Taylor Clan

Adoption Application

2011-05-03T19:38:00.000-07:00

Finally....we were able to send our application for adoption off to Oregon for review! It took about an hour getting our paperwork notarized, four or five hours of writing an autobiography, countless hours of filling out more forms than I care to remember...but it's DONE!!! Now, we will have a 'home study' with Catholic Social Services and proceeded by completing our dossier. Exciting day! Baby steps!

Ice Breakers!!!

2011-04-17T16:50:00.000-07:00

I got the kiddos (well, Reagan and Greyson, anyways) to do ICe Breaker with me this year! What a fun introduction to the crazy world of racing! We woke up to several inches of snow...but if a gal had to have snow in April....admittedly, it was rather purty. It was the Charlie Brown snow...the kind you'd see in a snow globe, and luckily it quit before the race. Greyson and Reago were totaly champs! They ran the majority of the way and I only had to carry Greyson a little way. They got trophies and were tickled with themselves for running a whole mile. Greyson was a little disappointed that he didn't get any Ice Breakers candy...but there was a bag of Cheetos in his snack lunch, so he quickly forgave. Soo proud of my turkeys!!! Brooks had a birthday party so he was off the hook this year! Happy Ice Breakers everyone!

Saturday Swingset

2011-04-16T14:00:00.000-07:00

Just kidding. This post really has nothing to do with swingsets. I just couldn't think of a title.

We did have our first 'orientation call' with 'All God's Children' (our adoption agency) yesterday. Pretty exciting. We were going over general information, including the time line of this process. We will receive a 'referral' (meaning that we'll know the child we'll be matched with) in probably a little over a year. My main concern with the time line is as follows: We get the referral...we travel to Bulgaria to meet said child. We then come back home WITHOUT said child for FIVE TO EIGHT months until the adoption can be finalized and we travel back to Bulgaria to bring little boo boo home. I got very teary when I was talking to the coordinator regarding this. She said to me, "Kristin, the difficulty will only be on your end...this child will be fine with her living conditions. She doesn't know any better. You will see where she's living and want to pluck her out of there but she is going to be frightened and miss her orphanage and care givers." Ouch. I'm already emotional and we're barely rounding lap one of 500. Meanwhile, I figure this little girl (or boy...but in my mind it's a girl) is probably just being born. Perhaps today.

I best get to praying for her!

The Latest:

2011-04-06T12:57:00.000-07:00

Visit from mom and dad, stomach bug, spring banquet w Bobby Bowden as speaker, house cleaning, sheets changed, Bible Study (amazing, by the way), stomach bug for Geoff, supper is already made (lasagne
..just needs to go in the oven), piano lessons, semi back on Facebook, ready for spring, Weight Watchers, cat still outside/garage dweller, met a great lady whose daughter is to have open heart surgery, friends are moving away, (wah, Anne and DAve!) friends are moving here! (hooray, Kenneth and Bryn) missing Iowa spring, need to clean my car, inside and out, Easter's on it's way, haven't worked out this week (see stomach bug), tomorrow is trash day, autobiography is written for adoption paperwork. I have a pretty mundane autobiography. Almost time to go get kids!!!

Before I forget....and when I forget....

2011-03-21T11:57:00.000-07:00

For over a year now, Geoff has been telling me that he's felt 'called' to adopt a child. I have had such a difficult time with this. Honestly, I'm not an amazing mother. I lose my patience. I look forward to bed time. I sometimes will the days away. I long for date nights and shopping by myself. I've had several friends that have had babies recently, and while being very excited and happy for them, I'm alternately relieved that it isn't me, and glad to have 'those years' behind me. Until recently.

In doing the study of the book of Daniel by Beth Moore, I've come to see God answer the ferverent prayers of Sharach, Meshach, and Abednego, by speaking to DANIEL. He didn't tell them directly. He answered their prayers for revealing truth to Daniel. I've been waiting for God to 'tell' ME that we should adopt a child. I've been listening to hear 'the call'...only to have Geoff continue to reiterate to me that he's feeling disobedient to God for not following through with what he feels is a calling from the Holy Spirit. Since surrending my own will and desires completely over to God, I finally have peace about the possibility of raising another child. I'm even....get this.....a little giddy at the prospect.

Bulgaria.

That's the country we're looking into adopting from. I know it's going to be difficult. Even brutal some days. Which is why I'm writing this. To remind myself (and maybe you'll even remind me some days, too) That He works all things out for good. According to His will and purpose.

Smelly Cat

2011-03-15T18:17:00.000-07:00

So....the dear, sweet, fluffy little kitty had a not-so-accidental "accident" in the middle of Brooks' bed last night! Smelly CAT!!! What are they feeding you???

So....our declawed fluffy/neutered (did I mention that he's really fluffy?) kitty, Kyle..now is a garage/outdoor dweller. Best of luck, dearest Kyle. You've 'accidented' too many times in our abode! Wah.

Gotta Run

2011-03-14T13:33:00.000-07:00

I have been TRYING to get back into running since breaking my stupid fibula during the Des Moines Half Marathon, October 17, 2010. I ran three miles with the one and only Mrs. Barbara Cook (love that woman, but that's another post) this morning on the tready...yes...my left outer ankle hurts a little. GRRR, growl, snarl!!! As if running's really all that fun, anyways...sheesh.
Chicken enchiladas are on the menu at the Taylor house tonight. Then, it's off to Mrs. Kindra Young's for a 'Bachelor party'...final rose ceremony! It's gonna be epic. I was certain it would be Emily...but now I'm losing my confidence in that. I have a whopping fourteen points left for the day..so that's cool too. All in all a fantastic Monday. The wind is howling like nobody's business...but it's sunny and pressing fifty so I'm gonna let it slide.

