The Case Home

Caleb

2012-01-22T12:28:00.000-08:00

Our little man turned one this month. He is lots of fun and has a big personality! He certainly knows how to protest when he's being bullied by his big brother and sisters or when he sees something he wants to eat! He stays very busy exploring, climbing the stairs and saying words (his favorites are "elmo" and "ball"). He worships Mommy and food. He's pretty great and we are super-thankful for him.

Happy 5th Birthday, Jason!

2011-12-19T07:39:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to my sweet 5-year-old Jason! He has THE sweet smile of anyone I've ever known. He gives the best hugs and still loves to snuggle with his mama. He is a typical, rambunctuous boy, but is thoughtful and funny. Five years ago I was so thankful for his long awaited birth and I still think he was the most beautiful newborn ever! Happy Birthday to my Boo-Boo!

Jason's Jake and the Neverland Pirates Party

2011-12-16T07:54:00.001-08:00

The Motley Crew

...walking the plank in pursuit of the treasure

tiptoeing past Tic-Toc Croc...

Coley beating it out of the pirate ship piñata.

My boy turns five this month, which means he got to plan a big party for friends. He's been talking about the said party for six months now and had the same four friends on his list. I convinced him to do a pirate party, since it goes with his favorite show. He's spent the last two months making "pirate maps" and planning details like what order we should do everything! I had fun planning the details, like the treasure hunt, and decorating for the party, but I'm sure glad we only do these parties every few years!

VACATION 2011

2011-12-16T07:38:00.001-08:00

This is our cabin that we stayed in with my parents.

Jeff and Jason bonding while barbecuing...precious!

Highlights: Jeff's beautifully bbq-ed turkey!; not having sleep in the same room as kids anymore; remnants of snow and a quiet mountain atmosphere; relaxing, stress-free time in a cozy cabin; spending Thanksgiving with the greater Case clan at a massive cabin they had rented nearby; sledding at a nearby snow park (see our Christmas card).

Challenges: none to speak of on this part of the journey! We didn't want to come home! But we'll never forget Shaver Lake entirely drained.

VACATION 2011

2011-12-16T07:30:00.001-08:00

Our family had a WONDERFUL vacation this year! We spent 4 nights in Yosemite and then 4 nights in Shaver Lake over Thanksgiving weekend. WE were so excited to show our kids Yosemite (a childhood favorite vacation spot for both me and Jeff). It may have been a little cold for them to fully appreciate it though.

Highlights: Snow on the way into Yosemite (chains required); Walking around, enjoying the sites of Yosemite and bringing back all the memories of going there as kids; kids ice skating for the first time; BEAUTY of God's creation (one of them asked "is this real?" which is a clear indication of too much Disneyland).

Challenges: 6 of us in one hotel room (sleeping with a new kid every night is not always enjoyable); 32 degree cold during the day; car sick kid (not a pretty sight).

Catch Up

2011-12-16T07:11:00.001-08:00

What we're up to this year....school, of course!

Monkey see, monkey do...that's my Ashley. She wants to "do school" all the time, which means she practices things like colors and body parts and then she gets a candy. Of course, she HAD to have a school picture taken.

And apparently she needed to be in Big Sister's photo too. Shelby started second grade this year. I really couldn't ask for an easier student. She really teaches herself A LOT! But I'm really enjoying my time with her this year. She's one smart cookie!

My sweet boy started preschool this fall. He is finally ready to sit down and learn (rather than the running around learning he did for the first 4 1/2 years of his life). I decided to teach him at home this year and he's doing great!

Tea for Two

2011-08-15T15:58:00.000-07:00

Nema took Shelby to tea before we headed back to school. The pics are priceless.

Caleb Has a Room!

2011-06-21T19:20:00.000-07:00

So, now that I have some time (and more importantly moved the toddler out of the nursery) Caleb can have his own room! Small twist on our former nurseries...

We've branched out a bit to sports other than football....but only the acceptables ones (that being basketball and baseball, not soccer). So at six months, we are finally ready for our little one! He'll never remember that he first had to sleep in my closet, though he's still quite comfy when napping in there.

Shelby is 7

2011-06-08T16:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my wonderful oldest child! Shelby is such a sweet and graceful girl. She loves playing with dolls, but still has a bit tom-boy in her. She is such a caring big sister and a great student. It has been my joy to be her mom and teacher. I love how much she has grown in knowledge of her Lord over the last year and has even tried to share Jesus with some of her gymnastics friends. We are so proud to be her parents. God truly blessed us with her!

Happy Birthday to Ashley!

2011-05-18T13:45:00.000-07:00

My baby girl is two today! She is so much fun and has quite the personality. She adores her siblings...especially her brothers. She sings all the time and joins in with Mommy, making up silly words to familiar tunes. She loves shoes, a trait she did not inherit from her mother. She will wear her boots even when she's wearing nothing else. Thanks to Nema, she can now master the art of wearing platform flip flops.

Ashley sure gives us plenty of entertainment! We enjoy her so much!

By request...videos of the big kids

2011-05-18T10:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Auntie Steph!

2011-05-01T09:32:00.000-07:00

We love you and miss you SO MUCH!

Happy Resurrection Day!

2011-04-25T14:32:00.000-07:00

It was strange not going to Easter services on Sunday ("He is risen" doesn't seem to work as well on Saturday night, but the worship was still great!) It was nice to be able to do the Resurrection Eggs with the kids on Easter morning before family arrived. I love EASTER!

the babies with Nema (yes, Ashley is still my baby)

Most of the Case Cousins

Great-Grandma's 90th

2011-04-19T09:10:00.000-07:00

Enjoying Great-Grandma's backyard. It's fun to know that my kids will have memories of great-grandparents. I never met any of mine!

I share this photo to tell you all that I am NOT okay with how old my boy looks in this photo! Slow down, JD! I want you to stay little!

I have now celebrated 90th birthdays for three of my Grandparents! People live a long time these days! But it was a great celebration of a full life. Thanks, Aunt Janny & Aunt Carol, for throwing the party!

