A really, really, really long post.......

Greetings Family :)

I hope you all are enjoying your snow and staying warm up in Michigan. We finally got some of your weather down here and as I'm writing it is snowing :) My roommate and I are praying for a snow day tomorrow. (her name is Candace and she's great! She moved here from CA and works for Congressman Doolittle) I think DC is the only place where you still get snow days even though your not in school!! People see snow flakes and they freak out. I actually prefer they don't drive, because they have NO IDEA how to drive in snow!!! Anway, about my living situation, I moved (for the 3rd time since I've been out here!) at the begining of January. I flew home from Christmas break, packed up, and moved on January 7th. And as of this week, I have FINALLY offically lived here for over 1 week :) My Janaury was a blurr!!! I got home from Christmas on Dec. 31st, and as you all are aware, President Ford had passed away so they had all the funeral events starting on Jan. 2nd, after New Years Day. Needless to say we had a few busy days in the office. The cool thing was some of us staff got to go to the funeral at the Washington Cathedral. We got an official escort up to the Cathedral with the other Members of Congress, which I have to say, was probably the hi-lite. There were even black suburans and guys with guns following us, just like on tv :) Anyway, it was pretty humbling to be able to experience part of history in the making. It still amazes me how God works and the places he puts us in life!!! After the funeral events, we had full staff training Tuesday evening - Thursday. Friday I finished packing, Saturday I moved, and Sunday I unpacked. Oh yeah, I went to the Dr. in there and found out I had a viral infection along with a fever....was fabulous :( Monday-Wednesday I worked and then packed Wednesday evening and flew out Thursday morning (6:00am) for Honduras. Which leads me to my trip - I had a BLAST!! There were definitlely some hi-lites, but before I get to those, be forwarned, if you ever fly in to see Tash, the flight in is something else!! You know is going to be fun when the Pilot comes on and tells you that your going to be making a "series of turns"!! You basically go up over a moutain range and drop down into the valley. Only to find that the runway your supposed to land on looks like its a strip of pavement!! I was like, man, where in the world are we going to land (as we're pretty much skimming the tops of houses at this point). Then I see this little strip of tar and I thought, "huh", that CAN'T be it, but sure enough, it was. And the lady sitting next to me, who didn't speak a lot of English, was saying, and I quote, " this pilot is not very good"!!! Needless to say, I was VERY happy to finally be on the ground :) Okay, on to the hi-lites.

1.) Seeing Tash teach. We got to go and sit in on her classes (which we pretty much taught one afternoon because we were "special guests"), and meet her kids. There's not doubt they love Ms. Scott :) Not so great of a hi-lite = she made us come up to school one afternoon and help her correct exams. I told her I was on vacation, but you can only guess how well that went over.....

2.) Getting to see where Tash lives, meet her roommates, and see "her" city.

3.) "Our" smiley dog :) He was soo cute! Paula and I walked by him every time we went up to school.

4.) Laying out in 80 degree weather, swinging in the hammocks at the hotel in Ceiba and falling asleep listening to the oceans crash on the shore every night.

5.) Seeing Tash use her Spanish! This old guy tried to rip us off when we were trying to get a taxi and Tash laughed at him and let him have it in Spanish. After he walked away, a couple of other guys who were standing by us and had heard the whole conversation basically said the same thing, yeah, he was trying to rip you off. Once we had found a taxi at a normal rate and we were walking over to his car, the old guy came back over to us and opened the car doors for us. I think he might have felt a little guilty :)

6.) Going snorkeling for the first time. I kept thinking of the Little Mermaid song, "Its a whole new World" :)

7.) The driver of our boat all of a sudden stopping in the middle of the ocean, jumping out (I'm hoping he's coming back at this point) and then came back to the boat with 6 absolutley beautiful starfish....

8.) The biggest hi-lite of all, being able to hang out with my sisters.

Okay, I know, when I post, its long, but, I have a lot to say (I know some of you are laughing right now!!) I hope you enjoyed the pictures.

Much love to you all,

Leah

Upside Down

"The baby arrives and the world is turned upside down. How utterly irrelevant are things that yesterday seemed vitally important"

Hi Everyone! This is Robin Polavin (Ben's wife). I've so enjoyed this blog and learning more about each of you, so this afternoon Ben taught me how to do this (he is a patient man) so that I could share a little part of me on here as well. The quote above kind of outlines what our life has been like for the past 6 weeks - and we'd never go back. I am not sure if all of you know our situation, but we had been trying to have little Avary for about 3 years. After finally determining that in-vitro gave us the best chance at having a child of our own, we were blessed to have been able to have her on the third (and what we had determined would be the final) attempt. What a miracle she is! I just stare at her and can still hardly believe that she's here, and that she's a part of both of us. What a journey it was to get to this happy ending. I am thankful for the lessons we learned both in patience and in learning that we are not in control. And a part of me is thankful for the "suffering" because it makes you stop and appreciate every single second of the "good".

So for those of you who so faithfully kept us in your prayers throughout this pregnancy - we are so thankful. There is no doubt in my mind that it was because of those prayers that my pregnancy went so smoothly.

On a less "serious" note, I have posted our latest family portrait - taken when Avary was about a week and a half old. Since the only picture posted on this blog of me was "post-birth" (thanks Ben!) I thought it'd be nice if you could take a peak at the 3 of us when I wasn't in my hospital gown. :)

Hope you all have a fabulous week!

Much Love,

Robin

Portland News

Hello Everyone! Kim here posting the Thelen news! It's been a while so Brenda thought maybe she should update everyone on what's happening in their neck a the woods! I'll just run down the line with each one starting with Brent. He had some exciting news today and that's that he found out he has an Associates Degree in Arts and Business! You're wondering, as were we, how in the world he didn't know he had this degree and now 10 years later it appears right?!? Well....he was digging through his transcripts and discovered his GVSU papers. After looking through them he started thinking that after 18 credits/semester for 4 years he should've had SOME degree. So he called an Advisor and met with him today. It seems that he's had the degree all along but never knew there was an application to be filled out so they would send it to him. He just figured the college would send him the degree once he finished. Kinda bittersweet in that he's had it all along but is just now able to use that on his job applications! They're all excited about the news and he's even thinking of getting his Bachelors since its only 24 credits away! He's still in the job search so prayer that the right one comes along and BAM! hits him square in the face would be fab!! =)
Brenda is doing swell....no pun intended since she is 28 weeks along now! =) She's feeling "big and pregnant" were her exact words but all in all is feeling great. She's still doing daycare and is busy with that along with the boys obviously!
Onto the adorable boys pictured above! (that was taken New Years Eve by the way!) Gavin is SUCH a smartie pants in school and is doing wonderful. He has such a thirst for knowledge and loves to learn new things. More importantly he remembers them and hauls 'em out when ya least expect it! His 7th birthday is coming up in a couple weeks and he's having his first slumber/birthday party and is extremely excited. He's got 4 friends (along with his Titi!!) that are spending the night. (now honestly folks....it's such a heart melter to hear from Brenda that when he was deciding who was coming he goes "well MOM titi's coming isn't she?") I wouldn't miss it for anything...what a special time together! A little rowdy and loud but treasured time in my book for sure! =)
Caden is....well Caden! He's such a funny kid with a smile that lights up any room! He's gotten really comical and is fun to chase around and play with. He LOVES to read books and ride his new quad he got for Christmas! He also been potty training (he's not even 2 until July 24!!) and sortof initiated that on his own. She told me today that last night he just climbed up on the toilet and went without anyone even telling him! HELLO.....what kid does that?!?! =) He's a hoot to say the least and him and Gav certainly have a very close bond.
I guess that about does it for the Thelen news....they send everyone all their love. And thanks Aunt Renee for so faithfully sending the blog so they can keep in touch even without a computer! Ta ta for now....

