The Glouner Family

Full

2012-01-20T09:04:00.001-08:00

This is another one of those endorphine induced blabberings so buckle up. I am busting it on the eliptial right this very second... trying to balance and type... its quite the chore but I need something to distract me before I embarrasingly belt out whatever is playing on my playlist again. So, let me reign this tyrade in... my life has been full. I often whine and complain about my challenges... issues at work, too many responsibilities,trying to teach a fourth grader math, completely random things I witness, having to live with the consequences of others choices, having to live with the consequences of MY choices, feeling sick ALL the time. BUT, my life is full, full of memories and travels, giggles and kisses, opportunities to serve and learn. My life is full. So my advise is simple, do the things you fear, struggle through the things that make you uncomfortable. Learn from every experience in life and live every second of life in search of purpose. Then in the choas of carpool and leftovers you'll find little moments of bliss.

Pinewood Derby

2012-01-19T15:25:00.000-08:00

Both Drew & Maddi made cars for the pinewood derby this year. They had fun designing and painting them. Drew made an 18 wheeler and Maddi made a red race car. After the race, Drew was awarded his Bear badge and he got to pin the mother's bear pin on my shirt. I am one proud mama! I really admire Drew's hard work in the scout program and I've enjoyed working on the acheivements with him.

Christmas Morning

2012-01-06T14:26:00.000-08:00

Christmas at Uncle Kevins

2011-12-25T14:38:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Maddi

2011-12-25T14:24:00.000-08:00

Our little lady turned three this week! I can't believe my little baby is so old. When I close my eyes, I see my sweet girl swaddled in pink, humming herself to sleep. Yet there is a boucing, smiling little girl dancing around the house. Where has time gone?
At three, Maddi's favorite...
color is brown
song is I am a Child of God
sport is hockey
bestfriend is mommy
book is any pink book
animal is giraffe
movie is Alvin and the chipmunks
food is rice
favorite princess is yellow Belle
thing to do with mommy is school
thing to do with drew is school
thing to do with dad is hug him
is thankful for Jesus birthday
favorite pet is Sam puppy dog

Maddi laughs and sings and dances. She screams when she's angry, squeals when she's happy, and cries when she sees that someone else is sad. She is compassionate and bossy, funny and sensitive. I can't remember life before her and thank God every single day for allowing me to be her mother.
Happy birthday Maddi-moo!

It's Beginning to Look Like Christmas

2011-12-18T10:46:00.000-08:00

Cousins

2011-12-17T10:19:00.000-08:00

Naples Pier Beach

2011-12-16T09:41:00.000-08:00

Naples Pier

2011-12-14T16:31:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving

2011-12-14T15:56:00.000-08:00

Well I'm obviously a little behind, but I thought I'd take a moment to capture our Thanksgiving day. This year, we started a new tradition. I took all of the kids leftover Halloween candy & we made a gratitude turkey. We filled a jar with the candy, pasted turkey feathers along the edges, and added a gobbley turkey face to the front. Before the kids could have a piece of candy, they had to take a feather & write down something they were greatful for. It was fun to hear all of the things that are special to them, and it was nice to keep a spirit of gratitude in our home.We spent Thanksgiving day with grandma & grandpa. We celebrated Grandma's 80th birthday, ate a delicious meal, prayed together, laughed together, and layed around on the beach together. It was an absolutely perfect day.

Wiggins Pass

2011-12-09T21:58:00.000-08:00

The Beach

2011-12-08T14:49:00.000-08:00

Corkscrew Nature Preserve

2011-12-07T09:33:00.000-08:00

And here's what everyone is gawking at... !!!

Can you believe it?? There we were on a little rickety old bridge, and right beneath us were alligators... huge ones, baby ones, sunbathing ones, prowling ones. It was truly humbling and pretty amazing to be so vulnerable in front of such powerful creatures.

Lovers Key State Park

2011-12-01T06:32:00.000-08:00

Photo Card

2011-11-30T12:06:00.001-08:00

Polka Dot Christmas Wishes Christmas

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Sand Castle World Championship at Ft Myers

2011-11-27T19:57:00.000-08:00

Edison Lab & Banyan Tree

2011-11-26T19:27:00.000-08:00

Edison Ford Winter Estates & Gardens

2011-11-25T17:02:00.000-08:00

Call me a nerd, but the Edison Ford Winter Estates (yesssss Edison as in the lightbulb and Ford as in carmaker genius & neighbor friend of Edison) was the coolest place I've ever been. From the beautifully preserved estates and gardens to the tour through Edison's personal laboratory, I was in awe at absolutely every turn. They have a self guided audio tour (you simply hold a cell phone type device to your ear and receive little tidbits of info as you walk around which the kids LOVED), so we could walk around the estates at our own leisure, and they even encourage you to LEAVE the trails in hopes that your curiosity will inspire your own little secret discoveries. The homes were old and georgous with their origional furnishings, but as I walked around, I realized that this old estate wasn't really that old. Our world has dramatically and rapidly changed in the past 100 years, and I was amazed by how closely intertwined the great creative minds were in their research and discoveries. Walking through his lab, I noticed that he had the same basic tools that we use today: pipetts, beakers, bunson burners, and chemicals, but instead of mapping the genome or trying to create antimatter, they were studying exotic plants to create filaments and plastics. I gained a greater respect for science even in it's simplest form and a reverence for the men who have used their brillance and curiosity for a greater cause.

