The Judays: Nick, Jill and Graham

My Big Boy

2012-01-13T18:17:00.000-08:00

My big boy turned 4 months old on the 6th! What a blessing he is to us!We go to the doctor on Tuesday, so I will have his new height and weight then.Here are some info on the Grahaminator. :)Weight: Around 17 pounds I would guess Height: I would say around 23 or 24 inches.New milestones: Graham has rolled both ways now, but has NO interest in doing it anymore. He prefers just chillin' on his back instead or doing this funny crab walk wiggle. He grabs his toys on his playmat and loves his crinkle toys...and everything is completely wet with slobber. He's babbling like crazy and loves to imitate us. He will tolerate his Bumbo for about 10 minutes which helps when I am trying to make dinner or wash dishes. He is still sleeping 10-12 hours a night without waking and catnapping throughout the day. He has 2- 6oz bottles, one before bed and one when he wakes up, and then 4- 5oz bottles. We CAN'T WAIT to start cereal after our doctor appointment...Nick specifically can't wait to give him "little sips of water." This makes me laugh...of all things...water, but still cute. Still such a good baby, so happy, and lots of smiles. (Just never when the camera is out!) This week when at school he would give these huge grins at some of the ladies and then hide his face like he was embarrassed, then do it again. So cute! :) He Loves: Baby Mozart videos, His Mom and Dad (love that he loves being with Nick), being held, his bath, standing, and his Johnny Jumper.I am enjoying my time at home with him. I was suppose to go back after Christmas break but lengthened it to March 8th (Start of the last 9 weeks)for many reasons. So thankful I get to spend so much time with him! :)

Three Months Old

2011-12-06T17:20:00.001-08:00

Today is Grahamy's 3 month birthday! We have been so blessed to be his mom and dad for three whole months....and wow everyone was right, it flew by! Here's some stats about our little man.Weight: I would say about 14 or 15 pounds.Height: Last time we went to the doctor he was 22 1/2 inches.Sleeps: Graham goes to bed at 7:30 and wakes up about 7 or 7:30 each morning, eats, and then goes back to bed for an hour. Because of this he still only cat naps during the day. We are so LUCKY! :) Eats: He eats 5 ounces every three hours. :) Working up to more ounces and less feedings, but Graham enjoys eating so I am a little nervous about it. :)Movements: Graham is CONSTANTLY moving. He loves kicking and standing up with help. He also is so darn close to rolling from his back to his tummy. I swear if the wind blew he would do it, and it's so hard for us not to do it for him. What he loves: He loves his thumb and eating his hands. This makes for ALOT of slobber and wet clothes. :) Poor Chelsea tried to take his three month pictures but all she got was hands in his mouth. He also loves being held....and mom and dad are alright with that. :) What he doesn't like: Tummy time. He is not a fan. Clothing: He is wearing mostly 6 months. What his mom loves: I absolutely love how happy he is. :) He constantly smiles huge grins at his favorite people. My absolute fav is when I go in to wake him up in the morning and from his naps. I say "hey monkey" and even though his eyes are adjusting he starts smiling these huge cheesy grins. Makes my heart so happy. :) And luckily I get to spend the next three months seeing it!

This Thanksgiving...

2011-11-17T18:07:00.001-08:00

I am so thankful to be the mom of this sweet little boy! And wife to Nick. :)

I feel like I was born to be both. :)

A Day to Remember

2011-11-13T18:48:00.001-08:00

Today our little Graham was baptized! :) It was a very special day for Nick and I as we both so treasure our relationships with God. We were thrilled Meg and Joel were willing to be his godparents, and that so many people came to share in this special day.

Trey also got baptized today, so we had to have a picture of them together. :)

My Little Grahamy

2011-11-01T19:11:00.000-07:00

Can't believe that my little man will be 2 months in just a few days! Where did the time go? We have learned so much in that time, and can't seem to imagine our life without him now. We have been blessed with such a good baby! :) He eats 4 oz. every 2-3 hours, wears size 1-2 diapers, wears 0-3 month clothing, and weighs 12 pounds already! :) Hopefully I don't jinx myself but since about 5 weeks he has been sleeping 7-9 hours, wakes up to eat, and then sleeps for another 2-4 hours. We feel so blessed as we hear this is not the norm. Because of all that rest he really only takes small cat naps during the day....but we are NOT complaining. :)He is such a smiley little guy, loves his bouncer and his baths. Last week poor guy got his first cold and we were worried sick. After a frantic trip to the doctor (I'm such a first time neurotic mother)they confirmed it wasn't the typhoid just your everyday cold.:) Thank goodness,but it's still terrible watching him with that stuffy nose....can't wait till he's back to normal. :)

They are blurry because he is CONSTANTLY on the move. He's so close to rolling over. :)

Last night Graham dressed up as a pumpkin. Here is a pic of him and our favorite football, cousin Cohen. I think we are in for it with these two. :)

I can't believe it's November already. Time can slow down already. I am loving my time at home with my guys!

Our Journey to Graham

2011-09-09T18:14:00.000-07:00

What a whirlwind of a week. Here is how it began on Monday, September 5th.

I stayed home all day nursing a cold and a fever before going back to school on Wednesday. We had some family over to look at the baby's room and just sat back to relax with some Design Star on tv. Just felt so crampy and sick to my stomach. I really didn't think much of it, but called my sister to check and make sure it wasn't anything to worry about. She asked me when the pains were coming and I said about every five minutes. She said it was probably nothing but to just track them and keep her posted. So I went to bed to sleep them off...knowing I would feel better in the morning. However, at midnight they were coming even more quickly. So I called the hospital and they told me to come in.

When we got there i was still only 1 cm and after an hour of walking they sent us home because I was only in "early labor." So we got home at 5 am to head to bed. I was in such pain that I got no sleep, but go up and around to got to the doctor at noon. The ride there was agony! Such pain and so close together. When we got to the doctor she checked me and I was 6-7 cm. She told us to race to the hospital before it was too late.

So we got the hospital and everything seemed to take forever, but eventually I did get an epidural....a really excellent epidural that left me feeling NOTHING. I think they were worried that I would deliver right away so they doped me up good. Then I just rested and waited until it was time to push. Because my epidural was so good I tried my best to push but it took almost three hours. They eventually had to use suction to get him out, but it was so worth it when I saw him for the first time. We were SHOCKED it was a boy because the whole time we just had a gut feeling it was a girl. Nick was over the moon for a healthy boy! :)

We named him Graham Asher. Graham was just a name we liked and Asher because its biblical and means "happiness"...something that Nick and I both want for him. :) He has been an amazing baby and we feel so blessed. We are also so humbled but the outpouring of love for our family. The calls, texts, cards, meals, gifts, and everything else I'm forgetting has left Nick and I speechless. We (Nick, Graham, and I) are so lucky to have such wonderful people in our lives.

So keep our family of three in your prayers as we learn about each other. :)

Finishing touches

2011-09-04T17:58:00.000-07:00

Today Nick and I finished the baby's room. We are very happy with how it turned out. I think this means we are all ready for this little one to make its appearance. Everything is washed and put away, the room is ready,and my priest said a blessing for baby and I today...so besides having nerves about what changes are in store for us, we are ready. :)

Any guesses on what Baby Juday will be? :)

Blessed

2011-06-02T17:02:00.000-07:00

Today was our baby shower at school. It was a dual shower with another couple. (The Schwartz's) Nick and I are in awe of these wonderful people and the generosity they showed us! Also a huge thank you to Julie and Fran for planning it!! :)

The delicious cake

So Blessed!

The Yummy Food

All the wonderful gifts:

We got our stroller/carseat combo:

Also our baby bathtub and a tub full of things for our new little one!

Here is a 26 week picture after a long but fun day. The belly is really starting to pop out. :)

Tomorrow marks one more week of school. I think I can...I think I can... :)

20 Weeks

2011-04-25T16:28:00.000-07:00

Here is the 20 week bump. Can't believe we are half way done! Can't wait to get some sun on those bones. :)

Going to jump on the bandwagon and list some things about this pregnancy:

How far along: 20 weeks and 3 days

Heartbeat at last appointment: 144

Weight Gain: 10 pounds

Gender: Excited for it to be a surprise. :)

Cravings: Orange juice, pop, and fruit

Maternity Clothes: Holding off as long as I can. Only a few more pairs of pants that I can fit into though.

Sleep: All the time! Can't get enough sleep it seems.

Movement: I felt the baby move around 16 weeks. Not the slight bubbles everyone described, but strong, hard movements. :) This weekend the baby was going nuts when Nick and I were talking. Loved thinking he/she already knows daddy. :)

Recap: I felt so sick for about four of the five months. This month I am finally starting to feel well again. Yeah! The only thing I can complain about is this terrible metallic taste in my mouth that I have had since the beginning of pregnancy. It is driving me CRAZY! No one seems to know why I can't get rid of it. I hope it won't last the last half.

