A Family Circus

How time flies......... Sweet Boy

2009-08-24T08:03:00.001-07:00

1st Day of Kindergarten

1st Day of 4th GRADE

Summer is over!

2009-08-20T09:02:00.000-07:00

Wow- when summer started I was wondering what in the world we would do all summer. The boys are typical boys/siblings and tend to get on each others nerves quite a bit. We managed to stay busy most of the summer and at least one of them was in a camp or activity, staying at Nana's/Grandma's or having friends over. We also had family in town off and on, and enjoyed a few weeks with the other Crumrine's. I have continued to work, although it was tough thru the summer, but with the help of friends and family we managed. JD's business is booming, I mean more than we could have ever expected. He is working non stop, which is a blessing.

We never knew that thru the trial of lay off we would be so blessed in the long run. Self employment does have ups and downs, it could slow down soon, never know. He also has to maintain all of the "office" particulars, which leaves him working hours at home once he has workd hours on a job. We are steadfast in prayer about a multitude of things right now and we are trusting in God's providence to lead us thru.

The kids are growing so fast. Tyler turned 9 in may and I can't believe he will start 4th grade Monday, it just doesn't seem possible. Tanner will be in Pre K at the Ark this year and will hopefully have lots of fun. Tyler will start his 10th season of soccer and is really showing some passion and growth. Tanner will start is very first season of soccer this year and he is beyond excited. Tanner is still passionate about music and wants to ride dirt bikes, while Tyler has voiced and interest in modeling/acting. Who knew?

Will try to blog a little more often once we get back to a normal routine. Here are a couple of random pictures of our summer-Love to you all!

Fishing Fun!

Tyler Birthday

Tanner Swimming

Ty Swimming

Chief and Tanner jam session

Tanner LOVES his music!!

The boys tubing for the 1st time!

JD and I at Los Pinos winery

Tan caught a fish!

The boys playing at the spraypark.

Momma's gone crazy!

2009-06-02T16:57:00.000-07:00

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
SCREAM YELL !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! CRY SCREAM YELL CRY SCREAM YELL CRY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
DEEP BREATH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ok- I feel better now! Thanks for listening!

The Ride!

2009-05-18T21:45:00.000-07:00

I know , I know..........WOW, what a busy year. If I had time to sit down and blog I really don't even know what I would blog about. It has been a year full of a lot of changes for us. I will try to make it short and sweet. We entered the New Year wondering, hoping and praying. We are now in May, and JD's business is up and running and we are amazed at the faithfulness of our wonderful God.
God took what we thought was going to be a devastating job loss and turned it into something more than we could have ever imagined. I never knew that my husband wanted to have this kind of business or that it was even a thought. Now, a motorcycle shop with his brother, this I knew, but working for Coke after the lay you off, didn't know. Yes, he is self employed, doing contract work for Coca Cola North America, they give him the business, he orders the parts from them, does the job and they pay him. Amazing!

A long time friend and co worker approached him about it and off he went. It was been a whirlwind and we have been blessed beyond imagination. Granted, self employment has its ups and downs. But, for the first time in a long time he is happy about getting up and working everyday. I am very proud of him. He is loving being his own boss and enjoying some extra time off with the kids and I.
Besides Coke installations, he is doing some technical work for people, sound systems etc.
He has been able to do some much needed work on our sound system at FWBF.
So, for now, it is holding us. I am not worrying about next month or even next week. I really feel that God's hand is in this, and we will give us what we need when we need it, IF we need it :-)

The kids are amazing. Tyler just turned 9 and continues to surprise me everyday. He is such an intelligent, compassionate and loving young man. He loves soccer and is playing better than he ever has. He has such a bright future ahead of him. Tanner, is well Tan-man. He is still so full of life that I have a hard time keeping up with him. I know that God will use is stubbornness and persistence later in life for the good, so I am hopeful. Other than that, he makes me laugh on days when I don't feel like I can laugh anymore. JD is building a stage in Tanner's room, he is still SO crazy about music. I can already tell we have a future musician on our hands.
I feel that even in the midst of chaos we are lucky and very blessed to just be together and have each other. I would not trade it for the world, even on our worst days.

I am still working, WOW. I am busy and sometimes don't even know if I can get thru another day. It is so hard to work-even part time- and take care of a family. I take my hat off to all working moms- because we do work 2 jobs, well actually 3! It is exhausting- yet rewarding, painful- yet full of life lessons. I love my church and and can only hope that God will give me the strength to keep doing what I am doing. I am so proud of all my kiddos there and love seeing their smiling faces every week. I feel that in planning these lessons every week, I am growing with God in a way I never have.

Summer is approaching, this will be a whole new hurtle to jump. Hopefully we will make it.
Please pray for our health, happiness and safety and we will do the same for you.
I will try to post a little more often !!!

Happy Easter Carson and Calleigh!

2009-04-12T15:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter Carson and Calleigh. We missed you at our Easter egg hunt.

We love you and can't wait to see you in July.

Love, Tanner, Tyler adn Anika

Yes, we are still alive !!!

2009-03-03T09:17:00.000-08:00

Just in case any of you are out there wondering if I have dropped off the face of the earth. I have been meaning to post, but frankly dont have time. Here is a list of what is keeping us busy; indoor soccer, outdoor soccer, Destination Imagination, school, school projects, PTO meetings, Church, work, JD setting up his business, kids, family in town, funerals, volunteering,
kids, working on yearbook etc etc etc... Now, I am not telling you all of this as to say look what all we do... :) I am merely wanting you to know that I want to blog so bad, but I have been extremely busy. Along with being busy, comes being extremely exhausted, which sucks!
Things have started dying down and I will update soon with all of our new exciting news!

Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday!

2008-12-28T13:26:00.000-08:00

We had a very busy week! On Christmas eve we went to JD's parents to have Christmas with his family. It was so great to see Michael,Andi and the kids and get to spend time with them. Ma and Aunt Jiffer wrote and directed the "Christmas production". We have one every year, the kids always do some sort of play or song. It was so funny this year, all about pigs, mainly a rocker biker pig.
On Christmas day we stayed home and opened presents. The boys got a lot of cool stuff and had a blast hanging out and just playing with their new toys.
We went to my Mom's on the 26Th to do Christmas with that side of the family. Of course the week ended with lots of presents, TOO MANY presents. Sometimes I am almost embarrassed by the amount of stuff our kids receive over the holidays. I honestly cant tell you where I am going to put it all. We are very blessed and I am glad that they have such wonderful family, that are so loving and giving.

Saturday we ended the week with an early Birthday party for Tanner. His Birthday is January 5, but we wanted to celebrate with all the family that was in town, instead of waiting.
So, of course he got more stuff.... I am not sure the poor Boy even knows what all he got for Christmas and Birthday. I am hoping I can hide a few things and pull them out over the next few months so he gets to enjoy all of it.

I tried to remind the kids, as always, that Christmas is not all about what they want and what they get. I want them to always remember that the only reason we celebrate Christmas is because our Savior, Jesus Christ was given to us as a gift. God gave him life on that day, only to eventually send him to die on the cross for our sins. We have the most amazing gift anyone could ever ask for, Jesus and eternal life. I hope you all had a wonderful holiday and that you all feel as blessed as we do now, to have been given the best gift ever!

I was drunk the day my momma got out of prison..........

2008-12-11T14:52:00.000-08:00

Do you ever feel like you are smack dab in the middle of a bad country song. Like seriously, can one more thing not go my way. I am glad we don't have a dog, because he would have died!

Part 1- Well for those of you who don't know, JD was told on Dec 3rd, that he no longer has a job as of December 19. Wow, after 15 years..... what a great American company, really looking out for it's people, THE WEEK BEFORE CHRISTMAS! We are both frustrated, angry at times and concerned. However we are not worried because we know that God has bigger and better plans for us. I hate that we cant take a peek into His plan book or catch one of His signals. No, for now we just have to sit and wait and trust. We are seeking God's clarity and guidance as to the next chapter in our lives.

and I went to pick her up in the rain.... before I could get to the station in my pick up truck, I got run over by a $%*& ol train......

