OUTnumbered & IN My Glory!

T minus 13 days and counting...

2009-08-18T19:18:00.000-07:00

How can it be that in less than 2 weeks school starts back? And this year 2 of my boys will be in school all. day. long. That will be quite an adjustment for me, and as hard as it will be for me, it will be twice as hard for Ty to have both of his older brothers away all day. Wow, the summer has just flown by so fast.

We had a wonderful family vacation at Bethany Beach last week. Hope you enjoy a few pics from the week! I'll post more when I have more time.

Photo shoot fun and the 4th!

2009-07-02T18:15:00.000-07:00

Thanks to some wonderful and VERY talented friends (M & H -- thanks a ton!!!!), our little family had a photo shoot as part of Kevin's Father's Day present.

I have been desiring a nice family photo for some time, but let me tell you ... taking 4 boys to get photos done in a studio is just. NO. FUN.!!! Somehow, trying to get them to pose prim & proper and smile big just leads to wrestling and acting goofy until one of them gets hurt. Use your imagination a bit and I'm sure you'll get a clear picture of the chaos I'm talking about.

Well, this photo shoot was different. We went to our friends farm and did some outdoor shots on their property ... near old barns, etc. And, they did an amazing job of capturing all of us in our natural expressions. It was so laid back and we all had fun, once we learned to relax (I'm not sure I ever really fully relaxed, but I tried -- I hate to get my photo taken, I'm just NOT photogenic! Ugh!).

Anyway, thanks Mark & Heather for sharing your talents with us! And, thanks to your kiddos for sacrificing time with you so you could bless us. We absolutely LOVE the photos!

Hope you all enjoy some of my favorite shots:

As we enter into the weekend of the 4th, let's remember to take a few minutes to give thanks for the men & women in uniform who won't get a long weekend w/ family ... their job is 24/7 and comes with so, so many sacrifices, more than I can even imagine. I personally take this country and our freedom for granted at times because it is all I know. When I purposely stop and think about what life might/would be like in another country my heart is filled with thanks and gratitude. I truly am honored to be a citizen of this great country and appreciate each and every man and woman who has served and is currently serving in the military to ensure we continue to maintain our freedom!

From our family to yours, Happy 4th! God bless America!!!

Stop! Summer is going too fast!

2009-06-30T21:45:00.001-07:00

Well, as you know if you check my blog, I've been MIA (missing in action). This summer has been filled with all kinds of fun ... it's just flying by too fast!

June marked the last day of school for my boys and the end of a great baseball season for Jackson & Isaac. And, great news ... their "hot" coach that I mentioned in an earlier post ... well, we're on very "friendly" terms, if you know what I mean! (don't stress ... the hot coach happens to be my hubby!)

In mid June we welcomed some out of town/state family! We had a blast with the Kreider's from TN, the Hostetter's from AZ & Uncle Ed and Happy the dog from Pittsburgh! Our boys were so sad & weepy when their cousins left though, which was hard to see. They just LOVED having them close by and it was just so sweet to watch them play together and see the bonds and memories forming right before our eyes. We promised them that we'd try our very best to visit TN & AZ sometime in the near future. We just need to plant one of those money trees in the backyard and pray, pray, pray for a mighty ripe harvest!

the gang of cousins!

June 20th was Parker's 1st birthday! I'm still trying to figure out how my baby became 1 year old already??? He continues to be such a little love and a pure delight! He is now officially crawling, loves any attention his big brothers show him, loves to play with his toys, doesn't miss a meal (ooh ... he's got some mighty yummy meat on his bones!) and recently has been very amused by putting his finger up his nose -- yeah, he's all boy!

Special (allergy accommodating) cake made by Grandma B.! Thanks, Grandma! You are the BEST!

The birthday boy after indulging in some cake!

having fun on his new fire truck!

Right after Parker's birthday, we celebrated Father's Day. My boys have the most wonderful, loving, patient, fun, giving, selfless father. I am so incredibly blessed as I watch this amazing man "father/parent" our children. And, in addition to celebrating him we also celebrated both of our dads, who are also fabulous grandfathers to our children. What a blessing!

Then, last weekend my sister took me to Philadelphia to see Beyonce in concert. It was a wonderful treat, although I felt OLD! Our hubby's met up with us after the concert and then we spent a relaxing weekend in Philly just hanging out and exploring a bit. We had a fabulous time. Thanks, sissy!

In our spare time, we've been enjoying some time at the pool! Jackson and Isaac have become even more comfortable than they were last year with swimming. They both can manage quite well in the deep end and are becoming very good swimmers. Tyler has made amazing strides in his comfort level of the water. Last year one of his favorite phrases was "I'll get in the pool when I'm grown up!" Well, I suppose 4 is grown up to him because this year he seems to be quite the little water bug! I love to watch him splash around and "swim." And, Parker likes to get his feet wet, but is not yet fond of getting too wet ... there's still plenty of time left of summer though.

I guess since it is after midnight (well past!), it is officially July already. Hard to believe, but I'm hoping that July is as fun as June was! I hope you are enjoying summer and managing, amidst all of the busyness that life can hold, to take time to enjoy the simple pleasures and savor each day and each moment spent with loved ones! Here's to the rest of summer! Good night!

Just a thought...

2009-06-05T16:36:00.000-07:00

I read this quote today and liked it:

"To the world you may one person, but to one person you are the world."

Hmmm...I might still be that "one person who is the world" to my baby, at least when his Daddy is not in the room. :>(

It's just so sad how a mother's status slowly disintegrates, huh? Can you tell all of this rain is making me gloomy? And, 2 of my babies are now officially in 1st grade and 2nd grade. I have NO idea how that can be possible ... for it seems that I just birthed their beautiful little 9 lb and 9 lb 10 oz little bodies of ultimate perfection and now they'll be in school ... both of them, all. day. long.! Boo-hoo!

