~Living Life To The FULL!~

The Girl's First Texas Snow Day!

2011-02-05T11:27:00.002-06:00

Yesterday the girls awakened to no school and snow! It wasn't much snow but it was enough to bring joy to their hearts. They were praying so hard for some snow and God answered their prayers.

This will go down as a very memorable moment in the girls lives!

We went to visit...

2010-11-23T17:19:00.002-06:00

Santa this morning!

Awana Car Race

2010-11-22T16:48:00.002-06:00

Was this weekend. David spent days and hours working on the cars. The white car is Emily's, the red car is Amy's and mine is the blue.

Emily took 1st place in design and 2nd in speed within her age group.

I took 1st in speed and 1st in design within the leaders.

Amy took 2nd in speed within her age group and she took 1st place over all. Amy's car was the grand winner!!!

I am so thankful to have such a talented husband!!!

Amy was...

2010-11-22T16:35:00.002-06:00

Blessed Mother Teresa for All Saint's Day.

Visit with Sparkles?

2010-06-20T14:52:00.002-05:00

I don't think Woody will want to stay at our home anytime soon (or ever I should say).

This is what happens when Woody gets left out in the tree house, he ends up on the drive way looking like this. Poor Woody he didn't have a chance with Sparkles wanting to play, to bad Sparkles isn't more like Buster.

Emily's Swim Meet

2010-06-15T15:58:00.007-05:00

Ok, so I got a new camera and I love it!!! I got some great pictures of Emily at last nights swim meet.

Here she is doing freestyle.

Here she is doing backstroke.

And here she is doing the breaststroke for the very first time!!! She did great!!!

Piano Recitals

2010-05-29T15:53:00.005-05:00

Amy preformed "Twinkle Twinkle."

Emily preformed "Rainbows are beautiful."

Amy at Swim Practice

2010-05-29T15:49:00.001-05:00

Emily's Living Museum Project

2010-05-29T15:39:00.002-05:00

Emily was Pocahontas for her Living Museum Project. Each child in her class picked a famous person that they had to research and come dressed as their famous person to school. They memorized a few facts about their famous person and when you touched their button they came to life and said their speech. Emily did a wonderful job! Believe it or not David cut and sewed the costume. He did a great job!!! Emily had fun researching Pocahontas and learned so much.

Emily's Swim Meet

2010-05-29T15:19:00.004-05:00

Emily's retainer

2010-04-21T08:26:00.001-05:00

Amy's Barbie Fiesta Float

2010-04-21T08:18:00.003-05:00

The Fingerprints of God

2010-04-06T08:02:00.011-05:00

Where do I begin? I want to praise God that His fingerprints are all over my life.

I have been having mammograms ever since I stopped nursing Amy. Cancer in big on both sides of my family. It has taken the lives of my loved ones and thank God others are survivors.

Because I am at high risk I have been faithfully getting mammograms every year. For the last two years there has been an area that had become questionable. I went last November for my yearly mammogram only to be called back in December to have more views and a sonogram done. This mammogram was categorized as a 3. Because it was now a category 3, I was to follow up in 6 months (May) for another mammogram.

A few weeks ago I felt a lump in my breast. It felt like a tiny bead from a bean bag. I called my doctor and she scheduled a mammogram for me. At this time I didn't know what to think but as much as I am a worry wart, I can honestly say that I felt the peace of God. I went in had a mammogram and sonogram done which that morning I could no longer find the beady lump (I believe the lump that I could no longer find was a way of God telling me to get in before May). I left after the mammogram and sonogram and 2 hours later I get a call from my doctor giving me the name of a general surgeon. It was about 2:55 pm that day and I immediately called the first doctors name she gave me. The doctor had a cancellation at 3:45 pm, now this is a God thing.

David and I went to talk with the general surgeon and he was so positive and informative. I had two choices; a lumpectomy or a core needle biopsy. I chose the core needle biopsy.

The next week I got in. I arrived at the STRIC Imaging Center ready to go. That morning the machine was not working and the repair man was on his way. I was asked if I would like to reschedule but I said no I am here and I will wait. While I was waiting I was able to talk with two women. One of the women was a 38 year old mom (same as me) she had never had a mammogram and I can't remember why she did but it came back questionable and that is why she was there (she was scared). The other woman was 59 years old and was told the words that most of fear to hear - Cancer. She was there to get a wire put in her breast in the spot to be taken out for surgery so that the surgeon knew what area to take out the tissue. She was scared. We all told our stories and all talked about God. I told the two women that it was strange for me as I tend to be a worry wart but I was at peace with either not having cancer or having cancer. I think I was at peace because of how everything was playing out and how I could see God's fingerprints everywhere.

So I had the biopsy done and waited a few days where I got the call from my general surgeon. He has been doing this for over 20 years and he was honest with me and told me that when I came in to see him; with my family history and the pictures he saw that it looked like cancer to him. But he was excited to tell me that the report came back that I didn't have cancer. I praise God for He is in control of my life and my destiny and I thank Him that I do not have cancer!

Please say a prayer for the two moms I talked with at the Imaging Center.

Emily's fitting...for a retainer

2010-04-05T19:09:00.001-05:00

Today Emily got fit for her retainer which she will get next Tuesday. She is very excited and picked out the color "luminous pink with purple speckles."

Happy Birthday Amy!!!!!!

2010-03-24T09:42:00.007-05:00

My little princess turned 6 yesterday!

Amy enjoyed our little celebration yesterday where she got some medical outfits for her American girl dolls. She got the "feel better kit" last week and so we got her some scrubs, nurse, hospital gown and doctor outfits to go with it! Happy Birthday little one.

This "feel better kit" is so much fun!

I still can't believe she is 6 years old.

Spring Break at American Girl Store

2010-03-22T13:54:00.013-05:00

We had a wonderful Spring Break. We decided to take the girls to the American Girl Store to celebrate Emily (early birthday) and Amy's Birthday's!

The girls had their very first American Girl Doll's hair done at the Salon. Make sure you look at Amy's doll hair closely.

Look at the miracles that can be done at the American Girl Salon.

Amy's doll is on the bottom shelf.

We ate at the American Girl Bistro Restaurant and had Birthday cake and ice cream.

Happy Birthday Girl's!

The girls love playing with their new dolls. Amy picked out Lanie and Emily picked out Julie.
It was a dream come true for Emily and Amy!

Emily's First Reconciliation

2010-02-04T13:34:00.007-06:00

Emily's First Reconciliation took place on January 23rd. When she was done she said she felt so much more peace within her.

Bye 2009 and Hello 2010

2009-12-31T10:26:00.006-06:00

I just have to say that God has really Blessed the Osborn Family tremendously this year!

We are so grateful and thankful to our Lord and Savior for all He has given, shown and is still teaching us! We have seen miracles, learned hard lessons, seen His blessings on our family and others, our eyes were opened to His tender mercies, experienced His gentleness, love, peace and joy!

Give thanks to the LORD,

for he is good;

his love endures forever.

Psalm 107:1

2009 was wonderful and we are extremely excited to see what God has in store for the Osborn's in 2010!

May God continue to Bless America!!!

WE Welcome CHANGE IN 2010!!!

Happy New Year!

Amy loses her first tooth

2009-12-27T18:04:00.010-06:00

Ok, lets start off by saying that about two weeks ago Amy noticed her tooth was lose. She has been so excited about losing her first tooth.

Well, today as she was eating lunch she felt something weird and ran to bathroom to look in the mirror. Well to her horror she saw blood and started freaking out screaming "I am bleeding, I am bleeding" while no one else in the house had a clue as to what was happening.

So we all run over there in panic trying to figure out what is going on. Well, her tooth was hanging by a thread and Amy is still freaking out (because of the site of blood).

David tried to get it (the tooth) with his big sausage fingers and it didn't work. So I am trying to calm her down and at the same time trying to get ready to go into her mouth to get the tooth. So all of a sudden we see David standing there with tweezers in hand and a big smile on his face. So you guessed right she freaked out even more.

I wanted to laugh so hard because I can just picture being in Amy's place looking up at her Dad with this tool in his hand coming toward her to go into her mouth to perform some major surgery. Well it took a second and I reassured her that Daddy wasn't going to get her tooth that I would gently do it and this I did. Pour Amy what traumatic first experience.

