Little Moments

Mar

2011-10-04T11:00:00.003-05:00

"You pull the best from me. For all the world to see"

Trisha Yearwood

SUMMER BUCKET LIST 2011

2011-06-09T09:11:00.011-05:00

So my sister is doing a summer bucket list of 100 things. I liked the idea but thought i would slim mine down to 50 things and post them on my blog so that i would remind of them often. I have until the last day of August to complete the list, if i finish it i will put a line through it.

Here we go!

~~Go camping with Liv and Marty~~
Paint a picture on canvas
Update my Ipod
Have a girls day with my niece Emma
Take Liv to the zoo
Catch fireflies in a jar
~~Take off for a day in Michigan with Liv and Mar and explore the UP~~
Organize my Scrapbooking area
~~Organize my Ebay area~~
Make 10 tutus
~~Read the book of Job in the bible~~
Organize all my landscape photograph's and pick out my 10 best and enter one into a contest each month. (June enter in Midwest Living)
Pick out photos with Mar for our family wall and for above our entertainment center.
Play kick the can
Blow up UD photo for kitchen
Dive off the pontoon
~~Not buy anything except essentials (gas, food) for a week~~
Put together collage that has been sitting in the basement
~~Paint livs room~~
Go on photo trip with Laura
Take a sewing class
Finish writing in Liv baby book for up to this point, pictures included
Take a photo of all the little cousins on both sides of the family for Livs room
~~Let Livy have (3) play dates with friend of her choosing~~
~~Go to a reenactment~~
~~Take Liv to the library~~
Go to an Amish community
~~Go to Starved Rock Park~~
Mail a letter to a servicemen overseas
Volunteer at Feed'em Soup
Buy lemonade from every child lemonade stand that i see
Take Liv to the nursing home to say hi
Give myself a pedicure
~~Read the manual to our video camera and take more video of Liv~~
Pick out trees for the side of the house
Read a book about the Civil War
~~Talk to sisters about Christmas and possible other ways to do gifts~~
Organize shutterfly albums
Eat at Francesca's in St. Charles
Make a necklace
~~Go to Warren with my Dad to take pictures of where he grew up~~
Have a "date" with my mom
Get a quote about moving laundry room to basement
Re-design my blog
Have Liv make a thank you gift for KO
Do something for Gina, Chloe
~~Dance in the rain with Olivia~~
Take Olivia to the Gazebo where she wants to put on a show
Lay on a blanket underneath the stars with Marty and Liv
~~Have the paci fairy come~~

Sounds like alot, but i think i can do it!

My Sepsis Story Published

2011-06-07T09:51:00.000-05:00

My "story" about Sepis has been published on the Sepsis Alliance website. Checkout:)

http://www.sepsisalliance.org/faces/heidi_ottilie/index.php

All i hope is that it helps one person....

I will Cast all my Cares Upon You...

2011-04-25T13:52:00.001-05:00

We had a fun willed weekend with all the Easter activities and seeing family, but I will blog about that later. I have to get this down in writing before I forget.

Last night after we got home from a full weekend of going and going. It was time for Liv to go to bed. We did our usual night time routine of bath, Noodle and Doodle, brushing teeth, saying prayers, reading a book, find her flashlight and blanxs, and giving kisses. Usually you leave and Liv is out like that. However, the past few days she has been unusually scared of the Easter Bunny (more to come on that later) and Monsters. So she has been asking one of us to “snuggle” her for a “minute”. I said I would lay with her for a little bit. She kept asking me about monsters and I would tell her monsters aren’t real they are pretend. But to her they are very real because she “saw one in our backyard, and it was big and white and furry, and it laid an egg, and then she touched the egg, and now she is sick with the flu!” (She has an awesome imagination). She continued to talk about her fear and I just couldn’t get her to relax. So I said:

“Liv, do you believe in God?”

“Yes, mama”

“Did you know that if you believe in God and love him in your heart then he is with you ALL the time. He will always be there listening and protecting you.”

“I didn’t know that!”

“So that means you can talk to him anytime you feel scared and want to ask for him to be with you, or remember how sometimes we ask him to give you patience and he does or you can just talk to him about your day too”

“Yes, and he gave me more kisses the other day to when I ran out!”

“He did! Well you won’t be able to see him, but he is listening when you talk to him; maybe so he hears your little voice you can say “Dear God” and then talk to him about what you want to say.

“Where does he live? In clouds with Grandpa Bill and the birds?”

“Yes, he does. Do you want to talk to him right now while Mama is here?

My eyes may have got a little teary at this point.

“Dear God, will you protect me from the monsters and keep me and Jingle Bear safe and make the monsters go away?

Silence.

An Airplane flies over are house with a big swishing noise

“Mama I heard him, I heard God making the monsters go away!” You could feel her body relax.

“Yea, I heard it too Liv. Are you ready to go sleep now? “

“Yes, you can go, but can I stay up a little while and talk to God”

“Sure, honey”

For 45 MINUTES I listen to my three year old talk to God on the monitor. She asked for protection, for no more monsters, and even not to pee her pants. Oh and for Mama to let her have an m & m. I think for the first night in awhile Livy went to bed feeling at peace and safe. My heart overflows with joy and happiness.

Here are some lyrics to one of my favorite songs; I use to sing as a child, I think I will teach it to Liv soon”

“I lay all of my burdens,

Down at your feet,

And anytime I don’t know

What to do

I will cast all my cares

Upon you.”

So Far Behind!

2011-04-22T09:28:00.007-05:00

Wow! I have a lot of updating to do! I will have to come back and add pictures as i haven't had time to down load them from camera.

1. In the middle of March I went on a trip Charleston, South Carolina with my friend Nicole for 4 days! We had so much fun! Of course I missed Liv and Marty, but this was something i needed to do for myself to prove that I could go away and live in the moment. We did exactly that! One of my goals while i was there was to get so awesome photographs. I did! I loved the old architect there and trying out my different filters. We did and saw so many things, we went to the Magnolia Plantation, A WWII ship (Cole is a WW II re-en-actor), saw dolphins, laid on the beach, shopped Charleston, went on a Ghost tour, watched the stars from the beach, and so much more. It was a wonderful getaway! Marty and I have been together 14 years now and i have never gone away without him....something i needed to do to cross of my list:)

took this from the middle of street downtown Charleston Nicole was freaking out!

2. While i was Charleston my sister and my brother-in-law had their Baby. Heather and Aaron welcome Emily Ann into the world on March 20. She was about a month and half early and is still in the hospital, but doing well. I am so thankful that Heather and Emily came through this okay. God does wonderful things!

My sweet sister and my little cupcake Emily

3. By the end of March i can say with great excitement that Olivia is OUT OF DIAPERS! Yes! My goal was to have out by three and she is diaper free all day everyday. What a cost savings!

4. On Liv's Birthday we held two parties for her. First a "friends" party. This was her first one and she wanted a hippo theme. Mama worked hard to make a hippo cake and find and make everything as hippos as she could. She invited five of her closet friends Lindsey, Jackson, CJ, Simone, and her friend Ava S. (who couldn't make it, but her mommy did). We had fun playing games, and doing a craft. Instead of having the children bring gifts for Liv we asked that the bring canned good so we could donate then to our local food pantry. This way we could teach Liv that birthdays aren't about getting but giving also. Liv was at the house when the volunteers from feedemsoup.org . came to pick up the food. She was happy that she was going to be able to give kids that didn't have food some of hers. Right after her kids party we had her family party with Grandma's and Grandpa's and Aunt and Uncles. She loved it and spending time with her family.

Mama tried to make a Hippo Cake...she did her best

Three years! So happy!

5. Last weekend I ran my first ever 5K race! Wow! and i finished ( i did walk some)! I wouldn't have been able to do it without the support of my co-workers and Marty and Liv. Thanks to them i was able to accomplish one goal that has been on my list since i started the recovery process. We think we are going to run another one in the fall. I am excited to start training and take what i learned from my first and apply it to this one.

My Co-Workers and I preparing to run the Fox Trot!

Well i think i have caught you up. I will add pics later!

Things I've done

2011-04-20T10:51:00.000-05:00

I've done everything in bold below.
Now you can copy this on to your own blog & bold the things you’ve done!

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland (Disney World)
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightening storm
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted, sketched
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been a passenger on a motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Kissed a stranger at midnight on New Year’s Eve
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Got a tattoo
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee

Olivia is 3 today!

2011-04-02T00:00:00.001-05:00

Dear Olivia,

Where has time gone. It seems like just days ago, i was holding you so carefully in my arms worried if you were too hot or too cold. Breathing in the scent of you, the scent of baby. A scent i had long dreamed of and still sometimes use "baby" shampoo on you just to smell it. A scent so pure, that i believe that you must have been sent from heaven just for me and your dad.

You have grown so much in the past year. You are now a little girl, no longer a baby. You sure are sweet and make mommy and daddy laugh all the time. You are full of life and energy. You love to talk and speak so well for your age. I love to have little conversations with you about just everyday things. You rarely get in trouble, because you are a good listener and when you do get in trouble you understand it. Then you may say "Will you forgive me?" and my heart overflows. You are considerate of others, like when we go shopping you say "excuse me" all the time to the other shoppers and if you hear a baby crying in the store you demand that we go find the baby to make sure he or she is okay and have not "lost their mommy". You are friendly and will speak to just about anyone and when someone babysits you or you go to one of your family members to spend the night, you are a champ!

