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Kathryn

7 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Family/ Motherhood/ Peek into our Week

A peek into my week as a #boymom

Friday night

I went to church and invited the congregation to be a part of Summer Serve! We are asking for people to help with Supernova Kid’s Camp (VBS) and/or jump in to serve three times this summer in New Life Kids – once in June, July and August.

Saturday

We went to the gym, then went to King Chefs Diner. This place is a fun experience and I definitely recommend it! It’s on my list of best restaurants in Colorado Springs.

Afterwards, I ran to the store to grab a couple of things. Luke found a tub of cheeseballs. He’s been begging me to buy them for weeks. They were on sale this week, so I agreed. He was so happy and wanted to carry them all around the store – even though the tub was almost as big as him. When we got to the car, he began to buckle the container into his car seat. He was more worried about his snack making it safely home than himself.

Luke and his precious cargo!

That night I went out with some girlfriends to Till Kitchen to celebrate their birthdays!

Sunday

Sunday evening we met some friends at Venezia park for a nerf gun war! My boys had so much fun. I loved watching them run and play and laugh with their friends – all different ages, all playing together – and NO TEARS from anyone! (And no one asking for, or playing with electronics!)

That night I realized my first post was published for the Colorado Springs Mom Bloggers! Click here to read “The Entire City Lends A Hand” (based on this book I wrote as a child):

Monday

I usually do as little as possible. Luke and I take it easy, read and play.

Relaxing with Luke

Luke spent some time riding his “motorcycle” …then found one little dirty spot and proceeded to use an entire bag of wipes to clean it. I sent the picture to my mother-in-law (Nana) and she sent a similar picture to me – Papa was doing the same with HIS motorcycle!

Mondays are the busiest days for the big boys. They have school, then go to chess club (they LOVE Chess club!), then I pick them up, pass out snacks, cleats and shin guards, and take them to soccer practice.

This season has been my favorite sports season so far. We signed the boys up for YMCA Soccer. George and Clark are playing on the same team. I found a time slot where all 3 big boys have the same practice time on the same field each week – which is only 5 minutes from our house. All games and practices are on this one field!  There is also a playground for Luke. I can push him on the swing and watch all three boys practice! I love it. Plus, because we are members of the Y, it was cost effective.  I wish every sport would make it this easy on mamas. Paul is having fun and Y soccer is the perfect fit for him. George and Clark say it’s not as competitive as the previous league they played with, but how competitive does it need to be for 8 and 10 year olds?! Anyway, with four busy boys, it’s probably the only season that will be this easy on me – so I’m savoring it!

For future reference – any #boymoms have any advice on how you handle sports schedules and still have sanity and family time?

My nice view while the boys play soccer!

Tuesday

Luke had preschool, so I got to grocery shopping ALL.BY.MYSELF. It’s a vacation to walk the aisles slowly and methodically, all by myself. Then, I met my friend Beth for lunch. This lady was my FIRST friend in Colorado Springs. We met in the church parking lot on our family’s first Sunday morning at New Life Church. We had both just moved to Colorado Springs, and connected from our first ‘Hello!’ Unfortunately, she is moving this summer. They’re an Air Force family and her husband will begin working in the Pentagon this summer – so they are headed to DC! We had a delicious Thai lunch and could have kept talking for hours, but I had to pick up Luke from preschool.

I’ll miss you Beth!

Wednesday

Today was a work day for me. We all arrived early for rehearsal. We have planned something special for all those coming to The Gathering Conference next week.

New Life Family Ministry Team Rehearsal

Then we had a staff meeting to go over every detail – hour by hour – of the event.  It’s going to be so good – phenomenal speakers, good music, fun activities, lots of fabulous “breakout” sessions, great food – I can’t wait!!!!  Ted’s taking care of the boys so I can be there for all of it.

I also spent time on Wednesday preparing for our Friday night service, as well as a Breakout Session I’ll be leading at The Gathering on Volunteerism.

PS – If you want to join us for The Gathering, PM for a discount code!!!

Thursday

Luke had preschool so I ran errands, did some cleaning and some writing.

Friday

The boys had no school today so we met some friends to play at Fox Run Park. This is the park where Clark found a snake, tried to sneak it home, but instead LOST it in the car! The big boys played soccer and the little guys went looking for fish, frogs, and turtles in the pond. Paul got his hands on a turtle and they all begged me to let them keep it. (I said no.)

I hope your week was good! What did you do?

6 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Free stuff/ Things to do in Colorado

The Pioneer Museum – A beautiful, historic, free place to visit in Colorado Springs!

