~Moments to Remember~

Wedding planning in the middle of Camp!

2011-07-16T19:53:00.000-07:00

Hello there!!

I just got back from shopping all day in Springfield with my sister, sister-in-law, nieces and friend! :) Oh I was amazed by the way God blessed our whole trip!!! I found my wedding dress after the 3rd dress I tried on. I love it!!! I am so so excited!!!

Then we found the perfect fabric for the bridesmaid dresses, and it turns out, each dress is only going to cost me about $9 a piece! WOW!!! Did you get what I said? $9 dollars per bridesmaid dress!! That is like!!!...Totally a God thing!!! I was expecting each dress to be at the least $20!!! And the patterns were on sale at $1.99. And oh! I got the flowergirl dresses %50 off!!!!!!!!!!!!

Oh!!! I am just so thrilled and amazed at how much God blessed me today!!!

I am so happy!

Well I just finished my first week at camp, it was the best week I have EVER had!! My girls were simply wonderful! Awesome team work and perfect fun!!

Trying to plan a wedding while working at camp deff is interesting. But I am thrilled I have this opportunity!

Here are a few pictures of my last week!

Best Vacation Ever!!

2011-07-06T05:28:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy! I don't know how to keep it all in!

So for the last week I've been in Mass at our family cottage with my aunts and uncles and grandparents. The cottage is right off the bay and ohh, it's so beautiful!! I have never had so much fun in my little life. :) I've been pretty much eating and sleeping and playing in the sun. hehe!!

I cannot tell you how much joy and happiness I have. God is so good to me!! Every day I have seen blessing after blessing come pouring from above.

I've had a lot of time to make plans for our wedding while up here. It's been wonderful to have my aunts to talk to and to help me to plan. I finished designing our wedding invitation last night! I have to get them printed now, and then my dear friend, and sister-in-heart, Katie Brown, (one of my bridesmaids) graciously offered to write out all the addresses for us. What a friend! :D

My best-friend Nathania, (my maid of honor and sister-to-be!!) has been making the cutest little table numbers for the reception! And my mother-to-be ;) ;) ;) made some adorable decorations for the tables as well!

I am just so excited!!!

Tomorrow morning I am leaving the cottage at 3 AM to fly to Missouri. 2 weeks of camp and then back to Oklahoma I go!!!

Here are just a few pictures of my time up here! Enjoy!

(Susie, Emily, and Katie)

(Susie, Uncle Joe, Johnny, Ricky, and Josh)

(Susie)

(Emily, Susie, Aunt Nancy)

(Susie)

(Katie, Susie, Emily)

(Susie, Uncle Joe, Jon, and Josh)

Back East.

2011-06-29T12:58:00.000-07:00

Ya'll are gonna think I can never stay in one place for long. Believe it or not I got back to Pennsylvania last night and I am leaving again in a few hours to go to Massachusetts for about a week.

My Uncle Joe and Aunt Nancy are taking me up there to the family cottage for the 4th of July. I am really looking forward to it! The cottage is right on the bay and it's so pretty!

Oh my goodness, I can't believe I'm engaged!!! Wow!! I have to keep reminding myself that it's true. I'll post some pictures of the ring as soon as I can. ;)

July 7th I am flying from Boston to St. Louis. I will working at camp for about 2 weeks or so, and in the mean time packing up my little life to move to Oklahoma at the end of July!

I'll be living in OK ...well, till the wedding and after! lol! I cant believe I'm getting married in 4 months!!! Oh my goodness!! I am so excited! I've never been this happy before!

The News!!!!!!!!!

2011-06-25T06:29:00.001-07:00

I'm engaged!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Ashton Tyler proposed to me on June 22, 2011. We are getting married October 1st!!

Summertime!!

2011-06-14T13:12:00.000-07:00

Taking care of the girls, and loving the water and sun!

Counting down the days...

2011-06-14T13:04:00.000-07:00

So I told you all that something was coming up in the next few weeks... wellll... I'm still counting down the day.

But in the mean time, I heard this song today, and I've heard it many times before, but today it really meant a lot to me. It's called,

BEFORE THE MORNING.

Do you wonder why you have to
Feel the things that hurt you?
If there's a God who loves you
Where is He now?

Or maybe there are things you can't see
And all those things are happening
To bring a better ending
Someday, somehow you'll see, you'll see

Would you dare, would you dare to believe
That you still have a reason to sing?
'Cause the pain that you've been feeling
It can't compare to the joy that's coming

So hold on, you gotta wait for the light
Press on and just fight the good fight
'Cause the pain that you've been feeling
It's just the dark before the morning

My friend, you know how this all ends
And you know where you're going
You just don't know how you'll get there
So say a prayer

And hold on
'Cause there's good for those who love God
But life is not a snapshot
It might take a little time, but you'll see the bigger picture

Forever

2011-06-14T13:00:00.000-07:00

Ashlyn turn 15 this last weekend. She is such a joy to my life. I am constantly impressed and encouraged by this beautiful young lady, who I am proud to call my niece.

Oh this is just too darling!!

2011-06-14T12:58:00.000-07:00

Hehe!!! I just love, love, love this picture!!!!!!! I wanna have two little boys some day and dress them just like this, and take their pictures just like this. hehehe!! It's just way too cute!!!

I'm back!

2011-06-06T08:58:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been a whole month from my last post! Wow! I'm sorry about that! It seems like every winter I do really well at blogging and then once spring comes I get so busy, or lazy, (not sure which) and my blogging gets slow.

Anyways, for a little catch up on my life as it is at the moment, I have been back in PA for the last 3 weeks. The girls are growing up so fast. Livy is learning how to craw, Gigi is talking like crazy, and Jayda is completely potty trained.

Every day we spend about 2-4 hours outside. It's great! I love, love, love the outdoors.

Other than that... I am going to be here for about 2 more weeks, and then I'm going to Oklahoma for a little visit. More news on that will be coming up. I probably wont be posting anything on here until then...soooo, until next time... ;) Enjoy these few pictures of the girls.

May 6th, 2011

2011-05-06T16:23:00.000-07:00

Hi there! I'm writing from Linda's home. Yesterday she came and picked me up so I could spend a day with her before I leave TONIGHT for MISSOURI! Actually I will be leaving any min from now, I'm just waiting for my cousin Jeremiah to come pick me up. I'm driving out with him and his wife and 5 children. Hopefully we will arrive around noon tomorrow.

This afternoon Linda and the girls and I went into Amish country. I'ts so pretty. I love, love, love the country. And I miss it insanely!

Here are some pictures we took from our day. ;)

Catch up from Easter!

2011-05-04T21:50:00.000-07:00

My grandparents, the girls and I.

The "Older Girl Cousins"

My AMAZING aunt Nancy. Oh I love her so much!

Gigi and I. ;)

Cousins. ;) 6 under the age of 5. lol!

Hello there!

2011-05-04T21:38:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I've been so awful at blogging! Just a little update, I am now looking at 3 days till I head out to MO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm so excited! I cannot wait to be at my home, on the farm, in the country, with my family, and ready for the HSA Weekend Event that is coming up in 8 days!!!!!!!!!!! SOOO EXCITED!

I know I'm gonna miss the girls as soon as I walk out of the doors, but... right now I'm so ready to get home, and I know I will be back in 2 weeks, it will be ok. Can you believe I've been out here for nearly 3 months? This is the longest I've been away from my family. Now... I guess it's not really fair to say that tho, because I AM with "family", but you know what I mean. hehe, or... if you don't...ahh, just give me a call and I'll try to explain it to you. :P

My sister-in-law, Linda, is going to be picking me up tomorrow around noon so I can go spend about 2 days with her before I LEAVE!!! I really should be packing right now. But for the life of me I can't decided what to pack. I really dislike packing. Soooo I kinda just put it off as long as I can. Which is silly, because it isn't like it's gonna get done it's self. But anyways, I guess that's why Jayda is always telling me, "Your so silly Susie". hehe! What can I say?

April 16th!!

2011-04-16T10:24:00.000-07:00

Today is my little brothers 16th birthday!!!

I don't really have much to say, just wanted to post some pictures that I've taken this week.

April 12th

2011-04-12T11:27:00.000-07:00

It's spring!!! I'm so happy!

Yesterday I spent nearly all day with the girls outside! It was perfectly wonderful!

April 7th

2011-04-07T11:47:00.000-07:00

Sadly its been another long week. The girls are sick AGAIN. :( Sometimes it seems like this never ends. I hate it when they are sick, especially the baby.

The nights have been long, and busy cleaning up lots of messes. My poor Aunt, I can't believe how tired she must be.

It's been cool and wet the last few days. I can't wait till Monday!! I hear it is supposed to be 80 degrees!!!

