Jo Mama

News!!!

2012-01-06T15:13:00.002-07:00

I know I am behind and I have not written anything in awhile, but this might have something to do with it. You are going to want to watch this one!!

Our Newest News:)

Jo Lee

TAC Academy: Fall Crafts

2011-12-08T09:34:00.000-07:00

TAC Academy: Fall Crafts

Wordless Wednesday - Christmas Pictures

2011-12-07T14:11:00.001-07:00

Jo Lee

Not Me! Monday

2011-11-07T14:24:00.002-07:00

I am not linking with Not Me! Monday! because I have not written a post in a while and have no idea what to write about.

I did not fall in love with a dog this weekend and hope that my husband would too, and once he did go to the store and get stuff for him.

I am not almost caught up on laundry today, not me that would be a miracle.

I did/am not enjoying the early snow, nor did I let my two youngest go out to play in the snow with double layered socks and tennis shoes.

I am not seriously considering taking a nap with the kids this afternoon.

Jo Lee

New Family Member

2011-11-05T20:24:00.001-06:00

Meet Sasha. He is our newest family member.

TAC Academy Post

2011-10-19T13:52:00.001-06:00

To check out what we have been up to this week check out the TAC Academy Blog

Rambling

2011-10-13T20:50:00.001-06:00

Yes, I am rambling and mostly playing with the new toy my hubby got me last week! He was so awesome as to get me an iPhone and I can bog from it, super fun.
So what have we been up to?
Lots if school, appointments and the usual house cleaning that I am super behind in.
And to end my rambling I will leave you with a few random pictures.

Not Me! Monday!

2011-10-03T16:12:00.000-06:00

Not me...

I am not so tired I can hardly type and should be taking a nap but I do not want to.

I did not get up and drag three littles to the dentist and 7:45am, how makes dentist appointments for there children or anyone that early in the morning anyways.

I am not putting of home school, my to-do list, or any thing else today.

Nope not me I would not do any of those things:)

Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.

Jo Lee

Wordless Wednesday - Related

2011-09-07T07:30:00.000-06:00

My kids are not related at all are they! Decide for yourself.

Jo Lee

My Man Rocks

2011-09-05T14:11:00.001-06:00

My man rocks because he does not mind doing yard work and is even doing it on an extra day off.

I am thankful we have a yard to do work in.

Jo Lee

TAC Academy: School has Started

2011-09-01T12:54:00.000-06:00

TAC Academy: School has Started click on the link to check our first official day!

Hair Cut (not just one, but all of them)

2011-08-31T20:48:00.000-06:00

Benen finally let us cut his hair tonight

Jo Lee

Faces and Teeth

2011-08-27T09:24:00.002-06:00

I have 2 teeth!

I also make funny faces when mommy is trying to get me to smile!

Jo Lee

Walks With Purpose....

2011-08-26T09:20:00.000-06:00

... or Just Walks!

Jo Lee

Long Time No Blog

2011-08-25T21:28:00.000-06:00

I know it has been a long time sense I blogged. I have good reasons, but there is always reasons for everything. So instead of giving you my sing song about way I have not blogged I will just let you know what we have been up to (and then I am sure you will get the idea).

The kids have been doing lots of this (now that we have a yard to do it in:).

I have been getting ready for this (we start next week).

We finished unpacking the last of these.

I always have this to do!

I have also been doing lots of this (yes, because I do not have enough to do I am going back to school, it is only though, so just picture this desk with a computer on it and that would be a more accurate picture).

Jo Lee

8 Years

2011-07-26T15:43:00.000-06:00

8 years ago this is what we looked like!

Young and in love and ready to face the world.

8 years have brought us 3 beautiful kids, many surprises, heart aches, and lots of growth.

Would I do it all over again, yes.

Because I am more in love with you today then I was 8 years ago on that cloudy July 19th.

I am blessed and honored by you my love Matt Lee, and I am more thankful to God for bring you into my life than words can express.

Jo Lee

1st B-day Presents and Cake

2011-07-07T08:04:00.000-06:00

Somer's 1st B-day Presents and Cake:

Jo Lee

Wordless Wednesday - My Buddy David

2011-07-06T14:59:00.000-06:00

Jo Lee

Somer is 1!

2011-06-30T20:09:00.000-06:00

Somer Joy Lee: it has been a year since mommy looked like this:

And was ready for you to be here.

On June 30, 2010 you did arrive, looking like this:

Daddy was super excited to announce to the world that you had arrived very early in the morning.

You looked like your sister, yet you looked like you.

You were and are completely adored and loved on by your siblings.

You made us a family of 5.

You are beautiful.

You have a contagious smile the fills your face and everyone around you with joy.

You are easy going and so peaceful.

You love your left thumb.

You love to stick out your tongue and get other people to copy you.

You can give some of the best snuggles.

Like I said your smile, it is contagious.

In the last few months you have become independent with crawling and feeding yourself.

And this is you today, tongue smile and all:

Happy Birthday my little Somer (Womer Pomer) Joy. I love you.

Jo Lee

Lee Family Update

2011-06-27T10:19:00.001-06:00

What are we up to?