Showdown

2011-03-12T16:36:00.000-08:00

Actually...that's the name of the local ski area. We took a last minute trip up this morning. SOOO nice to live an hour from the slope and be able to pack up the Yukie and take off randomly/spontaneously. It was Greyson's first time skiing. He LOVED it despite his desperate need for a nap. He thought the whole thing was a race and was happy if you told him he was "winning". He behaved JUST the way I had anticipated. Not at all interested in learning the 'pizza' (aka..how to stop) He just wanted to show that bunny slope what was up by seeing how expediently he could make it to the bottom to ride back up on the 'magic carpet'. Most respectable moms would have amble pics of their three year old's first attempt at skiing...but not this chick! (guess that makes me disrespectable?} unrespectable? Anyways....Reagan and Brooks had a blast as well...our cheeks are a little sunburnt...but what a GORGEOUS day on the mountain!

Greyson

2011-03-11T11:59:00.000-08:00

if ever you were taking a picture of the lad....this is his look. I love this kid. He tells me about fifty six times a day that he loves me and that I'm the 'greatest mom in the whole earth'. He gives kisses ALL the time and to everyone! Soo sweet! I know he'll outgrow this sooner or later...I just don't want to forget how great it feels to have his sweet arms squeezing my neck. What a blessing it is to have the privilege of being these little man's mommy..

Random Decorating Thoughts..

2011-03-09T14:39:00.000-08:00

ttp://www.ballarddesigns.com/vetrina-60-inch-media-console/furniture/media-furniture/13258So...I've scoured the catalogues and internet searching for the perfect media center for my downstairs family room. I finally found just exactly the one I want.....in GREY!!! How fun is that?? I went to order it today...and they won't send out the order til the end of MAY!!!!!! Anyone see anything cool/similar out there lately??? oh..the pain!

Couples Retreat

2011-03-08T20:13:00.001-08:00

It's hilarious and I love it. If you haven't watched it, you need to. At least three times, because it gets funnier each time. Go. watch.

busy weekend!

2011-03-06T18:28:00.000-08:00

So...Friday after the kiddos got out of school....and Geoff got off work, we dropped Ellen off at 'Happy Tails Lodge', put out some extra portion of kitty chow, and took off for Missoula! What a treat the drive was!! I was amazed by the awesome drive. Most of the trip was 'pass'..meaning we were directly 'in' the mountain. We kept watching for deer...and there were SOO many that it's really a miracle that we didn't hit one. We also saw TONS of elk on the side of the mountain. Gorgeous! We arrived in Missoula just in time for the Rock and Worship Road Show to begin! We were able to see Jars of Clay, Thousand Foot Krutch, La Crae, and Mercy Me. Because I'm a crier..I had to shed some tears at all the different types of people all under one roof to praise and worship our God. Love love love love loved it!
Saturday morning, we got up and ate some breakfast and headed to the waterslides. Greyson and Brooks were the only brave ones to muster up the courage to go down the slides. Greyson was part animal..as usual. We hit Red Robin and the mall and got to meet our dear friends from residency the Madrian family in town from Spokane. It was SOO good to see them! Fun to be able to pick right back up where we had left off as if no time had passed at all. Fun as well to see the kiddos play and interact with each other! Love love love them!!! We raced home, picked up the smelly dog, and bolted the kids to the Peak while Geoff and I met some great friends for an awkward medley of people at Dantes. Fun fun!!! Brooks' bff spent the night...and we went off to a great church service and post church Fuddrucker's with our small group church family! Loved every second of this weekend. We're blessed to have such fun and amazing people in our lives!

wow. I'm blogging!

2011-02-28T15:48:00.000-08:00

So. When a gal gets off Facebook....she suddenly realizes that she once used to keep a blog. I see it's been a while, Given the fact that Greyson is listed here as one...and he's now 3 1/2!!!

It's Geoff's birthday. I went to Sam's Club and got a TON of cupcakes and chocolate and brought it to the hospital to surprise/humiliate him. (hehe) Greyson had a hard time reconciling Dr. Taylor with daddy...as Geoff was dolled up in his scrubs with a surgical hat on and a mask around his neck. Cute! He was significantly embarassed, but I honestly think I was even more so as I can't recall a time when I've felt more stared at.. weird! Even Brooks felt shy which is unusual for that boy.

Happy Birthday, Dear GEoffrey!!! 38! I remember when you turned 18!

BAsement Afters.

2010-07-23T04:47:00.001-07:00

Well...wouldn't it be nice if I would post some?? I'm going to figure out how to upload my pics from my new camera. (besides, I still don't have all the furniture figured out down there...kinda tricky with the limited...I mean, LIMITED furniture shopping in this fine uh,....town.) :) j/k...we love it here..just a tremendous lack of shopping!
HaPPY Friday! My folks will be here this weekend and we're going to Glacier and I'm totally excited!! I LOVE my mom and dad and having everyone together (the kids LOVE it, too!)

Saw our first snake in the yard last night. I was pulling in the driveway and was certain I had finally come across my first rattler (several neighbors have killed a few already this summer) I didn't spy a 'rattle' at the end of his tail so it must be a bull snake. (Which looks just like a rattler, but obviously doesn't have said rattle) ick!! I soooo hate snakes! This ends my 'running in the evenings' ventures!

Loving it here!

2010-07-17T07:31:00.000-07:00

What an amazing and almost unexpected blessing it's been to be living in Great Falls. We moved into our new home in May and have really enjoyed being 'country folk'. Geoff has almost elimated the gopher population (is that ever really accomplished?). We have laid 22,000 square feet of sod, finished the basement (including a theatre room:) and had several rooms painted. Aside from it taking twenty minutes to get just about anywhere (minimum) we LOVE it!!!