Just have to say my husband has been AMAZING! He takes care of things around the house, me, and never complains. So lucky to be going through this with him.

The Story of US

2011-02-19T08:01:00.000-08:00

I love this quote Kayla Aimee had on a recent blog post. It's also the perfect start to our last few months. :)

Since Nick and I got married every week I would go to church and pray to God that he would give us a baby when HE felt like we were ready. Whether this meant we would be older parents, or younger parents, or even adopted parents. So that takes us to January 4th.

I was just sure that when I took the test it would be negative, but to my surprise it came back PREGNANT! Well of course I had left my phone at school that day and Nick was frantically trying to contact me. So finally he calls on our home phone to ask me if I want to go to dinner with his parents at the Down Under. "Um....NO... not in the mood for pizza...Just want you to come home." "Are you okay Jill?" "Yes, just anxious for you to be home."

So he comes home and it was nothing like I had planned in years prior, where I had a wrapped gift, or some special to do before telling him.... I just blurt it out...I'm Pregnant! That night we just sat there at basically stared at each other....being excited, scared, unsure or what the future held....just staring.

The next day when he came in the door I cautiously asked him "How are you feeling?" And Nick said, " I have been praising Jesus all day! This is a miracle baby..our miracle baby!" It was just exactly what I needed to hear!

So that meant we had five weeks to keep our mouths shut before our first doctor's appointment. HARD, HARD, HARD, but so worth it! We heard the fast, little heartbeat last Friday...music to our ears! Then that night we went to have dinner with Nick's mom and dad. Sue just casually asked us what the best part of our day had been....UM...funny you should ask...it was the best day of our lives... :) They were overjoyed! :)

On our weekly Saturday night family night I gave Megan a box that I told her was the Mr. Lucky shirt I had been looking for for Cohen...but inside was a onesie that said "I'm getting a brand new baby cousin!" Lots of tears and pure happiness and I think complete shock...so lucky for family!

From there we told my mom's side and close friends. Everyone has been AMAZING! We are SO overwhelmed with the messages, texts, calls, and visits we have received since our news came out. Boy, our baby is ALREADY so lucky!

Nick and I just ask that you pray for us and our baby. We pray that God will grace us with a healthy baby and give us the strength to learn what we need to know.

Thanks again....all our love...The Juday Family :)

Recap

2011-01-04T15:48:00.000-08:00

Nick and I had a wonderful Christmas! On Christmas Eve we went to mass in Albion and then headed to Mom and Dad's for dinner.

We had a wonderful dinner and then continued the new family tradition of the homemade gifts. My mom made me this...

A puppet stage for my classroom....AWESOME! The kids are absolutely going to love it! I was so excited!!

I forgot to take pictures of everyone's gift, but they were all so good!

I also got to hang out with this little man...

Love him! :)

I also was the big winner in Emily's raffle gift. YEEEESSS!! :)

Christmas Day we all went to my mom and dad's to open gifts Christmas morning and eat breakfast, then we went to the Yeagers and then on to the Mawhorters. Busy, but such a fun day :)

The day after we celebrated with Nick's parents and sister. We had a blast! We ate lots, played games, opened gifts, and laughed tons. :)

We were reminded again how lucky we are to have such wonderful families...a luxuries many don't have.

Besides that we really just enjoyed the season and the time off!

It was hard to get up the last few days...but it was so nice to see my kiddos at school. Back to reality!

Have a great week!

A Touching Gift

2010-12-21T15:47:00.001-08:00

Finally, it's Christmas Break! I am so excited for some time to recoop and restore my energy. :)

Today was such a nice last day of school and although I received lots of nice gifts there was one that really touched my heart. It came from a young lady who has a very difficult and sad home life. She is the type of kiddo who I think about long after I leave school every night. She came in today while we were in the gym at the Christmas Sing-a-long. She came behind me at the show and gave me a huge hug around my neck. When I turned around to see who it was, I saw her grinning from ear to ear and holding out something to me. It was this.

What you can't see from the picture is that is it a dirty, old school, tarnished barrett. I told her she didnt need to get me anything and she proceeded to tell me that "I love you too much not to get you anything for Christmas." Talk about one of those special teaching moments I will never forget. With all she deals with in her life she took time to think of getting me something special ...so telling of this sweet spirit. To most this may look like nothing special...but to me its priceless and will stay with me forever so I can always remember this little girl.

I Caved...

2010-11-04T15:58:00.000-07:00

So...after a little coaxing from my hubby a few weeks ago....we decided to keep the dog. His official name is "Cooper Anderson Juday" aka Silver Fox after my TV crush :) It's actually been very fun having a dog and we are starting to get into a routine. There has been so naughtiness....and some surprise trips in the house...but he's a pretty good puppy! :) Looking rough....been that kind of week. :( Hopefully the relaxing weekend will make up for it.

Cohen's Big Day

2010-10-24T17:27:00.000-07:00

Pictures from Cohen's Baptism :)

"Give Me The Best Drink You've Got"

2010-10-11T17:11:00.000-07:00

This weekend was the annual Gallmeyer cider pressing party. What fun!! Here are some pictures from the night!

As Many of You Know...

2010-10-02T06:12:00.000-07:00

This week we found a stray dog starving to death behind our shed. Nick and I have given lots of thought to this, but have decided our house is just not the place for a bigger dog like him. In part because this is how Nick and I differ in seeing the future.

Nick's view of the future with this dog:

And my idea of what the future could hold with the dog:

Which would come true...who knows....but luckily we found a family willing to take him to a farm! So excited it all worked out. :)

It's The Final Countdown

2010-09-29T17:10:00.000-07:00

2 Days till the comeback of my favorite fall treat!
Can't wait! :)

It's An...

2010-09-18T07:59:00.000-07:00

Audi. :) Here's a boy and his new car.

Introductions

2010-09-05T11:11:00.000-07:00

It was quite the week for our family. I left school at lunchtime on Wednesday and met my family at the hospital. She didnt have Cohen until Thursday morning, so right after she had him I had to leave because I was already several hours late for work. So...I didnt get to see him or her. :( Very bummed about that. Saturday we went to the hospital to see the new family. I hope Cohen didnt mind the jeans and sweatshirt, but it was just awesome fall weather on Saturday.

Looks good huh? :)

Such a sweet baby! Can't wait to get to know him more. :)

Have You Heard...

2010-09-02T18:11:00.000-07:00

That the sweetest baby was born this morning into the Gallmeyer family? After a few long, rough days, Cohen Isaiah Luckey was born. 10 pounds 5 oz. and 21 1/2 inches. Everyone is happy and healthy. Congrats to Meg and Joel! We are so in love! :)

Monday, Monday

2010-08-02T16:17:00.000-07:00

Mix of emotions today...

This afternoon I found out that Sarah and Jared welcomed the newest member of the Mawhorter family; Tripp Geiger Shisler. He weighed a little over ten pounds and both mom and baby are healthy. :)

Secondly, this evening I met Tammi and Mary at the free teacher store in Elkhart. It was awesome! Here is all my FREE loot!

Today was a sad day for the Riddle family. Thinking and praying for them through this hard time. :(

Goodbye July

2010-08-01T11:44:00.000-07:00

This week was the annual Mawhorter cabin week. Lots of good food, fun, and memories. Here are a few pics from the week.

Lots of bocce was played.

All the kids :)

The girls

Then last night we went to celebrate Jill and Casey's wedding. Such a fun wedding. :) Here are a few family pics from the night.

Emily and Trey

A new pic for Mom's wall

My hubby and I

Warning...Gross Pictures Ahead

2010-07-30T06:36:00.000-07:00

So Nick and I have been waiting a whole year to do a detox at the Elkhart County fair. We just couldn't wait to see what kind of toxins we had in our bodies. So Wednesday we went...and boy have we been pumped. I know there are lots of skeptics...and I wouldnt say we are complete believers..but it was fun to do together. So here is a photo log of the experience.

Getting Started :)

Signing our lives away ;)

Here we go!

Nick's final product...dont think we got one of mine at the end...but trust me it was nasty!

After feeling refreshed...we checked out Lonestar. Fun times!

3 Amigas

2010-07-19T16:47:00.000-07:00

Love These Girls! :)

Florida 2010

2010-07-05T06:27:00.001-07:00

Back from Florida! Another great time with our family. I forgot to take many pictures. Here are the few that I did take. :)

Here we are getting ready for Eclipse (Thanks Em)!! :) Loved it!