I love Colorado Springs!

There are ENDLESS places to visit in this city.

One of my favorites is the Pioneer Museum.

The Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum was once the city’s courthouse – but is now a beautiful, historic building full of interactive stations and information about the history of our city. And it’s FREE to visit!! (Though they do accept donations)

There is parking all around the building that costs $0.75 an hour – so bring some change with you.

Walk inside and ENJOY the beauty of the marble lobby. You’ll also see an antique cash register that was used in 1912. You and your children can push the buttons to see how store owners collected money 100+ years ago!

One thing I love about the Pioneer Museum is that they change the displays on a regular basis. Every time I visit, I see and learn something new about Colorado Springs.

My first visit taught me all about the Waldo Canyon fires – with videos, pictures, and items on display donated by local residents.

Right now, the theme is “Colorado Springs from A to Z.”

The entry way … check out the antique elevator – SO FUN!

You learn something interesting about Colorado Springs with every letter of the alphabet. For example, A is for the Antlers Hotel. Pictures and artifacts from Colorado Springs FIRST hotel are on display.

Artifacts from Colorado Springs original hotel

Z is about Colorado’s first Zoo!

 

The room my children love most is on the main level – it’s a “Play Room” for kids. They have hands-on stations and toys that teach children about our city’s history. My boys set up shop, played on an Indian drum, road a horse, and played a game of checkers.

Paul playing at the Pioneer Museum

 

Luke loves the teepee

They also enjoy visiting the small gift shop. We bought them each a GEODE – rock that they could take home and break open to reveal beautiful crystals hidden inside.

Clark with a Geode – he couldn’t wait til we got home to crack it open

They also sell our book! Pick up a signed copy if you don’t already have one!

Another thing we all love at this Museum is the antique elevator that takes us up to the second floor.

On this level, you can walk through the original courtroom and imagine what it was like to be a judge, juror or lawyer 100 years ago.

The 2nd floor also has part of Helen Hunt Jackson‘s original home built into the museum.

You can view Indian artifacts and learn about the Indian heritage in Colorado Springs.

I won’t tell you about every exhibit, because you really must see and experience this place for yourself. If you’ve been, what do you love about this museum?

George getting into character in the photography room

Here some video clips of our visit:

Before or after the museum, get some food! Click here to read the best places to eat.

For a list of other free things to do around town, click here.

8 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Family/ Food/ Free stuff/ Memories/ Motherhood/ My Journey/ Peek into our Week/ Raising boys/ Things to do in Colorado

Peek into my week with Mom! (And my traumatic pedicure)

It’s always a good week when Mom’s in town. She only comes to Colorado once a year, so we make the most of our time together when she’s here.

She flew in Tuesday night, and the first thing she got to do was babysit my kids!

WEDNESDAY

I work on Wednesdays and thankfully, she loves to spend time with her grandkids.

That night we went to New Life for the First Wednesday service. It was an incredible night of worship. We went with all four boys – thankfully it’s a relaxed family service, so they got to dance around with their friends. If you live in Colorado Springs, you’ve got to come! It’s the First Wednesday of each month at 6:30 PM.

THURSDAY

Thursday morning Luke had preschool, so mom and I got to go our Mom’s group/Bible study. Up until now, my mom has only participated with the group online, so I loved getting to introduce her to so many of the ladies in person!

Thursday afternoon my mom kindly offered to pay for a pedicure while she watched the kids. (I’ve got a good mom!)

George decorating cookies with Grandma

I went to a salon close by that I’d never been to before. My pedicure was a little uncomfortable … at one point I felt a sharp stab in the corner of my toe. By that night, my toe was swollen.

FRIDAY

Friday my toe was still hurting but I got through the day by wearing comfy shoes. At church that night we baptized about 30 people. I love being a part of those special nights. Two of my sons were baptized a few months ago (I wrote about it here).

All the people getting baptized Friday night came up on the stage for prayer.

SATURDAY

We to the Pioneer Museum and then to LarkBurger for dinner. My mom agreed that their chicken sandwiches and fries are some of the best things she’s ever eaten!

That night, Ted stayed home with the boys and my mom and I went to see The Apostle Paul movie. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it was a GREAT movie…I recommend you see it! It truly brings the Bible to life and I hope more movies like this are made! There are some frightening parts, so it’s probably best for children 12 and up.

Pioneer Museum

Paul playing at the Pioneer Museum

SUNDAY

We explored Helen Hunt Falls and Cheyenne canyon, then went to Modern Market for dinner. (Kids eat FREE at Modern Market on Sundays!)