Jethawks' Opening Day

2011-04-19T09:03:00.000-07:00

Apparently, the Jethawks forgot that it is supposed to be SPRING when you kick off the season. We had tickets to opening night and it was a balmy 39 degrees! But it was a fun night with grandparents. No pictures of Caleb....he was under a blanket the whole night!

We lasted about an hour and a half into the game (as did most of the crowd) and it took me two hours under my electric blanket to feel warm again!

What the Big Kids are Up to!

2011-04-19T08:54:00.001-07:00

Jason's "Kings' Car" that he and Daddy made for Cubbies' car night.

Shelby got a medal at church for memorizing Psalm 139:1-12.

The Chunky Monkey at Three Months

2011-04-18T15:08:00.001-07:00

My happy boy! I'm enjoying him SO MUCH! Savoring it!

Caleb's new room. Yes, it may look like a closet, but he's not complaining. I think he appreciates that he has his own room!

Apparently he is happy to be armed!

And he is concerned at the amount of enjoyment his mother gets out of his cute hats.

We have another baby who loves his blanky! He's a snuggler.

Catching Up...

2011-04-18T14:30:00.000-07:00

Sorry I'm so behind (for the three people out there who actually read my blog). If pregnancy was little excuse, four children and homeschooling is definitely an excuse. Since it is spring break, I'll do a bit of blogging.....mainly so my dad stops complaining. (But also because I love you, Dad!)

Here is our little angel (he really is!) at his first hockey game. He was 2 1/2 months old. So far, it doesn't look like there was any permanent damage done by the loud noise and the flashing lights (he was quite obsessed with the jumbotron).

Here Caleb is meeting his cousin, Emma, who is one month older than him. Notice the difference in girth? Yes, Caleb is a chunker! In fact, he is weighing in somewhere around 16 pounds at three months! That is definitely a record for a Case baby.

Ashley still loves Caleb and always checks up on him. She's actually a good big sister. Not much jealousy there at all!

Baby Caleb

2011-02-16T18:17:00.000-08:00

Okay, I've given up on trying to catch up on my blog. Skipping our super-fun vacation to the Grand Canyon. Skipping Christmas and all the surrounding activities. Can I use pregnancy as an excuse for flaking on those things? The most important news in the last three months is that Caleb joined us on January 7th! We love him! So here he is, blogosphere...

Catchin' Up....Halloween

2010-11-16T18:20:00.001-08:00

Sorry....man, am I behind! Here are a few shots from Halloween.

Camping pics 3-Family Time

2010-09-17T19:36:00.000-07:00

The alligator stump. Shelby was a bit afraid the first time she saw it, thanks to her daddy's teasing that it was a real alligator.

Daddy and Baby at sunset.

This shot was taken with Jeff's iphone. Sometimes he takes better pics with that thing than I can with our camera!

The evenings were, by far, the nicest part of the day. The marine layer burned off about 4pm and it was beautiful. That's when we enjoyed long walks.

Camping pics 2- TIDE POOLS

2010-09-16T20:40:00.000-07:00

So there were some REAL tide pools at Carpinteria Beach. I don't mean the kind that only had dried out sea anemones (though those were there), but we actually saw some cool sea life! Thanks to Jeff's iphone, Shelby and I did a little research one afternoon, learned some definitions, and some specific life to look for. And wahla! WE had a field trip on our hands. Yeah! Thanks, God for putting your amazing creation in a place so easily accessible to us!

The tide pools completely disappeared at high tide, which was around noon. You couldn't even see the tall rocks under the surf. That was the time to enjoy watching the seals and dolphins swim by. It was like a wildlife excursion! Great for a new homeschool mom like me.

Camping pics 1-CHEESE!

2010-09-14T21:47:00.000-07:00

Ashley has a new "cheese" pose. I have no idea were it came from, but it must be something she learned at the beach. She thinks she's awfully cute doing it though.

I like the old school look of the above photo. It could have just as easily been taken of me or Steph when we were little!

Here is the closest we could get to catching her doing it. This post is really for Steph, so you can see what a big girl she's becoming!

Let the Homeschooling Begin

2010-08-10T17:03:00.000-07:00

August 9, 2010 was a big day of adjustment for our family! Shelby started first grade, and since I am now her teacher, we all have a different schedule! Days one and two went well. I think if I can entertain Jason and teach Ashley some independence (which she definitely needs to know by January anyway) we will have smooth sailing! The second day my mom came up to hang out with the younger two, which made a world of difference. I have to say first grade is not hard to teach when your student is already reading. I think it will be lots of fun!

Oh, and so here is my "homeschool" room. It looks basically how I wanted it to, but it will be MUCH easier once we get the pool table moved and can set up another desk for Shelby. We're doing okay for now though!

Fourth of July

2010-07-05T18:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Fourth of July! We had family fun this year! It is exciting to look at last year's picture and see the difference in the kids.

Shelby and Mommy made a Patriotic Cookie Pizza. Jeff spent the entire day BBQing yummy stuff. It is, after all, mostly about the food, right?

Most memorable fireworks moment was Ashley's reaction. Surprisingly, she wasn't afraid, but kept saying, "WOW!" She must have said it a hundred times throughout the night. Fun to see her develop her own personality!

Fi-a-powa!!

2010-07-05T10:03:00.000-07:00

Jason doing one of his latest antics. He does this at random, but of course, I had to bribe him to get him to do it for the camera. (From Night at the Museum 2.)

Six Years of Mommyhood

2010-06-08T11:01:00.001-07:00

Shelby Lorraine is six years old today!

My sweet girl is so fun. She has the most genuine smile of anyone I know. She is so sweet to her siblings, especially the baby, and she is a very sensitive girl. She's also intuitive and smarter than you think. She figures things out quite quickly, which makes talking in code a bit difficult. I love her innocence and I pray that she stays that way. My hope for her over the next year is that she continue to grow in love and knowledge of our Savior and that she learn the joy that comes from working to serve Him. What a PRECIOUS gift Shelby is to our Family.

Happy Birthday, Shelby!

Our Little Cupcake's First Birthday

2010-06-01T09:59:00.000-07:00

"The Cousins" (minus the birthday girl)

Shelby 6, Presley 4, Jason 3, Cole 19 months

The fun cupcake pinata we found for our little cupcake's party. Well, this was for the bigger kids of course.

