o' so patiently, until Papaw passes out the presents. This year I am going to try some new things to enlighten the kids while they wait. Maybe it will start a new tradition. Who knows:0)
Then Christmas Morning we head to Memaw and Papaw's (Matt's parents) to enjoy breakfast, visiting and more presents for the kids. It is going to be so much fun watching how they react this year compared to last year. Especially the littlest ones.
I wish everyone a MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
God Bless...
Jess
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Thoughtless Thursday
What is with today...I am DRAGGING. Most be close to the end of the week. Anyway, Thank you all for the wonderful comments from the previous post. I had a great time teaching these girls their Worship Dance. I definitely don't know what to do with my Wednesday/Friday afternoons...maybe I will take up baking.
Yesterday was my day off and with Preschool being cancelled me and the girls stayed home and then went to eat lunch with daddy. I was suppose to work that afternoon, when I dropped the girls off at the babysitters, I thought maybe I should call to make sure it was still on...And my luck he decided to cancel it. So, I went back to get the girls and we went home and took a nap.
Well, last night was Grace's Preschool Christmas Program. And the journey to get ready and be on time was a MESS!!!! Grace wanted to wear a red dress that was a little short and I wanted her to wear a different red dress, but she didn't like that because it had a turtle neck. Well, the DRAMA started...I asked her to try my red dress on, and fitted just right, well she didn't like it so she THREW the BIGGEST fit. So, off to her room she went. After a couple go arounds, I went to her closet and picked out the dress she wore to Christmas before. So, that made us both happy...Why didn't I think of that before the DRAMA.
Anyway, the program consisted of the 4-5 Preschool classes and the Kindergarten together. It was really good and cute. Grace has been practicing none stop...it was usually "Away in the Manger". The other night we decided that I could get my flute out and play some Christmas songs and of course I had "Away in the Manger" so she sang and I played. We are going to start our own group...we will be the next Judds. Just kidding. She did a great job last night. Unfortunately I didn't get all of her songs recorded because my silly memory card decided that it didn't have enough room to record everything...UGH!!!!
Anyway, after the program they had snacks and drinks, but of course Matt didn't want to stay because he needed to go to WalMart and he said he wasn't feeling good, but I think it was just his way of getting out of there.
After we got home from WalMart, I decided that it was time for Izabelle to get rid of her Babie (pacy)...She was looking for babie, but I told her it was at WalMart, so I took her to her room and she said "rockie" pointing to the rocking chair and she was just jabbering. It was nice to hear her just talk. After I layed her down she just cried and cried. So I gave in and gave her babie back. I know, I know...I will have to try it again another day. She is only down to 1, so once that is gone, then no more babie.
This ended up to be a long post, so much for Thoughless Thursday.
Enjoy the rest of the week and weekend.
God Bless...
Jess
Yesterday was my day off and with Preschool being cancelled me and the girls stayed home and then went to eat lunch with daddy. I was suppose to work that afternoon, when I dropped the girls off at the babysitters, I thought maybe I should call to make sure it was still on...And my luck he decided to cancel it. So, I went back to get the girls and we went home and took a nap.
Well, last night was Grace's Preschool Christmas Program. And the journey to get ready and be on time was a MESS!!!! Grace wanted to wear a red dress that was a little short and I wanted her to wear a different red dress, but she didn't like that because it had a turtle neck. Well, the DRAMA started...I asked her to try my red dress on, and fitted just right, well she didn't like it so she THREW the BIGGEST fit. So, off to her room she went. After a couple go arounds, I went to her closet and picked out the dress she wore to Christmas before. So, that made us both happy...Why didn't I think of that before the DRAMA.
Anyway, the program consisted of the 4-5 Preschool classes and the Kindergarten together. It was really good and cute. Grace has been practicing none stop...it was usually "Away in the Manger". The other night we decided that I could get my flute out and play some Christmas songs and of course I had "Away in the Manger" so she sang and I played. We are going to start our own group...we will be the next Judds. Just kidding. She did a great job last night. Unfortunately I didn't get all of her songs recorded because my silly memory card decided that it didn't have enough room to record everything...UGH!!!!
Anyway, after the program they had snacks and drinks, but of course Matt didn't want to stay because he needed to go to WalMart and he said he wasn't feeling good, but I think it was just his way of getting out of there.
After we got home from WalMart, I decided that it was time for Izabelle to get rid of her Babie (pacy)...She was looking for babie, but I told her it was at WalMart, so I took her to her room and she said "rockie" pointing to the rocking chair and she was just jabbering. It was nice to hear her just talk. After I layed her down she just cried and cried. So I gave in and gave her babie back. I know, I know...I will have to try it again another day. She is only down to 1, so once that is gone, then no more babie.
