Family Archives - Page 10 of 14

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

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.

April 21, 2018 By Kathryn

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!

April 17, 2018 By Kathryn

1 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:

Jump on a tram that will drive you to the base of the Falls. The cost is $2 per person. Seniors are free.
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!

April 14, 2018 By Kathryn

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!

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!

April 2, 2018 By Kathryn

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!

______________________________________________________________________________________________

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

___________________________________________________________________________________________

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.

March 31, 2018 By Kathryn

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!

March 29, 2018 By Kathryn

6 In Family/ Motherhood/ Peek into our Week

Peek into our CraZy week

Last Friday the big boys went to school and Luke and I had the day together. He LOVES having me ALL to himself – he gets undivided attention!

He likes “reading” books to me, so I recorded him reading our book: Climb, Soar, Swim, Explore!

Saturday

Ted went skiing all day at Vail with some friends from Chicago. He had so much fun but at the end of the day, while skiing a black, slipped on ice and slid (head first!) more than 200 yards down a mountain. While sliding, one of his ski’s popped off and was jabbing him over and over in the side, until he could get himself to stop. He left that day with a gigantic bruise on the left side of his body.

Monday

Ted let me know that he wasn’t feeling well and decided to get the “Ski Wound” checked out. Well, the doctor called the wound “BLUNT TRAUMA” and found that he had internal bleeding. They admitted him to the hospital and began running tests to find out more about the internal bleeding.

Memorial Mission Statement

Tuesday

The hospital trauma team met with Ted and went over his two options to further investigate where the bleeding was happening: option #1.) cut Ted open, option #2.) put scopes inside to identify where the bleeding was happening. They landed on option #2 (thank God!).

I spent the day in and out of the hospital between all the drop offs and pick ups and regular mom stuff. More waiting for answers and for an opening to get the scope done.

Every Tuesday, our local Chick-Fil-A has a family night and this week they had planned a mall-wide Scavenger hunt. Though I wanted to skip this and just be with Ted in the hospital, I had already promised the boys we would go. Having Daddy in the hospital was stressful on all of us, so doing the Scavenger Hunt was a nice way to take our mind off of that and just have fun together!

Scavenger Hunt Mission: Try on a HAT at the Hat Store

Mission: Do a Taekwondo kick by Mr. Taekwondo

After the Scavenger Hunt, a sitter came to our house so I could spend time with Ted at the hospital. The nurse let us know that they should finally be able to fit Ted in for a scope sometime that night, but she didn’t know when.

Since we didn’t have any specific timeline, Ted thought I should go home and be with the kids.

It was so hard on me having Ted in the hospital. I was TIRED physically and emotionally. Not having answers, not knowing when he would be released, not knowing if he was okay, so much waiting and trying to be strong for our boys while their Daddy was in the hospital was HARD! Thankfully, I have a sister who is a nurse and she was able to help me through all of this. I was able to cry on the phone with her and she prayed with me and helped me know that the waiting and not having definite answers is NORMAL!

Late that night, Ted called to let me know that he was going in for the scope. I hated not being there with him! He called me again about 2 hours later to say all was well. They had found bleeding, cauterized it, and now he was going to try to rest.

Wednesday

I brought the boys by to see Ted, then dropped them off at school. Luke and I went back to the hospital and hung out with Ted.

I asked the nurse if she had any idea when he would be released. At first, she said they might want to keep him another 24 hours! UGH! Thankfully, since Ted was doing well, they finally released him and by the afternoon we were ALL able to head home. YAY!

It was SOO good to finally have Ted back home. I’m incredibly thankful for HEALTH and LIFE and FAMILY! The doctors said this could have been much worse.

Thursday

Ted rested and worked from home, and started feeling better!

That night was Family Night at New Life. It’s a fun and free event we do once a quarter to bring families together. There is a central “theme” and then activities all over the church that teach that theme. I took the three big boys and let Luke stay home with Ted.

Friday

Ted was feeling good, the injury was getting smaller, and he went back to work!

Thank you to a friend Corey for this sweet bouquet!

That was a rough week! This week is going to MUCH better! Ted is off and the boys are on Spring Break so we are going to do some fun touristy things around town!

March 26, 2018 By Kathryn

3 In Family/ Motherhood/ Product Recommendations/ Raising boys

Five FUN Easter Basket Fillers!

Easter is just around the corner, and my kids are so excited! I’ve been slowly collecting little things for their Easter Baskets. If you’re interested in any of the items for your family, click on the picture and it will take you directly to that item on Amazon. If you decide to make a purchase, I will receive a small affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

Socks

Do your kids go through socks as fast as mine do? This is why my kids are getting socks for Easter instead of candy. (I’m only halfway kidding) Thankfully, my boys still LIKE getting new socks, so this is FUN for them!