Part2- So, the second part of the song is that three days later, on Dec 6Th, I was involved in a car incident! Yes, I am calling it an incident. We (the other driver and I) were not hurt and I was alone so the kids were in no danger , for that I am very thankful. My car is actually pretty banged up for the way the accident happened. It was poor little high school girl, who was hysterical and very apologetic that she didn't see me. It has been over a week and the insurance company is still trying to determine liability. OK, there was a police report, the police stated it was her fault, how much more do you want. So although it doesn't look as bad as it is, is not drive able, it sits and sits and waits. The side view mirror was shattered and broke out, the running board is bent down, the driver door wont open, the back door will only open so far and she hit the entire side so front to back is dented and scratched. The back tire was hit also, so I wasn't sure it wasn't damaged. I did have to go get a rental because I have to work and I have kids to transport. Also, as of Friday we will be a one car family since JD's is a company car.

I am hoping we are done for now, with living out the country songs. I could go the rest of my life without another one. Yes I know it could always be worse and I am very glad it is not ! We are alive, breathing and for the most part healthy, so for that we are thankful. I am hoping that 2009 is a year of good and positive changes for us. I rest in the fact that we have a Faithful and Loving God that will protect us. A God that promises, not that there WONT be hard times, but that there WILL be, but He will see us through them.

I hope that 2009 is also filled with everything you desire,

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Things I learned this week...........

2008-11-21T08:28:00.000-08:00

1. Being sick for 5 days and having a 3 year old sick for 5 days with you, IS NOT FUN!
2. There is not enough to do in 1 house for 5 days straight, with a 3 year old while you are sick.
3. A 103.7 fever is scary, no matter what the Dr. says.
4. Rapid strep test can be negative if it is just starting
5. Dr.'s aren't always right :-)
6. You can have strep throat, a stomach virus and a bad cold all at once.
7. Kids can have a sinus infection, viral infection and a stomach virus all at once
8. One can never have enough pull ups and wipes on hand when your 3 year old has water butt!
9. Water Butt, should be a symptom and a real word in the dictionary.
10. It's hard to tell your 3 year old he can only eat applesauce or crackers when he is crying
and hungry.
11. You CAN get sick of bread and crackers and have too much Sprite.
12. I have a wonderful husband that took over my job as Mom in the evenings.
13. I Thank God for Mucinex Full Force Nasal Spray, antibiotics, cough medicine and Motrin.
14. The BRAT diet sucks !
15. You actually can get tired from laying around on the couch being tired.
16. You can watch too many cartoons and soap opera's.
17. Daytime TV sucks !
18. It is hard to take care of sick little person when your whole body is in pain and you just want
to curl up in a ball do nothing.
19. Patience runs very thin when Mommy is sick and Tanner is sick but being himself :)
20. I learned to love Hot Tea
21. As much as I wanted to have a break form the world and rest... I AM DONE !!!!
22. You can get sick of the smell of Germ X and Lysol.
23. I am lucky to have good friends that prayed for me and checked on me all week.
24. Making your husband leave to go on a already planned trip for deer hunting, when he felt
so bad about leaving us, is worth it. He got a deer this morning!
25. 5 days at home makes you feel like a hermit
26. I don't understand how God knew we would have to do all of these things as a Mother and
designed us perfectly enough to handle it all. He is Amazing !

Blah Blah Blah Blah !!!!

2008-11-13T16:19:00.000-08:00

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Happy Halloween!

2008-11-01T17:17:00.000-07:00

Indiana Jones- Tyler

Batman-Tanner

GOAL !!!!

2008-10-17T11:05:00.001-07:00

Have you ever looked back at your kids pictures and thought " wow, how did they get so big so fast"? We spend so much time wishing.......... wishing they would sleep thru the night, quite the bottle, walk, eat real food, get potty trained, go to school. I think I have spent most of their life wishing stuff away, instead of wishing they would stay little or just be happy. I was going to make a post about Tyler's soccer season this year and how proud I am of of the Little Man he has become. I went to look thru his pictures and realized that this is his 10Th season to play soccer. That's about 80 games, 80- 120 hours of practice, 8 different teams indoor and outdoor, dozens of pictures, hours of videotapes, about 6 pairs of soccer cleats, dozens of victories, dozens of losses and hours of tears. Tyler is such an awesome kid, he excels at almost everything he does, he gives it all 110%. But on the flip side he wants to be perfect at everything he does and he is very hard on himself if he doesn't "succeed" at his task. But, he has learned what it means to be part of a team and he has developd some great friendships. We have also played soccer with Carson and always got our Buddy Shots done, we do miss that!

But, I think this year and this season he is finally starting to come around. He is putting his anger and frustration into his game and has improved drastically. He doesn't score every game or even every season, but he plays with honor and integrity, and great sportsmanship, that is more important that anything to me. He has gone from my little 4 year old that "chased" the ball around the field in a gaggle of kids.... to an amazingly strong and determined Soccer Player. I wouldnt have traded one Saturday morning watching him for anything. Enjoy this little trip down memory lane !

Oh, we did try T Ball one season, he didn't care for that!

We even got to play in a Hurricane !

The next David Beckham.... Nope , just Tyler Crumrine, that's all we want him to be, is Himself !! He is my MVP no matter what!

Love you buddy, you should be so proud of yourself.

Conversation with Tanner

2008-10-02T09:24:00.000-07:00

Driving Tyler and his friend to school this morning, his friend tells us there is a dead pig on the side of the road. They actually stopped an looked at it yesterday. So, curious , my kids want to also see the dead pig. I believe it was actually a wild boar, we have those in our area. I know isn't lovely, wild hog's and rat's........ So here is the conversation. By the way, Tanner's new favorite thing is, "then what happened" after everything you tell him.

Me- OK, look out your window there he is, see him in the ditch, he is black.
Tanner- why he's in the dddiiitttccchhh (tanner talk, anyone who knows him well knows this)
Me- well because he is dead
Tanner- why he's dddeeeaaadddd ?
Me- I would imagine because someone either shot him or hit him with their car
Tanner- then what happened?
Me- Well then he fell in the ditch
Tanner- then what happened?
Me- he laid there
Tanner- then what happened?
Me- then he died
Tanner- then what happened?
Me- ummmm, people drive by and look at him
Tanner- then what happened?
Me- I guess someone will clean him up
Tanner- then what will happen?
Me- I don't really know
Tanner- WHY POOR LITTLE FELLA'S DEEEEAAADDD ????

It was too cute, he had this little sad look on his face. I just cracked up when he said "poor little fella", what a sweet boy!

I THINK I SMELL A RAT!

2008-09-15T08:05:00.000-07:00

WARNING WARNING WARNING!!!
PICTURE AT END NOT FOR THE WEAK :-)

So, here is a little bit of what has been going on here over the last week. A friend of mine was having car problems while her husband was out of town so she called to see if JD could look at her car. She lives in our neighborhood and we live quite a way out of town, so I told her to take my car to town that day and not risk it with the kids. She left her car here for JD to look at and drove off in mine. JD and I concluded that it was her Catalytic Converters, because mine had broken down last year and it was acting very similar. She came back later that day dropped off my car and took hers home. Fast forward a few days when they take hers to the shop to have it checked. The mechanic looked at them and stated " No mam, this is not your catalytic converter, you have had a rat under here chewing up all the wires"
When she called me to tell me that, you can imagine my horror. "A RAT, I shouted, what do you mean". She said" well they said they see it a lot this time of year with people who don't drive their cars a lot or cars that sit outside instead of in the garage". Well I considered myself safe, neither one of those applied to me. Ironically enough that same day our garage door quit operating. When JD got home he found that there was a wire loose and fixed it. He also informed me that it wasn't loose that it had been CHEWED... excuse me, did you say chewed. Well what kind of animal can chew thru that? Well we decided that our friends RAT, must have invited himself into our garage while her car was in the driveway.
The next day a few more things were chewed, ropes , car seats. I was not happy at all , with the notion that we had a critter in the garage. JD left to go buy some Rat traps. He came home with these huge sticky things because they were all out of the neck snapper kind. I would have preferred him to be snapped, but I guess stuck would do. Let me also tell you that I did not go into the garage for that 3-4 days unless I absolutely had to. When we had to go get into the car I would open the door peer out and yell " RUN KIDS RUN, GET INTO THE CAR , GET INTO THE CAR..... NNNNOOOOOWWWW, HURRY UP HURRY UP." I got into the passenger side because things are more visible over there and all the traps were on the driver side.
When I would come home from being out, I would sit in the car and observe the area around. Did I see anything moving, did I see anything else chewed up, and then I would proceed with the same. " RUN KIDS RUN KIDS, GET INTO THE HOUSE..... NNNNOOOOOWWWWW, HURRY UP HURRY UP, OPEN THE DOOR, SHUT THE DOOR SHUT THE DOOOOORRRR"
I really don't know what I was imagining this thing to look like, but possible the size of a small dog. I did not care how big or little, I was creeped out, horrified and down right grossed out.