Merry CHRISTmas!

2009-12-24T08:39:00.004-06:00

My house has smelt soooo good over the last few days. It totally reminds me of my Beloved Grandmother. From baking of cookies and Jesus birthday cake to Grandma's homemade stuffing I feel as though I am in HEAVEN!

I just want to wish everyone a Blessed CHRISTmas! I thank God for sending his one and only son to earth to take away the sins of the world.

"For to us a child is born,

to us a son is given,

and the government will be on his shoulders.

And he will be called

Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

Isaiah 9:6

Merry CHRISTmas!!!

What have we been up to?

2009-12-17T16:17:00.017-06:00

Look at my angels smile!

Emily and Amy had their first Piano Recital's at the beginning of December and they both did so wonderful!

Emily's Brownie troop got together to make cookies for the wounded soldiers, Amy came to help too. An added bonus was when they had a surprise visit from Mr. and Mrs. Clause.

Emily and Amy also went Caroling at a nursing home last weekend.

Here are the snowman pretzels I made for Amy's Daisy meeting this week.

The girls are having fun and are so excited about their Christmas Parties tomorrow at school and starting Christmas Vacation!

Santa Visit

2009-11-28T16:37:00.002-06:00

Look who we went to visit, yes dear old Santa Clause!

Halloween

2009-11-01T08:45:00.002-06:00

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-26T07:44:00.003-05:00

Emily's Dinosaur Diorama Project

2009-10-16T07:52:00.010-05:00

The Alamosaurus

SA Tea Party Express

2009-09-03T18:05:00.014-05:00

Well, my friend Carla and I headed down town to participate in the Tea Party Express. The energy, excitement and unity was unbelievable. There were 100's of people at the Alamo in the almost 100 degree heat. It was worth every drop of sweat.

I believe the pictures say it all!

The girls are back in school...

2009-08-29T14:29:00.006-05:00

Well, it has been a long while since I have posted to my blog. I can't believe summer is over and we are already going into our 3rd week of school. We almost got our routine down.

Amy is in Kinder this year and is enjoying it so much. I am so happy that she is adjusting well to the longer days. Emily is in 2nd this year and is enjoying herself as well. Both of the girls LOVE their teachers. I really can't complain.

Here are the girls the first day of school.

Since I will have more time I will be able to blog more often. I miss my blog friends and am glad to be back.

Happy "2" year Blogoversary

2009-07-22T20:29:00.003-05:00

Today is my "2" year Blogoversary!!!
I can't believe how fast another year has come and gone. I really can't get over that I have been blogging for two years, Wow.

We have been truly blessed here in the Osborn home and thank God daily for our blessings. I can't wait to see what God has in-store for the Osborn's this next blog year. Stay tuned to find out!

Swim Team Awards

2009-07-02T18:07:00.008-05:00

Can I just tell you (once again) how proud I am of my girls.

We started swim team on May 11th. Neither of my girls could swim, not even a little, well maybe Emily could dogie paddle, but not really.

Emily went from the first meet ~ holding on to the the lane lines about 4 times in between her swimming the heat, to not holding the lane lines by her last meet. She also got to participate in competition which was amazing to us because she didn't know how to swim when she started. Emily got a trophy for the "most improved."

Amy, was like a Koala bear holding on to the tree trunk and not letting go (she held on to the coaches neck tightly and wouldn't let go) to holding on to the coaches hand to swim. This is why you see a small Koala statue in Amy's hand. She would not even put her head in the water and now she does. She has come a long way and enjoying every minute of it.

Swim team is over but the love of swimming is not. I think we have found someones new passion.

Emily's 7th Birthday

2009-07-02T17:54:00.007-05:00

Well, my Princess turned "7" this past Tuesday. I still can't believe it, I think I am in denial, LOL. Anyways, our celebration started at the Olive Garden. As you can see Emily LOVES noodles.

We arrived home from Emily's birthday dinner to see this beautiful scene from our backyard.

We then got to the good part where we sing "Happy Birthday" have cake and open presents!

Happy Birthday my Princess!

Did you say Emily can sew???

2009-06-28T20:53:00.002-05:00

Emily did a sewing camp last week. She enjoyed it so much. The teachers were very surprised at how fast she picked up threading the machine, sewing with the machine, hand stitching, etc.

You can see the lovely aprons and critters they made. I guess I will have to pull out my grandmother's sewing machine so she can teach me how to use it, LOL!

Foam Bubbles Party

2009-06-28T20:41:00.001-05:00

Emily was invited to a foam bubble party this weekend for her friends birthday.

As you can see it was fun!

Emily goes to Championships!

2009-06-26T14:41:00.009-05:00

Well, we made it to the stadium this morning at 6:45 am to find out that the electricity had gone out about 1:20 am and CPS was working on getting it working for us. So at a little after 7:00 am we were able to enter the stadium. Because of the outage it set everything back about 30 minutes.

Here is Amy waiting...

It is time and Emily is ready for the freestyle event.

Emily has the silver cap on.

She takes a look over to see where her opponent is.

She gives it her all.

She is pushing forward.

She takes 1st in this heat but not the event.

WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU EMILY!!!

I can't believe that a little over a month ago she couldn't swim across the pool and look at were she is now.

Summer is off to wonderful start...

2009-06-16T16:59:00.007-05:00

Well, we are having a wonderful start to summer! The girls are enjoying Swim Team, VBS's, Outings, Etc.

Emily has participated in 2 more swim competitions this past week and will have her final one this Saturday.

We are so proud of her because she started about a month ago not knowing how to swim and is placing in competition.

Amy has made progress and is now walking on her tippy toes and lifting her head above water (this is HUGE for her). I know by next year she will be participating in competitions also.

Here is Emily at one of the meets last week.

My two little princesses!

Emily takes 4th in swim competition last Saturday

2009-06-05T20:55:00.009-05:00

Oh how we are so proud of Emily. From going from not knowing how to swim, to competing last Saturday and taking 4th place.

She truly has become a little fish!

Coach Melissa giving Emily the pep talk.

Coach Melissa letting Emily know she believes in her.

Get mark, Get set, Go...

Look at her go!

YUMMY, YUMMY...

2009-06-04T08:06:00.004-05:00

Ok, I am not a big Betty Crocker Boxed Brownie Mix fan. I prefer my homemade ones from scratch and if I have to use a box mix I like to use Duncan Hines.

But I have been reading blogs everywhere raving about this particular "Cookie Brownie Bar" mix. So I cracked down on Tuesday and bought the box and made them yesterday. Let me just say that these bars are YUMMY, YUMMY!!!

Everyone is right these are delicious. So the next time you are at the store do yourself a favor and pick up a box of Betty Crockers ~Cookie Brownie Bars. You will be happy that you did.

Summer Activity Calendar (from School)

2009-06-03T09:11:00.006-05:00

Here are some suggested creative things we will do this summer.

*Click on each month to make bigger.

School is out...

2009-06-01T09:24:00.009-05:00

Look at my littlest graduate from Pre-k. I can't believe that she will be in Kinder next year. My babies are growing up and the days are going by way too fast for me. I am trying to savor and enjoy every moment of everyday.

Amy with Sister Catherine.

Amy and her friends.

Emily and one of her favorite teachers.

Oh and look at how big our puppies are. We have just two left to find good homes for. The girls are missing the ones that have been adopted so much.

Well, Summer is here and we are looking forward to a very exciting summer.

***Emily placed 4th at her swim meet this past Saturday. We are so proud of her!***

Swim Team

2009-05-17T21:02:00.001-05:00

The girls are enjoying Swim Team practice. Emily is doing really good and Amy is in the water which is huge!

Puppy Love ~ part 2

2009-05-09T10:36:00.002-05:00

The girls are loving the puppies and don't want to give them up. The puppies are 4 weeks old now and are growing, growling, crying, barking, etc.

The girls have begun teaching them to drink milk from a bowl and the puppies seem to have the hang of it. The next step is soft food which the girls will teach the puppies mid week.

The girls have named each puppy and hold and play with them every day. They play with them like they do there dolls and it is so precious to see.