2. Drawing pad/sketchbook

I like for my kids to have a BLANK pad of paper somewhere close by at all times. Whether you have a child who is 2 or 22 – they will DRAW and draw and color and draw if given blank paper and pencils. This set I’ve linked to below is a pack of four for only $7.99- perfect if you have more than one child’s basket to fill.

3. New markers or crayons, or colored pencils

The erasable colored pencils below are something my son has asked for, and they are only $3.39 on Amazon right now – less than half of what they cost in the store. The twistable crayons are a great price too! I’m getting my bigger boys the pencils and the little guys the crayons.

4. LEGO Holiday Easter Egg Hunt Building Kit

For your son or daughter who loves to build – this is an Easter Lego set! My son George told me all he wants for any occasion are Legos.

5. Devotional for kids

In this post, I will recommend the best Bibles for different age groups. However, if your son, daughter or grandchild already has a Bible – perhaps you could add a devotional to their Easter Basket. Here are some recommendations:

Indescribable: A Bible Devotional for kids about God and Science:

This Devotional has amazing reviews Amazon and was written by a fantastic author and speaker: Louie Giglio. We just received ours in the mail and LOVE IT!!!! It’s got fascinating facts about Creation and such good insight into God’s word. It’s a book that my boys and I will enjoy together

3 minute devotional for boys (ONLY $3.56!!)

I just bought this for my son’s Easter Basket. 3 minutes sounds about right for my active boys!

3 minute Devotional for girls:

Purpose Driven Life Devotional for kids – Based on the Best Selling Devotional for Adults, this children’s devotional has tons of positive reviews!

And one final suggestion:

If you haven’t yet purchased a copy of “Climb, Soar, Swim, Explore!” …. then NO basket will be complete without this book! Find it on amazon buy clicking here. This book has all 5 star reviews and is a fun Colorado adventure story for kids ages 1-10. You will enjoy this story and learn some fun facts about Colorado Wildlife!

Or get a signed copy for only $10 delivered by clicking here.

Do you have other suggestions? Leave me a comment to let me know what your child is getting for Easter this year!

March 15, 2018 By Kathryn

4 In Colorado Springs/ Family/ Raising boys

A Peek into our Week

Can you spot four hooligans?

Last Thursday:

I got a call from Paul’s teacher saying he wasn’t feeling good. I picked him and he and I cuddled on the couch most of the day. He threw up about 5 times!

That evening we had a Volunteer Gala at New Life Church – an evening set aside to celebrate all of those who volunteer at New Life.

I got all dressed up and even put on hose (does anyone remember those). The #eglyboys had never seen them. I walked down the stairs and Clark asked what happened to my legs and will it come off.

George said, “Mom, don’t wear those! Your leggings are SEE THROUGH!”

Paul told me I just looked weird. Luke comes over to touch my leg and looks at me sadly, like something terrible had happened to his mama and he wasn’t sure what do to. Well, I kept the panty hose on, in spite of all the protests, and attended the Gala for just one hour. It was so much fun and I really wanted to stay, but I had a sick son at home and knew I needed to be with him.

Friday:

Paul was feeling good and back to his regular self, but I kept him home from school just to be sure.

That night I went to New Life Friday night. I love seeing so many new volunteers serving and loving on kids on the 250 kids that come each Friday night!

While I’m so incredibly thankful for the volunteers that are serving, when you have a growing ministry, you always need more hands serving and hearts loving the children who attend each week. Here are 17 reasons why!

I was chatting with a dad at the end of the service. He let me know that their family was moving out of state and their kids were so worried that they’d never find a church like New Life where ‘the leaders let us serve!” This dad was so encouraged by the positive impact New Life had on his family and would really miss being a part of our church family!

Saturday:

In the morning Ted made the boys and I breakfast (and really strong coffee for me).

It was a gorgeous, sunny day and the boys played in the backyard for a couple hours. During this time, George created his very first video! (Check it out at the bottom of this post!)

Later we went on a hike on a new trail. We were on the hunt to find a deer carcass that my sister had discovered at this location.

The hike was incredible and at the end, Ted (Mr. Details who doesn’t miss anything) found the bones of the deer a little off the trail. The boys loved examining it and imaging what might have caused it to die. (A bear?? A snake?) Clark asked if we could bring it home. (Um, no!)

Mission accomplished: We found the BONES!

That night Ted and I got to go out on a date and try a new restaurant called, Odyssey Gastro Pub. It was a quaint little pub that had Uh-mazing brussel sprouts, really good wings, and tacos that were just okay. (After eating the world’s best tacos at Bien Trucha in Geneva, Illinois, nothing else compares.) Our server at the Gastropub was from Oswego, Illinois…just down the rode from where we used to live!