Ashley wanted nothing to do with the cake. She'd barely even try it! She enjoyed the singing and blowing out the candles, but no fun face-full-of-cake pictures for this little girl.

She DID however love the present opening! Ashley politely played with each toy. Go figure that what is usually the hardest part of a one year old's party, was the easiest for this little one!

Our family of five....hard to believe that next year there will already be a 6th added to our midst!!! Yep, in case you missed it, we are expecting #4!

Precious Beach Pics

2010-06-01T09:53:00.000-07:00

When I am gone, leaving the kids with Jeff, he constantly sends me pictures on my phone to show me what I'm missing (I'm sure there is no guilt trip intended=)). Here were my favorites from when I was in Colorado. So sweet of my two big kids!

Happy Birthday, Ashley

2010-05-18T15:09:00.000-07:00

Our baby girl turned one today. She is so sweet and we've really been enjoying her the last couple of months. She's very chatty and her favorite things to say are "turto" (turtle) and "uz zat?" (what's that). She just points to things and babbles about them. She started taking two steps at a time yesterday and is quite proud of her efforts! We look forward to the things God will do in her life as she gets older and gains understand of His faithfulness.

Our plans for her birthday are to take her out for pizza and chicken and maybe a cupcake. Happy Birthday, Ashley Sharon! We are so thankful for you!!!

New Baby, New Hair

2010-04-23T20:07:00.000-07:00

"I can push the walker, Mommy!"

We are officially declaring Ashley a new child. She is SO happy, sweet, fun and NOT cranky! She tries new things and plays independently. We are enjoying her so much lately and I decided to give her fun new hair to match. Piggy-tails here we come!

Future Mrs. Melissa Case's Bridal Shower

2010-04-09T14:49:00.000-07:00

After 6 years, Melissa will finally be a Case! Uncle Ryan will marry Melissa in May and she'll finally be Aunt Melissa. We got to celebrate at a tea house in Orange County.

Since we don't get to be at the wedding, which will be in Turks and Caicos, Shelby was the "showergirl" (since Presley will be the flowergirl). She felt special, getting a crown, and helping pass out games.

Little Ladies' tea table for two.

Ashley was happiest outside, using the porch to learn to cruise. She had a good view of the present opening from here.

Of course, opening presents was the most important job for the showergirl. She got to choose the presents and help open them. Thanks, future Aunt Melissa, for a day!

Easter Sunday

2010-04-07T21:34:00.000-07:00

Baby's first Easter!

"The Three Musketeers" These cousins love each other so much and had lots of fun running around the back yard. Here, Presley is being the teacher and the other two are obediently listening.

Our almost 6 year old! She must always have an Easter hat. (She did not learn that from me!!)

Easter Advent 7- HE IS RISEN

2010-04-06T09:47:00.001-07:00

"UP FROM THE GRAVE HE AROSE, WITH A MIGHTY TRIUMPH O'ER HIS FOES. HE AROSE A VICTOR FROM THE DARK DOMAIN, AND WILL LIVE FOREVER WITH HIS SAINTS TO REIGN! HE AROSE, HE AROSE, HALLELUJAH CHRIST AROSE!"---as sung by Jason...his favorite song ever!

(so sorry this is a couple of days late. this is literally the first chance i've had to sit down at my computer since saturday night!)

Easter Advent 6- The Sabbath

2010-04-03T10:23:00.000-07:00

(No candles today. It was a dark, sad day to those who didn't know what tomorrow would bring.)

Mat 27:62-66 The next day, that is, after the day of Preparation, the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered before Pilate (63) and said, "Sir, we remember how that impostor said, while he was still alive, 'After three days I will rise.' (64) Therefore order the tomb to be made secure until the third day, lest his disciples go and steal him away and tell the people, 'He has risen from the dead,' and the last fraud will be worse than the first." (65) Pilate said to them, "You have a guard of soldiers. Go, make it as secure as you can." (66) So they went and made the tomb secure by sealing the stone and setting a guard.

Luk 23:56 Then [the women] returned and prepared spices and ointments. On the Sabbath they rested according to the commandment.

Easter Advent 6-The Sacrifice of our Messiah

2010-04-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

Of course, I could have posted entire chapters from the gospels about today. But my favorite verse regarding Christ's sacrifice was written hundreds of years before Jesus was even born, which I think makes it even more striking.

Isa 53:5-6 But he was wounded for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his stripes we are healed. (6) All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned--every one--to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.

Easter Advent 5- The Last Supper, Betrayal, and Arrest

2010-04-01T13:47:00.000-07:00

(the angel ministering to Jesus while he prayed and pleaded with God to spare him of his sacrificial fate, while the disciples sleep below)

Mat 26:26-29 Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, "Take, eat; this is my body." (27) And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, "Drink of it, all of you, (28) for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. (29) I tell you I will not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom."

Luk 22:39-48 And he came out and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives, and the disciples followed him. (40) And when he came to the place, he said to them, "Pray that you may not enter into temptation." (41) And he withdrew from them about a stone's throw, and knelt down and prayed, (42) saying, "Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done." (43) And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. (44) And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground. (45) And when he rose from prayer, he came to the disciples and found them sleeping for sorrow, (46) and he said to them, "Why are you sleeping? Rise and pray that you may not enter into temptation." (47) While he was still speaking, there came a crowd, and the man called Judas, one of the twelve, was leading them. He drew near to Jesus to kiss him, (48) but Jesus said to him, "Judas, would you betray the Son of Man with a kiss?"

Easter Advent 4- Plot to Kill Jesus, Anointing Jesus's feet

2010-03-31T14:59:00.000-07:00

(Jews plotting to kill Jesus...you can tell by his face, he's doing the best "Jewish leader" voice he possibly can.)