Will, at that moment. Matt is at work. I am drinking coffee and typing a blog post. Anna is avoiding putting away the dishes. Benen is being a great big brother and playing with Somer. Somer is crawling all over the place and getting into everything.

I am chugging away at school, and am doing pretty good. I turn 30 this week, and I am actually excited to be 30, no reason other than I am excited to see what maturing and life God has in store for the next 30 years.

Matt - is busy with work, men's ministry, and worship ministry.

Anna is enjoying the summer vacation, but not so much the fact that she still has to do chores.

Benen is loving being 4, but is struggling with being the middle child (he is not the baby but also not big enough to do things with Anna sometimes).

Somer is growing quickly. She is crawling and pulling herself up on everything in sight, it will not be long until she walks. She also turns 1 this week - crazy.

Jo Lee

Thank You-Auntie Toots

2011-06-20T17:08:00.000-06:00

We got a package from Auntie Toots today; with some fun Japanese musical instruments. Thanks for all the fun stuff.

Jo Lee

Wordless Wednesday - Spaghetti Dinner

2011-06-15T08:19:00.000-06:00

Somer and her Spaghetti Dinner

Jo Lee

Benen is 4

2011-06-14T15:42:00.001-06:00

Benen turns 4 today! (not really sure how that happened)

So here is to my surprise little boy, you are very quickly turning into a little man. You are a joy to be around, you are sensitive, caring, and always helpful. You are curious and smart. You are like your dad in so many ways. I love you and you are a true blessing to this family.

Jo Lee

What have we been up to?

2011-06-10T09:41:00.000-06:00

We have been up to a lot.

Enjoying the start of summer and summer vacation.

Somer is now crawling; we had to put the gates up. (Once I have a good video of her crawling I will post it).

I started school. Yes; I am going back to school. I am taking online courses to get a Bachelors Degree in Human Services Management (Social Work). I am excited and nervous at the same time. I am hoping to eventually be able to do homestudies for adoptions and I would also like to do work with marriage and family advocacy and training. We will see what all God has in store for this.

We have also been getting ready for a birthday blitz. We have Benen (turning 4) and Uncle Michael (turning 24) on June 14th, then Aunt Tammie (turning 28) on June 22nd, then Somer (turning 1) on June 30th, and lastly Me (turning 30) on July first. My mom said it was worse than Christmas - at least with Christmas it is all on the same day.

How do I feel about turning 30? Not sure; I really do not feel like I should be 30. I know I am, but at the same time I feel so young and immature - wonder if I will ever feel mature? Probably not. I am okay with turning 30; that does not bother me; just do not feel that old I guess. Make sense?

Jo Lee

Anna's Baptism

2011-06-01T11:12:00.000-06:00

Anna got baptized on Sunday. Here are some pictures of it.

Matt: baptized her, and as you can tell was very excited. Matt had our senior pastor, Pastor Dwight, pray for her and it was a very prophetic prayer.

In talking to Anna about why she wanted to get baptized and in teaching her about baptism I have realized that baptism is actually a very simple and at the same time a very big step in obedience. I think that God designed baptism to be simple to understand; as it is meant to be done after we except Him - it reminds me of child like faith. The simplicity of it is that God commands us to do it and we do. At the same time it is a huge act of obedience, while baptism does not save you it is an act of saying before witnesses that I have surrender my life to God - which doing that in public is a huge blow to the enemy. That is exactly what Anna did.

We are very proud of our little girl for wanting to be obedient!

Jo Lee

I am here....

2011-05-23T20:59:00.001-06:00

I am still here.... I have not thrown the blog thing out the window.... I have lots of thoughts going on in my head... I am learning a lot.... I am being challenged...... I am just not ready to share yet...... because some of it is still to close to my heart... some of it is not a fluid thought... some of it is not shareable.... so you may have to deal with the silence for a little bit longer... sorry..... I will be back I am sure soon and with lots to share!

Jo Lee

TAC Academy: Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park

2011-04-30T14:25:00.001-06:00

Check out what we did this week at school:

TAC Academy: Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park: "Yesterday we went to the Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park: We got to go around while the feed the animals, and the kids even got to feed some of ..."

31 Cent Scoop Night

2011-04-29T13:57:00.000-06:00

Wednesday we went to 31 Cent Scoop Night at Basic Robins - because who can beat getting a family of 4 ice cream for 2 bucks?

The Fire Department was there and they also had face painting. The kids had a blast.

Jo Lee

Easter 2011

2011-04-29T08:16:00.000-06:00

The week of Easter (last week) I got super sick. I have not been that sick sense high school. I got strep so bad that I could not swallowing without being in large amounts of pain, so I did not eat or drink anything for a few days - great diet plan not great health plan. After a trip to the ER and a shot that did not work, and then another trip the Urgent Care and two more shots, and three medication that worked I am much better.

All that to say that we did not do a whole lot for Easter. I had plans of doing some fun crafts with the kids, but God had plans for me to rest. We did make it out to my parents house Easter Sunday and enjoyed some family time. The big kids and Matt went to church and enjoyed celebrating our Saviors resurrection with family of choice. So here are the few pictures that I have:

Jo Lee

Anna Turns 7!