So, JD comes home on Thursday night and walks in the house and proclaims " Do you guys want to see what a dead rat looks like?" I was curious yet a little apprehensive about seeing this thing. I was kind of happy that this little nuisance had been taken out, I mean I was like " heck ya, let me see it, I want to see him dead". I proceeded with caution while the kids ran with reckless abandon to see this awesome sight. I had a hard time looking at it, but wanted confirmation that the sucker was dead, the kids were excited but said " oooohhhhh. poor thing"

I will warn you if stuff like this creeps you out, DON'T LOOK. I had to post it or no one would ever believe it. I had JD take the picture because I just couldn't do it.

This may not seem big to you, but in my mind it is HUGE!

I mean 10 inches from snoot to foot.... OMG !

Calling on God

2008-09-11T14:32:00.000-07:00

I did not write this, but received it in a daily email I get from http://www.crosswalk.com/. I wanted to share because I thought it was a great analogy.

A Dime in my Pocket
Karen Ehman
"Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I call to you all day long."
Psalm 86:3 (NIV)
Devotion:
Do you remember pay phones? My kids are just sure I'm ready for the senior citizen's discount when they hear me speak of them. But maybe you're one of my fellow 'old folks' and know exactly what I'm talking about. They hung on the walls at restaurants and airports; in shopping malls and at gas stations. When you needed to get a message to someone back home that the ball game was over or the outing was finished, you dug for the dime your mother (being the proper parent she was) always made sure resided in your jean's pocket. Then you reached for the receiver, slipped your other hand up to the slot, dropped the silver coin in and dialed. Soon help, or a ride, was on the way.
I used my dimes sparingly in the olden days--you know, the 1980's--reserving them only for completely necessary calls and occasional emergencies. In the course of a month, I resorted to my waiting dime only a time or two. If it was to be used, I wanted to make sure it was really worth it. If not, then it stayed conveniently tucked away in my front pocket, waiting for the day it would be called upon to come and rescue me.
Contrast this with today's cell phones and some teenagers. Oh dear, at times it appears those electronic contraptions are glued to their ears!!! These kids don't make a call once or twice a month, but once or twice a minute in some severe cases! They feel free to dial at any time, call at their convenience, and to use their 'phone a friend' lifeline at the drop of a hat. Now, least you think this is going to be a devotion that scolds these talkative teens, let me make my point clear. I actually think they are on to something!
Think with me in terms of our relationship with God. I'm afraid that often I am much more like a teen in the 80's when it comes to calling upon the Lord. I reserve my spiritual dimes for the times I really need Him, making sure it is worth the effort of prayer. (And earnest prayer is sometimes effort, you know!) When I fear I will be spiritually stranded without a ride, feel a bit scared and need someone to rush to my side, or any other such divine emergency, I call upon the Lord. Other times, sadly, I must admit my spiritual cell phone sometimes stays shut.
Instead, my prayer life should emulate the actions of the chatty teens of our current culture. I should feel free to call, text and mobile-to-mobile my Lord about any and everything and, as a result, stay constantly connected to Him throughout the course of my day. I should realize that His line is never busy, His ear never tires and He longs to connect with me more than an occasional time or two a week. I too can call (pray), text (journal), save a message (memorize Scripture) or return a message (praise Him) no matter the time or place! Oh, if only God's presence in my everyday life became as precious and desired as a teen's cell phone use addiction!
How about it, fellow phoner? Perhaps this week when we spy a cell phone, let it trigger our memory of today's key verse. Call upon the Lord. All day long. He will answer every time. No roaming charges, no busy signals and best of all, no dropped calls!

Dear Lord, please forgive me for resorting to prayer only when I need You for something. I resolve now to keep connected with You all through my day. I'll call upon You in times of need as well as when I just want to thank You or spend time with You. You are my only lifeline. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Tan Man- 1st Day of School

2008-09-04T15:05:00.001-07:00

Tanner was very excited this morning about going to school today, to stay "longer longer" That is a new term of his when he wants to do something for a long time. He walked right in like he owned the place and didn't blink an eye at me leaving. We have one of his teachers from last year that moved up, so that is a blessing. He had a great day and was sleeping hard when I went to get him. He has come so far from last year, we are so proud of him. Apparently he has a favorite girl in his class, her name is Kaley. She is all he will talk about :) I asked him the names of the other kids he said " I don't know" He only has one boy from his class last year so other than that they are all new to him. All is great in my world now ....haha :)

Which end are you?

2008-08-28T07:35:00.001-07:00

As I was doing some things round the house today I noticed a hammer. If you know Tanner at all you would know that he is absolutely fascinated with tools of any kind. So as we spot this hammer, he wants to pull it out and play with it, I am looking at it and I notice something.
Have you ever noticed that on one end a hammer "puts things together" and on the other end it "pulls things apart". How ironic is it that one item can do two drastically different things.
I was thinking about my walk with God when I looked at this hammer. On one end I have God, he is in my heart and soul, and in my walk with him I try very hard to let him "put things together".
On the other end, the enemy is working hard at "pulling things apart". I have felt like I was being Spiritually attacked for the last couple of weeks, and it is because of my unwavering Faith in God. For various reasons, late summer and early fall are a bad time for me, I tend to spiral a little. I decided this year that I wasn't going to let Satan "pull me apart". Instead I am choosing to let God "put me together"
I have also thought of it this way. In my family, do I "put things together" or "pull things apart"? I think lately I have really been trying to put things together, but when I let Satan get a hold of me, I start pulling things apart. Every time we yell at our kids or get in argument with our spouse, the enemy has won. I was asking God to show me a scripture that would speak to me and this is what I found. I pray that today you may be on the end of the hammer that "puts things together" at home, at work, with your friends and at church. I also have a new song that I am loving right now because it feels so good to sing it and let Satan know I am standing firm on the word of God. Here is a link to the video
Natalie Grant " I Will Not Be Moved" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vyEMJBhCtU8
Ephesians 6:10-11
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.

Tyler's first Day of school- 3rd Grade !

2008-08-25T08:29:00.000-07:00

Tyler was very anxious last night and began to worry about the first day of school. He usually does this every year, but is ok when he gets there. Yes I know he is just like his Mommy, but that is a good thing :) He worried and cried a little, he was worried about the work and how much harder it would be this year. I reminded him that they do not start doing work on the first day or even the first week for that matter. I also reminded him that the gradually work up to the new stuff, starting with things he did in 2nd grade. He is an awesome straight A student, but he is a perfectionist and wants to do THE BEST on everything, so if he even thinks he may not do well it worries him. I often feel bad for the worry he carries about doing THE best. I know that he was designed by God and he was designed by him perfectly in his sight , and for a reason. He is strong willed, he is a leader, he is compassionate, he is sweet , he is tenderhearted, he is a servant, and he is most of all, himself, and that is what I love about him.

I trust that God will help him adapt to this part of his personality and help him work thru it. I also reminded him that God is there with him all day to handle his worries and problems for him, so that he doesn't have to. I put a note in his lunch box, as I do everyday, but I wrote his scripture on it. It is the very first scripture he memorized at age 4, and who knew we would need this one so much for this little man. Anytime he starts to get worried or discouraged we say, I CAN... he will smile and finish the rest.

" I can do all things thru Him who gives me strength"

Philippians 4:13.

I walked him to his classroom as he requested:) He put his bag down and went straight to his desk. I asked him if I could take a picture and begrudgingly he said " yes" so I did. Then I walked over to tell him bye and asked " can I give you a hug and kiss or not" He looked at me very sweetly and said " NOT" Then he whispered " but I will give you lots of them when I get home" So Tanner and I walked out and I looked back at my sweet boy sitting at his desk looking so big. I am so very proud him !

Happy Birthday JD!