Last night I had an awful headache, so after the girls were put to sleep I went on a walk. I really miss my walks at home in the country. I used to go out on 3 mile walks all the time... but its just not the same when you live near the city. The train and police cars just don't compare to the sounds of a night in the country.

I've been so blessed this week in my quiet time. Even in the mist of all this craziness with the girls being sick, wondering what is going to happen with the girls Mom, and missing my family, I know that I am loved by my Father in Heaven. I know that nothing can come between me and Him. When he looks at me... I hope I make Him smile.

I John 4:16, "And we know, understand, recognize, are conscious of, by observation and by experience and believe, adhere to, and put faith in and rely on, the love God cherishes for us. God is love and he who dwells and continues in love dwells and continues in God and God dwells and continues in him.

A picture that I love

2011-04-03T21:58:00.000-07:00

As a little girl, I had a picture in my mind of Jesus holding me when I was sad. I saw this picture today and I fell in love with it. I feel like it's a picture of me... with my Father in heaven.

April 1st!

2011-04-01T05:10:00.000-07:00

Hello! I know I haven't been good at keeping up my blog lately... But here I am for a quick update.

My parents have been here the whole week, visiting my Grandpa. My Grandpa came home from the hospital 2 days ago. He is doing alright... mostly just sleeps. :(

The girls have been doing well, and are no longer sick (at the moment) but my uncle Tom is now sick...

My uncle Tom gave me A CAR!!!!! Yes!! I'm pretty excited I've got to say. ;) Yesterday I took it out on my first drive. It was pretty fun! ;) My parents are going to be driving it out to MO so when I come home I have it there. :)

I will be going home in 8 days for a short visit!! I'm very much excited!!! :D I miss my family so very, very, much.

I think that is about all of "Today's News". :) I'll try to post some pictures of my car soon.

Have a lovely day!!

~Susie

March 24, 2011

2011-03-24T10:11:00.001-07:00

Just a quick note to say that the girls are getting better! Praise the Lord!!

Always when I say that I am not able, I get the same answer from the Lord. He says, “I know you can’t. I have known it already a long time. I am glad now you know it for yourself, for now you can let Me do it.”
~Corrie Ten Boom

This picture makes me laugh! Its my cousin Josh, with his dog named SUSIE, and his cousin SUSIE! His life is full of Susies!!!! ;) hehe he's one lucky kid!!!

The promise of a lifetime

2011-03-22T12:38:00.000-07:00

I have fallen to my knees
As I sing a lullaby of pain
I'm feeling broken in my melody
As I sing to help the tears go away

Then I remember the pledge you made to me

[CHORUS:]
I know you're always there
To hear my every prayer inside
I'm clinging to the promise of a lifetime
I hear the words you say
To never walk away from me and leave behind
The promise of a lifetime

Will you help me fall apart
Pick me up, take me in your arms
Find my way back from the storm
And you show me how to grow
Through the change

I still remember the pledge you made to me

[BRIDGE:]
I am holding on to the hope I have inside
With you I will stay through every day
Putting my understanding aside

And I am comforted

Looking back at me I know that you can see my heart is open to the promise of a lifetime.

I love this, it's like playing house. Except... it's real life.

2011-03-18T09:57:00.000-07:00

This morning I woke up and found my aunt was very sick in bed with the flu. The girls were yelling and the baby was watching them. I suddenly realized that it was up to me get through today. I was kinda worried at first, I've never made the baby's cereal, nor had I ever made Gigi's breakfast before. My aunt always did it. And on top of that I think I've only given a baby a bath 3 times in my life, and here I was... needing to go to the bathroom...very badly.

But the baby needed a diaper change, Gigi needed a diaper change, Jayda needed to go potty, and SO DID I!!!

Rushing to get the diapers changed, I thought I would find a min to run, but no, that would be a joke. Gigi was getting in to the closets, Jayda was messing up her room trying to pick out something to wear and the baby wanted to be held. After getting Jayda dressed, and strapping Gigi into the buster seat, with the baby in the bouncer, I grabbed the baby cereal and started to read how to mix it up. Oh gosh, this was going to be easy, just add water and stick it in the microwave for a min. HA! Nice one Susie. Either I didn't have enough water in it or I cooked it too long, but that stuff came out as hard as a rock. Oh joy! Thankfully after my second try I got it mixed up.

BANG! I looked around to see Gigi had taken her plate of pop-tarts and thrown it, therefore, pop-tarts were ALL over the kitchen. I just left it there and went to pick up the screaming baby, strapped her in her high-chair and started stuffing food in her mouth.

"Susie, I need to go potty again" Jayda said, coming into the kitchen, stepping in all the pop-tarts. "Ok, well can you give me a min, Jay? I realllly need to go too, but I gotta finish with the baby". "I need to go now Susie". *sigh* ok!! Lets go. Putting the baby's food out of reach from Gigi, I ran into the bathroom with Jayda. A min later I came out again only to find Gigi had pulled the whole table-cloth off including the juice that was in a cup for Jay. Which meant, that now not only where there pop-tarts all over the floor, there is juice.

Well it's a good thing we have paper-towels!! After feeding the baby, and putting her in her swing with her bottle, I got started on getting Gigi breakfast. That went well, without anything impressive to write about. But still... I NEEDED TO GO!!! JUST FOR ONE MIN!!! PLEASE!

Giving Gigi a toy, and leaving Jayda to watch a TV show, with the baby asleep in her swing, there was a moment of peace. YES! Finally!! haha. You'd think that bathroom door had some sort of alarm system hooked up to it or something! Because as soon as the door shut, the baby spit out her bottle and started to cry, and Jayda decided that she wanted the toy that Gigi was playing with causing both of the girls to be screaming at each other.

Goodness, My poor aunt, how could she possibly be sleeping through all that noise? Whatever, I ran out and... it was like magic, as soon as they saw me, it was perfectly quiet.

lol. Yeah... It's been an interesting day for sure. Once I got the kitchen all cleaned up, and given the baby her bath, Gigi was fed, and Jayda busy, I was surprised at how quiet things became. I suddenly realized, that no matter how insane things were an hour ago, this is what I am most happy with doing. Being with children.

I love this, it's like playing house. Except... it's real life.

Now you ask... how on earth did you have time to write all that? hehe. Well, the baby and Gigi are asleep and Jayda is resting.

My Cousins

2011-03-17T14:54:00.000-07:00

Once again, I spent a lot of time outside today. It was so beautiful! The boys and I went on a walk. here is a movie of Josh ridding his scooter down a hill.

A promise

2011-03-17T08:44:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 58:11
The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your needs in parched places, and make your bones strong, and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters never fail.

1 Cor. 10:13
...God is faithful and he will not let you be tempted beyond your strength, but with the temptation will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

Philippians 2:13
It is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.

Hi once again

2011-03-16T16:09:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

Things are going well out here in semi-warm Pennsylvania.

The last couple days Gigi started feeling better, (which is good news on from all ends, cause when Gigi isn't feeling well... it makes for very long days.)

Jayda is spending most of her days outside. She loves the outdoors and there is always a boat load of tears when we have to come in for dinner.

Livy is just as healthy and cute and lovable as she could possibly be! She is still working on rolling over, and sitting up on her own. Livy has such an interesting personality. She is almost ALWAYS happy. Except for when she decides she is hungry. She will go from this "happy-go-lucky baby" to this loud, yelling, kicking child. As soon as she gets some food in that big belly of her's, she is once again, the cutest little pumpkin you've ever seen.

Every day this week my cousins, the girls and I have enjoyed long afternoons outside together. I've enjoyed getting to know my little cousins so much. Josh, Ricky, and Johnny have got to be some of the best cousins ever.

The other day I was laughing at myself. Here I am, 19, and for the first time in years I've flown kites, blown bubbles, played ring-around-the rosies, colored pictures of princes, sang the ABC song more times then I can even count, played follow-the-leader, hide-an-seek and clapped more then I can remember. Yeah... I never expected to be doing this at 19. But honestly, I would never want to trade this time for anything.

The girls have become a part of my life. I really don't know how I am just going to be able to ever go home without missing them like awful. The baby's adorable laugh, that is just so contagious that you can't keep from laughing yourself. Gigi's little ornery personality, her eyes that just make you laugh because you can tell exactly what is going through her mind. Jayda and her little hugs, that just melt your heart, and the things she says that are hilarious.

I really am getting attached to them...

Well the girls are getting baths, I need to run.

Much love to all my family and friends in Missouri. I miss you all very much and I hope you are all healthy and happy.

Call me sometimes. I miss you.

~Susie

Special time!

2011-03-13T15:56:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was the first day since I've been here that got out without having the girls around. I went to visit my brother, Dan and his family for the day.

The weather was pretty nice outside, so Dan had the perfect idea for us to go kite flying. It was SO MUCH FUN!

Us girls had a lot of fun walking out through the fields together. Here are a few pictures of yesterday. It was really good to just get away for a few hours and be with family.