2011-04-28T10:10:00.000-06:00

A couple weeks ago Anna turned 7! ( on 4-16)

She wanted a sleepover party, here first. So we had 3 girls over, made pizza, and they stayed up way to late laughing and giggling. She had fun and so did they.

After all the girls left on Saturday, we went to Papa and Grandma's house to have a family party. Benen had a sleepover party there, so we also picked him up.

Jo Lee

Still here...

2011-04-25T13:49:00.000-06:00

I have lots to blog about....

Anna's 7th Birthday...

Easter....

Life....

Thoughts going around my head....

You know the usual random blog posts....

but I got a really bad case of strep last week, and I am still low on energy so I am going to go take a nap.

Just stayed tuned for the catch-up blogging to come soon.

Jo Lee

TAC Academy: Durango Discovery Museum

2011-04-08T15:06:00.000-06:00

Check out our latest homeschooling adventure - TAC Academy: Durango Discovery Museum

Jo Lee

A Post

2011-03-29T21:38:00.000-06:00

"A Post"

Because I am not witty enough to come up with a creative title.

What have we been up to in our house?

Will school; for both Anna and me. Anna is cruising right along in her 1st grade year, and I will be going back to college soon. I am going to go to the University of Phoenix and before I official start I am taking some workshops - need to refresh my mind on what it is like to be a student, it has only been 7 years sense I took a class and all. I am excited and I know I am doing what God wants me to do, but I can get overwhelmed with all the changes I can see coming - I stop and just give it to God - taking it one step at a time. If you would like to see more what Anna has been doing you can go here: tacacademy.blogspot.com

We are enjoying the promise of spring and getting outside as much as we can. I am trying new things in the kitchen and will hopefully be saving some money on our grocery bill, at least that is the goal. I have been reading stuff about people that can eat healthy and spend between 200 and 250 dollars a month to feed a family of 4 - so I am attempting to implement those ideas and spent less on groceries.

Matt is busy at work, with mens ministry, and with worship stuff at church.

Anna turns 7 next month - I am not ready for that. She wants a sleep over party and is very related to her mother - she is in to planning every detail of the party even when they will go to sleep.

Benen is developing into a very caring little man. He loves on his sisters and loves to play with dad. He is starting to play pretend and it is fun to watch him and Anna play.

Somer is getting more mobile, still not crawling but she will scoot backwards on her belly and will roll around to get to things. If I can get the big kids to stop running to her every squawk maybe she will crawl soon. Her VUR seems to be doing good and not bothering her. We had some elders at church pray for her Sunday and we are believing that she is healed.

So; there you have it. That is "A Post"

Jo Lee

Better Than the Day He Was Born

2011-03-24T07:45:00.001-06:00

You might be asking how can anything be better than the day someone is born? For this mom the day they except Jesus is better.

Benen did that yesterday, and I am elated. We were eating lunch and Anna asked what it means to have heaven in your heart. After explaining that to her, Benen chimed in and said he want to have Jesus and Heaven in his heart. So we talked about what Jesus did on the cross and about what sins are, and we prayed. It was awesome. I remember feeling the same way when Anna prayed.

"Lord, allow Benen to never forget what he has done. Keep his heart close to You, and may he follow You all his days. Amen"

Today I am thankful for salvation and a child's faith.

Jo Lee

Wordless Wednesday - Cute Kids

2011-03-23T08:33:00.001-06:00

Jo Lee

Business As Usual

2011-03-21T09:36:00.005-06:00

Just business as usual around here:

Jo Lee

Balancing the Garden

2011-03-20T21:32:00.000-06:00

Apparently it was time to plant a garden....

...in the house.

I may not crawl...

... but I have great balance and the cutest face on any 8 month old out there.

Jo Lee

This weekend I...

2011-03-14T10:11:00.000-06:00

This weekend I...

... had a relaxing Friday night at home with the kids.

... slept in a little on Saturday.

... did some cooking and cleaning on Saturday.

...comforted a sick boy, and cleaned up his throw-up.

...got to stay home Sunday with the sick boy and the baby.

...made snacks.

...made chips.

..started a small grease fire.

...cleaned up the mess form putting out the small grease fire.

...made 2 dinners.

...got stuff ready for school this week.

For a weekend at home the was pretty event full and busy.

Jo Lee

Wordless Wednesday - Benen

2011-03-09T07:28:00.000-07:00

This is my son's own invention on how to pee standing up!

Apparently plastic car maps make great blankets!

Jo Lee

Fun while in Denver

2011-03-06T15:27:00.000-07:00

Even though we were in Denver for a not fun reason last week.. we managed to have some fun.

Waiting in Radiology:

A Somer Sunflower in Target:

Jo Lee

Somer, VUR, Thoughts, and More

2011-03-04T15:16:00.000-07:00

I have a lot on my mind right now. It is funny when I look at facebook and they ask what is on your mind I just stair not knowing what to put - because there is so much there.