2009-09-23T13:27:00.000-07:00

hey.

I almost forgot to ramble for a couple of days here. We're still here on Whispering Ridge.
Our awesome Iowa friends will be here tomorrow and I"m soooo excited to see them/squeeze their guts out!

Reagan and Brooks are enjoying school and in the 'swing of things'. I love it. Today was 'meet me at the pole' day and I got a lump in my throat just thinking of the 3 million kids expected to gather around their various school flag poles to worship and pray for our nation. What an honor!

I had the DELIGHT of having a sitter come stay with Greyson this morning so I could be my nails done. It was THE most frivilous thing I've done in lord knows how long...but it was sheer joy! (and I can once again talk with my hands...which is useful) Greyson cried when 'Miss Debra' left. I think he enjoyed it, too!

Time's flitting along like mad. I can scarcely believe that October is just around the corner. We have an awesome little ladies luncheon shaping up for the 3rd and I'm getting really excited to see the details come together!!! We even got some cool chicks to sing/lead worship! Awesome!!!

Geoff's 2nd call tonight...which means he just may be there a stinkin' long time, but will be the first to leave tomorrow...so should be home by noon! I heart his new job, and so does he. What a blessin'.

I guess I best go wake up the little mister so we can get the big kids from their schoolio.

that's all.

Squash and heat

2009-09-17T12:45:00.000-07:00

You should know that I played Squash today at the gym . Oh my, oh my!!! What fun is that?? (Thanks for the recommendation, Ann...I'm certain I wouldn't have tried it w/o your prodding:)

OH...and it's remarkably warm here....this the last week of summer. (is that right?)

OH...and I'm now ''co-leading' a "ministry for women" at my new church! (www.harvestspringschurch.com ) I think :)

I trust you all with send me your greatest and best ideas...and speakers, and schedules, and other cool things like that. Oh...and PRAY...because you know me...and me no is a leader. I'm anxious to see God work through me...cause mama knows it ain't going to be ME!

Welcome Back, Me

2009-09-13T14:33:00.001-07:00

The message in church just today spoke so close to my heart. The transition of moving from Iowa to Great Falls has been just that. Transition. And transition is tough.

I'm making a concerted effort to focus on what's really important this week. We've been challenged to ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to us the areas that we need to give over to Him each day this week to assist in doing this. "Fasting (giving something up for an intended purpose and time frame for an intended result) has been the challenge.

I'm 'fasting' Facebook. How dumb does that sound? I've let updates, conversations, 'likes', snooping, picture lookin', commenting, joking, thumbs upping, friend accepting, group joining, poll taking, quiz matching, and photo uploading take away from what is and should be first and foremost on my priority list. Time with the Saviour. Time in the Word. Prayer. Fulfilling my purpose here on Earth to be a whole-hearted follower of Christ.

Time for a refocus, Me!

check in

2009-04-05T07:31:00.000-07:00

We're still alive. We close on the house on May 29th...also known as Brooks last day of school. :) We're very blessed that this house is sold. I notice its not nearly as clean lately!

Just trying to cram everyone and everything in before we leave!

sold......we think!

2009-03-02T08:18:00.001-08:00

Yes, we accepted an offer on the house! It was a great offer...so we didn't even counter!!!
Now we're just praying everything keeps sailing along like this in the house category!!!
The van's not starting like it should (despite it's lovely new battery and brakes from last week)

It's a money pit we're in!!! Not the kind that's FULL of money....but the kind that TAKES money! :) Oh well...still counting my blessings!

sold......we think!

2009-03-02T08:18:00.000-08:00

Flashback Friday...

2009-02-13T10:37:00.001-08:00

just for fun. Baby Reagan, in Feb....2004, Brooks as a baby, and Sydney in Feb 2006 (just after she was born....duh) and Brooks at his kindergarten Valentine's party!

my little Valentine's

2009-02-13T10:19:00.000-08:00

Here's the kiddos all charged up and ready for the big Valentine's goings on at school today. Greyson got to go to the gym with me instead...much to his dismay.

do you see the heart in Reago's hair?? Who's the coolest mom you know??

Still Alive.

2009-02-11T22:42:00.001-08:00

Me.
I am.

Another showing today. thought I'd pop my head out because I'm certainly NOT sleeping!

Here's a funny:

Yesterday Reagan grabbed my chest....two handed....full on, looked me dead in the eye and exclaimed, "Mom, these are your lungs.....they're attached to your heart." Apparently they've been learning some anatomy (albeit simple...and apparently a little messed up in her mind) in preschool.

Brooks passed 'Level One' swimming! Yes, that does mean that he submerged his face!!! Such progress for the boy...he's always really feared the water! I"m soo glad for him!!!

Greyson is BUSY. I really mean that......everyone who sees him comments on how huge he is. His most recent loves are DOGS! He goes crazy and just really can't stop talking (well, yelling) whenever he sees them! sooo cute! Same with balloons, which actually are around way more than you'd think. I don't think I ever realized that there were five or six locations in the mall with balloons in them....he goes nuts whenever he sees one and points enthusiastically gabbering like a fool. Really cute.

Sure do like my little family. Even Geoff. :) He's the dude who gets to keep the 'code pager' the next two weeks. (not the guy you want to have to show up for you if you're in the hospital) He puts the breathing tube in people that are 'coding'...among other things....and it can be a pretty stressful assignment. He also doesn't get home til almost seven....and I guess I've really gotten spoiled, because that's about three hours toooo late!