This ended up to be a long post, so much for Thoughless Thursday.
Enjoy the rest of the week and weekend.
God Bless...
Jess
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Worship Dance
As most of you already know, I have been teaching two special girls (Brooklyn and Bethany) two worship dances for Berea's Christmas Program. We started back in October working on one song, then adding another one in November. I have played with the idea of doing something like this, but really never had the motivation to do it. Until...Sharon called me up and asked if I would be interested in doing this. At first, I was kind of hestitate, but with her praying for me and myself praying for guidance. I decided to go for it, and I have felt that this was the right step in my life and growing closer to God. Thank you Sharon for calling me up and praying for me. This has been a great adventure in my life and I am sure there is more to come. Not only has then an opportunity to do something I like this, but I came out with wonderful friends.
They had their program last night and I was in awe of the whole program. With the singing, the plays, and of course my favorite part the the dancing. I was nervous for the girls, but once I saw them walking down the aisle, it all seemed to disappear. After the program was over, I was so proud of the girls, it seemed like it was my 2 girls up there. Everyone enjoyed their dances, I am so glad.
They really did a GREAT job and hopefully we can work together, again (I know we will). It seems bittersweet that last night was their performance. I know that me and my girls loved to have them over to practice and we are going to miss that time.
Here are the videos: First one is "Give Us Clean Hands"
Second one is "East to West" by Casting Crows
Enjoy.
They had their program last night and I was in awe of the whole program. With the singing, the plays, and of course my favorite part the the dancing. I was nervous for the girls, but once I saw them walking down the aisle, it all seemed to disappear. After the program was over, I was so proud of the girls, it seemed like it was my 2 girls up there. Everyone enjoyed their dances, I am so glad.
They really did a GREAT job and hopefully we can work together, again (I know we will). It seems bittersweet that last night was their performance. I know that me and my girls loved to have them over to practice and we are going to miss that time.
Here are the videos: First one is "Give Us Clean Hands"
Second one is "East to West" by Casting Crows
Enjoy.
My Blogging Award.
Wow! I have been notimated by Leah and Chelsa for a blogging award (You too, are great friends too). I want to thank all of my fans, my family, and friends. I guess reading these and posting my families stories have paid off. YEAH!!!! I am glad that my family and friends enjoy my ramblings...kind of makes me all warm inside;)
So, here are the rules to receiving this award:
1. You have to pass it on to 5 other fabulous bloggers in a post.
2. You have to list 5 of your fabulous addictions in the post.
3. You must copy and paste the rules and the instructions below in the post.Instructions: On your post of receiving this award, make sure you include the person that gave you the award and link it back to them.
I'm going to nominate...
1. Ashley from Knepps Nest: I have meant her through mutual friends and her loving husband a couple of years ago. She is the most sweetest girl that you will meet and I love to read her blog about the trips that her and Jarod go on.
2. Shawna from MillerMadness: I have known this girl what seems to be forever. She has a beautiful family. I love reading about her daughter (her and Grace will be in the same class). Oh, and they are expecting to add another beautiful addition to the family in a couple of months.
3. Kaycee from Love, Laughter and Friendship: This gal is like a sister to me, maybe because she is my sister-in-law. I have known her since she was 10. She is fun loving, outgoing, and LOVES her neices. I am so glad to have her has a sister.
4. Jenelle from Three From Above: Although I don't know her very well outside of the Blog World, she is such a great person. She has 3 beautiful childern and her love for them, her husband, and our Savior is Awesome.
5. Number 5 is going to be two people: Abby: It seems like I have known her forever, too. She was a grade younger than me, we were both on the cheerleading squad and dance team. We were friends through those two common interest, but it wasn't until recently when we started that friendship up again. Through a couple more common interest: Are daughters (Lillie and Grace) are a year apart, our second round of kids (Karson and Izabelle) are about a year apart, (I'm starting to notice a pattern), we have loving hubbies, and our love for God. She has gave me some great advice through the last couple of months, thanks to the hour at dance class. Thanks Abby:)
The other one is for Tera: I have known her for a couple of years, through a mutual friend Jamie, for starting us on the experience of Arbonne...She has given me some great advice. I love reading about her September Sweeties...they are too adorable. I am glad that I met you.
And now for my addictions.
1. My Girls...I am always buying cute outfits, playing, dancing, and singing with them (although the neighbors are probably thinking someone keep that dog quiet...my singing).