Happy Birthday Grandma

2011-11-24T17:07:00.001-08:00

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Naples Zoo II

2011-11-24T13:57:00.000-08:00

Naples Zoo

2011-11-23T13:16:00.001-08:00

Veterans Day Parade

2011-11-21T17:46:00.000-08:00

Scotts Apple Orchard

2011-11-20T19:40:00.000-08:00

Tate Farms

2011-11-19T17:41:00.001-08:00

WishLists

2011-11-18T10:16:00.001-08:00

Well, this post is mostly just for family, but I wanted to share the kid's wishlists with you. I know it's kind of hard to know what the kids are into when we live so far away from eachother... and my blogging has been so sparse (sorry), so I took the kids to Toys R Us to make some wishlists. (Can you believe it's almost Maddi's birthday / Christmas time again???) We'll be shopping off of these lists also, so please have them scan the registry bar code so we know what's been purchased when we go shopping. This year we're also going to let the kids shop for eachother. Last year I tried to let them shop for eachother, but Maddi tried to get Drew a baby and Drew just knew Maddi wanted a dart gun... riiiight..... Hopefully this year, with this little list in hand, we're sure to see lots of smiles on Christmas morning. Andrew's Christmas list Maddi's birthday / Christmas list

Thankful

2011-11-13T17:20:00.001-08:00

I found this picture in my phone today.... I totally forgot that I'd taken it.
A few months ago Drew wrecked his bike (again) and had to have stitches. When Drew found out the cut was nasty enough for stitches, he began crying.. quietly of course because he's a 9 year old boy that's way too cool for tears. I was talking to the nurse and turned around just in time to see Maddi reach out for his hand and whisper, "its ok brother. I'm here with you."
I am so blessed to have two beautiful, kind, compassionate kiddos. I learn from them every day and it is my constant prayer that I will be the mother that they deserve.

I'll Miss Today Someday

2011-11-02T14:39:00.000-07:00

I just haven't been able to get it together lately. There's always more work to do, more dishes to clean, piles of laundry, dirty floors, messy car seats, bedding to change, things to teach, books to read, patches to sew, meals to make, bills to pay, and every moments adds something new to the list. Last night, when my mind woke me up around 3AM to remind me of all of the things that weren't getting done while I was sleeping, I realized that I will miss this to do list one day. I will miss the chocolate hand prints on the door frames and the juice spills under the table. I will miss bath time with extra bubbles and the sponge bob theme song playing in the background. One day I will miss kisses from peanut butter covered lips and melt downs before nap time. Maybe to do lists aren't so bad after all.

An Officer & a Princess

2011-11-01T13:21:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun Halloween this year. We made decorations, went to the pumpkin farm, went to a trunk or treat and a Halloween carnival, AND went trick or treating around the neighborhood. Our neighborhood really goes all out for the holidays. Every one's house was decorated, masses of kids were roaming the streets, and there were even four wheelers pulling kids on hayrides through the neighborhood. Maddi wasn't bashful at all this year. She ran up to every door and shouted 'trick or treat' then graciously yelled 'thank you so very much' before waddling off to the next door. I love that my children will have these memories forever. I love that we live in such an amazing community, and I love that I got to walk the streets next to my hubby and experience the spooky, the scary, the funny, and the happy together.

A Hike

2011-10-29T21:11:00.000-07:00

A Rocket

2011-10-14T10:19:00.000-07:00

A reason to Smile

2011-10-06T06:09:00.000-07:00

The mood has been pretty glum around here lately. Drew had his tonsils and adnoids taken out last week and he's been in a lot of pain. The added stress of keeping him hydrated, trying to find smooth, mushy things for him to eat, and trying to keep his pain under control while keeping up with my work and other mommy duties has blurred the edges of sanity. When I feel like I want to lock myself in the closet and hide, I think of this precious little smile, and somehow all of the worry washes away. I am a lucky lady.... on the busy days, on the overwhelming days, and on the peaceful days too. I am a better person because I have looked into these perfect eyes and been warmed by her joy.

At 33 months Maddi:
loves princesses
loves to ride her bike with training wheels
loves to dress up with high heels, makeup, and jewelry
plays with cars, trucks, and babies
hands out compliments, "Oh mommy. I love your orange shirt today!"
Asks every day if she can go to the waterpark or the zoo
dances whenever she hears music (at lunch yesterday she said "mom, I need to dance" then stood up in the middle of the restaurant and started shaking her bum to the mariachi music)
Loves to go on walks and hikes
loves animals and babies
wants to know everyone's name... people on TV, strangers at the library, people bagging our groceries. Everyone has a name and she needs to know it.
Loves Mexican food and icecream
Is fascinated by trains and motorcycles
Is compassionate. Drew had stitches on his chin last month and Maddi climbed up into the hospital bed with him when he started crying, held his hand, and whispered to him "it's ok brother. I take care of you."
I feel so blessed to know this little angel. She completes our family, and gives me a reason to smile every single day.