No, really, I couldn't be prouder of my boys! Jackson and Isaac both had awesome school years! Ty had a great first year of preschool and Parker continues to delight and amaze us with his smiles and fun personality! Summer vacation has officially started! I am looking forward to all kinds of fun adventures with my boys! Bring. it. on.!

Want to party?

2009-05-10T21:28:00.000-07:00

Lady friends,

Want to host a fun, low maintenance, in-home Pretty Unique show (the company I'm a consultant for)? I'm hoping to fill some gaps in my calendar for the months of June, July & August. What a perfect way to earn fun, fabulous, FREE fashion accessories while enjoying a night with the girls. For more details or to book a show, leave me a message here or email me at Knhostetter@comcast.net.

To check out Pretty Unique's website go to www.Prettyuniquefashion.com. Note: You can view our most recent catalog, but just so you know ... when I do a show I come with many, many more cash & carry items besides what is listed in the catalog.

I hope to hear from you and promise to make the process fun and easy ... I LOVE helping ladies earn new accessories!

What a day!

2009-05-10T21:23:00.001-07:00

I awoke to breakfast in bed prepared by my boys. Breakfast was delicious and accompanied by the Sunday paper, some beautiful cards and a gift certificate for a manicure & pedicure. After breakfast, while still in bed, I enjoyed a back rub by Isaac -- my favorite little backrubber! Then, I had the pleasure of spending this incredible day outside walking around the Philadelphia Zoo with my honey and 4 of the world's most adorable kiddos!

It.was.glorious. I am blessed!

Mother's Day Weekend!

2009-05-08T22:17:00.001-07:00

It's 1:38 a.m. and I've just finished watching a movie. Because I can't sleep my mind is busy at work and one of my thoughts happens to be about Mother's Day, since this is the weekend.

You know, there were many Mother's Days that had a very "different" feel for me than this one does. Not because I wasn't happy to celebrate my dear mom, but because the very thought of the day made me feel robbed, empty and, frankly, hopeless. I carried a baby, fell in love with this being that was growing inside me and gave birth to him ... and then watched him die in my arms. From the time I was a little girl I envisioned being a "mommy" but this experience wasn't anything like what I imagined. Nothing. I was his mother, but I longed to hold him, love him and mother him. Consequently Mother's Day became a very hard day for me in the years following the birth of my first son. A day of ... dread, to be quite honest.

As I enter into this Mother's Day, I feel so thankful for the blessings the Lord has bestowed upon my life.

I am thankful to be actively fulfilling the role of Mother / Mommy / Mama. What a gift it is! It is my "career of choice," if you will. It is the job I longed for my whole life and it is what brings me fulfillment and joy. True joy. It is what I believe the Lord has for me. And I thank Him for entrusting me with this calling.
I am thankful for the 4 little living beings that I am Mommy to. Jackson, Isaac, Tyler & Parker. And, I am thankful for Kevin Mathew ... I know I'll see him again one day.
I am thankful for the man whose children I am Mommy to. Kevin. The love of my life, my best friend and soul mate.
I am thankful for my Mom, my friend.
I am thankful for many other Mothers whom I love!

I hope this Mother's Day your heart is filled with joy and peace. Mine is and I am so grateful.

Happy Mother's Day!

Happy Birthday Sweet Tyler!

2009-05-06T18:33:00.000-07:00

Jackson & Isaac "examining their baby" and anxiously ready to be big brothers.

Oh, how can you be 4 already?

How instantaneously a mother's heart can love ...

And baby makes 5! (Jackson 3, Isaac 2 & Tyler on his birthday!)

Notice the "it's a boy!" lollipop he's holding?

Dearest Tyler,

Four years ago, this very day, we welcomed you into the world, our family and our hearts! Your birth was so special to us because we didn't know if you were going to be a boy or girl! The Lord knew just what our family needed and we were thrilled to find out our precious baby was a BOY, a new baby brother for Jackson & Isaac. You were the peanut of this gang, weighing in at 8 lbs. 9 oz. Oh, how beautiful you were and are!

The second I saw you I was just just smitten over you! And, it didn't take long for your little "firecracker" personality to shine through ... that little personality of yours adds so much to our family. You can certainly hold your own next to your big brothers and could right from the start.

I just love to watch your priceless expressions and your fun-loving side -- you can be a real clown and love to make your brothers laugh. You are becoming quite the little athlete and artist, too. I love to snuggle up next to you and watch movies. It warms my heart to see the admiration that you have for your older brothers and the example you set for your baby brother. I appreciate when you want to be my "helper."

Tyler, I am so proud of you and I love you so very much! I am so thankful that God chose me to be your mommy! Happy 4th Birthday my sweet boy! I love you to the moon and back!

xoxo,

Mommy

4 Cuties!

2009-04-30T08:30:00.001-07:00

These 4 cuties have a way of bringing a smile to my face and joy to my heart like nothing else on this earth. I marvel in the fact that they each have such unique qualities and character traits that make them the special individuals they are ... true gifts from the Lord. As their personalities continue to unfold before my eyes I try my best to "speak each of their love languages" and hope they always feel my unconditional, indescribable, insurmountable, unmeasurable love for them. For each of them. They are each so different, yet I love them all the same. The gift of a mother's heart is pretty amazing, too.

Way to go, Dad!