2011-03-11T12:56:00.000-08:00

Now is that a face or what? hehe!! It has got to be one of my favorite pictures for sure.

This morning Gigi was being really fussy. My aunt was feeling quite worn out so I took Jayda and Gigi out for a walk down the street. Then we came in for lunch. While I was getting them lunch Gigi was really quiet just watching me. Then once I got their lunch on the table, Gigi started eating...for a few mins. I was getting their drinks and I looked around only to see Gigi's head in her plate. She had totally fallen asleep. lol. It was pretty cute. Sadly I didn't get a picture of it.

After Jayda finished her lunch, and Gigi was sleeping soundly in her bed, I took Jayda and Livy out for about 3 hours. We went swinging and blew bubbles, and played with our other cousins. It was really nice to get outside for a while.

My cousin Josh and I pick on each other all the time. He is great. We have so much fun together. Well, today I stole his hat and he chased me ALL around the yard... well, until he grabbed a bat and started to get too close to me. hehe... then I threw the hat. haha!

Josh is a great cuz for sure. hehe. ;)

Don't you think the hat looks good? ;) hehe.

Signing up for Camp!

2011-03-07T15:48:00.000-08:00

I'm really excited! I got my camp application form today! This summer I wont be able to spend as much time out there as I did the last 2 years. But I am going to get to go for at least 2, (maybe 3) weeks in July. I am so excited! I am taking my cousin Emily out with me! She lives out here in Pennsylvania and will be 16 by then. She is so much fun to be around. Camp is going to be amazing with her. :D

Things have been going pretty well out here. Keeping busy with diapers and bottles. ;)

I haven't taken the girls out the last 2 days. It's been cold again.

I'm really looking forward to getting some warmer weather soon!!

Something really funny happened today. Jayda decided that we were going to switch names. I am Jayda, and she is Susie. Livy is Gigi and Gigi is Livy. So all morning we had to remember to call each other our "new" name. It was so funny. She would come up to me and say, "Jayda!! I need a drink!" I'd say, "Ok Susie, lets go get a drink" And then she'd just laugh and laugh and say, "Jayda, you so silly...."

Haha. I love that girl!

Fresh Air!

2011-03-05T20:41:00.001-08:00

This morning it was so beautiful outside. The kids just had to get out. Jayda was outside nearly all day. Livy got out for a few mins, but it was a little too windy for her. Gigi was out almost the whole morning.

Here is Josh, with his dog named.... Susie. (it is so very strange having a dog with your name. Believe me. Today my cousin's boyfriend, Kevin, said "Susie, your tail is so beautiful".)

Cousin Jon and me :)

Just establishing the fact that we are in charge. :P Ok... maybe not. But still... :P

Jayda's Birthday Party!

2011-03-04T21:40:00.001-08:00

The Happy Birthday girl

She blew out her candles and then looked at everyone and sighed and said,

"Oh, I'm just so happy".

It was simply adorable. It made everyone want to just scoop her up in a hug and take away everything bad that she has gone through.

Here she is with my Grandpa

Grandpa with one of my newest cousins.

My cousin, Katie, feeling rather excited with Jayda's new gift.

Gigi. Poor little girl, she has a fever for the last few days.

Livy and I

My Uncle Joe and Gigi.

Emily, Livy and I

Gigi and her Grandpa. (my Uncle Tom)

Gigi and her Grandma (My Aunt Ginny)

Jayda and my cousin Josh.

Outside!!!

2011-03-03T12:36:00.000-08:00

The last couple days I've been able to take the girls outside. Today it was too chilly to take them out but we are looking forward to the weekend when it should be in the 60s! Yey for Spring!!!

(Sun was bright :P )

Gigi

Gigi and Jayda

Someone is turning 3!!!

2011-03-03T12:14:00.000-08:00

Today is a very big day for Jayda. If you were to ask her how old she is today, she'd hold her fingers up and say, "I'm THREEEE!"

This morning the girls all woke up rather late. (which is a very nice thing actually) I gave Jayda her birthday gift early, because it was going to be her birthday dress. She was so excited. Then she asked me to fix her hair "pretty". She sat very still as I curled her hair. It was pretty cute to watch.

So tonight is the big day. Looking forward to watching her at the party. Hopefully I'll get pictures.

Here's the little lady, feeling quite proud of herself. After all, it takes a lot of work to make it to the age of 3

March 1st.

2011-03-01T18:48:00.000-08:00

Honestly I didn't even know this was the first of March until just now. lol. The days kinda get blended together when you are on the same schedule day in and day out. But its a good blend. ;)

Last night the girls didn't sleep too well, so my poor aunt had to stay up for a while trying to get them to sleep. So this morning we all kinda woke up a little late. I took the girls outside again this morning. Have you ever watched a child when they notice their shadow for the first time? Oh its so adorable! Gigi was running down the road, and I was walking along side of her, then we turned around and the sun was behind us so it made a shadow. Gigi was kinda scared of it at first! She wouldn't walk forward, she kept looking at it, then take some steps backwards, then stomp, than whine at me, and try to walk around it... anyways, it was so funny to watch. I was laughing about that one for the rest of the day.

Jayda's Birthday is on Thursday so around 2 I went to the store with my Aunt Nancy to go birthday shopping. It was fun, and tons of fun to hang out with my aunt.

Tonight the baby, Livy, rolled over again. Second time!! I just love watching them make these steps in life. ;) lol

Well, I don't really have much more to say.

The girls have all had their baths and are tucked away into bed. I'm in my room in the basement just chill'en.

I'm so blessed. So thankful. And So happy that I'm able to be here to help my Aunt Ginny and Uncle Tom with the girls.

Until next time...

Smile!

~Susie

With the girls

2011-02-28T12:37:00.000-08:00

I'm here!

It was wonderful to walk into the house and hear screams of excitement from the girls. I missed them so much.

I don't think the baby remembers me. She cried when I first picked her up. But now she is happy. ;) In fact, this morning I was playing with her on the floor and she rolled over for the first time. It was so funny. I was sitting there, and she was on her belly, and then my aunt was talking to me so I looked up for a min, then when I looked back... there she was! On her back!! I was like, "oh my word!!"

Right now my Aunt is shopping so I am sitting on the couch with Jayda on my lap, Gigi in the play-pen, and Livy sleeping in her swing. It's a nice quite afternoon.

This morning I took Jayda and Gigi outside for a little walk. It was so warm. I was in shorts-sleeves and the girls only had light jackets on. Its so exciting to have warm weather! The grass is turning green out here. I can't wait till spring.

At the Airport

2011-02-27T08:00:00.000-08:00

As I sit here in the airport, watching people rushing by, bags of all different colors and sizes, I am amazed at how few smiles there are in the faces that go flying by.

Try to make eye contact with them... and it hardly works. I have noticed that when you do make eye contact they look at you really weird and you suddenly realized that you are creeping the poor people out.

I have 2 hours till my flight. So I found an empty table and then bought 60 mins of internet and sat down. Over to my right I have noticed that people keep stopping to buy something at a little booth. At first I thought it was just a booth selling little trinkets and hardly even noticed it. But now that I've been sitting here for the last 30 mins... I've suddenly realized that people are flocking around this place. I leaned around to get a better look and... its a lottery booth.

I had no idea, but seeing as I don't have much else to do I decided to watch the people come... it's amazing. They walk by, arms full of bags, eyes straight ahead, walking as fast as their little legs will let them move. It's almost like they can smell the booth or something. I have no idea what makes their head turn right as they pass that booth, but it happens every time. They are attracted to it like a child is to a candy store.

The some how find an extra hand to pull out a $10, $20, and then give it to the lady, get a ticket, and then off they go again....fast-walking, running, almost flying.

I just sit here... watching....

wow.... I'm really doing a lot for the world.

How empty their lives must be.

Well... I just felt like writing about that. I wish there was something I could do.... If only Carl was here with me...

Class Picture!

2011-02-26T19:54:00.000-08:00

Left to right- Sarah, Olivia, Anthony, Zyrek, Laura, Libby, Susie, Cassy, Caleb, Josiah, and James

My last day at class.

2011-02-26T05:40:00.000-08:00

Today is my last day of class. It's been so exciting to learn new things and to see how graphics are made.

I've enjoyed this class so much. On Wed. they told us the "finishing project" we are supposed to do and show off to the class on Saturday. TODAY! We were told to make a business card, (front and back), an email banner, and a poster, to advertise a Coffee Shop. Now, this is actually pretty funny because if you know me, you probably know that I can't stand the taste of coffee. lol. So it was interesting to try to advertise it.