2008-08-24T14:55:00.000-07:00

JD's Birthday was actually yesterday, but since I wasn't home, we celebrated today. Tyler wanted to take daddy to Saltgrass after church for lunch because he knows that he likes steak.
So, we went and ate lunch and then Tyler and I went to the store so he could pick out a cake for JD and get some ice cream. We found a chocolate cake and got some vanilla ice cream( Tanners favorite) and mint chocolate chip( Tyler's favorite) hhmmmm I thought it was JD's Bday?

We had Looney Tunes napkins and The Incredibles cups, and the boys were so excited to see his face. Tanner kept asking where all of the people were and kept wanting to hide and surprise him.

It was a good day and the boys had such fun celebrating their daddy on his special day.

Boogie Boarding Buddies

2008-08-17T21:25:00.001-07:00

Tyler and Carson spent all day at the beach Boogie Boarding. I know that Carson loved it but wasnt sure if Tyler was going to even like it. Celeste had an extra Boogie Board, so Tyler took off with Carson and never looked back. They had a blast and were able to share something really fun and special. They are best buddies and they love to do everything together. I am so glad that we got to go visit and stay as long as we did, it was so much fun. Thank you to the Crumrine's and Cunningham's for putting up with us so long, we love you and miss you all!!

Milk in the Pantry and Peanut Butter in the Refrigerator

2008-08-12T14:22:00.000-07:00

Ok, I started writing this about 2 months ago and never posted it, so here it is !!

So, the day starts our fairly normal, actually better than normal. I have really trying to work on my patience lately, or lack thereof. Which is ironic since Jeff's sermon was about patience this last weekend. He said " Patience is............Enduring without Exploding" Wow, I had to write that one down, that his hard, I mean REALLY hard. So, we got to up and to school this morning without any major occurrences, no hissy fits, no yelling and with what I thought was great patience on my part. I even pointed out to Tyler that this morning was different, it was good. He actually said back to me " Oh, I didn't notice anything different" (hhhmmm) Anyway, I get Tanner ready, I am running a bit late but we make it. He has an end of year program at 9:15, where all the classes sing a few songs each. Long story short when they came into the auditorium he saw me, wanted to sit with me, wigged out when I told him to go on stage and then he started slapping me. I sat down to watch Tanner's class sing, with Tanner in my lap. I kept my cool and my PATIENCE, told him I was proud of him for trying. He did stay at school and I went on about my day, this is my last day of total freedom before they are both out of school. I did a few things then decided to go grocery shopping. I don't like going to Wal Mart anymore, they are to busy and I don't care for the entire atmosphere. However, I needed a lot of Non Food items, so I went. I feel like this should about a 5 part story, kind of like Colin and his Pi (read Celeste's blog), but I need closure now :)

I spent about 1 1/2 hours at Wal mart, enjoying my freedom and giggling inside while other people's children were screaming. I decide I better go checkout, I have a time frame I go by on how long it takes me to checkout, load groceries and get back to Tanner by 2:00. OK, Wal Mart , Tuesday, middle of the day, it was so busy. Every lane that I could go in with my heaping basket full of everything under the sun, was packed. I decided to pick the one with the people whom had the least amount of stuff. So, I waited..... and I waited..... and I waited ..... and I waited.

Those of you who shop at Wal Mart will probably know what I mean by the term comparison shopping. People bring ads from other stores and get the same prices at Wal mart. But it has to be the EXACT same thing and there are rules and etc. You have to have the ad, you have to have the item and you have to show each one to the cashier. Then, usually these same people are using coupons... ENDURING WITHOUT EXPLODING, ENDURING WITHOUT EXPLODING. It was getting harder and harder, I mean I was biting my tongue, how inconsiderate of them. I had been in line for 20 minutes already and the 1st "comparison shopper" wasn't done because she was questioning and arguing about the prices, there was another "comparison shopper" behind her. The other lady in front of me was getting mad, the guy behind me was getting mad, I was trying to be PATIENT :).

I finally decided that I had to leave and that I would have to shop another day. As I started walking I saw the manager. I stopped to tell him my dilemma and tried to speak without exploding. He offered to take my cart back to the cooler and hold it for me until I got Tanner and could come back to the store.

I leave.... mind you, I am on FIRE !!! I am late getting Tanner, by only a few minutes. As I am getting him he says " I need to go potty",(this is fairly new so I am excited) I say "OK, lets go" So we went into the bathroom in his class and he says " I have to poop" I say " GREAT" . He sits down and I kneel in front of him to help him point "himself" down as to avoid being sprayed, and before I know it we are both soaked. I get his bag change his clothes wipe myself off and run to the car. Mind you this is after 2, and Tyler gets out of school at 3. I drag Tanner back to the store with me, walking into Wal Mart with a 3 year old is an adventure in itself. I had forgotten something and ran with him to get it. My basket was so full that it had not a spot for Tanner. Tanner says, " I wanna walk like a big boy" Well, I have no choice in the matter unless I put him on my shoulders. Well, those of you who know sweet little Tanner know that he is very adventurous and loves to "explore". If I tried to hold his hand I could not push the cart and he would scream bloody murder. Every time I let go he ran or stopped or just disappeared.

I was quickly losing my patience.... ENDURING WITHOUT EXPLODING !! YA WHATEVER. I am trying to remember that there are video cameras and I needed to wait to beat him until I got to the car... HAHA :)

By the time we got what I needed and about 5 things Tanner had to have , we headed to check out. We checked out fairly quickly and I realized that it was almost time for Tyler to be home from school. I race to get home and my carpool friend is pulling into the drive with Tyler, WOW, good timing.
The point to the story is that when I finally got all the groceries in the house and started putting them away, I noticed something was out of place.
Instead of milk on the top shelf, there was peanut butter. I do not keep my Peanut Butter in the fridge. So I opened the pantry and what do you know. In the place where my peanut butter usually is, I find milk. There was only a little left, no biggie.

But, I found it funny and I laughed and I laughed. I thought, "wow does God have a sense of humor today". He knew that I was going to have a crappy day and he had prepared me that morning. He knew that when I got home that day I would need a good laugh and it worked.

So, next time you have one of those days, look for the peanut butter in the refrigerator and remember that God is in involved in every detail of everyday of your life !

Tan Man

2008-07-29T18:02:00.000-07:00

I love how my little boy loves his daddy and wants to imitate everything about him. He puts on JD's shoes and tries to wear his belt and proclaims " I am going to work". He picks up his little DVD player and says" I working on my computer". Or he will use his tools to work on his tractor or bike, just like daddy does. His favorite things in the world to do is mow with JD. He sits on his lap and just smiles and rides, it is so cool to him. When he is not actually mowing with JD, he pretends he is mowing and he wants to look just like daddy. When JD mows during the day he is usually wearing a sleeveless shirt, shorts , his cowboy hat (to block the sun) , his IPOD and his sunglasses.

So this was Tanner's version of being like daddy as he is riding his tricycle and "mowing" :)

And yes, Tanner has his own IPod. He absolutely loves music and I fully believe he will play some sort of musical instrument when he grows up. He will listen to his music forever and it helps to keep him occupied in the car :)

Here is a picture of Daddy and his buddy mowing together. JD always lets him mow with him even though it takes longer. I think he loves that Tanner is such a rough and tumble boy (sometimes) and that he wants to be like him. I love my boys !

????????

2008-07-07T12:58:00.000-07:00

OK, I haven't posted in a while and to tell you the truth I don't know what to post about.
I don't have anything fun or exciting going on right now. There is a lot going on in my life and around me but nothing you want to hear, believe me. Do you even just get to a point where you just don't know what to post. I mean the kids are doing great, we have had a busy summer but nothing exciting. We miss the other Crumrine's so it has been a little sad around here.
Well, actually there is one very exciting thing for me.... Tanner is potty trained !!!! HALLELUJAH, HALLELUJAH, HALLELUJAH !!!!!!!!!!!!!! It has been a work in progress and still is a little, but he is doing fantastic. Now, if I can get him to quit hitting people and torturing his brother we will be doing great.
Ok, well just wanted to let you know that we are alive. Hope to post again soon with SOMETHING !!

Wordless Wednesday!

2008-06-18T15:42:00.001-07:00

The Crumrine's and Noelle ( love her scary face)

GOD ROCKS !!!!

2 BAD NINJA DUDES

Tanner and God !