Mar 14:1-11 It was now two days before the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. And the chief priests and the scribes were seeking how to arrest him by stealth and kill him, (2) for they said, "Not during the feast, lest there be an uproar from the people." (3) And while he was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he was reclining at table, a woman came with an alabaster flask of ointment of pure nard, very costly, and she broke the flask and poured it over his head. (4) There were some who said to themselves indignantly, "Why was the ointment wasted like that? (5) For this ointment could have been sold for more than three hundred denarii and given to the poor." And they scolded her. (6) But Jesus said, "Leave her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. (7) For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want, you can do good for them. But you will not always have me. (8) She has done what she could; she has anointed my body beforehand for burial. (9) And truly, I say to you, wherever the gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will be told in memory of her." (10) Then Judas Iscariot, who was one of the twelve, went to the chief priests in order to betray him to them. (11) And when they heard it, they were glad and promised to give him money. And he sought an opportunity to betray him.

Easter Advent 3-Teaching in the Temple and on the Mt.of Olives.

2010-03-30T12:55:00.000-07:00

Mar 12:28-31 And one of the scribes came up and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them well, asked him, "Which commandment is the most important of all?" (29) Jesus answered, "The most important is, 'Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. (30) And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' (31) The second is this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these."

Mar 13:5-10 And Jesus began to say to them, "See that no one leads you astray. (6) Many will come in my name, saying, 'I am he!' and they will lead many astray. (7) And when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. This must take place, but the end is not yet. (8) For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places; there will be famines. These are but the beginning of the birth pains. (9) "But be on your guard. For they will deliver you over to councils, and you will be beaten in synagogues, and you will stand before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them. (10) And the gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations.

Disclaimer...you may notice that Roman soldiers also stand in as Jewish leaders. This is due to a lack of male dolls. Today we tried to dress them up so they look a little less Roman. =) Soon you'll get to see Shelby's dollhouse dolls be Mary and Martha.

Easter Advent 2-Curse the Fig and Cleanse The Temple

2010-03-29T12:36:00.000-07:00

Mar 11:12-18 On the following day, when they came from Bethany, he was hungry. (13) And seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to see if he could find anything on it. When he came to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. (14) And he said to it, "May no one ever eat fruit from you again." And his disciples heard it. (15) And they came to Jerusalem. And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who sold and those who bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons. (16) And he would not allow anyone to carry anything through the temple. (17) And he was teaching them and saying to them, "Is it not written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations'? But you have made it a den of robbers." (18) And the chief priests and the scribes heard it and were seeking a way to destroy him, for they feared him, because all the crowd was astonished at his teaching.

Easter Advent 1-The Triumphal Entry

2010-03-28T19:18:00.000-07:00

Every year I do an Easter Advent. Many of you probably get the daily emails. This year, I decided to simply update my blog daily with the verses and that way I can include a picture of our role-play everyday too!

Mat 21:7-9 "They brought the donkey and the colt and put on them their cloaks, and he sat on them. (8) Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. (9) And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!"

The Girls...

2010-03-28T16:44:00.000-07:00

"Daddy doesn't need to hold me! I can hold him!!"
Yeah! She finally loves her daddy.

Shelby made Uncle Ryan his very own birthday cake from her Easy Bake Oven. I have to say the frosting is disgusting and produces about a teaspoon worth. Thank goodness for a tube of decorating chocolate I had in the pantry. It came out quite nicely!

"Low in the Grave"

2010-03-28T16:00:00.000-07:00

This one is definitely for the Grandparents. This has been Jason's favorite song for over a year. He knows all the words and loves singing it before bed. Precious, I tell ya!

And the big kids....

2010-02-27T10:43:00.002-08:00

Shelby's Valentines for her class....love and care went in to preparing each one, including a verse encouraging them to love.

The Valentine's Party at school was a special dress up day.

Entertaining ourselves at home.

He was so excited to go to the air park in East Palmdale. He was even more excited about the model airplane he got to take home with him.

What Ashley is up to...

2010-02-26T20:27:00.000-08:00

Ashley is definitely becoming more fun (except when teething or she has an ear infection).

She finally likes Daddy, which is such a relief to Mommy! She's quite content to let him hold/comfort her (unless I come back into the room).

She finally has the waiving down. She won't always do it on demand, but the nice people on television always get waived at. Apparently she thinks they are quite friendly to her.

Rockets with Daddy

2010-01-27T15:17:00.000-08:00

Daddy oh so loves that he has a boy. He dug out the rocket stuff from his Dad's garage and has taken the kids out launching rockets twice. Uncle Ryan bought Jason a astronaut helmet to help with the launch sequence. JD never gets tired of telling how the rocket shoots up in the air...that's his favorite part.

Pics of the Littler Ones

2010-01-27T15:07:00.001-08:00

I've been taking a lot of pictures of Jason and Ashley because I wanted a good picture to send in to the Beautiful Baby Search (on Regis and Kelly). Why is it that when you need a good picture, you can't get one? Well, here are a few decent ones. Keep your eyes out, I'm hoping maybe their little faces will flash on the screen when they show hundreds of the thousands they receive for the contest!This is the one I used of Ashley. I love the elf ears.

This is not the one I used for Jason, but was the best one I took. Turns out I could use a December pic so I used one from his birthday because he was giving my favorite, sweet smile.

Did not use this one, but I had to post it for the cheeks. She's not chunky, but is known for the big cheeks!

Christmas Festivities

2009-12-26T19:50:00.000-08:00

Every year Auntie Amy has a work party (LAPD communications division) for the kids with face painting and Santa and cool Po-Po vehicles.

The Sanderson/Case/Wahler goodbye trip. We stayed in a cabin for two nights with fun games, baking and Christmas movies. Fun and Christmasy!

There is the Christmas concert at Shelby's school. Very sweet to watch our little girl sing about Jesus.

We had a cookie play date where we made nativity scenes out of cookies.

Our best little Christmas present this year. Evidence of God's blessing in our lives this year.

Merry Christmas Eve!

2009-12-26T18:22:00.000-08:00

All spiffied up and ready for Christmas Eve service.

Happy Birthday, Jason!

2009-12-19T15:00:00.001-08:00

Today is our Jason's third birthday. I'm so thankful for such a great boy! JD is so sweet and loving. He is great at giving hugs and still loves to snuggle. He loves his sisters and is always the first to hug Shelby when we pick her up from school. He enjoys making Ashley laugh and every time he says, "She like me!" He really has an excitement for life. He enjoys sports and anything that travels. He gets so excited when he sees trains, buses, and even trash trucks. My favorite quote from when he opened his presents was, "Oh my goodness. Look what me got! It's so cool!" Jason add so much joy to our lives.