walking on the beach

Hello all~

Just an update for you all. I talked to my mother (this is katie by the way)yesterday and her and aunt ruthie made it safe to Florida to have a week vacation walking on the beaches and enjoying the sunshine. They said that grandma and grandpa are very happy down there. So don't feel too bad for them because as I was talking to my mom she was walking on the beach picking up sea shells. Rough life huh? Just thought all of you would like the update.

Here is a pic to boot. I had too much time on my hands. Love you all. Have a great day!

BarbaraGrace

Hi Everyone, Just thought I'd update you all. I will be starting my new job on Monday. I will be working out of Holland employed by LSS: Parent Center. It's a really cool place that has families, parents and Kids at the heart of all they do. So you know I'm gonna be loving it! There are actually three organizations under the LSS roof, Parent Information and Resource Center, a Federal program, Parents As Teachers, we are the state headquarters, and Communities and Schools, which is a state organization as well. So you can see what we do is quite diverse, but it all has to do with kids. I will be working mostly in the area of early childhood education. I will be educating and raising money at the local and state level. I will only need to in my office once a week for my new boss Deanna Depree' and I to connect. She is allowing my GREAT flexibility which means that I can have Fri. off with my hubby, go to the cottage, I can combine my Lansing trips for LSS with other meetings I need to have for a group I am working with on Prayer for the government of Mi., I can go help take care of my two new grandchildren, I can take time to go on a trip with Gramma and Grampa TB to TN. to see Bradley and gang in March, etc. Sounds like a job made JUST for me? WEll it was Deanna created the position for me. As we prayed for the leading of The Lord, and we just weren't sure about this job (only because of the pay), I heard this voice ask, "since you've been praying for me to guide your decisions, do you think the fact that you only have one job offer just might BE direction?" Duh!! So my first week will be spent in Orlando at a conference with Deanna, not too shabby of a first week hey?
I am also starting a new 501c4 with another ex-rep called International Travel Organization (ITO). We are working with The National Foundation Of Women Legislators to organize travel trips for state Reps and senators across the nation. Our mission is to increase knowledge and exchange in Commerce, Culture, and government. I was in DC for two days with her (we stayed with Leah) we made initial visits to the embassy of France, Australia, Japan, and China. It was a really interesting trip!! You can pray it all works out. This is one of those opportunities that came knocking on my door and I'm not so sure about exactly where it's going but I am trying not to figure it all out and let God be God. God idea huh?


Other "jobs" that I am moving into are the Vice-chair of the Ottawa county GOP, I was also appointed to the Ottawa County Mental Health Board which meets once a month. I am helping to organize a group which will focus on increasing the numbers of women involved in the Republican party state wide.

I have said NO to many more "opportunities" I
am TRYING not to get too busy.

Stacey, THANK YOU for organizing this way for our fam to hang more tightly!!! It has been such a blessing to me!!

Love and Prayers to all, Barbara

Ashton Lowell update

Dearest Ones, Ashton did not have any surgery( adenoids, tubes and etc.) on the 2nd of February. The Dr.s have decided to do the surgery at DeVos Children's Hospital instead of North Ottawa because of possible complications. We have no new dates & do not know if the heart surgery scheduled for the 9th of March will be a go now or not. Emotional whiplash to say the least, but we know THE ONE who orders our days and steps so we chose to rejoice, thanks for listening and continuing to pray. O.G.I.G. Much Love Aunt Donna

Grandpa & Grandma Update

Grandpa & Grandma called and have made it safely to Venice, Florida! They love their location and all is well.

Latest Lowell Family update 1/31/07

Dear Ones, Thank-you for your prayers. Please continue to pray. Ashton will be having tubes in his ears this Friday the 2nd instead of the heart surgery because of continuing ears infections. His heart surgery has been re-scheduled for the 9th of March. They will go in for testing on the 8th. We so appreciate all the love & prayers on their behalf. Love Aunt Donna

0 to 14 in 10 hours

Yee hah we got snow in Hamilton. We went from hardley any to about 14 inches overnight. I love waking up and watching(after I put my glasses on) the snow fall and seeing the world bright and white. I am about to go snow blow, which is just plain fun as long as it doesn't happen everyday. wish I had a pitcure of the snow haven't taken one so an updated one of Avary will have to do. Enjoy today and laugh out loud, laughter is carbonated holiness you know.
In that nature I will tell a couple of G-pa jokes.
How do you catch a unique rabbit......? unique up on it.
How do you catch a tame rabbit...? The tame way, unique up on it.

Mystery Bug

Okay so this is kinda gross but necessary so hang in there. I found this "thing" on the wall by Makayla's bed as I was putting her down for her nap last week. Ewww!!

I tried looking it up online already but couldn't find anything that looked like it. I tried ticks, mites, bed bugs, fleas....nothin'.

It freaks me out just a tad knowing it was in my nice clean house....if anyone has any clue post a comment will ya?

Thanks - Kim

Hi-Ya from T.C.