2008-05-28T15:26:00.000-07:00

Conversation between Tanner and I yesterday driving home from running errands, during a
thunderstorm ...................... ( Tanner thinks thunder is the sound of God bowling)

Tanner- " What was that, did you hear that"
Kim- "Yes I did , what do you think it was"
Tanner- " Its God and Jesus in the clouds, they are bowling"
Kim- " Yes they sure are"
Tanner- " why"
Kim- " because they love to bowl"
Tanner- "wwhhhhyyy"
Kim- " they just do"

We get home and I am trying to get Tanner to sleep for his nap...............................

Tanner- " God is STILL bowling"
Kim- " yes he is, maybe he was doing really well and wanted to play again"
Tanner" why"
Kim- " because he wanted to play, go to sleep???? "
Tanner- " mumble mumble mumble"
Kim- " what "
Tanner" I said stupid God"
Kim- " we do not say stupid and we surely don't call God that"
Tanner- " I said stupid God cause he wont stop bowling and I trying to go to sleep"
Kim- " I SAID we do not say stupid (it was kind of funny that he was mad, chuckle under
breath) or call God that, its OK he will stop just go to sleep"
Tanner- " mumble mumble mumble" ( I wonder what he said)

So I guess my explanation of thunder has backfired, because instead of Tanner not being scared of the sound, he is calling God stupid because he wont quit.

FYI- EVERYTHING is stupid to Tanner, it is his new favorite word, Stupid car, stupid bike, stupid shirt, stupid stupid, stupid plate, stupid shoe, stupid TV, stupid tractor, stupid stupidy......... PBS and Nick Jr are just about the only ones who don't include that in their shows. Everyone else in every show says it at some point about something, kind of hard to break him?????

Da Vinci, Monet, Picasso, Renoir or Van Gogh.........

2008-05-07T08:47:00.000-07:00

No, not any of the above. These paintings were done by the up and coming artist by the name of, Tanner Crumrine. Now, I have been trying to figure out what style he is using. I cannot figure out if he is using.....................

REALISM

ABSTRACT
POINTILLISM
PRIMITIVISM

EXPRESSIONISM

He always calls it painting.. " Mom, look I painted your pantry" Mom, I painted my dresser". I know you must think I never watch my child, but it is AMAZING at what he can get into in a matter of me sending an email or going to making a phone call. But, from what I can tell, we may have a great future in art ahead of us !!! Just this morning he "painted" his dump truck with yogurt, it looked clear so a picture wouldn't have done it justice. As I was preparing this blog post he managed to pull his "pull up" off while full of poop, which got on his hands, so he decided to "paint" his dresser and his guitar. No, I didn't take a picture of that one.... I think it would have also fallen under Expressionism !!!

What about the good things..................

2008-04-30T09:52:00.000-07:00

Did you ever stop and wonder how much we gripe about our kids sometimes? I mean when friends ask or we talk to our friends, it seems that sometimes it is just about "what they did" as opposed to "what they DID". Like, " he STILL isn't sleeping all night" or " he has been such a brat lately" or " he still isn't potty trained" or " he has been so defiant lately, I am going crazy" I wonder how much our kids hear us tell other people that, what we think is normal kid stuff, that just slowly chips away at their sweet little soul.
Our children are amazing and as frustrated as I get on some days, I thank God everyday for them and I feel so blessed to have healthy children, more so to even have children. I think sometimes we feel like we can't brag about them, we might hurt someones feelings or make it seem like we are trying to out do someone, or be better than other kids. Just because sometimes we want to talk about the good things, it doesnt mean we are doing it to one up somone else, or make it seem like we are better. ( well I know some people do, but not all)
I do not know why we cant just sing praises about our kids...........It is OK if my 3 year old knows the alphabet and yours doesn't, it is OK if my 2nd grader is phenomenal in school and hers doesn't do so well. In talking with JD about some issues we have had with Tyler, I realized that he IS A KID. He is going to be defiant, disrespectful and sometimes rude. Is it OK, well no, but not everything they do requires judgement.
How often are we rude, disobedient and disrespectful to our Father. I would say everyday, but yet He doesn't judge us, He loves us unconditionally and continues to extend His Grace to us no matter how much we mess up. We want our children to know that we love them no matter what they say or do, and to feel comfortable enough to mess up, knowing we will be there to pick up the pieces.
Having said all of that, I want to post a few things about Tyler that I am so proud of. He is on the front page of out school website with his Science project- The Asteroid Belt, in which he got a 100%
He is the first one in the orange shirt.
http://www.rcisd.org/
He was on the front page of the Royse City newspaper with his Destination Imagination team, he is the one holding the gun with the raccoon hat.
http://www.roysecityheraldbanner.com/homepage/images_sizedimage_115162539/resources_photoview
And last week he had a Social Studies project that required him to do a presentation about what he wanted to be when he grew up, why and how long he would have to go to school. He has talked about wanting to be a Scientist, so in researching that he decided the field he liked was Biochemistry. He got to use props, which he has so it was easy, his teacher was very impressed.

So, in honor of Tyler, who will be 8 on Friday May 2, I am so proud of him and all he has accomplished. He is such a hard worker and dedicated student, he loves school and I love that about him. I am so excited to see what God has in store for him and what he will be able to do as he continues to grow into such a wonderful little man ! We love you Tyler and we are so very proud of who you are !!!!!

It is finally done !!

2008-04-21T18:43:00.000-07:00

Well after almost 3 year long years of absolutely nothing, we finally did it. We did not do any landscaping when we built our house because it was an added cost.(bad choice) We finally decided that this year was the time to do get it done. Thanks to some wonderful friends and after 2 long days of back breaking work, we finished. It is amazing and I am so excited to sit on my front porch and look at all of the beautiful new plants and flowers . Thank you Andi, Michael, Dustin and Donelle! ( and of course JD and I) The pictures dont even do it justice.....

Bitter Sweet !

2008-04-11T12:41:00.000-07:00

Bittersweet refers to a combination of the standard tastes of sweetness and bitterness, and is often used as a metaphor for experiences which have elements of both happiness and sadness.

Well, this week has been very bittersweet for me. I found out for sure, that one of my best friends(which is my sister in law), and family are moving. I have known for quite some time that it was a possibility, but of course I was in denial. I have tried to help them get the house ready this week to put it on the market, I didn't think it would be so hard. We have been so blessed to have such great friends within our own family.
While I am very excited for Michael to have the cool job and to be going in the direction that he has wanted so badly, I am also very sad. It is really hard to be so sad yet happy at the same time. Not only is my best friend moving, but JD's best friend (his brother) and Tyler's best friend (his cousin). Tanner will also feel it, because he is very attached to all of them. So, needless to say there will be a very big void in our lives. We will not see them every Sunday morning at church smiling, singing , or playing guitar, nor will we get to have our Sunday lunches together at Taco Bueno, Dickeys or Chilis. I will not have my friend to hang out with on weekdays, to do coffee with, to do bible study with or just to call and say "hey lets go eat lunch". Nor will I have my friend that says " get out of your slump and get dressed, you and the kids meet at the pool now" !!
Tyler will not have his best friend Carson to talk to at church, to come over after church and play or to have sleepovers. JD will will not have his best friend to go to cool concerts with, ride motorcycles with, or to have him help paint or whatever else guys do together.
We will not have our rock that we call and say " hey we are on our way to the emergency room, we need you", or " I am sick and I have no bread and milk, can you bring me some"
or "we need a date night, can you watch the kids".
It is bittersweet because we love them so much and we are so close. As sad as we are, we support them 110%. I am so impressed to see that they are stepping out there and trusting God to lead them, they know this is where God wants them, their Faith is unshakable. I am excited that they are happy and that it will be a wonderful new world for them, a great adventure. They get to live in sunny California, where there are beautiful flowers, mountains, beaches, Disneyland and etc. But, it is like Tyler asked me last week, "but Mom, how can I be happy for them when I am so sad"?
So, I figured now that the cat is out of the bag , I will blog about it. I have to write it down somewhere, just to get it out. I think that I have almost run out of tears this week. Although I am sure I will replenish in time to start over next week. Please say a prayer for Micheal, Andi and especially the kids, that this transition will go as easy as possible. Also pray for everyone to have a safe trip as we move furniture, drive and fly to get there. Oh and dont forget me...... please pray that I can continue to support my friend in a positive way, and that God gives me the strength I need to be here without them !!!!
There was onr positive aspect to this week, watch for next post.

