Thank you...

A special thanks to those in service for our country...those who have been, those who remain, and those to come that love their country and the lives it holds before their own.

A mention of gratitude to Grandpa Butterfield and Grandpa Zajicek who served in the Army, and to my Father-in-Law who is a Marine.

May we never, ever take for granted what freedoms we are given and granted daily, not only by the military men and women who serve, but The Father Above, Who's Sovereign Hand has continued to shield and bless us beyond what we deserve. May God truly continue to Bless America.

Psalm 5:11"But let all who take refuge in You be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread Your protection over them, that those who love Your Name may rejoice in You."

Happy Birthday, Tender!

Today is Eric's birthday, and we are so happy to have him as a loving husband, devoted Daddy and Best Friend. I appreciate him for so many reasons. His willingness to take Elena to the play area at the mall so I can have some child-free shopping moments, endless coffees, cookies and long drives through the back roads of Gurnee and Kenosha for "quiet, quality fam-time", and that a moments notice he'll have a plan up his sleeve to do something fun and spontaneous "just because" are all so sweet and just a few of the many reasons why is he is so wonderful. I am proud (and awed) by his creative genius at the computer that not only reflects in his work, but also what has grown from his fingers and mind to his arms and shoulders as he puts his heart (and back) into the hard work of renovating our house to make it a beautiful, comfortable home. I appreciate his protective nature, even when sometimes I don't understand or don't agree. He usually knows best...and I'll probably get an "I told you so" for that, but honestly, it's the truth. His love, devotion, and commitment to God, that trickles down to his family, friends and all he does is an example and an encouragement to me. I am grateful, humbled, and blessed. Thank you Honey, for all you do and all you are. Happy Birthday to you! We're so glad you were born!

Beacause...

This is just funny...saw this the first time on The Soup...and I post it today because it's good for a giggle. Ever have one of those days where you feel like well...this...?!?!

http://video.yahoo.com/watch/3842279/10491600

I don't today by the way (of course it is only 10:06 am...ha!), but I have had days like that. So enjoy, smile, and may you have a great Thursday!

Here ya go!

Here's the new little man! He was apparently very bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. Everyone is home now and still doing well. Little Claire - now big sister, Claire - was singing "head, shoulders, knees and toes" to him and showing him his body parts as she sang, and tried to get him to eat french fries with her. HA!!!

Congrats, guys! Love you!!!

His name is...

Kevin Michael, 7lbs, 4oz, 20" long, born Friday at about 2:20pm ... hopefully we'll have a picture soon of this little blessing. So thrilled to have a new addition to the family. Everyone is doing well! Thank You, Lord!!!

Happy Friday

"What can I do today?"

Colossians 3:23, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men."

Romans 8:28, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

PS - yes, this is a Happy Friday installment for encouragement, but a little prayer request for my sis, Jaimie - there's going to be a new little baby boy arriving soon!!! Will have updates shortly!

Happy Mother's Day

We spent Mother's Day in Kohler...partly because "Mommy Like's" and partly because we are doing our shopping/research/narrowing-down of ideas and plans for the next stage of renovations at the Meidel House. (Insert dramatic music here) Dum, dum, dum....THE BATHROOM!!!! We looked around the design center, looked around the shops, and then let Elena run about the gardens. Eric even replicated one of our honeymoon pictures we took of him posing like the statue, only this time with Frogus. Very funny. Enjoy the pretty flowers and fun shots of Elena...she LOVED the fountain. I know...shocking, isn't it?

A special shout out to our Mommies...Pammy and Mares...two of the best Mommies in the whole world. Thanks for having us, thanks for loving us, and thanks for all you are! We love you!

Proverbs 31:28"Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:"

Encouragement for Today

Psalm 55:22 "Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall."

Philippians 4:6-7, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

May these encourage and bless your day today. Happy Friday and have a wonderful weekend!

It's Getting to Look a lot Like Spring Time!

Yes...warmer weather, blooms, fuzzy, furry critters...gotta love it! And with all that comes...CHALK DRAWINGS!!! We spotted some sidewalk art along our walk yesterday afternoon, which inspired the little artist in Elena. Low and behold, Eric, man of a million tricks up his sleeve had stashed some sidewalk chalk for such an occasion. So we backed the cars to open a nice space and provide a barrier between the art area and the street (the sidewalk is on the other side of the street). Elena had fun playing hopscotch, asking Mommy to draw different things (don't make fun!) and then coloring them in. Good times! I added a picture of our magnolia FINALLY blooming...so pretty!