2009-04-27T06:41:00.000-07:00

Forsyth Park, Savannah, GA - 2007

I'd like to give a shout out to my Dad (a.k.a. Pop)! As many of you know, my Dad has been through more than any person should ever have to endure. He shouldn't even be alive according to medical standards due to a major brain hemorrhage he suffered because of being on blood thinning medication. This incident has left him with permanent daily challenges ... although he's ALIVE (praise the Lord!), certain physical and/or mental things have become hard or impossible for him, things that many of us take for granted.

Recently Pop decided to give up smoking! I believe he's going on 3 weeks now with no cigarettes! Way to go, Dad! I'm so proud of you for this accomplishment! I value the example you've set for your 4 little grandsons who watch your every move and love their Poppy so very much!

I know that there is nothing you can't accomplish once you have your mind made up! You are a strong and loving man, Dad & Poppy! I love you!

Weekend!

2009-04-26T18:59:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! I've been a bit lax on blogging recently.

Life continues to be ... um ... fast-paced around here. We enjoyed a beautiful HOT weekend together as a family. It was quite relaxing ... went for ice cream on Friday night and enjoyed a visit by Grandma & Pop, watched 2 of my favorite baseball players on Saturday morning (and their hot coach!), took-in a Barnstormers game on Saturday night (or at least part of it), went to church today, followed by a nap, then some shopping, a family game of baseball, trip to the park and out for milkshakes! Ahhh ... it truly was a glorious weekend and I cherished the time with my family!

I'm already looking forward to next weekend! We'll be celebrating Ty-Ty's 4th birthday next Saturday! Wow, that is hard to believe!

Check back here later in the week or next week for some updated photos of my soon-to-be 4 year old and his brothers! (didn't have a chance to upload them yet!)

Hope you are well! Make it a great week!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-11T20:28:00.000-07:00

My boys - Easter 2007

Easter 2006 - Wearing my fav Easter outfits!

Showing some love, Easter morning 2005

Happy Easter to all of my loved ones! May you spend the day celebrating our risen savior and the new life this season brings!

We'll be celebrating, but with sick little ones! Jackson has croup and Ty & Parker both have colds. So, our festivities will take place minus my Mom & Dad, which I'm very sad about. Because of my mom's lung disease we thought it best that she not be around the germs that are lurking in our home. Mom & Dad, we'll miss you ... it won't seem the same without you, but you'll be in our thoughts and you are always in our hearts! We love you!

Despite this little "glitch" we still have so much to be thankful for, don't we? I love this time of year when everything begins to turn green again, the flowers begin to bloom, the trees begin to bud, daylight can be enjoyed a bit longer, the weather turns warmer (... hopefully that will happen soon!) and we have the promise of eternal life because of a savior that gave his life for us! Abundant blessings for sure!

Spring means ...

2009-04-01T21:05:00.000-07:00

Isaac getting a game ball from his all-time favorite Barnstormer, Quincy Foster!

... Baseball season starts! We have 2 very eager little Ryan-Howard-wannabe's around our house! Baseball officially starts this Saturday with the season's first practice.

Jackson & Isaac will be on the same team again this year -- the Braves! Kevin and I are excited that they can be on the same team, so we can both get to watch all of the games (versus one of us taking one to a game while the other sits at another game), but the boys announced last week that they think it is "dumb" to be on the same team. Whatever!

Anyway, I've heard the coach is really awesome, and a real "looker" too. I can't wait to see some of his techniques on the field. Hey, "eye candy" is always a plus, right?

I'll be sure to post all of the season's highlights. I'll keep you posted on that hot coach, too.

PS. The coach happens to be Jackson & Isaac's Daddy! :>)

Music to my ears!

2009-03-04T11:16:00.000-08:00

Well, my little wubba started muttering a very important word today! A word that I've been waiting a long time to hear, and let me tell you ... it is music to my ears! The word you ask? None other than "ma ma."

Just hearing him say it over and over again made some of today's tasks seem easier to take ... like picking up lots of little purple lollipop pieces off of my newly swept floor, trying to de-stain baby food off of my love's white shirt, wiping up baby throw-up off of a snowsuit and ME, and last but not least, cleaning smeared poop off of the toilet seat! Mind you, not all of the mentioned "tasks" were a result of my wubba (as he can't eat lollipops and he doesn't use the toilet yet).

It's all in a day's work, that is for sure! But, to hear those sweet words for the first time make me realize what a gift it truly is to be the mother of my 4 boys, and it makes me treasure each and every moment with them!

What a Bunch!

2009-03-02T13:25:00.000-08:00

Front: Tyler
Back (from left): Jack, Mitchell being held by Maggie, JD, Jackson, Riley, Parker being held by Isaac

Last weekend we were invited to the mountains with our dear friends the Swarr's and our great friend's the Robinson's joined in on the fun, too. The ratio was 6 adults to 9 children ages 7 and under ... use your imagination and you can probably get a real close idea of what the weekend was like! Ha! No, really, it was a wonderful time of getting to know one another better -- the laughs were plentiful, the food was abundant and watching the kids run wild was priceless!

We are blessed to have such wonderful friends and look forward to a reunion weekend with this crew!

Thanks, Shawn & Katrina, for hosting us!

Say What!?@

2009-02-18T10:00:00.000-08:00

Today I had a large mole on my chin removed! Yeah! I went to a plastic surgeon to have it taken off and left with a pretty nice size incision on my chin -- about a 1" - 1 1/2" vertical cut -- with about 10-12 stitches in it. I am thankful to have the mole off of my face and am sure that I'll be even more pleased as it heals.

Anyway, Isaac told me that I "look like a pirate that had a sword cut his face!" Hmmm ... I've always tried to instill honesty in my children as one of their core character traits, yet at times, times like today, I wonder WHY ... children can be so brutally honest at times, huh? I did get a chuckle out of the comment though. I think the boys think I look cool with a big 'ol pirate battle scar on my face!