The names of the puppies are:

Brownie

Whitie

Tiny

Tom

Sparkles

Spots

Lilly

Which one to keep will be very difficult because the girls love each one of them. The puppies will be ready to go to their new homes in about 2 weeks.

May Crowning

2009-05-09T09:59:00.006-05:00

Two years ago Emily participated in the Crowning of Mary ceremony at her Pre-k school. She presented a candle.

This year Amy presented a candle.

Amy ~ Fiesta Bike Parade

2009-04-29T20:39:00.001-05:00

Amy had her Fiesta Bike Parade at school last week. She had so much fun!

Emily ~ Book Mark Contest

2009-04-29T20:28:00.001-05:00

Emily entered her schools Book Fair Book Mark contest. The theme was "lights, camera, action."
She won first place and received $20 gift certificate to use toward her book fair purchases.

Emily ~ Jail House Rock Musical

2009-04-29T20:13:00.001-05:00

Emily was in a musical last week called "Jail House Rock." She had a line and sang her little heart out. I am so proud of her and I think she has found a new passion.

Easter ~ by Kristen at We Are THAT Family

2009-04-12T12:21:00.003-05:00

Easter

A virgin.

A baby.

Savior.

A boy.

A temple.

Miracles.

Messiah.

A donkey.

A crowd. Waving Palm Branches.

A Triumphal Entry.

Jesus.

The Last Supper. A Cup.

A Garden. A Prayer.

A kiss. A Betrayal.

An Arrest.

Scourged. Beaten. Whipped.

A Cross.

A Hill. A Crowd. A Crown. Thorns. Nails. Hands. Feet.

A Spear.

A Cry.

A Die Cast.

Death.

An Ending.

Darkness.

Sorrow. Weeping.

Wait-

A Rumble.

An Angel.

A Stone. Rolling. A Witness.

A Miracle.

Alive.

Jesus.

Forever.

Sin.

Forgiven.

For Me: A Hope.

For You: A Future.

For Us: A Beginning.

We will see Him again.

I believe that says it all!!!

HAPPY EASTER!!!

Puppy Love...

2009-04-11T16:41:00.005-05:00

Well, they are here!
Last night a little after 11 pm Popcorn delivered the first of seven puppy's!

This is Emily and Amy waiting with Popcorn for the big moment.

We have 3 boys and 4 girls.

One red and white boy and

two red and white girls

and the others are black and white.

Popcorn is a wonderful MOM and the girls can't get enough of the puppy's.

Hashbrown Casserole

2009-04-08T12:14:00.009-05:00

HASHBROWN CASSEROLE

*This is great for breakfast or also makes a wonderful side dish for any meal. I like to serve it at Thanksgiving with ham. This is a great potluck dish.

1 (30-32 oz pkg) frozen potato hash browns, THAWED

½ cup melted butter

1 can cream of chicken soup

1 ½ to 2 cups grated mild cheddar cheese

1 - 8oz carton sour cream

¼ cup onion, chopped (or ½ tsp onion powder)

1 tsp salt

2 to 3 cups cornflakes

½ cup melted butter for cornflakes (optional)

Mix together ½ cup melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onions or onion powder and salt. Add cheese and fold in thawed potatoes. Pour into a 9 x 13 baking dish.

Top with cornflakes and drizzle ½ cup melted butter over cornflakes (butter on cornflakes step is optional – taste great either way with or without the extra butter).

Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.

*Cooks Notes: The night before I make this dish, I take the frozen package of hashbrowns from freezer and transfer to refrigerator to thaw overnight.

*Another version: Can delete cornflakes step and split cheese in half and mix half of cheese in potato mixture and top casserole with other half of cheese. Great either way!

Red Envelope Project - UPDATE

2009-04-04T19:41:00.001-05:00

Final "Sent" Estimate:

1,688,081 Envelopes!

What Else Can I Do?

STOP Right now - and spend a few minutes in silent prayer...

Every day - and spend a few minutes in silent prayer...

http://www.redenvelopeproject.org/

It has been a while...

2009-04-02T20:53:00.015-05:00

Since I have posted about the girls and this is because my drive was full of pictures and I had to make room to download the latest ones.

So now my littlest princess is no longer 4.

She enjoyed her small gathering with us for now and she will have a princess party in a few weeks when her cousins come in town. She can't wait to have her real party.

She loved all her gifts!

Bye-Bye 4 and Hello 5!!!!!

Amy had her spring choir performance last week and she had so much fun. I can't believe that the year is coming to an end and that summer is around the corner.

The other day at school Amy made this clown and then Sister Catherine asked them to tell her what the clown had to say:

Emily had her bike rodeo yesterday. She didn't place but she did enjoy it.

Tonight was Fine Arts night at school and the theme was Animal songs. Emily was a joy to listen to and look at.

Well, the next few weeks until school is out will be busy. The girls will get their Choir and Awana awards in 3 weeks, they joined the swim team and practice starts in May every day after school and then competition. We are busy, busy, busy but having so much fun!!!

Siesta Scripture Memory Team #7

2009-04-01T15:31:00.003-05:00

Ok Siesta's here is my 7th Scripture. If you are interested in joining it is never to late, you can click on the LMP Blog

Daniel 4:2 (NIV)

It is my pleasure to tell you about the miraculous signs and wonders that the Most High God has performed for me.

Carmel Pecan Dream Bars

2009-04-01T13:35:00.008-05:00

This is a recipe that I got from my friend Jill at Jumpin' In. It has turned into one of our family favorites! Thanks for sharing this recipe Jill.

CARMEL- PECAN DREAM BARS

*Oh my, what a wonderful dessert to take to a gathering as no one will be disappointed! This has a carmel flavor with just a touch of chocolate, sweet and delicious!

Base:
1 yellow cake mix

1 egg

1 stick of butter, softened at room temperature or melted over low heat

Mix above with a hand mixer until crumbly and dough like and ingredients are well incorporated. Press into a jelly roll/bar pan (15 x 9 x 1).

Topping:
1 (14 oz) can Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk

1 egg

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup pecan pieces (tiny pieces)

1 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips

8 oz pkg Heath Bits 'O Brickle Toffee Bits

In a bowl mix first 3 ingredients well, add chocolate chips, toffee bits, pecans and stir. Pour on top of cake mix base.

Bake at 350 degrees for about 30 to 35 minutes. The crust will rise and slightly brown. Cool completely and slice into squares when cooled.

*Cooks Notes: Depending on your liking of chocolate and or toffee you can adjust those measurements for either or both in this recipe. Can also delete chocolate chips and only make with toffee.

Red Envelope Project

2009-03-29T17:04:00.005-05:00

Please don't forget to participate in the red envelope project.

Here is the website with more information: http://www.redenvelopeproject.org/

The below was copied and pasted from the Red Envelope Project website:
Get a red envelope. You can buy them at Kinkos, or at party supply stores.

On the front, address it to:

DON'T FORGET YOUR RETURN ADDRESS. THEY WON'T BE DELIVERED WITHOUT IT.

President Barack Obama
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave.
N.W.Washington , D.C. 20500

On the back, write the following message:
This envelope represents one child who died in abortion. It is empty because that life was unable to offer anything to the world. Responsibility begins with conception.

Put it in the mail on March 31st, and send it.

Then send this website to every one of your friends who you think would send one too. I wish we could send 50 million red envelopes, one for every child who died before having a a chance to live. Maybe it will change the heart of the president.

Warmly, Christ Otto

I (Jen) addressed mine to President and Michelle Obama and I have my letters ready for my senators and representative which will go out this Tuesday.

SOPAPILLA CHEESECAKE

2009-03-25T13:41:00.004-05:00

SOPAPILLA CHEESECAKE

*This is a delicious super easy dessert to make. It will leave guest wanting more.

2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese

2 (8 oz) packages refrigerated crescent dinner rolls

1 cup sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup butter, melted

1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (combine 1/2 cup sugar with 1 tbsp cinnamon)

1) Using a 9x13 baking pan, unroll one package of refrigerated crescent rolls and line the bottom of the pan.

2) Flatten.

3) Mix together the cream cheese, sugar, and extract with a hand mixer.

4) Spread over the crescent rolls.