A Day in the Park

2011-10-05T13:33:00.000-07:00

Vehicle Fair at HMCPL

2011-10-01T18:28:00.000-07:00

Birmingham Zoo

2011-09-06T15:23:00.001-07:00

I'm learning

2011-09-02T06:11:00.000-07:00

The fragillity of life has been weighing on me. We've had several random events cramed into the past few days that keep reminding me of our mortality, and this little scripture is just bumping around in my mind...
Ecclesiastes 7:2 "It is better to go to the house of mourning than to go to the house of feasting."
We learn to enjoy life because it has an end. If we never knew the bitter sting of loss or the threat of illness, we may never have the yearning to cherish what we have. I have surrendered to the fact that sometimes we have to learn in ways that we don't want to. I'm surrendering, and I'm beginning to learn.

Lorikeets

2011-08-23T19:07:00.002-07:00

We started the school year off with a trip to the zoo. We fed the Lorikeets while we were there, and Maddi is STILL talking about the birds sitting on her shoulders and playing in her hair. When we first stepped into the bird oasis, we were rushed by a swarm of hungry little friends. When one started nibbling on Maddi's chunky little fingers, I was sure she'd want to leave, but instead she turned toward the little bird and said in her sweetest little southern-mommy voice, "Oh baby, you hungry? Come here. I feed you." I live for little moments like these.

The End of a Summer

2011-08-22T12:17:00.000-07:00

Our summer is over. We are homeschooling again this year, and the kids had a FABULOUS first day. We are completely changing up Drew's schedule. Instead of doing thirty minute segments of every subject, every day, we are enveloping ourselves into one subject each day. Monday's are Math, so we spent hours reviewing multiplication, learning how to multiply in the tens and hundreds places, and doing word problems with calenders and time. I felt like we got so much more accomplished this way and we didn't get bogged down with a mile long to-do list of mini topics. Maddi reviewed counting to ten and then started learning how to add and subtract single digits using gold fish crackers. We also went over our ABC's and letter sounds and even did a little coloring. She is SO HAPPY to do school with Drew this year!
I thought I'd pay some photo homage to our last few weeks of summer break... we spent time with friends & family and even more time chasing around our new pups.

Lately...

2011-08-08T10:40:00.000-07:00

I've been a bit overwhelmed. I feel like I'm constantly chasing time. I enjoy having things to do... kind of. I love having work to do, little ones to take care of, puppies to chase after, and school curriculum to plan, but I miss losing myself in a book, editing photos, and catching myself daydreaming.
Here's a little of what we've been up to lately...

We watched Soul Surfer this week, and I LOVED it. The movie was so real (although Carrie Underwood playing a preacher was kind of cheesy), it went through life's ups and downs and questions and accomplishments. It was so simple, yet profound, and I LOVED it.

I read Bossy Pants by Tina Fey. It reminded me to just laugh at life some times, and I found such comfort in knowing that I'm not the only one that desperately struggles to balance work and family and self.

My newest website addiction is Pinterst. I find cute little craft ideas, decorating inspirations, and recipes all over the internet, and now I can click 'pin it' and it adds it to my virtual pinboard under the category that I select. Seriously. I'm in love. Now I don't have to spend hours searching for that cute craft idea I found a few weeks ago or that yummy recipe I saw yesterday. Oh, AND I can see the cute things that my friends pin also, so it's just a swap fest of cuteness.

I've been checking out google+. I've read about it, I've downloaded it on my phone, I'm pretty sure that I want to like it, but it says I need an invite to use but that they aren't giving out invites right now. What the!?! Anybody else using it?

My honey surprised me with this cell phone a few weeks ago. I must admit, I was a bit weary at first. I loved my iphone, and the thought of transferring all of my contacts and my calendar and my music was less than appealing, but this phone is everything that I dreamed a phone could be. I can get all of my favorite apps from the android market, it has office and pdf software on it so I can work more efficiently from it, sharing info through texting and social media is a breeze, and I can download just about any song for FREE. It has made life so much easier.

My poor little laptop is crippled. The hinges locked up and in a haste I kind of ripped the screen right off. So right this very second, I'm typing in a rather uncomfortable position with a pillow shoved behind the computer to hold the screen up. This just isn't working for me. I work too much on this computer to sit in such a contorted fashion, and I need my work to be mobile. My greatest privilege working at home is to be able to be with the kids while I work, and this ghetto set up isn't exactly portable. Now, to the real issue. I hate computer shopping. I know what I need, but I get sidetracked by all of the glitz and technical glamour. I NEED something that's small, portable, and has office on it. Pretty simple right? I WANT a sleek little ipad, but it's just not easy to type on for hours a day. I'm thinking about a little netbook instead of a laptop. I could throw it in my purse and type while the kids are playing at the park with out carrying a suitcase sized computer bag for a regular sized laptop. The only thing holding me up is that they don't have office on them and the software costs almost as much as the computer. Ridiculous right? So many decisions...

Guacamole. I can't. get. enough.
Here's my recipe:
2 avocados, diced
1 plum tomato, diced
1 half onion, diced
about 3 Tbsp of fresh, finely chopped cilantro
1 lime, squeezed
salt and pepper to taste

Well, I guess that's enough randomness for one post. After lunch maybe I can squeeze in a few second of editing. fingers crossed xx

Movie Night Aftermath

2011-07-27T05:21:00.000-07:00

We had a movie night in our room last night, and this is what I woke up to this morning...