Let's pray this house sells soon so I can sleep...or at least worry about something else for a while!

House for Sale

2009-01-29T06:52:00.000-08:00

Mine, actually. Never have I felt so violated! Those of you who know me well, know that I am no fan of clutter....on the 'outside'. I am the woman whose home you walk into and think..'how does she keep it this clean with three small children?" (ok, it's not that clean looking most of the time, actually) but here's my secret: JAM-PACKED CLOSETS! Really. It's that simple. In fact I am so disorganized that all my boys (Geoffrey included, much to his dismay) have some obnoxiously long and hideous fingernails currently because I simply don't know where our fingernail clippers are! (why can't they just bite them like the rest of us?) (yes..we DO have more than one pair!) Did I stash them in some drawer? Toss them in the trash?? More than likely yes to both! Yikes! this is confession time here I'm feeling 'freer' already!

so...that's where I've been, lately. Decluttering those closets and searching for nail clippers. I refuse to buy another pair because just after buying another pair of scissors I have found NINE pair of scissors and scissor type product around here in the last week.

Scary stuff, I know. Sorry, ma.

Happy New Year

2009-01-02T04:51:00.001-08:00

We rang in the New Year at the Grady household. (thanks, Gradys) The Rotzoll's and the Kochan's were also there for some 'fellowship'. It was a great time...despite the fact that Geoff was post-call, and spent alot of the time asleep on the couch upstairs. (the guy knows

how to party..what can we say?) NO party is complete without some Kung Fu Panda, Guitar Hero, toe painting..and perhaps some Dance, Dance Revolution! (sorry there's no photographic evidence of that one...) Good times!

My Sweet Reagan

2009-01-02T04:42:00.001-08:00

Reagan's really gotten into getting her picture taken lately. She, however, just likes to make some crazy faces for them! Here's a taste.

Christmas....2008

2009-01-02T04:25:00.000-08:00

We had a pretty good Christmas around here. Christmas Eve was a bit of a downer because Geoffrey is working in the SICU...which means 30 hour shifts. (They're supposed to be 24 hour shifts....but it never really works out that way...let's just call them what they really are, k?) Anyways. He was gone all day Christmas Eve, and I spent most of the day CLEANING CUPBOARDS while Brooks, Reagan, and Greyson played unusually well together for most of the day. We were suprised that Geoff was able to come home at 9 am instead of the 2pm that we thought he'd return..so that was pretty cool. I must say I made a pretty good turkey dinner...with all the fixin's!

Here's some photos of the children opening their gifts and just being the goofy/lovable Taylors that they are!

Home Again, Home again....

2008-12-16T11:48:00.000-08:00

Well, we're back. If I hadn't lost our really good camera (along with my iPod) a couple of days before Thanksgiving you'd see pictures of my awesome family and maybe even a few mountains!!!
Iowa's COLD to come home to! No offense, Iowa...but..seriously! This is a mean way to welcome a gal!

Attention!!

2008-12-03T08:58:00.001-08:00

It has come to my attention that I haven't really let you in on the fact that we're moving to Montana ...probably in June! Geoff has accepted a job at Benefis Hospital in Great Falls, Montana.

Can you say, 'light at the end of the tunnel???" woohoo!!! We're super blessed and excited for this job, but also feeling the sting of saying goodbye to Iowa and the awesome friendships we've formed here over the past nearly ten years!!!

So...that's the announcement...officially...finally! :) I guess I tell you just the details and not the big points, huh?

2008-12-01T09:54:00.000-08:00

somehow my blogsite is in Spanish for my sign in...just so you know. I'm not exactly sure how that happened, or how to change it back, but I'm thinkin' those four years of Spanish in highschool have finally shown to be useful a little.

but..that's not why we're here.

Why ARE we here???

I don't know..but...I wish I had some cool pics to post or something interesting to say. I feel super ANXIOUS for the upcoming move to Montana...and have soOOO much to do....right this very second, like.....take showering for instance....that would be one of them...before Reagan's out of school..and Mrs. Vahle sees me AGAIN looking the fright.

Anyways, Happy Birthday Athena....I love ya!!!
and....

I miss you, Geoffrey...tons!

and...

I can't wait to head to Montana this Friday!!!!

and....

that's all for now.

2008-11-22T03:00:00.001-08:00

Geoff's home for the weekend, so...that's pretty cool.

Pukey all doney

2008-11-18T16:39:00.000-08:00

Big hoorays for that. We just have 'colds' to deal with here. Reagan and Greyson, mostly..but I think they'll make it. Especially since Reagan just got results from the immunologist and has a completely (almost) NORMAL IMMUNE SYSTEM!!!!!!!

That's somethin' to dance about!

yuck

2008-11-16T18:30:00.000-08:00

Geoff's in Des Moines. Greyson's puking...and Reagan's a sicky, too. I hope she doesn't commence puke factory, too! ick.
just ick.

So Thankful.

2008-11-14T19:49:00.000-08:00

Brooks and I had quite a clash yesterday morning before school. He was VERY angry with me and did something that was very disrespectful/not allowed in the Taylor house.
He was sent to his room.

For the first time that I can remember, when I went into his room to talk about what had happened, and retrieve my apology, Brooks was crying. (ok, not weird that he was crying, but this wasn't 'mad cry'..this was....genuinely sad cry) He was so very upset with the whole situation. He told me that he had done something very bad, and was going to have to go to hell! What?? I quickly explained to him that he had been forgiven..he didn't need to worry about going to hell. He rebutted with, "but it was REALLY bad what I did, mom!". I quickly pointed out to him that there were people sitting in prison right now that had killed someone, but because they had repented of their sin, they would one day be in heaven, with Jesus.....just because they genuinely asked him for forgiveness. He was amazed. We've been talking about this ever since he was teeny,...but it's awesome to see him learning soo much through the Holy Spirit. Geoff got home from work right at this same time...and quicky reiterated all that we had spoken about.