2010-06-13T05:41:00.000-07:00

The first week of summer break is over. :) It was so easy to get back into my old habits of sleeping in, staying up late, and lounging around a good part of the day. I really enjoyed this week, because for the next two weeks I have a class in Fort Wayne. :(

This weekend we ran our first 5K! It was the Dave Knopp memorial run. My family will forever be grateful for all the help Dave gave us when it came to college funds. Not only that, but he was just an all round amazing man. So we planned on walking the 5K, but after a while it was easier to run than power walk, so we ran. Nick did amazing! He got 3rd in his category.

The rest of us were just proud that we finished it. After all our hard work we treated ourselves to breakfast...my favorite part! :)

Saturday night we went to Scott and Ashley's wedding. It was such a fun wedding. They are just a perfect match for each other, and we are thrilled for them. Here are a few pics from the night.

Congratulations

2010-06-02T17:34:00.000-07:00

Kindergarten Class of 2010!

The Month of May in Pictures

2010-05-20T17:22:00.000-07:00

I can't believe May is almost over!! Here are a few pics from the month. Hawaiian Day, The Indy Mini, Nick's Birthday Lunch, and our field trip yesterday.

My Barnyard Babies

2010-04-17T06:49:00.000-07:00

Only 6 more weeks with them. :(

Spring Break 2010

2010-04-11T11:08:00.000-07:00

What a great long break it has been! Here are some highlights:

As some of you know, I gave up shopping for Lent...it was a great challenge for me. I did NO shopping, not even grocery shopping (except for milk), so it really pushed me to look at how much money I spend on EXTRAS. During that time I started looking into using coupons, and decided I would give it a try. So I started clipping coupons, and I was ready when my April trip to the grocery store came. Nick came with me to be the human calculator, and sniff out the best bargains. But I guess 3 hours of coupon saving wears a boy out. :)

We both had so much fun, and loved doing it together. We decided its for sure a monthly activity we will continue, and at the end of the day we saved....$27.41!! :)

Here is the Easter Gallmeyer pic:

And Nick and I's Easter pic...both went with our fams.

So the first part of the week was dedicated to cleaning the whole Juday household...love it! And then on Wednesday afternoon Nick and I left for Minnesota. We checked out the Mall of America, ate out lots, went to the Minnesota zoo, and just enjoyed each others company. Here are some pics.

Representin' to the bald eagle. :)

Putting 26 to rest

2010-02-26T14:02:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I turned 27. I have to tell you it was the best birthday I can remember. I got to school and had a desk full of gifts and cards from my kiddos and parents. My assistant Fran had brought cookies and another girl brought this beautiful yellow cake. So nice! I told Nick before I left for work, another fantastic thing about Kindergarten is celebrating your birthday with them. They are just as excited for my birthday as I was! :) In addition to the great start, Fran did the craft with the class so I actually got to pull one kid out at a time to test them for their report card. I loved getting that time alone with them and seeing how much they are learning...that doesnt happen very often! Of course my co workers made my birthday so fun and special...love them! :) After work a group of us did our usual Tuesday/Thursday workout session at the high school. We are experimenting with weights now and of course had lots of laughs (from us and the onlookers ;)) When I got home Nick had cleaned the house and had these things waiting for me.

I know...you are jealous....I bet you wish your husband would get you baked beans for special events! Haha...its an inside joke, but Nick knows the best way to make me happy on my birthday is to save his money and not get me expensive gifts.

After cheeseburgers for dinner I watched my shows...Y and the R was paused at the perfect spot for my viewing pleasure. After lounging around for a while my mom and dad showed up with my surprise mom had emailed me about earlier. She had made cupcakes and got juice boxes for me to share with my class today. Wasnt that such an awesome thing to think of? Although we didnt have school today, I cant wait to share them with them on Monday.

All in all, it was just such a fun day. Made special by all the people I love! Thanks for all the messages, texts, emails, and cards.....I am so lucky! XOXO's

On the Brain...

2010-02-15T08:52:00.000-08:00

Happy President's Day! Here's whats on my brain right now.

1) I am excited to be an aunt! I can finally post it on my blog...got the okay from my preggo sister! Baby Luckey is due the end of August. :)

2) I love Monday's off!

3) Can't get enough of these delicious things. Give them a try.

4) Lent is going to be tough....gave up shopping! What am I thinking? :)

Jumbo Biscuit Crazy

2010-02-07T09:57:00.000-08:00

Last night we went our with our Zumba friends-- Maria, Dunia, and Jeanette
We ate a Cebolla's and then went to Crazy Pinz! :) What a fun night! :)

And better late, then never. Here is a pic from the 100th day of school. Our class and their parents outdid themselves with the projects! Love it!

Here's to the 6 to 10 inches of snow possibly coming...would love some delays.:)

A Snowy Day

2010-01-19T18:22:00.000-08:00

Recess fun!

And a few pics of what I did on a snowy day during Christmas break. Painted and decorated with a few new Christmas gifts. (Just imagine pictures in the frames. :)) I love it. :)

Slow as Molasses

2010-01-09T04:15:00.000-08:00

You aren't going to find me complaining about teaching Kindergarten very often, but this week I realized there are a few things that aren't my favorite. :)
Here they are:

Head lice...enough said.

And as any teacher knows, especially Kindergarten teachers, that boots, snowpants, scarves, gloves, coats, etc are a pain in our side. :) But I love the way they come in looking like they had the best time of their lives...so I guess its worth it.

This Christmas You Gave Me Your Heart...

2009-12-29T16:37:00.000-08:00

This year I received the most touching gift from my favorite baby sister, Emily. A few years back Emily took a class and learned how to quilt. She caught on quick and loved doing it. She made one for the class, for my mom, and for her boyfriend Trey. This summer during KIPS we were looking through a quilting book and I told her I wanted a pattern that I thought was so adorable. To a non quilters eye it looked great, but Emily kind of made a face that told me this was the mother of all quilts, skill wise. She assured me she could make it (with some help from Jennifer :), so I gave her the swatches from our furniture and our curtains. I didnt want to see it, so, I had no clue what was coming on Christmas Day. I couldnt wait for my last present of the day, and boy was I amazed!!

Isn't it the most beautiful quilt you have ever seen?? :)

I think the thing that makes it so special for me is that she spent alot of money she didnt have, came home on the weekends from college to work on it, and put so much time and energy into it. I can't say enough how much I love it, and I am so lucky to have such a good sister! Thanks and I love you Em!

Changing it Up

2009-12-27T16:34:00.000-08:00

Wednesday night KK, Emma, Megan and I met at Emma's for dinner. Emma had drawn what type of dish and a letter for dinner. It was delicious and made you think about changing up the menu. It was tons of fun and we had lots of laughs.

Nick and I had a fantastic Christmas. I would say the best Christmas I have ever had. Thursday night we went to Christmas Eve mass and then went to mom and dads for the evening. Several months ago we had decided that this year we would draw someones name and make them something for 5-10 dollars. We are not crafty people, so this really stretched us. It ended up being so much fun, and something that is a new Gallmeyer tradition. Here is how it turned out.

Dustin made Nick cookies and beer. Megan made me an awesome necklace(minus the dreamcatcher)

Joel made Amy's dog Roxy a Christmas coat and booties. Emily made Dustin jerky.

Amy made Trey a camo pillow. Mom made Emily sweatpants.

Trey made mom a cute snowman ornament. Nick made dad a sign for his shed and some motivation for target practice :)

Dad made Megan a birdhouse and I made Joel a camo tie blanket.

And the big kicker was the authentic dream catcher that Emily made and was raffling. And the winner is....

Me! haha :) Just in time, I have been having all kinds of bad dreams because of watching Paranormal State (Boy am I going to have trouble getting up next week)

On Christmas Day Nick went to his mom and dads and I went to mine. Lots of fun, and Santa was so generous :) The best gift of all was a quilt that Emily made for me. (More to come on that later.) Then we celebrated with the Yeagers and back to Albion for the Mawhorters for chop suey and the white elephant exchange. :)I made out great this year...getting 10 dollars.

And then finally on Saturday we went to Nick's mom and dads for our last Christmas. I always get bummed that Christmas is over at this point, but we had a blast. We laughed all night long! We ate lots of great food, unwrapped our gifts, and stayed up all night playing a new game called "Things" and playing Beatles Rockband. This morning we got up, ate more, hung out, and played more games. We are so blessed to have such amazing families!
Hope everyone had a blessed Christmas and you're ready for a rockin new years!

Winter Wonderland Wedding

2009-12-23T11:09:00.000-08:00

On Friday the school day flew by. My kids ROCKED their dance for the talent show, we had a wonderful party, and most importantly revealed our Secret Santas. I wish you could see how sweet they were about their gifts. They LOVED them, no matter how much they cost and were so sincerely thankful to their friends. Here is a picture of the kiddos with all their loot.