...our HUGE puppy snuggled up next to Drew with his big floppy ears on a pillow. I'm glad EVEYONE enjoyed movie night. :)

Downtown Decatur

2011-07-26T08:27:00.000-07:00

VW Car Show

2011-07-25T15:43:00.000-07:00

Earlyworks Childrens Museum

2011-07-18T06:18:00.000-07:00

Horsey Love

2011-07-14T05:40:00.000-07:00

Fruit

2011-07-13T09:18:00.000-07:00

Some fruit trees that struck my fancy...

German Shepard Pups

2011-07-12T08:48:00.000-07:00

We've been taking care of these precious little puppies while Sean's boss is out of town. The kids have fallen in LOVE and want to adopt one. Aren't they adorable??

My only hesitation is that one day these little fluff balls will grow up to look like this....

... and that's a whole lotta dog to clean up after :/

The Fourth

2011-07-11T08:20:00.000-07:00

This Fourth of July was one of the best ever. We spent the day as a family, had a mini cookout, went firework shopping, watched fireworks, let the kids play with sparklers, walked around Bridgestreet and got a pizza while the traffic cleared, and then caught a surprise round two of fireworks while sitting on a bench overlooking the water and beautiful lights of Bridgestreet. It was perfectly relaxing.

Happy Birthday DREW

2011-07-05T06:27:00.000-07:00

Our little man is now NINE years old! This year we had his birthday party at the Ice Complex, and Drew had soooo much fun!
At NINE, Drew is kind, compassionate, inquisitive, and funny.
He loves riding his bike, playing outside, ice skating, jumping on the trampoline, video games, music, movies, animals, and playing his drums. He enjoys ice cream, chicken, peanut butter cereal and strawberry milk. He wants to be a veterinarian, zoo keeper, or police officer when he grows up, and I enjoy spending every day watching him grow and discover himself and the world around him.
Nine years ago, Drew made me a mother and I will always be grateful to him for allowing me to guide him along life's journey.

A little less of me

2011-06-29T10:44:00.000-07:00

It seems like this blog has been about me, me, and well a little more me lately. Yes, I HAVE been feeling a little introspective, but more importantly, I lost the SD card to my camera. I went to print out some pictures and left it in the machine at CVS. It was a sad day. Well, a new beauty came in the mail today (for about a quarter of the price that I paid for the first one. Thank you amazon.com!!) So I guess you'll read a whole lot less about me and see a whole lot more of these random pictures of daily adorableness.

Dance

2011-06-26T08:24:00.000-07:00

I've been busy cleaning out my DVR... look at these little gems that I found...

It can be so challenging to grow and change and discover yourself within the boundaries of a relationship... to learn to trust and turn outside of yourself for strength and comfort. I love that emotions are universal and that a dance can take me back to a moment in time and remind me how much I've grown. Amazing.

When he did a head stand on her back, I got chills all over. Our soldiers are so courageous, but they stand on the strength, sacrifice, and prayers of their loved ones at home. I love the men and women that fight for our freedom, but I also have a profound respect for the families that give their loved ones for our cause.

So... I'm thinking this season of SYTYCD is going to be AMAZING!! Anybody else as obsessed as I am??

I am Quiet

2011-06-25T05:13:00.000-07:00

I have learned how to quiet myself.... how to still the millions of thoughts and worries that race through my mind and to just let life wash over me. I have finally learned how to live in every moment without planning the next thing or running through my to-do list over and over in my mind.
Ever since our dramatic plane ride where my hubby decided to die for a few minutes, I have just been different. I knew the second that I saw his lifeless face that I would never be the same. I felt myself physically change. In that split second, I experienced a grief so deep that it consumed my future. It was torture; I wanted to step back in time just a few seconds to tell him I loved him, to look into his eyes and have him see me. I wanted time to stop. I didn't want another second to pass because I was terrified of what sorrow it held. I was paralysed yet acting outside of myself screaming for help and trying to revive him. I thank God that I didn't lose my love that day, and I am in awe that a single moment has changed me so profoundly.
I have been given the gift of peace through my experience. I now have a contentment that sits in my soul, and life is so much sweeter because of it. Yes, my dishes don't get washed every day, Sean still doesn't pick up his dirty socks, and the kids still leave their toys on the couch, but that's life. It's my life, and the dirty socks just mean that I have a hubby who wants to snuggle more than he wants to throw his clothes in the basket; we have dirty dishes because we have food to eat, and there are toys on the couch because we have two beautiful children who giggle and play and bring happiness into our home. I have learned to let go of my fears and to fill my mind with the gifts that I have been given. I have finally found peace and it didn't come in the way that I expected. It didn't come from a wise quote or someone mending emotional scars, it came from me realizing the depth of my love and allowing that love to guide my actions.

I am...

2011-06-24T07:15:00.000-07:00

a woman
a mother
shy
curious
a sister
blooming
a dreamer
daring
a cuddler
guarded

a reader
improving
pale
peaceful
open minded
an advise giver
a movie critic
thankful
creative
still

Post-Frumpy

2011-06-23T10:04:00.000-07:00

I have been feeling so frumpy lately. I'm in this really weird, post-baby, almost thirty, awkwardly chunky around the midsection phase. I went through the same thing post-Drew, but it's not making it any easier. When I have a baby, I feel like I don't own my body anymore... like it's being rented out for 10 months. Then I don't recognize my body after birth, and then I fall into this sleep deprived semi conscious state where I can sadly say I get dressed and jump face first into my day without even glancing at a mirror.
Well, Genny threw me a life-vest and I'm no longer drowning in the river of frumpy-mama woe. I am now the proud owner of a chi, I have the haircut of my dreams, and I have a fancy new pedi. I feel like a new woman... a new woman that has rented out her body twice, is still working on her ever illusive abs of steel, is almost thirty, and can cook cornbread and green beans that taste just like grandma's. So maybe new isn't the best adjective, but I am a woman and I'm starting to look in the mirror again and the me looking back at me isn't so bad.