At this age you enjoy being read to. Your favorite books are In Grandma's Arms, God loves you Nose to Toes, and The Hungry Caterpillar. You like to use your imagination and are always in your kitchen cooking daddy something. You love to color and draw, just last night you and I were making a car out of cardboard box we got in the mail and it was getting close to bedtime you said "Just five seconds mommy, I have a few more details to do, is that OK?" You do watch some TV you favorite shows are Callilou, Sesame Street, and Imagination Movers. Princess and Queens are with you everyday and sometimes a dragon!

This past year you have learned SO much! You help mommy and daddy in the kitchen, setting the table and helping pick up. You are out of diapers. You brush your teeth, and you can say your prayers by yourself. You know you ABC's and can count to ten and sometimes higher. You know how to put on chap stick over and over and over again! Putting a puzzle together is no big deal for you and you have learned your address, full name, and the town you live in. Over the winter you learned to ride your bike in the basement.

Just some stats so i don't forget. You weigh 27 lbs. You had your first REAL haircut this past year. You are a very picky eater and we are still trying to get the paci fairy to come.

Liv, EVERYDAY i thank God that you are my daughter. You bring me so much joy. I hope as the years go on you will keep the qualities that that you have today that i so admire. Continue to "be kind", kindness is more powerful than you know. Your dad and i often talk about who you are most like. I think you are a good mix of both of us - we couldn't be prouder.

Happy Birthday Little Girl!

Love Always,

Mama

Potty Party!

2011-03-30T13:01:00.000-05:00

Well i think we can say with much confidence that Livy is done with the diapers! Yeah! We just started putting her in big girl pants one weekend and it took off from there. We are so proud of her and so happy for US! Even a little bout with a cold didn't throw her off. My goal was to have it done by the time she was three, mission accomplished!

The ABC'S of me

2011-03-17T14:26:00.000-05:00

I'm copying this from someones else's blog! Just an FYI

Age: 33

Bed size: Queen

Chore you hate: Mopping the floors

Dogs: No, but I like them

Essential start to your day: a pop

Favorite color: yellow

Gold or silver: Silver or white gold

Height: 5'

Instruments you play: Um, well Liv has me play the Maracas ALOT!

Job title: Lab Secretary

Kids: Little Livy.

Live: Or is it Memorex? Or did you mean live? That answer would be in a house.

Mom’s name: Sally

Nicknames: Heids, Mama, Lou, Kins, Spoon, Lu Lu

Overnight hospital stays: I say about 45 -augh!

Pet peeve: When there is water left on the floor after a bath of shower

Quote from a movie: "I am nothing special; just a common man with common thoughts, and I've led a common life. There are no monuments dedicated to me and my name will soon be forgotten. But in one respect I have succeeded as gloriously as anyone who's ever lived: I've loved another with all my heart and soul; and to me, this has always been enough." - Noah from the Notebook

Righty or lefty: Righty.

Siblings: two older sisters

Time you wake up: 7:00am

Underwear: I have some.

Vegetables you dislike: radishes

What makes you run late: Nothing, i don't l like to be late.

X-Rays: I'm not sure

Yummy food that you make: Potato Chip Casserole

Zoo animal favorite: The bears

Quote of inspiration

2011-03-17T08:21:00.002-05:00

“If you judge people you have no time to love them.”

― Mother Teresa

I Live for Little Moments Like this...

2011-03-16T11:19:00.000-05:00

We are driving home from daycare, Liv and I. Liv starts to take of her shoes:

Me: Olivia, don't take off your shoes until we get home please.

I hear a plop on the floor. There goes one shoe.

Me: Olivia Eileen! I told you NOT to take off your shoes until we get home.

Dead silence in sues.

We get home, i get out and then go around the side of the car to unbuckle her and get her out.

Liv: Momma, will you forgive me?

My heart swells.

Me: Of course i forgive you, but DON'T do it again.

I live for little moments , like that.

In Deep

2011-02-28T10:53:00.004-06:00

Today i flooded our bathroom ( i overflowed the sink!) , thank God for an understanding husband! I am so lucky.

Our Funny Valentine

2011-02-15T19:07:00.001-06:00

Hero's come in every shape and size

2011-02-15T19:03:00.003-06:00

Liv and Cole

Some little girls want to grow up and be a ballerina, or a actress, or a doctor, or even a princess. Our little girl wants to grow up to become a firefighter princess! For the past few months Liv has been obsessed with firefighters. Asking questions all the time, wanting to know how she can be one. Luckily for us my friend Cole has a cousin, Lindsey who is a firefighter with the Hampshire Department. So on Valentine's day Mar had to work; so Liv, Cole, and I had the opportunity to visit Lindsay at work. Liv was so excited! She proclaimed to me the other day that "All i want to be is a hero"! So i thought this would be right up her alley.

Liv in the Firetruck

We arrived at the fire station and Liv got a hat and a bracelet. She was shy at first with Lindsey, but slowly she let her guard down. She got to sit in the ambulance, the back of the ambulance, and a fire truck. She tried on Lindsey's boots and Lindsey also showed her what a firefighter would look like if they had to come save her so she wouldn't be scared. Livy asked some questions like "Do you have kitties?" and out of the corner of her eye she spotted a cupcake and asked "May i have a cupcake?"

Livy looking up at the ladder truck

Overall she loved it, and Lindsey is her "new" best friend. Hero's do come in every shape and size - my little one was already MY hero but Lindsey is a beautiful who became my daughters hero that day, she dedicates her life to saving people and that is really special.

Oh My!

2011-01-19T13:06:00.002-06:00

This little girl of ours amazes us everyday with the things she says, here are a few of my personal favorites of the recent weeks -

Driving to Daycare

Liv - "Mama, all this snow just breaks my heart."

Liv - "Does Auntie Amy have a heart in her belly?"

At Home

We are trying to potty train Liv and she will sit awhile before she does anything

Daddy - "We got to go Liv, Mama has to take you to daycare.

Liv - "Yes, Sir" as she hops off the potty.

Livy wanted one of my special pens and grocery list to to draw on, so i gave it to her

Liv - "Your precious" (this isn't the first time she has told me that)

On the phone with my mom

Grandma - "My leg is getting better!"

Liv - "That is great news!"

In a store

Liv - "Do you have hair?"

Cole (my friend) - "Yes."

Liv - "Do I have hair?"

Cole -"Yes".

Liv to random man walking by - "Hey man, do you have hair?!"

Man - "Yes, yes i do."

She is is unique! I love it!

Happy Feet!

2011-01-14T11:19:00.002-06:00

Yea! I have reached a goal and my feet and heart are happy.

This morning as I was taking a shower before work i looked down and I SAW MY FEET! Do you know how long i have been waiting for this? I couldn't believe it, it made me so happy and i had to tell Mar as soon as i saw him. He laughed and said "What you couldn't see your feet before"? Well actually no - and the story goes -
I carried a beautiful baby girl in my stomach for 9 months so of course my stomach grew. I had complications (we all the know the story and if you don't and want to know, comment me and I will tell you), I developed a large Hernia so once again my feet were missing, I was sad and anxious and put on meds to help me; all that have the side effect of weight gain, no more feet. I was angry so I ate, whatever i wanted - i deserved it right?, after all we went through. Bye-Bye feet.

Then in September I was released to start Physical Therapy at Creative Therapeutics . I love it, i feel a strengthening in my body and have had so much of my chronic pain go away. I slowly started to feel like i could actually move again. I borrowed a book from my physical therapist about eating to heal pain and Marty ended up reading it too. He read about how you could reduce the damage you have done to your arteries and wanted to try a new diet. I was game, so for the past 14 days we have been non- meat eaters. I don't think it something we will do forever, we may eventually add chicken and fish back into our diet once or twice a week, but for now, we love it! We have been trying all sorts of new foods and really try hard at this. I have found some recipes that i love and the funniest thing is that neither one of us really miss meat? It is nice that we are doing it together too. We both have more energy and my body has changed and I have lost some weight. On top of all this, Marty asked if i wanted to join him at the gym (he has always worked out), so now I am going to the gym too. I think this all contributed to my happy feet!

I am writing here two of my goals, so all those that love me can hold me accountable -
I want to loose 25 pounds.
~~I want to run a 5K. Did 4/16/11~~

Her Honey

2010-12-22T12:27:00.000-06:00

She was playing in her play kitchen and i said

"what are you making?"

her: "muffins for my honey"

me: "who's your honey"

her: "daddy"

30 Days of Me - Day 30 THE LAST ONE

2010-12-09T11:08:00.001-06:00

This is the last one. I know i got so far behind, i wanted to do this is 30 consecutive days! Thanks to a blogger i follow Ashley for bring me to this journey of self discovery and fun! It was a blast and I look forward to doing something like it in the future.

So last day is - A Picture.

This is one of my favorite pictures of all time that I have taken. It is from my home town, it reminds me of simple times, simples pleasures. It remind of the values i was brought up on. It reminds of friends and family. It really reminds me of really good Sundaes!

30 Days of Me - Day 26

2010-12-09T11:00:00.000-06:00

Something that stresses you out.

Does it have to be just one thing?

Holidays / making sure everyone is happy
Potty Training
Deadlines
Being unorganized
Money
Doctors
Splitting Liv time evenly between her extended family
Liv not wanting to eat anything besides chicken and yogurt
Making sure everyone is happy with decisions i make

That's about it.

30 Days of Me - Day 27

2010-12-09T09:26:00.000-06:00

Pets

Sometime around Easter last year Livy was watching her favorite show Max and Ruby and there was an episode about a fish. Livy looked at me with excitement in her eyes and said "I need that". I couldn't resist. Marty and I had had Betas before and new they were long living and easy to maintain. I called Marty and told him the story and how badly i wanted to get Liv a fish. He said it was fine as long as he didn't have to clean the bowl. Off we went. Livy picked a blue female Beta. We brought her home and I asked Livy what she wanted to name her fishy - her reply "Cutie". So this cutie, she hangs in in Livs room and Livs and I both enjoy her.