Helen Hunt Falls

Toe is still sore – wearing comfy shoes and limping.

MONDAY

The boys took the day off school to spend time with Grandma. We planned to visit Cave of the Winds, but Luke was up sick the night before, my mom wasn’t feeling good, and my foot was only getting worse, so we decided to stay closer to home and hike in the Garden of the Gods. That’s always an amazing place to visit.

Mom and Luke resting

Mom and Luke resting

That afternoon I decided to go back to the nail salon to show them my swelling toe and they told me it was an ingrown toe nail. They soaked it and then DUG at it with a knife. This is the toe that I didn’t want to touch because it was hurting so bad. The lady DUG at it with a knife. And she wouldn’t stop. She kept digging until she got a piece of my toenail free. It hurt so bad I just start crying right there in front of everyone. She squeezed it at the end and asked if it was better. “NO! You just dug at it with a knife – please stop SQUEEZING it!”

TUESDAY

Luke had preschool so mom, and I got to be Tourists in our Town. I got to show her all around town and drop copies of “Climb, Soar, Swim, Soar” off at Terra Verde and the Pioneer Museum who now have them available for sale!   I’ll write about where we ate and what we did in a future post.

Mom and me time!

That night mom watched the boys so Ted and I could go to dinner.

WEDNESDAY

I had to take my mom to the airport. It’s so hard letting her leave because I’m not sure when I’ll see her again. Mom, I love you and visit again soon! Thank you for spending the week with us!

 

TOE UPDATE:

My toe continued to get worse. I should have gone to the doctor rather than back to the scene of the crime. The lady who was digging at my foot caused a serious infection. My entire foot got so swollen that I couldn’t wear shoes. It hurt to walk. I was putting everything on it to make it heal, but nothing worked so I finally went to the doctor and got antibiotics. The doctor said I could lose my toenail. What was supposed to be a nice, relaxing gesture from my mom – turned into two weeks of severe pain and possibly the loss of my toenail?!  I’m not sure I’ll ever get another pedicure!? Have any of you ever had that happen? I have pictures, but they are really gross. If you want to see a picture – I am going to post some under my review of this nail salon here: YELP REVIEW. https://www.yelp.com/user_details?userid=GrsJ5Nir8YjXaNN91ZzTUg

Thanks for following along on week with mom! I’ll post out our DAY DOWNTOWN soon! Subscribe so you don’t miss a post.

5 In Colorado Springs/ Family/ Making money/ Motherhood/ My Journey/ Product Recommendations/ Review

Stitch Fix vs Sister Fix Disclaimer: Sister is HORRIFIED

Two of my friends were wearing the cutest outfits recently and I asked where they shopped. “Stitch Fix!” They both responded.

I decided to check this thing out.

I have four boys and shopping for clothes is not an easy or enjoyable thing for me – Stitch Fix is what I needed. No shopping required!

I got my first box of clothes and it felt like Christmas. I posted about it here.

A few months later I asked my sister if she would shop for me. I wanted to know how a “sister fix” would compare to a “stitch fix.” My sister enjoys shopping, knows my style, and I like that she knows how to find a bargain. She agreed to do it.

Below are my “Sister Fix” outfits that cost about the same as a box from Stitch Fix.

SISTER FIX PROS:

  • Sister buys things on sale – I get more for my money.
  • She knows my style.
  • She shopped, took pictures of outfits and mailed everything to me.
  • I loved nearly everything she purchased. I couple of items did not fit or didn’t look as good on me as they did on the hanger.

STITCH FIX PROS:

  • They ask lots of questions to understand your style.
  • They mail everything to you.
  • I spend NO time shopping or returning items.
  • I can try things on right in my own home and pair them with things I already own.
  • The box is fun to receive – it’s like Christmas morning.
  • They include a picture/style card of exactly how to wear each item.
  • They include an envelope to ship anything you want back at no additional cost.
  • If you refer people, you earn money towards free clothes!
  • $15 dollar credit towards your first FIX: http://stitchfix.com/referral/14898853 if you use that code to save yourself money and try Stitch Fix, I’ll earn money too!

SISTER FIX CONS:

  • Sister spent a lot of time picking out clothes for me – not convenient for her.
  • She took pictures, boxed and shipped everything – more of her time.
  • I had to go and return everything I didn’t like – my time doing stuff I don’t enjoy.
  • She sent me pictures of how to ‘style’ the items she sent, but I accidentally deleted it before the clothes arrived. (She resent them later!)