Sooo...does anyone else hate "naming" your blog everytime you post one?!? Not so much likin that step of posting a blog!! =)
We Veldermans have got lots going on here. First and foremost is the exciting news that I'm pregnant with a little miracle!!! Needless to say all 3 of us, especially Makayla, are very excited and anxious already for the baby to come! Dan and I keep laughing to eachother saying it's going to be a long 9 months because Makayla talks about the "baby in mommy's tummy" at LEAST 3 times a day. Then she'll proceed to say that she'll be able to help with the baby's bath, changing the diaper (hmmm...how can mom use that one to her advantage?!?), holding the baby, putting the baby in the wagon, etc.
After rambling on for several minutes yesterday morning she stopped suddenly and said "Mom, where IS the baby?" I explained that Jesus is growing the baby in my tummy and it won't be for quite a while until it's ready to come out and she suddenly burst into tears and buried her head in my legs. She got herself all excited about helping out and then realized it's not going to be anytime soon. I felt SO bad for her and of course scooped her right up and we talked about it. What an awesome big sister she'll be!
She figured out that the room in the basement which is currently the guest room will be her's soon - and the fact that it'll be next to Poppy and Nana's room (the guest room that we're adding in the basement) thrilled her beyond belief. So here's your warning Mom and Dad, once you're both down there together you may get woken up a TAD earlier that you may like!! =)
Which brings me to the basement.....might I just say what a FABULOUS handy husband I have!! Handy Danny .... that's his new nickname! He's got everything framed in and has his boss coming over this afternoon to go over the electrical stuff which apparently is the next step. I have been very impressed with his knowledge of finishing a basement....especially since he's never attempted something like this before. He always get's all embarrassed when I tell him how smart he is, but seriously he was blessed with brains!!! I'll have to take some more pictures on his progress and post those.
I guess other than that, we're just keeping busy with day to day stuff. Barb and Aaron stopped by for a "hello" on their getaway weekend. Always so nice to see family up here. We'll put it out there again that anytime you guys are in the area please look us up. Dan and I both LOVE to entertain and it's really fun to get to know everyone a little better while they're here.
Oh and by the way my due date, which could always change once I get to the doctor (that won't be for a month or so yet) is Sept. 25. Prayer for a healthy baby and pregnancy is always apprecited.

Lots of Love,
Dan, Kim, Makayla and Baby =)

California or Michigan?

Thought I would post a couple of pictures . . . one of the beautiful view from the pier at Pismo Beach in CA looking back at our hotel. . . (if you look closely, you can find a surfer . . .kind of like searching for Ms. Beasley in the White House gardens, however, there really is a surfer . . .Leah)

Anyway, I went with my friend Amy, just for fun, and she couldn't have found a more perfect spot.

The other picture is the snow coming down through the pine trees at home today. So although CA was sunny and NO snow, I have to say that it is quite beautiful here in Michigan.

Other news, Ryan broke his wrist last night snowboarding down his own backyard hill; he went and had it checked out today and is wearing a semi-hard cast until the swelling goes down. Ross hasn't flown yet as the weather conditions and/or mechanical issues have kept him grounded (good flight lingo, don't you think Ross?)

NEW CHANGES!!!

OK obviously this looks a little different than before, but since we're changing...might as well go all the way! Change is GOOD! From now on you will have to sign on to the new blogger, and use the information that I gave you. If you didn't get it. Email me, or post a comment. I hope you enjoy. stacey

Blog Updates

Hello Everyone....I have sent most of you emails about changing the sign in information for posting on the blog. If you did not get the email just email me at staceyshrontz@yahoo.com and let me know and I will get the info to you. I am changing it so that we will have the most current version. I think it will make everything faster, I know my blog does. Anyway...email me or post a comment if you have ANY questions at all.~Stacey

love.....from the U.P.

I love being a mommy!

hello all,
this is Lindy! Ah, I have gotten out of the house and am back to life in a somewhat "normal" fashion! Thank you Kim for posting the pictures of Isabelle for us, that was much appreciated! Yes, adam and I have a daughter, boy, that is wierd to say, and if I might brag just a bit she may just be one of the cutest babies I have ever come across...not that I am biased or anything. Things are going great! My labor and delivery, although kinda long (24 hours, I was induced) I actually felt little to no pain ( I love the person that invented epidurals) so for all of you gals who have yet to have a baby, its not that bad if you have an epidural, actually, I would do it again in a second....its the weeks following the birth no one tells you about...thankfully your on a high so you don't think about it so much. I was given Pitocin and it didn't work so my Dr. broke my water and I went from four to ten in just a few hours..four pushes and there she was....and we couldn't love her more!
Adam is an awesome daddy and Isabelle is definately a "daddys girl" because when she gets upset he can calm her right down. She is getting so big already. I'll post another picture soon, when I can find a local scanner that I can put the pics on.
Anyway, just wanted to say hi. Ben and Robin, your daughter is beautiful! Hope this finds you all healthy and well.
Lindy

Katie's beau.....

So uncle david. This post is for you. I am dating a firefighter and thought you would like to know that.

His name is eric and he works for the Colorado Springs Fire Department. He is the one on the right by the way. It is kinda fun dating a fire fighter, except today we had a huge apartment fire in the springs and he was working it and you have no idea if they are ok or really what is going on.

Just thought you all would like an update since I don't get to live by ya'll for you to meet him.

love you all and hope you have a great day!!!

katie

Lowell Family Update

Dear ones, if you didn't already know, Vince & Lisa have asked me to communicate with all of you and request prayer concerning their 15 month old son, Ashton. Ashton has to have heart surgery. He has two issues; a 40% blockage in one of his arteries that supplies blood to the lower extremeties and Ashton has a heart valve that should be three parts, but has only two. The valve will require monitoring in the future. It is not an emergency, but it is very serious. They will be traveling to Ann Arbor on February 1st for some more tests, to verify his condition & then he will have surgery on the 2nd to repair the blockage. They will be staying in Ann Arbor for three to four days. So, you faithful prayer warriors, please remember Ashton & Vince & Lisa.
Thank you in advance for listening, caring & praying. If you would like to contact Vince & Lisa their phone number is 616.844.3023.

Love Uncle Jon & Aunt Donna

Traverse City

After a full day of delivering Ross to Northwestern College in Traverse City, everyone is settling in and adjusting . . . Here are a few pictures of his dorm, West Hall, his room and very helpful, sweet girlfriend Ashley helping him unpack. He insisted that he did NOT want to mix his underwear and socks with his shirts. . . . .hello. . have you seen his room at home??? There was lots of 'mixing' going on . . . on the floor!

He has orientation 8:00 Monday morning at the airport and will have his private pilot's license by spring! We are excited for you Ross!