This week I took Somer to Denver to see a Pediatric Urologist. She has what is called VUR (Urinary Reflux). She pees back up into her kidneys. They gave us 3 ways to treat it: medicine and time to see if she grows out of it (there is a 30% chance she will do that), a none evasive same day 20 minute surgery (it has an 80% success rate), and an evasive over night 2 hour surgery (it has a 99% success rate). I decided to do the meds for a year and then she will be reevaluated and we will see where she is at. I am confident with my decision but it is still tiring and hard to go through. They also said that some of her fussiness (she is not really fussy she will just randomly cry in pain) is because they can feel the urine going back into their kidneys and it hurts - I would cry too.

I am thankful for friends like Kim and Ashley that went with us to Denver. Ashley had to see her specialists too; it was nice to have understand people to go with. I really missed Matt - he is my best friend and partner and Somers dad and it was hard to make major decisions without him. He agrees, but it was still hard to do. I also missed my big kids - they are fun to be around and I enjoy them all. I think they missed me too - when I got hoe last night they talked my ear off; both of them.

"I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord..." God knows what the future holds and He has a plan. I do not have to one. I can just take the steps I hear Him telling me to take I know that He has it under control.

I am applying to go back to school online - okay I said it, it is out there, it is real. I am going to get a BS in Human Services Management - a social workers degree. Eventually what I want to do it adoption home studies. The degree has to come first; so I am starting there - it will be online.

That is all. Enjoy your weekend.

Jo Lee

Thankful Thrusday

2011-03-03T20:59:00.000-07:00

I am thankful...

... to be home after a quick and long trip to Denver.

... for friends to go to Denver with.

.. for friends and family to watch my kiddos while I was in Denver.

... for answers to what has and is going on with little Somer.

... for medicine that makes it possible for her to wait to have surgery.

... that God gives people great intelligence so they can be come doctors and specialize in things like pediatric urology.

... for my husband and everything he does everyday.

... for God's grace: especially grace for the moment.

Jo Lee

My Man Rocks

2011-02-28T14:32:00.000-07:00

Matt rocks because I can take Somer to Denver to see a specialist and leave the other kids home with him - knowing that he will take care of them. Thank you for making it easy to leave them with you.

Jo Lee

2nd Durango Daddy Daughter Dance

2011-02-26T21:12:00.000-07:00

2011 Durango Daddy Daughter Dance

The Princess all ready for her date:

Their "Fancy" Dinner:

The Princess and Her Prince (King):
Funny Story: Anna wanted to take a picture of her dad holding like they had just gotten married, and this is what she wanted.

Benen and Somer (because when you take a picture of one you have to take a picture of them all).

Jo Lee

Wordless Wednesday - A little reading and feeding!

2011-02-23T07:23:00.000-07:00

A little reading

A little feeding

Jo Lee

Thankful Thursday

2011-02-17T16:49:00.000-07:00

I am thankful for God's protection. I am thankful that this boulder did not fall into our home and that the home it did fall into had no one home at the time.

If you are curious you can read more about it here: Prius-Size Boulder Crashes Through Townhome

Jo Lee

Some Random Stuff...

2011-02-16T14:35:00.000-07:00

Let's see....

.... One of the houses in your apartment complex had a boulder fall off the mountain behind us and do major damage to the house yesterday. I keep looking outside at the rock wall and hill side - checking it. I realized that I need to just know God's got us all safely in His arms - but still crazy to think about.

... I realize that as a mom and parent we want to protect our children from pain and hurt and we want them to be healthy. I have had to give myself permission to be okay with not wanting Somer to have to go to a specialist for her urinary tract and facing surgery in the future. I am her mom and even though there are worse things that could happen to her as her mom I want to protect her form anything that could happen to her - but I can not and that would not be what is best for her.

... I am exhausted and slowly getting caught up on laundry from May of 2010 - really seriously I do not think I have been caught up on laundry sense then, but I can actually see a light at the end of the tunnel.

... Matt gets the transmission for our second car today and it will hopefully be in on Saturday - so we go back to have 2 cars. Yeah!

... The last 2 days it has been in the mid 50's and today it is overcast and supposed to snow - Colorado Weather got to love it.

... I am seriously contemplating making matching dress for the girls for Easter. If I do I will let you know how that goes - I am not always the best seamstress, so we will see.

... we got our Girl Scout Cookies today - we will see how long they last?

... ever had Oyster Ranch Crackers? They are supper yummy - I think I will make some for snack.

.. . the kids are down for a nap and I think I will join them for a little bit, and then it is up to do some more house work.

Jo Lee

Bedtime Stories

2011-02-14T13:33:00.000-07:00

Bedtime Stories:

Anna and Benen listening to Daddy read.

Daddy reading.

Somer "reading"!

Jo Lee

I do not want to...

2011-02-04T07:22:00.001-07:00

I am going to be totally honest for a minute.

I do not want to..
.. i do not want to make appointments and arrangements to take Somer to a specialist in Denver. I know that there is something going to with her, but honestly I just want to pretend none of it is happening. I am not worried or freaking out - just do not want to live reality right now. Ever been there - where you just want to prentend that you live in happy land were everything is easy and you never have to stress about anything; where you can fall out of a tree and magically a handsome prince catches you? -- Oddly; I think that a handsome prince is always there to catch us and more; to hold our hands every step off the way. Okay, God; I will rest you in. "Trust the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.... and he will make your paths straight"... okay; I trust.