House Guests

2011-06-22T09:13:00.000-07:00

It's been busy here at Hotel Glouner. I love having house guests, so this week has been extra fun. We made a single-day road trip to Kentucky and back and got to spend time with every single one of our siblings!!!! Seriously, a little mini sibling reunion, and it has been the most fabulous week ever. We've watched movies, gone shopping, had pedis and hair makeovers, and unfortunately I didn't have my camera strapped to my face for much of it, but I do have a few pictures...

Genny and Ben's adorable new puppy, Buster

Maddi mid-haircut

Mama Ellen came over and gave Genny and I some good ole' Southern cookin' lessons. We learned how to make cornbread, chicken noodle soup, roast, green beans, chicken salad, fruit salad, and peach cobbler. Lets just say I finally feel like a real Southern woman.

Military Appreciation Concert

2011-06-20T10:17:00.000-07:00

Last week was Military Appreciation Night at Concerts in the Park. I love that we live in a military community. I see men and women in uniform at the grocery store, at work, watching their kids at hockey practice, and when we're out to eat. I love the constant reminder that my freedom is not free. I know our soldiers spend months away from their wives and children. I know they miss holidays and first steps. I know some people think it's just a job, but it's a job that I don't have the courage to do, and I'm glad that my community celebrates their efforts.

Another Blog???

2011-06-14T08:26:00.000-07:00

I love doing little crafty things for the nursery kids at church. Last Sunday I made a little city for the kids to play with, and I brought cars, trucks, trains, tractors, helicopters, and firetrucks. We learned how to share, and because our lesson was on obedience, we learned that we need to obey God not just at church but we need to choose the right everywhere we go. So, I'm thinking of making another blog about our nursery adventures with ideas for activities, crafts, and lessons. What do you think? Is it worth investing the time?

In the Park

2011-06-13T07:23:00.000-07:00

It's summertime which means it's absolutely steamy outside and there are plenty of activities to help us enjoy the squelching heat.
We've spent Monday evening at the concerts in the park...

We also went to classic movies in the park. They showed Never Ending Story. The best 80's movie of all time. I loved every second of it!!

Our giant puppy is an inside puppy again. We love having him inside. I'm just hoping he doesn't eat any baseboards or bathroom doors this time. :/ Here are a few pictures of his chew toy... which although super cute, didn't last very long.

Waterside

2011-06-07T05:21:00.000-07:00

Point Mallard Waterpark

2011-06-06T05:07:00.000-07:00

Hockey

2011-06-05T05:55:00.000-07:00

Drew has started learning how to play hockey. He asked me if he could learn, so I quickly found out that Huntsville has a thriving hockey program. I am so glad that he has found a hobby that he loves, and I look forward to watching him learn and excel. Here are a few pictures from his latest practice...

Little Lady

2011-06-04T05:34:00.000-07:00

Maddi: "Mommy, guess what?"

Me: "What pumpkin?"

Maddi: "You my friend Mommy"

Me: speachless.

I feel so blessed to be a mother, to be entrusted with two beautiful, perfect little spirits to raise in love and respect. Every day, every word, every dirty dish and stinky sock... every moment is a gift.

A family shot

2011-06-03T11:13:00.000-07:00

It's not often that we all make it into the same picture, so this one makes me extra happy!

Love.

2011-06-01T06:21:00.001-07:00

I finally fixed my computer, so be prepared for a barrage of pictures and oodles of catching up.

I guess the best place to start is my little brother's reception. We had a reception here in Alabama for all of our friends and family who couldn't travel the distance for the actual wedding. It was nice to celebrate such a special time in my brother's life. I absolutely love his bride. She brings such love and compassion to our family, and I pray that they can find the same friendship, joy, and confidence that I have found in my marriage.

And a few tips for a successful marriage for prosperity's sake...

A marriage is never 50%-50%. It is 100%, 100%. You must each be completely responsible for your choices.

Be friends first and lovers second.

Tell each other everything. Talk about the weather, talk about your trip to the grocery store, talk about your day at work, and then when you need to talk about things that are hard, it won't be hard at all.

Never fight dirty. Never call names, degrade, or physically hurt those that you love.

You can only control yourself, so instead of placing blame, try first improving yourself.

and finally.....

Before Sean and I were married, we established deal-breakers. We each have one deal-breaker. If we are ever placed in either of these situations, our marriage will end without hesitation; anything and everything else, we will work through. This established respect and security while eliminating the question of 'Can we make it through this?'

I know I'm not exactly a relationship guru... I've only been married 9 years, but I know I have something special and I live every day in a spirit of gratitude.