Here is his contact information:

231-995-1662 room phone
rmtb191@hotmail.com (he will have internet on Monday)
616-446-0655 cell phone

Ross M. TerBeek
Northwestern College
West Hall 256
1701 E. Front
Traverse City, MI 49686

Ahh...the joys of a house

So...guess ya can't guess what we're smack dab in the middle of doing up here in Traverse City? You guessed it....we're finishing the basement!!! We're VERY excited to get this project underway, Dan's had the itch for quite some time and now that the funds are in the bank it's finally a go! Me-maw (aka Dan's mom) works for Lowes so we thought she'd enjoy these but also Makayla is just naturally a helper. To say she was excited to get a tool bag like daddy was an understatement.....she thought she was pretty darn cool!!! I keep snapping pics of Dan in action even though I must say he's not always real thrilled about it. I just keep telling him he'll be glad when he looks back on them and can say "look what I built". (guys really like to do that don't they?!?) =)
We finished painting the upstairs FINALLY....talk about another huge project marked off our to do list! We did it ourselves in stages and it actually wasn't too terribley painful. Probably the worse part was the last 2 walls because we'd been painting non-stop and were SO close to being done. That aside....we're happy campers!
In other news we've been trying out a new church and the jury's still out....but we have a good feeling about it. It's the church that hosts the bible study I've been going to so it's nice that we know a lot of people our age which was a big problem with our other church. Last Sunday he preached on following God's plan - not your own - and knowing when to stop and listen to the holy spirit so you follow the right path. In the end they had open contracts out for anyone who wanted them simply stating "I Will Follow..." then signing your name and dating. The idea being you follow Jesus no matter where He leads you. Just imagine all the great (or not so great) adventures you'll be able to fill the blank in!! His paths are always teaching us something, good or bad, always learning..... It was good stuff...
I think that's about it for now. We're heading down south for Dan's work Christmas party (yah I know...isn't Christmas way over?!?). They always plan it after the business of the holidays slows down which actually works out really well. It's always nice to catch up with everybody again.
Love you all, keep on blogging!

The Veldermans

This was our new years eve party there WAS an theme but my cousin kate and meghan were party poopers i was tinkerbell and megan sue was the princess and the pea haha Happy Late New Year!

I am So grown up!!

I finally did it!! Im not really sure what i have to report but i have been reading for a long time on everyones doings and i felt left out so this may not be interesting but thats ok :) I live a pretty simple life i work at Sananda Spa and salon in east kentwood i still live in the farm house with my cousins and my half sister megan sue. I have been dating the same man for a year and a half we met samon fishing hes just a peach, oh P.S yes he loves jesus ! Any way thats about it with out boring you with little detales thanks for listening Loves Andrea Joy

Isabelle Joy TerBeek

Hello To All! Kim here....I took these of Adam and Lindy's beautiful bundle when I stopped in on Saturday. Oh heavens is she just an adorable princess....no doubt her mommy and daddy were still on the "high" from her delivery. They said they could just sit and stare at her for hours and had no idea you could love someone that you just met that much!!! God is good! I'm sure they'll want to post all the details...I just thought I'd share these photos.
I'll post more about the Velderman happenings later - love you all!!!

angels

i have to tell this story, it's a good one.
jason and i were on the way home on suday night and were about and hour and a half from home on M-77 going north and i was going about 73 mph. and if you have ever driven on a stretch of road with no other cars, it's hard to drive 55 or even 60 (73 is slow for me). Well, i saw a car drive by and hit it's brakes, i've been pulled over to know that i might as well pull over now. sure enough, it was a state cop and i was trying to find my licence and for the life of me it was not in my purse anywhere, i dug and dug and pulled stuff out and looked again and it was NO WHERE!!! i did have my old licence with my maiden name (from 2 years ago) and he took that and went back to his car. now here is why i know he was an angel, i have never heard of a state cop not giving a ticket and not even comenting on the fact that i gave him the wrong licence. he just told me to slow down and watch for deer and drunk drivers.
about 15 minutes later on M-28 i was cruizing along at 60 and there she was, a HUGE doe, right in front of my car. I was able to stop in time and just grazed the deer. there are no scratches at all on my car at all. If I hadn't been pulled over I would have been going 80 or so and wouldn't have been able to stop in time. God knows that it takes a little bit for me to listen (like cops)
the other thing that happenedl, is that jason and i got into a HUGE argument that stemmed from me not ever know exactly where my licence is. we needed to have that argument, it was just one of those thing that has to happen in order for growth to happen in our marriage and for us to understand each other.
God has a great sense of humor because after unpacking and putting a few things away i went through everything i thought my licence could be in and finally i tried my purse, i went through all of my pocket and then pulled out my planner on my lap fell my licence. So funny...it was in there the whole time.
not bad for a trip home. i just have to share...God will use anyone and anything to let us know he is still there and he knows how to get our attention, so keep an eye out!!!

Barbara Grace

Hi Fam!! I have just spent the last hour, no kidding, reading up on all the "happenings"I LOVE this blog thing!! We have such a really awesome family. Happy New Year!! Won't it be great to see just what The Lord brings into our lives this year? No pictures from me yet as I have yet to learn how to do that but I WILL learn. Hey just as a side trip, does anyone know how to text message from a BlackBerry?Having a little trouble finding someone who can explain that to me. I can get/SEND EMAIL BUT CAN'T FIGURE OUT THE TEXT THING YET. sO IF YOU KNOW i'D LOVE TO HEAR. wELL BACK TO me. Guess I should look up more often:) I didn't feel like going back to re-type all that so have a laugh, yes I hit the caps lock and didn't know it. So I officially an off the job as of today, no real answer on the next move but I am Thanking the Lord for it, cause I know He knows He just hasn't told me yet. Thanks for all the loving words concerning my Representative days. I feel like I owe MANY of you a thanks. It was you all who helped get me to Lansing, Prayers, Door 2 door, stuffing envelopes, walking in Parades,DONATING, and so much more. Really thanks to each one who has helped. I was so honored to have had the job.
We spent New Years eve over at Brent/Brenda's with Dan/Kim we played games,ate, watched RV(which is a funny movie) and then we all stayed over night. Today of course was Happy Birthday to Kurt 28 and Derek 13.

Tomorrow I am going to be at the airport to be apart of the arrival ceremonies for President Ford's body. What a prevlidge to be able to be a part of history.

I really need to go but love to all .Barbara

IT'S A GIRL!

Good morning;
We have another new granddaughter! Adam & Lindy had Isabella Joy at 9:30 last night. She weighed 7#12 oz. and is 20 1/2 inches long. Everything went wonderful (as told from Adam to Doug); I might get a little different version when we go to visit (just kidding). Lindy says that she has the TerBeek nose and Adams chin. I'll take a picture this afternoon to verify. They're at Zeeland Hospital.