Jo Lee

What am I Thankful For?

2011-02-03T13:36:00.000-07:00

What am I thankful for today?

I am thankful..

... for my friend Kim; who changed her daughters appointment and is letting us tag along to Denver so that I do not have to take little Somer alone.

... for a husband who is very excited about new technology.

... for kids that love to be around people.

... for dinner last night with friends.

... for a little girl that loves to play and make baby noises; and her ability to make those noises.

... for a snuggly son.

... for a daughter that is very perceptive.

... for God's grace and guidance.

Jo Lee

Somer Joy is 7 Months Old

2011-01-30T21:49:00.000-07:00

Crazy but our little girl is 7 months old today.

She can feed herself

She can set up.

She can play peek-a-boo.

She is just generally joyful and fun.

Jo Lee

Thankful Thursday - According to Benen and Anna

2011-01-20T10:57:00.001-07:00

"I am thankful for...

... dad - I think.

... baby too.

... you mom.

... Anna too - I think.

... Dinosaur Train.

... balls.

.. Junior.

... .t jrfjrgrfjfthjrfieiojgfhghufeifjgjrgrifdefvgigtjtijitttity47iy8y888884y48y 4tfghgfjfkjfjufgjfkjtt"

- BENEN

"I am thankful for...

... Papa.

... Auntie Tammie.

... Dad.

... Junior.

... clothes.

... Jesus."

- ANNA

Update on Somer

2011-01-07T23:07:00.000-07:00

So after all that testing - she just has a UTI and is getting better. They have her on antibiotics and she is eating like a champ. We go back to the doctor to check on her in a couple of weeks.

Jo Lee

Letters of Intent

2011-01-06T23:15:00.001-07:00

Dear Baby Girl-
Please lets never ever go to the doctor for a routine check up find out you have lost a pound of weight, have to have a bag taped to your girl parts, wait over an hour to see if you pee - you do not. Get sent to the hospital to get several blood test done (like 8, finally pee - but pee out of the bag on to the diaper), have to get more blood work done because the lab did not have enough, and have to get poked 5 times in order to get all that blood. Okay - I do not need to do that again! How about you just do a better job of telling me you are sick - deal?

Sincerely,
Mom that does not like seeing you in pain

Dear Hospital Lab-
Seriously could you get your act together. I know you need to have good and adequate samples for your tests to work, but could you get your story straight the first time so that pour nurses do not have to poke little babies with big needles some many times.

Thanks,
One annoyed mom

Dear Nursery Nurses-
Thank you for taking your time and for making sure we had everything the lab needed before we left. Thank you for being so gentle and caring with my baby, and I am sorry you had to poke her so many times too.

Thank you,
One mom that needed to know someone cared

Dear Big Kids-
Thank you for being so good while we waited for your sister to pee in a bag for so long at the office. Thank you for being good for your dad, and for getting some school work done with him.

Thank you,
One mom that loves her big kids

Dear Hubby-

Thank you for not even hesitating to leave work and taking care of the big kids while I took care of a sick baby. You rock, and you so earned brownie points for that one.

Thanks,
The brownie point giver

For more Letters of Intent visit: Foursons

My Man Rocks

2011-01-04T15:18:00.000-07:00

My Man Rocks because when I need him to step up he does and I know by his actions that his family is first - not his job or ministry involvement.

Jo Lee

2010

2010-12-31T07:28:00.000-07:00

Our Top 10!

10. We bought a monster truck – okay really a suburban with 33's.

9.Jo home schools and helps with children's ministry.

8.Matt loves his job, He starts leading Men's Ministry, and continues to lead worship.

7.Home school: full steam ahead!

6.We go camping over labor day weekend.

5. Benen turned 3 on 6-14!

4.Anna turned 6 on 4-16!

3. Benen is potty trained!!

2. Anna is learning to read and got her ears pierced.

1. Somer was born on 6-30!

A little slideshow review of our year. Enjoy!

Jo Lee

Thankful Thursday

2010-12-30T16:33:00.001-07:00

Today I am thankful ...

.... for this very big girl, that is growing up way to fast.

... that she loves to play in the snow, do art project, make things for people, and for her very creative mind.

... for this 6 month old - that's right 6 months today.

... that she can set up, roll over, and for her laugh.

... for this loving dad and husband.

... for the joy he gets out of his kids and being with them.

... for this completely potty trained - yes I said completely - big boy.

... for his silly personality, his laugh, and his generally good attitude.

Jo Lee

Christmas Program 2010

2010-12-30T15:57:00.000-07:00

Anna and Benen sang their Christmas songs in church on Sunday (12-12).

Jo Lee

Wordless Wednesday - A Giveaway

2010-12-29T12:08:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in a give away check out this post by Recipes for Moms.

Jo Lee

Christmas 2010

2010-12-28T15:47:00.000-07:00

Christmas was interesting this year - at least Christmas Eve was interesting - but more on that later. For now just enjoy a picture recap of our Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Christmas Eve:

We went to my grandparents house (Grumpy and Great Grandma Jo) and had shrimp and crab for dinner (one of my favorite meals all year - we have been doing this as long as I can remember).