Mr. Shepherd also declared Friday "Ugly Sweater Day" at Ligonier Elementary. I didnt get a picture of everyone dressed for success, but I did get a few of us during lunch.

On Friday night we left the rehearsal dinner and there was NO snow anywhere in sight. I remember thinking how disappointed Amy would be if her wedding wasnt a white one, but when I woke up I was pleasantly surprised. TONS of snow had fallen during the night (A gift we are sure was from Grandma :)) Here are a few pics from the day.

And after the wedding a few more pics from the rest of the night.

And now its time to enjoy the rest of my break. My house is completely cleaned, all the gifts are bought and wrapped, and I have all four audiobooks for the Twilight series. I am ready to RELAX and recoop for the second half of the year.

Have a safe and joyous Christmas everyone!

Bells Will Be Ringing

2009-12-16T16:50:00.000-08:00

Busy weekend. Staff Christmas Party on Thursday, Bachelorette Party on Friday, Candy making for the wedding on Saturday, Juday Christmas Saturday night, and the Gallmeyer Christmas on Sunday. The weekend flew by, and now its almost time for Christmas break and Amy and Dustin's wedding. :) A few pics from the weekend.

Wasn't it just Halloween?

2009-11-29T17:23:00.000-08:00

We had a great long weekend. Ate WAY too much, got some great deals on Black Friday, (almost finished all our shopping), got lots done for Amy's wedding, and decorated the house for Christmas. I can't believe that in a few weeks we will be off for two whole weeks! :)

On Wednesday we had a feast in our room. Instead of stressing myself out I only invited the parents in the afternoon for "Pie with Parents." Loved it! So much better than smooshing 75 adults and children in a tiny room. :) Here are some pics from the day.

Love this kid!! :)

We're Better Together..

2009-11-10T17:00:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again...Cider Pressin' Time. This fall we have pressed cider a few times. Here are a few pics of all the fall fun. :)

One Proud Pumpkin

2009-10-25T17:36:00.000-07:00

It was a long, but good week. Thursday night we went to Nick's Boys and Girls Club Banquet. He is the incoming president for the Nappannee club, and I was so proud of him and all the ideas he has for the future of this program. :)

He also finished up football on Friday! Can't wait to have our Friday nights back! :)

On Saturday we had Amy's Pampered Chef shower. Here are a few pics from that!

** Please note that the girl in the middle, yes, one of my most dear friends tried to scam me at the shower. Unbelieveable ;)

To top off a great weekend, I dont have school on Monday or Friday this week because of Parent Teacher Conferences! LOVE IT!

Too Many Pumpkins!

2009-10-21T14:01:00.000-07:00

Our Kindergarten classes had a field trip today to a pumpkin farm. Here are some pics from it!

Oh Baby!

2009-10-17T08:14:00.000-07:00

This is what I found when I got home from work on Friday.

What I guy I have! :)

On my mind...

2009-10-06T15:23:00.000-07:00

Today was a rough day. Lots on my mind and my heart.

First of all, it has been exactly one year since we lost my Grandma Dee. I cant believe that she has been gone that long. There are so many things I miss about grandma, but mostly I miss her for my grandpa. Although so many miss her here I know that she is painfree with so many of her loved ones. Thinking of you and missing you today Grandma. :(

Also my heart is heavy for the Vice family. Last night Andy lost his life in an accident. I did not know him as well as some of the rest of my family, but what I did know about him was remarkable. I have never heard an unkind word about him. I can't stop thinking about his young family and how they are hurting.

Also for a friend's mom who is not well.

So I ask you please, if you are reading this, whether you know the families or not, please pray for their strength through these difficult times.

Don't Mind the Green Mouths

2009-09-10T17:08:00.000-07:00

Here they are! My new class of Kindergarteners minus a few spunky characters! :)

Favorite quote of the week as I take my kiddos out to the buses:

Mrs. Juday: "Goodbye Ignacio! See you tomorrow."

Ignacio: "Goodbye (thinking, thinking, thinking) Bubble butt!"

They tell me thats a character on Spongebob, but I'm not convinced that was his inspiration! HAHA.

The Fam Damily

2009-08-31T15:10:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we went to Manchester to see Emily and celebrate Meg's birthday. Here are some pics from the night. Gosh I miss that place!

More to come this week about my new class. :)

How Big Is Texas??

2009-08-05T09:35:00.000-07:00

Last week the Mawhorters took their annual trip to the cabins at Chain O' Lakes for the week. Nick and I did make it for most dinners, and of course they were delicious! This year people were paired to take one day for cleaning and all the meal makin'. You also had to pick a theme for the day. We had Proud to be an American day...I know you are thinking that is me, but it was my equally as patriotic grandma and mom that rocked that. :) We also had Spanish Revolution, Take me out to the Ballgame, and many other fun themes. Wednesday was the Juday, Luckey, Gallmeyer girls and guys day + Jennifer. Emily really wanted to do "Big Texas" so we went with it.:) Here is our menu and a naughty Emily!

A Month in Review

2009-07-28T13:07:00.000-07:00

It's been a while. :) We went to Florida over the fourth and stayed for a few weeks! Mom, Dad, Emily, Trey, Megan and Joel came with us. Here are a few pics from that.

We ate out alot, got lots of sun, and had fun showing them around Florida.

After about a week the Juday's joined us. Of course, we ate lots of good ice cream and had lots of fun playing Phase ten. :)

It took a while to get back in the swing of things once we got back, but it was so nice to be home and sleep in my own bed.

Last weekend, we attended Cromwell Days! To jumpstart the festivities we attended the Kiddie King and Queen contest. The one and only Jaci Worrell was one of the contests...and she has serious pageant skills, for example, constant smile, perfect articulation (said Nick), waving precision, and the best rendition of the ABC's I have ever heard, and as a Kindergarten teacher I have heard a few. :) She was robbed and ended up with 1st Runner Up...but we were so proud of her! :) Here is a pic of her afterwards.

Then we stayed for the band. Let's just say Cromwell outdid itself this year with bands! ;)

Saturday I went to Emma's Pampered Chef party and then Keith and Melinda's wedding. Both were so much fun! For a more indepth story of the party check out Kacina's blog. :) Here are a few pics!

This week is cabin week, so look for updates on the Mawhorter adventures soon!

Top 10 List

2009-06-23T19:04:00.000-07:00

Here are the top 10 reasons I am IN LOVE with summer! :)

10. Reading books. I forget how much I love relaxing with a good book, and having enough energy to read.
Right now I am reading:

9. Staying up late!

8. Boat rides

7. A clean house. I love the fact that my house is always clean during the summer.

6. Nightly bikes rides with my honey :)

5. Shopping. Doesnt matter whether its Walmart, Fort Wayne, Michigan City, etc. I love the fact I can go whenever I want.

4. Naps! :)

3. Sleeping in till 9

2. My pool. Nothing I love more than laying out in my pool with my Ipod.

1. Florida. On the fourth of July we are heading to Florida for a few weeks. Lucky for us, my mom and dad, Emily, Trey, and Meg and Joel are coming with us for a few days, and then the Judays will come to hang out with us the rest of the time. :) Cant wait!

Mix of Emotions

2009-06-03T18:07:00.000-07:00

Class field trip to Black Pine!

Alyssa's birthday night. Gotta love the outfits they found at Burlington!

Today I took my class bowling at the local bowling alley, pizza hut, and the recycling center. Bowling was so hilarious and Fun but as you can see, SO tiring!

Nick put up my pool tonight! I have to say I am so excited about summer, but sad to see my kiddos go!

Where does the time go?

2009-05-25T13:15:00.000-07:00

It's been a while, so here are some of highlights from the past few weeks.

Tammi, Alyssa, Julie, and I went to help the 4th graders with the Underground Railroad at Camp. Here is a picture of that chilly, but very fun night. :)

Hawaii fun in Kindergarten! :)

Beth and Tom's Going Away Party

Field Trip to the Fire Station, Owens, the public Library, and the Police Station

Mandy's Graduation Party at St. James

Dad and Em's Birthday Dinner!

Eight more days of school! Wednesday we are going on a field trip...pray for NO RAIN! :)

Rest In Peace

2009-05-06T16:45:00.000-07:00

Isn't that mouse just about the cutest thing ever?? You know what isnt cute?? A mouse inside the wall of your house!! I smelled something in our green bedroom, and went loco. After Nick assured me that only nut jobs would knock the wall out, I decided that I would try to deal with the few days that our house would smell like nastiness. I think this is so Karma though, because I just thought it was HILARIOUS when Meg and Joel had mice all over their house. But not anymore...I am a changed woman! :)

Besides that, we celebrated my hubby's 28th birthday on Tuesday.