PS- pray that their house in Rockwall sells and QUICK !

What did you do today??

2008-04-02T07:38:00.000-07:00

This post is inspired by my 4 year old niece Calleigh. I get the privilege of going to eat lunch with Calleigh and Andi, every now and then, which I LOVE !! :) As we are sitting and eating, Calleigh always starts with " So, Aunt Kimmy what did you do today"? Then we have to go around the table and all tell what we have done so far today. Of course we usually end up back at Calleigh, sometimes a few times, and sometimes even Myrtle ( her stuffed bunny)
Here it is, and after my list I will get to my reasoning behind this post.
Get Tyler up for school
Get Tyler fed and dressed for school
Drive Tyler to school
Drive back home with Tanner SCREAMING in the backseat "I WANT DONUTS, I WANT DONUTS"
Get home and pour BIG cup of coffee
Feed Tanner
Tanner watches Mickey Mouse Clubhouse
Check Emails
Tanner wants to Color, so we sit and we color, (doesnt last long)
We play letters and alphabet ( leapfrog letters magnet, from Celeste I believe)
I pour a bowl of cereal
Tanner wants to play playdoh, I eat and he plays
Tanner watches Handy Manney while palying play doh
I finish eating and get up to move on with the daily activities
I get an IM, respond to that and go back to the kitchen
Tanner is done with playdoh
Tanner wants to play his drums, he proceeds with that
I start putting up laundry, 3-4 loads that I washed on Sunday, I KNOW !!!
Get Tanners clothes put up, he is done with Drums
We go to Tylers room, I put up clothes, clean off his desk, pick up some misc. items
Tanner wants to play a game, he "plays" Aggrivation and Connect Four
We leave Tylers room, against Tanners will
I start a new load of laundry
Tanner wants to eat again, He says " I want Angel Cake" (angel food cake) I say no, he screams
I tell him he can act like a big boy or he can go to time out. He straightems up and settles for yogurt
I find Curious George on TV, hasnt seen TV show, may keep his attention, YEAH he likes
I start unloading the dishwasher, Tanner comes and wants to help, he gets out 3 dishes for every one that he puts up, I send him away
I finish unloading and reload
I go and clean off the crumbs and etc from the table
We read a book
Tanner is now watching Clifford ( really he doesnt watch that much TV, he leaves and plays :)
Tanner spills his yogurt, I clean it up and that is when I feel it.........................................
Ok, well we were productive, it MUST be time for lunch and nap, sigh !!! So with a smile I look at the clock and my smile slowly fades. 9:20am. HOW CAN IT ONLY BE 9:20, SERIOUSLY, YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME.
At that moment I was either going to cry or laugh hysterically. So I decided to put it out there to all of you. Ok, what do you do at this point, it is to late to get ready and go anywhere and be back for nap. It is way to early to take a nap, we have colored, done play doh, books, drums, TV etc etc. Luckily, Super WHY came on TV, which Tanner loves, so right now he is watching that while playing his drums. Very shortly he will lose interest, as he is not one to sit at one activity for long. What do I do, how can I keep his attention, how can I keep him busy and out of trouble and stay sane... hehehe Sometimes I feel more like a Day Laborer, than a Stay at Home Mom. I mean have you ever really thought about those words. It really implies that we do nothing but stay at home and we happen to be a mom. We should come up with a better job description. I think they put our job duties (moms) in salary.com at one time and if we actually got paid to do what everything we do in a "work"day, we would make somewhere around $138,000.00 a year. I would have to agree with that, wouldnt you ??

Throwback Thursday

2008-03-27T10:44:00.000-07:00

Well, I didnt have anything real exciting to write about today. There has been a lot going on with us and around us, but either I really cant talk about it or you really dont want to hear about it :) So, while looking thru pictures and somewhat being inspired by Celeste posting a baby pic of Colin, I decided to do Throwback Thursday. I wanted to post a few pics of the boys that have been some favorite's of mine over the last couple of years. Enjoy !!

TYLER 4 YEARS OLD(in middle) - I GUESS HE WAS PRAYING

THAT SOMEONE WOULD KICK THE BALL TO HIM?

TANNER 1 YEAR OLD- I LOVE THIS PICTURE, HE WAS

SO CUTE IN HIS DOC BAND !

JD Blogs.....

2008-02-25T19:16:00.000-08:00

I have decided that for me, blogging is sorta like fashion. I am never really quite sure that it works for me, and I am always certain that I will look ridiculous. Nevertheless....

I returned Friday from a week-long trip to Denver. I was apparently missed by my kids. I am sure that Kim missed me as well, but the kids were definitely more giddy than she was at my return. Anyway, while saying goodnight to Tyler tonight, I picked him up and gave him a big bear-hug.

Tyler: "Dad, I am so glad that you are home."

JD: "Thanks, buddy! It's good to be wanted!"

Tyler: "But, not by the police."

JD: "Good point. Goodnight son."

JOY

2008-02-25T10:03:00.000-08:00

A morning in the life of a Joy filled 3 year old
So, I tried to catch up on some of my Bible Study this morning while Tanner just ran around and played. Here is the what I found ......................

I want to have a picnic I just lookin for sumpin

I want to play dominos

(also notice where Tanner "drums" on my table with his fork at dinner)

This box looks like fun I want to play drums for a while

Didn't ask, don't know ?????

I want Noodles for lunch !!

I am ready for my nap ! (yes he said this) woohoo :)

As he was doing this I was finishing up my Bible Study chapter on JOY..... Here is what it says. The Greek word for Joy is Chara. Chara is the most common word translated Joy in the English New Testament. It means "joy, rejoicing, gladness- enjoyment, bliss" In many ways, Chara means to celebrate. I think that Tanner was living by the fruit of the spirit his morning, what a wonderful gift God gives us ...... JOY !!!! True Chara !!

I'M INVISIBLE

2008-02-15T06:35:00.000-08:00

I did not write this story, but received it as an email a few months ago, from a good friend. I saved it because I often go back and read it when I am feeling defeated. Who knows if it is a true story, probably not. But it is inspiring and it does make me feel like I am doing good even if God is the only who sees me. This is for all of you Mom's that feel like I do on many days, and those of you who do will know, especially after reading this. It is long, but worth it, please read!

I'm invisible.....
It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, "Can't you see I'm on the phone?" Obviously not. No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all. I'm invisible.
Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this? Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, "What time is it?" I'm a satellite guide to answer, "What number is the Disney Channel?" I'm a car to order, "Pick me up right around 5:30, please." I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude - but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going . she's going . she's gone!
One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England. Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself as I looked down at my out-of-style dress; it was the only thing I could find that was clean. My unwashed hair was pulled up in a banana clip and I was afraid I could actually smell peanut butter in it. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, "I brought you this." It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe. I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: "To Charlotte, with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees."
In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work: No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit. The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything. A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, "Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it." And the workman replied, "Because God sees."
I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, "I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no sickness you've treated, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become."
At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn pride. I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on. The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.
When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, "My mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand- bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table." That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add, "You're gonna love it there."
As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women.

Toxic Memories

2008-02-13T08:24:00.001-08:00

Well, I dont know whether to be proud or sad. Tyler has decided lately that he likes writing songs. He has always been interested in music, but definitely not like Tanner. He has an electric guitar and plays it often and would like to take lessons. Well, he came home from school yesterday and said "Mom, I wrote a new song" I said " you did, wow, well let me read it"

I will have to tell you that as sad as the song made me , I thought to myself, "wow, how creative and deep is this, where did this come from"? It almost sounds more like a poem to me? Oh, and he doesnt really write a whole song...... So here it is, Enjoy !!

Toxic Memories

Toxic memories fly by like the wind on a roller coaster ride

toxic old memories,

when you look up in the sky you can almost remember good times

Toxic old memories fly by like the wind on a roller coaster ride

Toxic old memories, toxic old memories, toxic old memories.

Can you believe that this came from a 7 year old, I am just really amazed at my sweet little boy.