What the kids are up to...

2009-12-03T12:57:00.001-08:00

Shelby is all about school. She loves it and is learning so much. Here is the traditional Kindergarten Thanksgiving feast costume...a right of passage for every kid, I think!

Jason potty trained himself the week of Thanksgiving. Well, I guess I initiated it, but I CANNOT believe how easily he caught on. I was shocked! He had 1 or 2 accidents the first three days, then started telling us when he had to go. After a week he was completely accident free. Yahoooo!!

P.S. Yes, I'm aware that, in a few years, JD will probably be horrified that this picture is up for the world to see.

Ashley started solid foods this month. This is the face she made after every bite the first time. She still has very little interest, though she enjoyed the mashed potatoes and yams on Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving #2

2009-12-03T12:43:00.000-08:00

This one is for my aunts! I thought you'd like to see your folks enjoying their great grandchildren. =) My kids are blessed to still have two great-grandparents around, after saying goodbye to one of them this year. We are thankful for family! We have so many special family members so close by.

Nema had lots of fun with her grandkids at our celebration. All these kids just love their Nema.

Happy Thanksgiving #1

2009-12-01T14:03:00.001-08:00

We had a great Thanksgiving at Aunt Amy's new house. So fun!

She does have a reputation in the family for being a little turkey sometimes.
But she's a cute one!

A Peek into October

2009-12-01T13:35:00.001-08:00

I apologize to all of you with a blog addiction. It has been two months! I have all the usual excuses, but also somehow I reached a max on the number of pictures google would let me publish. Of course I only found that out last week so that excuse doesn't go very far. But here are my favorite three from October....okay, now let's move on to November already!

Our Turtle Story

2009-10-03T13:16:00.000-07:00

About 2 weeks ago our neighbor showed the kids her turtle, which she kept in her garage. Then last Monday, Jason decided he wanted a turtle. Picturing a silver-dollar sized turtle we could keep in a tank, I told him if he wants a turtle for Christmas maybe he should start praying for one. The very next day, as I was going to pick Shelby up from school, I open my garage and there was a desert tortoise walking up my driveway. Not wanting it to get run over (and since it was in my driving path), I put it in a box on our porch and called my neighbor to let her know her turtle had escaped. She eventually came over and informed us that this was not her turtle. It doesn't belong to any of our neighbors. So for the time being, we own a turtle, which JD has named "Lightning." It was a very cute way to teach Jason that God answers all kind of prayers!

"Grounded" in Bakersfield

2009-09-21T04:36:00.000-07:00

We made it to our family camp with church this year (called "Grounded"). It is the first time we've been camping with more than one child and WOW, it is much different with three!

JD decided it would be fun to play catch through some tree branches with a 4" diameter rock. The inevitable result was a nice shiner. Thankfully it hit above and not in his eye. Boys!

Ashley did really well...thanks to all the prayers! It was way too hot for her. I think I overestimated my ability to bring a four month old tent camping in 100+ degree heat. Thankfully our lovely, generous friends with a trailer, shared their air conditioning (and a fan). Without that we probably would have had to take her home.

Shelby had fun with all her friends and their dogs. These are our friends', The Clarks, girls and Zach Gardner. They had lots of fun and didn't seem to mind the heat. It turns out I didn't need the many warm clothes I packed for everyone. It did cool down.....but not until 2am!!

First Day of Kindergarten

2009-09-10T19:46:00.001-07:00

So here she is! My Kindergartner! Shelby wasn't very excited about K-5, but she didn't seem apprehensive either. She seems to be adjusting well, even though the days are long.

Daddy went in to work late and we had a special breakfast at Karen's Kitchen (our new favorite place because of the delicious pancakes!).

To sum up MY feelings about school I say "here we go!" I feel like the roller coaster now begins!

Gracefest

2009-09-09T17:07:00.000-07:00

As a nice end to summer, we went to Gracefest at our nifty little outdoor amphitheater here in Palmdale. It was pretty nice! The bands were really good and the weather was cool. A nice way to welcome the fall and celebrate Labor Day. Super Chick was a little hard-core for me, but BooBoo really liked it. I think he wished he was down in the mosh-pit. I've never been that type. But I'm glad he had fun!

Piratey Fun

2009-08-24T08:36:00.001-07:00

Poor JD doesn't have any dress up clothes. I saw these masks and pirate toys at Michael's for half off so I got them for playtime. The kids and Daddy had fun in the back yard playing sword fights and throwing canon balls at each other.

The little pirates and Peg-leg Jeff.

By the way, if anyone is planning a Pirate birthday party all the stuff at Michael's is on clearance and is really cheap! I'm a little bummed that JD insists on a Cars birthday party this year.

Summer Fun Away from Home

2009-08-22T13:13:00.001-07:00

Jeff has enjoyed taking the kids to Dry Town this summer. Ashley and I tagged along the last time. Since the kids were deathly afraid last summer it has been fun to watch them play.

I did one trip around the lazy river with the kids.

The baby was an angel which, if you keep up with our family, is a miracle in and of itself. The swimsuit was a photo opp...it's the only time I've dared to even take her near the water.

Summer Fun at Home

2009-08-22T13:02:00.001-07:00

Shelby has been on a creative, artistic kick lately. On days when we are home she spends much of the day coloring or drawing. This was a chalk drawing she was proud of one day...her garden. I was impressed with the snail! =)

Goodbye Great-Grumpy

2009-08-22T12:54:00.001-07:00

We had to say goodbye to another family member this month. My grandpa on my mom's side passed away at 92. He was so special and generous and love my kids so much. It was fun to see a 92 year old interact with the little ones. This picture was taken the last time we saw him healthy. I'm so thankful for this picture as it is the only one I have of him with Ashley!

Can I post a link to your blog?

2009-07-17T16:09:00.000-07:00

Hey, if you follow my blog, and you don't mind if I list you under my blog list, please leave a comment. I have a hard time finding all my friends' blogs and I'd like to post them here so I can easily find them all, but I don't want to do it without your permission. (Except for Steph =))
Please let me know if I can!