We can't have cats because I am allergic and we can't have a dog yet because i am allergic - so for right now cutie does the job for our pet department.

30 Days of Me - Day 26

2010-12-09T09:20:00.001-06:00

Oh my! So behind!

A picture of my family

These are pictures of my family and our everyday home life. Mar and Liv make me a lunch to take to work almost every morning. How sweet are they!

As you can see someone also likeS to get a little taste of the peanut butter.

No this isn't a posed picture. But this is us. My little family. We are simple, loving, and just "us" And it makes sense that I am not in the picture since i am usually behind the camera.

30 Days of Me - Day 29

2010-12-07T11:53:00.000-06:00

I know my days are all out out sorts, i will edit them one day.

Wishes, what kind of wishes? The ones that Santa Claus can bring or the ones that you know can come true? I will do five of each.

A Sewing Machine
A nice trip with my little family
Snow on Christmas
A day for Heidi
A cleaning lady!!

1. The courage to change by bad habits

2. For Liv to live a fun and memorable childhood

3. For Mar to be happy

4. A new reliable car

5. Less struggle

30 Days of Me - Day 22

2010-12-03T10:46:00.001-06:00

Behind Again! I should be finished with this!

Something you've learned -

LIFE IS SHORT, BE THANKFUL, BE KIND, BE LOVING, BE FORGIVING, BE YOU.

Photo By Laura Pfaff

30 Days of Me - Day 21

2010-11-24T11:12:00.005-06:00

Woah! I am getting so behind on this. We have had so much going on that I forgot to post, and some posts that I had scheduled to post came up, some now i am all out order!

Favorite Vacation

Obviously, I love any vacation I take to the U.P. of Michigan, it is a vacation but it is also my second home. So I will pick my other favorite vacation.

Our TEN day road trip west. It was before we had Liv and Marty and I decided to hop in a car (a rental) and drive west. Our goal was to get to Yellowstone. Well that we did - just us, some clothes, a cooler and a tent.

Our first stop was in Dyersville, IA home to the Field of Dreams . I know so far from our home! We set up camp at a wonderful campsite by a brook. It was beautiful. I will say that it was challenging to set up a tent in complete darkness, while trying not wake the other campers with our late arrival. The next morning we headed out to the Field of Dreams movie site. It was pretty cool, something that I had always wanted to do and something Marty wanted to revisit.

Marty walking into the corn

Loved this sign

After our short visit at the Field we headed North West, it just so happened that Aunt Beth had called a few days before to tell us that they were going to be Lake Okoboji, IA for a little family reunion. It was not really out of our way so we decided to make a stop over. We found a great campsite by the lake, even though we could have stayed in the guest house (but we were determined to camp). We spent time with family members, many that i was meeting for the first time. We enjoyed a barbeque and some time on the boat, and at the little coffee shop owned by some of Marty's relatives. We also went out for a night of the town with Uncle Bob, who you are guaranteed to have a good time with:)

Some of the Ottilie Family

Next we head off to South Dakota! It was quite the drive and we began to get tired. We were so tired we almost passed over the Badlands, and Wall Drug, and the Corn Palace. I am so glad that we didn't, the bad lands were amazing! We were driving through them and it started to thunderstorn, it was one of the neatest things i have ever seen

Wall Drug

The Badlands National Park

That night we camped at a little campsite near Mount Rushmore because we wanted to get an early start. We woke, packed it up and head to see Mount Rushmore. It was breathtaking. I have seen it so many times in pictures, but to see it in person was thrilling.

A view take laying down on the ground looking through a crevice between two rocks

After seeing Mount Rushmore we had to see Crazy Horse! It was a short drive and was equally breathtaking. Marty and hope to go back in our lifetime to see the finished project.

Crazy Horse

After a long day we had to drive through the Big Horn Mountains. It was really my first sight of a mountain and I was a little nervous as we manipulated the narrow winding road! However, it was a sight that I will never forget.

Here we go!!!!

After our drive through the mountains we found my favorite campsite yet in Gray Bull. I loved the little town. It rained that night as we slept in our tent and found it so peaceful and my heart was full of anticipation for trip to Yellow Stone tomorrow.

We woke and had breakfast before entering the park. As we entered the park i was just so excited, Mar was excited! We saw a buffalo - holy cow you would have thought we saw a pot of gold, little did we know we would see many buffalo throughout our trip, and some very up close and personal. We did and saw everything one does at the park. Looking back we wished we would have spent one more day there.

At a geyser

The Canyon

Leaving Yellow Stone we headed down to Jackson Hole by the way of the Grand Tetons. Holy Cow, were the amazing. They reminded me of the mountains you see in The Sound of Music. We were in awe!

Grand Tetons

We made our way to Jackson Hole - a cute town and ate a fun bar called the Cowboy Bar. Believe it or not I had the best Philly Cheese steak ever, isn't that weird? We walked around for a bit and took it all in. Then we were off to Rock Springs, so we could get half way to Denver by nightfall. The drive between Jackson and Rock Springs was mesmerizing! I have decided that is where i want to retire:) It was perfect, Mar, Me, and the little tumble weeds blowin' in the wind. Not a car in sight. I was in love. We made it to Rock Springs and found a campsite at a KOA. We rested well and got ready for our trip down to Denver.

I wasn't sure why we picked Denver, but we did - it was the 4th of July and I think we wanted to be near a big city. It was pretty and we checked out some of the places that Marty's mom remembered from when she was in college there. We ate a TJI Fridays, back to reality i guess. We looked and looked for a campsite in mountains, but since it was the fourth of July weekend we didn't have any luck. Marty wanted to get a hotel room. I freaked! I cried! I thought if we have camped for 7 days straight there was no way i was going to break the streak and get a hotel room, go into air conditioning, get all good and clean and then go back to camping. No way! So we found site on the east side of Denver and it was good.

We left Denver and had to decide if we wanted to drive back through Nebraska or Kansas, we decided Kansas. It was pretty flat, but I did convince Mar to stop at the world largest prairie museum.

The biggest barn in Kansas

Me at the one room school house at the Praise Museum

We drove on and ending up camping in Wilson, KS. We ate at this neat little place called Snack Shack. We camped right on a lake and in the morning when we woke we took a quick but needed bath in it.

On we go to IOWA CITY. We stopped at my sisters for a quick shower and then we went out to eat at The Edge. My sister and her husband tried to convince us to stay at there house but once again, i wasn't going to break down on the tent thing! So we camped at Lake Coralville. Too funny.

We made it home, it was a great trip with so many memories made. A few weeks after we returned home, we found out that we were expecting a little one. So it was our last hurrah, before little Liv came. We can't wait to take her back to some of the places we visited, and yes next time we will still be camping!

30 Days of Me - Day 25

2010-11-23T00:00:00.003-06:00

Put your ipod on shuffle, first 10 songs

Wow, what a mix!

Carrying Your Love with Me - George Strait
Black - Pearl Jam
Better Days - Faith Hill
I Remember - Kenny Chesney
Strait Line - Silver Chair
Fade into You - Mazzy Star
Tripping Billies - Dave Matthews
The Promise - Tracy Chapman
Where I Go - Natalie Merchant
Today - Smashing Pumpkins

I was surprised to see that that no Tim McGraw songs came up, i have almost everyone of his songs on my Ipod! Some of the song that came up are from very different parts of my life - Where I go, Fade into You, Today are from High School; Carrying your love with Me, The Promise are from Early College; Tripping Billies is from later on in College and the rest are more recent.

I liked this one it was fun!

30 Days of Me - Day 20

2010-11-22T09:41:00.001-06:00

What is in your makeup bag?

I use to be rally into makeup, but as i have gotten older the thrill of it has faded out.
My makeup bag contains:

Toothpaste
Toothbrush
Dental Floss
Eyeliner (black, white, and brown)
Mascara (brown/black)
Blush
Hairbrush
Ponytails
Contact lens solution

Pretty boring, but Liv thinks it is the greatest. She always asks "May i look at your stuff?"

30 Days of Me - Day 19

2010-11-22T09:36:00.002-06:00

Picture of Yourself

This is me tired, but thankful.

30 Days of Me - Day 18

2010-11-22T09:26:00.000-06:00

Nicknames -

I have a lot of nicknames ( i will do the top 5), and most of them make no sense what so ever.....here we go!

Kins (Mar's nickname for me)
Lou (my family's nickname for me)
Little One
Heids
Happy

30 Days of Me - Day 19

2010-11-17T23:55:00.002-06:00

Something you miss ---

My girls "The Poukas". We have all just grown up and lead our own lives now, I still see them from time to time, but not an often as it use to be. I love you girls, thanks for all the ways you have made my life better.!

30 Days of Me - Day 18

2010-11-17T10:04:00.002-06:00

Something you regret....

I regret a lot of things, the way I have treated people, the way i take care of my body, cutting my hair too short, loosing touch with old friends. But I would have to say that my biggest regret is this...

Being induced when i had Liv. I know that things may have turned out the same, but I also will always wonder if I wouldn't have been induced would I have had to have a C-section or would i have been able to go into labor on my own and deliver her without the c-section. Because the c-section is what has caused so much struggle, i think i will always regret the day i let the doctor tell me i needed to be induced, i should have asked more questions, but i didn't because i totally trusted doctors.

Yes, i will regret this decision forever. But i will be able to move on from it -- in time.