This week we started our first Jamba class at Ligonier Elementary. (Jamba is Jill, Amy, Megan + ba) It was lots of fun and everyone got a great workout! :)

Please pray that this dang nasty smell leaves my house quickly...if not, my next post may be of a new construction project at the Juday house.

Welcome Back!

2009-04-19T17:03:00.000-07:00

It's been a while. Last time I posted we had 10 school days till Spring Break! Well, that came and went and now we are getting ready to start our second week back. Only 7 more weeks, and then school is out! :)
Here are a few highlights from the past few weeks.

SPRING BREAK! :) I had an awesome Spring Break week. I cleaned ever inch of my house and managed to fill my freezer with lots of good meals.

Easter pics with the fam:

Yesterday Amy, Emma, and I headed to Ann Arbor to become Zumba trainers. Well, we were a little disappointed in the day as a whole, but we laughed SO hard and had a amazing time. It was comperable to Bradford Woods if that tells you anything :) Here are some pics from the day.
Gotta love this classic Emma look. It made it's appearance about 100 times throughout the day! ;)

Before the storm :)

Check out Emma's blog for more indepth stories! :)

Have a great week!

Man Crush

2009-03-20T13:42:00.000-07:00

I just gotta say...I have a new man crush. :)

Too Cute!

In other news:

Every other Sunday the Mawhorters have a themed meal. This week I got to play the "kindergarten teacher card" and picked to have the theme: Round/Circle things. I gotta say that the familia really stepped up to the challenge.

Here was our menu:
- Meatball Subs on circle buns and circle cheese (Compliments of Sarah :))
- Tator tots and Onion Rings
- Blueberry Muffins
- Cookies
- Pineapple Rings
- Oreos
- Pizzas
- Grapes
- Deviled Eggs
- Scalloped Potatoes
- Chips

I love this family tradition! :)

Countdown to Spring Break: 10 school days!

Bringing It Back...

2009-03-11T16:17:00.000-07:00

I love my Crockpots. I recently came across a fellow blogger that is working towards using her crockpot everyday for a year. http://crockpot365.blogspot.com/

Love this idea. Nothing is better than knowing you dont have to cook anything when you get home. :) I found some recipes I really want to try. Check it out!

Last night Nick and I tried our first recipe. Baked Oatmeal. Delicious! :) We put it on warm all night long, and it was ready when we woke up. (Nick even woke up at 6:30 am to try it...Miracle! :)) The only changes we made were chocolate chips instead of raisins, and we added in some fiber powder to be all healthified. Give it a try! It wont disappoint! :)

Here are some pictures:

And the recipe:
--3 cups rolled oats
--1/2 cup brown sugar
--2 tsp cinnamon
--2 tsp baking powder
--1 tsp salt
--1 cup milk
--2 eggs
--2 tsp vanilla
--1/4 cup butter, melted

Week in Review

2009-03-01T17:29:00.000-08:00

I had such a great week. :) Even though my birthday was on Ash Wednesday, I managed to have a really good day!

Happy Lent Everybody! :) What did you give up?

This weekend my mom, sisters, and I traveled to Michigan to go wedding dress shopping for Amy. I would LOVE to show you pictures of the AMAZING wedding dress and bridesmaids dresses she picked out, but I would never do that do her. :) But it is the best wedding dress I have ever seen, and I am so glad she picked it!

Highlights for the week:

- The Bachelor tomorrow night....So many rumors swirling around...can't wait to see how it turns out

- 2 birthday parties :)

- Zumba Monday and Wednesday

- 1:00 Dismissal on Tuesday

Have a great week!

Booty Shakin'

2009-02-10T16:16:00.000-08:00

On Monday I started Zumba

Love, love, love it! A great workout and super fun! Highly recommend it! :)

Looking forward to an extra long weekend! Have a great one!

Take that Phyllis!

2009-02-04T15:12:00.000-08:00

I was going to post pictures of our 100th day of school, but there is something much more pressing on my mind today.

Well as most of you know I am a die hard Young and the Restless fan. Even though I have only been faithfully watching for the last few years, I feel like I can call myself a devoted fan. :) Watched some in high school, so I know most of the history...who are we kidding...Someone can stop watching for years and then pick up the story line in one episode. ;) Still love it...not something on my "to give up for Lent" list.

Soo...... I have been waiting a long time for this day. The day that we could wipe the smirk off this woman's face.

The day when Nick would take Sharon in his arms...or on the floor of a cabin...whatever floats his boat, and the possibility of Nick and Sharon would rise again. I am hoping its not a fluke and I can see these two together everyday. :)

So, on this Wednesday, February 4th there is a permanent smile on my face. :) Thank you, Y and the R writers!!!

Stavy...

2009-01-29T18:40:00.000-08:00

Funny Kindergarten story:

My little Gustavo likes to sing me songs. Last week he sang me some rapper song "It's too late to apologize" Something like that. One of the college subs overheard and filled me in that that was basically a gangsta song my sweet 6 year old was singing. :)

A few days ago he took the cake when the following happened.:)

Gustavo: Mrs. Juday I have another song for you.

Me: Awesome Stavy...Cant wait to hear it.

(In the tune of the VERY old song that my mom listened to.... "Lonely, I'm Mr. Lonely...I have nobody to call my own."

Gustavo: Bologna, I'm just bologna...I have nobody to call my own. :)

I almost peed my pants. I guess what this proves is that this little one has a vast variety of music in his back pocket. :)

They Come In Threes....

2009-01-19T13:25:00.000-08:00

I have always heard that bad luck comes in threes. So after a rockin week of delays and closings I thought the rest of the weekend was smooth sailin'. WRONG!!!

Friday: Took my NEW car into the car dealership AGAIN! This is the second time in the last month it has been in the shop. Last time it was the all wheel drive, this time the transmission and the starter. I think they are seriously sick of me calling and wanting things fixed...but I am going to get all I can out of that 3 month warranty! :) Actually they gave me a cute Jeep Liberty without painted numbers all over it, (unlike last time) so it worked out, but it's still a pain.

Saturday: Cut my finger...hurt like the opposite of heaven

Sunday morning 12:30 am: I am driving home when I open the garage door and we see what looks like snow filling our garage and steam rolling off of the so called snow. I wake Nick up and he is FREAKING Out He's yelling "Oh My Gosh" "Oh My Gosh No!" And I really don't understand what is happening. When we get a little closer we both run out and see the ceiling of our garage is half gone. Three inches of water, wet drywall, and insulation covering the whole floor. Needless to say, we both felt like CRYING, but we just started cleaning up.

When we are done cleaning up the garage at 2:00 in the morning we notice that it had leaked into the ajoining wall and ruined our spare bedroom carpet and bathroom ceiling. I didnt sleep all night because I was so sure the whole house was waterlogged and going to come crashing down on us.

In hindsight my dad says we are INCREDIBLY lucky that it shot out one way and not the other because then it was have ruined the living part of our house. We think a pipe burst when it was so cold and on Saturday when it warmed up the water started flowing. We are thinking that it started flooding shortly after we left at 5:30 and didnt stop until we shut the water off at 12:30.

So now we are in the process of getting it all cleaned up. As I type this there are people already working to fix the mess. I was hoping to finagle a whirlpool bath tub out of the deal, but I don't think my begging is going to work. :( After a few days we are starting to laugh about it. So although I am still pumped about my dyson I really wish it sucked up water! :)

Weekend recap: Not much sleep, lots of work = Not ready for school to start back tomorrow! :)

One Sad Day...

2009-01-16T17:10:00.000-08:00

I know I am almost 26, but I thought I had more time. More time before I would see the day that I would be overjoyed to get a new sweeper. I even said it could be an early birthday present. :) But after lots of internet research of pros, con, and reviews...and most importantly, my 30% coupon at Kohls...here is what Nick calls "an entire home cleaning system."

I got it home, put it together (so proud of myself), and started cleaning up a storm. And let me say I keep a clean house, and still this is what I got out of just my living room.

Disgusting...I knew those cheapo sweepers we had werent doing a good job! And after dinner Nick even got in on the fun and cleaned all the furniture and the upstairs.
So, I guess it's time to realize my youth is over...and I'm turning into my mom :)

Big Ol' Projects

2009-01-09T17:47:00.000-08:00

Well it's official, I made it though my first week back....and actually it was amazingly good. My kids were AWESOME! Knock on wood :) During break Nick and I took a trip to IKEA and then came back and made some changes to our living room and kitchen. Here are some pictures of the new decs.