Date night with Ted!

After dinner we spent a little time wandering through Poor Richards book store. Have you guys been there? That place is SO cool! They sell new and used books and have a section for “local authors.” An employee invited me to bring some of my books to sell!!

Sunday:

I went to the New Life Young Adults service to invite them to serve (17 people said yes!). Yay! Ted met me at church with the boys and we attended the 11 am service together as a family. Pastor Brady is teaching a great series on the book of Psalms.

Monday:

I had a whole bunch of errands I wanted to run, but decided that we needed a SLOW day. So I stayed in my yoga pants all day and didn’t put on any make up. One of the ‘errands’ was to get to

the gym but since we were staying home, I just turned on some fun music and Luke and I just danced for 20 minutes. That was WAY more fun. I did most of my work out with him on my back and he giggled the entire time.

Monday afternoons the boys have Chess Club and they LOVE IT! Paul asks me to tell him how many more days til Chess!

Tuesday:

I took Luke to school, then went to volunteer in Paul’s class. After that I worked for about an hour, then drove downtown to drop off a few copies of “Climb, Soar, Swim, Explore!” They were excited to have them because they don’t have any children’s books about Colorado!!!

On the way home, I picked up food from El Taco Rey. I’d been wanting to try their food since before we even moved here and I finally had an opportunity! It was really good! Their chips and salsa were great, and the enchiladas covered in green chili were delicious! The restaurant itself is really small and simple, so I’d recommend taking food to go rather than eating there.

Tuesday night I took the boys to the park while George had his piano lesson.

Wednesday:

I went to work in the morning. I’m honored to be a part of such a great team and do work that I love!

Wednesday night, George has his last Cotillion for this year. The last night is held at the Broadmoor and parent’s attend to see what their sons and daughters have been learning.

I loved getting an opportunity to dance with George!

Thanks for reading about our week – how’s your week been?

Below is the first video George made. They love playing with their nerf guns and made a movie of their ‘battle!’ They just launched their own channel and would love for you to subscribe!

March 7, 2018 By Kathryn

3 In Family/ Motherhood

A day in the life of a MOM

I’m thankful that I’ve been able to be home with my kids since becoming a mama. While I’ve always done something to bring a little money in, whether that’s working part-time, selling on eBay, or watching other children inside my home, my main role is wife and mama. (I wrote a little more about this, click here to read)

It’s been a JOY to be the mom of four precious boys – to watch them grow and learn. It’s a big job, and I’m usually exhausted by bedtime, but it’s so very rewarding! I’m grateful to my husband for how hard he works so that I can be home with them. He also supports me and cares for our boys so that I can work part-time at a job I love. My mom stayed home for the first few years of my life and those were precious memories.

Here’s what a day looks like for me:

Wake up at 5:45.

Eat a piece of Dakota Bread (from Great Harvest Bread Company) toasted with strong, black coffee.

Spend a few minutes in our family room reading, writing, praying. Write down 1-3 things I want to accomplish today.

Kids wake up.

We read from the Storybook Bible or I ask them to read a book of their own.

They watch Curious George while I make them breakfast and pack their lunches.

Teeth brushed, dressed, beds made.

Walk or drive to the bus stop. Speak encouragement on the way:

“Today is the day that the Lord has made, we will REJOICE and be Glad in it!”
“You can do all things through Christ who gives you strength!”
“Don’t let anyone look down on your because you are young, but set an example in speech, life, love, faith and purity!” I Tim 4:12

Run errands or exercise with Luke.

Come home and have lunch. Read a book to Luke.

Lay Luke down for a nap.

During nap time:

Put in a load of laundry.
Get dinner prepped (this is my goal, not always reality. Sometimes it’s dinner time before I’m thinking about dinner).
Write for my blog, check email, do some ministry work.

Luke wakes up and we walk to pick the big boys up at the bus stop.

Unload backpacks and wash hands.

Have a snack and do homework.

Play, read, practice piano. Take the boys to sports or other activities.

Dinner.

World’s Best Daddy

Finish homework/read/watch a show.

Shower/bath/pajamas/brush teeth.

7:30 PM – Bedtime! I sing a song with each child, every night. I pray individually with them or we all pray together. More about our bedtime routine/prayer if you click here.

Clean up after dinner. (Ted will do this if he doesn’t have work to do! He’s also the world’s best laundry folder!)

Ted and I now have some time to read/watch a show/ work on blog/book or ministry stuff.

Go to bed between 9:30 and 11.

This is a typical SAHM (stay at home mom) day. I also work some days/evenings and those days look differently. We also don’t have sports and activities every night – thank goodness!

What’s your day look like? What’s your feedback on my day? Leave a comment!

March 5, 2018 By Kathryn

Older Posts

Newer Posts

Family