I just had to share that one with you all. I've got a baby to feed ... a baby that can't talk yet to tell me what a freak I look like, so I'll treasure the time with him.

Argh, mateys! Hope you all are having a swashbucklin' day!

Your friend,
The Pirate

Heavy Heart...

2009-02-07T20:39:00.000-08:00

Well, I'll warn you ... if you are reading this, this is going to be a different post for me. It's late and I can't sleep and thought perhaps if I "journal" some of what is going on in my mind, maybe I'll find the peace that I'm longing for. It's worth a try, right?

It was Tuesday morning of this week. It was a bitter cold day outside and it was snowing, a wet, dreary snow (snow, to me, is dreary in general ... I much prefer warm sunshine). I was driving to Narvon for a Pretty Unique show that I was doing. I was driving along not paying much attention to anything, just glancing at the directions I had in my hand, looking for the road that I needed to turn at when I saw it. A familiar white church ... and a small tombstone -- mainly because I knew exactly where to look -- because it wasn't overly visible from the road. And, a wave of emotions hit me in a very unexpected way! I wasn't prepared for it at all, which may be why it's been on my mind the remainder of this week.

It's left me longing to remember every little detail of his face, his tiny little body that I was able to hold for way too short of a time ... wondering what he would look like today -- at 15 years of age! Wondering if he'd be tall and blond like his Daddy, with eyes bluer than the sea like 3 of his brothers, or would he carry my dark features? Perhaps he'd be into sports and be able to teach his brother Isaac all of his "tricks," or maybe he'd, too, have a passion for learning, science and math like his brother Jackson. Maybe he'd be strong-willed and a "clown" like his brother Tyler. Or, would he be very easy going and content like his brother Parker? Oh, I just wonder what traits he would have that would make him "him!" One thing I know for sure ... he would have been loved and treasured and did I mention loved!

Tonight I feel sad that I never had the chance to learn what his favorite food would be, know what bedtime story would be his favorite, see how he'd write his name, hear him read a book, tickle his back, snuggle with him when he'd feel sick, feel my heart flutter at the sight of his smile. It makes me sad that I never got to be his mother.

It's crazy how a simple drive to a Pretty Unique party sparked a whole slew of emotions ... emotions that I haven't felt so strongly in a long time. Emotions that I rarely ever talk about to anyone ... but emotions that are real, too real.

I think of all of the joy that Jackson, Isaac, Tyler and Parker bring to my life. And, I feel blessed. I truly do. I feel grateful and happy and full; yet at times, times like this week, I can't help but think of how my life would be further enriched if he -- Kevin Matthew -- were here with us, living each day with us. Hmmm ...

Ahhh ... it was therapy for me to be able to get this off my chest. Perhaps I'll be able to get some sleep now...just as soon as I go kiss each of my sleeping munchkins.

I'll try to make my next post more of what you've come to expect. I do thank you for allowing me to share my heart tonight.

Which Hostetter boy is that?

2009-01-30T05:16:00.000-08:00

Can you guess which Hostetter boy is in each picture? See below for the answers, in case you get stumped!

Happy Friday!

Tyler, Jackson, Isaac, Tyler! I don't have any of Parker's shots on the computer ... sorry! But, for any of you who have been around Parker recently, you'll see the resemblance to him and Ty.

My, How Time Flies!

2009-01-29T08:13:00.000-08:00

Well, I realize that it has been FOREVER since I've posted. It sort of feels like I've been on a permanent snow delay!

January has been full of 2-hour delays due to icy roads ... not because of any real good snow for sledding, unfortunately! Well, these delays have proven to wreak havoc on my life. It seems that our home becomes one big fighting match and I become referee mom! Ah, it's tiring. Tyler has gotten used to having some time away from his brothers and he doesn't seem to conform well to having them around in the mornings. And, in true boy fashion ... Jackson and Isaac play off of Tyler's frustration and try their best to aggravate their little bro to the best of their ability. So, that is just one of the "happenings" that have been occupying some of my time recently.

Along those lines, a friend emailed this to me and I thought it was cute, although I have to admit ... it makes me a little bit leery of what may lie ahead with my 4 sweet boys!

This is for those mothers of boys, sisters of boys, and boys that have grown older. And anyone else who needs a laugh. Why boys need parents... !

You also find out interesting things when you have sons, like...

1.) A king size waterbed holds enough water to fill a 2000 sq. ft. house 4 inches deep.

2.) If you spray hair spray on dust bunnies and run over them with roller blades, they can ignite. 3.) A 3-year old Boy's voice is louder than 200 adults in a crowded restaurant.

4.) If you hook a dog leash over a ceiling fan, the motor is not strong enough to rotate a 42 pound Boy wearing Batman underwear and a Superman cape. It is strong enough, however, if tied to a paint can, to spread paint on all four walls of a 20x20 ft. room.

5.) You should not throw baseballs up when the ceiling fan is on. When using a ceiling fan as a bat, you have to throw the ball up a few times before you get a hit. A ceiling fan can hit a baseball a long way.

6.) The glass in windows (even double-pane) doesn't stop a baseball hit by a ceiling fan.

7.) When you hear the toilet flush and the words 'uh oh', it's already too late.

8.) Brake fluid mixed with Clorox makes smoke, and lots of it.

9.) A six-year old Boy can start a fire with a flint rock even though a 36- year old Man says they can only do it in the movies.

10.) Certain Lego's will pass through the digestive tract of a 4-year old Boy.

11.) Play dough and microwave should not be used in the same sentence.

12.) Super glue is forever.

13.) No matter how much Jell-O you put in a swimming pool you still can't walk on water.