On the Lake

2009-07-14T12:17:00.001-07:00

The kids really enjoyed swimming in the lake. The water was nice!

Safety first!!
I loved this life vest we borrowed for Ashley. She was actually quite comfortable in it...for about 10 minutes.

The kids loved fishing, which they've become interested in lately, mainly because of Daddy's iphone fishing game. No one caught anything this trip....pretty much what I remember of the little fishing I've done in my life.

And while everyone else enjoyed the sun, this was Ashley's happy place on the boat. She likes to be enclosed in tight spaces so she slept quite nicely in this little duckie bathtub.

This was the chosen spot for a little memorial we did for Sharon on her birthday. We tied our two boats together and did a devotional, and said goodbye once again.

Shaver Lake

2009-07-14T10:12:00.000-07:00

All the Cases went away to Shaver Lake last week to celebrate what would have been Sharon's 60th birthday. It was beautiful and fun, especially for the kids.

One of the highlights for the kids was a large fire pit in back of the big cabin. The cousins had fun making smores, playing and getting filthy back there.

This was our cozy little cabin. It was really nice and perfect for our family.

Fourth of July Fun

2009-07-05T20:39:00.001-07:00

Happy Fourth of July!!!!

I was so excited to have matching dresses for the girls! Thanks, Britt!

Ashley is now seven weeks old. It is fun to see her shed some of the "newbornness."

This was Ashley's cozy spot for watching fireworks. She wasn't bothered by them at all, feeling safe in Papa's arms. Favorite memories...Jason's reaction to fireworks like "Wow, that a big one.....that huge...that amazing...that a popping one!" Two is such a fun age!

This and that...

2009-07-05T20:00:00.000-07:00

I like this picture. It's a great one of the girls. And then there is Jason, already trying to jump into pictures. He did his own hair, by the way.

It is funny to say that Suzie looks big, considering she was less than 2 pounds when she was born a year ago (on July 18th). But Praise the Lord, Suzie is doing great!

Hallie pics

2009-06-20T14:54:00.001-07:00

Picture time again for Shelby's 5-year pics(!) and Ashley's newborn pics. Of course with Hallie there were tons of great ones, but I chose ones that best showed the kids' personalities. Thanks, Wonderful Friend, for another great session!This is a beautiful dress Nema got for Shelby. She's wanted Sleeping Beauty for years.

This is truly JD's personality...two of his favorite things- baseball and his Tonka Truck, which he likes to ride in.

I couldn't decide between the baby rage face and the one where she's grabbing a hand full of JD's cheek. I went with the rage. You could say it's part of her personality.

"The Graduate"

2009-06-20T14:42:00.000-07:00

Call me a cynic (and I think most people would), but I think a cap and gown graduation for preschoolers is a bit much. However, it was a cute photo op, so here a couple pictures.

Housewife in Training

2009-06-10T10:40:00.001-07:00

Shelby got this apron/oven mitt set for her birthday. This morning she decided to practice her cooking skills (pretending, and no, the oven is not on). What a cute little homemaker she'll be someday...curlers and all.

Happy Birthday, Shelby!

2009-06-08T21:12:00.001-07:00

Gone are the days of calling her a baby, a toddler, or a preschooler! My big girl is now a 5 year old and a Kindergartener!Shelby chose a Hawaiian theme or her party.

The cousins decorated flip flops....

and she had her first pinata.

Shelby is such a blessing to us. She is so helpful, willing to lend a hand whenever possible. She is also very loving, an adoring big sister to both Jason and Ashley. It has especially been so encouraging to us to see her growth in knowledge of Christ and God's word this year and her soft heart as she prays for her friends and family. We truly treasure our big girl!

Welcome Ashley!

2009-05-22T13:36:00.000-07:00

Ashley joined our family on May 18, 2009 at 9:46am,

weighing 7 pounds, 15 ounces, 20 inches long. This is the little baby we got to know the first night...she screamed all night!

Thankfully once she got adjusted to life outside the womb, she calmed down a bit.

Proud Mommy and Daddy hold Ashley (the name took a full day to be decided on).

The big kids meet their new baby sister. Jason keeps calling her "Suzie" and really only cares about her pacifier. When asked if he wanted to take Baby Sister home, his response was, "no." Now he seems to be fond of her and will give her an occasional kiss.

Our family of FIVE!

Shelby must be the most excited big sister ever! She is meticulous about washing her hands before she touches her and wants to hold her every chance she gets. The proud big sister got to name baby. Ashley was always her favorite name and it meant a lot to her that we use that name since Baby Girl looks a lot like Shelby.

Ashley Sharon is such a joy! She's a great eater and we are so blessed by her already! Praise God for a safe delivery, we love our baby girl!

Travel Town

2009-05-06T13:08:00.001-07:00

Our last outing as a family of four. We went down to Travel Town in Griffith Park and walked around looking at trains. The kids like it and it was a beautiful day! It was much easier to handle than a day at Disneyland, at this stage in pregnancy.

April Pics

2009-04-27T09:13:00.000-07:00

Apparently everyone except me is a photographer these days. This one is Daniel and Shelby at the park, thanks to the photography skills of Keri. Fun day, Keri!

Jason must be a taquito before Daddy leaves him to sleep at night. This takes being tucked in to a whole new level.

Jason recently finish his gymnastics class. He loved it. While Shelby had to learn to take turns and follow directions in her gymnastics class at 2, JD learned more independence and really came out of his shell. Of course...

...this is the reason I can no longer take him to gymnastics. I'm much to big, and SLOW-moving, to chase after him now that he's "out of his shell." This pic was taken at 36 1/2 weeks.

Easter- He is Risen!

2009-04-26T19:45:00.001-07:00

This first picture is on Good Friday, with Jesus hanging on the cross, during our three hours of darkness. The single candle stayed lit until the three hours of darkness ended and Jesus "died". Shelby looks forward to this day all week.

He is Risen! Easter morning

Presley, Shelby and JD all dolled up.