Grace.

Tough stuff to wrap your mind around....even for adults!

So Thankful.

terrible.

2008-11-11T18:25:00.000-08:00

wow.
I'm really a neglectful blogger lately. It just seems like there's no TIME lately! Geoff's been working nights last week...and this weekend I mentioned to him that I was sure feel 'disconnected' from him lately. He quickly pointed out that he worked 90 hours last week! Think that might have had something to do with it??? He's working nights again this week...and then Sunday leaves for Des Moines for a month to get more 'cardio-thoracic' experience. While I'm grateful that he'll be able to get some more heart cases under his belt before being out on his own very soon...it's gonna be lonesome. Anyone wanna come visit???

Trick Or Treat...

2008-11-03T13:02:00.001-08:00

Oh! The kids had SOO much fun!!! We went to our awesome friends the Grady's for some quick pizza and then off to trick or treat! The weather was perfect..almost eerie :) Now.. I just need this candy outta my house!!! That's the true scary part!

We finished off the night with s'mores around the firepit..what fun!!! Thanks, Gradys, and Rotzoll's...SOO fun to hang with you guys!

Reagan Prayers

2008-10-29T04:41:00.000-07:00

"Dear Lord,
Sorry that you had to die on the cross so much for our five senses."

How do I NOT crack up??

Me Moron.

2008-10-21T14:13:00.001-07:00

Okay...you'll look below at the pictures and see that they're not in any sort of order and there are several repeats!!! Greyson is wiping his nose on my leg as I type..and Brooks is trying to fanagle ( I don't even know at all how to spell fanagle) anyways, Brooks is trying to persuade me to write his book report for him.
The marathon...
It was LONG. Really LONG. Did I say that earlier??? Cause I honestly thought my time would have been alot better, and was worried that it wouldn't be. And I really can't get myself to care! (mainly because I'm afraid I'd have to do it again to try for a better time!). It's long. The first half was okay. I had trained up to mile 20.09 three weeks ago, and had been 'tapering' back the past couple of weeks. I have a greater respect for people who run these things in general....and I'll cowtow to (is it kowtow?) to anyone who runs them with any sort of speed! In one of the photos you can see my arms swinging...but my feet look like they're barely in front of each other! For the last couple of miles...my legs really just literallly wouldn't go. any. faster! We rounded a corner with 0.3 miles to the finish. It's like just down your street probably....you could SMELL the finish line....and I gave it everything I had...........and a tall man was walking next to me.. Yes! WALKING!! I was afraid someone would get us in a picture together....here'd be me running (or at least attempting to) and then RIGHT next to me would be joe bloe walky man. Yikes. So.....decided to give a full throttle.......nada. It's tough. I'm not doing it again. I'm thankful for the experience...or at least to have it checked off my list! What have I learned???

I really CAN do ALL things through Christ...who gives me strength.

Photographic Proof

2008-10-21T13:54:00.000-07:00

Des Moines Marathon

2008-10-19T17:08:00.001-07:00

It's over. I'm still alive. And I'm never doing it again. Ever.
Remind me, k?? Pics to follow when I'm more awaker:) Thanks for the prayers! It was a far cry...and I think I'll just drive it next time.

Picture Catch up...Hawkeye Game

2008-10-10T12:08:00.000-07:00

Here's the Hawkeye converts for a day. Brooks would be sooo 100% Hawkeye supporter if he could have Geoff's blessing. Our awesome friend, Matthew, treated the fellahs to a Hawkeye game. They had an absolute BLAST!!! You rock, Gradys!!!

We're back....

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

Actually, we got back on Sunday afternoon. I can't even tell ya how grateful we are to Bev (Aunt B) for driving all the stink over here to watch our kids!!! They had a blast with her, as always! Thank you, Aunt B!!! You're the greatest!!!

And so now....we wait. It's what we do! Kinda getting used to it. It's a little overwhelming to think of all the things that need to be done between now and the end of June! For now..I'm concentrating on panicking about the marathon that's coming up the WEEKEND AFTER NEXT!!!! are you kidding me?? Where'd the time go???

We had a great time in Great Falls with our great friends, The Oettels, from med school. Dave's stationed at Malstrom Air Force base there in Great Falls..and we're encouraged by how much they like it there. Again....we'll see!!! But for now...we're just grateful for the opportunity to have gone on a FREE vacation together...check out a great job....and see some great friends and mountains!!! (okay..I am stressing some...but I've only had a FEW M&M's today...not the whole bag kind of stressin'...yet)

going to montana...

2008-10-02T08:57:00.001-07:00

TODAY!!! woohoo!! just Geoff and I!!! He's interviewing in Great Falls, and my LOVELY and brave and wonderful sister, Bev, aka 'Aunt B' will be here watching the hoodlums! Be back Sunday!

Decoratious!!

2008-09-30T09:33:00.000-07:00

Reagan and I pulled a few Fall decorations out of the "closet of terror and doom" (aka storage closet..but if you saw it...you'd know how it got it's name!) She was sooo excited to be placing some pumpkins and acorns on the living room shelves. "This is soo cute, and soo decoratious!" she said to me. I just love that girl!

STAR OF THE WEEK

2008-09-25T12:06:00.000-07:00

That would be...one Brooks Taylor! :) He's really excited to be the "star of the week" at Heritage this week. We got to make this dandy poster and I got to go eat lunch with him on Monday. This tent is where I found the classroom READING when I arrived for lunch on Monday. How fun is that?? We never did such fun things when I was in second grade!!! go Miss Early! :) (we love her and our new school!! Tons!!!)