2. Blogging...I am always on this thing. I think people are starting to catch on at work...hehehe:)
3. Dancing...I love to dance, as all of you already know.
4. Sweets...I love desserts, maybe that is why I can't lose the last 5 lbs. of baby weight.
5. Matt...my loving hubby...Although he doesn't know this, I have someone stalk him throughout the day...just kidding. But his mom really does good about keeping track of him and his dad while they are at work. Thanks Patty:)
God Bless...
Monday, December 15, 2008
What a Wonderful Weekend
We had such a wonderful weekend. This is going to be varily long post, so please bare with me. Pictures and yes, VIDEOS are posted too, these are must sees. Anyway Friday night, we went to the 4-H building in Martin County to get it set up for the Mattingly Christmas Party on Saturday. Then Mom and I made a late night trip to Wal-Mart to get all the last minute items for the games. Saturday morning I had to get up bright and early to go for the Senior Vikette Practice (they are performing to "I Can Only Imagine" at the Boy's Varsity Game on Tuesday). Then it was back home to get everything ready to go the Mattingly Christmas Party. It was really great to see everyone together again, watching the children running around, and just enjoying the time. My Aunt Brenda and Uncle Mike brought pictures that they have collected over the years. How the memories kept flowing back? Some of those memories some us might have wanted to forget, but most of them were great to see how we were back then and how we are now. It was great...Thanks:) After lunch, Mom printed out some wonderful games for all of us to play. And they were quite comical. The first game was "Dress up Santa". There were 2 groups of 4. They had pieces of red table cover (plastic), pieces of betting to make the white on the sleeves and coat, and pieces of black poster board for the belt. Once they had the Santa Dressed up, they had to put petrolum jelly on their face and race to the next table, where the cotton balls (Santa's Beard) were, they had to stick their face into the bowl of cotton balls, run to the chair where the Santa Hat was, put it on and say "Ho, Ho, Ho". It was a blast. Video Posted below. The next game we played was "Rudolph's Antlers". This one we had 3 teams of four. The material they had to use was. Panty hoes, balloons, string, and blinking red noses. Each Rudolph had to put their blinking nose on and when we said go, they had to put the panty hoes over their head (there was a 5" hole for the face) then your partners had to blow up balloons and put them through the opening at the toes of the panty hoes and continue to do that until the time was up (5 minutes). This was hilarious too. Of course, my man Matt, Grant, Amanda, and Derek WON!!!! Well they had to show off Matt's nice RACK and went to the highway and waved at the travelers. Got some HONKS!!! Video and pictures posted below.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Movie Review
Matt and I actually went on a date night last Saturday...We took the girls to my mom's and off to Jasper we went for supper, some Christmas Shopping, and movie. We didn't know what movie we were going to watch, it was either 4 Christmases or Australia. Since we wanted to eat first and do some shopping we decided to watch the later movie which was Australia.
Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman are the main characters in the movie. Here is a brief description of the movie.
In northern Australia at the beginning of World War II, an English aristocrat (Kidman) inherits a cattle station the size of Maryland. When English cattle barons plot to take her land, she reluctantly joins forces with a rough-hewn stock-man (Jackman) to drive 2,000 head of cattle across hundreds of miles of the country's most unforgiving land, only to still face the bombing of Darwin, Australia, by the Japanese forces that had attacked Pearl Harbor only months earlier. Another character in this movie was a little boy that played as an Aborigine boy. He lived on the land with his mother and grandmother that Kidman's character inherited. Well, Kidman's character was quite fond of this child and protected him.
Just a side note: During this time, aboriginal children were taken from their families by Europeans. The origin of the practice of separating black children from their parents was in the desire to turn them into useful citizens. Whites wanted to create an Aboriginal working class...this was also a storyline in the movie, as well.
A very good movie...it was funny, dramatic, exciting, and a love story.
Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman are the main characters in the movie. Here is a brief description of the movie.
In northern Australia at the beginning of World War II, an English aristocrat (Kidman) inherits a cattle station the size of Maryland. When English cattle barons plot to take her land, she reluctantly joins forces with a rough-hewn stock-man (Jackman) to drive 2,000 head of cattle across hundreds of miles of the country's most unforgiving land, only to still face the bombing of Darwin, Australia, by the Japanese forces that had attacked Pearl Harbor only months earlier. Another character in this movie was a little boy that played as an Aborigine boy. He lived on the land with his mother and grandmother that Kidman's character inherited. Well, Kidman's character was quite fond of this child and protected him.
Just a side note: During this time, aboriginal children were taken from their families by Europeans. The origin of the practice of separating black children from their parents was in the desire to turn them into useful citizens. Whites wanted to create an Aboriginal working class...this was also a storyline in the movie, as well.