Something that they pointed out that was very important, was to keep consistency with your logo, font, colors, pictures... etc. If you want people to know YOUR business as soon as they see a sign, then keep things the same. You don't want someone to look at your business card and think, "Now is this the same business that is down main street? Cause they both have a different coffee cup on the front." lol. Anyways, I think you know what I mean. So... here is my finished work!

The poster

Email Banner

Business Card - Front

Business Card - Back

This picture is just something that I was playing around with last night. I love the reflection and shadows. They make everything so much fun! Again, I started out with this picture with just a blank background.

Well, this ends my class for PhotoShop, but defiantly NOT my learning.

I fly out of Indiana tomorrow at noon and should be arriving in Pennsylvania around 5 ish. I can't wait to see my girls!!

~Susie

A few more pictures!

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

So, I know this might not look like much, but Hey, it's really exciting to me! I started out with a totally blank page. And this is what I learned today!

Shadows and lines and text and emboss, they made the picture and they were epic!

My Newest Work!

2011-02-23T13:08:00.000-08:00

This picture was supposed be made into a CD cover.

Today I made this picture...

To this.... I'm really quite excited about it.

Hello from Verity

2011-02-22T13:51:00.000-08:00

Hey!

So I am just finishing my second day of class. Now I have a whole load of homework to do... and I'm not too sure about it.

Today they taught us another program besides photoshop. It's called Indesign. It's pretty much a program used for making books, writing newsletters, or newspapers... etc..

I have never heard of the program before. It's been kinda a stretch for me to learn it today. So my homework consist of designing 4 pages that are identical to a book that they gave me. (oh joy)

Hopefully tomorrow we will be able to do more of photoshop. I'm really looking forward to learning more about it. We did some on photoshop today, and it was a blast. But like I said, most of our time was spent on Indesign.

So, I should probably sign off and start getting to work. These are two pictures that I have done already with photoshop. Changing the background, adding effects, putting in text, and adjusting the lighting. It's been loads of fun!

ttfn ~ Susie

Back at Verity

2011-02-20T18:22:00.000-08:00

Hello!

I'm here at Verity College ready to start a week with photoshop. I'm in a dorm room with 5 other girls. From what I can tell, there are going to be a lot of laughs this next week. :)

I really don't have much to say, perhaps in the next few days I will be able to take some pictures.

I really miss my best friend Natty. Here's a picture of her. She's pretty amazing, I've got to say.

One more night... one more night...

2011-02-18T08:15:00.000-08:00

Thats my puppy

I can do this! One more night. One more night. *sigh* I can't wait till 9 tomorrow morning. Believe me. I love my job, but... not when I'm working 2 shifts. Last night I felt like my head was going to burst.

My girls :)

2011-02-17T07:19:00.000-08:00

My Aunt just sent me this picture of "my girls". My second cousins that I nanny. Oh, I miss them so much! I get to see them in a week!! :D Excited? YES! I miss these little "valentines" so much! They are so special and just simply adorable.

Last night went much better as far as getting Flo to bed. She of course got up 5 times to check the lock and then I'm trying to forget the 7 times she came into my room to tell me "Goodnight", but it was a good night, really!

At the moment we are at the gym. (thats the only chance I get to use my internet, so I'm not walking the track this week)

I get off at 12:30 and then my shift starts again at 4:30. So I'm really looking forward to getting a break this afternoon.

Yesterday afternoon was pretty tough, at one point I was almost in tears. How could someone be SO SO Forgetful!? It almost seemed like she was TRYING to be difficult. I was so uptight and I knew I needed to just get a moment to breath, so I got her working on a puzzle and then I went into my room and closed to door and prayed for strength to have understanding for her and to be able to love her for the person she is.

I was able to relax and refocus some and finish my day with out a sour note. Thank you Father.

My big brother is gonna be 21!!!

2011-02-16T08:06:00.000-08:00

Oh my!! ;) lol. My dear brother is going to be 21 on Sunday!!! I can't believe it!!!

I love you Carl!

2011-02-16T07:33:00.000-08:00

Hello on this BEAUTIFUL "Spring" day! Oh, its completely gorgeous outside! I'm so excited!

This week I have to work 90+ hours. Mike, (my boss) is in TX so I have Flo my normal days, plus 5 nights. I've gotten though 2 nights, just 3 more to go. Its really exhausting sometimes, because... first of all, she has something against getting baths. So it went like this,

Susie: "Flo, lets go get ready for a bath"

Flo: "No! I don't want to take a bath!"

Susie: "Well, u have to, so com'on and we will get it over with."

Flo: "NO! I'm not taking a bath"

Susie: "Flo, you smell. You HAVE to take a bath"

(sitting down in a chair and crossing her arms)

Flo: "I WILL NOT get in that tub. I do not smell"

(taking her arm and leading her to the bathroom)

Susie: "We will be over in a min. Let's just get it done with."

Flo: "I decided something last night"

Susie: "What did you decide?"

Flo: "That I'm not going to be bossed around any more"

Susie: "well, you are just going to have to get over it, because YOU ARE taking a bath RIGHT now."

Flo: "Who made YOU the boss?"

Susie: "Mike did"

Flo: "Hump!" I'm gonna ask him!

Susie: "ok, you do that, but in the mean time, we are getting a bath".

the end of the story... Flo got a bath.

So... pretty much, I'm looking forward very much to the weekend. :)

Wishing for a spring time day

2011-02-12T09:12:00.000-08:00

"Spring is when you feel like whistling even with a shoe full of slush."

An amazing quote that Katie posted. I had to steal it.

2011-02-11T10:45:00.001-08:00

‎"I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do." -Edward Everett Hale

Friends

2011-02-09T08:47:00.000-08:00

I just thought I'd post this picture. I thought it was pretty cute. Love those girls!

More snow? Seriously?

2011-02-09T08:35:00.000-08:00

*sigh*... yes, even me, the one who LOVES snow, is now... ready for it all to end. I'm more then ready for Spring, and flip-flops.

At the moment I'm at the gym, Flo is sitting beside me reading the paper. I'm hoping to kill about 20 more mins here before we have to go out in the cold again. I really dislike taking Flo out in the snow, I'm always so worried she is going to slip or something.

Yesterday was the first time in a LONG time that I spent ALL day at home. I loved it!! It was perfect! I really miss not being at home more. So I made pizza for my family at lunch. It was really fun. I love too cook!

Well, I don't really have much to say for now, so... cya.

P.S. This picture was taken the week before Joel and Ashley got married. All my sisters and my mom and I went out to eat. Fun times.

Going back

2011-02-05T20:33:00.000-08:00

Yes! I'm going back east on the 20th! I'll be going back to my college for a week long class, then flying on out to PA again to be with the girls. I'm gonna miss my family so much, but then... right now I miss the girls a ton, I feel torn either way.
Yesterday I picked up my niece Zoe, and called her Jayda. I had a dream of the girls the other night too. I really, really miss them.

This next week I am going to be working double time. My boss is going to TX so I have Flo night and days. It will be a long week but probably one of my last. :( I don't know how much longer I will be working with Flo. When I go to PA I have no return trip as of right now. I don't know how long God wants me to be out there, but I do know he wants me to go back, so I just take one day at a time, and let him plan the future. Isn't our God wonderful?

One of my favorite Country songs

2011-02-04T15:14:00.000-08:00

The moment was custom-made to order:

I was ridin' with my daughter on our way back from Monroe.

An' like children do, she started playin' twenty questions,

But I never could've guessed one would touch me to my soul.

She said: "Daddy, when we get to Heaven, can I taste the Milky Way?

"Are we goin' there to visit, or are we goin' there to stay?

"Am I gonna see my Grandpa? Can I have a pair of wings?

"An' do you think that God could use another Angel,

"To help pour out the rain?"

Well, I won't lie: I pulled that car right over,

An' I sat there on the shoulder tryin' to dry my misty eyes.

An' I whispered: "Lord, I wanna thank you for my children.

"'Cause your innocence that fills them often takes me by surprise."

Like: "Daddy, when we get to Heaven, can I taste the Milky Way?

"Are we goin' there to visit, or are we goin' there to stay?

"Am I gonna see my Grandpa? Can I have a pair of wings?

"An' do you think that God could use another Angel,

"To help pour out the rain?"

Well, I thought about it later on,

An' a smile came to my face.

An' when I tucked her in to bed,

I got down on my knees an' prayed.

Lord, when I get to Heaven, can I taste the Milky Way?

"I don't wanna come to visit 'cause I'm comin' home to stay?

"An' I can't wait to see my family and meet Jesus face to face.

"An' do you think, Lord, you could use just one more Angel,

"To help pour out the rain?"

Mmmm, can I help pour out the rain?

Leaving PA for WI

2011-02-02T16:50:00.000-08:00

I rode out to Wisconsin with Dan and Linda. It was a 19 hour long trip, so the conversations were very interesting at times.

Quotes from our trip to WI

· S. “My cousin, Uncle Jon.”