STITCH FIX CONS:

  • Items can be pricier than what I’d normally spend. I’m a TJ Maxx, Target and thrift store shopper!
  • I’ve heard it takes 2-3 shipments before they really start to understand what you want and like.
  • I only kept 1 item from my first “fix” – because I didn’t love the other items, and they were more than what I wanted to spend

Have you tried Stitch Fix yet? If you’d like to try it, click here for $15 off your first fix! 

Below is the video of me trying everything on.

DISCLAIMER: My sister was partially horrified and partially cracking up when she watched this video below. She does not want her name attached to it! 

She said I did NOT follow her advice in how to WeAR/Style the items she sent! We LAUGHED together about this – we are so different. She is a perfectionist when it comes to STYLE, and I did not LAYER and STYLE the items correctly. Sorry Sis! I need you to come and “style” me … I guess sending me clothes is not the answer – you actually need to come to Colorado and show me HOW to wear my clothes!

Anyway … the pictures above show the styling, the video shows the individual pieces and the fit!

Leave me a comment and let me know what you think! What should I keep? What should I never wear again!

 

0 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Family/ Peek into our Week/ Raising boys/ Things to do in Colorado/ Traveling

Our family of six braved Seven Falls!

Our Seven Falls Adventure!

This area is called the “GRANDEST MILE OF SCENERY” in Colorado and I think that describes it pretty well!  It really is spectacular and absolutely worth a visit or two (or seven)!

My husband took me to Seven Falls for my birthday a couple of years ago. We went on a “double date” with my sister and her husband. It was amazing. I definitely recommend this place for a date or double date spot! You get to chat, enjoy the scenery, connect with each other and with nature, all while getting some exercise! We LOVED it!

We’ve wanted to get back here ever since that first visit, so we decided to take all four of our boys during their spring break. We weren’t sure how it would go because our youngest two sons were only 3 and 6-year-olds and there is a lot of walking and climbing involved. Read on to find out how it all went!

To get started, park in the lot at the Broadmoor off of 1st street – next to the Golden Bee Restaurant. Parking is free, and a complimentary shuttle picks you up right there. After an 8 minute drive, you are dropped off at the ticket gate. The cost in the winter is $10 for adults, and $5 for children. Summer is $14.50 for adults and $9 for children over 2. Seniors and military $12.50. (Prices may change)

After you pay the entrance fee you are 0.8 miles from the base of the Falls, so you have two choices:

  1. Jump on a tram that will drive you to the base of the Falls. The cost is $2 per person. Seniors are free.
  2. Walk to the Falls. Walking allows you the opportunity to absorb this grand mile. The 6 of us chose to walk. Well, our 3 year old got a piggy back ride for most of it.

The Grandest Mile and my iPhone doesn’t do it justice.

When you arrive at the base of the Falls, I recommend that you start by walking through a tunnel inside the mountain. The corridor is lined with pictures and artifacts from history.

Tunnel through the mountain to the elevator

At the end of the tunnel is an elevator that will take you up to Eagle’s Nest landing. After spending a few minutes taking in the magnificent view…walk down the steps or ride the elevator back down.

Our family picture on the Eagle's Nest Landing

Next, walk past a trout pound and watch for the HUGE fish that occasionally jump up to say hello! Then, take a deep breath and begin the climb up the 224 VERY STEEP steps. Thankfully, there is a landing halfway up the staircase so that you can take in the view, rest your legs and catch your breath.

We didn’t know how our young boys would handle climbing more than 200 STEEP steps. Our three oldest sons did not complain ONE TIME. My husband carried our 3-year-old most of the way.   I can’t imagine having to carry 30+ extra pounds up all those steps. I was exhausted just getting myself to the top. However, 224 steps isn’t difficult for Ted, who climbs the Manitou Incline on a regular basis. The Incline is 2,744 steps – more than 10 times as many steps as Seven Falls.

If you make it to the top, you are rewarded with a gorgeous hike!

First, you’ll encounter a Ponderosa Pine Tree that’s more than 450 years old! Stop here and try to wrap your arms around this gigantic tree.  It took all four of our sons touching hands to get their arms around the trunk of this beautiful tree.

Next, you’ll come to a fork in the path. Go to the right for an easy, 20-minute hike. Go to the left for a hike that will take you about an hour. If you have children in tow, I recommend the shorter hike – we loved it. My sister took the long hike and said it was incredible. If you have the time and the energy, do both!

Next, SLOWLY walk down all the stairs. The climb down is easy but VERY steep and sometimes crowded. Keep ahold onto the handrail!