2008-09-25T12:05:00.000-07:00

Football and what not

2008-09-25T12:01:00.001-07:00

Brooks is quite the football player and is really loving being a part of the Redskins this year.

Mad House

2008-09-24T04:09:00.000-07:00

That kinda sums it up around here. I had an email asking if we were doing okay (thanks, Makila :) And yes, we are!!! Just been busy..as I'm sure you all are, too!

Poor Greyson doesn't have a nap schedule anymore.....my fault! Feels like we're either coming or going most of the day as of late. Perhaps we need less extra curricular?

"Itchy, Bitchy Spider"

2008-09-14T18:43:00.000-07:00

Went up the water spout......

That's what Reagan was singing tonight while she was in the tub.

Love that!

The Baby...

2008-09-13T18:21:00.000-07:00

The Baby...

2008-09-13T18:07:00.000-07:00

gettin' big, huh? oh....he's SOO sweet!

She loved it-loved it!!!

2008-09-11T04:51:00.001-07:00

So glad Reagan has a girly thing of her own!!! She keeps asking when she gets to wear make-up!! kinda bribed her by telling her they get to wear make-up to the recital)

Hannah Montana.

2008-09-08T18:47:00.000-07:00

Reagan's all about her now.

How'd this happen? What happened to Dora? Winnie the Pooh? Clifford??

Hannah Montana?? That's big kid stuff.

Reagan starts dance tomorrow night.

She's got her 'tap shoes....ballet slippers..and leotard all revved up!!!

oh...there'll be pictures!

Tah Down!

2008-09-08T18:46:00.000-07:00

Greyson says that now. Often. Cute! He runs around the living room with a ball (any kind will do..even a superball!) and hollers out "Tah-Down!!" I'll try to get it 'caught on tape!'.

I love him.

Brooks has made an announcement.

2008-09-08T18:42:00.001-07:00

It's sad, really. Brooks announced from the back of the van yesterday that he no longer is a fan of NASCAR. Will I miss NASCAR? well, no..not at all. I had noticed that he really hasn't asked to watch it for quite some time....but it was rather neat that it was soo him (Geoff and I both pretty much despise NASCAR). So..the NASCAR era is behind us.

He DID say a few weeks ago...that he was entirely unable to sleep during the night because he was 'just too pumped for football season!"

He really IS a Taylor! :)

24 hour shifts.

2008-09-06T18:34:00.000-07:00

They're just too long. I've decided that. Too long. Bad idea.

Sarah Palin...

2008-09-04T03:56:00.000-07:00

I heart her! I can't help myself!

"Grace to grace..."

2008-09-03T06:48:00.000-07:00

lately I have felt soo 'icky'. Needy, desperate....ICKY! Just simply, icky. I stumbled across Beth Moore this morning on tv...talking about grace. She was reminding me how MUCH I've been forgiven, and how when we don't live under grace, that we got back to trying to live under the law...and when we live under the law...we try to hold others to the 'law'. Does anyone get this??:) I haven't been living/receiving/remembering grace! She also said something totally cool to me..that's an awesome reminder...cause I've been feeling like an empty tank. PEOPLE TREAT US THE WAY THEY FEEL about THEMSELVES! Does that help you like it does me? Do you love to be liked as much as I do???

When we walk under grace, remember how much we've been forgiven..and how much the creator of the universe is in love with us.....we're covered with a double dose of 'non-stick' coating! I love that. I know I need that. Butter flavor would be preferable! When we walk in grace....we GIVE grace...cause He'll fill us to overflowing. I"m the worst at putting that into words..and probably even worse at living it...but I wanted to write it, before I forgot it!

Here's to hoping to live that today..if even for a second. What an awesome reminder!

Just had a scary thought....

2008-09-01T07:08:00.000-07:00

If it's September now.....that makes my marathon in ONE MONTH!!!!! October used to be soo far away! Yikes!!

Tomorrow's September 1!

2008-08-31T10:59:00.000-07:00

Can I put my cranberry-lookin' wreath out?? I LOVE fall!!! can I, can I, PLEASE?

Premature Fall Outing.

2008-08-31T10:55:00.000-07:00

Angie, my dear friend from Des Moines came down yesterday while her hub and daughter went to the Iowa game! I'm soo glad they have season tickets....cause we get to do this again, I hope! :) Anyways...we went to the apple orchard and got a few ugly apples that taste really good. I was hoping for the honey crisp..but we were three weeks early on that. We'll be BACK! Here's some pics of the adventure!

Make that..."BIG DADDY WEAVE!" Ooops!!!!

2008-08-31T10:45:00.000-07:00

I'm really good when it comes to names of bands. Even if I attend their concert, apparently. Impressive, no?

David Crowder Band.......fun with the "Pents"

2008-08-30T17:34:00.001-07:00

Once again the Taylor kids got to show off their serious dancing skills in the public eye. (and to think they haven't even had lessons)! Brooks and Reagan had a rockin' time (well, we all did, actually) at the park Sat. night with some awesome friends from church/school...and the David Crowder Band! Gotta love free outdoor concerts!

Good Timing....God Timing???

2008-08-29T02:48:00.001-07:00

Geoff was asked to interview in Helena, Montana yesterday...another place that's been high on our list!

woohoo!

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

2008-08-28T06:34:00.001-07:00

Geoff and I have claimed that verse again and again over the past fourteen years of marriage and we're clinging to it again!
Kalispell has gone ahead with another candidate who is able to start much earlier than Geoff would be able to. They haven't entirely closed the door, and said they may still be hiring next year...so keep in touch! But..as many of you, my 'medical friends' know...it's rather risky to wait such a long time for a job!