· A. “My umbilical-cord is broken!”

· S. “We smell sticks”

@ 9:15 we stopped for a potty break, we went into this huge empty building and Ashlyn said with passion, “They should fill this building with people!” We made our way, through the emptiness, on to the bathrooms. The bathrooms were shocking indeed. Upon entering the bathroom, and walking down the rows and rows of stalls, Susie picked one that looked perfect for her, but… I’ll tell you that stall had issues, Susie couldn’t even sit down on that stinking thing! It flushed on its own at least 6 times!!! While trying to get a moment to sit down, it was splashing all over the place, this caused moments of loud emotions from the poor individual locked in the stall. Also it caused great amusement from Ashlyn, who was listening to the commotion in the next stall. I’m pleased to say that they did finally make all of the “appointments” that they needed to make, without any accidents. This pretty much ends the first EPIC adventure.

· A. P- is for pathetic plaza players - and we won!!

· S. “can I count your hairs?”

· S. “I don’t do legs”

Light wars with our feet.

@ 10:58 we had our second bathroom break. Walking into the building, Ashlyn yells out, “SUSIE! THERE ARE PEOPLE!” Yes… we did get some rather odd looks.

Wedding pictures and more post coming soon

2011-02-02T11:57:00.000-08:00

Just a little note to let ya'll know that I have arrived at home, and I'm going to try to post some pictures and news as soon as I can. :D For now, enjoy this picture of my brothers. (adopted ones too)

I'm leaving :(

2011-01-27T07:34:00.000-08:00

My last morning with the girls. awww... I've been trying to explain to Jayda that I'm leaving and I wont be back for a while. I'm not sure that she understands it all.

I can't believe it went by so fast. Its been unbelievably amazing. I'm so thankful that God worked this out. God is amazing, isn't he?

So, we are leaving tomorrow around 3 in the morning for Wisconsin. burr, its gonna be freezing cold.

Well I need to go, tfn ;)

~Susie

January 23,

2011-01-23T15:10:00.000-08:00

Babies, bottles, diapers, baby-songs, diapers, potty-training, diapers, bottles, spit-up, blankets, and diapers, toys, diapers, and oh, diapers.

I wouldn't trade all that for anything, 'cause of the joy that it has given me. I've been so blessed to be able to touch these little girl's lives.

How wonderful the Lord is to me, to give me this opportunity to give a little of the love that He has given me, to a child, so precious and beautiful as these.

I know without a doubt, that My God is always going to be with these girls. No matter what they face in life, He will always be there, watching them, and taking care of them, with his perfect love.

I don't know what to say, other than, "Thank you Father".

~Susie

Just one more week?

2011-01-21T19:33:00.000-08:00

Is that for real? Wow! It seems to have gone by in a flash.

In a week from tomorrow my brother is going to be married. YEY!

Linda is going to be picking me up this Thursday and we'll be leaving for WI Friday around 3 in the morning.

I'm seriously thinking of coming back sometime in Feb. Well, we'll talk about that later, for now I need to go catch the 18 month old, she is getting into EVERYTHING!

Christmas!

2011-01-15T16:52:00.000-08:00

Some pictures from Linda's visit.

2011-01-15T16:44:00.000-08:00

Tornado hits and love is spread

2011-01-15T16:32:00.000-08:00

I don't know if I really said anything about the tornado that hit a few weeks ago in Rolla, MO. But anyways, I was locked in Wal-mart for about 2 hours while it was going though our town.

After the disaster my nieces, Carl and I wanted to do something to show that we were praying for the people who lost their homes.

So the girls made cookies and then Carl took them out to pass them out to the people. They said that the people we so excited to see them.

It just reminded me how much a "little thing" such as a plate of cookies means to someone when they are going though a hard time. Just a little something to show that they are loved and being prayed for.

January 12,

2011-01-12T15:55:00.000-08:00

It's been a few days. So last night it SNOWED again, and now we have around a foot of snow laying on this beautiful earth. ;) lol.

This afternoon I took Jayda out to play in the snow, we made a snowman!

Ever since I left MO my throat has been feeling so very strange, not really sore, just kinda swollen. Well, last night my throat swelled up so tightly it hurt to swallow. The pain was so bad I couldn't go to sleep until after 3 sometime. I was even in tears at one point. phew... it was a long night. But I'm so thankful for my Aunts that all brought me herbs and things to help me this morning. I feel so much better now! Praise the Lord. I can tell my throat still isn't all the way better, but compared to last night, its amazing!

The baby

GiGi

Jayda and me

My cousins

Jayda

January 9th.

2011-01-09T14:44:00.001-08:00

Once again I'm back to my online journal. ;) Today went by really well. I decided not to go to church this morning, instead I stayed and helped with the girl. I'm going to try to go next Sunday. Hopefully all the girls will go to.

After Church I went walked down the hill with Jayda, (the 2 year old) to eat lunch with my other cousins and Aunts and Uncles. I hung out there till about 3, just visiting and talking. It was fun.

Then Jayda and I came back home and we were watching veggi tales when Jayda fell asleep on me. It was so sweet, I held her for about 20 mins and then carried her out to the family room and she woke up.

I managed to take 2 pictures today, but I haven't gotten them off my camera yet. Anyways. Hopefully soon I'll be able to post them :)

I'm telling you, these girls are adorable.

So I think thats all for now.

~Susie.

January 8th

2011-01-08T17:51:00.000-08:00

Today was my first full day to be working with the girls. Oh, did I say in my last post anything about the girls being adorable? lol. I love them so much.
We got a lot more snow today, (I don't know how much) and so this morning I took the 2 year old, Jayda, out in the snow to play. It was really fun, we made snow angels, and snow balls and tried to make a snowman but the snow was too fluffy. We went sledding and Jayda loved it SO MUCH! It was so cute.
I'm really tired but it was a great day. I love these girls! :)

Missing my friends and family from home, so I was looking at a few pictures on my lap-top and I found the one above. It was taken this summer at a camp-out.

Well... goodnight for now.
God Bless

I'm here :)

2011-01-07T20:22:00.000-08:00

Hi peoples :)

This morning I got up... and guess what?!?! There was snow! :) Happy me!

Anyways

I hung out talking, laughing, and shopping with Linda and the girls till about 2 this afternoon, when they dropped me off at my Aunt's house. So, to be honest here, I was pretty nerves about coming. I wasn't sure what to expect with the girls and what-not. But the girls are just as cute as can be and I fell in love with them the moment I saw them. Their big eyes, and that darling little giggle, oh, I just don't know how I am going to leave them. They have totally stolen my heart.

Tonight after the girls had been bathed and put to bed, I came to my room and unpacked. I'm staying in the basement and its a really cute little room with the cutest quilt on the bed ever! Oh yes, and my grandma sent over a teddy bear for me and, lol. hehe... he's pretty cute. I'm trying to get a name for him. :P ;) lol! ;)

So now I have my bags emptied and a few pictures stuck up of my loved ones back home, and I'm pretty much ready for bed. I'm so tired and I hear there is supposed to be more snow tomorrow! :)

Much love

~Susie.

Interview with Ashlyn.

2011-01-06T18:20:00.000-08:00

(S) Ashlyn, Whats the first question?

(A) ummm... * shrugs shoulder* something about myself?

(S) How old are you today, and how old will you be when you wake up tomorrow?

(A) umm... can I have a calculator for this question? 14 today...14 tomorrow.

(S) Ash, on a scale of one to ten, with ten being perfectly full and one completely starving, how would you rate yourself at this moment?

(A) 8.

(S) If you could have one dream come true, what would it be?

(A) hmmm.... that is really hard. *thinking* To be in the Cirque du Soleil! (Dance/Gymnastics)

(S) Who is your favorite character from Nemo?

(A) Dory, we have so much in common.

(S) Do you think you could ever understand the things that might have been going though Dory's mind when she was talking "whale"?

(A) "Do you think they would really believe me if I said I could really talk to whales?"

(S) Have you ever talked to whales?

(A) No, but I have talked to guys, do they count?

(S) *cough* moving on. Ever wanted to go skydiving?

(A) No. I am not going to die falling from the sky.

(S) What would be your "dream death?" (What a morbid question I know!)

(A) In my sleep.

(S) So. Ashlyn. How many children do you want?

(A) 10. Six of my own. Four adopted.

(S) Do you have a nickname?

(A) many. Porky. Butterball. Miss Thang. Miss Dance. annnd Ash. Deary. sugar. squirt. frying pan. NUT. Caption Obvious. Drama Queen. and...others that I cannot remember at the moment.

(S) So do you have anything that you think you could hold someone up with Blackmail?

(A) um... not really. I know some things but nothing that would really "eat them".

(S) What time are you planning on going to bed?

(A) umm... when you go to bed?

(the interview is going to end now then.) :P LOL.