5) Unroll the other can of crescent rolls and place on top of cream cheese mixture, carefully.

6) Pour the melted butter over the top and sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar mixture.

7) Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

*Cooks Note: Serve warm or refrigerate and sever cold. Great either way!

Guess who is 5 today?

2009-03-23T09:56:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Princess Amy!

If you give a mouse a cookie...

2009-03-23T09:51:00.002-05:00

She just may give you an autograph!

Emily was invited to celebrate a friends birthday party this past Saturday at the Magik Theater where "If you give a mouse a cookie..." was the featured presentation.

This was our first time at the Magik Theater and it will not be our last.

Siesta Scripture Memory Team #5

2009-03-05T19:14:00.004-06:00

Ok Siesta's here is my 5th Scripture. If you are interested in joining it is never to late, you can click on the LMP Blog

Hebrews 10:35-36 (NIV)

"So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised."

Oriental Salad

2009-03-04T08:07:00.008-06:00

My friend Jill just posted her recipe for her version of Oriental Salad over at Jumpin In

Here is mine.

ORIENTAL SALAD

*This is a favorite on David’s side of the family. It is a great salad that all will enjoy.

1 head leaf lettuce, shredded
4 green onions, chopped
½ cup slivered almonds, toasted
2 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
1 pkg Top Ramen noodles (chicken flavored)

Crush top ramen noodles in bag. Place crushed noodles and almonds on cookie sheet and brown in 350 degree oven. Stirring often for 3 to 5 minutes. Let cool and mix all above ingredients in big bowl.

Dressing:
½ cup oil
2 tbsp sugar
3 tbsp vinegar
½ tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
chicken flavor packet from Top Ramen noodles

Mix dressing ingredients in small bowl. Do not add dressing to salad until ready to serve.

I Love this song...

2009-02-28T13:20:00.003-06:00

Easy Beef Enchiladas

2009-02-25T12:21:00.007-06:00

My friend Jill over at Jumpin' In host What's Cookin' Wednesday. If you are interest in some great recipes from dessert and appetizers to main course please check out her post every Wednesday.

Last night I was feeling under the weather. I wanted to make something fast and had come across a recipe a few month ago for Beef Enchiladas that sounded interesting and simple. I made a few modifications to the original recipe and it was quite delicious.

1 pound ground meat
1/2 tsp dried onion
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tsp Knorr tomato boullion with chicken flavor (in red top jar)
1 - 10 3/4 oz can of cream of mushroom soup
1 - 10 oz can of Enchilada sauce
8 oz of shredded cheddar cheese
6 -8 corn tortillas (or can use flour)

Brown the meat with pepper, when meat is almost done add your dried onions and boullion. Once that is done, if you are using corn tortillas you will want to microwave them for about 45 seconds to get them soft so that they don't crack while rolling in the meat mixture. Fill tortillas with the meat mixture and roll up and place in a lightly greased 8x8 casserole dish making sure the seam side is down. Combine the mushroom soup and enchilada sauce in pan and warm so that it can incorporate together and pour on top of enchiladas. Top with cheese. Bake at 350 for 30-40 minutes.

*Cooks Note: Can add some cheese to meat mixture if you would like before rolling into tortillas. Can also add in some black olives.

If you are looking to see a good flick...

2009-02-20T21:52:00.004-06:00

you don't want to miss "Madea Goes To Jail" as you will not be disappointed!!!

David and I never really go see a movie on the first day they premiere but I have been talking about this one for weeks.

This is one of Tyler Perry's best movies yet and Madea is so hilarious!!! If you are wanting to see a great movie that will have you laughing so hard that you will cry or maybe pee in your pants than this is one for you and on a serious note the story line of forgiveness was well done.

Great job Mr. Perry, we can't wait to see what God puts on your heart for the next movie. I can't wait to own "Madea Goes To Jail."

Amy blowing bubbles

2009-02-20T17:02:00.003-06:00

Emily Participates in Mass

2009-02-20T16:41:00.008-06:00

Last Friday it was Emily's classes turn to participate in Mass. Emily was chosen to do a reading from the book of Genesis. Here is a picture of her reading and what she read is below:

Emily did a fabulous job, I am so proud of her!

Siesta Scripture Memory Team #4

2009-02-17T08:04:00.003-06:00

Hi Siesta's,
Here is my #4 scripture that I will be memorizing.

Galatians 2:20 (NIV)

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

http://livingproofministries.blogspot.com/2009/02/siesta-scripture-memory-team-verse-4.html

Emily's Valentine Box

2009-02-09T13:45:00.003-06:00

We got a heads up over the weekend that part of Emily's homework this week would be to decorate a shoe box for her Valentines.

Well, I took her to Michael's yesterday and she picked out all kinds of things to decorate her box with, so $20 later we walk out of Michael's with no real theme or idea of what she was really wanting the box to look like.

I think Emily did an excellent job with some of the things that she picked out, don't you?

She decorated all 4 sides with conversation hearts.

It truly is a box fit for a little princess!

Can you guess where I will be Friday, February 20th?

2009-02-07T14:49:00.002-06:00

MADEA GOES TO JAIL!!!!

I can't wait!!!!

I love Tyler Perry's plays and movies. My all time favorite play is Madea Goes To Jail and on February 20th the movie comes out and it can't get here soon enough.

Our Day at the RODEO!

2009-02-07T10:12:00.016-06:00

What a beautiful day it was yesterday for the RODEO! It was windy and fun and here are a few of my favorite moments captured on film.

Dad and Emily on the Fairiswheel.

Amy and me on the Fairiswheel.

The girls on the bumper cars.

The girls on a jeep ride.

Dad and the girls on a roller coaster.

The girls with a Texas size boot.

Emily coming down a slide.

The girls on a spin ride.

The girls inside a bear ride.

The girls on an airplane ride.

This was so funny to watch because every time these cars turn the corner it would go so fast it would jerk them. As you can see Amy thought it was hilarious but I think it concerned Emily.

The girls on a motorcycle ride.

My Favorite picture of the day!

Who can go to a Rodeo and not have cotton candy?

Oh, we had such a blast and it was the perfect day!

Siesta Scripture Memory Team #3

2009-02-03T18:31:00.003-06:00

Ok Siesta's,
This is the scripture I will be memorizing for this half of February.

2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV)
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.

http://livingproofministries.blogspot.com/2009/02/siesta-scripture-memory-team-verse-3.html

Mom and Dad Date Night

2009-02-01T09:22:00.004-06:00

David and I haven't been out on a date since August. The reason being with Amy and her sickness that she had, David's pneumonia, and Emily sick on and off. We were well over due for a wonderful day and evening.

The girls love going to Aunt Ann's and Uncle David's and when Ann called Friday night and asked us if the girls could spend the night we said absolutely! The girls were so excited. Amy packed her bags Friday night and couldn't fall asleep that evening because she was ready to go. So 6 bags later (3 of Amy's and 3 of Emily's) the girls were dropped off after lunch around noon yesterday.

David and I caught up on a few movies, Fireproof and The Family that Prey's. We also enjoyed a nice dinner at Ruth Chris.

This was an evening that we so needed and so enjoyed. I know the girls are having a blast and probably will not want to come home later today.

Childhood Memory #1

2009-01-31T12:44:00.005-06:00

Ok, When I was little I absolutely HATED to eat Oscar Mayer Hotdogs. The texture felt weird but the taste was even worse. I remember as a child probably around 5 years of age sitting to dinner to eat well you figured right, a hotdog. I can remember getting a napkin and I thought I was sly because I would take a bite and then when I thought my parents were not looking I would spit it quickly into my napkin. I remember this day so well because I had successfully spit the whole hotdog into my napkin. I got up from the table to throw the evidence in the trash. I did it, I was safe I thought until about 15 minutes later when my Mom called me into the kitchen over to the trash can and asked if the napkin that had opened with all my evidence was mine. I probably told her that it wasn't but I remember having to sit down and eat an other hotdog, or I should say eat a hotdog. It took a few hours along with some gagging.