14.) Pool filters do not like Jell-O.

15.) VCR's do not eject 'PB & J' sandwiches even though TV commercials show they do.

16.) Garbage bags do not make good parachutes.

17.) Marbles in gas tanks make lots of noise when driving.

18.) You probably DO NOT want to know what that odor is.

19.) Always look in the oven before you turn it on; plastic toys do not like ovens.

20.) The fire department in Austin ! , TX has a 5-minute response time.

21.) The spin cycle on the washing machine does not make earthworms dizzy.

22.) It will, however, make cats dizzy.

23.) Cats throw up twice their body weight when dizzy.

24.) 80% of Men who read this will try mixing the Clorox and brake fluid.

Night at Grandma & Pop's House! Ahhhh!

2008-12-30T19:14:00.000-08:00

I recently read a quote that went something like this, although I've customized it a bit...

If your boys are beautiful and perfect, never cry or whine, always mind their manners, are amazing geniuses and behave 'perfect', then you're the grandma!

On Monday night, my mom and dad kept Jackson, Isaac and Tyler overnight so that Kevin and I could have some time to relax and have dinner out! It was so very much looked forward to on our part! The night didn't go exactly as we had anticipated, but it still was a very enjoyable time and so nice to be able to catch up with each other over a nice dinner without counting how many more bites needed to be eaten in order to have a bedtime snack.

The boys had a wonderful time at Grandma and Pop's house! I don't even want to know how much candy they consumed, how much tv they watched or how late they stayed up. I know they were in good hands, and we have the rest of the week to whip them back into shape!

Thanks, Mom & Dad, for keeping the boys and for being the best grandparents in the world! The boys have no idea how blessed they are to have you as their Grandma & Pop!

A Fun Tradition

2008-12-22T18:38:00.000-08:00

When Jackson was 1 year old and Isaac was just a few weeks old my BFF, Chrissy, and me started a fun tradition with our families ... each year at Christmastime we ride the Santa Train together at the Strasburg Railroad. Thanks to Jimmy being a member of the Lion's Club, we are able to go by donating canned goods for a local food bank. This was our 6th year of doing this fun tradition, which our children have come to eagerly anticipate!

Here are some pics from the train:

Wubba's 1'st ride on the Strasburg Railroad!

Our gang! And, quite a gang it is! In back (L to R): Riley and Parker, In front (L to R): JD, Jackson, Ty & Isaac.

This pose was a remake of a pose taken several years ago when the boys were so much smaller. Although I don't have the earlier pic to post, it is fun for us to see how they've grown. It reminds me to cherish each day with them while they are little because time flies by so quickly!

My lovebirds! Not so happy to be posing, that is for sure!

Me and my honey! Oh, how I love him!

Tyler and the jolly red guy! On the way to the railroad Ty asked me how old I think Santa is. I replied that I really don't know, but that I'm sure he is old. Ty said he is sure that Santa is ... 45 years old! That's really old, huh, Mom? I swallowed hard and agreed ... with a smile on my face ...

This year we decided to make a day out of the tradition and went back to Chrissy's & Jimmy's house for lunch and some Christmas fun! I made 2 cute Christmas ornaments with the kids ...

... and Chrissy decorated and baked sandtarts with them ...

Tyler and Riley decorating their sandtarts!

Jackson was so neat and precise as he decorated his cookies.

My tray of sandtarts. Believe it or not, I never remember decorating sandtarts, ever. I did have fun decorating them! Perhaps I'll add them to my baking list next year.

My BFF Chrissy and her adorable, sweet daughter, Riley. I am so thankful to have a friend like Chrissy ... someone I can share anything and everything with! She is one of God's little gifts to me and I cherish our friendship! I also love that our children are so close now, too.

I hope that you will enjoy time with friends this holiday season!

The week of crashes

2008-12-18T11:14:00.000-08:00

Well, what a week it has been!

On Monday Kevin's Dad nearly cut off 4 of his fingers as a table saw he was working on "crashed" into his hand, or should I say his hand "crashed" into the saw. He had surgery later that day and at this point his fingers are all still there and the doctor is hopeful he'll be able to keep all 4 of them. He will most likely require another surgery on the index finger, which is the one that was injured most severly. Kevin's dad is such a hard worker. He is officially retired (for the 2nd time, mind you), but volunteers countless hours to a local thrift store which benefits some Mennonite ministries. He has such a gift to construct and do anything handy, which is what he was doing when this accident happened. I so greatly appreciate his work ethic, wisdom and love for the Lord, and I hope he heals completely and peacefully.

Then on Tuesday, as I was coming home from helping at the boys school, I had a little mishap in the bad weather. We spun out of control and "crashed" the van into a field! Thankfully, we landed in between the 2 telephone poles that were nearby. It was quite scary ... of course my first concern was for Tyler and Parker who were with me. When I looked back at Ty, his eyes got HUGE and he got this big smile on his face and exclaimed very excitedly, "Mom, we just crashed!" He kept that same excitement as he later told his big brothers and Daddy about what happened! And, when I got out to check on Parker, who didn't make a peep, he just looked up at me with his big, bluer-than-the-ocean eyes and smiled his typical beautiful, toothless grin! So, that was a huge relief to say the least! I am so thankful that the Lord was watching over us, because it could have been so much worse.

Then today, to top everything off, I was at the grocery store trying to fly through quickly to get some last minute items that I needed for dinner and baking and I "crashed" my cart smack dab into a lady's butt! Yes, dead center, smack ... right in the butt! She was a grandmotherly type lady. I felt horrible! She so graciously accepted the blame for stopping in the middle of the aisle, but it clearly was my fault ... it is so hard to see over Parker's seat, but I need to be more careful and not be in such a rush!