Angle 1:

Angle 2:

The kitchen changes:
**What is that basket on the table you ask? Oh...that my rockin USA basket from Becca, that I love :)

Some of the new decor from my in-laws

And the stars are in the kitchen now... (just look past the picture of me)

It isnt much, but we feel like we HGTV'ed our house, and love the changes.

Book Club:
During break I also read two really great books I thought I would share with you.
Book 1: The Secret Life of Bees...Nick and I listened to this book on our way to Chicago and I fell in love with books on tape.

Book 2: The 90 minutes in heaven. This book was just one of those books that was divine intervention. It gave me such peace about my grandma passing away and the life she is experiencing now. It gave me a WONDERFUl new and different perspective on heaven and couldn't have come at a better time in my life.

Have a great weekend! :)

Say It Ain't So....

2009-01-07T15:21:00.000-08:00

ENGAGED??

Two Weeks in Review

2009-01-04T09:21:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's already been 2 weeks and it is time to go back to school tomorrow! Luckily, tomorrow is a teacher work day, so hopefully it will give me time to get back in "school mode." Here are some highlights of the past few weeks.

Saturday:
**Grandpa Gallmeyer's Christmas...it was a pretty sad one without grandma, but it was nice to be together.

**The Juday Christmas: Here is a shot of the ladies and one of Nick and I

**Christmas Eve mass and then my Mom and Dad's Christmas with everyone and Grandpa bob

Christmas:
**Christmas morning with my mom, dad, and sisters

**The Yeager's for lunch
**Chop Suey dinner at the Mawhorters :)

The Day after Christmas:
**The Juday Christmas: The girls all had matching outfits and we had a great 2 days laying around playing games, eating, and spending time with one another.

**New Years Eve: Mom and Dads for rockband, pizza, and an amazing dessert pizza mom whipped up :)

**Thursday and Friday: Since Nick and I didnt get each other gifts we decided to take a trip to Chicago. We stayed at the nicest hotel...gotta love priceline...here is Nick is the room and Nick and I getting ready to go to dinner

After dinner we hit up a casino, and after losing $15.00 we left. We had more fun watching people play then actually playing ourselves. You can't believe how much money people spend there! Then I stayed up watching my favorite new show...

On Friday we woke up and went to:

Oh my gosh! I was in awe...such an awesome store. We got some awesome deals and redecorated our living room. I will post pictures soon of the new decs.

Saturday: Kacina, Emma, and I met up at Olive Garden and then went shopping at the mall. Fun times! :)

It was a great two weeks and I can pretty much guarentee that waking up everyday at 10 is not going to make for a good Monday morning. :)

2009...Will be Divine :)

2008-12-30T10:02:00.000-08:00

A new year...a new set of goals. I looked back at my 2008 goals, and I think I was pretty successful! :)

To Do In 2008

1) Sell our old house….…. Check
2) Pay off all our loans….. Getting very close
3) Go on a vacation with Nicholas…..check
4) Get a dog….still thinking about it
5) Save lots of money…..check
6) Become a hospice volunteer….I still want to do this
7) THINK about starting a family (See #5)….thought about it 
8) Take ballroom dancing with my love…..Check
9) Become more involved at church……Check
10) Organize classroom/plan for next year….Check
11) Finish our house remodeling projects….Getting closer
12) Exercise more…..Check
13) Start my college classes….No Check

Here are my 2009 goals :)

1) Start my masters
2) Save money/Pay off loans
3) Learn to hem my own pants/sew...that one's for mom :)
4) Go on vacation with Nick...preferably my first cruise
5) Stay healthy/Exercise
6) Find a new hobby
7) Become a hospice volunteer
8) Finish house projects
9) Take sign language classes
10)Learn how to braid hair

My Grown Up Christmas List

2008-12-19T18:09:00.000-08:00

Nick was lucky enough to get this truck from a company that is getting ready to close for an amazing deal. He is so excited to finally have a truck, especially in the ice storm!

I was bummed that we didnt go to school on Friday. We had so many fun things planned, including an awesome dance for the Christmas "pageant"! However I am SO excited about the next two weeks and all that I hope to accomplish before the 5th. :)

In other news, on December 8th The Worrells welcomed their new baby boy Mason into the world. I am not kidding this baby is BEA-UTIFUL! He is so sweet and I am so happy for them! I cant belive I forgot to take a picture, but here is one from Emily's blog.

Nick and I wish you a Merry Christmas! :)

Silly Antics

2008-12-04T19:08:00.000-08:00

Mr. Juday has never asked me to post anything on the blog until yesterday! :) I of course said "YES!" Here is a picture of Nick and Dave for their Thanksgiving play at church. I didnt see the play, but heard it was very funny! Of course it was :) I couldnt be more proud of my feathered love!

Thankful for....

2008-11-29T07:16:00.000-08:00

A successful feast at school on Wednesday! We ended up having 60 parents and kids come to feast in our small room before break. It was a tight squeeze, but the kids had an awesome time! The parents were so generous and brought all the food. Some of the highlights were making butter, get together games, and a turkey calling contest. :)
Here are some pictures from the day...

-Another fun and productive Black Friday! :) The Judays decided to meet up in Goshen at 6. The lines were amazingly short and we got lots of good deals! I found this little treasure in Hobby Lobby and I am thinking about giving it to my sister in law for Christmas. What do you think?? ;)

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! :) Bring on Christmas!! :)

Saturday Celebration

2008-11-25T14:52:00.000-08:00

Saturday was Nick and I's five year dating anniversary. It seems like forever ago, but I still remember that day so well. I was SO nervous....we had been chatting for a while, but I still didnt know him very well. He had bought me at the Manchester date auction, and we set the date...November 21st. We both went to the Manchester basketball game beforehand. I was there with ARC and I remember Nick so sweetly took Mark over to hang out with the college guys...I loved that! He was so sweet to him! After the game we went to the movie Radio in Huntington. We now joke it was a special ed date night :) I remember coming back after the movie and thinking how interesting Nick was and how easy he was to be around. When we pulled into the Union parking lot he surprised me with a pumpkin dessert he had made me. (Now I know he got really razzed from his friends about that.) The next day I became his girlfriend and the rest is history.
Fast forward five years...we celebrated at Sam's Club by eating enough samples so we didnt have to pay to go out somewhere! Haha, old married couple:) Then we went car shopping. After having a run in with a deer earlier this week, we were afraid we wouldnt find a place that would give us enough for our trade and/or have a car we could afford. But lucky for us, it was our special day and we ended up buying this new car...

It was a great day and I love my new car. A special shoutout to my own personal car shopper Emma Munson who has been diligent and very helpful in the process! :)

Sinfully Delicious Weekend

2008-11-16T08:37:00.000-08:00

What an eventful week and weekend it was! We started off with my love getting this treasure with "the Nick Juday DJ fund". Thanks Hetricks :)

On Saturday I went to a baby shower for Natalie, Chuck, and the soon to come Miss Baby Emma. She looks so cute pregnant, and this is such a blessing after years of trying to have a little one. The food was FABULOUS and the cake even better. Here is a picture of Nat and I.

Saturday evening Alyssa and I went to Tammi's Cream Cheese party. Weird sounding I know, but seriously SO DELICIOUS! I guess great sister in law minds think alike!

Promise that wasnt planned...but still funny.

When we got home there was a heck of a party going down at our house. Lots of poker, food, and Rockband!
Kyle and Erin were rocking out!

Footloose on Fridays

2008-11-08T06:54:00.000-08:00

So, as many of you know Nick and I signed up to be in Ballroom dancing on Friday nights at the Y in Kendallville. We both were so excited, but had no idea what it would be like. We werent quite sure what to wear. Should we bust out our leotards and spandex pants? High heels, low heels, Headbands? We just weren't sure. Thanks to all the "benchwarmers" for your ideas! :) Haha. Here is what we ended up wearing.

So, we get there at 6:55 ready for our 7:00 class, but when we got there we were informed that since we were the only couple we had been moved to the advanced class! YIKES!! Here we are waiting till the 7:30 class (aka- trying to decide how we should escape before we humiliate ourselves :))

But when 7:30 came we were greeted with the NICEST couples ever. Mostly older couples that have been dancing for years. They were so patient and helpful to Nick and I! What we didnt know is that they have dance parties once a month where they decorate and play music and its a special date night! We cant wait to go to our first one. :)
They even told us we were great dancers at the end of the night! We now know a West Coast Swing Dance, and I have to say we are pretty good!! :) At 9:00 we packed up to go home...next week we will be accompanying our new dance friends at the Pizza Forum for pizza and adult drinks after class! :) If anyone is interested they are still taking new couples! I promise you would love it!