Jessica Joy Polavin got engaged on Christmas day to Gilbert Garcia, they plan on having the wedding in Sept. 2008 when Gil is finished with school. Lots of fun new things happening here in the Polavin family. Yeah!!!
here is our wonderful new little darling, that came into our lives on

December 26th at 9:25 a.m. and weighed 8lbs and was born to

Ben and Robin Polavin

Hello Family

Hello everyone!! Well greeting from Norfolk, Va.
Well I have been informed by my mother that everone has been interested in how I was doing and would like an update. So here it goes. I am currently in the security division onboard the Harry S. Truman and I actually like it better than I do my normal division. In my normal division I carry boxes do a lot of paperwork. The hours aren't too bad for security. I usually work 12-13 hours a day. Long days but I am on a 5 and 2 sechedule. So one week I work 5 days and then next week I work 2. We recently got done with our sea trials and I loved it. We ended up going about 150-200 miles out to sea going around in some circles and then coming back a couple of days later.
Well in the future of my boat/ship we will be out to sea getting qualified in everything to become a battle ready ship for the majority of 2007. I am looking foward to that very much. Not being gone for so long but being able to travel to places like Africa, Brazil, Italy and many others (hopefully).
I am coming home on leave from the 30th through the 7th. Honestly it will be a big relief to be home and see family again. There is nothing like your loving support and encouragement.
That is all for now if anyone has any questions feel free to email me at scottld@truman.navy.mil , keep in mind there are some questions that I may not be able to answer ie. when we are going out to sea again. I love you all and can't wait to be home to see you all again.
Levi

Fearfully and wonderfully made

How amazing is that experince, I know so many of you have had this experience, what a miracle. We had Avary Ann on Dec 26th by C-section, she was 8 lbs on the money, she was 20.5 inches long. She is beautiful, beyond words. Our precious baby girl, we already love her so much.

~Feliz Navidad~

This is Paula and Tashina saying Merry Christmas from Honduras...we celebrated a little early (we all know Paula is SO impatient ;)) no, but really...we have plans to spend Christmas Eve and Day with Tashina's pastor's family...and Paula got Tash a sweet red purse to use for Christmas anyway :). Here are a few pictures of a "Honduran Christmas" for you! We love you all and miss you so much! Be blessed this Christmas with whomever you are spending the day with! Mom and Dad...we'll call, and we love you! Here are some pics of us sharing our Christmas! Feliz Navidad!

Tash and Paula

Just saying hello and Merry Christmas

Dear family,

Merry Christmas from California. I've been here for 7 months, and I've seen a lot, learned a lot, grown a lot--guess that's life. I have vacation for 11 days, and I was going to go to Colorado to ski and be with my friends and people I consider family in that region, but circumstances are such with my current job that I felt it better to stay in the area and look for my next opportunity. I gave my company an opportunity to keep me, but they could not offer a raise without having to offer raises across the board, which would be healthy for the organization--turn over is 100% every year. So, I let them know I would stay with them until they could find a replacement. They have found her and as of the turn of the year she will be coming in to work with me for a few weeks. This is a good move for all involved. I am not afraid, but excited. Many things can transition in a few weeks. I'm looking forward to something new, better pay, and the opportunity to perhaps learn something new.

California, as I look back on 2006, has been good for me in many ways. I've been in MI, CO, and CA this year. This is the longest I've been in one area for almost three years now. I'm very, very happy to stabilize. I feel my heart constrict, expand, weep and settle--shaking off old things to come into something richer, the hues of these colors are not as vibrant as the primary colors of the adventures of the past three years, but they are deep and good and fulfilling.

I have loved someone deeply and lost him, and that has taken a toll on my heart. But he was wise in his decision to move forward, given our differences in perspective. Roree is an exceptional person. I am more...for having known him. I have found a good church and a good Bible study. I am slowly making friends that will mean something to me for a lifetime, not just acquaintences that are here today and gone tomorrow. I love San Diego for the most part. There are some people and some places in this metropolitian area that are so cold and heartless, and I found myself floundering in the culture. But then the Lord kindly directed me to some different areas of the city, different pockets of culture, families and churches and organizations that care. It blessed me and encouraged my heart. I feel like this is where I'm supposed to be, but finding my way in this city is and has been tough. There are a lot of transient folks that come in and out, and when you live that way...as I have for a long while...it creates this cultivated detachement that makes people cold sometimes, unable to be transparent and open and invest in others. I've had to really step back from myself a few times and ask Christ to keep my heart soft.

I find that's where I am these days...hopeful, prayerful, watchful--that my heart would stay open, soft and feminine. Pray for me in the next few weeks please, as I would truly, truly appreciate a gentle shift into something better vocationally. I need the Lord's guidence and ability to open doors for me. I would really like to be married as well, so if you would pray for me this year to meet a good man, a godly man, an attractive man who finds me beautiful and I find him the same in return, a man who loves me and loves this deep heart I've been given... I would really appreciate the combined efforts of my people. I know you pray. I'd like to have children. I'd like to grow old with someone. I'd like to have a home. I'd like to have something normal and good even if it is hard. I pray for something ordinary and magical. God can do that.

I love all of you. I know I don't post things often, but that doesn't mean I don't think of all of you. I do, and I'm grateful to be from such a great family. If any of the cousin's reading this have a myspace account visit me, join my friends list: www.myspace.com/js7887.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Jenny

My First Go At This New Technology

Hello all,
This is Lindy TerBeek speaking, and forgive me if this does not go so well for me, it is my first time ever "blogging " before. I never quite understood what it all meant but I seem to be getting the hang of it. It was fun logging on and hearing from everyone and seeing pictures from those of you in other places. It gives me a warm fuzzy to hear whats going on in other peoples lives.(sigh,smile)
So I just wanted to update you all a little on the life of Adam and myself. If you haven't heard, which I am sure most of you have, in September we sold our little house in Wyoming (with much relief) and picked up and moved out to the beloved country back to our roots. (AHHHHH) fresh country air (cow manure and corn) I love it. I had to laugh because not long after we moved to the country Adam called me at work one night and said he had all the windows open in the house for "fresh air"...the farm down the street was spreading manure in the fields across the street. I know what your thinking, that is not fresh...well, coming from car exhaust fumes and city smells it is actually quite refreshing. We moved to a house on one acre our in Beaverdam, which for those of you that are not familiar with the area it is located directly between Hudsonville and Zeeland just off Chicago drive a little jaunt. Beaverdam consists of a fire barn, a church a somewhat well known ice cream parlor.
We are loving it there, us and our adopted "wild cat" we seem to have inherited from the former owners. I say "wild" because the people we purchased the house from said they weren't taking it with them because it was "wild" well, if you call wild laying in the middle of our living room floor the day we moved in because it walked in the open door and made itself at home and the fact that the thing is rubbing so hard on your legs the minute you step out the front door, then yes, perhaps it is wild. She's a good mouser though, so I have given her the name "DeCon".
On other fronts most of you probably know that I am very much with child right now. My official due date is Dec. 30, however, becacause of some insurance issues with my job if I do not have this baby by Dec.28 I am going to be induced before the year is out. I am hoping to go naturally so if I could ask fr all you prayer warriors to go into action and pray I go naturally before that, that would be greatly appreciated. I had a wonderful pregnancy, after a long and rocky start trying to get there, but alas we did get pregnant and after the few months (women are right, you do forget the horrible parts) of all day long nausea and vomiting..I can't complain, I have felt great! We don't know what we are having as the little tyke is quite a modest sort and would not uncross their legs for our ultrasound so we are up for a surprise! We will let you all know whats up asap.
Adam is doing great. Being a wonderful husband and trying to help out as much as his busy schedule allows. He is so excited to be a daddy although, for some reason the baby likes to kick him very hard everytime he trys to rub my belly. I think this kid is going to be very active like his/her daddy. I tell adam sometimes I envision the baby in there riding the placenta and using the umbilical cord as a lasso like its bull riding, because thats how wild it gets sometimes.
Well, I suppose I better run...I hope this finds you all well. Have a very blessed Christmas, thanks for listen'in.
Lindy

HAPPY 27TH BIRTHDAY

JASON SHRONTZ!!!