All this to tell you that last night David picked up Whataburger for the girls. They wanted to eat in the car because they were watching a Barbie movie so they were at their own little drive in. David left them in the car (here at home in our drive way) while we were having Sea Island (at the kitchen table). When the movie was over the girls came inside and David asked the girls "did you eat all your food," where the echoed response was "yes Daddy." Because the deal was that if they didn't eat all their food they wouldn't get dessert.

Well this morning while David was loading the girls in the car to take Emily to Cheer a handkerchief fell down from the seat and opened up. Can you guess what was in it? Yes, it was food that one didn't want to eat last night. Can you guess which princess did it? Yes, Amy and she did get dessert last night.

Oh my goodness, it is funny how your childhood does come back through your children.

The girls are enjoying life...

2009-01-28T15:41:00.002-06:00

Emily is loving Cheerleading and has caught on so quick. Look at how adorable she is.

Ok, and look at this face (below), LOL! Amy loves going to sisters games and I know why, it is because of the concession stand. She loves pick out chips, popcorn and candy to snack on while her sister does all the hard work of cheering on the team.

The girls have been enjoying some of the weather here. They have been helping Daddy clean up the leaves in the back yard and they have been enjoying it.

We are just enjoying life over here at the Osborn home!

Chrissa ~ An American Girl Movie

2009-01-25T09:07:00.003-06:00

A few weeks ago I purchased Chrissa for the girls to watch. I have been wanting to post how impressed I am about the movie. It covers bullying so well and several types such as cyber, physical, emotional, etc.

As I sat down with girls to watch it, it became a great tool for discussion. We talked about bully's and how they make us feel, who is a bully, are you a bully, what can we do to stop bullying.

One of the key things in the movie was you have to tell someone when you are being bullied because if you don't speak up the bully will continue to win.

I highly recommend this movie to all Mom's with girls. What a great teaching tool.

My Prayer This Day

2009-01-20T14:41:00.004-06:00

Heavenly Father,

I pray for President Obama and his family that you would cover them all with a hedge of protection. I pray for him and in all his dealings with our nation and the world. Please lead him down the path you have set for him and keep him and our nation in your hands. Help him make wise and honorable decisions in all things. Remind all of us as citizens to support him with our prayers, our words and our actions.

Amen

I personally didn't vote for Obama but I will pray that he will seek God in all that he does and that God will protect him and his family.

1 Peter 2:9 (NIV)
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

Siesta Scripture Memory Team - #2

2009-01-15T08:21:00.007-06:00

Ok this is a long scripture that I choose so I am still working on it.

Over at The LPM Blog, Beth Moore has started a Scripture Memory Team where on the 1st and 15th of every month we will be posting a scripture that we will be memorizing. If you would like to participate please click on the links below as you are not to late.

http://livingproofministries.blogspot.com/2009/01/siesta-scripture-memory-team-verse-2.html

Also please check out Beth's Scripture Memory Tutorial it will help you to R.E.N.E.W. your mind!
http://livingproofministries.blogspot.com/2009/01/scripture-memory-mini-tutorial_08.html

This is the scripture I will be memorizing:

Proverbs 2:1-10 NIV
1 My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you,
2 turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding,
3 and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding,
4 and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure,
5 then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.
6 For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
7 He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless,
8 for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.
9 Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path.
10 For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.

Girl Scout Cookies

2009-01-14T07:12:00.004-06:00

Well, Emily set a goal of 100 boxes. She is so proud of herself because she sold 165 boxes. Thank you to everyone who purchased GS Cookies from Brownie Emily.

We pick up the Cookies on February the 6th and we will start delivering February the 7th (that is also when monies will be picked up).

Thank you again, from Brownie Emily :)

Esther - It is tough being a woman

2009-01-13T12:38:00.005-06:00

I am so excited as I started Beth Moore's latest bible study "Esther" this morning!!!!

I can't wait to study, seek and learn, what God wants me to see, practice and accept through this study on Esther. Thank you God for giving this study to Beth to share with us!

Emily's first game to Cheer at!

2009-01-11T09:21:00.004-06:00

Well Emily's first game to Cheer at was yesterday. She is cheering on the basketball players at church.

We had an issue with her skort because it was sown incorrectly and the new one hadn't arrived yet so thank goodness we had a green pair of pants.

Here is Emily and Ashlee being silly.

Here they are cheering at half-time.

Here they are cheering during a time out.

Emily is having so much fun and loves cheering!

Our Weekend With TACO

2009-01-10T19:58:00.008-06:00

Taco is Emily's class mascot and it was his turn to come home with Emily this weekend. Taco has a traveling journal that he writes in and adds pictures too to let the other students in the class know what his adventure was for that weekend.

Here is the collage that I put together but it looks even better because when I took it to Walgreens to have a 5x7 made I added a black border and in black font I added "Taco's weekend with Emily."

Here is what Taco wrote in his journal:

Dear Friends,

Oh Boy, I would have to say that I am one of the luckiest Chihuahua’s in the world. I get so excited every weekend because I know that I am going to have so much fun and I can’t wait to see what my newest adventure entails!

This weekend I spent with Emily and her family. I also got to meet Emily’s two hens Pip and Squeak and her two dogs Popcorn and Patches. I had a wonderful time as we started out the evening going to Emily’s favorite place to eat for dinner, Jim’s. We were celebrating Emily’s excellent report card.

After dinner we went to Target to buy Emily a present for her excellent grades. While we were there I noticed that they were having a SALE on Beggin Strips (it is one of my favorite snacks) which Emily’s Dad bought for me :). By the time we got back to Emily’s house I was tired and ready for bed.

We awoke early Saturday morning as Emily had a game to Cheer at. She is on a Cheerleading team and I had so much fun cheering on the team. I was very excited to also participate in some of the cheers with the cheerleaders. I just have the best life!

Then if you can believe it we took off to Boerne to see the Livestock Show and Auction. Wow, that was so much fun to see all the animals. We got home late and went fast asleep.

I can’t believe how fast the weekend goes when your having fun. It was Sunday and we had a big breakfast and then went to church. We spent the rest of the day relaxing and playing.

Thank you Emily for a wonderful weekend.

Love, Taco

Pasta E Fagiloli (Olive Garden Style)

2009-01-07T13:55:00.009-06:00

I was watching Rachel Ray this morning as she was making her version of Pasta E Fagiloli and thought that that sounded good for dinner tonight. As I did a google search on Paste E Fagiloli I came across a recipe that sounded even better that Rachel Rays and decided to make it. I did a few modifications from the original recipe but it came out delicious. Here is my Pasta E Fagiloli - Olive Garden style version.

PASTA E FAGILOLI (OLIVE GARDEN STYLE)

3 teaspoons oil
2 lbs ground beef (I am sure ground turkey or chicken would taste great too)
10 oz bag shredded carrots
½ onion, chopped
2 cups celery, diced
28 oz can diced tomatoes
1 (16 oz) can red kidney beans
1 (15 oz) can Cannellini beans (white kidney beans)
4 (14 oz) cans beef stock
3 tsp oregano
2 tsp pepper
1 tsp kosher salt
5 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or dried parsley)
1 ½ tsp Tabasco sauce
2 (26 ½ oz) cans spaghetti sauce
2 ½ cups dry pasta wagon wheel shells

Sauté beef in oil in large 10 quart pot until beef starts to brown. Add onions, carrots, celery and tomatoes and simmer for about 5 minutes.

Drain and rinse beans and add to pot. Also add beef stock, oregano, pepper, salt, Tabasco and spaghetti sauce.

Simmer until celery and carrots are almost tender, about 30 minutes. Add pasta noodles the last 15 to 20 minutes before serving.

Back to School, Already

2009-01-05T16:57:00.007-06:00

Wow, I can't believe that our two weeks has come and will be gone as the girls get ready to go back to school tomorrow. It will be a difficult journey as they have been going to bed around midnight and waking up between 10 and noon. What a rude awakening they will have tomorrow but they are excited about going back to school.

It was a glorious two weeks being with my family whom all are doing so well and are healthy!

I just got done filling out Amy's paperwork (11 pages) so that I can register her for Kinder next year. I can't believe that my baby will be in school all day next year. I know she will do excellent.

Oh, also the girls painted some ornaments as we do every year. They did them all by themselves and did such a fabulous job, don't you think?