Matt played at the Christmas Eve service at church and joined us later.

Christmas Day:

We opened presents at our house.

Got dressed and went to Papa and Grandma's house.

Opened presents there.

Eat smoked beef brisket and yummy sides for a late lunch.

Made Jesus a birthday cake and celebrated his birthday.

Jo Lee

This weekend I...

2010-12-19T22:08:00.000-07:00

...stayed home and enjoyed Friday night and the snow.

...finished Christmas shopping.

... looked at a house to rent.

.. eat a Serious Texas Taco.

...made Christmas presents for Anna and Benen.

...wrapped Christmas presents.

...went to church.

... played with the 1 year olds and talked about baby Jesus.

... took a nap.

... watched "It's a Wonderful Life" and cried at the end.

... enjoyed some coach time with the hubby.

Jo Lee

Thankful Thursday - Snow

2010-12-16T21:25:00.000-07:00

Today I am thankful for snow.

Jo Lee

Wordless Wednesday - Depraved Indifference

2010-12-15T15:47:00.002-07:00

Jo Lee

Thankful Thursday

2010-12-09T14:26:00.000-07:00

Ever have those days that you just need to remember what you have to be thankful - yep it is one of those days, actually it has been one of those weeks. So here goes... I am thankful for...

... friends.

... a husband that helps around the house and with the kids.

... a house to live in.

... 2 working cars.

... a church to serve in.

... 3 wonderful kids.

... baby laughs - you can not help but smile when you hear them.

... hot water - and a working hot water heater (it broke at some point yesterday and is now working again).

... coffee and Dr. Pepper.

... family.

... God my provider.

Jo Lee

Let's Be Honest

2010-12-06T15:52:00.000-07:00

To be honest I have had a hard time getting in the swing of Christmas around here. I do not know why I just have; then I found Shutterfly.com and a free 50 Christmas Card give away - that is helping. I mean how can pass up 50 free Christmas Cards - not me. I have been playing around with some fun designs. Like these that I love:

They also have great canvas prints and wall art here: http://www.shutterfly.com/home-decor/canvas-wall-art. You can make a personalized gift and then have it sent directly to the recipient - which lets face it is worth giving them a shoot right there; especially for this home of three little ones. Like a mug for the Grandparents or Aunts and Uncle, or a calendar, or you could just check out all the cool stuff they have here: http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery

Something I think is supper fun is a photo invitation that you could make here: http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-invitations

You really should check out Shutterfly.com. They have some great deals, and when you leave in a town with not many options then online deals are great.

So I will let you go check all the seasonal fun you can have over at Shutterfly - enjoy.

Jo Lee

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-25T22:08:00.000-07:00

Jo Lee

Thankful Thursday

2010-11-18T08:16:00.000-07:00

I am thankful for...

family.

kids.

coffee.

paychecks.

daddy daughter time.

Thanksgiving.

church.

family of choice.

date nights.

friends.

dp (dr. pepper).

simple pleasures in life.

Jo Lee

Drowning in Grace

2010-11-17T09:53:00.000-07:00

Sinking: go down below the surface of something.

Grace: free unmerited favor.

"If grace is an ocean we're all sinking."

We are all going below the surface of unmerited favor - we are being over taken by Gods unmerited favor. Lord sink us - me - in you grace today.

Jo Lee

Thankful Thursday - Veterans Day

2010-11-11T09:52:00.000-07:00

Today I am thankful for...

...Veterans, that have sacrificed for my freedom.

... man and women that sacrifice today for my freedom.

... families that have and are sacrificing for my freedom.

... a day to remember what they have done and what they do.

... the country that I live in.

... a God that is in control of all.

... grace, and the fact that if it was an ocean we would all be drowning in it.

Jo Lee

Wordless Wednesday - Not so Wordless

2010-11-10T21:36:00.000-07:00

A Wordless Wednesday that is not so wordless. I was really hit with this this week...

In John chapter 4 Jesus goes to Galilee and an official with a sick son comes and finds him. The official asks Jesus to come heal his son, and this is Jesus's response. John 4:50 "Go...your son will live..." then in the same verse you see the officials response. "...The man took Jesus at his word and departed."

Okay "The man took Jesus at his word and departed." How often do I ask God to do something and do I really take Him and His word... not very often honestly... do I really believe that God is going to do what He said He is going to do and for that matter do I do what He is asking me to do? Do I have unbelief - yes!

Lord forgive my unbelief. I want to just take you at your word and go. Lord give me the opportunity to take you at your word today and to depart with that word - in faith - that you will do it.

Jo Lee

My Man Rocks

2010-11-09T09:33:00.000-07:00

My man rocks because even though he got up at 4:30am to go to work after only about 6 hours of sleep he watched all 3 kids (and number 3 has not been the best mood today) while I went to Book Club and got a much needed break. Thank you babe I really needed that.

Jo Lee

Todays thoughts, ... , and Baby Dedication

2010-11-08T14:59:00.000-07:00

Today I have a lot of thoughts....

I have a lot of things I want to blog...