Coupon Crazy

2011-05-25T06:06:00.000-07:00

My computer is broken which means I can't get the copious amount of pictures off of it, so instead of posting about Ben's reception, hockey practice, or my cute little lady, I'll post a special little message (from my dinosaur computer) for my jealous, money wasting brothers. Read and learn my siblings. :)

A few couponing tips from the slightly-above-average couponer:
(Check local stores for variations in coupon policies, but these are the rules for my local Kroger and Publix)

1. Using coupons on items that are already on SALE yields the greatest saving. Browse your store adds (available in-store, online, and in the newspaper) to find sale items, save your coupons until the item you want goes on sale, and always keep your coupons with you when you're shopping. Yes, I am one of those extra cool ladies that keeps a hot pink, plastic coupon organizer in her purse at all times, and no, I'm never embarrassed to whip it out.

2. Coupons are DOUBLED in value up to $1. So, if you have a $.50 coupon, the store will take an additional $.50 off at the register.

3. You can use both a STORE coupon AND a MANUFACTURERS coupon on each item that you purchase.

4. You can use these two coupons on EACH item that you purchase. For example, if you are buying an item at Publix that is BOGO (Buy One, Get One Free) you can use a manufacturers coupon and a store coupon on the item you're paying for AND another manufacturers coupon and another store coupon on the the free item.

5. Don't buy in bulk when using coupons. You can often get an item for FREE when you buy the SMALLEST size allowed by the coupon and stack your coupons.

6. When shopping at places that give you Bonus Bucks or Cash back such as CVS, don't be afraid to break it up into SEPARATE TRANSACTIONS. Pay for all of the items that accrue bonus bucks. Then when they give you the receipt with the bonus bucks, ring up the rest of your items and immediately use your savings.

7. You can use coupons for MORE THAN JUST GROCERIES. I get coupons for clothes from Old Navy to Banana Republic. I get kids eat free coupons for Chilis, BOGO for museum passes, half price zoo passes, free sandwiches at Subway, and 20% off of DSW. The possibilities are limitless (just google your destination before you leave).

8. Don't fall into the trap of getting an item just because you have a coupon. BE PICKY and only use the ones that you need and that maximize your savings.

9. Always use your STORE DISCOUNT CARD along with coupons to maximize your savings.

10. You can get coupons EVERYWHERE. You know I'm a busy girl and I don't have time to leisurely coupon hunt, and I absolutely refuse to pay a service to cut and send me coupons, so here is a list of ways to get quick savings...
There are TONS of sights, but these are my favorite and completely user friendly)

Get your local Sunday paper.
Check the coupon envelops and fliers that are mass mailed. There's lots of junk, but you can usually score a couple decent coupons.

Get coupons sent to your cell phone at
Cellfire.com
redbox.com (free code text to you every Monday)
blockbusterexpress.com (free code text to you every Monday)

Get coupons loaded directly to your card at:
Kroger.com

Print coupons for free at:
couponmom.com
redplum.com
Iheartpublix.com
target.com

Download apps onto your iphone or android that allow you to browse coupons and add them to your store card with one click.
key ring app
Kroger app

Sign up for coupons to be mailed to you:
publix.com
target.com
pampers.com
groupon.com
and follow links on pages like iheartpublix.com and couponmom.com to have free samples and coupon packets mailed to you.

When ordering anything online, check out retailmenot.com first for discount codes. Never press the check out button before finding a code to enter into the promo code box.

Like your favorite products and coupon groups on facebook to get free coupons.

So, I'm not one of those coupon using, stock piling, I buy cat food even though I don't have a cat because it was cheap kind of people, but I do spend my money wisely. So, hop on the band waggon and start thinking before you hand over your hard earned money.

And to end this marathon post,
an example of my savings....

Cinnamon Toast Crunch $5.49
BOGO - $2.75
Store coupon -$2
Manufacturers coupon $1/2 -$.5
= $.24

Fountain Circle

2011-05-18T18:54:00.001-07:00

I love summer time... the kiss of cold water, the smell of sunscreen, and echoing giggles. Here are a few pictures of our latest trip to the water park downtown....

A Strawberry Pickin Good Time

2011-05-16T09:39:00.000-07:00

I have quite a bit of catching up to do, and I guess strawberry picking is the perfect place to start.

The last few weeks have been filled with visits from loved ones, tons of work, a terribly sick little girl, gifts, yummy food, piles of laundry, an anniversary, playing outside, movies, mounds of dishes, suprises, and time with friends. The last few weeks have been happy, peaceful, and full of smiles. I feel so blessed.

The Great Salt Lake

2011-05-02T14:45:00.001-07:00

I'm a little embarrased to admit that I lived in Salt Lake but never actually went to the Salt Lake. I remember it being described with distain as smelly, salty, and swarming with flies. During this visit, however, we desperately needed a few moments of respite before returning to the airport, so we decided to venture on over to the lake. I must say, we were plesantly suprised. I had no idea how beautiful, how HUGE, and how peaceful the huge mass of water was. We stood in awe at its shores and layed our fears on its beaches. Every breath of fresh, salty air cleansed our minds and filled us with strength. I am so glad that we took the time to explore this little gem, and I am again in awe of the beauty that surrounds us.