BEAUTIFUL GIVEAWAY

2010-11-16T13:37:00.000-06:00

The Vintage Pearl - a website that I love is having a give-a-way where they are giving away three $75.00 Gift Certificates. Check it out and register to win, they have some really unique stuff! Hurry they are drawing on Friday

30 Days - Day 17

2010-11-16T10:42:00.002-06:00

Something you are looking forward to

This says it all....

30 Days of Me - Day 16

2010-11-16T10:34:00.002-06:00

Your dream house

My dream house has always been a yellow house with a wrap around porch. I would like it to be near some form of water. I would very happy it is was something like this --

30 Days of Me - Day 15

2010-11-13T00:00:00.001-06:00

A Bible Verse -

Ecclesiates 4:9-12

9Two are better than one,

because they have a good return for their work:

10If one falls down,

his friend can help him up.

But pity the man who falls

and has no one to help him up!

11Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.

But how can one keep warm alone?

12Though one may be overpowered,

two can defend themselves.

A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

30 Days of Me - Day 14

2010-11-12T11:37:00.000-06:00

A picture you love

30 Days of Me - Day 13

2010-11-12T11:23:00.004-06:00

Goals:

Loose Weight (in progress)
~~Get on an exercise plan~~
Stop drinking pop
~~Get Liv's Big Girl Room done by her birthday~~
Ween off some of my medicines (in progress)
~~Try new recipes~~
Got to Napa Valley this year -2011
Save more money (in progress)
Put stuff in my "store"
~~Potty Train Livy~~
Pray more, gossip less (in progress)
Be more encouraging ( in progress)
~~Stop trying to please everyone~~
~~Live in the moment - Did it when it went South Carolina in March~~
~~Paint a room in our house~~
~~Run a 5k.~~

30 Days of Me - Day 12

2010-11-10T12:41:00.001-06:00

What you believe

1. I believe in the Apostles' Creed
2. I believe in prayer
3. I believe in paying it forward
4. I believe in angels
5. I believe that everything happens for a reason, and that God has a plan for everyone
6. I believe in "signs"
7. I believe that time heals all wounds
8. I believe in love
9. I believe in my husband
10. I believe Mountain Dew was the best invention ever

30 Days of Me - Day 11

2010-11-10T12:30:00.002-06:00

Favorite TV Shows

I believe the greatest show of all time was "Dawson's Creek", sadly it isn't on anymore:(

Most of the TV shows that I like are "reality TV"

Survivor
Life Unexpected
Friends (Re-Runs)
American Pickers
Teen Mom (guilty pleasure)
American Idol
House Hunters
The Local News
Super Nanny
The Next Food Network Star

30 Days of Me - Day 10

2010-11-09T16:11:00.004-06:00

Something you're afraid of….

I use to be afraid of many things; thunderstorms, snowstorms, failing at something, not fitting in, loosing or something happening to someone I love.

But now, things have changed.

I really can't say I am "afraid" of anything. Life happens. I can't change the weather or what people think of me. If I fail at something it is just another learning experience. And if something happens to someone I love, well it's not in my hands, there is Someone much bigger than I that takes care of that and all I can do is pray.

Now some of you may say "Heidi, you’re crazy – you are afraid of everything!" Believe me I am not afraid – I have stared fear in the face. I am just anxious, and that is just my nature. There is a difference, check out www.dictionary.com

So enjoy my anxiousness it's built in me. I wouldn't be "Heidi" if I didn't have it.

As far as being afraid "You only have one life, you better live it." (quote by my brother in law Ken)

30 Days of Me - Day 9

2010-11-09T12:03:00.000-06:00

A picture of your friends - I changed it to pictures!

My Sisters - the Best friends in the whole world

My Bestie Ang, we have known one another since we were 4!

My co-worker, lifesaver at work, ex-carpool buddy, and friend - J.

My sister-in law, Chris and Marty's cousin Bec. Two of the most fun people I know.

30 Days of Me - Day 8

2010-11-09T10:44:00.005-06:00

I am a little bit behind, we went to Galena for the weekend and also Liv has been sick. I will try and catch up today.

A Place you've traveled to - ANTIGUA!

For our honeymoon we wanted to go somewhere different, somewhere warm, somewhere carefree. Marty chose the perfect place -- The St. James Club in Antigua http://www.stjamesclubantigua.com! I have never been more relaxed in my life! We had some much fun just hanging out and being together. We ate fine dinners, went snorkeling, read a lot of books, watched an Iowa game, snorkeled. It was beautiful and amazing - i can't wait until we go back - 5 more years!!!

Here are some pictures.

The view from our room. We were literally 20 ft. from the ocean.

Marty overlooking English Harbor

A storm coming in while we are on the snorkeling boat.

Plantains

Hottie!

Mr. & Mrs. Martin Ottilie

30 Days of Me - Day 7

2010-11-05T13:00:00.001-05:00

I will admit to not being a really big movie fanatic (i think it because i worked in a movie theater) - I do have a few favorite movies, although not many recent ones.

The American President
How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days
Serendipity
40 Year Old Virgin
Catch me if You Can
Castaway
Titanic
My Best Friends Wedding
Up in the Air
Signs
Raising Helen
Dirty Dancing
Empire Records

There 13 movies that i could watch over and over again!

Has it been five years????

2010-11-05T00:01:00.003-05:00

Five years ago today, i became a wife, something i had always hoped for. I can't believe that it has been five years since that day. The day was filled with family and friends from near and far, happiness, tears for those that couldn't be with us, tears because Iowa lost that day:(. But i will never for got the way i felt when i saw my groom standing at the end of the aisle. I felt at home. And five years later i still feel that very same way. We have weathered quite the storm and he literally never left my side those days that we spent in the hospital. I was out of it, but when he left to go for walk or get something to eat, or couldn't be with me because of hospital rules - i sensed it and all i would have to hear was his voice and i would calm. He is my best friend, my rock, my planner, he is my everything. Never would I have imagined that five years later we would have gone through a paramount of struggle and end up with a wonderful little girl that shines as bright as the sun.
We are blessed everyday with wonderful things. But November 5, 2005 I was given my greatest blessing -- my home.

Cheers to many more happy years! I love you!

30 Days of Me - Day 6

2010-11-04T15:58:00.001-05:00

A photo that makes you happy.

I don't think i really need to explain why this picture makes me happy. Just the three of us, just hanging out at home after Liv took a bath. Just what i always dreamed of.

30 Days of Me - Day 5

2010-11-03T13:55:00.002-05:00

A favorite recipe

THE GUNDRY TRIANGLE EGG-BAKE
This recipe is a definite go to in our family. I love it because it is easy and you can use for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. I sometimes mix things up by adding ham or bacon in place of the sausage. I also have thrown in mushrooms, asparagus, and other things too. It’s kind of a do what you want type of recipe.

6 eggs

6 slices of bread cubed

2 cups of milk

2 cups of shredded cheese (I use cheddar)

1 tbs of spicy brown mustard

½ of a large onion chopped

1 lb of JIMMY DEAN SAGE Sausage browned and drained

Step 1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

Step 2. Crack eggs in a medium to large bowl, wisk until blended.

Step 3. Whisk in milk and mustard.

Step 4. Stir in bread cubes, stir until well soaked

Step 5. Stir sausage and cheese

Step 6. Mix well

Step 7. Pour into an UNGREASED 13 x 9 glass pan

Bake at 350°F for 45 – 60 minutes. You can either bake it in the oven right away after the oven has preheated OR cover and place in the refrigerator overnight. If you do this make sure that you take it out of the fridge 40 minutes before placing in the ovenJ

Enjoy!

30 Days of Me - Day 4

2010-11-02T14:36:00.002-05:00

My Parents

My parents, oh they are so precious! I am so lucky to have grown up in the home that I did, I can't imagine anything better. We sat down for dinner as a family, we said grace, we had chores, we went to church, we were tucked in at night, we played games, we laughed together. I always knew that I was loved.

My dad, i can't even think of being anyone else's daughter. When i was little my dad was my hero, as most dads are to their little girls. I loved being outside with him, running the dogs, fishing or playing kick-the-can. As i grew into a teenager I still loved my dad, yes he had rules that I may mot have liked - but i never wanted to disappoint him (and still don't). He traveled a lot for work when i was in high school - but always seemed to make it home for football/basketball games, choir events, or whatever else i may have going on. Once I went off to college my dad became my sounding board - i would call for advise on school, work, boys, money (OK maybe not for advise on this, more like can i have some?). I made some difficult choices when i was in my young twenties, and i won't have been able to make those choices if it weren't for the unconditional love i knew that i had from my dad.

My mom, my mom is a hoot! Anyone that know my mom loves "Sal". Growing up my mom was my constant companion. I loved going to the grocery store with her, watching soaps (one of my favorite things to think of about my mom is when i would curl up next to her when she was watching her soaps, and i would take a nap), going for walks, and sharing stories. My mom took care of me when i was sick, my mom made me cookies with pink frosting, my mom calmed my when i would get scared at night. My mom let me have the best sleeps overs, she would drive me and my friends around to see our "boyfriends" houses. My mom was there for everything! When i went to college i missed my mom, and we began to to talk on the phone everyday, something we still continue to do. I know my mom will always take care of me - that is a wonderful feeling.

Today my parents are still a very important part of my (our ) life. I still depend on my mom and dad for support, encouragement, prayers, love. When things in my life feel upside down, i run to them. They love my husband as their son. They treasure their only granddaughter and will do anything we need to help us to take care of her. They are perfect example of marriage and family. They have raised 3 girls who all love and respect them AND one another. That says a lot. Some of my proudest moments are when my little family, my mom and dad, my sisters and their families are all in the same room or on the fireplace in Michigan just being together and laughing and sharing stories. No, we are not the perfect family- but it feels like we are pretty close and I feel so lucky.