I'm hoping that we don't have any more "crashes" this week! I'm telling you ... there is NEVER a dull moment around here, and I mean NEVER!

What if?

2008-12-14T19:36:00.000-08:00

Do you know what would have happened if it had been "Three Wise Women" instead of "Three Wise Men?" The women would have asked directions, arrived on time, helped deliver the baby, cleaned the stable, made a casserole, and brought practical gifts!

Amen, sister!

We are Dressed Up!

2008-12-08T19:11:00.000-08:00

As Tyler says, "We are dressed up!" What he means is that our house is decorated for Christmas!

There is something so sweet and pure about a child's excitement around Christmas ... all of the lights, sweet treats and family gatherings! I just love this time of year! I especially love the anticipation and excitement that my children experience, and I love spending time with my family, making memories -- which to me is far better than any gift I could receive on Christmas morning!

Here's a little peak at our "dressed up home!"

Here is a wreath I made. I got the idea off of another blogger's site. It was easy to make and was just what was needed to bring some holiday cheer to the door leading out to our deck!

I love to decorate with natural things, like greens and berries!

More greens, which were clipped from our yard and Christmas tree! Cheap decorations!

And, fruits add such nice color! Again, a very inexpensive way to decorate

Our Christmas tree! When we went to pick out our tree, it was dark outside and raining. We didn't take much time ... my personal goal was to find a tree for under $30! When we got home and brought the tree inside, Jackson decided that he didn't like it. He said, "it's too skinny and it looks like an asparagus!" Once we got the lights and decorations on, he changed his mind though. For me, the more bare spots and imperfections the tree has, the better ... I think they add character to the tree! And, this year our tree has it's share of bare spots! But, I achieved my goal ... the cost of the tree ... $29.99!

I just love decorating the tree! I love to look at each ornament and reflect on where it came from or what special meaning each one holds! The white angel ornaments on our tree (above) are particularly special to me because I made them the Christmas of 1993 in memory of Kevin Matthew -- our infant son who was born and died that September. I also love each and every ornament made by my boys! They are one of my most treasured possessions!

A fireplace is meant to curl up in front of ... even if it's a gas fireplace!

I hope you have the opportunity this December to spend time with those you love -- be sure to make some treasured memories -- and thank the Lord for the special people in your life!

Countdown to Christmas

2008-12-08T18:50:00.000-08:00

It was the Christmas of 2002. Jackson was nearly 3 months old. My sister wanted to get me something special, since I was a new, doting mom who had fallen hard for this little miracle of a baby that I had given birth to a few months earlier. Knowing that I was (and am!) very sentimental and a big fan of tradition, my sister found the perfect gift for me ... a Christmas Advent Box that I could use with Jackson and any other little Hostetter children that came along after him. In addition to the Advent Box, my sister also gave me a "Twas the Night Before Christmas" book -- the very book that our mom read to us each Christmas Eve before bed when we were little girls!

This advent box is one of the best gifts I've ever received. It makes its big debut every year on December 1st and the boys squeal with delight when they see it! We already have so many cherished -- priceless -- memories involving this special box!

Our typical routine is that when the boys are all in their jammies, they come down and take turns opening the drawer for the night. They always get a note in the drawer with a piece of candy and sometimes a small gift. Some of the highlights for this year have been a Hot Wheel, some gel clings for them to decorate their bathroom mirror, gum, and a tablet/eraser/ruler/pencil set. Typically on the night before Christmas, I put in gold (not just any gold ... but the gold wedding band that my Pa-ee gave to my Ma-ee), frankincense and myrrh and then talk to them about how the wise men brought those gifts to the baby Jesus.

I love making memories with my boys ... and each night in December doing this Advent Box with them, counting down the days until Christmas, is such a special time for me and them!

Signed, sealed, but not yet delivered ...

2008-12-08T18:44:00.000-08:00

I know the photo is a little hard to read, so I'll translate ...

"I promise to bring my wife & kids home for Thanksgiving and Christmas each year because I love my Mommy & Daddy"

Just a little contract that we had our boys sign this Thanksgiving! What? You think they didn't understand what they were signing, huh? Well, I assure you ... we explained it quite well to them ... if they wanted to eat turkey, they needed to sign!

Gobble, Gobble!

2008-12-08T18:41:00.000-08:00

Take a look at the cute cupcakes that Isaac took to school for his birthday, which happened to fall the day before Thanksgiving this year.

Thanks, Mom, for searching high and low to find the candy corn for me! You are a lifesaver!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T06:33:00.000-08:00

Chances are if you are reading this post, then I am thankful for YOU!

May you take time this Thanksgiving day to reflect on all of the blessings in your life. For me, I am so thankful for my family and loved ones, a warm home, a comfortable bed, food to eat each day, clothes to wear, shoes, shoes, shoes! (jewelry & handbags, too!), freedom, and the list could go on and on.

Despite the state of our economy, we still have such an abundance of things to be thankful for ... so, dig deep into your heart and give thanks this Thanksgiving!

Happy Turkey Day!

Happy Birthday Sweet Isaac!

2008-11-25T19:39:00.001-08:00

Isaac a few days old

Isaac at 6 months old

Tomorrow, November 26th is my sweet boy's birthday! Oh, what JOY he brings to my life and to our family! He has such a sweet and sensetive personality, he's so fun-loving and passionate (can you say baseball?) and his big brown eyes could warm the coldest heart!

I was induced 8 days before my due date and Isaac was born weighing in at 9 lbs. 10 oz. He was born so fast that he came out with a bruised face ... it was as purple as could be for the first few days of his life! Have you ever heard of anything so crazy? I remember those early days of snuggling him in soft blankets and rocking him for hours! Wow, it has been fun and so rewarding to see how he has grown into the precious young boy he is today!