I am so excited that on next Tuesday, January 13th I will be participating at Church in the study "Esther" by Beth Moore! I love Esther and can't wait to start.

See more about the study on Esther here: http://www.vimeo.com/1551900?pg=embed&sec=1551900

I have a Made UP Mind In 2009!! I will be devoting more time to God and my lovely family! I can't wait to see where He takes me this year!!

Siesta Scripture Memory Team - #1

2009-01-01T19:38:00.009-06:00

Over at The LPM Blog, Beth Moore has started a Scripture Memory Team where on the 1st and 15th of every month we will be posting a scripture that we will be memorizing. If you would like to participate please click on the links below as you are not to late.

1st & 15 Siesta Scripture Memory Team! We're On!

http://livingproofministries.blogspot.com/

This is the scripture I will be memorizing:

Proverbs 2:1-10 NIV
1 My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you,
2 turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding,
3 and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding,
4 and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure,
5 then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.
6 For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
7 He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless,
8 for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.
9 Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path.
10 For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.

My 100th Blog Post

2009-01-01T19:31:00.006-06:00

Ok, this is really my 110th post but I messed up because I was at 93 for the year of 2008 and forgot to add the 15 that I had for 2007, plus the 1 entry that I have so far for 2009 gave me a total of 109. So this is really my 110th post.

But anyways here is my 100 things about me.

01. I am a Christian.
02. I desire to be a godly woman, but I fear I fall quite short.
03. I trust God’s grace alone for my salvation.
04. I am a wife to a wonderful husband.
05. I have two beautiful daughters.
06. I am enjoying being a wife and mother.
07. I am grateful and thankful that I am able to be a SAHM.
08. I am from Texas.
09. I have lived in Colorado and Texas.
10. I dislike the hot weather we deal with here in Texas, especially the summer heat.
11. I really dislike mosquitoes.
12. I am 37 years old.
13. I've been married for 9 years, and we will be celebrating our 10-year anniversary this coming September.
14. I am so grateful to God for David, I love him so much!
15. I suffer from seasonal allergies.
16. I think I’m a tad OCD.
17. I am not very adventurous.
18. I am not a big risk taker.
19. I am very detailed oriented.
20. I like to have a daily to do list on my calendar and get excited when I can cross things out.
21. I have absolutely loved making my own family traditions with my husband and girls.
22. I can’t believe how fast the days, months, years go by and how big my girls are getting before I know it – well, lets not go there.
23. I am a hard worker.
24. I don’t like to procrastinate as this stresses me out.
35. I like to get things done on time or sooner.
26. I plan the girl’s birthday parties at least 5 to 6 months in advance.
27. I use to be a night owl before kids.
28. I use to be able to take naps at any time of the day before kids, now I have trouble just getting in the 8 hours of sleep that is needed daily.
29. I like to cook.
30. I love to bake.
31. I love making and taking meals to friends and family, especially when someone is sick or has just had a baby.
32. I love stamping.
33. I use to have time to scrapbook but not since Amy came along (It is not her fault :) ).
34. I love photography.
35. I love to take pictures and probably take at least anywhere from 100 to 300 pictures per month.
36. My favorite color is, well, chocolate brown, pink, pale blue, green apple, etc. (well I have a few favorite colors).
37. I was the Coordinator for 2 yeas of our MOPS (Mothers of PreSchoolers) group at church.
38. I also served on the Hospitality Committee, Co-Coordinator and filled in where ever and when ever needed.
39. I enjoy volunteering at Church and with Awana’s.
40. I love to listen to KLOVE and any Contemporary Christian or Gospel music.
41. I wear socks around the house and especially at night to bed.
42. I love to wear pajamas all day if I don’t have anywhere to go.
43. We would love to take the girls to Disney World in the next year or two.
44. God has blessed me tremendously beyond what I could ever imaged or dreamed of.
45. I love to do Bible studies. I especially adore Beth Moore, Priscilla Shrier, and I attempted a Kay Arthur study last summer on Isaiah but wasn’t able to keep up (I hope to do one of her study’s possibly this coming summer).
46. My birthstone is a diamond.
47. I do enjoy watching shows on Bravo like Project Runway and enjoy the Food Network also.
48. I love to watch Joyce Meyers, Creflo Dollar, etc. teach on TV.
49. I would love to go on a trip with my girlfriends for a few days.
50. I am half way there, 50 down 50 to go. I am getting to the 100th and it is difficult.
51. I enjoy Girls Night Out with my friends.
52. I would love to spend a lazy summer at a lake house.
53. I love fall as I love to look at the trees turn yellow, orange and red.
54. I love sunsets.
55. I would love to see the Northern Lights.
56. I wish I could speak more Spanish.
57. I don’t swim.
58. I don’t play any sports.
59. I paint my toenails.
60. I don’t paint my fingernails.
61. I love jewelry.
62. I love to go to Wal-Mart and Target, sometimes just to walk around and browse.
63. Sometimes I go in for 2 or 3 things and come out spending a $100 and don’t know how I did, LOL.
64. I love the spa. Manicures, pedicures, facials, massages, I like them all.
65. But haven’t kept up with any of them since the girls came along.
66. I’m a sucker for a new pair of shoes or a new purse.
67. I love to shop.
68. I love to find things on sale or things that are greatly discounted.
69. Because of this I tend to buy things that really are not necessities.
70. And because I get excited about finding a “good deal” I tend to buy these “things” because I feel I can’t pass up this great deal (I need to work on this).
71. I love Ann Taylor clothes!
72. I love to drink TEA.
73. When it comes to dishes I prefer to wash them by hand than to load and unload a dishwasher (It is the least of my favorite things to do).
74. I don’t mind washing clothes but dread folding them and putting them away.
75. I detest clutter, but my house is rarely tidy.
76. Maybe when the kids are grown and out of the house it will be, I can hope, can’t I?
77. I enjoy doing crafty things, especially with my girls.
78. I am happy/sad that Amy will be in Kinder next year as I enjoy our time together during the day and will miss this next year.
79. I feel so blessed to be who I am and where I am at this moment.
80. I love to hear the girls laugh.
81. I love to listen to the girls play together (making up plays, singing, etc.).
82. I love the relationship/friendship the girls have with one another.
83. I am thankful for the funny things the girls say and do (those moments are engraved in my heart).
84. I love to go into the girl’s rooms when they are asleep to just look at their precious faces and kiss their heads.
85. I love the unexpected hugs and kisses I get.
86. I love snuggling with the girls whether it is to talk or just watch a movie.
87. I was on bed rest for almost 2 ½ months with Amy.
88. That was such a stressful and difficult time for me.
89. I was thankful at that time that my mom could come and stay with us to help me with Emily who was about 18 months old.
90. We would have loved to have more children but my body can’t handle the weight that I gain in pregnancy.
91. I gained with both girls approximately 55 to 60 pounds (with each).
92. I have always weighed less than 100 pounds all my life until 2 years ago I finally am in the 100’s now!
93. I really should be exercising regularly but have trouble finding time.
94. I’m a very trusting person, and I like almost everyone.
95. I usually assume the best about people and tend to give them the benefit of the doubt.
96. The down side of that is, I often share more than I should before I realize someone may not be trustworthy.
97. But on the plus side, I have lots of friends.
98. Relationships with family and friends mean the world to me, but I don't always do a good job showing it.
99. If I can keep my husband happy and content, and my children grow up to be godly, I will consider my life to be a worthwhile success.
100. This was a hard task coming up with a 100 things all about me. It took several hours of a few days to complete this list and now I can scratch this off my to do list!

Welcoming 2009

2009-01-01T18:00:00.011-06:00

We were invited to my friend Carrie's house for a

count down to noon

New Year's Celebration!

Carrie made the girls these cute party hats. Then she gave them a piece of card stock and asked them what did they think God wanted them to work on for the new year and for them to draw it and she gave a magnet for them to place on the back to hang on the fridge as a reminder all year.

Amy said that she was going to work on being nicer to her sister.

So she drew a picture of Emily.

Emily said she was going to work on being nicer to her sister.
She drew her sharing a dress with Amy.

Then they got to decorate cupcakes, that was so fun!
Here they are with their friend Ashlee eating lunch.