Nick and Jill's Weekend O' Fun

2008-11-02T17:42:00.000-08:00

Boy, I had an awesome Fall Break! I got lots done, but had plenty of time to relax and reenergize before Monday. The highlight of the break was a trip Nick and I took on Saturday. It started off at 6:00 am. We got up, got ready, and I made pancakes for a special treat.

After two hours of driving through the fog (what the heck is that about on a Saturday?) we arrived in Michigan City. What we forgot was that Michigan is an hour behind us, so to pass the time we went to the Bluechip Casino.

We tried out the penny machines and didnt have much luck.

But then I spotted this baby...and knew it was calling our name

To make a long story short we put in ten dollars and after an awesome bonus round we were the proud owners of this...

YAHOO! It was a great way to start off our day! After that we made our way to the Michigan City Outlet Mall. We loved it! We got lots of great deals, had ice cream in the middle of the day, and had lots of good laughs. (Did I mention I am so glad football season is over?) This is what I came out with.

We made our way home, stopped for Chinese takeout and went home and relaxed our tired selves. It was an amazing day and a new family tradition!

Am I Seeing Double???

2008-10-30T12:35:00.000-07:00

Today was our Halloween Party at school! We got out at 11, and that is perfect because the kids are SOOO excited and crazy! Tammi, Alyssa, and I dressed as Jared, Robby, and Jason.

Here is a group shot of all of us!

But the Best Costume Award goes to.....Jared Knipper for perfectly portraying our favorite close talking janitor...Tim Emely! Too funny!!

A familia shot with Alyssa

Happy Halloween everyone! Fall Break is on!!!!

Bells Will Be Ringing

2008-10-21T18:23:00.000-07:00

First of all a huge CONGRATULATIONS goes out to this beautiful couple who got married on Saturday. Emma Hetrick doesnt sound right yet, but then again you will always be Emma Munson to me :)

It was so nice to see old friends and get caught up. Here we are getting the wedding low down from Father Jim.

On Saturday some of us went and got our hair done in Fort Wayne. Besides being profiled by some young blond thing, it was lots of fun. Here are the ladies all beautified.

Meg and I were HONORED to be the Matrons of Honor. Emma has always been like the fifth sister and we are so excited that she met and fell in love with Greg! What a great match they are. Here we are taking a break from the dance floor.

Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Hetrick. Welcome to the married club! :)

These are a few of my favorite things....

2008-10-15T17:48:00.000-07:00

After being gone for what seemed like a week this is what I had waiting for me. My rockin' sister in law/school counselor, my wonderful assistant Jenni, and the best sub ever Emily had taken the time to make this with all my little pumpkins handprints. I LOVED it and appreciated it so much!

Last Saturday my family, Grandpa, Greg, Emma, and Kacina pressed apples to make apple cider. So much fun! Here are a few of my favorite pics :)
Group Shot

Fam Shot

Emma doing her job Perfectly...look at all that goop she collected. :)

KK was a pro! Her and Grandpa were quite the team.

Grandpa, Trey, and Amy workin' hard for the cider :)

Great idea Dad! :)

Grandma Connie

2008-10-08T14:40:00.000-07:00

On Monday my Grandma Dee passed away. It caught us all of guard that it happened so soon, but it was truly a blessing. She had battled cancer for a little more than a year and her body was just so tired. My family was with her when she passed and I really am so glad we were. I am so glad we decided to make the trip to Fort Wayne that night and had some time to be with her; talking to her, telling her stories, and laughing. I really hope that she was listening and silently doing her trademark belly laugh that night. I just have so many great memories of Grandma and I am so thankful that I had such a wonderful grandma. Please keep my family, especially my grandpa, in your prayers.

Love and Marriage

2008-10-05T09:56:00.001-07:00

On Saturday Abbey became Mrs. Mault. She looked beautiful and it was so much fun catching up with friends from Manchester! Here are a few pictures....

Take 1: We can't find Ashley..

We found Ashley! Take 2:

Congratulations Jeff and Abbey! Thanks for letting us share in your special day.

Slap Happy

2008-09-28T09:15:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we celebrated Emma's Bachlorette Party! I seriously dont remember ever laughing that hard in my whole life. We started off at Olive Garden and ended at my house with lots of to die for snacks! Thats right, we know we are CRAZY!! :) Here are a few pictures from the night....

Our "BEAUTIFUL" waitress Nicole M brought Emma this very fancy corked drink. :)I think this is before Kacina threatened the waiter! :)

I Love Emma's model pose here! And no, we dont know the girl poking out of the back, she followed us in. ;)

Cant wait for your wedding Em! We love you!!

If You Give A Jill A Pancake....

2008-09-23T13:55:00.001-07:00

She'll love you forever! Thanks love! :)

One Pampered Bride

2008-09-21T18:39:00.000-07:00

This little doll loves gettin' presents! I mean that face says it all! :)

And today lots of people came to pamper her before her big day! :)

Here is a Manchester group shot! :)

Yeah for a full Hetrick Kitchen!

A Favor To Ask...

2008-09-15T16:51:00.000-07:00

There are few things that I feel compelled to share and advocate for, but the welfare of children is one. I ask that you please do this one thing for me. After watching a horrific Oprah today about children who are victimized by predators, I realized I wanted to do a small thing to help. I would truly appreciate you doing the same. So please, send this letter posted below to our Indiana senators. Please copy and paste the letter, sign your name, send the letter to Lugar and Bayh.

Dear Senator:

I know that you believe, like I do, that we must do everything possible to protect children from sexual predators. That is why I am asking for your help.

Last year alone, U.S. law enforcement identified over 300,000 criminals who were trafficking in movies and pictures of young children being raped and tortured. Experts say that one in every three of these criminals has local child victims. Child pornography trafficking over the Internet has given us a trail of evidence that leads straight to their doorsteps, but the vast majority of these children will never be rescued because investigators are overwhelmed, outnumbered and underfunded.

As your constituent, I urge you to do everything in your power to pass the PROTECT Our Children Act (S. 1738, Biden-Hatch). This bipartisan legislation passed the House 415-2, but it is now the victim of petty partisan politics.

Now that we know where these children are and how to protect them, there is no excuse for the Senate to fail to take action this session.

Bayh, Evan- (D - IN) Class III
131 RUSSELL SENATE OFFICE BUILDING WASHINGTON DC 20510
(202) 224-5623
Web Form: bayh.senate.gov/contact/email/

Lugar, Richard G.- (R - IN) Class I
306 HART SENATE OFFICE BUILDING WASHINGTON DC 20510
(202) 224-4814
E-mail: senator_lugar@lugar.senate.gov

Hey, Hey We're the Monkeys...

2008-09-08T15:24:00.000-07:00

People Say were Monkeyin' Around! Here's my new class... I wasnt sure at first, but I think its going to be a GREAT year! :)

This and That

2008-08-29T19:37:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from this summer!:)

Nick and I at Shipshe! A fun end of summer trip with the Judays and Yeagers :)

Some funny pictures from Abbey's shower.

The girls! :)

Emma is TOO funny!

Emma Loves Jesus and sheep :)

Gosh she was jealous about this tool box!

Nick's friend worked this week on our landscaping. I think it is turning out great!

And smack dab in the middle of our beautiful landscaping is this...

Congratulations WN football team and coaches for the W against Eastside!! :) YEAH!!!

Happy Labor Day weekend!!

A Brand New Class

2008-08-27T15:14:00.000-07:00

This is how I feel by the end of the day...I have quite the class this year!

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

2008-08-17T18:11:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, Alyssa and I met Emma and Kacina at Red Robin! We had an awesome lunch and then went cruisin around the mall for a while. Here is a photo from lunch compliments of Stephanie. :)

This pictures was taken after Emma totally offended Kacina about lack of bling on her ring! :)

And this just makes me laugh because Kacina is too funny :)

It was an awesome afternoon and great to catch up! :)

In other news, West Noble had a scrimmage on Friday against East Noble. Here is a picture! We are keeping our fingers crossed that all their hard work is going to pay off this year!:)

Back to school tomorrow! Where did the summer go? Oh yeah it was running after this little guy...

"I Think That Water Is Boiling..."

2008-08-05T17:59:00.000-07:00

Today Meg and I decided to freeze sweet corn. So, we started by picking corn at Grandma and Grandpa Mawhorter's. We husked it and then headed to Meg's to start freezing it. No one warned us that its really more like a three person job! :)

Here is the calm before the storm! :) haha

At some point I had burned my arm three times by scalding water and was running around like a mad woman trying to boil the corn and then put it in TWO batches of cold water. (Grandma says Two and we do Two! :)) All the while Meg is calmly cutting the corn. When I finally got a few minutes I went to help her cut and she looks at me and says " I Think That Water is Boiling" Haha! I just had to crack up!