Thank you Ashlyn for letting us pry your cute little head for a few mins.

January 6,

2011-01-05T07:48:00.000-08:00

Good morning Friends,

I'm in Pennsylvania now. I got here about... umm probably about an hour ago. I was so tired last night as we started out, so Linda drove from 6:30 to midnight, and then I drove from then till 5:30, when we switched again and she drove till 8:00 and then, lol, we switched again and I finished the trip, arriving here around 10:40 am.

I just got out of the shower and now I'm feeling much more refreshed but I think I still need to just go crash in a bed or something. :P

So there is a song thats been on my mind all night...

This is a song for anyone who's ever been
Knocked down, can't get back again
Stuck in the corner, can't move forward
All alone and you think you're going nowhere

This is a song for anyone who's ever stood
Underneath the sun and felt so small
Two feet tall and so out of place

He sees you
He knows you, He loves you
And He wants you to know that

The life you've been livin'
The days that you've been givin'
Were made for something beautiful
Life, don't let it pass you by
Because you were created
For something beautiful

Heaven holds a dream that's just for you
And there are things only you can do
So step by faith, put the past away
It'll take you to a better day

Second to minute to hour to life
Time always seem to fly
It's on the go and before you know
Your days are through

But He sees you
He knows you, He loves you
And He wants you to know that

The life you've been livin'
The days that you've been givin'
Were made for something beautiful
Life, don't let it pass you by
Because you were created
For something beautiful

The life you've been livin'
The days that you've been givin'
Were made for something beautiful
Life, don't let it pass you by
Because you were created
For something beautiful

The life you've been livin'
The days that you've been givin'
Were made for something beautiful
Life, don't let it pass you by
Because you were created
For something beautiful

What are you waiting for?
What are you waiting for?
What are you waiting for?
There's something beautiful

What are you waiting for?
What are you waiting for?
What are you waiting for?
Something beautiful

I don't know if anyone really enjoys the songs that I post, but I find so much comfort in them, and I am encouraged by them. :)

The two eldest and holding the 2 youngest.

2011-01-05T07:42:00.000-08:00

Two people that make me smile

2011-01-05T07:39:00.001-08:00

January 5,

2011-01-05T04:09:00.000-08:00

So I'd say that I'm about half-way packed. :) I'm about to head off to work all day, hopefully when I come back at 5 I can finish stuffing my bags. ;)

Thank you to whoever was praying for me, God took me by the hand and lead me though this hard time. I just really didn't understand why the right thing had to be so hard. But, now that I've done what I knew was right, I feel an amazing sense of peace. But that peace didn't come without tears and heart ache. I'm just so thankful to be where the Lord wants me. The joy that it gives is ...perfect.

So, I'm leaving tonight for a 17 hour trip. I'm exhausted and I feel like I'm coming down with something cause my throat really hurts, hopefully I will be alert and be able to help with the driving a lot.

Here is a song that has meant a lot to me the last few days...

I'm Letting Go Lyrics

My heart beats standin' on the edge
My feet have finally left the ledge

Like it, I go by
There's no turning back

(Chorus)
I'm letting go
Of the life I've planned for me,
And my dreams
I'm losing control
Of my destiny
It feels like I'm fallin in
That's what it's like to believe
So I'm letting go

This is a giant leap of faith
Trusting, I'm trying to not break

I feel I'm leaping on,
Beyond my comfort zone

(Chorus)

Giving in to gravity
Boy you are whole in me
I'm not afraid

(Chorus)

It feels like I'm falling in,
This is the life for me

And I'm letting go

Whoa yeah

It feels like I'm fallin in
That's what it's like to believe

It feels like I'm falling in,
This is the life for me

January 3,

2011-01-03T08:12:00.000-08:00

Hello.

Yeah, I kinda skipped a few days. Linda and the girls are here visiting till Wednesday.

I work all day today and Wednesday and then Wednesday night I'm going back to Pennsylvania with Linda.

I've been so busy! I'll try to write more once I get to PA. But I doubt I'll be able to write much this week.

I would like to ask you all to pray for me, I'm kinda going though some things right now and just pray that I will place my steps in the Fathers footprints.

December 31,

2010-12-31T06:34:00.001-08:00

The last day in 2010.

I believe its been the most amazing year of my life. I stand amazed by the never ending love of my Savior.

Onto a slightly different note...

I would like to ask for prayer for my Grandmother. (my dad's step mom). Her health has been failing for the last few years, and... she is not expected to be with us for much longer.

Happy New Years! May God be with each and everyone this next coming year, 2011!

December 30,

2010-12-30T06:17:00.001-08:00

Friendship. Its such a wonderful thing. I really don't like to think of where my life would be if it wasn't for my friends, who always stuck by me in the thick and the thin, and kept me strong and reminded me to stay focused on the Lord and His plan for my life.

I'm just thinking about my friendship with my niece Ashlyn today, I miss her so much. She lives in PA. When we hang out people think that we are sisters. Its so much fun. I feel so blessed.

We both are kinda crazy and we aren't afraid to do "off the wall" things. lol. I'm really excited I get to see her this weekend! Who knows what we might do. haha. ;) Don't you just wish you knew? :P

December 29,

2010-12-29T03:57:00.000-08:00

Natty and me this summer. :)

Goodmorning,

I didn't get a chance to write yesterday, but nothing really happened. :) lol. I always get Tuesdays off so I was just working around the house. Actually, a lot happened, like, I almost fell into the freezer today, (hehe. I know, try to figure that one out) and, I worked on the slideshow for Dave's wedding which gave me a headache after looking at the computer so long, so I went on a walk. lol. yeah, it was a good day. Lots of laughs with my family. :)

Today, however, I'm going to work in 30 mins. I want to ask you all to pray for my dearest friend, Natty and her family today. I don't feel like I need to go into much detail, God knows what is going on, but I just ask that if you could try to make a point in praying for a miracle to happen today.

God is in control, and he will take care of His children.

So, with that all said I need to quickly run and finish getting ready for work.

Much love to all~Susie.

December 27,

2010-12-27T16:07:00.000-08:00

So today was a long day at work. Flo was very cantankerous, in fact, I don't believe she has ever been THIS bad.

Sometimes I just have to stop, take a deep breath, and remember that she really has no control over her thoughts. Poor lady... it really must be so confusing and frustrating, to have a young person always "bossing you around" or telling you "no".

oh, and by the way, plans changed last night so I never did get to go bowling. Kinda a bummer. :( so no score to tell about. ;)

This song has been on my heart today. I had never heard it until this summer when my friend, Natty, played it at camp. I fell in love with it right away. It is my prayer, and its so beautiful.

Draw me close to You
Never let me go
I lay it all down again
To hear You say that I'm Your friend

You are my desire
No one else will do
'Cause nothing else could take Your place
To feel the warmth of Your embrace
Help me find the way
Bring me back to You

You're all I want
You're all I've ever needed
You're all I want
Help me know You are near.

December 26,

2010-12-26T15:34:00.000-08:00

So I trust everyone had a great Christmas. I know I did! :) I got a box from my friend Natty, and it totally just made my day. ;)

Yesterday afternoon some of my brothers and I went outside in the snow. It was so cold so we probably only lasted 20 mins total, but it was fun just the same ;)

This morning I woke up at 8 and kinda walked around the house doing nothing till 10, and then I suddenly realized that I needed to be leaving for church in about 20 mins! hehe. So then it was a rush to get my room cleaned up and a shower and eat, but hey! I did it! And I was still on time for church. ;)

My boss called me in asking me to come work today for a few hours. So right after Church I went to work till 5. Now, I'm getting ready to head out the door to go bowling with Carl and a friend of his!

This will be kinda interesting, seeing as I'm totally AWFUL with bowling. ha. ha. Do I dare promise to tell you my score tomorrow? hehe.... hmmm.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T09:55:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! Snow! Snow! ;)

Well, I'm just at Dave's with Carl, Andy and Amy and the kids. Amy and I have a bunch of food to make and with a pile of movies and a stack of games, we are getting ready for a fun, relaxing day. :)

Have a very Merry Christmas!

December 23,

2010-12-23T19:14:00.000-08:00

Good evening,

I got off work today at 12:30 pm. Then came home to finish wrapping the last of my gifts and I started on the slideshow for David's wedding. I have all of their childhood pictures scanned in. So now the joys of sorting them though the years with the correct years.

Tonight Carl and I went to Joel and Ashley's house to visit with them. It was great to see them and laugh and hang out together. We didn't stay too late because poor Joel and Ash still aren't feeling 100%.

We left around 7:40 and Carl and I headed to South Central Creamery, to talk over a little ice cream.

Now I'm getting ready to end my day, by wishing you a Merry Christmas Eve's of Eve.

~Susie

Kinda like an online journal.