March

2009-04-26T19:11:00.000-07:00

So sorry to all you faithful bloggers. Really, I plan to update more faithfully, but well...it just comes down to laziness. I am growing a baby here! The pictures must be on the computer and not the camera for me to post them. We FINALLY downloaded pictures so I am FINALLY updating. The above pictures are from Shelby's crazy hair day at school. Man, that girl has a lot of hair!!!

This is Jason's "Fee, Fie, Foe, Fum" routine. He somehow picked up the giant's phrase...In case you can't understand it's, "Fee, Fie, Foe, Fumm....I smell....I smell.....MOMMY!"

Sea World Mini-Vacation

2009-02-15T15:50:00.001-08:00

Sea World here we come!We decided to venture back to Sea World for a bit of family time. We spent a day and a half there. Both kids were a lot more adventurous and less scared this time.

Shelby thought she was so brave to hold the star fish (which I guess you're not allowed to do anymore..oops), but this time she ventured out to touch bat rays too. JD didn't seem to think star fish were scary, but most everything else was terrifying the first day.

The second day Jason was a lot less scared. He would say "look at dat!" and "oh a lil' baby" if he thought something seemed small.

We stayed at a beautiful Hilton right across the bay from Sea World. It was way nicer than places we normally stay thanks to Hotwire (I recommend you try it!).

Dusting of Snow

2009-02-15T15:45:00.001-08:00

We got a little more snow last week. Shelby doesn't look forward to it anymore because she just thinks it's cold and wet. But this time Andrew was over, so they had lots of fun running around while the flakes came down. It didn't stick, but it sure was pretty while it lasted.

Disneyland Once More

2009-01-29T20:46:00.001-08:00

Our passes expired this month and it will be awhile before we return to Disneyland. It was fun to go one last time with our friends, the Amandus Family. Shelby and Conner had so much fun showing each other their favorite parts of Disneyland and CA Adventure. Thanks, Brittany, Steve, and Conner for sharing the day with us, one last outing for you as a family of three!

Detective Case

2009-01-29T19:38:00.000-08:00

The family at Jeff's badge ceremony. As of January 5th he is now a detective! We're so proud.

Officer Case, Detective Case get into a "use of force" with Suspect Case.

Tom with his LAPD children...Jeff, Amy, and Ryan.

Goodbye to Grammy

2009-01-10T11:34:00.001-08:00

One week ago today we lost Grammy. Yesterday we said goodbye at "Grammy's Celebration." Here is what we will remember about Grammy. She LOVED her grandkids. To say she was generous and thoughtful is an understatement. There was never a month where the kids went without some sort of gift from Grammy. Whenever she went shopping, her grandkids benefited. She was always willing to watch the kids, even at a moment's notice. She just loved spending time with them. She LOVED us very much and we take comfort in knowing the joy she is now experiencing in the presence of our Savior.

Blessings: there is never a time that shows God's blessings more than tragedy. We look back at the last month and see 100 blessing God gave us just before this tragedy and in the midst of it...things we would have taken for granted without it. The huge turnout at the memorial--300+ people--was another blessing. Seeing how close the Case family is and the love they share is another blessing. And seeing the way our church body rallied around to serve our family is still another one. What a gracious, loving, faithful God we serve.

We still miss Grammy, but we do not mourn without hope that we will see her again in glory.

Happy Birthday, JD!

2008-12-19T15:53:00.001-08:00

My little boy is two today! He is so much fun and I enjoy him much more than I thought I could ever enjoy a boy! He's still sweet and cuddles often and says the funniest things-- "Licious" (while rubbing his tummy) or "grave, Mommy!" (wanting to sing Low in the Grave before bed).

For his birthday we got him a scooter so he doesn't have to commandeer his sister's anymore. We had a fun lunch with friends, where plenty of boys taught JD how to play in the snow. Then we went to the mall where he did everything he always asks to do, but the answer is always no...candy, ice cream, riding the electric rides, and getting a ball from the toy machine...what else could a boy ask for? Dinner? Pizza and french fries, followed by, what will most likely be, a Mickey Mouse movie and a bath. It's fun being two!

Snow, Snow, Snow!

2008-12-18T18:56:00.000-08:00

I know, most people say, "what's the big deal?" But when we get snow here, we all jump outside with cameras and take pics before it all disappears. I even woke Shelby up early so she would be sure not to miss it. Of course, that was before I realized it would snow for more than 12 hours nonstop and we'd get just over a foot of snow! So the initial pictures really aren't worth much.

The kids mostly lasted about five to ten minutes at a time before appendages were too cold and the whining began. I don't know how often people let their kids play out in the snow, but it sure is a lot of work!

Snow Angels from my Snow Angel was a highlight.

Snow makes any place beautiful! What a great picture of God covering our sin and making us pure and clean. It sure was quiet and beautiful!

Having to shovel the driveway and help neighbors with cars that were stuck was the other side to our snow experience, not to mention sliding around the roadways. I'm not sure I'm ready to live in it yet(sorry, Jess), but we sure had a blast! And I hear more may be coming!

Christmas Festivities!

2008-12-18T18:18:00.000-08:00

This is how Shelby helps Daddy put lights on the house. (No, I do not condone this one bit)

I know it's blurry, but this is how JD helps me do my Christmas baking.

We took the train ride in Filmore known as the Polar Express. Shelby was relieved that we didn't go across ice or up and down mountains. It was a fun time with Nema and Poppi. And hearing Jason call, "All Aboard!!" like 20 times was priceless too.

Christmas tree hunting was quite the chore this year. After 10 tree lots we settled for a tree that we didn't particularly love, but it was all worth it, not having to tell Shelby she would not be able to get her tree that day (the tears were starting to well up). Now I like our tree and hopefully next year we won't be as picky.

We went to an LAPD family Christmas party with Aunt Amy. It was fun with the cousins and Shelby was excited to wear her Christmas dress, which she wants to wear every day. Jason got a train whistle from Santa and you'd think he struck gold. I love that the little things are so amusing to a two year old.

Family Vacation!

2008-11-30T13:40:00.001-08:00

Here are some of my favorite pics from our Colorado Vacation~We went to the Olympic Headquarters in Colorado Springs. It was actually pretty neat and the kids enjoyed it because the Olympics were fresh in their minds.