Tonight we plan to celebrate his birthday by going out for pizza with our friends the Robinson's, then we're all going to see Madagascar 2! We are looking forward to a fun evening! P.S. Thanks to Titi for keeping Parker for the evening!

Happy Birthday Isaac! I love you!

My Sissy

2008-11-23T21:19:00.000-08:00

Word has it that my darling sister, Stacie, has been waiting for an updated post ... insinuating that I've been "slacking off" on my blog. So, I've decided to make this post about ... HER! Stacie spent 4+ days in the hospital a week or so ago as she suffered a very severe allergic reaction to a medication she was taking. Thankfully, she is feeling better now!

Oh, where would I be without my sissy? And, how would my boys survive without their Titi?

We are so fortunate to live just 1 short mile from Sissy/Titi, so we see each other nearly every day! I look forward to her visits -- whether the visits are short or long, they always brighten my day. We are so different, yet so alike, it's almost scary sometimes. She helps to keep me sane when I feel overwhelmed in my work as a mom, she comes to my rescue when I need a babysitter or a listening ear, she is always honest with me (sometimes brutally so, ha ha!), she brings such joy to my heart as I watch her interact with and love my boys, I am proud of her as I watch her parent her 3 stepsons, she is my best friend and my only sibling!

Sissy, I love you to death and am so very thankful for you!

Reason to Celebrate!

2008-11-17T05:37:00.000-08:00

Today I will celebrate the birthday of the "one that I love" and 4 little boys will celebrate the birthday of their Daddy!

Kevin, You are the love of my life and I thank God for you each day! Thank you for working hard each day to provide for us. Thank you for the gentleness, patience and love that you so generously give to us every day. Thank you for being a loving, kind, playful and overall wonderful Daddy. Thank you for the way you live your life, as you set an awesome example for our 4 boys to follow. I love living life with you, parenting with you, being your wife and loving you!

On this day, I wish you a very Happy Birthday and pray the year ahead will be filled with much happiness for you! I love you with all of my heart and soul, and your 4 boys adore you!

Love, N.

History has been made!

2008-11-08T08:26:00.000-08:00

Dee having fun with the boys ... on a non-football day, of course! Go #80!

Not only has our nation elected its' first African-American President this week, but the Penn Manor Comets Football team won their first EVER 1st round of play-offs last night! And, as I mentioned in an earlier post, my darling nephew -- Demetrius Dixon, #80 -- is a part of this winning team!

It was a perfect fall evening for a football game last night and the Comets dominated the game and came away with a 42-7 victory over Dallastown! Round 2 of play-offs will take place next Friday against Cumberland Valley! Go Comets!

Did you ... ?

2008-11-04T14:08:00.001-08:00

So, did you vote today? It's not too late ... Let your vote count! I am eagerly awaiting to hear who the next President of the United States will be ...

Boys will be boys!

2008-11-03T11:13:00.000-08:00

Must be what they do while they wait for fires! I'm just glad they haven't tried setting any fires!

Did someone say ... food?

2008-11-03T11:05:00.000-08:00

My little wubba got his first 2 teeth this past week. They are barely through the gums ... just so slightly through that only a Mommy could notice, but they are through! The bottom right came through first, followed by the bottom left. And, in true Hostetter / Breniser fashion I figured if he has teeth, he might as well EAT! So, we started cereal this past week, too. A big week for the little man. He continues to have fun figuring out what to do with the cereal!

Phillies Phever & Hostetter's Halloween

2008-11-02T18:03:00.000-08:00

After 28 years (so my hubby tells me???) the Phillies are once again World Series champs! The results around here = a house full of happy Phillies fans!

Kevin and some guys from work took the train down to Philly on Friday to catch a glimpse of the Phils victory parade. The train was standing room only, there were 2 million fans packing the streets of Philadelphia for the parade, which means the view was less than desired. Hmmm... it would not have taken me long to find a nice, quiet shoe store to shop in while all of the crazy fans faught for a view of some guys wearing red jerseys. Go figure! Kev had fun though ... and, that is all that matters!

Kevin and the boys got all "geared up" in Phillies World Series gear on Saturday! They had a ball shopping for the items! We came home with shirts, hats and pennants. Kevin tells me that this could be a monumental year, as Penn State could be on their way to winning the national championship! I told him that I don't think we can afford another victory like that ... buying "gear" for 5 boys, after all that Phillies stuff! Oh well, I DO LOVE football, so I'd be a little more enthused! :>)

After recovering from all of the Phillies hype, the boys had fun getting all dressed up for Halloween! Take a look ...

One very scary, meanly-cute pirate!

One Phantastically-sweet "Shane Victorino!"

One soot-covered, brave and fearless, lovable little firefighter! And ...

One way too adorable, chubby little monkey!

Oh, how I love my boys!

Hodgepodge Update

2008-10-23T19:47:00.000-07:00

Wow! Time has gotten away from me ... it feels like a long time since I've posted an update! We've been busy around here. Let's see, what have we been up to?

Ty had a preschool field trip to a local orchard where he went on a hayride and got to pick an apple. It was a lovely fall day and I had fun going along with him. Ty goes to preschool on Wednesdays and is liking it more each week. It is hard for him to separate from us at times, but he seems to be tolerating it a bit better. He continues to be a little firecracker ... but that is how we love him!

Parker is now 4 months old! He had his check-up yesterday and weighed in at a whopping 20 lbs. 12 oz.! And, he grew 2 inches in the past month! He is w-a-y off the charts for both weight and height! I'm telling you, the boys thighs are the chubbiest, meatiest, CUTEST things I ever did see. He continues to bring such joy to our home!