A very good movie...it was funny, dramatic, exciting, and a love story.
Until Next Time...
God Bless:)
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Updated Pictures
Here are some pictures from the past couple of weeks.
The Great-Granddaughters
Grace and Emma Chasing Izabelle
Uncle Skitter and my dad
Mame and My neice Emily
Emma and Grace
Uncle Grant with Tristan and Grace
Playing keep away
Izabelle tackling Grant (After she finally warmed up to him)
Give me that pacy
Emily and Izabelle working on the computer
Emma and Grace
Uncle Grant with Tristan and Grace
Playing keep away
Izabelle tackling Grant (After she finally warmed up to him)
Give me that pacy
Emily and Izabelle working on the computer
God Bless...
Jess
Monday, December 8, 2008
Happy Birthday, Dad
Yesterday was my dad's 49th Birthday...Youngin' I know. After lunch we all went down to my mom and dad's to spend the afternoon with my dad for his birthday, before he had to go to work. The girls and my nephew sang "Happy Birthday" and helped blow out candles (well Izabelle tried to eat the cake instead of blowing). We just visited and watched the Colts game. I love spending time with everyone. Unfortunately I had to miss Greta's annual Cookie Exchange...Sorry Greta:(
After dad went to work, we headed home because I had Christain Life class at church, then Small Groups. I wanted to say a few words about these two activities. First, Christain Life Class has really been a blessing in my life...sometimes I leave feeling overwhelmed with all the Biblical lessons I have learned, but then it forms into happiness and peacefullness that I am learning all these new things that God wants me to be doing to make my life better. To live according to his word. So, last night we walked through our Baptizing ceremony (sometime in January). That is right, I am getting rebaptized. I am excited and nervous all in one...the nervousness comes from speaking in front of the congregation. The excitement from accepting Jesus as my savior...Words can't express what I am feeling right now. I better start now, writing what I am going to say.
I am so glad that we decided to join Small Groups, just being around these wonderful Christain Families...they have been great mentors to Matt and I. Thank you:) An then watching the vidoes that we are studying has shown us how we would like to raise our childern. Thank you Jamie for hosting...the meal, desert, and gift. We really appreciate it.
Until next time...
God Bless
Jess
After dad went to work, we headed home because I had Christain Life class at church, then Small Groups. I wanted to say a few words about these two activities. First, Christain Life Class has really been a blessing in my life...sometimes I leave feeling overwhelmed with all the Biblical lessons I have learned, but then it forms into happiness and peacefullness that I am learning all these new things that God wants me to be doing to make my life better. To live according to his word. So, last night we walked through our Baptizing ceremony (sometime in January). That is right, I am getting rebaptized. I am excited and nervous all in one...the nervousness comes from speaking in front of the congregation. The excitement from accepting Jesus as my savior...Words can't express what I am feeling right now. I better start now, writing what I am going to say.
I am so glad that we decided to join Small Groups, just being around these wonderful Christain Families...they have been great mentors to Matt and I. Thank you:) An then watching the vidoes that we are studying has shown us how we would like to raise our childern. Thank you Jamie for hosting...the meal, desert, and gift. We really appreciate it.
Until next time...
God Bless
Jess
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Visiting with Grant
I know that most of my post have been about Grant, but Grant FINALLY arrived to Washington last night…Mom and Amanda met him at the Armory. We decided not to go because we figured that he just wanted to get out of there and home (part of this was his decision too). It was about 9pm that they got to my parent’s house. The girls stayed up alittle pass their bedtime to hear from him, but they started to get grouchy, so I put them to bed. I am just glad that he is home
I woke up with this morning just happy. On my way to work, my mom called me and told me what time they made it back home and that everyone was still sleeping. After work on Tuesday the girls and I made it out to my mom and dad's to visit with Grant. On the way out there we saw Grant driving to town and about 5 minutes later he called and seeing his name on my phone, reality really struck me that he is home. He wanted to tell us that he had to go to town and he will be right back. So, we visited with nana and papaw. When Grant came home, he came downstairs to see us and Grace through her arms around him and gave him a big hug. Izabelle, well she really didn't know what to think. But after a few tickles and stares she finally warmed up to him. Although it took him taking her pacy or Babie as she says for her to give him a kiss on the check. He looked so good and so happy. My sister and her family came over and we had a great time sitting at the table just talking about whatever. It was good to have all 3 siblings together. Grant showed us some pictures, one of them was his truck. It was huge...he said it had 17 lights on it. I will have to see if he can let me get a picture of it to post it. I asked Grant what he did and he said that he transported things from one base to another...He didn't actually transport the things, but was the guard for it. I am sure I will hear more stories about his time in Iraq. I know another story, but I am not sure if Grant will let me post about it or not.