You'll laugh your guts out!

Hey you guys!

You gotta see this... http://xmas.daileyads.com/

It is so funny! (click on the link or copy and paste it into your browser/address line) :) That was for grampa and grandma and all you OLD people out there....especially Gramps though because...we all know he's a big faker! :)

Love to all. O.G.I.G.
Happy Christmas and Merry New Year!

Jenny

thankful

Last week an officer was shot and killed here in Colorado Springs. He worked for the city and so it wasn't directly with the guys I work with, however it did affect me. This officer was an DUI officer so when a traffic cop pulls over someone who is drunk they specifically dispatch a DUI cop out to the scene. In this specific circumstance Ken Jordan got to the scene and approached the car. I will not put in the details here. The other two officers that were on the scene shot and did not kill the suspect, however Ken Jordan died that night. Prior to this year the Colorado Springs Police Department has not had an officer die in 20 years, but we lost two guys this year.

So I got the privledge of riding in a 200 car processional on the day of the funeral service for Ken Jordan. What an amazing experience to see everyone who serves in our line of duty all come out to support this tragic event. On the way there we rode on the highway which was completely shut down so all you could see were lights on top of cars from as far as you could see in front and behind you. At the service it was amazing to see over 900 people there supporting our city and Ken Jordan and his family. At the service one of our guys came in playing the bagpipes and sending chills up and down my body. At the end of the service the military presented Ken Jordan's mother with the flag, and there is something about that moment that just gripped my heart. Sitting there watching her as she held the flag so cloesly to her chest, wishing more than anything that what she could be holding was her son. It brought tears and grief to my soul.

On the way back in the processional it was amazing. This time the highway was once again shut down, however this time each side was lined with thousands of people. Everyone from little kids waving at us, mothers crying, and retired veterans saluting us. People holding signs thanking us for our service and all the dedication we have to serve our communities day in and day out, making the a safer place to be. It brought so many emotions to my heart and spirit as we traveled among the on lookers who were just watching.

I thought to myself this is why I do what I do. This is the reason that I go out to crime scenes and serve people who are at their worst and just listen and support them. This is why I do things that I sometimes do not want to do, because God has called me to serve, love, and protect those who need help. It made me proud to be an American. It made me proud to see our community members coming out and supporting the service men and women who sacrifice their lives everyday and maybe say goodbye to husbands, wives and children and those they love every morning.

Now I do not know how to feel about the war, but today I want you to say a prayer for all those soldiers who are over seas and away from families this Christmas and over the holidays. I know that even I get lonely being on the other side of the country from my family and all those I love; and I can't imagine having to be over seas away from children and family and in their circumstances. So take a break from whatever you are doing and say a prayer for them. They sacrifice everything that we may have a safe place to come home to at night.

All this to say, today I am thankful for my freedom, my family, my car, a warm house to sleep in, all those who love me and my life. I am thankful.

Katie

Thanks to Representative VanderVeen

Dear Barbara Grace,
I wanted to post an official thank-you for your years of faithful service to God, our country, State and our family. Thank-you for giving your whole heart and soul for these past years. We appreciate the sacrifice you made on our behalf. You have served nobley and we wish to honor you for your service. You will not be forgotton. We look forward to the transition that will be occuring soon for you. You are a mighty woman of God. I am proud to call you my sister and friend. I admire and love you deeply. Donna

The world we live in

Hey Folks,
I know that we all live in this world and we have a heritage of love and joy and Christ in our lives and in this family. In my job and in all of yours as well I am sure that you witness on a daily basis the Sin that runs wild in our world. As we speak here and share I believe that we are speaking of the kingdom coming, as in heaven here on earth. What I am speaking of is we as disciples of Christ know that our future is sound, and the blessing that is, yet I love that fact that we remember that our passion is to bring pieces of God's kingdom here to earth. Grandpa you asked me to share what Summit meant to me, I have struggled with that question, I don't know why, maybe it is because I was more interested in the mountains, caves and cliffs around than I was in the classroom and lectures. But I think that I just realized recently that growing up I knew that Jesus was in my heart, as in the emotions I felt I conected to him, but there was a disconnect between that and my thoughts, my ideas and sometimes my actions. Summit was the beginning, or another stop in a long journey to understand that my relationship with Jesus was not something I could compartmentalize.
I sat in church this morning and our pastor talked of God touching Mary's womb and Jesus growing inside of her. You, whom have been pregnant can understand this much better than I, but as I have watched Robin's world revolve around this pregnancy, how it effects everything, it made sense that my life needs to revolve around God. I spend most days living in this word where, like the men of old and ptolemy's theory of the universe revolving around earth, everyone's first thought is 'me', how do we continue to unlearn these habits and messages that are being thrown at us. Now I have known this message but it continues to sink in. I am mentoring a couple of guys right now, and one of them recently asked me how I make desecions. I thought of the quick answer, the sunday school answer, but I heard a small voice whispering in my head telling me to really comtemplate this and answer as honest as I could. I told him the truth, which is there are many different ways and factors that I include when I make a desecion, then I told him I know a man who makes choices in God's will, who has made choices the world might have thought foolish, or maybe even his family at times(I am not aware of them, maybe someone from between our generations Grandpa), I told him that I aspired to live my life like that, and if he wanted to know how to make decesions, this is how he should make them.
This is getting long but I started writting this to tell you all about something I have heard about it is called postsecret, a guy sent out a ton of postcards and asked people to write their secrets on them and send them back to him. He is posting them on the web, the site is called postsecret.blogspt.com, I have been so touched by the pain and the hurt that haunts our world and my hope and prayer is that for us who have been given much, much is (I know the word here is expected but I am changing it.) desired. I have seen the effect a smile can have on a soul, much less a listening ear and caring embrace. We are just clay pots and the message is what we know and carry inside but let's paint our pots and smile at the folks around us, and as we make decesions based on our Father and his Word, our actions will continue to set us apart and God will give us oppurtunities to love those around us to Him.
"He came to that which was his own but his own did not receive him. Yet to those who did he gave the right to become children of God,"
In Christ,
Ben