I have I lot to get done before Wednesday evening...

I am tired (the time change has missed with me this year)...

I am being challenged by God...

For now I will leave you with the ... and some pictures of Somer Joy's dedication on Sunday.

Jo Lee

Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-03T08:16:00.001-06:00

Check out what we have been doing lately on our homeschool blog: TAC Academy

Jo Lee

Letters of Intent

2010-10-28T21:14:00.000-06:00

Dear Somer,

You are 4 months old tomorrow. You have grown so much in a very short amount of time. You are sleeping in the "Girls Room" and sleeping for 12 hours at night. You love to smile and laugh at people especially your brother and sister. You are starting to eat every 4 hours. You enough standing up - and talking to all of us. You have learned to growl and find in fascinating when we growl back, and you also like to stick your tangue out and see if you stick ours out. You love bath time and splashing water every where. You live up to your middle name and are a true Joy to be around. We are enjoying seeing the little lady you are becoming. As Benen calls you "Somer Womer" we love you.

Love,

Your Momma

Dear Benen,

Can I just say that I love your little underwear covered chubbies. I AM SO PROUD OF YOU FOR ACTUALLY POTTY TRAINING. I am not sure if it is just timing or the fact that I asked our small group to pray for you to start, but this momma is praising the Lord. You are doing so good and I am so proud of you. Keep it up handsome big boy.

Love,

One Proud Excited (to have one less diaper to change) Mom

Dear Anna,

While you are my beautiful princess, and I am thankful that you wanted to learn to change Somer's diaper and you actually enjoyed it that does not mean you get to change all her diapers nor do you get to be the parent and think you know everything that Somer needs or wants. I am just saying. I love you but you are 6 going on 7 not 6 going on 30.

Love,

Your Momma - the QUEEN of this Castle my fair Princess

For more Letter of Intent go here.

Thankful Thursday

2010-10-28T14:22:00.000-06:00

Today I am thankful for coffee, friends, and time to myself. If you want to win a chance to enjoy some coffee and time to yourself then go to Jerome's Women and enter her fantastic give away.

Jo Lee

Wordless Wednesday - Audio Adrenaline's Ocean Floor

2010-10-27T14:17:00.000-06:00

Jo Lee

My Man Rocks

2010-10-25T08:02:00.000-06:00

My man rocks for willing and joyfully parenting 2 nights - in a row - last week. Thanks for letting me get out of the house.

Jo Lee

This Weekend I ...

2010-10-24T21:12:00.000-06:00

... went to small group - love them.

... got up and had a lazy morning.

... load up the car went to Bayfield.

... load up a trailer with a car we have that needs an engine. Took it out to my grandparents house to park for the winter.

... loaded up a newer dryer they gave us.

... brought the dryer home.

... went on a date - 100% kidless.

... eat a cajun broil and yummy desert with the hottest man in Durango.

... came home to kids bathed, in pjs, and the dishes done - thanks Heather you are the best.

... went to church. Worshipped, leader about the Lord, and played with toddlers.

... eat a yummy sandwich for lunch.

... took a 3 hour nap.

... enjoyed an evening at home, and dinner made by the awesome hubby.

Jo Lee

Thankful Thursday

2010-10-21T21:01:00.000-06:00

Today I am thankful....

... that Matt has worship practice. Not only does he love playing it gives me time to blog and not neglect him.

... for baby giggles.

... for 2 kids that love on their baby sitter.

... for dominoes and popcorn - totally had a blast playing with the kids today.

... for ice cream motivation.

... for understanding friends.

... for a chance to hangout with Miss. Jinny this week.

... for cooler weather.

... for changes that are happening.

... for life.

Jo Lee

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-20T08:29:00.003-06:00

Jo Lee

Thankful Thursday

2010-10-14T07:43:00.003-06:00

I am thankful for...

Jo Lee

Wordless Wednesday - Gianna Jessen Abortion Survivor

2010-10-13T08:41:00.002-06:00

Jo Lee

My Man Rocks

2010-10-12T08:27:00.000-06:00

My man rocks because he is willing to come to my rescue when I do really silly things - like go on a date with my little man and lady and leave my wallet at home! Thanks babe!

Jo Lee

This Weekend I....

2010-10-11T08:12:00.003-06:00

... made pancakes.

... did some cleaning while Matt worked on the Burban.

... went driving to look at fall colors.

... had a picnic lunch surrounded by my beautiful family and the fall colors.

... took the time to do a little kid photo shoot.

... watched "Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe."

... blogged.

... bathed all the kids and put them to bed in their rooms (even Somer :) - mommy and daddy get their bedroom back to themselves).

... made is to church relatively on time.

... enjoyed lunch with some awesome old - new friends.

... went to a premier of I AM at our church.

... put the kids to bed, and enjoyed some time with the hubby.

Jo Lee

Thankful Thursday

2010-10-07T13:52:00.002-06:00

Today I am thankful for....

... God's grace and protection.

... peace.

... flexibility in homeschooling.

... my baby girls smile - it seriously lights up the room.

... my big girl and just how big she really is.