2010-12-22T17:46:00.000-08:00

With winter setting in and snow days coming near, I have some extra time in the evenings, so I've decided to start *trying* to be more faithful in my blogging. Kinda just share a thought I had that day, or a verse I read during my quite time. It can be like my online journal. :)

As most of you know, I love to journal. In fact, I love to write all together. Then again, as most of you know, my spelling is pretty sad. lol. So... ;) this may be rather interesting. :)

Today was the first day in 3 days that I have been able to talk with somewhat of a decent voice. :) I must say, I think I've shocked my family at how quiet I am capable of being.

Carl, Ben, Eli and I all just finished watching a movie called, "Race to Space". It was an older family movie, kinda funny, but a lot of kid humor.

So I don't know how many of you have heard, but we are all waiting for Ben's dog to have puppies. She is as fat as can be. No one really knows what kind of puppies they will be though. The mother is a black Lab, but... the father? ...that remains a mystery.

I found a picture of random puppies online. I thought that it was kinda cute. ;)

2010-12-21T21:36:00.000-08:00

This song is very special to me. I listen to it often and it always encouraged me to stay strong, and be faithful to Christ. I put in italics the verses that mean the most to me.

While I'm Waiting :

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait

I will move ahead, bold and confident
Takeing every step in obedience
While I'm waiting
I will serve You
While I'm waiting
I will worship
While I'm waiting
I will not faint
I'll be running the race
Even while I wait

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it's not easy
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve you while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting on You, Lord

Its supposed to be a White Christmas!

2010-12-21T18:08:00.000-08:00

I've just checked the weather and YES! It is supposed to snow Christmas Eve!

I'm so very excited.
I just love the snow!

This is a picture from last year looking up our driveway.

Thanksgiving! I know.. kinda late ;)

2010-12-21T17:24:00.000-08:00

After it rained nearly all morning, it started to snow around the time we sat down for dinner. Our first snow of the year.

The kids loved watching it come down.

Someones plate

Someone is camera shy.

We were all so excited to have my brother Dan, from PA join us for Thanksgiving dinner.

Of course, there has never been a Thanksgiving that I can remember where we didn't have guns.

Oh yes, and the jeep is a huge part of our Thanksgiving fun.

I think thats about all of the pictures from Thanksgiving :)

Its beginning to feel a lot like Christmas!

2010-12-21T16:03:00.001-08:00

The last few days I've been finding out what its like to live in "mute" mode. I started losing my voice on Sunday night. I thought for sure it would be fine in the morning, but... Monday morning, when I got up for work I couldn't say a thing. In fact, my mom had to call my boss to let him know that I couldn't come into work.

So.. with no work and trying to find things to do while resting, I started writing our Family News Letter. It's always so funny to me how we can have a full and exciting year, but when it comes to asking each family member for a little "about me", no one can think of anything. In fact, all I could get from my brother David, who is getting married in a month, was "nothing, there's not really anything going on".

See... ;) this is what its like to live with brothers. ;) Now... if I had a sister who was getting married in a month, I'm sure she would have written me a book to put in the news letter. :) lol.

Anyways, So today my voice has some volume to it, but not very much. Hopefully tomorrow things will be better. I told my boss that I'd be at work.

Can you believe Christmas is in like 4 days?? I believe my brothers and I and a few friends are just going to be hanging out at Dave's house, playing games, watching movies, eating all day, and maybe... if we happened to have a white Christmas we would go outside and make snow angels ;) lol. But... I don't even know if there is Snow on the forecast.

Last weekend I went with my brothers and of course their families, to Silver Dollar City. It was so much fun. I have some pictures but I haven't really had a chance to post them yet.

I think my family is sitting down for dinner so I better end this for now ;)

Much love!

~Susie Q

(i have no idea where the Q comes from... but some people in my family add it... so... there ya go.)

Hanging out last Sunday

2010-12-19T14:24:00.000-08:00

Random Pictures from random years

2010-12-10T05:48:00.000-08:00

I've been going though a ton of old pictures, and found some that I totally forgot about. I thought that you all might enjoy seeing some.

Carl and Andy in Mass. (I think the year was 2008.)

Brotherly love here. ;)

Poor guy...

Goodness, his eyes really do look awful!

Ohhh What a guy! He got free! And... he climbed the tree!

I made all the matching dresses in 2007...?)

Andy and Amy (2008... ? I think.)

Me and Becca H. On a motorcycle ride with my brothers.

Ryley. 2009.

Grace and I. Easter 2009.

Susie. Picking red-buds. 2009.

Andy and Amy. Easter 2009.

Hosanna, Joel, and Katie. Easter 2009

Rachel and Tom.

Susie and Alyssa

Ashlyn and Susie.

Joel, Mark H. David S. Carl, and... I think thats Andy. haha, can't really tell.

Amy, Susie, and Ashlyn...in the tree.

Andy and Ryley. I love it, Ryley is eating the tree!

Family pictures in a tree! (Andy, Amy, and Ryley. 2009...?)

Carl, David H. and Mark H. (I think in 2009)

Day with Bethany

2010-12-10T05:40:00.000-08:00

It's been so long since I've had a day just to hang out with Bethany, (my niece). So yesterday I only had to work half a day and then Bethany and I had the rest of the afternoon together. We went to wal-mart and got pictures taken together, (we will get them on the 17th) and then we went to a book store in Rolla, cause we both love to read. Then we went to South Central Creamery and talked for a while. Then around 3:30 we went to the farm and went horse back ridding. It was cold, but tons of fun. We went ridding down our county road and the sun was setting, the colors we just beautiful.
I am so blessed to have a niece, (who is almost a teenager) who I can spend time with and make memories together. It was a very special day. <3 Love you Beth <3

My puppy, Coco, that I've had for almost a year. Isn't he so cute?

Pictures speak louder than words.

2010-12-09T19:36:00.000-08:00

Dave and Becca will be married Jan. 30th, 2011. Super excited to get sister number 6!!

Black Friday Shopping!

2010-12-09T19:18:00.000-08:00

So, I know this post is a little late, but, hey! Better late then never, right?
This was the 3rd year that my sister, Amy, and I have gone shopping together. It's always so much fun, and this year we got some great deal! I was so excited to get a pair of winter boots. I've been looking and looking for a pair I really liked and... FINALLY!! I found just want I was wanting for a decent price! Also, I got some great deals on Christmas gifts...but... I can't post pictures of them. sry. :P
Of course Amy's two precious children were with us, and ...well, lets just say, we all kinda looked like we had gotten up at 2 am. (which we did) But the kids were great! They were real, true, hard-core, shoppers. ;)

I love this one of Ryley! ;)

Just looking back 2 years ago

2010-12-02T04:24:00.000-08:00

Just looking back a some pictures from a couple years ago. Ashley is now married, and the best part about it...is my sister!!! Elise has grown up and has moved away, :( and Alyssa and I are still pretty much at the same place. ;) I'm excited because this weekend I am going over to Alyssa's house to have a sleepover! It will be a ton of fun! <3
Thats all for now, gotta run to work! ~Susie Q

Steping out in Faith

2010-12-01T19:25:00.000-08:00

I am fully assured that what God has promised, He will also be able to perform.

Just thinking about that promise today as I look at the changes that the Lord is making in my life. God is so good to me. I am resting in his love and trusting in his path.
~Susie

I'm moving for a time!

2010-11-24T12:58:00.000-08:00

Yes, its as true as winter is cold, I'm moving to Pennsylvania January 2nd. I'm going to be living with my Aunt and working as a nanny taking care of my second cousins, named Jayda (2 1/2), GiGi (1 1/2) and Livy (3 months).

I've been praying about this and my parents are encouraging me to go forward and try it out for at least a month. I'm thinking long term I'll be there maybe though the Spring... or even perhaps summer. I'm not really sure, I guess we will just see how it all works out.
Please pray for me as it will defiantly be a HUGE change. I feel like my life is about to turn upside down. What am I doing going back out to PA to nanny? I already did that before and nothing good came from it. (that was because I went for the wrong reasons but still.) Sometimes I think I am going completely insane to go leave my family, who I love so dearly, and move out there again, to be the "mother" for 3 little girls in dippers???
But I believe that God is making this happen, and I am trusting him even though things seem really hard to understand right now.
About 2 weeks ago God started to show me that my present job that I have right now was coming to a close, and then suddenly this need came up for me to help with my cousins, and I have waited to see if God would open all the doors to make it possible and He has. Everything has worked out.
My parents and I believe this is what God wants me to do, and I am willing to do whatever he has for me on this new adventure.
For the next month, with all the Holiday craziness going on I am still going to be working as a caretaker 4 days a week. In the mean time my family and I have some fun things planned for the rest of November and in December.
* Thankgiving
* Black Friday Shopping
* Cookie exchange
* Christmas caroling
* Family gift exchange
Well, I know there is more but I just got a call that I need to run into work, so... Thats all for now!
~Susie

My Trip to OK :)

2010-11-24T11:57:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday I went on my first real road trip by myself. Well, I did have my friend Joanna with me, but I was the only one that could drive so it made it seem like I was all alone on this big road with only me and my GPS. (ok, so I did have 3 maps in the back seat if for some reason I needed them) lol But anyways, I went to spend 4 days with my friend Nathania Tyler and her parents. I had so much fun with them, even if they did tease me non-stop my whole visit! :P lol. I am so blessed to have my friendship with Natty.