30 Days of Me - Day 3

2010-11-01T12:54:00.002-05:00

My First Love.

Hmmm. I would have to say that my first love was the outdoors. From the the time I was little I always loved being outside. We moved to the "county" when i was 3, so most of memories are from living there. My sisters and I are were always outside whether we were playing Little House on The Prairie, riding bikes, mowing the lawn, gardening with dad, picking apples, strawberries, grapes, cherries. We also loved to build forts in the woods.

And then there is Michigan. Anyone that knows our family well knows that this is THE PLACE. The smell of the pines, the clear spring fed water, the stars that dazzle from above. When we are there we are rarely inside, even if it is raining we can sit outside on the "fireplace" and read or play cards.

To the outdoors is where i go. It is where after i had Livy i found peace. It is where I got engaged. It is where I have bonded with my family and friends.

So i would say my first love was the outdoors it has taught me patients, unpredictability, courage, and in its own way strength.

30 Days of Me - Day 2

2010-10-29T13:57:00.005-05:00

The meaning behind our blog name.

Our blog is named Little Moments. It is a title to a Brad Paisley song. It was also the song that Marty and I first danced to at our wedding.

The reason behind the blog name? The song is just so "us" there are so many little moments through out our life that i live for. Marty holding my hand, Liv telling me "Mama your precious", so many things. That when they happen they may not be this huge moment in time, but a mere second that puts a smile on on my face and warmth to my soul.

The songs plays on our blog player but i will also post the Lyrics.

Well I'll never forget the first time that I heard
That pretty mouth say that dirty word
And I can't even remember now what she backed my truck into
But she covered her mouth and her face got red
And she just looked so darn cute
That I couldn't even act like I was mad
Yeah I live for little moments like that

Well that's just like last year on my birthday
She lost all track of time and burnt the cake
And every smoke detector in the house was goin' off
And she was just about to cry until I took her in my arms
And I tried not to let her see me laugh
Yeah I live for little moments like that

I know she's not perfect but she tries so hard for me
And I thank god that she isn't 'cause how boring would that be
It's the little imperfections it's the sudden change in plans
When she misreads the directions and we're lost but holdin' hands
Yeah I live for little moments like that

When she's layin' on my shoulder on the sofa in the dark
And about the time she falls asleep so does my right arm
And I want so bad to move it 'cause it's tinglin' and it's numb
But she looks so much like an angel that I don't wanna wake her up
Yeah I live for little moments
When she steals my heart again and doesn't even know it
Yeah I live for little moments like that

Quiz: What Will Your Baby Grow Up to Be?

2010-10-29T11:36:00.004-05:00

Quiz: What Will Your Baby Grow Up to Be?

Picture by Laura Pfaff

So i took the quiz, looks like we may have a little politician on our hands. The way she lobbied her Dad and I for M & M's right before bed last night, i wouldn't doubt it.

30 Days of me - Day 1

2010-10-28T13:15:00.000-05:00

I am Heidi, wife to my wonderful college sweetheart Mar, Mama to my adorable little girl Liv. I was born and raised in a small town - which i still hold dear to my heart. I grew up in with 2 older sisters and loving parents in the country. I am a small town girl at heart, and believe that a lot of the values that I think are important in a person were instilled in me by living there. I work full time as an administrative assistant and love my job - but mostly I love being a wife and mom.

15 Interesting Facts:

I have 5 nephews and 1 niece, who I adore
I have a store on Etsy www.the7thladybug.etsy.com where i sell tutu's
I collect thimbles
I hate mayo and tuna
I love the smell of freshly turned soil
If I had more time I would go back to school to be a nurse
Marty and I have been together for 13 years and married for 5 of those (almost)
I have never been arrested
I haven't had a speeding ticket since that day I turned 16 (my one and only)
I love to grocery shop
I loved planning our wedding
My dad is my hero
My mom is my hero too!
I can still do a cart wheel
I don't like c-sections

I think that covers it for the first day, see you tomorrow.

30 Days of me

2010-10-28T12:55:00.005-05:00

I love blogging, but don't do it enough and I am finding that it is therapeutic for me too.

In order for my friends and followers to learn more about me I am going to try and blog about the following topics for the next 30 days. I must say i didn't come up with this idea on my own, one the blogs i follow is going to be doing this too, Ashley at http://thestauffershenanigans.blogspot.com/2010/10/30-day-challenge.html. So here goes, and maybe you will actually learn something about me you didn't know:)

Day 1-Introduce, recent picture, 15 interesting facts

Day 2-Meaning behind your blog name

Day 3-Your first love

Day 4-Your parents

Day 5-Your favorite recipes

Day 6-A picture of something that makes you happy

Day 7-Favorite movies

Day 8-A place you've traveled to

Day 9-A picture of your friends

Day 10-Something you're afraid of

Day 11-Favorite tv shows

Day 12-What you believe

Day 13-Goals

Day 14-A picture you love

Day 15-Bible verse

Day 16-Dream house

Day 17-Something you're looking forward to

Day 18-Something you regret

Day 19-Something you miss

Day 20-Nicknames

Day 21-Picture of yourself

Day 22-What's in your makeup bag

Day 23-Favorite vacation

Day 24-Something you've learned

Day 25-Put your iPod on shuffle, first 10 songs

Day 26-Picture of your family

Day 27-Pets

Day 28-Something that stresses you out

Day 29-3 Wishes

Day 30-a picture

Angry Thanks

2010-10-14T14:01:00.001-05:00

Angry – just another feeling that I have been having lately.

· Angry that we can’t have another baby biologically
· Angry that it costs thousands of dollars to adopt a baby, when there are some many babies that need a good family.
· Angry that I can’t remember 2008.
· Angry that I can’t water ski.
· Angry that people think I am weak. When really my whole life I have been an emotional person (and many people can testify to this). People see my emotions as a sign of weakness when in fact I see it as sign of empathy. The ability to feel what another person may be feeling, and walk in their shoes. Yes, there are days when I am sad about what happened to us, but until the person judging me for my pain has walked the walk that we walked, then I think they should not judge.
· Angry that I will never really know what happened.
· Angry that our families had to go through so much stress
· Angry that our financial situation is different because of the medical costs.
· Angry that I can‘t buckle my own high heel.
· Angry that for every day of my life I will have a permanent reminder on my stomach.

Thankful – another feeling

· For my husband who always stays by my side
· Our families for their love and support
· My job
· That I don’t have to wear Spanxs anymore

· That I went tubing
· That I have the most precious little angel on earth - Liv

The days will get better - I know.

Blue

2010-10-14T10:58:00.001-05:00

Usually I use this blog to talk about our lives and our little one. But sometimes I use it like a journal to get things of my chest. To talk myself through things. To help me understand things.

Right now I feel tired.

Tired of dealing with medical appointments, medical bills, and medical insurance. Two in ½ years have passed. I just want to move one.
Tired of not having enough time to do the things I want and need to do. Clean the house really good, plant bulbs, and take Olivia to special places, go out to dinner with Marty.
Tired of having feeling like I have to say “yes” when I really want to say no.
Tired of having to explain “my story” to every new doctor I see, the dentist, the hygienist, the eye doctor. Do you think I could just write a book and hand it to them?
Tire of taking medication to make me feel better. I think it makes me tired.
Tired of thinking about how things could have been different, but that maybe they were meant to be this way for reason.
Tired of people implying that I am weak. I am strong. I know that.
Tired of not having clothes that fit.
Tired of feeling tired.

This is how I feel and I am entitled to these feelings, right?

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-13T11:15:00.001-05:00

Photo By Laura Pfaff

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-06T15:57:00.002-05:00

Livy's annual birthday present to "Grammy"!

Joy

2010-10-04T13:09:00.000-05:00

Livy went to the doctor for her 2 1/2 year check up - she is getting so big! She weighs 27.5 lbs and is 35 inches tall. I am 60 inches tall, so that means she half as tall as me! Yikes! She talking all the time, and loves to sing and dance. My favorite latest quote is "Momma you are my best friend". She said this the other night we when we were having a sleepover in my old bedroom at Grandma and Grandpas. She asked to hold my hand as we were laying there and then those sweet little word came out of her mouth. My heart filled with joy!

I Will Remember you - Bruce

2010-09-22T14:42:00.001-05:00

The world has lost a wonderful man and heaven has gained a really special person.. A man who's character i cannot put into words other than it was aw-inspiring. He changed my life, and many others. I knew him for very few years compared to others, but in that time his presence and his gifts impacted my life.

His legacy will live on on his family. In my Brother-in- Law Ben, in his daughter Sara, and in his grandchildren, and in the the many, many people whose life he touched.

I know Bruce has left, but he is still will me. I see him everywhere.

Rest in peace Bruce, and don't worry I am sure that God has a very special job for you.

If you want to want to be inspired read Bruce's journal at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/bruceconley

Photographs and Freeport

2010-09-22T10:56:00.000-05:00

Guess what! Someone wants to BUY 6 of my pictures that I took of Freeport. I took them many years ago, as a gift for my Bridesmaids. Then someone saw them in one of my bridesmaid homes and contacted me to ask if they could purchase some of them. I am so excited! Obviously I never expected to make money off my love of photography, but I must say it is pretty neat that someone likes them besides me. I don't have any of the pictures to post, because I took them with my negative camera. Anyway just wanted to share because i am super excited!

Summer's Almost Over and I am Crying, But I Don't Know Why.....