Then we had a count down at noon and celebrated by pulling the stings from some firecrackers!

What a BLAST that was!

Then there was more exciting news as Pip and Squeak our hens laid their first eggs yesterday!

As you can see Daddy accidentally broke one.

The girls couldn't bring in the new year with out their American Girl dolls.

Then we did our own fire works at our house before it got dark.

The girls had a wonderful day bring in 2009!

We can't wait to see what God has in store for us this new year!!

Happy New Year Everyone!!!

Christmas 2008

2008-12-28T21:07:00.001-06:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Happy Birthday JESUS!

2008-12-25T08:38:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday To You
Happy Birthday To You
Happy Birthday Dear Jesus
Happy Birthday To You.

Happy Birthday Jesus
I'm So Glad Its Christmas
all The Tinsel And Lights
and The Presents Are Nice
but The Real Gift Is You.

Happy Birthday Jesus
I'm So Glad Its Christmas
all The Carols And Bells
make The Holiday Swell
and it's All About You
happy Birthday Jesus
JESUS I Love You!

MERRY CHRISTmas!!!

Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir - Happy Birthday Jesus

Amy's and Emily's Journey Part 3 ~ Answers

2008-12-22T08:59:00.003-06:00

Well, Praise God we have answers!

Believe it or not the girls had two totally different things.

Amy had an Immune Complex. This is were her immune system was attacking her immune system. Dr. Patel explained it like this - it is like you have a loaded gun and you are pulling the trigger, once you get the trigger to a certain point you can't go back you have to fire. He said that since this wasn't caught early (back in August when it started) that it would have to run its course which takes anywhere from 3 to 4 months. Well I am so glad to let you all know that the blisters on Amy's tongue are gone, Thank you Jesus.

Emily's blisters started up on the 22nd of November. She had a virus that last 3 to 4 weeks and I am so glad to let you know that the blisters on Emily's tongue are gone, Thank you Jesus.

Well, all of us are doing well including David who is moving around and looks to be at 90% (recovering from his pneumonia).

Thank you all for your love and prayers!

Some of the fun things the girls have been doing!

2008-12-21T08:41:00.017-06:00

Well, it has been a busy week and a half full of all sorts of fun things and activities for the girls.

One activity the girls had done was decorate their trees in their rooms.

Here is Emily's tree, which now has a beautiful red star on top (not seen in this picture).

Here is Amy's tree, she has Dora as her tree topper.

Here is Emily singing with the Girls Scouts at a Nursing Home last weekend.

Here is Emily at her teachers house having a Girl Scout party. We made Chocolate Crackles, a messy cookie to eat because of the powder sugar but so worth it. It is almost like a little brownie bite but better. These are one of Emily's favorites!

The Girl Scouts had an ornament exchange and this is the ornament Emily won.

Our Nativity set has grown. Thanks to Mr. Jolly our Elf, he left the girls a few boxes which included the Little Peoples Inn at Bethlehem, the Little Drummer Boy and the Three Wise Men sets. What a thoughtful gift from Mr. Jolly!

Here is Amy at one of her two school parties where she got to visit with Santa and Santa gave her a gift.

Here is Emily at her school's choir performance the other night. They were little elf's and the cutest thing was when they sang "All I Want For Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth" as Emily fits that picture very well!

Here is Emily at her school party on Friday as Santa made a surprise visit.

The girls have been so Blessed this year and have had fun doing things to fulfill our 25 days of Advent!

Remembering My Grandmother

2008-12-20T20:37:00.013-06:00

It was 10 years ago this past Tuesday, December 16th that cancer took the life of a precious woman, my Grandmother,

Olivia.

Grandma was an amazing woman. Always smiling, energetic, creative, encouraging and had such a love for life and the most positive attitude of anyone I have ever known. She was a living example of the Proverbs 31 woman.

She was a Godly God fearing woman, daughter, sister, friend, wife, mother, grandmother and would have been the Greatest Great Grandmother in the world!

To celebrate her love of baking and cooking we put together a cookbook in her honor with her most famous family recipes and added some our families favorites too. Over 100 pages of recipes later we finally have our cookbook completed!

Because one of Grandma's favorite things to make was tamales, I have been asking my Aunt Libby to teach me how to make one of my Grandmothers specialties. Well, today was that day.

Here is our meat.

Here is our masa.

Here is our bean ones.

Here is our meat ones ready to be steamed.

And finally here are our tamales being steamed.

There is nothing like eating a tamale right from the pot. It took about 5 hours to complete and we made 22 dozen total of meat, bean and jalapeno bean tamales. These tamales came out delicious and I will be serving them Christmas day.

Thank you Aunt Libby for your time and for my lesson today. Thank you also to Uncle Anthony for your help and TIPS, and thank you Dad for your help.

Emily can't wait to help out with my next batch of tamales. The traditions of my Grandmother will be passed on from generation to generation!

It was a beautiful day as we looked though albums and pictures and reminisced about a wonderful woman, my Grandmother, Olivia.

We miss you so much and look forward to the day we see you in heaven.

Girl Scout Cookies

2008-12-17T06:11:00.001-06:00

Just a reminder if you are wanting to purchase those delicious cookies from the Girl Scouts, Brownie Emily will be selling them starting January 1st!

The Night that CHRIST was Born ~ Bethlehem Nights

2008-12-14T08:33:00.004-06:00

Wow, what an experience. The girls and I participated in Bethlehem Nights up at church last night. We first got dressed in costume.

We were in the kids corner where our assignment was to play games that were played the night Christ was born. There were marbles and dreidel which Emily plays very well.

Here you can see Emily signing the census.

Here is Amy signing the census.

The girls had so much fun. We were only signed up to volunteer for one hour but we ended up staying two hours.

Here are Emily and Amy with a Roman Soldier.

Emily went to jail and I had to pay two coins to get her out.

Then it was the most anticipated experience of the night. We saw the "CHILD"!

The girls were in amazement.

This picture would have made a wonderful Christmas card.

What a blessing and honor it was to participate with my girls in this re-dramatization of the night that Christ was born!

Amy's Choir Christmas Program

2008-12-11T12:10:00.005-06:00

Well, last night at Choir Amy sang in her Christmas Program. It was so cute. Emily was not present as she is in 1st grade and does a different Christmas Program. I attended by myself this year as David is still trying to recuperate from his pneumonia.

Here is Amy 2nd child from the right 2nd row from the bottom (if that makes any since?).

Here is Amy as the presentation was done. I didn't get that many pictures because I was video taping her performance.

Here is a cute close up of Amy back in the Choir room!

Sweetheart, you made Mommy so proud! You were like an angel up there!

Siesta Fiesta Ornment Exchange!

2008-12-10T21:31:00.011-06:00

Well, this is my first year participating in the Siesta Ornament Exchange. I am so over joyed that I did.

You can see what Siesta's are about here:

http://thesiestafiestablog.blogspot.com/

You can see the Siesta Ornament Exchange here:

http://thesiestafiestablog.blogspot.com/2008/12/siesta-ornament-exchange-link-up.html

My Siesta Buddy is Sarah from "Tales from Oakbriar Farm"

http://oakbriarfarm.blogspot.com/

I received my package Monday and I was so excited as I love ornaments!

And here is my beautiful ornament! I love it as it looks just like the Bethlehem Star!

I found the perfect place on my tree for it too, wouldn't you agree?

It is perfect and it shines and glimmers and my daughters love it just as much as I!

Can you find it in this picture below? It stands out just like it did the night Christ was born.

Thank you Siesta Sarah as I truly love the ornament you picked out for me!!!!

Our Elf on the Shelf!

2008-12-10T15:36:00.010-06:00

Well, we have been doing our 25 days to Christmas count down and having fun. Yesterday the girls received their "Elf on the Shelf" and boy was the excitement great! We sat down as a family and read the book and then the girls came up with a name for their Elf. The ones that were flying in the air were "snow, bell, skipper, nibbles, peppermint, spy"and finally the one the girls agreed on "JOLLY"!

Yes, our Elf's name is Jolly. We placed him on the piano last night and the girls awoke this morning to find him hiding on some greenery on the entrainment center. Jolly also left the girls a note letting them know how excited he is to be assigned to the Osborn girls! I can't wait to see where we will find him each day.