Pictures

So, I guess I did something wrong with the pics....let's try this again :). Under the cows is a picture of Lago Yohoa, one of the only lakes in Honduras...it's about 3-4hrs outside of Tegus, where I live. The next pic is of a restaurant in Copan we ate breakfast at...I loved the colors! And the last photo is a glimpse of the Mayan ruins we saw in Copan...enjoy! Love you!
Tash

Driving update

Thankyou to all who prayed over Thanksgiving for my driving adventure...it was an adventure :P! I had so much fun...and would do it all over again. Tracy came in on Nov. 20 and after school I picked up the car and they showed me all of the things I would need to know...including where the deactivating button for the alarm was :) (I would really need to know this later- hee hee) So I picked Tracy up from the airport and as we are driving away the alarm begins to beep telling you have a few seconds to push the deactivating button. WELL, I can't find the button...a few seconds go by...then a minute...and I'm starting to panic a bit because if I can't find this button the car will automatically shut down. I finally pull off to the side of the road (a busy road) to better concentrate...and just as I pull off the car shuts down (this is all within an hour of having the car :)) and the alarm starts going off full force. We're talking crazy loud sirens, beeps, and flashing lights. And I still can't find the button to deactivate it. I get on my cell phone and call the rental place and we shout at each other over the noise of the car to figure out how to turn the alarm off. Still nothing is working. They graciously tell me to wait (as if I was going to go somewhere...:)) and they would come over to where I'm at (at least a half hour drive). SO...no kidding, Tracy and I sit in this beeping, flashing car on the side of a busy Honduran highway for AT LEAST a half hour...all the while I'm pushing buttons from every angle...trying to figure this out. Finally, very randomly I push two different buttons at the same time and the alarm turns off. I quickly call the rental place to tell the guy to go back...and we drive home incident free. BUT...oh how funny, Tracy's first few minutes in Honduras are spent prisoned in a car with the alarm stuck on. Very memorable.

Then....the next day we head out for Copan...a tiny city very close to the Guatemalan border where some of the best Mayan ruins are at. I do get a little lost about half way there...but that all worked out no problem. We spend 2 days at the ruins, which was very interesting and enjoyable (although cold...we were in fleeces/hats/and wool socks :)) Then comes the drive home...It is a beautiful drive...although mostly through moutains...so I'm going up and down and passing on blind curves- doing everything very safely of course...;)...anyway, we get to one of the only straightaways...and remember, I'm not going very fast 60ish...and I see something dart out in front of me towards the left. I swerve and just hit a stray dog on the right hand side of the car. Oh, how awful I felt. Now, please understand this was a stray dog...and there are dogs all over the place here...so it wasn't someone's best friend....but STILL I felt horrible. AND THEN...when we stopped I had cracked the front bumper slightly, which of course I had to pay extra for...BUT, we got home safely and we definitely made some memories in the process :). So those were some of my adventures while driving in Honduras :).

The rest of the time we spent around Tegus doing some short day trips (using public transportation :)) It was so wonderful to have someone from home here...it's just so nice to share my world that I love so much.

School is going very well, I can't wait for Christmas Break, as I'm sure all my students feel the same way :). I'm done on Dec. 15 and I don't have to go back until Jan. 8...AND Paula flies in on Dec. 18- I'm not sure what we'll do, perhaps travel, perhaps hang around here...but either way, I can't to see her! AND...Leah just emailed and said she's going to fly down in Jan for a week and a half...YAY...both of my sisters in Honduras with me...I can't wait! (Mom and Dad...you better be next ;)) There's nothing like sisters!

I do have another prayer request before I end this novel of a post :)...I am praying about whether to stay in Honduras another year, or to pursue something else in the States. Over Christmas I hope to take some significant time and pray and fast about my decision, but I would really appreciate/need your prayers as well. As of right now I want to stay...but not necessarily at the school I'm at (International School or IST). There are some circumstances and situations that I want to separate myself from at the school, but I would still love to stay in Honduras. I love teaching, and teaching here, I love the country, language, and people...I'm just not sure about where God wants me next year. I have been getting more and more involved at my church- and I feel like I'm growing spiritually here, I have wonderful friends etc. SO...other than my amazing family back home, I don't have a lot drawing me back, in fact I feel as if I have more keeping me here. AND THEN....let's throw the monkey wrench of money into the situation...I do have school loans that are coming up, so I really need to be making more money than I am now...but I would hate to have money be the sole reason I come back (although a very legit reason). Yet, I want to be wise as well about my decision. So...I say all that to sort of explain the position I'm in and to ask for you to pray for me to have wisdom and guidance. More than anything else I want to obey God, and I know He'll provide for my needs...but I still just want to know I'm listening and hearing His voice....and then obeying. Thankyou, thankyou, thankyou!

I love you all, and hopefully these pictures from vacation will post too! The cow picture is when we had to completely stop to allow a herd of cows to pass around us...I felt like I was parting the Red Sea....except instead of water we were surrounded by cattle. Gotta love Honduras :).
Tash!

P.S. Grandma...your package was amazing! I shared some M&M's with my 9th graders...they love you :)! I told them it was my first Christmas present :)- Thankyou!

Thanks Katie!

I just asked for addresses of far away family. Katie had such a great idea and I wanted to ask anyone who does live far away to post a picture of yourself. (If possible!) What an awesome idea. I have learned in my study that long term memory is obtained through an emotional connection. What better way to "emotionally" connect with geography than seeing a picture of family living far away. If anyone can do this, it would be such a blessing! Thanks Katie!

Greetings from the Vander Veens...

I am sending a request out to the non-Michigan members of the family. I want to get a list with addresses of all the family members who are far away. We are doing a lot of geography with Tori in school right now. So I thought I would show her on the map where all you guys are. I know some of them... especially the ones who blog. But I know that I do not know everyone. So if anyone could help that would be great! Have a blessed day!