Stop at the bottom and relax in one of the wooden rocking chairs. Take a few minutes to enjoy the view and reflect on that beautiful hike you just completed.

Rocking Luke and enjoying the view

Take time to watch the trout play in the pond.

Hungry? Eat at the fabulous Restaurant 1858. I recommend the Chili Con Queso nachos. They are made with homemade wild boar chili, chips, cheese and pickled jalapeños.

For all my favorite restaurants in Colorado Springs, click here!

Slowly make your way back to the entrance where a shuttle will pick up and drop you off at the parking lot.

Before you leave, take time to stroll around the lake at the Broadmoor Hotel! This is one of the most beautiful hotels in the country and you’ve just got to see it – or stay the night.

I absolutely recommend that you make some time to visit Seven Falls in Colorado Springs. Add it to your bucket list now, and thank me later!

Watch to see how many #eglyboys it takes to hug the Ponderosa Pine!

For my top ten places to visit in Colorado Springs, CLICK HERE!
For the top ten things to do in Manitou Springs, CLICK HERE!
For 20 FREE things to do in Colorado Springs, CLICK HERE!
To get a signed copy of my Colorado Springs Children’s Book, CLICK HERE!

4 In 2019/ Book Review/ Joy

Get your Happy On – 7 tips for more JOY!

1. Pay attention to what you are paying attention to.

Do I think more about my disappointments or my blessings? Am I focusing more on what is going WRONG than what is going right?

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Neuroplasticity – moment by moment our brain is changing based on what we consume, what we think, and what we do. What we dwell on helps us or hurts us. It’s gradual – just like weight gain!

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We are sponges!

We soak up what we see, hear, and think! (Kids are even more spongy than adults.)

Proverbs 4:23: “Be very careful what you think. Your thoughts run your life.”

It’s easier to ‘magnify the minuses’ than to ‘promote the positives.’

It’s EASIER to Notice the Negative – this is why we need to be aware of it and pay attention to our thoughts.

Those lacking joy are paying excessive attention to the negatives.

The solution — read, watch, and think on the good stuff.

Glance at problems, glare at God!

Tommy Newberry

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2. Continually remind yourself of your blessings!

Meditate on the good. It’s easy to take for granted the blessings we’ve had the longest:
  • Fresh water,
  • our marriage,
  • a home,
  • heat and air conditioning,
  • blankets and a bed,
  • enough food to eat.
Keep a gratitude list/journal and add to it each day. Review it when you are feeling down!

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3. Each moment is a new beginning

Each day, even each moment, can be a fresh start.

It is because of the Lord’s lovingkindnesses that we are not consumed,
Because His [tender] compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
Great and beyond measure is Your faithfulness.

Lamentations 3:22-23, Amplified Bible

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You don’t need to be mad about something or someone you were mad at yesterday. In fact, when we are thinking negatively about someone, we are actually poisoning ourselves. We can’t feel good about ourselves when we feel rotten about others.

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Hate is a boomerang. If you spew it toward others, it comes back and creates self-loathing.

Joe DeSena

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4. Spend time with people who make you better.

If you want to become better in something, hang out with people who are better than you. Spending time with people who are consistently negative will rub off on you.
Years ago, I had a good friend who regularly talked negatively about her spouse. I found myself trying to find things in my spouse that were negative just so I could relate to her. Yikes!

Hang out with people who love you but challenge you to be the best version of yourself.

  • As I’m trying to be a good mom, I talk to moms who I admire or who have raised good kids.
  • Because I want a good marriage, Ted and I spend time with those who fight for their marriage.

Proverbs 27:17: “Iron can sharpen iron.In the same way, people can help each other.”

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5. Our current Emotions are not FACTS, they are FEELINGS

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What are emotions?

Emotions are subjective indicators of objective events

You are not your feelings – you are more than that. Life is a mixture of good and bad. Emotions may want you to feel bad when life, in general, is really good! Focus on the good that happens.

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Allocate your thoughts to the following categories:

  • Blessings
  • Things that I can fix (what CAN YOU do)
  • Scripture memorization
  • Service / contributing to others

 “…The cheerful heart has a continual feast.”

Proverbs 15:5

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6. Have an Early Morning Joy Ritual (EMJR)

Joy needs to start first thing in the morning.
EMRJ is one habit that will elevate your joy.
Start your day with:
– Writing down 2-5 things that bring you joy.
– Reading/memorizing a positive quote,
Daily declarations, or
– Reading, quoting or memorizing Scripture. 