2010-09-08T14:08:00.000-05:00

Summers almost over and I am crying, but I don’t know why...This is the refrain to one of my favorite songs by Cheryl Wheeler.

Summer is almost over, tonight we will be leaving for Michigan for Labor Day and I always thinks of this is as the last weekend of summer. It is the weekend where we go and close up camp, the weekend before Hawkeye Football Season begins. The time of year where the few tired leaves start slowly floating down to start the first patches that will soon blanket the lawn with a quilt of beautiful red, oranges, and browns. The time of year where I started thinking of pumpkins, apples, and Livy’s Halloween costume. I love this time of year and am excited for its arrival, but am sad to see the summer of 2010 go.

Why?

I am feeling the best I have felt since the birth of Olivia. I have been able to take her to pool, play with her outside, garden with her, explore with her, dream with her, have little conversations with her, and teach her.

I went tubing! I was dying to get behind that boat, but I knew that I wasn't strong enough to water ski just yet. So come rain or come shine I was going to do something, so I went tubing and I survived!

We added a new family member to our life, our precious, little (growing like a weed) nephew. Isaac. We have spent some time with him over a few weekends which were great! I love him so much, and am so glad that there is another baby in my life.

Mama went OUT! My brother-in-Law Aaron is the lead singer in a band “Daddy’s Brothers Band” so I went out to Iowa to see them play. My mom and dad where watching the princess (Liv) and the Pea (Isaac) so I was really able to let loose and have fun with my sister. I haven’t done that in YEARS!

I started physical therapy and it is definitely helping me. Mind, body, and spirit. I have already seen a lot of progress and am thankful that I have blessed with some many wondering medical professionals after my bad experience. It takes a lot me to trust someone in that field and I feel like I finally have the right mix.
We have been able to spend some time with our friends at birthday parties, Euchre night, and in the just hanging out in the neighborhood.

We had 3 of our 5 Nephews and our Niece over for Cousin’s campout, Liv loved playing with Cousins and she keeps asking where they are.

8.) And my summer wouldn’t have been as fun without my little family – Marty and Livy. You make everyday a challenge (in a good way) and a blessing. Thank you for lifting me when I need help, for loving me when I am down, and mostly for just be you. You both are my little bit of summer when then snow starts falling down.

Still Here...Still Busy

2010-07-29T14:54:00.003-05:00

Hi All! Yes we are still here! We have been super busy that I just haven't had time to blog. I have been busy at work, my friend Lauren had her twin boys at the end of June and I am also her backup - so, busy at work. I also have been trying to live a more happy and healthier lifestyle so that means more exercising, more healthy cooking, more spending time on "me" (hey did you know that I am a survivor, NOT a victim? :)), I will be starting physical therapy in August, so busy with me. The thing that keeps me the busiest is my patient family. Livy is on the go, go , go. And she talks, talks, talks, (my latest favorite was "Momma your precious.") She is my joy and every spare moment i have i like to spend in her company. Marty is also busy, busy, busy. Working, taking care of me, taking care of Liv, taking care of the business. So the quiet moments and Little Moments we have are few and far between so we treasure them when we have them. Plus, I know Hawkeye football season is going to be starting up, so I better get my time in with my hubby while i still can!

So there is a quick catch up! Still here, but busy. Busy. Can i say it one more time - busy.

Beautiful, Beautiful Boy!

2010-06-28T14:12:00.000-05:00

I finally got to meet my newest nephew! Isaac is so precious. He is so NOT a Gundry with those long legs, but he for sure has Heather's lips. I went out Iowa of Friday and stayed until Sunday. Of course when i Saw "Baby I" I started crying. He is so perfect. He has the most adorable expressions, and is so calm. On Friday night, i gave Issac his first bath:) Then on Saturday I got Heather out of the house for a little bit and when we came home i took over Isaac duty. It was wonderful since i missed that time with my Little girl. He was the perfect baby, he only got up once at night to eat. I loved taking caring of him and felt comfortable since he is my sisters son.

Heather is doing beautifully, she is healing well and is so happy to have her little boy here! Aaron is also doing well, I loved listening to him sing to his beautiful, beautiful boy.

I will post more pictures on our shutterfly account, the link is located to the left.

Daddy's Day!

2010-06-24T16:19:00.006-05:00

This is really late but I wanted to make sure to honor my husband. Marty is the best Daddy that Liv could possible ask for. He amazes me every day with how much he loves his little girl. He gets up with her every morning so I can sleep and get ready for work. When he comes home from work he plays with her and takes her on fun adventures. He thinks up creative things for her – like sitting in a laundry basket and pushing her around or putting her in a big box and letting her color all over it. Livy loves her daddy so much, when he not home she is always asking "Where's dada?". Olivia and I are so blessed to have such a caring husband and dad. Someone who steps up to plate when life hands us a big ugly box of lemons. Someone who smile lights up our world. Someone who loves us unconditionally. Wow, we love you Mar!

And a shout out to my Dad – I am so PROUD to call you my dad. The examples you have set are with my every day. I hope my daughter is as proud of me one day as I am of you.

Grandma

2010-06-24T11:18:00.001-05:00

Marty's Grandma passed away earlier this month. She was such an amazing woman. Although the time that I got to spend with her was few and far between, I was always amazed by her. She told great stories, she valued education, and she loved her family. I am so thankful that Grandma flew into meet Olivia in 2009, I am sure that Liv will treasure this snapshot of her Great Grandma Ottilie forever. Link to Grandma's Obituary

BABY ISAAC IS HERE!

2010-06-21T09:32:00.001-05:00

Heather and Aaron welcomed their little boy into the world on Saturday morning. Isaac Jon weighed in at 8 lbs 9oz and 21 1/2 long. Light blond hair and beautiful. I don't have any pictures to post but will put some up as as soon as i get some. Mama and Baby are doing great. I will be heading to Iowa this weekend to see my new love... i can't wait!

Flower Child

2010-06-15T11:47:00.001-05:00

My friend Laura took these pictures of Olivia....they are so beautiful! Thanks Laura, we had so much fun! I added the rest of the pictures to our shutterfly account, you can get there by clicking on the link to the left.

Resting Our Weary Feet

2010-06-07T14:56:00.003-05:00

We have been running, and running, and running! Finally a chance to rest our weary feet!

We have been so busy lately that I haven't had a chance to update. So this will be one long post.

Toward the end of May Olivia and I took or first Mommy and Daughter road trip together. Where ever would we go? Well the choice was easy, Iowa City to see Auntie Heather and Uncle Aaron before Baby I arrives. Olivia and I did well in the car together, excep,t, for the first half hour when she would see a semi and yell "Watch Out"! It scared me every time. We arrived in Iowa City, and had my favorite pizza from when I was in college – The Wedge. On Saturday, we headed down to the farmers market and found some cute clothes for Livy and Baby I. Then the three of us met up with one of our friends from Freeport and his family at a local park. Olivia had so much playing with her new "friends" until she fell and hit her cheek. So we packed things up and headed back to Heather and Aarons' house and helped Uncle plant his garden. Overall it was a fun trip for us girls and of course we loved seeing Auntie Heather. Her and Aarons little one should be her within the next week or so! Oh, another little boy for Livy to play with and Mommy to love!

The next weekend we could feel the north woods calling our name, Memorial Day weekend was here and we knew just where we wanted to go. The Roost. We arrived late Friday night. The weekend was INCREDIABLE you don't get 80+ temperatures in the U.P. very often, so we took full advantage of the sun and spent a lot of our time in the water. Livy loved playing in the sand and playing and swimming with mommy and daddy in the deeper part. She also loved riding on Grandpas boat. All of us "Big Kids" jumped off the boat in the middle of the lake, and Livy wanted to too. Grandma told her one more birthday and she could. (Mommy say's we will see about that). We ate a lot of yummy food (thanks to Auntie Amy) and had a fun bonfire (thanks to Uncle Ken). Liv loved playing with Austin, his friend Westin, and the dogs Rem and Jingles. We can't wait to get back up to camp, as Liv says "I miss it…"

Oh and one more Liv story –

We arrived at camp late on Friday and Liv stayed in the "Big" Cabin with Namma and Grandpa while Marty and I stayed in the "Little Cabin". While my mom was laying her down
Liv asked, "Where did my family go?"
My mom replied "Who is your family?"
"Mommy and Daddy."
"They went to go sleep in the Little Cabin"
"That's terrible".
Then she proceeded to lay down and go to sleep. She cracks me up.

This past weekend we had our first garage sale EVER! I had so much fun, it was sad to see some things go, like Livy's itty bitty clothes, or my first real kitchen table. But it was worth it. I loved talking to different people….maybe I weird because I like to talk to strangers. Livy spent the weekend in Freeport so we could run the garage sale.

Next weekend – we will be at home (unless Baby I decided to make his grand entrance!!!!) just enjoying being at home as a family. We have had fun this past few weeks, but our feet or TIRED! Also, maybe I will then have time to update our pictures.

The Lucky One

2010-05-18T11:28:00.002-05:00

This post is a little late but we have been pretty busy lately. The Saturday, before Mother’s Day we hosted our annual Mother’s Day Grill out, once again, the weather was not the best. We are still over joyed that so many of family members, and extended family could join us in celebrating the special moms in our lives. It is always a fun day when we can gather in celebration and blessings. And a special thank you from Livy to her Grandma's - she loves you both so much!

On Mother’s Day, Livy woke me to tell me she had a present for me. She had gotten me a pair of socks! Marty asked me what I wanted to do to celebrate and I decided I just wanted to be outside with him and Livy. So we packed up and we headed in to Geneva and had a “Park Day”. We took Liv to three different parks. It was a wonderful Mother’s Day, really the first one that I could really appreciate, because I felt good. Thanks Marty and Livy, I had a blast!