I will try to get some pictures up.
Until Next Time...
God Bless
Jess
I woke up with this morning just happy. On my way to work, my mom called me and told me what time they made it back home and that everyone was still sleeping. After work on Tuesday the girls and I made it out to my mom and dad's to visit with Grant. On the way out there we saw Grant driving to town and about 5 minutes later he called and seeing his name on my phone, reality really struck me that he is home. He wanted to tell us that he had to go to town and he will be right back. So, we visited with nana and papaw. When Grant came home, he came downstairs to see us and Grace through her arms around him and gave him a big hug. Izabelle, well she really didn't know what to think. But after a few tickles and stares she finally warmed up to him. Although it took him taking her pacy or Babie as she says for her to give him a kiss on the check. He looked so good and so happy. My sister and her family came over and we had a great time sitting at the table just talking about whatever. It was good to have all 3 siblings together. Grant showed us some pictures, one of them was his truck. It was huge...he said it had 17 lights on it. I will have to see if he can let me get a picture of it to post it. I asked Grant what he did and he said that he transported things from one base to another...He didn't actually transport the things, but was the guard for it. I am sure I will hear more stories about his time in Iraq. I know another story, but I am not sure if Grant will let me post about it or not.
I will try to get some pictures up.
Until Next Time...
God Bless
Jess
Monday, December 1, 2008
Praise the Lord
Praise the Lord...He protected my brother form harms way in Iraq. Grant is still in Indy doing his debriefing, we expect his to return to home tomorrow. I am so excited and so proud of him. Just thinking about him and the other's that are serving our country just overwhelms me with pride and gratitude. Thank you guys!!!
We had a wonderful Thanksgiving, again Praise the Lord. We started out Thanksgiving Break by going to the BR vs. WHS Basketball game. Matt went to watch the basketball game and I went to watch the 1/2 time entertainment (the Hatchet's dance team). They did a really good job...makes me nervous to think that the Vikettes will be performing this Friday night at BR's first home game.
Then on Turkey Day, we went to Matt's parents' house to eat with them and some family. Then it was off to my mom's sides family. It was so good to see each other. It was good to see my family able to see and read my blog (didn't know it would reach past Daviess Co. Hehehe). We talked, played games, ate, and talked some more. My mom's uncle Sketter (sp??) was up from Kentucky, so that was nice to see him.
Friday, my sister and I decided to BRAVE WalMart at 4am for Black Friday. It was my first time going so early and waiting for the crates to be opened which was making me kind of nervous, I might add. I got to say that it wasn't has bad as I thought. I was able to get everything on my list and get all of the kids in family done (including mine, except for stocking stuffers) with one stop. We there for about 2 hours and when we were on the way up front we heard some fighting by the produce (those grapes must have been on sale or really good!)...that really made me nervous. So, we finally made it through the cashiers and out the door.
The rest of the weekend was quiet and relaxing. I finally got my Christmas tree up last night, so tonight Grace and I will put the ornaments on and more Christmas decorations up.
Until then...
God bless.
Jess
We had a wonderful Thanksgiving, again Praise the Lord. We started out Thanksgiving Break by going to the BR vs. WHS Basketball game. Matt went to watch the basketball game and I went to watch the 1/2 time entertainment (the Hatchet's dance team). They did a really good job...makes me nervous to think that the Vikettes will be performing this Friday night at BR's first home game.
Then on Turkey Day, we went to Matt's parents' house to eat with them and some family. Then it was off to my mom's sides family. It was so good to see each other. It was good to see my family able to see and read my blog (didn't know it would reach past Daviess Co. Hehehe). We talked, played games, ate, and talked some more. My mom's uncle Sketter (sp??) was up from Kentucky, so that was nice to see him.
Friday, my sister and I decided to BRAVE WalMart at 4am for Black Friday. It was my first time going so early and waiting for the crates to be opened which was making me kind of nervous, I might add. I got to say that it wasn't has bad as I thought. I was able to get everything on my list and get all of the kids in family done (including mine, except for stocking stuffers) with one stop. We there for about 2 hours and when we were on the way up front we heard some fighting by the produce (those grapes must have been on sale or really good!)...that really made me nervous. So, we finally made it through the cashiers and out the door.
The rest of the weekend was quiet and relaxing. I finally got my Christmas tree up last night, so tonight Grace and I will put the ornaments on and more Christmas decorations up.
Until then...
God bless.
Jess
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