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7. Finally, be on the LOOKOUT for good!

We have approximately 50,000 thoughts a day – 90% are repeats.
What I’m thinking about today predisposes me to repeat those thoughts tomorrow. If I’m thinking mostly negative today,  I’m more than likely going to do the same tomorrow.
In a previous post, I wrote about how we use our “Awesome Jar” to help us notice the GOOD that happens each day. We put notes in the jar of things that are “awesome” The jar forces us to look for what is going right and to talk about!

You will always find good if you look for it.

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Continue to think about the things that are good and worthy of praise. Think about the things that are true and honorable and right and pure and beautiful and respected.

Philippians 4:8

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Author Tommy Newbery, the inspiration behind this post!

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Do you need a daily dose of JOY!? Here are a couple of products I recommend:

  1. The Joy Challenge for Moms

An easy, daily, devotional-style book – written by women and for women! Read this for a little “joy boost” each day.  NOTE: Order this book and receive 40 days worth of inspirational daily JOY builder videos! A $40+ dollar value! 

2. The 4:8 Principle: The Secret to a Joy-Filled Life, by Tommy Newberry

3. Love Does, by Bob Goff 

This book will just make you laugh the whole way through, and sometimes, you just need a laugh! I could listen to and read Bob’s stuff all day every day! I just purchased the one for kids so I could read it with them!



Which of these tips resonates with you?

What are you reading/watching/listening to that brings you joy? Please leave a comment by clicking on the little comment box by the title of this post.

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Struggling with fear? Here are 12 verses that build your faith and fight fear.

Here is a Daily Declaration that we have printed on the fridge.

4 In Product Recommendations/ Raising boys/ Recipe

$5 Dinner for 5! (Plus: Delicious Garlic Butter Bread Recipe)

FIVE DOLLAR DINNER!

That’s what we had tonight and I just had to tell you about it!

Here’s how we spent so little on this dinner:

Pasta Sauce was on sale for $1 per jar

Spaghetti Noodles: $1

Turkey Meat: 1 Lb for only $1.50*

Loaf of bread: $0.50 **

Garlic Butter topping (See recipe below): Less than $1

Total: Dinner for 5 hungry men = Less than $5!!!

*When grocery shopping, look for meat that is on sale. King Soopers/Kroger was selling 1 pound packages of turkey for $1.50 because they were about to expire. I bought several packages and put them in my freezer.

**Did you know that Jimmy Johns sells day old bread only $.50 per loaf? We get these on a regular basis to make subs at home, or for garlic bread, egg casseroles, etc. They can be frozen too!

 

GARLIC BREAD:

  • 1/2 stick butter
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
  • 1 TB garlic
  • 1 TB Italian Seasoning
  • Thick slices from a loaf of bread

Soften butter, add other ingredients and mix.

Spread a thick layer on each slice of bread. Toast in oven for about 5 minutes. Enjoy!

0 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Family/ Free stuff/ Memories/ Motherhood/ Peek into our Week/ Raising boys/ Things to do in Colorado

Staycation in Colorado Springs – We were tourists in our own town!

We loved spending a week being “tourists in our own town” over Spring Break! This “staycation” was exactly what we needed. Time together, exploring our beautiful city. There are still SO many things on my bucket list to do an see around town, but we got to check a few things off the list.

Read on for some incredible things to do in Colorado Springs.

Monday

We had originally planned to take the kids skiing today, but after the crazy week we had recently that landed Ted in the hospital, we are taking a break from skiing for the rest of this season. Instead…

We spent the day at Seven Falls. Ted and I had been here before with my sister and her husband. We had the perfect “double date” here hiking and enjoying a delicious meal at Restaurant 1858. I’ve been wanting to go back so we decided now was the time.

We weren’t sure how our boys would do with all the walking and climbing, but they were TROOPERS! They enjoyed it and didn’t complain at all!

We walked through a mountain cave to an elevator which took us up to the Eagle’s Nest Landing – once you are on the landing, you get a spectacular view of the waterfall.

Next, we walked up 224 VERY steep stairs alongside the Falls. The boys did surprisingly well – I was in front and George actually asked me to “go faster!” (Ted carried Luke most of the way!)  If you conquer all those steps, you are rewarded with a beautiful trail to explore.

We spent time exploring at the top before we came back down and watched the very large trout play in the pond.

After all this hiking, we were hungry and everyone wanted Larkburger for dinner. We all love this place, and I love that we can get sandwiches for $3 during Happy Hour!!