On a side note, Livy is on a roll with her talking! I love this age, I never know what is going to come out of her mouth. One quick little story. When my darling daughter isn’t listening to me, I say “Look at my eyes”. The other morning we were getting ready to leave for daycare, Marty had left, and I was running late gathering all the lunches, purses, blanket, juice cup, etc. and I said “Livy, let’s go!” She replies “Momma, look at my FACE, I not going”. I had to walk away because I was laughing so hard. I am so lucky to have such a amazing precious daughter....

Got Music?

2010-05-11T11:01:00.001-05:00

I have added a “Playlist” to my blog that plays some of my favorite songs. I am sure that I will change them from time-to-time but for right now I put my top five all-time favorites and will explain later in this entry why I love each of them.

Music has and I think will always be a big piece of my life. From the time I was young I loved listening to music and relating it to my life. I have never been a good musician or singer, so I surrounded myself with people that were / are. Even though I may not be great at singing, I love singing with my sisters in the car or in Michigan, or with Marty on long trips. Music for me, can engrave a memory in my mind. Although, I have lost some of my memories, if I hear a song from 10 years ago that I liked, I can feel emotion connected to that song, and sometimes it will stir up the memory.

Here is where I will do the explaining…

1. Little Moments – Brad Paisley – This was our “Wedding Song”. This song is just so us. The Little Moments are what we cherish and now that we have Little Liv we cherish them even more.

2. My Eyes - Travis – When I was pregnant with Olivia my good friend gave me this song; I listened and loved it, so it became Olivia and my song. I still love it, and she knows that it is “her” song.

3. What If I Stumble – DC Talk – This song came into my life well over 10 years ago and has always been a favorite. I saw DC Talk in concert my senior year of high school with the Cronk Girls. That concert forever changed my life, and this song is the song that brings me back to that memory.

4. I Need you – Tim McGraw and Faith Hill – I love a good love story, and Tim and Faith have one. This song reminds me of our 2007 Road Trip West. I remember listening to it as we drove down Wyoming to Colorado. It was the most beautiful country to ride in, and I was riding with the one that I love down a road that looked like it went on forever. It was perfect.

5. Lessons Learned – Carrie Underwood – Remember Alley McBeal??? She had a theme song for her life. This is mine.

Have you seen her?

2010-04-30T15:42:00.002-05:00

I heard this song today on the radio, and it reminded me of who else --ME! In a way the lyrics describe my feelings right now, the search of trying to get back to the old Heidi. Have you seen her? The Song is called American Honey and is by Lady Antebellum.
She grew up on a side of the road
Where the church bells ring and strong love grows
She grew up good
She grew up slow
Like American honey
Steady as a preacher
Free as a weed
Couldn't wait to get goin'
But wasn't quite ready to leave
So innocent, pure and sweet
American honey
There's a wild, wild whisper
Blowin' in the wind
Callin' out my name like a long lost friend
Oh I miss those days as the years go by
Oh nothing's sweeter than summertime
And American honey
Get caught in the race
Of this crazy life
Tryin' to be everything can make you lose your mind
I just wanna go back in time
To American honey, yea
There's a wild, wild whisper
Blowin' in the wind
Callin' out my name like a long lost friend
Oh I miss those days as the years go by
Oh nothing's sweeter than summertime
And American honey
Gone for so long now
I gotta get back to her somehow
To American honey
Ooh There's a wild, wild whisper
Blowin' in the wind
Callin' out my name like a long lost friend
Oh I miss those days as the years go by
Oh nothin's sweeter than summertime
And American honey
And American honey

My Daughter, My Dream

2010-04-29T18:30:00.003-05:00

I was corresponding with an old friend today and I asked them… What did I want out of life (fourteen years ago)? Their reply…”You wanted a family. You had plans; big plans for your life and they all centered on your family and being a mother. I am glad that you are able to realize that goal!"

Woah…it hit me like a ton of bricks. I have reached that goal; I AM a wife and a mother. I guess sometimes I focus so much on the past and the fact that Olivia will be our only biological child, that I forget I already have my dream. I have a wonderful husband whose love has never faltered during rough times, and a beautiful daughter.

I guess sometimes it helps to reach out to those who knew you when you were young, who knew the dreams that you dreamt without fear. The people who know your true self because you lived that way before all the “adult” things clouded over your sunny outlook.

I have kind of forgotten who that Heidi is and am slowly finding her again, one day at a time. I will get back there, I have to - so Livy knows her mommy for who she really is and Marty gets to see that girl he fell in love with.

Wow, what a revelation.

Olivia's Second Birthday!

2010-04-07T12:45:00.004-05:00

Livy is two! It is so hard to believe, these two years have gone by so fast! I took the day off of work on her birthday so we could have a fun "mother and daughter day". We went to ToysRUs and she had her first shopping trip. She had received a gift card from her Great Grandma Ottilie, so instead of putting her in the cart, I let her walk around and look at everything and then pick what she wanted. She choose - a grocery cart, a bucket, an ABC Puzzle, Tinkerbell stickers, and bat and ball! She had so much fun!

After our shopping we went to the park and played and had a picnic.

Then it was off to the Doctor. I know, i am such a horrible mother for making her go to the doctor on her birthday. But she actually had fun, i let her take her doctors kit so she wouldn't be so scared. It worked like a charm! No tears from little Miss. The doctors says that she is very petite ( i think she meant short) she is 31 1/2 inches tall and weighs 25 lbs. I think she may have some Gundry genes. The Dr. also said that her vocabulary is that of a 3 year old! Go Liv!

Later that night just the three of us ordered pizza (Liv's favorite) and had cupcakes and sang Happy Birthday, to our little Angel.

Wish List Wednesday

2010-03-31T10:15:00.002-05:00

I guess my mind has been on nice weather and doing things outside.....

I would love a patio to walk out on when we walk out of the basement

And of course we would need some furniture to with it

And lastly, this one is for the inside. We have lived in our house for almost

5 years and still haven't painted our bedroom. I love this look.

I know it's a dining room, but you get the idea:)

Just wishing away..

Follow Us?

2010-03-30T11:36:00.001-05:00

Do you want to becoming a follower of our Little Moments Blog? If so become a "follower" by scrolling down the on the right side of the page. *Now i have the John Denver Song in my head, "Follow Me". Ahhh, I love John Denver.

A Dream Achieved

2010-03-29T16:27:00.002-05:00

This past weekend Livy went on vacationJ She went to Grandpa and Grandma Gundry’s house for two whole nights! Grandpa and Grandma had a very busy weekend scheduled for her. On Friday night she went to the country club for dinner. She was there for three ½ hours, and if you talk to Grandpa she is every bit the social butterfly (I wonder who she gets that from, ahem – GRANDPA). On Saturday, Grandma and Grandpa took her over to our family friends’ house, Bill and Judy. Livy enjoyed giving a recital on Judy’s piano. On Sunday, she went to church and carrieda a Palm down the aisle with the other children. She declared “ I like church” more than once. Also on Sunday Olivia achieved a dream she has been thinking of for months – she flew a kite with Grandpa!

So with Olivia gone for the weekend, Marty and I enjoyed some “couple time”. We went to dinner Friday night at Emmet’s. On Saturday, Marty worked and played golf, I ran errands, and then we rented a movie – “Couples Retreat” with Vince Vaughn. I totally recommend it! Then on Sunday I drove to go pick up Liv (All by myself –wee hee, Iowa City here I come!)

What a weekend! Thanks Mom and Dad!

730

2010-03-26T12:01:00.006-05:00

730. That’s how many days old our “baby girl” will be, one week from today.

Where has the time gone?I can’t grasp that she is now her own little being. She has her own thoughts, feelings, and attitude.

She loves her Dada, her blankie, and her paci.

She enjoys playing outside, doggies and long walks with Mama.

A year ago, she couldn’t walk. Now she runs – EVERYWHERE.

Two Years ago, she was dependent on someone for EVERYTHING.

From the beginning of her life there was struggle, now those days are behind us. We are blessed with her laughter, smile, and sweetness everyday. I think no matter how old she gets, she will always be our “baby girl”. She might not like it, but she doesn’t have much say about it:)

Growing so fast!

2010-03-25T11:04:00.002-05:00

I can't believe how big Liv is getting. Her Grandma Ginny just sent me a few pictures from when they hung out two days ago, and i couldn't help but think "where has my little baby gone?". As much as I miss my baby girl, i love the stage that she is in now. She talks ( a lot), sings, likes to play with others, and can say and do the funniest things. What a joy she is to us.

WISH LIST WEDNESDAY

2010-03-24T10:32:00.005-05:00

I noticed this on a lot of other blogs and thought it would be a fun "game" to play. Especially since I am going to try and blog more often.

First of all I would like to get a new fridge, since ours had been leaking...

Next, I have been thinking about getting Livy a little pool for this summer since she LOVES the water.

And then this for Mom and Dad when we go to the lake

I think I am anxious for summer:)

BLESSED

2009-03-11T15:53:00.008-05:00

Hi All! It has been awhile since I posted but I thought now we have added a new addition to our family, maybe I will try and keep this thing up-to-date.