I dropped Joanna off at a friends house about 3 hours from Natty's home. Below is a picture of Joanna and I. The GPS took us wayyyy out in the country and we came to this one way bridge and it just cracked us up so much we decided it needed a picture. I tell ya, those GPS's. haha. They make life interesting for sure!

Natty and I <3

Coming soon!

2010-11-19T21:04:00.000-08:00

Hey guys!
I got back from my trip to OK last night. It was so much fun! I had the best 4 days I've had in a long time!!!
I have a lot of pictures to post, but I'm kinda too tired to try to do it tonight.
So... this was just a little note to say, "Goodnight" ;) ~Susie

P.S. The picture is from a few years ago. And I just updated Picasa so I was trying out some of the new fun things! :)

Time for Dress up!

2010-11-11T21:34:00.000-08:00

Weekend with my brother and his family

2010-11-11T21:23:00.000-08:00

On Saturday my brother, Dan, and his wife, Linda, and their girls and I, went on a walk through the beautiful fall woods.

Just us girls <3

My big brother! I love him so much <3

My Cousins

2010-11-11T20:56:00.000-08:00

All the little guys and me together. :)

Katie, what a cute little girl she is. One day something almost happened to her that scared me to death. We were all outside and the kids were ridding their bikes, Molly, age 3, was pushing Katie on a bike and they started to head for a hill, which, at the bottom of the hill was a pond. Well, I called out to Molly to tell her not to go any closer to the hill, but as I called her she stopped and turned around to listen to me, letting go of Katie on the bike... I watched for a moment in shock as I saw Katie's bike go faster and faster down the hill, I suddenly stated to run making a leap I went sliding down the hill right along side of the bike, catching it moments before it went into the water. Believe me, I was shaking as I carried little 2 year old Katie back up the hill.

Caleb, what a little guy he is. I loved that little man! He totally captured my heart from the first day we had together. :)

Brigette, my amazing cousin. I was so impressed by her, she amazed me every day with her patience, love to her children, and sweet spirit to her hubby. And of course, the little baby, Hope :)

Molly and Katie.

"Can I taste the Milky Way?"

2010-11-09T09:36:00.000-08:00

Have you ever heard the song, "Help pour out the Rain?" Its one of my favorite songs and every time I look in the night sky and see the Milky Way, I think about that song.
"Lord, when I get to Heaven, can I taste the Milky Way?
"I don't wanna come to visit 'cause I'm comin' home to stay.
"An' I can't wait to see my family and meet Jesus face to face.
"An' do you think, Lord, you could use another Angel,
"To help pour out the rain?"
Anyways, I was just thinking about that last night.

I still have more pictures to post of my trip, but I honestly haven't had time to upload them yet.
I'm working on it though, trust me. In the next few days I will try to get them on here because before I know it I will have to start posting pictures from my next trip! I'm leaving Sunday to go visit my friend Nathania, (or better known as Natty) It is going to be a short trip, only 4 days, and then that will probably end my travels for a few months. (sadly)

Even with all my traveling and staying busy with work, (Im working 75 hours this week) and trying to keep up with what is going on in my family (Joel has Mono), I am trying to find time every night to still work with code for web-site design. Believe me, I really don't know what I am doing when it comes to code, but when something works, I get so excited, I'd think its probably pretty comical to watch me.

So, I am sitting here, in my newly painted room, with new curtains and new blinds, looking out my window which faces the barn and the big old walnut tree, and counting down the months until I should expect to feel warm again. Does anyone feel the same about winter as I do? I LOVE snow. That is something that I don't believe will ever change, but, why can't we have snow without the cold??? *wishful sigh* Perhaps in heaven! ;) ;)

Well, There is a lot going on and so much to write about I really don't know where to start, but I am sorry to say that it wont be today, cause I just realized that I need to go make lunch. :) So maybe tomorrow, or maybe the next, but don't be surprised if its not right away. ;)
~Susie~

PA...at last... My favorite State :)

2010-10-26T12:00:00.000-07:00

My wonderful sister-in-law, Linda came and picked me up from Maria's and brought me to her house Saturday night.
We had a nice evening just being together as girls, painting nails and talking together.
Sunday morning we went to a church near by and the fall colors were just so beautiful I had to get pictures of the girls :)

The land in PA is just so beautiful! I don't think I will ever stop loving PA! :)
I love the barns <3

And the rows and rows of corn are just so beautiful to me! I love it all. :) :)

Done with college and moving on out East!

2010-10-26T11:51:00.000-07:00

Friday evening I got out of class at 5:15 and then rushed to get my bags and say my goodbyes to everyone and hurry off to the airport to catch my 7:12 pm flight.

I arrived in Baltimore, Maryland, around 9 and my dear friend, Maria, picked me up shortly after. Maria and I have been friends for a really long time. When we were 8 we lived really close to each other and then after she moved back east we kept in touch all these years. Maria married an awesome guy 2 years ago and 2 months ago brought the most beautiful little girl into the world. Her name is Julianna Nicole Torres. It was so good to see Maria and meet her little girl! I'm just sad that we only had less then one day to spend with each other.

more of the college

2010-10-26T11:28:00.000-07:00

Nicole and I! (she was one of my classmates) And a very awesome classmate too. :)

We tried to get class pictures in our classroom and.... fail! they looked awful! Btw, they are all around my desk... there is a reason for that :P It seemed like they were always around my desk, helping me with all my issues. ;) lol.

So... then we got pictures at a park near by, and they turned out much better... just kinda dark. Oh well... we tried. ;)

One night after class my roommate, Emily, was going to make cookies and she invited me to help her. It was so much fun, around midnight we were just in this HUGE kitchen making cookies, and .... yes.... singing Christmas Songs. ;) ;)

Isn't she so cute!?!?! ;)

Kinda a normal expression I had most of the class... "I'm confused"

2 of my roommates! They were the best roommates EVER! We had so much fun together and they were a huge support to me when I came in from class and felt discouraged about the class, they totally were amazing and helped me to focus on the good. :) Thanks Alyssa and Emily! I love you girls so much!

College life.

2010-10-17T19:30:00.000-07:00

So I've been at Verity College in Indiana, taking a class on website design for the last week. I have one more week to go and hopefully I can stay sane during this next week of css code life. ;)

Every morning I wake up between 6:30-7:00am, (except for this morning when I slept into 9.) Breakfast is at 7:15, Chapel is at 7:30, and Class starts at 9 and goes to 5....normally. Then after supper often I call home or go outside to get some fresh air before I have to start working on my homework. Homework goes until... well... past midnight. I'm starting to really understand college life. I don't know if I like it or not, I mean, I like the part of staying up late, but being boxed in a classroom writing code, hours upon hours, is kinda hard for me to get used to.

Today I went to a Baptist Church called, "Southeast". It was very nice, I really enjoyed it. There was a young man who stood up and give his "testimony". It was really encouraging to me. He was telling how often we Christians well go into a Spiritual High, and we get all excited about serving Christ and standing up for Him, but after time, it seems that we lose our passion and our excitement, and we are not consistent with our stand for Christ. He was encouraging us to stay focused on our priorities and to stand firm on Christ. I have really enjoyed talking to the students about real life issues and about how to better serve Christ in our life.

Here are a few pictures ;)

...And they are married!!!

2010-10-12T10:22:00.000-07:00

Joel and Ashley. Mr and Mrs Eldredge. :)

Brooke and Caela, the flower girls, and me. :D

Dear Ashley has been a friend of mine for.... a very long time. She has always been someone I looked up to and wanted to strive to be like. She has always been "my sister in heart" and now... SHE'S MY SISTER FOR REAL!!!!

All of us girls together. :D

My brother Joel, I was so happy for him! I love you Joel so so much. You are so special to me, and so is your lovely new bride. :)

Such a special blessing.

2010-09-22T08:43:00.000-07:00

I am just so blessed to be the aunt of so many beautiful children.

9/11

2010-09-11T06:30:00.000-07:00

I was in the yard with some of my brothers, my dad heard it on the radio and told us. At first it was just a rummer that the white house had been crashed into, then the radio got it straight that it was the trade towers. I was only 9, but I remember being scared and wondering when the Muslims would be running down our drive.

I will never forget the people who died that day...