Tuesday

Being a member of the YMCA means that you get access to all the campuses around town… each place has something unique for families to enjoy. Today we spent a few hours at the Cottonwood Creek Rec Center. They have a wave pool, lazy river and huge slide – it’s like a smaller version of Great Wolf Lodge.

Wednesday

I went to work in the morning for a couple of meetings and to do some Easter preparations.

After work, we went to another YMCA – the Garden Ranch location – where they have Rock Climbing and Jumpy Castles for kids!

Clark rock climbing

Thursday

First – in honor of Easter – we quietly snuck outside to “egg” our neighbors before they woke up. Go here to read about that.

After that, we went to the Western Mining Museum. Our oldest son George, age 10, had been begging us to take him back here since his first visit a few weeks ago with his class on a field trip.

The boys loved “mining for gold” (aka “playing in mud”). They found some fun little gems and everything you find; you get to take home!

There are lots of machines and hands-on stations. I recommend taking the guided tour that happens twice a day. The tour guide explained how the machines were used and fired each one up so we could watch how they work. The Guide taught us a lot about the history of Colorado mining. Outside the museum, there are more machines to climb on and explore, plus tons of room to run and play.

Friday

In the morning, all four boys went to the dentist to get their teeth cleaned. I love our dentist’s office – they have a room with four chairs and all my boys can get their teeth cleaned at the SAME TIME! Can I tell you how much I love that?! It’s a pediatric dentist – so the lobby is well-equipped for kids, the staff are GREAT with kids.  Since the boys all did well during their visit – they each earned a “token” which they redeemed for a small prize. There is even a playground as you exit the building!

That afternoon we enjoyed a couple of hours downtown. First we stopped at Story Coffee. It’s the cutest little coffee shop next to Acacia Park. And when I say little, I mean TINY…as in TINY house TINY. It’s not a place you’d sit and enjoy a private conversation or a board game. However, just outside the coffee shop is a park with tables. My latte was perfect and the baked goods we ordered were delicious.

After Ted and I loaded up on caffeine and the boys on sugar, the boys threw a football with Ted and played in the park.

That evening I went to New Life Church to serve in the children’s ministry during our incredible Good Friday Service.

Saturday

We spent the day in Cheyenne Canyon. We love exploring this place as much as Garden of the Gods because they are both:

  • free
  • gorgeous
  • have easy hikes for the whole family
  • contain endless opportunities for adventure and discovery

To end our week of “Touring our Town,” we had dinner at Phantom Canyon. This was a restaurant we visited during our first trip to Colorado Springs almost three years ago. The ambiance of this place is very cool – it’s in an old building downtown with large windows, tall ceilings and exposed ductwork. The staff is friendly and the restaurant has quality service. However, I wasn’t crazy about the menu. Lots of fried food. We ordered hamburgers and fries for the kids, which they enjoyed, but the hummus, soup and salad Ted and I shared were okay – but not something I’d care to order again. This place won’t go on my list of best restaurants in Colorado Springs.

Sunday

I arrived New Life church by 7:00 AM to prepare for the guests that would be arriving for the 8:00 AM service. Ted and the boys arrived later and we attended the 10:00 AM service together. I stayed to serve again for our third service. It was great day at New Life!

After church the boys enjoyed opening their Easter baskets and hunting for eggs in our backyard.

They had a second egg hunt to look for Resurrection Eggs. After the boys found all 12, we opened them one-by-one together and talked about the Easter story using the little items inside each egg. This was a fun activity, and you can probably find the eggs on clearance at Hobby Lobby and save them for next year. (That’s what I did last year!)

We enjoyed (and when I say enjoyed, I mean I couldn’t stop eating) a White Chocolate Raspberry Nothing Bundt Cake given to us by the Newman family. That cake is dangerous. It’s way too good!

That wraps up our week of adventure in Colorado Springs. We are grateful for time together as a family exploring our beautiful city! This was SO MUCH better week than last week!

If you don’t have a copy yet – a recommend you purchase my Colorado Springs Children’s book entitled – Climb, Soar, Swim, Explore


You can buy it on amazon by clicking here.

Or get a signed copy by clicking here.

I’ve also put together a list of free things to do in Colorado Springs here.

And 10 things you MUST to do in Colorado Springs here.

Thanks for following along on our adventures!

7 In Faith/ Family/ My Journey

GOOD NEWS!!!