Here is a brief rundown of the past year and a half:
· In July of 2007 Marty and I took a road trip out West. We hit up Iowa, South Dakota, Yellowstone, Colorado, and Kansas. It was great trip; we camped out IN A TENT for 10 Days. Yes, Heidi slept in a tent for 10 DAYS and when Marty broke down on 8th day and wanted to get a hotel room, I said no way! I loved every minutes of our trip. The best part is that Marty and I realized that if we could spend that much time together and still enjoy each other; we must have something really special and lasting.
· In early August 2007 we learned were expecting a baby! We were so excited!
· On September 11, 2007 our fourth Nephew was born. Michael Benjamin Conley was born (his Grandma's Birthday!) at 10:08 a.m. He came into the world at 33 1/2 weeks weighing 4 lbs 12 oz and is 17 1/2 inches long. He was born a little bit early, but you would never know it. He is one strong little boy.
· Late November 2007 we find out we are having a baby Girl! Pink starts flooding into our house. And we starting thinking of names.
· Mid-March 2008 Marty has a surprise 30th birthday party for me. I was so surprised I thought I was going to have the baby right then and there.
· March 31st 2008 we go to the hospital for the induction of Little Girl Ottilie.
· April 1 2008 Little Girl Ottilie is happy where she is….we keep waiting to meet her.
· April 2 2008 – She arrives will much fan fare. Her name will be Savanna…….for an hour. Then she has no name.
· April 3 2008 – Baby Girl Ottilie has a name – Olivia Eileen Ottilie (Livy)
· Early April – through June. A long period of struggle filled with the kindness and hope of family and friends and prayers from all around the country.
· Early July 2008 – We head to up to Michigan with our little one. It finally feels like we are getting somewhere. I feel relief and a sense of peacefulness lay over my body as we lay in our room in the cabin. I hold my daughter closer.
· Late July 2008 – Olivia and I leave Marty and home and head back up to Michigan with Auntie Heather and Uncle Aaron. Once again, I feel so safe, so near to God as sit on the dock with my baby. She smiles now and knows I am her mama. We co-sleep on this trip and she likes me to hold her hands, yes hands while we are sleeping. I take care of her all by myself for the most part (Grandma, Auntie, and many friends did their fair share). For the first time I feel like I am a mom. Olivia goes for her first swim in Round Lake. We have a fish on our hands. Olivia also tries her first “baby food” peaches. We miss Daddy, time to go home.
· August 2008 – I start driving again, FREEDOM!
· Mid-September 2008– I return to my job at W. R. MEADOWS, INC. – They still want me? What a support they were to my family.
· October 31, 2008 – Olivia dresses up a Yoda for Halloween.
· Early November – Marty and I celebrate our 3rd Anniversary in Galena and leave Livy for the weekend at Grandma and Grandpa Gundry’s. That next Monday she starts crawling.
· November 16, 2008 –Olivia is baptized and becomes a child of God.
· December – Christmas is celebrated with family and friends. Livy sleeps through the night!
· January 2009 – Olivia starts taking swimming lessons with Mommy. She also starts “talking” mama, dada, baba, duck? She also likes to play hide and seek. She becomes attached to a blankie.
· February 2009 – I have a big appointment at NW Hospital. I am healing well and will prepare for another surgery in 2010 to fix my stomach. I start scrapbooking again!
· March 2009 – Olivia is on the move she is crawling as fast as Mark Martin. She is talker….we are wondering how she learned Japanese. She says a few more words at random but never on command – sock, doggy, Frank (daycares dog) stinky, out, what’s that, kick. She is free with her kisses, and loves to be loved. She stands by herself for a few minutes and then realizes what she is doing and sits. She somehow has a thing for music – any music. She likes to dance and “wash the ceiling”. Dad has taught her how to throw so she like to through pretty much everything! She loves daddy to read to her favorite is The Hungry Caterpillar. She is a happy girl 99% of the time. If she is sad just stick her in water and she is as happy as rooster;)
So I can pretty much sum up in one word the past year and half - Blessed. I should just have said that at the beginning and saved you all from having to read this.

"What a Wonderful World" Part II

2006-12-09T22:28:00.000-06:00

Ava P. (our God daughter!) was born on Friday, December 8 at 11:37 p.m. She weighed 8 pounds and was twenty-two and quarter inches long. She is as precious as can be, although Heidi is a little jealous of her long legs. We are so excited that we have another "niece" to love. We are thrilled for her parents, Eric and Michelle, and honored that they trust us to hold such a special place in her life.

For more pictures of Ava, be sure to check out our photo website, the link is located to the right.

How much of this would it take to kill you? I don't know but I am going to die trying!

2006-08-10T12:14:00.000-05:00

Marty and I took a week long vacation recently up to the U.P. of Michigan. We traveled up to “The Roost” to spend a week just enjoying all the fun of Summer Time. The whole Gundry Crew was there along with the Schoenhards. We had a great time floating on the lake, fishing and golfing (well Mar did), 4-wheeling, singing karaoke, canoeing down the Au Train River, napping (well Mar did), night swimming, bonfires, corn hole, drinking, eating, and just hanging out with the family. It was our first vacation to camp as a married couple – so we even got to share a room! We look forward to our next trip and want to thank the Rulers of the Roost for their hospitality. I think Marty is officially a WANNA-BE, I think it is hard not be when you stay for a week, there is no place quite like it.

"What a Wonderful World"

2006-08-10T12:08:00.000-05:00

Marty and I have a brand new “niece” to love and watch grow. My best friend and her husband welcomed Ava Lynn into the world on July 22, 2006. She surprised us all by arriving 5 weeks early (I personally think that she was SO excited to meet me, that she couldn’t wait any longer). She is a little one, weighing 6 lbs. 1 oz., but as the weeks have gone by, she is grown and is happy and healthy! Although, I have yet to hold her, I know I love her and I look forward to watching Pouka 3.1 grow up to be a beautiful woman – just like her mom. Congratulations Ang, Keith and Grace!

Have a Little Love in Your Heart

2006-06-30T13:57:00.000-05:00

Think of giving not as a duty but as a privilege.
~ John D. Rockefeller jr

It is that time again for the Annual Glenwood Rummage Sale. The sale is being held August 11 – 12. I am running my own Donation Drive to help in finding merchandise for the sale. If you have any items (clothing, toys, books, household goods, etc.) that you would like to donate contact me (hmottilie@gmail.com) and we can find a way to get the items from you to me and I can deliver them to the school.

All proceeds from The Rummage Sale go directly to the school and the boys and girls that attend. A tax receipt is available; let me know if you need one.

Glenwood is a great organization, that Marty and I truly believe in. If you want to learn more about the school their website is:

http://www.glenwoodschool.org

A Cord of Three Strands...

2006-06-29T22:15:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the family Ben, Emma, and Matt! On June 9 Chris and Ben were united in MARRIAGE and enlarged our family by 3 in one day! We are so excited for you both and wish years of laughter, love, and happiness. We love you all!

And it Feels Like Home...

2006-06-29T16:50:00.000-05:00

Well it is official we have been in our house for 1 year! We can hardly believe it. The time has flown by. The house is really starting to come along. Marty has been working hard in the yard, trying to get our grass the greenest in the neighborhood. I am excited to have planted my first perennial garden and the opportunity it gives me to work on my tan! We are slowly getting furniture and house is starting to feel more like “home” everyday. We have decided that we love living in DeKalb, it is a little bit city (for Mar) and little bit country (for me), so it is a nice compromise. Recently we have found that we have great neighbors who are also becoming great friends. They have taught us a few things around the house but also taught us that home owning is not all work, you can take a break and have a beer (or two, or three) every now and then!

If you are ever in the DeKalb area and need a place to crash, we are officially open for business!

For Aunt Ann

2006-06-22T12:37:00.000-05:00

Okay Aunt Ann, I have finally had time to update! So don't worry nothing is wrong with your computer, it is just that I haven't had to time to add anything new. So here is what we have been up to lately. I have also added new albums and pictures to our Shutterfly picture account. Check it out.

"Making Memories of Us"

2006-05-08T21:26:00.000-05:00

Anyone that knows me well knows that I love to Scrapbook. I think that it is a great outlet for creativity and it also helps to create a "Family History" for generations to come. Along with Scrapbooking I love to take pictures. I take pictures mostly of Austin and Andy and my friends and family, however, in my spare time I try to be "artsy" and take some black and white shots. We recently set up an online photo album at Shutterfly.com where you can go and view our photos. The site is www.theottilies.shutterfly.com . If you see something you like you can even buy it through Shutterfly. What a great way to share photos without the hassle of negatives and doubles! Enjoy!

Busy Bees

2006-04-28T12:38:00.000-05:00

I was looking at our calendar today - and I almost had a break down! I don't think we will have much of a "summer" - AGAIN! For those who know us well, you know what I am talking about - You see last year was absolute craziness for me and all of my friends. There were 5 of us that got married within a year of each other, and we were all involved in one another's weddings in one way or another. So that meant many showers, bachlorette parties, rehearsal dinners, dress shopping, etc.! Don't get me wrong it was one of the best years of my life, with so many happy memories made; but I was kind of looking forward to a summer of floating on Round Lake watching the wind blow by! It looks like I will have other plans!

But once again, my plans are full of people I love and I know that some year when the pace of life is slow and boring I will be wishing for a full calendar. I am sure this summer will fly by, just like last year and I am also sure that I will look back on it with fondness and sweetness and memories that fill my heart.

Giving it a Shot

2006-04-27T12:41:00.000-05:00

One of my best friends just set up a blog yesterday to keep track of her pregnancy. She then thought it would be cool for all of our friends to set up one as well and then we could keep track of our crazy, dizzy, spinning, busy, out of control lives! I have always known that she is smart, so I thought I would give her idea a shot. Our (mine and my husbands) life is not very exciting . No babies on the way, we are not world travelers; actually we are kind of boring people - we just are enjoying the "Little Moments" in life right now. So don't expect to find anything too thrilling on here!