Crumrine House Rules

2008-02-12T13:08:00.000-08:00

How many times a day do we tell our children to be nice, respectful, honest, dont hit your brother( or sister), we dont say that word, we have to love each other, quit arguing, dont hit your brother just because he hit you. How many times a day do we kick ourselves because we werent as patient, loving, kind, peaceful, or as gentle as we should be or that we had no self control. Andi and I are doing a Beth Moore bible study every Tuesday, " Living Beyond Yourself" , Exploring The Fruit of the Spirit. I will tell you that I LOVE Beth Moore, but I have to be in the mood to really do some homeowork when we start. I was pretty down when we started, just dreading all of the work. I will have to say to you that four weeks into it now, I am amazed. I am amazed at what I am learning, I am amazed at what I am teaching my children and I am mostly amazed at the slow transformation of ME !! I have never been so excited to sit down with my workbook and bible, as I have been the last three weeks. I cant wait to see what the next video, workbook page or scripture says to me. I know with all of my heart that it is not me doing this work, it is definitely the Holy Spirit working thru me and working on me. I came across a passage in 1Peter, in week 2, that kind of made me have a lightbulb moment. I thought "well how perfect is that, there you have it". We try to make up "the house rules" well we always seem to change them, or leave something really important out. Of course the kids think we are just being mean by having all these rules. So, I see this passage and immediately thought, "this needs to be our house rules" How much more perfect can you get than this.( and for the kids to know that these are Gods rules, not just ours) So here it is......

CRUMRINE HOUSE RULES

Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another, be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.
Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. For,
“Whoever would love life and
see good days, must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech.
He must turn from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it.
For the eyes of the Lord are in the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
1Peter 3:8-12

LITTLE DRUMMERBOY!

2008-01-25T08:17:00.001-08:00

HAPPY 3rd BIRTHDAY TANNER!!!!

I can't believe that my baby is already 3, it just doesn't seem possible. He has grown into such a wonderful, and loving, little man. It is fun to see how his little personality is developing. He has loved music since he was a baby, and I really didn't know how much until recently. He truly has a PASSION for music and loves playing drums or guitar where ever we go. I believe that he will continue to love music and that God has given him an amazing gift.

Tanner's birthday was on the 5Th but we usually hold off a few weeks to recover from Christmas. We had his party last weekend and he got to celebrate with some friends and family. He wanted a tractor party, so I found some really cute John Deere party stuff, he loved it. We really enjoyed visiting with our friends,

but wish that all of our friends could have been here. He got a new ride on tractor from us, my parents and my grandparents. He also got some new tools, shopping basket, remote control cars and a Diego Rescue Pack and more. I will tell you that this child has MORE than he could ask for, he is truly spoiled!! We received a present from Colin that had to be his highlight. Celeste ordered him a shirt that says "Little Drummerboy" which is perfect because that is what we call him around the house. But the most amazing little thing was this practice drum pad and a set of sticks.(see picture) OH MY GOODNESS... I couldnt have asked for anything more perfect. He got some drums for Christmas, but he wants to carry them to different rooms and in the car. So this amazing little drum pad ( he calls it his Pad Drum) can be carried anywhere. Now, Celeste did mention something about QUIET drumming, well unfortunately that doesn't exsist with Tanner. Nonetheless, he still loves it and so do we. We can take it everywhere we go ! Thank you to everyone who came and to everyone who bought Tanner a gift, it was all too much. We miss those of you who couldn't be here and hope to see you all soon!

I have an image of what I consider Tanner as a Drummer... If I can get it in here I will! SEE TOP OF POST

2007-12-27T14:59:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

As you can see Tanner fiinally got his first set of drums for Christmas. I will tell you that he could have received nothing else what so ever, and been perfectly happy. I have NEVER seen a child so excited about what Santa brought him. Santa always gets the credit for the good gifts..haha. Tyler got an IPOD Shuffle and an I Tunes Card from Santa, so he was equally excited.

We had a great Christmas and the boys here so happy about all of their gifts, it was fun to watch them open them, one by one. We got to go to church on Christmas Eve, which was a first, we are usually busy. We did all of the family stuff early this year for different reasons, So this year we had Christmas Eve and Day all to ourselves, with no where to go or be. It was relaxing but I think we missed having any family around. We miss all of our friends and family that are not here to celebrate with us and we wich you all a Happy and Healthy New Year !

PS- we already have to buy a new cymbal for the drum set ( it was a little flimsy to begin with)

2007-12-11T07:43:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving !!!( better late than never)
know, I am little behind, but I have been busy. Really, I have been busy! If we aren't having a party, going to a party or going to the DR. with a sick kid, then it is not a normal day. We have all been sick almost everyday, with something or another, since the week before Thanksgiving. We went to Missouri for Thanksgiving and stayed for the whole week. It was fun, we got to see friends and family, we got to see snow, although it did not stick. We spent some time with my grandfather who has bone cancer, so that was probably the most memorable time. The kids did really well for a 12 hour car trip, I was very impressed. JD got to go Quail and Pheasant hunting, that was probably his highlight.

Now it is December and Christmas is approaching, where has this year gone. Today actually happens to be my Bday, I only knew because of a training class that was scheduled for today. As I was talking to my dear friend Celeste, when she called me today and realized I was 35, she said " oh good, you hit the hump. I said back to her " oh good, now I know what is making feel like @#$%^&" Now I have a reason for how I feel, its the " hump". OK, short update on the kids....they are as crazy as ever. Tanner has decided that he doesn't want to go to bed at night ( AGAIN) so that is a battle. However, we took away his drumsticks for one day and that seemed to get his attention, let's see how long that works. Tyler is doing good, not much to update on that. He got Strep throat at the end of Thanksgiving break and missed 2 days of school when we got back. JD did not win the weight loss contest at work, but he did lose 30 pounds, so that was better that any amount of money. I will leave this short as I am sure I will update again soon. I have not had time to do Christmas cards and I may never get the time, so for those of you who are reading this Merry Christmas !!!

Happy Halloween

2007-11-04T12:38:00.000-08:00

I know I have not posted in a while.......( see last post) I do not know where the time goes, I look up and a whole month is gone. Either I am going crazy or I am getting old, well maybe both! So what is new, not a whole lot. Here are the Halloween pics, Tyler was Sly Cooper ( a video game character) and Tanner was of course Spiderman ( he WOULD NOT wear the mask. ) They had a blast trick or treating, Tanner csught on real quick. We are just staying busy with everything under the sun. Tyler is doing amazing in school, we are so proud of him. He has recently been selected to participate in a UIL competition for story writing. Apparently he was writing some pretty cool stories at school, and won first place in his class. Now he is in a group of 2ND graders that will get together every week and they have to write a story based on a picture they are shown. If one of his stories gets picked it goes to competition in December. He is also in a activity called Destination Imagination (Destination Imagination is a community-based, school-friendly program that builds participants' creativity, problem solving, and teamwork in enjoyable and meaningful ways. Teams of five to seven members work together to apply creativity, critical thinking and their particular talents to solve a Team Challenge.) They will meet weekly and go to competition in March to present the solution to the challenge they were given. He is an absolutely amazing little man, I am just in awe of him . Tanner is doing AWESOME in school ( thank for your prayers). He loves going and talks about it all the time.

I cant believe that the Holiday season is among us, it is to early. We will be going to Missouri for Thanksgiving, but staying home for Christmas. I know that I say things are crazy and believe me they are, but its OK. I am really tryying to teach myself to love and embrace these times with the kids, crazy or not, because I feel very blessed to be here and to have 2 healthy children. It is so hard to be a parent, to wonder if you are doing the right thing sometimes. I know that God will equip us with what we need, if we let him. That is the problem, giving up that control........that is hard to do !! There is a song we have been singing at church called

" Remedy", it really hits home with me. It is an awesome song, you should all try to listen to it, it is by David Crowder Band. Well, I hope it wont be so long until I post again, Hahaha !!!

Is it always going to be this crazy ???