... my little (okay not so little; but I am not ready for him to be bigger) man that is willing to try anything and thinks he is invincible i.e. trying to jump off of the top bunk of his bed this week. He repeatedly told me that he would not get hurt and repeatedly told him no he would get hurt - I won I threatened to take away the bed.

... my handsome hubby that works very hard to provide for our family.

... the fact that God is in control.

... the fall colors.

... the fact that seasons change - both in life and in nature.

Jo Lee

Wordless Wednesday - Safe

2010-10-06T08:42:00.001-06:00

Jo Lee

My Man Rocks

2010-10-04T08:29:00.000-06:00

My Man Rock because he tries to be a Godly leader and head of the house. He seeks God earnestly and is willing to be honest when he is falling. I love him - his is an amazing example of a Godly man.

Jo Lee

Thankful Thursday

2010-09-30T14:09:00.001-06:00

Today I am thankful for....

... beautiful weather so we can play outside.

... this handsome boy.

... this beautiful girl.

... my sleeping beauty.

... homeschooling.

... an awesome Husband and Father.

... life - God breathed life.

Jo Lee

Wordless Wednesday - Feet

2010-09-29T14:40:00.001-06:00

Jo Lee

Thankful Thursday - Yes it is still Thursday

2010-09-23T22:16:00.000-06:00

You will have to excuse the lateness of my post. I was having fun helping a friend paint her bedroom before they get new carpet - and yes it was fun I am not just saying that, exhausting but fun.

So today I am thankful for...

...friends that trust me to help them paint there house.

... a gigantic pile of laundry that keeps growing and growing.

... a counter full of dirty dishes that I can not seem to keep cleaned off.

... a husband that does not freakout when he comes home and I have rearranged and reorganized the house.

... a husband that will stay late at work even though he does not want to but it needs to get done, and that he knows there is a boundary between working extra occasionally and being a work-a-holic.

... a husband that loves me for me not for what I accomplish during that week.

... chocolate milk.

... coffee and fanciness to put in me coffee.

... Diet Dr. Pepper.

... homeschooling.

... for 3 awesome kids.

Jo Lee

Wordless Wednesday - Lee Family Worshippers

2010-09-22T08:30:00.002-06:00

Jo Lee

Smiles

2010-09-21T07:49:00.003-06:00

Here are some smiles; by Somer Joy; for you today....

Jo Lee

My Man Rocks

2010-09-20T08:47:00.001-06:00

My Man Rocks because he can sport the straw hat; and he is a hottie in it. I love you my handsome man.

Jo Lee

River Run for Orphans 2010

2010-09-19T22:38:00.000-06:00

Every year for the last 3 years our church has helped put on a 5k run to raise money for orphans around the world. Anna decided all on her own that she wanted to run in what is called the "Fun Run" - which is a shorter 1 mile run for kids. She raised money and ran on Saturday; she loves people and loves helping out and I am so proud of her wanting to do this all on her own. She raised $240; and then had a blast running what her friends. Benen unofficial ran in the race - anything Anna does he is determined to try (next year I think we will have him raise money too).

Jo Lee

Thankful Thursday - Labor Day Camping Trip

2010-09-16T08:04:00.000-06:00

This week I am thankful for a little camping trip we got to take over Labor Day Weekend.

I am thankful that Anna got to shoot daddies pellet gun...

...and that Benen also got to shoot it.

I am thankful that we got to enjoy some family time and go walking by the creek.

I am thankful that the kids got to go on a nature survival hike.

I am thankful for my little princesses that loves to talk and listen to people.

I am thankful for my little man that is along for the ride even if he is in his own world.

I am thankful for the trooper that Somer Joy was; even though she does not look to happy in this picture she was awesome all 5 days we were camping.

Jo Lee

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-15T08:30:00.001-06:00

Old School

Jo Lee

My Man Rocks Monday

2010-09-13T08:26:00.001-06:00

Matt took a conceal and carry class this weekend and he rocks for actually doing something that he enjoys and for trying new things. He also rocks because when they were practicing scenarios he just pictured the victim as Anna and knew he had to make every shout count and according the to instructor he did a good job - he is a wonderful protective father.
Jo Lee

Thankful Thursday

2010-09-09T08:31:00.000-06:00

Today I am thankful for....

Updates in Blogger (they are fun to play with).
Rain.
Fall.
Homeschooling and the ways that God is challenging me and using my gifts and talents in it.
Opportunities to grow.
Opportunities to teach my children.
Camping and some family time over the weekend.
An awesome husband and ran me a bubble bath on Monday and let me just relax.
Children.
Time to talk with my little brother. He is an amazing man of God and encouraging to talk to.

Jo Lee

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-08T20:25:00.000-06:00

"Somer Joy" by Kim Beach

Jo Lee

Thankful Thursday

2010-09-02T08:38:00.000-06:00

It is Thankful Thursday and I have internet to actually write a post. Speaking of no internet that is what I am thankful for. We did not have internet for a few weeks and while it was challenging at the same time it should me how much time I actually spend just vegging out on the computer. I num myself by just sitting and staring. So I am thankful for the chance to see were I choose to num myself and not deal with life. I want to deal with and experience everything God has for me each day. I am thankful for a chance to do that today.
Jo Lee