Everybody expected Jesus to do what dead people usually do – stay dead. For what they intended as the end, was actually just the beginning. – Andy Stanley

Deb and Kathryn – December 2017

Today I’ve invited my step-mom Deb Freeman to write a guest post. I’m grateful for her love for me and her love for Jesus! Being a step-mom is not easy, but she’s done a wonderful job of teaching, encouraging, and being there for me and my siblings. I think it’s her relationship with Jesus that’s given her the strength and wisdom she’s needed to be a mom of EIGHT – three of her own, plus FIVE step-daugthers. This is her first guest post but definitely not her last!

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The Good News of Easter continues for all who have simply asked Jesus to be their Savior.

In the fall of 1980, my world started to spin out of control. Actually … it started to do that many years before, but now, it had reached break-away velocity, and a major UNRAVEL was taking place. I desperately needed help for a world I could no longer understand. I had come to the end of myself. I was 22, tired and exasperated. I NEEDED – HAD to have HELP to make it through the next day.

No matter how you would describe your story right now, there’s good news. Your story is not over. It’s not too late to change the story you’ll tell in the future. – Craig Groeschel

In all of the church services I had been in, all of the ruffly Easter dresses with red patent leather shoes I put on. All of the Vacation Bible school perfect attendance certificates I’d received and tucked into my desk; and all of the crafts about Jesus I had made ~~ no one had ever asked me if I wanted to ask Jesus into my heart. In an attempt to ease the pain, I even tried to read the Bible. Ohhhhh my goodness ~~~ DRY and BORING…like crispy dry & cardboard boring! Three minutes of reading, turned into a great NAP.

While attending a little church in North Webster, Indiana, on Sunday, November 9th, 1980 ~ Someone finally asked. The pastor wanted anyone interested in a New Life, Peace of Mind, Salvation in Jesus, to walk forward to the altar for prayer. Well, I wanted to, so very badly, but I was petrified. I couldn’t budge from where I sat. I can still see it in my mind ~~ the altar down at the front of the church looked like it was ten miles away, and I just knew that if I walked that distance, EVERYONE in that church would know just how creepy I was. How dirty I felt. What a loser I was, every failure I had in my life…. and …. I couldn’t do it. I was frozen in fear. So I stayed in my seat.

The end.

No, not really.

Two days later that little church sent some people to my home to pray with me. A simple PRAYER changed my life. The same Bible I used to think was DRY and BORING, would now cause me to stay up ALL NIGHT reading!! Goodness, Jesus changed Me!!

That simple prayer sent me on a GREAT adventure! I’m still on it.

So. How was Church this morning? Did someone ask you if you wanted to receive Jesus into your heart? ~~ Do you? Too scared? I get it. But listen to me, the ADVENTURE is TOO GREAT, the peace is magnificent and I don’t want you to miss it !! I mean…….wayyyyy too great …
Send a message if you want more info!
Hugs, Deb

God is not in love with some future version of you. It’s not you tomorrow that He loves and delights in. It’s not you when you get your act together….If you believe that Christ’s love for you is a future love for you, then you dismiss the cross of Christ. – Matt Chandler

Deb and a few of her grandchildren

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Hey friends, it’s Kathryn again! I wanted to share this post because, just like Deb, my life has been positively impacted by having a relationship with God, my Creator!

He is my Father, Friend, Wisdom, Peace, and Hope.

If those words describe something you WANT, then tell God you want to KNOW HIM! You can have a personal relationship with Him that will fill you will unspeakable JOY and PEACE in the midst of whatever you are facing.

Send me a message so I can encourage you.

1 In Faith/ Family/ Free stuff/ Raising boys

EGG-ed by the EGLYs

Today the Egly boys EGG-ed their neighbor.

If you are thinking raw eggs, a mess, and upset homeowners – perhaps something you’ve participated in (shame on you!) …. You aren’t familiar with this new era of EGGING! This egging leaves no mess, wastes no eggs, and leave everyone SMILING!

This is how the Egly boys Egg-ed our neighbors:

They simply placed 12 plastic eggs on their front lawn and left a little door hanger on their door.

The note told our neighbors to find 12 eggs – 11 filled and 1 empty. The empty egg represents the empty tomb: Jesus is Risen!

My boys had fun filling the eggs, hiding them, secretly hanging the door hanger on our neighbor’s door, then watching through our windows to see when their friends discovered the surprise!

If you’d like to participate in this fun little Easter activity, it’s simple!

  • Gather 12 plastic eggs,
  • Fill 11 of them with treats or prizes and leave one empty,
  • Write a note to leave on their door,
  • Surprise a friend or neighbor!

Is there evidence to support the Christian faith? Click here to read!