Glad to know.

Glad it's only August.

Glad to even be in this dilemna...what a blessing, really!

oh! And Brooks is LOVING second grade at Heritage Christian School!!! His teacher is holding him to such a higher standard than he's used to...so it's taking some getting used to....but he loves it despite the challenge...and we couldn't be happier with his progress already!

Greyson's latest word is "touchdown". It sounds alot like ta-don!!...but he's thrilled with it nonetheless.

Reagan wishes everyday was preschool. She simply can't get enough!

I'm tired. That storm this morning was a doozy! I guess that's all the news to report for today.
Love you guys! (all three of you!)

Oh..and Pray for Cory and Danny (bf from med school) they're in Ethiopia picking up the DAUGHTER they're adopting!!!! Pray for safety..please! :)

Anxious.

2008-08-25T09:21:00.000-07:00

I am it. I'm that. I'm anxious. I'm tired of it..and it's just the beginning. Anxious to know where we're going to be living at this very time next year. Anxious for Greyson to be safe on the stairs! Anxious for the marathon to get here. Scratch that..anxious for the marathon to be OVER! :) There. I said it. I'm anxious!

Did I mention that I'm anxious to know where we're going to move next year?

"Cow's Bell"

2008-08-23T06:39:00.000-07:00

also known in some circles as Kalispell...should be getting back to us on Wednesday (also known in some circles as our 14 year anniversary) We welcome and will not turn away any prayers that you may offer, as well as babysitting services that you may provide, free of charge, of course...with no obligation to recipricate. ha!

Greyson found some evidence of "Fall"

2008-08-18T08:56:00.001-07:00

oh....and I got this pic of Brooks and Reagan playing some 'tackle football' in the grass last night!

First Day of School!!!

2008-08-18T08:51:00.001-07:00

Brooks (2nd Grade!) and Reagan (MWF preschool 8:30-1:30!!) started back at school today. They were both soo excited this morning! This first day is gonna be a short one (out at 11:40) Reagan really wanted to "match" with Brooks..thus the 'green' shirt she picked out to coordinate with her brother! At least it wasn't Spiderman, huh? Can't wait to hear how there day went! It's really quiet around here....I can hear the dryer!

Kalispell Update!!!!!!!!

2008-08-14T05:05:00.000-07:00

nothing. still haven't heard.

still waiting.

anxiously......

Fun in the Park...

2008-08-09T13:03:00.001-07:00

Adventureland

2008-08-09T12:59:00.001-07:00

oh...it was soooo hot! yes..the bangs are wet from SWEAT! It was 108 heat index.....maybe it wasn't such a great idea?? but..the kiddos had lots of fun nonetheless. Thanks for the screamin' deal on the tickets, Angie!

Picture Catch up....lotttttttssss of pics, sorry!

2008-08-04T11:47:00.000-07:00

Cousin Photo...Take One, Two, Three, and Four.

Who knew it would be this impossible??? I love the look on my mom's face. Everyone just kinda took off there. Too busy for this nonesense! (I think Brooks got punched somewhere along the way by Grey)

Kalispell.......ah....glorious Kalispell

2008-08-04T11:42:00.001-07:00

and a few of the homes we looked at while we were there.....we SOO hope they give Geoffrey a job! C'mon...Kalispell! (or, "Cow's Bell...as my hair lady thought)hehe

First pic is of the hospital there....the pool shot is the view from where we ate lunch with the 'group'. say a pray!!

The "Taylor side" of the Taylor Clan

2008-08-04T11:36:00.000-07:00

Emily's Beautiful Wedding...

2008-08-04T11:32:00.001-07:00

Going to Montana!

2008-08-04T11:29:00.000-07:00

Early Morning Wake up Call

2008-08-04T11:17:00.000-07:00

Our flight for Billings, Mt. left at 0600..which meant we had to wake the kiddos up at 3:45~am...Geoff thought it would be fun/funny to take some pics of the excitement

Three Generations!!!

2008-08-04T11:15:00.001-07:00

My Grandma Yadon, Mom, and Me....at the weddin'. Found my memory card!!! hoooray!!!

Brooks and Reagan gettin' their groove on...

2008-07-30T13:01:00.001-07:00

Montana, Montana...glory of the west...

2008-07-30T12:59:00.001-07:00

this was the backdrop to my neice Emily's wedding. Wish I hadn't lost the memory card..cause I had some BEAUTIFUL pictures of her! (just imagine, k?)

Greyson is ONE!!!

2008-07-30T12:51:00.001-07:00

just how did this happen?? Greyson celebrated his first birthday with a 'pool' party in Billings, Montana. Lots of family was there to help him eat birthday pizza and cake....and cool off in the little pool. I even got to see a great friend from highschool that I hadn't seen since....'91? yikes, I'm old!

here's the little man takin' in some cake and pizza..and a little dip to boot.

Home again..home again.....

2008-07-28T11:15:00.000-07:00

we made it back home. It was a FABulOUS...and I DO mean fabulous trip!!! Kalispell was even better than I was expecting and seeing our family is ALWAYS a good thing. Dummy me lost the memory stick of our camera...so the pics of Kalispell are lost, along with the whole first part of the trip. Dangit!

I'll post more in detail later. I'm sure you're on the edge of your seat.

God's soo good.

packin'

2008-07-20T03:38:00.000-07:00

that's what we're doing around here today. Geoff's on call today. (thank God its not 24 hour!) woohooo!

Alas....