A State of Mourning

2011-05-02T11:42:00.000-07:00

Our hearts are so heavy. There is devastation all around us; 211 tornadoes touched ground on April 27th leaving our community marred, hundreds dead, a million homes without power, countless others injured, and entire cities destroyed. We escaped damage to our home, but lived without power for five days. Cold showers, doing dished by hand, and washing clothes in the sink pale in comparison to the grief and destruction that plague so many other families near us. We have each other, our home, and had prepared ourselves in advance with the vital essentials, and since we were unable to go to work because of the power outage, we decided to enjoy the time together. Every moment held greater purpose, time seemed to expand, and gratitude crept into my every thought.

Here are a few pictures from the last few days.

This is a picture (taken from the exact same spot) of the Flint River (above Sept 2010, below Apr 2011) on the day after the storms. We have never seen the river this high. As people began sifting through the rubble, our rivers are creeks began to crest from all of the rain that accompanied the tornadoes. I am so humbled by our world and its ability to create, change, and adapt.

This was the view from our front porch as the terrible storms came through. We knew it was an odd day when we woke up to the tornado sirens going off. Tornadoes usually roll through in the late afternoon, never in the morning. Soon after Sean left for work, I found myself huddled in the closet with the kids, listening to the roaring winds, and praying for grace.

After an entire day of hiding from storm after storm, we were told that the entire North half of Alabama was in the dark and that it would be several days before power would be restored. At first I felt the bitter sting of panic. How do I provide for my family without lights, warm water, phones to call for help, grocery stores, gas stations, banks, or air conditioning? We had just come home from SLC and hadn't done laundry or gone grocery shopping. We spent all of our money on our impromptu visit to the Denver hospital. What were we going to do?? Then I paused. Sean and I had talked about this (thinking of course that it would never happen). We had a plan. I inventoried our nonperishable while Sean hooked up the generator and left for Tennessee to find a place to buy gasoline to sustain us for as long as possible. A few days later, Publix opened using a generator. We rushed over to stock up, not knowing what the future held, and this is what we found in our dimly lit neighborhood grocery store.... I've never seen so many people snatching up groceries!

And a few more pictures of our candle lit Uno games, cornbread on the grill, and breakfast on day 5 cooking on Sean's homemade oven. Seriously, he made an oven with bricks and wood... I'm swooning just thinking about it. :)

I feel so humbled, so greatful, so blessed. My heart aches for those families who were torn apart and the homes that were destroyed so quickly and violently.

If you feel inspired to help but don't know how, check out this website, and to learn how to prepare yourself and your family for an emergency BEFORE the moment of crisis check this out.

Downtown Salt Lake City

2011-04-29T05:03:00.000-07:00

The Reception

2011-04-28T05:07:00.000-07:00

Little Brother's Big Day

2011-04-27T10:24:00.000-07:00

My little brother got married! We are heart broken that we missed the actual ceremony because of our little medical mishap, but we feel so greatful that we got to celebrate with him on his special day.

Sean was so sad that we missed the I do's. I was just happy to FINALLY be there. :)

Changed.

2011-04-26T08:01:00.000-07:00

I have been changed. My life has forever changed. My love has been altered.

I have looked at the lifeless face of the man that I love and fought for him to return to me. Life seems to have slowed... I now appreciate every kiss, savour every word, bathe in every touch.

I really feel too overwhelmed to rehash all of the terrifying details of our weekend getaway, but in a few simple words, Sean's blood pressure bottomed out and he lost consciousness on an airplane. We had to turn the plane around and found ourselves stranded in a strange city and an unknown hospital praying for help and solace.

The single gift that I can take away from this trauma is a new appreciation for the power of prayer. I know I worship a God that loves me and knows me intimately enough to answer a prayer too terrifying for my mouth to utter, too overwhelming for my mind to think. My heart cried out and He answered me.

My life has changed. My appreciation has deepened. I am forever changed.

Crafty

2011-04-18T06:02:00.000-07:00

I have been asked to help with the nursery at church. I am SO EXCITED! I love every single one of those little kiddos and I really enjoy crafting, singing, dancing, and learning with them. Oh, and Maddi is super excited to have me in there :)

This Sunday we did the Easter lesson (kids this age learn in repetition, so we're doing the beautiful Easter lesson twice). We decorated Easter eggs with stickers, danced under a rainbow of fabrics, and shook our jingle bunnies during music time.

Drew has been busy too. Look at this super cool model car he put together!! Isn't it gorgeous??

Water Park

2011-04-13T13:00:00.000-07:00

Today has been full of...

love

smiles

splashes

peace

giggles

music

work

red velvet cupcakes

questions

tears

flip flops

juice boxes

bathing suites

high heels

sunscreen

fajitas

blossoms

pigtales

joy

A nest.

2011-04-11T07:16:00.000-07:00

The kids found this lovely little miracle in the backyard while they were playing. Isn't it beautiful???

A Little More on the Mountain

2011-04-09T17:29:00.000-07:00

Burritt on the Mountain

2011-04-08T08:11:00.000-07:00

Face First

2011-04-05T13:16:00.003-07:00

This story begins like most others.... The lovely spring weather was finally here. Sean and I BOTH had a day off, and we went searching for some family fun. Burritt on the Mountain was having a Spring Celebration, so we decided to go check it out. We hopped out of the car and went inside to buy some tickets. While I waited in line, Sean and the kids walked around the gift shop. Maddi, politely crossing her arms so that her curious little fingers wouldn't touch anything, caught a glimpse of brother and went toddling over toward him. On her way toward him, she managed to trip and land on a series of shelves. Unfortunately, her face broke her fall. Daddy quickly scooped her up and I patiently waited while daddy cuddled her... until I saw blood. At that point I may or may not have yanked her out of his arms and ran out of the building to a place where I could inspect her from head to toe. Sadly, my mommy anxiety only got worse from there. I am usually cool as a cucumber, but when my babies are involved I go a little crazy. Let's just say that the long ordeal ended with me putting on a lead dress and climbing into a radiation emitting CT machine to try and calm down my strapped-down,terrified little lady. Yep... I am one of THOSE moms... those crazy, don't come between me and my baby, ferocious moms.