We also got an invitation from my friend Carrie about making a green hand print for a wreath that she is making with all her family and friends. This was our project last night and the girls did a fabulous job.

Emily drew baby Jesus in a manger and decorated it with sequence and there is a white star at the top of her middle finger.

Amy drew a Christmas mouse and also colored it an used sequence.

Our project on Monday was making little Christmas trees (using pine cones) and decorating them with sequence (as ornaments). They came out cute.

Here are Emily's!

Here are Amy's!

With all that is going on we are truly enjoying the CHRISTmas season!

Amy's and Emily's Journey Part 2

2008-12-08T22:02:00.003-06:00

Well, last Wednesday we saw Dr. Patel and we LOVE him. He is so knowledgeable. He has several different things in mind of what could possibly be causing the blisters in the girls mouths. He took 4 tubes of blood each from both Emily and Amy, they were both brave. We should have answers hopefully by December 16th.

Please continue to keep them both in your prayers and I will update as soon as I get more information.

Amy's Journey Part 1

2008-12-02T10:57:00.005-06:00

Well, as you all know Amy still has the blisters on her tongue, this has been going on for well over 3 months now.

Saturday, November 22nd, Emily came up to David and said I think I have Amy's blisters in my mouth. And low and behold my heart sank as she opened her mouth for us to see the blisters that are now on her tongue.

My chiropractor told me to rub honey on their tongues as this will help. And you know what it has helped with the discomfort and pain but it has not healed it.

I asked Emily how they felt and she said they itch, as Amy was not able to tell me exactly how it felt only that it hurt.

So tomorrow we are off to see Dr. Patel, an oncologist. I am praying and hoping he will be able to help us figure out what this is and what is going on. We do know that from the pathology report this is not life threatening but I still want to figure it out and get them taken care of.

Please continue to keep the girls in your prayers as we continue this journey.

David Update

2008-12-01T19:40:00.003-06:00

Well, David went to the doctor this morning and he is definitely going to stay home at least one more week maybe longer. The pneumonia has really taken a toll on him as he barely gets up for a few minutes and he is worn out. He started fever again tonight so continue to say a prayer for him.

David's 50th Birthday Hoedown!

2008-11-30T14:28:00.009-06:00

Well, as you know David was in the hospital for a few days with pneumonia. He was able to be home for Thanksgiving and rested up all week for his Birthday Hoedown last night. It was so worth it.

Ann, Margaret and Patty really planned out and decorated the place for this special celebration. All David's nieces and nephews and brothers and sisters pitched in to make this a great and memorable birthday for David.

The very special birthday surprise gift were 2 Non-Bearded White Crested Black Polish Hens.

Emily is so excited about raising these hens. They should be laying eggs in a few weeks. Emily named them Pip and Squeak (David really should have named them as they were really his gift, but Emily is taking them over, LOL).

Thank you to everyone that could make it and to the ones that couldn't you were surely missed!

This Hoedown took everything out of David as he has been sleeping all day. Hopefully when he sees the doctor tomorrow we will have good news to report!

Our 25 Days of Christmas Countdown - Advent Calendar

2008-11-29T10:15:00.008-06:00

December 1st is Monday and I have been looking into our Advent Calendar. I have taken ideas from We Are THAT Family http://www.wearethatfamily.com/2008/11/our-family-advent.html and my dear friend Carrie, she has some great ideas with daily scripture to re-enforce the project or theme of the day. http://minimemitchells.blogspot.com/2008/11/christmas.html.

Here is what I am looking at for this year (most of it taken from We Are THAT Family and Carrie's blog):

{December 1} Send a letter to a child. It's such a great way to teach your kids about others. Read I John 4:10

{December 2} Make Santa’s list. Write a letter to Santa and drop off at Macy's Department Store, they donate to a charity for every letter they receive.

{December 3} Let your light shine! ask: How can we do this? Read John 1:5

{December 4} Build a fort from blankets & sheets/ Read a Christmas book in the fort!

{December 5} Lay on the trampoline and stargaze, talk about your dreams for the future.

{December 6} Make cookies.

{December 7} Watch a Christmas Movie.

{December 8} Make paper snowflakes (here's some great patterns) Read Ecc. 3:13

{December 9} Play a board game.

{December 10} Pray for pour people. Read Luke 1: 39-45, Mary visits Elizabeth.

{December 11} Work on Awana teacher’s, Choir teacher's and School teachers gifts.

{December 12} Leave little notes of encouragement all over (i.e. the mailbox, grocery story, park, etc.). Read Psalm 100

{December 13} Bethlehem Night (at church). Discuss the differences between living in Christ days and now.

{December 14} Watch a Christmas Movie and make hot chocolate with lots of marshmallows!

{December 15} Give $5 to someone (find a needy person). Read Rom. 5:8

{December 16} Make a gingerbread house.

{December 17} Talk about Missionaries and pray for them. Isaiah 12: 5-6

{December 18} Make a birthday card for Jesus. Put it under the tree.

{December 19} Sing Christmas songs.

{December 20} Have a Happy Birthday Jesus party, make a cake and give him a gift- such as being good that day, making a wise choice, talking nicely, being kind to a sibling etc. Go look at Christmas lights.

{December 21} Make something for our neighbors (a card, cookies?).

{December 22} Make a spinner http://www.thetoymaker.com/

{December 23} Take bubble baths with Christmas confetti (recipe).

{December 24} Read Christmas story from the Bible. Open Christmas Eve gift from Mom and Dad (pajamas).

{December 25} Talk about Jesus, what it must have been like to be born in a manger, what the sky looked like, the 3 wise men, how there was no place for them to stay except with the animals, etc.

What does your Advent Calendar look like?

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2008-11-27T12:04:00.004-06:00

Well, I got up this morning at 5:00 am and put my turkey in the oven and went back to bed only to be awakened by Emily at 6:30 am. So she crawled up in bed with me and we watched some TV this morning. It is always a joy to wake up to the smell of turkey roasting in the oven and cuddle with my little princess!

I made my Grandmother's dressing for the first time in my life yesterday and I am very proud of myself as when it baked in the oven this morning it smelt just like Grandma's house and the dressing tasted like hers too.

I have so many things to be thankful for:

Jesus

My salvation

Church

Bible studies

My husband

My girls

family

friends

Being a SAHM

Our health

Health insurance

Our home

Our cars

Our lives

Our dogs

Sweets

The funny things the girls say and do

Online shopping

Wal-Mart

Pj's

Slippers

Vaporizers

My husbands job

Favor of God on our lives

Gods protection

Backpack purses

Cell phones

Tea

Grandma's dressing

Ann Taylor

Hugs and Kisses

Smiles

and many, many more things!!!

"Enter into His gates with thanksgiving and a thank offering and into His courts with praise! Be thankful and say so to Him, bless and affectionately praise His name." Psalm 100:4
"Through Him, therefore, let us constantly and at all times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His name." Hebrews 13:15
"Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will]." 1 Thes 5:18

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!!!

Guess who we visited today?

2008-11-26T16:09:00.006-06:00

Yes, it is one of our traditions that every Thanksgiving Eve we visit Santa at the Mall. When we are done visiting with Santa we walk over to the Great Cookie Company for cookies. This was a nice visit as no one was in line and we spent a good 10 minutes talking with Santa. His request again this year is chocolate chip cookies.

Emily and Amy were thinking about what to write on there lists for Santa!

Happy Birthday Sweetheart!

2008-11-24T20:53:00.003-06:00

Well today my Sweetheart turns 50! Wow, I can't believe it. I just wish he didn't have pneumonia. Yes, my pour sweetheart spent this weekend and today his big day sick. The girls drew their Dad some cute pictures and let him rest (rest is always a great gift).

My sweet friend Carrie brought us lunch/dinner. She made us this wonderful chicken noodle soup. Believe it or not the pot is almost empty. She also made us a fabulous pie and some extras that really made our day!

My other sweet friend Carla came by the house today to drop off this made from scratch german chocolate cake (David's favorite). It is the best german chocolate cake we have ever had.

Happy Birthday My Love, get well soon!