Actually it was fun and Mom came after work to help us. Here is the end product. 30 bags of corn!

Things On My Mind

2008-08-01T12:29:00.001-07:00

First of all I want to say how heavy my heart is about the death of Cathy Knopp. She was a good family friend, was there for Nick and I's wedding, and truly was a tremendous person. I remember her class very vividly and always very much enjoyed it. She always told everyone in our family to call her "Cathy" at school instead of Miss Knopp because I feel like in many ways the Mawhorters were her family here. I never could do it, but the offer was very nice. I know my grandma and grandpa were very good to her and have very fond memories of her as well. I am glad they are having a service next Saturday because I very much want to be apart of something for this special lady. She will be greatly missed!

Also congrats to Danielle and Billy Sitts for their new baby girl Madelyn Irene on Wednesday! :) Cant wait to see her!

Congrats to The Bigelows for their winter baby coming. :) I am pulling for the name Raz Renee Bigelow for a girl...What do you think?? I think its sassy and flirty and everything a name should be....haha and who cares if it was thought of in the alcoholic aisle at CVS??

I cant believe that summer is almost over! I currently have 18 in my class and one is named America...I already have a special place for her in my heart!;) Cant wait to say " Good Morning America" and I hope she is sweet enough to sing a little Lee Greenwood with me on a Show and Tell Day :)

My prayers are with Jerad and Sara as Jerad leaves for Iraq. God Bless our troops!

Emma Munson is the fastest typer in the whole wide world. I listened to her type of the phone the other day and either she was just hitting all the keys on her keyboard or Mrs. Tilker gave her some dynamo typing skills! (I knew I could somehow tie it in Em :))

Welcome to Blogland Tammi Hicks! I cant wait for you to start blogging...and I think getting bit by a pig would be the perfect place to start! :)

And finally, Logan loves rockin my red headband :)

Pretty random post this time I realize...hope you followed :) Enjoy your weekend!

Hootie, You've Still Got It!

2008-07-27T09:26:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, we went on a double date to the Hootie and the Blowfish concert at the Elkhart Fair. And let me tell you...Hootie is one good looking man...the Blowfish so so...but Hootie was rockin :)

Nick and I had a great time together! :) We ate some kickin cheese burgers, a yummy pretzel, and some ice cream!

Alyssa and I reminsced about our Styx concert a few years back! :)

One Happy Boy!!

2008-07-21T10:21:00.000-07:00

Since they came out Nick has wanted a Wii. When we owned both houses there was NO way we could have afforded it, but when his football weight lifting check came we decided it would be the perfect reward for all his hard work. So here is one happy boy with his new Wii and games!

HOLY TOLEDO!

2008-07-17T19:14:00.000-07:00

Do you know what this little dumplin did while I was gone in Florida?? He started crawling!! :) Selfishly I was hoping to be the first one to see him crawl (Sorry Abbey :)) but it wasnt in the cards! :)

Here are some pictures of Logan from the fair on Wednesday!

The Sunshine State

2008-07-13T07:56:00.000-07:00

Well we are back! :) One week in Florida was great!

We left with the Judays and a few Yeagers last Saturday. We ate out alot, got lots of sun, and had lots of laughs! :) And since we had a spare room in our condo Meg and Joel came down to stay with us.

This was dinner after we beat the Russians in Olympic Pool Volleyball :)

Nick and I had lots of fun with his family. This was after some killer Florida ice cream. Note: Florida sun + Jills Lips = The most painful cold sores I have ever had in my life.

A Heart of Gold

2008-07-03T15:31:00.000-07:00

I just heard about the unexpected death of Dave Knopp and I just can't explain how heavy my heart is. He truly was one of the best men I know. He spoke at my high school graduation, came to the grocery store many times over the year, mentored at Ligonier, and was a big track supporter. But without him I dont know if my sisters and I would have been able to financial make it through college. He was constantly working to help our family with scholarship, not because it was his job, but because he was such a kind soul. I am equally as sad because we are leaving Saturday for Florida and I wont be able to attend his viewing or funeral.

I just ask that you pray for his family and let them know the power of prayer.

WANTED...BAD BLOGGER

2008-06-30T15:06:00.001-07:00

Please alert everyone you know:

This lady was last known to be living in North Manchester. She is considered armed with a computer but is unlikely to use it. She is known to lurk on other blogs and often comment, but not alert the proper authorities of fun and interesting things going on in her life. She recently LIED under oath about updating her blog last Thursday. She even swore on her life that she would surrender some new information to her friends. If you see this young woman please give her a stern look, or better yet leave her a nasty message on her blog.

Thanks for helping to keep blogspot 411 interesting! :)

Love you Em! :)

Logi Bear

2008-06-26T19:09:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures of Logi Bear for the past few weeks! :) Too cute!

Proud as Punch

2008-06-25T18:19:00.000-07:00

Did you know my sister Amy is officially an RN??

She took the test on Tuesday while the rest of us were in Shipshewana, but didnt find out until today. When she texted me to let me know she passed I welled up with tears. I got so emotional because for four years she has studied and prepped herself to become a nurse. Many a weekend she was in the bedroom with her nose to the books while the rest of us relaxed. Finally all of her hardwork has paid off. I just couldnt think of a better person to take care of people, and I couldnt be more proud of her.

How Did You "Gnome" Emma?

2008-06-19T07:21:00.000-07:00

First of all, a HUGE thank you to Emma and Greg for the priceless Rain Gauge Gnome. I have to say it was the most "Original" housewarming gift we received! :) From the bottom of our hearts THANK YOU!! :) Unfortunately, Meg was not so happy that she didnt get one.

Meg, Emma, and I had a great time yesterday afternoon just hanging out. Logan loved them and his new turtle swimming float :)

Meet TOM

2008-06-16T09:58:00.000-07:00

No this adorable baby's name isnt TOM...but he is The Other Man in my life now:) Meet Logan

Well since I was free from work this summer I told our friends/neighbors Kyle and Abbey (How weird is it that we went to college together and now live right beside each other??) that I would watch their 8 month old, Logan. Today was our first day together, and I am so in love with him. I am sure you will hear lots more about Logan, so now you have officially met! :)

On the Brain

2008-06-11T20:27:00.000-07:00

Since I am on summer late night hours I thought I would fill this out. Love this idea Ashley! :) Hope my blog friends will fill in their own thoughts on the following topics. :)

I am: blessed with a wonderful family and friends
I think: I am scared the world is going to pot
I thank: God we sold our house
I know: I married the most amazing man ever
I wish: the food at the Albion Fair was calorie/fat free
I hate: child predators and have a few ideas about what we should do with them
I miss: my kiddos so much and worry too much about several of them
I feel: excited that I get to work with my SIL next year
I shop: at Kohls WAY TOO MUCH!
I hear: some sports guy talking about how awesome he is...gag me :)
I wonder: if after watching Logan all summer if I will be ready for a baby
I dream: about never having to worry about money again
I love: pancakes and pumpkin pie blizzards
I care: about people who have no one in their lives
I always: try to make people feel comfortable whether I make a fool of myself of not
I celebrate: all the people in my life who are finally feeling well :)
I sing: too high at church and on Randy Travis songs and I am proud of it
I cry: not nearly as much as I used to
I don’t always: give people a fair chance
I write: Kindergarten stories with pictures that look like a preschoolers drew them
I pray: that Grandma Ina is with her love after 50 years
I lose: my keys on a daily basis
I listen: less than I should
I am scared: about people I love dying
I dance: the same three moves over and over and to get out of cleaning up after weddings :)
I need: to learn to be patient and less controlling
I surf: the internet too much
I dread: the first month of school
I anticipate: helping with Em's wedding
I laugh: when Tammi Hicks gets her hand stuck in the office door and flashes me a look like she has been attacked

Sorry Tammio :) Boy I will miss you next year :)

I Am In Love...

2008-06-10T18:20:00.000-07:00

With Summer! :)

Here are a few of the things that I have been loving about my first week of summer vacation:

- My pool (The box showed like 6 people playing in it, but I think its a two seater :))

-My daily bike ride around the neighborhood....boy maybe this summer I will learn all the crazy roads in this place.

-Some guy was getting rid of this TV, and asked if we wanted it for free....HECK YEAH we do! :)

-I am off all week because Kyle, Abbey and Logan went on vacation

- I can go to Walmart any day of the week and spend AS LONG as I want browsing :)

- I got two huge boxes of kids books for $10 at the Albion Library

- Ice Road Truckers Season 2

- My favorite author has a new book out just in time for me to read it :)

- Sleeping in till 9

-Blueberries were on sale this week!! :)

That's enough for now.