2007-09-19T06:31:00.000-07:00

Do you ever think to yourself........ Is it always going to be this crazy ? Are my children ALWAYS going to fight like this, are they always going to whine and complain like this. I mean really, how long can they go on and on!!!! Is getting ready to go ANYWHERE, always going to require nothing short of a small miracle? Are we always going to argue about who wants to eat, what they want to eat, where they want to eat or how they are going to eat said food.
Is it just a requirement that when one of them decides to go to bed without a fight, or actually sleep ALL night, that the other one decides to do exactly the opposite. Why is it that when you sit them as far apart as possible in the car, one of them can always manage to get a pinkie finger to touch the other one. Do we really have to bribe them every time we want them to be quiet or do something good. Did our parents give us a piece of candy or sticker every time we went pee pee on the potty, or sat quietly in the shopping cart. Why is it that our kids can actually say to us " get me a drink" "gimme the remote control" OR " NO " What have we done to them to make them feel so entitled and arrogant enough to act like stinking brats!!! Yes, I said it, don't act surprised and don't tell me that your kids do not act like brats sometimes. Now, I will have to add that this is not always the case, my kids have been taught manners since they could breathe, but that doesn't mean that they always use them. Actually, I think the older they get, the further to the back of the brain they get pushed, no matter how much you remind them.
My point in all of this is....... What do we do now ??? How do we keep the peace and stay happy in such a sinister, crazy world that does nothing but make us want to just give up sometimes !!!

2007-09-10T11:27:00.000-07:00

TANNER'S FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL!!!! OK, so obviously you can tell how happy he is at home. He was so excited to put his backpack ( or as he says pack pack) on and hold his lunchbox. But once we got there his little smile was gone. He did really well all the way there and as we walked further down the hall towards his class he started to protest again. I did not want this to be a repeat of Meet the Teacher. He screamed and cried , hit at me ( mot mean) and pulled at my hair. I know it sounds awful, but he was scared and was telling me about it. He cried hysterically the whole time he was in there, which was about 15 minutes. So, we get to his class and he whimpered a little, but not to bad. He would NOT put his backpack and lunchbox down, to permanent for him I guess. Every mother of every child was there and almost all of the kids were not happy to be there. I stayed to try and comfort him for a few minutes. They decided to put Veggie Tales on , which was a God send and they gave him a snack. I went ahead and left, and from the hallway I would hear a faint cry along with Mommy, Mommy. I stayed there for a few more minutes and then I left. He is my second child so this is a bit easier for me. I heard that the director had to come in and finally kick the other mommies out. I arrived back at the school at 2 to find Tanner waking from his nap and HAPPY !!!! I was so proud of him and the teacher said he did really good. She said that once all the moms left that they all calmed down and had a great day. She also instructed the moms that Tuesday we will be leaving them at the door and we will not be able to come in with them. I totally agree with that ! So, thank you all for your prayers, it was great. Let us hope and pray that it will continue to be great for him !

2007-08-28T11:24:00.000-07:00

Tyler's first day of 2ND grade

OK, I know that we haven't posted in a while so here is a little update. Tyler started 2ND grade on Monday and seems to be happy with his new school. It was hard since they re-zoned us and Tyler wasn't excited about changing schools again. But, he met up with a lot of friends that he knew from Kindergarten and First grade, so that made him feel better. He has an amazing teacher, God really did pick just the right one for him. We are very excited about this year and cannot wait to see what he will learn and accomplish in 2ND grade. I promise I will get back on track with posting, maybe I will have more time now. Tanner will start MDO next Thursday, so keep him in your prayers. I am not sure how he will like me leaving him in a strange place. But, I have heard nothing but excellent things about this school, so we are excited.

You Might be a Redneck if................

2007-07-24T10:53:00.000-07:00

.................. you're fancy new set of drums is a pair of plastic Tupperware bowls. Well, what do you expect, we do live in the country. It is a fairly new brand of drums I am sure you have not heard of them yet. For now this is what Tanner has chosen ( well with my help, because pots and pans were to loud) to use as his drum set. He still loves his dumkicks and carries them with him everywhere he goes. Tyler is jamming on his guitar and giving that classic Rock N Roll look :) Some of you will laugh at this next thing, most of you wont know what the heck I am talking about. As we are sitting last night watching the CMA Country Music festival, Tanner proceeded to get his dumkicks and "drums" to play along with the music. Tanner is however NOT a country music fan, so he looks at us and says "No like it" and then said "hear Johnny Seargant"?? Well, we had to break it to him that the people on TV did not know this song and he was so sad. I think it is rather funny that his songs of choice right now are sung by Monte Rose (Johnny Seargant), JD Cunningham ( Why, Georgia Why) and Weird Al Yankovic ( Tanner calls it "The Pizza Song") Well, he does also like Brother Cane, Chris Daughtry and Nickelback. At any rate I think we definitely have a future musician here and I couldn't be happier. Besides it is much safer that race car driving.

By the way, he is feeling better and on the road to a full recovery !!!

Finally Free!

2007-07-19T20:25:00.000-07:00

OK, I don't have anything really exciting this week except to say that we finally have a break from activities. We have been going non stop all summer and I am ready to chill, at least I think :) I always say I want to be at home and then we spend a day at home and I am ready to LEAVE! I am exhausted all the time and sometimes don't feel like I can do one more thing, but I do. Tyler had his first indoor soccer game tonight and really seemed to like it. It sure is a change from what we used to play, but a good change I believe. Of course they did not win, but they really played a good game. Tanner got his first set of real drumsticks yesterday and has barely put them down, he calls them "dumkicks" I took him to Guitar Center and you would have thought we were at Toys R Us the way his face lit up, it was great. I will post a pic as soon as I get one of him with them. For now, I just need him to sleep all night......YUCK !! I am Staging a house tomorrow, YEAH, that's good news. I am ready to get this business rolling so that I can work while Tanner is in MDO this fall. Please pray for me and this business, I do really want it to work. Well, bye for now, I have to go sleep while Tanner is actually asleep.

Poison Control...AGAIN !!!!

2007-07-13T13:40:00.000-07:00

Yes, you read it.... that was our excitement for the day. You know, Tyler is 7 years old and I never had to call Poison Control because of anything he had gotten into. Tanner, on the other hand is 2 1/2 and today was the 4Th time I have had to call Poison Control. I made the mistake of going to brush my teeth and get dressed, and left Tanner alone for a few minutes. I knew when I walked out of the room and it was so quiet that something wasn't right. I knew he was in his room, so I entered to find him standing on the rocking chair eating Triple Paste Medicated Ointment, for diaper rash. His dresser, hands, and mouth were covered and he was saying " mmmmmm, good". So, I immediately turned the bottle over and read the precautions that said " Keep out of reach of children" ( my first mistake). If swallowed, get medical help or contact Poison Control right away. OK, the phrasing that they chose to put on this bottle, needless to say had me a bit worried.JD was at Six Flags with Tyler and I am thinking we are going to have to go to the hospital......... So, as I dialed the number, I was thinking "oh my, I hope they don't have record of the other 3 times I have called"haha Well, needless to say the guy was very nice and just said to give him a drink to rinse his mouth, he also said that the more he ate the more upset his stomach will be. I guess, we will see as the day goes, and how much diarrhea I have to clean, as to how much he actually ingested. I wish I had a picture of it, but I was actually worried to the point this time, that I didn't run for the camera. I am wondering if he thinks there is a problem with the dresser, because he has covered it in Vaseline, Ointment(twice) and powder.
Tanner is still not sleeping all night, the one night was a fluke or something ! So, prayers for sleep, for all of us would be good right now. I have hidden all of the things that he can get into, but I am sure he will find something, he always does :)

I think I can, I think I can !!

2007-07-08T13:30:00.000-07:00

Well, this is the most recent "family circus" picture that we have , so I thought I would share. This was on our first real family vacation to Sea World in March.

OK, After talking to Kitty last night, she told me how to post a picture and I did it, YEAH !! It only took me like 20 minutes, but thats ok. I am getting into the groove.

On a good note Tanner finally slept in HIS bed ALL night last night without waking up even once. OK, so I know I am jinxing things now by bragging but I had to share. Keep your fingers crossed that we will have many more blissful nights of slumber :)

What the $%^& am I doing !!!

2007-07-05T14:15:00.000-07:00

Ok, this is why I havent done this yet.... I am still trying to figure out how to set up this stupid thing. So here is my first post, its not exciting nor is it even interesting. Maybe if I can figure this thing out I will be back to post more...... I am not A Crafty Pig, I have no Imagination and even better I do not have a cool name from a cool song etc etc etc, some of you will get all of that. But, I do however want to keep in touch with my friends that seem to be moving away faster than I can blink, and the friends and family that already live far away. Hope this all doesnt look to crazy and I will try to make some changes soon!!