2008-07-17T11:52:00.001-07:00

Short Hair

2008-07-14T17:42:00.000-07:00

Reagan got some.
Pictures pending...

Memory Lane

2008-07-14T06:14:00.000-07:00

Hey..this is a 'tag' from my friend, Christie..a simple tag! All you have to do is leave a comment on my blog with a memory you have about you and me. If you leave a comment on my blog I'll assume you're "game" and leave one on your blog as well! Fun!?!

booger.

2008-07-12T12:54:00.000-07:00

geoff," what is that, brooks?"

brooks, "booger."

geoff, "gross, go put that in the garbage!"

brooks, "k, back!" (1/2 second later)

geoff, "that was pretty fast, did you put it in the garbage really?"

brooks, "oops, no. i just put it on the carpet."

geoff, "gross, go put it in the garbage!"

brooks, "k. there. i did it!"

brooks (a few seconds later), "well, i couldn't really find it, so i just put something else in the garbage."

gross.

see?

see what i live with??

ew.

We did it!

2008-07-10T07:36:00.000-07:00

we left the house. HOooray for us! We went to the pool with our dear neighbor, Kristan (gotta love that beauty of a name) and Lydia..her sweetie three year old. the kids were thrilled...especially Greyson. He didn't ever want to get out!
We might just do something again today! Over achievers, huh??

I DID mow already this morning..AND shower! I think this weather makes me want to melt into my house and not come out! No me gusta extremes!

the house

2008-07-08T19:29:00.001-07:00

we need to get out of it tomorrow.

that's all I can say about the house.

Reago This Very Day...

2008-07-07T10:11:00.001-07:00

Happy Four Year Anniversary, Reagan!!!

2008-07-07T09:51:00.001-07:00

It's 'heart day" here today! That's such a good thing! I think it's our very best thing we ever have had to celebrate. On this day, July 7, 2004 Reagan received her open heart surgery at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines...and started on the path to being a HEALTHY girl! We are always soo thankful on this day, and everyday to the Lord for bringing her through such a big surgery..and that she's here with us now...strong, healthy, and full of so much joy and love! We had the awesome support of soo many friends and our family! Thanks, everyone..for being Jesus to us..and propping us up during this most difficult time of our lives!
Reagan often thinks that either Daddy (geoff) did her surgery..or God himself. We rarely have the heart to correct her! She brings us soo much joy..and today, especially...we celebrate YOU, Reagan!!!!

parade pics.....among other things..

2008-07-07T09:46:00.000-07:00

Goofy Fourth Pics

2008-07-07T09:35:00.001-07:00

We had unseasonably wonderful weather over the fourth of July weekend. Dr. Stinky had a THREE day weekend.....which was heaven. Here's a few pics of the haps around here the past couple of days. We kicked off with the kids and I sleeping out in the backyard in the tent. We were even chilly by morning. Chilly! yes..in Iowa.....in July! But...today's stinky hot and humid. Back to real Iowa summer weather again!

We got to hang with our dear friends, the Grady's...some pics of them as well! And Cindy and her kiddos with us at the big parade in Coralville (tons of candy was raked in by all)

Happy Fourth!

Red-Tailed Hawk

2008-07-02T10:21:00.000-07:00

That's the bird, in case you were wondering. I was berated by my Montana cousin for not knowing that! Love you, Jaclyn! :)
he's still hanging around each morning on the neighbor's roof..and driving all the "little birds" crazy! I'm amazed by how 'brave' they are to peck at him while he sits on the roof and acts like he doesn't even know they exist. They must be humiliated that he ignores their taunting...I'm embarrased FOR them!
What a humid day. YOu know I'll be griping about how 'fly-away' my hair is..and how dry my skin is if we ever get to live back in Montana...remind me of the icky humidity then, k?
I gotta go find something productive to do with these little Taylors of mine.

Afternoon Hang out....I love these people!

2008-06-29T19:58:00.001-07:00

Name that bird...

2008-06-29T19:54:00.000-07:00

" Seriously, Mom!!! You gotta come SEE this bird!!" ..that's what Brooks said first thing this morning. He spied this raptor atop the neighbor's roof early early. He hung out with his other little bird friend and had all the neighborhood birds in a tizzy.
Anyone know what kind of bird this is???

11 Month Old Baby...

2008-06-27T05:52:00.001-07:00

Can you believe that Greyson's ELEVEN months old already??? Here's some pics just this morning of the lad.

2008-06-23T04:21:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was pretty great. For starters...we went to church as a family for the first time in about a month! (sick kids..Geoff had TWO 24 hour calls the past two Saturdays...etc) Greyson didn't make it in the nursery for more than 4 minutes...so he rocked out to the music...and we spent the remainder of the "sermon" listening from the lobby tvs.

Next I ran to Kohl's...where I purchased a "dressy" shirt for the resident graduation ceremony at Brown Deer (not John Deere...I had to back up there..because I have a reallly hard time saying brown deer for some reason) We had a babysitter! Yes!!! US!!! A sitter!!! She was great...and hopefully she'll be coming back Thursday night for a party at one of Geoff's "staff's" house. (I'm gonna be needy another swanky outfit...help!) oh! and....I only spent 4 minutes in Kohl's!! that's what going without kids can do for a panicked girl that has NO time to shop or try on clothes! got a shirt...and earrings!...four minutes...no lie! and...I tried it on even!
anyways.....I'm obviously rambling! There's the Brookster...up for the day.

but...we DID go to the North Liberty pool last night! What a great little place with a zero depth entry...lots of squirty things, floaty things...and water slides..all for SIX BUCKS for the whole fam! (were you expecting pictures?? sorry!)

Happy Monday!