Hi from Nick and Barb

Hi everybody, Nick here
We just got back on Mondaay night from visiting Brad's family in Tennessee. We had a great time and always we realize how much we miss them. We left on Thursday at 7PM because Barb had Session and didn't get home until 6:30. We wanted to get out and on the road before the snow fell so we traveled all night and got in Clarksville at 5:30 AM. It rained hard and was very windy all night. Needless to say it was not a pleasant trip. But seeing the kids made it all worthwhile. Saturday we all went to Nashville to the Opryland Mall and did some Christmas shopping and had some dinner at the Opryland Hotel. On Sunday we went to their church which is so much a blessing for them and for us too. Mariah and Hailee now play the guitar and violin respectively and played at a Historic Mansion overlooking the river. Every room had it's own Christmas tree and there was food and music and dancing ( 2 step - Tennessee style ). It was lots of fun and we were so proud of our grandkids. Derek is still very involved in Tae Quan Do and he makes it look easy. I don't know why but my leg can't even come close to the way his leg can kick. Derek is growing like a weed. He now stands at 5'3" or very close to it. He does a considerable good job of arm wrestling his grampa's bad arm which is getting to be pretty good. Brad is nearly done with his current job as his replacement will be taking over after the holidays. He will work until the end of March and then apply his 90 leave days he has accumulated. He will be discharged by the end of June. I just realized that maybe Brad should be telling you all this but I guess he will write you himself with updates. The weather was cold but sunny and now we are home in the gloom and snow again. Barb still needs your prayers as she has no job after December is over. God's timing is always perfect but it rarely coincides with mine so I tend to get a bit nervous at times. Great to here all the news around the world from the family. Blessings to all, Nick

Out in the sticks with the Sticks! : )

This is Tina Stickney here, I don 't have much time but wanted you all to see some recent photos.

Ava got in the dryer herself, put the underware on her head herself...got into the turny cabinet herself...: ) She is such a ham!!!! Cory wasn't joking when he said she is the other comedian in the family!

Here is Cory with his 2nd 7 point buck this season and a photo of the three of us this past October! We just need three more kids..a couple horses... some chickens and you can't forget the cows - then the picture will look more complete! : ) heheheheee...

I can't wait until I have more time to blog..because God is doing some incredible things! But I'll have to tell you later!

Love you all! Teeners!

news from luke....

Hey everyone! This is Luke, Grandpa yelled at me for not posting before, so I thought I would comply... ;) Well, I am 18 and a senior at Allendale High Schoool. I am almost done, I graduate May 31, 2007, only 176 more days!!! (Yes, I'm counting haha ) The last grandchild to graduate! Hard to imagine, lol. Here is one of my senior pics. I will keep everyone posted on when my open house is!

I have been accepted to GVSU for next fall, and will hopefully be getting a double major in Criminal Justice and Political Science, and a minor in Spanish. I want to be an FBI Agent, but will first probably become a police officer for a few years before I apply to the Academy at Quantico, VA. I currently am taking two classes at GVSU for Dual Enrollment: Ethics 102 and Biology 105. Both are pretty good, and I am passing both of them ; )

This is the last year I will be in Science Olympiad (obviously) and after last years 6th place finish at State and Class B State Champions (We were the best Class B school in the whole state of MI) we are aiming for top 3 at State this year. I am in:
Remote Sensing-- analyzing satellite photography and maps and interpreting them and their causes/effects
Food Science-- studying foods and their properties: lipids, carbs, protein, etc. and molecular compunds/ amino acids, a bit of chemistry....not my fav : ) lol
Scrambler-- building a vehicle/device that will travel a certain distance while carrying an egg and get the closest to that distance w/o breaking the egg. Whoever gets the closest and is the straightest, w/o breaking the egg wins.

I recently got a new job at Bono's Pit BBQ in Allendale, I am the dishwasher boy and do a little prep cooking too. Meeting some new friends there and having a little fun! ; )

I am going to Res in GH and having a lot of fun there. I have some AWESOME friends there, and I am a leader in the Youth Group.

I am spending most of my time working, hanging out with friends, youth, and SLEEPING! : )

Well, love you all and talk to ya'll soon!
-Luke

Snow & Christmas Cookies...Nothin Better!

Hello Again! After Aunt Renee's post I thought I'd send you a picture of the snow. That was taken yesterday....we've gotten quite a bit more since then already. Although I spent some time this morning shoveling off the deck..that's always quite a chore when the snow is that deep! The whole time I'm shoveling I'm thinking "Great! I'm just making it easier for the squirrels to get at the bird food!" For those of you I haven't complained to yet....we've got a SERIOUS bunch of squirrels that are bound and determined to eat all our bird food. Can't tell ya the last time I've seen a bird but my heavens we can't keep the squirrels away. I keep saying the bird feeder is my squirrel feeder and quite honestly I told Dan I've given up on trying to scare them off. It was a full-time job standing at the slider door scaring them away. (not kidding!!) Dan's going to get me a little pellet gun to pick 'em off with - not killing them hopefully just scaring them enough that they won't come back. I have my doubts if it'll work...they've gotten so brave that now I've even had "stare offs" literally face to face with them before they finally give up and scurry away.
YIKES....apparently I'm a little bitter about the squirrels 'eh?!? =) Anyhow Aunt Ruth and Uncle Jon came to visit this past weekend. What a nice time we had visiting and eating! =) Hopefully they'll come again in the spring and then the boys can get some fishing in while us girls hit the outdoors! Love, love love my family.....it's fun getting time with everyone as they come visit!!
Last night we decorated Christmas cookies - Makayla got through about 2 before she decided eating was the better way to go instead of decorating! So cute though and Dan humored me as I like to do "christmas things" this time of year.
Had my first experience snow blowing the driveway last night. Bless his heart....Dan so graciously stood by and watched even though I KNOW it was killing him cuzz I wasn't doing it just right!! He was a trooper though and smart, it's defintely to his advantage to let me learn the new snow-blower so when he gets home at night it'll be all done! =) It only got a little crazy once as I forgot which handle does what and got a little too close to Dan's truck (which, by the way, was parked INSIDE the garage!). That incident got a little dirty look but HEY - I finally got 'er figured out I think!
Love you all - enjoy this time of year. So much to be thankful for...

Kim

Happy Birthday Andrea and other family news!

Happy Snowy Day! We have had a nice day celebrating Andrea Joy's 21st Birthday (it is officially on Monday) and hiking back to cut down a Christmas tree. It certainly was perfect tree-getting weather! We missed you Stacey, Jason, Grandpa & Grandma TerBeek and Meghan.

On Friday David, Renee and Ross were up in Traverse City for orientation for Ross who will be moving around January 13 to attend school at Northwestern Michigan College where he will get his pilot's license. Sorry Kimberly . . . .we had all the intentions in the world of calling you when we were up there, but as you know, hokey pete, it was quite the blizzard and we headed home as soon as we were done. I'm not sure this picture does it justice but just ask Kim, it was quite the day!

Have a good week. aunt renee

just checkin' in...

When I shut Jesus out of my consciousness by looking the other way, the icy finger of agnosticism touches my heart. My agnosticism does not consist in the denial of a personal God; it is unbelief growing like lichen from my inattention to the sacred prsence. The way I spend my time and money and the way I interact with others routinely testifies to the degree of my awareness or unawareness.

With the passing of years I am growing more convinced that the discipline of awareness of the present risenness of Jesus is intimately linked to the recovery of passion.

Lord Jesus, Teach me to weigh and measure the things I allow in my life, keeping only those that have eternal value. Amen.

B. Manning

Thoughts from the westside... Love, Jenny