Well, our no good, terrible, very bad, sad day that began like any other is now over. Let's just hope that the rest of Spring brings us more fun and adventure and a little less distress.

Texture

2011-04-03T19:06:00.001-07:00

Maddi has been a little jealous lately of Drew's one-on-one school time. In a mischievous, jealous rage, she has written in my novels, torn magazines and worksheets, and drawn on the countertops and the piano! Yes, on my piano!! After the world's longest timeout and having her scrub the piano and counters clean, I've decided to started finding little lessons for her to do with us during school time. Yesterday while Drew tackled the order of operations, the little lady learned about texture and color. And it was a HUGE success......

Hockey game

2011-03-27T16:07:00.000-07:00

Sean e-mailed me this video of Maddi watching a hockey game. She appears to be quietly entertaining herself, oblivious to the world around her, until they start playing music....

http://s1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee514/Seanglouner/?action=view¤t=VID_20110325_201944.mp4

An excuse for family time

2011-03-22T13:20:00.001-07:00

We celebrated my beautiful cousin's wedding last weekend, so we got to spend extra time with family. (excuse my busted up lip... Maddi lovingly whacked me with a toy) I loved seeing my sisters, meeting my new sister-in-law, spending time with my little brother, and having a weekend off to spend with the hubby and kids.

Downloads from the phone

2011-03-21T08:54:00.001-07:00

Maddi LOVES icecream. Any flavor, any time of day, she's not picky.

The weather has been AMAZING. I love the in-between-seasons when it's not too hot and not too cold. We're having school outside, eating lunch outside, playing outside, and I'm loving every moment.

My bestfriend from Middle School died suddenly last week. As a family, we are much too familiar with death, but this concept of someone that is MY AGE dieing is so foreign to me. I still haven't been able to wrap my mind around her absense.

I always keep this picture on my phone. I pretty much always wish I was at the beach.

Maddi puts EVERYTHING in the fridge. I never know what I'm going to see when I open the door. Yesterday it was a baby, the day before a phone, today it's sunglasses. No matter what it is, it always makes me smile.

I take Maddi to Little Learners at the library once a week. We found this little gem in the parking lot last week. I wonder if they bring these rocks everywhere with them or if they just hope they'll find a little something to hold down the old tarp when they get there.

We went to the Huntsville Art Museum last week. They have a cute little hands-on kids exhibit right now, and a section where you can walk through the history of art. It was pretty fun.

Circus

2011-03-17T05:21:00.000-07:00

Chattanooga Choo Choo

2011-03-16T05:41:00.000-07:00

Chattanooga Nature Center Reflection Riding

2011-03-15T05:30:00.000-07:00

Chattanooga Nature Center Tree Houses

2011-03-14T05:25:00.000-07:00

Chattanooga Nature Center

2011-03-13T05:18:00.000-07:00

Chattanooga Zoo Barn Animals

2011-03-12T05:26:00.000-08:00

Chattanooga Zoo at Warner Park

2011-03-11T05:04:00.000-08:00

This zoo has come a long way since we visited last. They've added exhibits, remodeled buildings, and have a bunch of new animals. Maddi LOVED the chimps and the coyotes. Drew liked the tarantula and snakes, and I loved the hiking trails that we shared with free-roaming peacocks, the tamarins, and a new animal I've never seen... the capybaras.
To make the day even better, the whole adventure only cost $8 (two & under are free + I had a BOGO coupon) Here's a link to the coupon if you're up for a road trip: http://www.chattanoogafun.com/outdoors/member.asp?id=210

Spring

2011-03-10T05:10:00.000-08:00

If you've never been thrilled to the very edges of your soul by a flower in spring bloom, maybe your soul has never been in bloom.
Terri Guillemets

Creative Discovery Center Let's Play Doctor

2011-03-09T05:05:00.000-08:00

Creative Discovery Center Market

2011-03-08T05:00:00.000-08:00

Creative Discovery Center Let's Dig

2011-03-07T05:53:00.000-08:00

Creative Discovery Center Spash Zone

2011-03-06T05:48:00.000-08:00

Creative Discovery Center Outdoors

2011-03-05T05:42:00.000-08:00

Creative Discovery Center Art & Crafts

2011-03-04T05:38:00.000-08:00

Beauty

2011-03-03T05:31:00.000-08:00

Everything has its beauty, but not everyone sees it.
Confucius

On the Road Again

2011-03-02T11:50:00.000-08:00

Loved

2011-03-01T16:01:00.000-08:00

These little beauties are still hanging around from Valentines Day, and every time I see them I remember that I'm loved.

Colors

2011-02-25T08:30:00.001-08:00

Seventy and Sunny

2011-02-18T05:54:00.000-08:00