This is on our friends', the Dyers' property. Everyone in Colorado owns their own tractor you know. (Okay, not really)

We went to this really cool place called Miller Farms where you go on a hay ride to pick your own vegetables...pumpkins, onions, potatoes, lettuce, carrots, etc. It was really cool, but we couldn't exactly take a lot, knowing we were going to have to fly home. After we picked all our produce, the kids loaded up the wagons to transport all our stuff. It sure was fun!

Our dear friends, the Skagerbergs..all six of them with one more on the way! We all stayed in Estes Park for a couple of nights. We "hiked" around a couple of small lakes and the kids (and adults for some reason) were obsessed with throwing rocks in the water.

"Friends and our girls"

On our last day in Estes Park we went to the lake in town. There we saw about FIVE DOZEN elk! It was so neat. These things aren't afraid of people at all and we watched them for awhile, while Jeff tempted fate and got a few up close pictures of one buck. Then the kids once again threw a few rocks in the lake before we left for home. Great memories to last!

(you can see the herd of elk in the background)

A few Fall Photos

2008-11-30T13:28:00.001-08:00

Yes, I realize that it is now Christmas, but I'm hoping it's not too late to post my fall photos.

Disneyland

I think JD thinks he'll really be able to pull the sword out of the stone.

Shelby was determine to get her pic taken with Jesse.

Our Sunday School class went apple picking in Tehachapi.
It was a perfect fall day for it. Thanks Brit for the great picture!

Halloween

2008-11-11T08:59:00.001-08:00

Papas is just content to hold his grandsons!

Of course, I'm not a huge fan of Halloween, but I love dressing up my kids! And when they can barely talk, it is so cute to hear them go trick or treating.

"A Lie on to a Pan"

2008-11-11T08:31:00.000-08:00

I know I'm so behind in blogging! I figured I'll put a couple of Halloween pics up first and then work my way back to the rest of October, but this isn't really related. It is Jason (yes, it is on Halloween) singing "Thy Word." Okay, maybe only grandparents and aunties can appreciate the cuteness of if, but they'll see this!

Jason's belly dance

2008-10-31T22:18:00.000-07:00

After a bath in the sink, JD decided to show off his dancing skills. I think the towel costume helped put him in the mood.

Steph and Suzie

2008-10-03T19:52:00.001-07:00

Here is a brief update on our Sweet Suzie. She is doing great! She is now 6 pounds! She is slowly learning to take her feedings through a bottle rather than a feeding tube. Steph feels a bit more like a mom now as she can hold her at will, change her, dress her in clothes, and bath her. Lord-willing she will be able to come home in a couple of weeks. Praise God!

And baby makes three?

2008-10-03T19:33:00.001-07:00

I was unaware this picture was being taken (do we ever want this side of us pictured?). However, it got me thinking! I find myself out and about like this often and wonder, "where on earth will I put a third child?" Two hands, three kids? I know many who do it, so if you have any tips feel free to pass them along. I'll find out by next summer I suppose! =)

We're Back!

2008-10-03T19:14:00.000-07:00

Now that September is here we can go back to Disneyland!A little rest on Minnie's bed.

JD HAD to ride in the car, of course.

"Mee-kah" is the only character allowed to get close to JD. Mickey is his favorite.

September

2008-10-03T19:10:00.000-07:00

Ready to go to "hu-ah" with Daddy.

First Day of School

2008-08-16T14:25:00.001-07:00

We'll here we go! My little girl started preschool this week. She had
absolutely no hesitation and continued to comfort Daddy
that she would only be right down the street.
She had fun, of course, and wants to go every day, but
I think two days a week is plenty!

Shelby Dance

2008-08-16T14:17:00.000-07:00

Shelby is taking a dance class this summer. It is very fun and cute. She is very proud of herself in this class. The first class, she had a big smile on her face and would give me a thumbs up sign every few minutes.

Beach Pics

2008-08-16T09:19:00.001-07:00

Pardon the smudge on the camera! We had a beach day this month. Both kids loved the sand of course. Shelby much less afraid of the water this time. We felt the earthquake while there.

This is a picture of the kids swimming in the sand.
Much less scary than swimming in the water apparently.

Our Sweet Suzie

2008-08-15T20:51:00.001-07:00

Suzie on her birthday

I can't imagine that anyone is reading this blog and has not already heard about my sweet niece, Suzie Lorraine Sanderson, born 12 weeks early on July 18th. I still wanted to do a tribute page to her because we love her and she occupies so many of our thoughts and prayers.

What a trial this has been. I can tell you that God has truly strengthened my faith as I watch how Steph and Kyle handle this. They are so strong, though only in the Lord. God has brought our Suzie through many ups and downs and she is now almost one month old and stable. We have no idea what God has planned for her life, but we know she is a miracle and God will continue to get the glory from whatever lies ahead.

If, by chance, you haven't read her story visit my sister's blog:
http://thesandersonfam.blogspot.com/

Family Photos

2008-07-10T11:39:00.001-07:00

It had been three years since we took family pictures. Here are a few of our recent photo shoot. These are Shelby's four year pics and JD's 18 month pictures.

Courtesy of HG photography (Hallie).

Shelby-Shue Is FOUR!

2008-06-26T19:52:00.000-07:00

My girl is now a four year old! She had a dalmation party and enjoyed time with her friends.
Duck, Duck, Goose or Puppy, Puppy, Dog (her request)
pictured with Victoria and Andrew

Sweet smile while we sing.

As it turns out Dalmation party stuff is hard to find so I did my best. I stuck with the black and white theme and of course posted 99 little puppy dalmations around.

Thanks, Hallie, for the great pictures!

DISNEYLAND AGAIN!

2008-06-26T19:46:00.000-07:00

We weren't planning on going to Disneyland again until September, but then we won sneak peek passes for the new Toy Story Mania ride at California Adventure so we couldn't miss it. We spent half a day down there and took Presley with us. The ride was fun (though Shelby was scared), that is, until it broke down a little over half way through the ride. We had to be escorted off. But we did get a sneak peek version of it!