Photo: Jackson & Isaac with their best friend JD (JD is my best friend Chrissy's son)

Isaac continues to love kindergarten! He especially loves writing workshop, and it is fun for us to see his writing skills develop more and more each week. I'm looking forward to helping in his class tomorrow for the first time this year! Isaac is excitedly cheering on the Phillies in the World Series! Go Phils!

Jackson, our big 1st grader, is reading better and better each day! He is gearing up for Saturday when he'll have a birthday party here at the house with 12 of his friends (including his brothers). We are hoping to be able to proceed with the planned birthday bonfire, however, we may be forced to move to "plan B" because of the pending forecast of RAIN!

Kevin and I have been busy keeping up with the boys. Aside from that ... we try to fit in sleep as we can! That's life at this stage, I guess! Oh, and Kevin, too, is passionately cheering on the Phils! Honestly, I could care less about the Phils, but I have no choice but to cheer them on!

Tough Loss...

2008-10-17T20:02:00.000-07:00

"Great teams work harder after a tough loss." -- Ron Brown

Next week is another game and hopefully a big win!

It's Football Friday! Go #80!

2008-10-17T05:14:00.000-07:00

I find myself excited that it's Friday! Not because of the usual anticipation of an approaching weekend, which means extra help/reinforcement by my wonderful husband, but excitement because of tonight's Penn Manor High School Football game! Penn Manor happens to have a current record of 7-0 and my adorable, charming, talented nephew happens to play on the team! Can you tell that I'm proud of him? I won't get too side-tracked, but let me just tell you ... this boy is an all-around "great package!" If I am so fortunate to have my boys turn out like he is at age 15, I will be one very happy, very proud Mama!

Kevin and I and our boys (all 4 of them!) have had so much fun attending the games this season and cheering on Demetrius!

We look forward to an updated record of 8-0 tomorrow morning after we whoop Warwick!

Go Comets! Go #80!

Soccer Moms Rule!

2008-10-13T08:36:00.000-07:00

Oh. My. Word.!!! Whoever thinks that 1st grade soccer isn't exciting ... well, clearly doesn't have a 1st grader who plays soccer! Jackson had a soccer game on Saturday and I was on the edge of my seat the whole time.

It's so sweet ... the players (especially Jackson) try to line up the ball JUST perfectly before shooting in the goal. Most times the other team steals the ball while they are trying to get the ball aligned! But these first graders play hard, have their hustle on and put their heart into the games. It's GREAT! I still have lots to learn about soccer, and let me tell you I'm eager to learn as Jackson (and perahps some of our other boys) play soccer in the coming years!

By the way, Saturday's game ended up in a tie ...

Go Red Vipers!!!

Food + Friends = Great Time!

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

Last night I was able to enjoy an evening out with my dear friends Chrissy, Laura & Kelly! We had a nice dinner and wonderful conversation, as always. I always come away from our evenings together feeling refreshed and a little more sane. I'm thankful for good friends.

Ladies, I treasure our time together! Already looking forward to our next night out!

Taste of Autumn

2008-10-08T10:26:00.001-07:00

Fall is in the air and although part of me would like to still be in sunny, beautiful Destin, Florida enjoying the warm gulf weather, I do love fall! This time of year is just so cozy. It makes me crave pumpkin pie, apple dumplings and caramel corn!

Well, yesterday morning I started a new ladies group at the church where Tyler attends preschool. As part of the snack, there was this wonderful dip that was served with gingersnaps ... it was about one of the best sweet snacks I've ever had and it just screamed fall! I'm including the recipe in case you want to try it. I haven't made it yet, but it sounds as easy as can be!

2 blocks cream cheese, softened
1 jar of caramel topping
3 Skor bars, chopped or 1 bag of Heath Bar (found w/ the chocolate chips in the baking area)

Mix cream cheese and caramel. Top w/ crushed candy. Serve w/ gingersnaps and/or apples!

My Wubba!

2008-10-07T09:31:00.000-07:00

Since today is the day I plan to email my newly created blog to friends and family, I thought I'd include a post on my sweet little wubba (as I like to call him) -- Parker Nicolas. I know many of you haven't seen him recently or at all. Let me just tell you ... he is such an "easy" baby, which has been so wonderful for our 4th! He is a true joy and I am cherishing every minute with him, although he's growing way too fast. He turned 3 months old on September 20th.

He's a thumb sucker -- the first of our 4 boys! It's just too cute!

His smile and sweet personality just melts our heart! I love being his mother!

Hope you are having a great day!

Ready, Set, Go!

2008-10-06T20:24:00.001-07:00

Well, I've been thinking about starting a blog and finally decided to just go for it! I'd much rather type than write in a journal, so if nothing else, this is an attempt to document some of my daily joys, stresses, situations, ponderings, happenings, etc. And, being the mom of 4 boys, I typically have plenty to "document!"

My son Jackson just turned 7 years old! In many ways it is hard to believe ... it seems just like yesterday that he was born; however, I can barely remember life before him! Crazy! Isaac is 5, soon to be 6 years old. Tyler is 3 and sweet baby Parker is 3 1/2 months old.

My husband and I celebrated our 15th anniversary at the end of August, and I feel incredibly blessed to share my life with this wonderful man!

I've been reminded many times recently that life ... every minute of each day ... is a gift. My goal has become to live each day in such a way that I'll have no regrets when I look back ... meaning no regrets with things I've said or things I wished I would have said, no regrets with the affection I've shown to those I love, no regrets with standing up for what I believe in, even if it isn't popular and no regrets with living each day the way the Lord would have for me.

I can't wait to share more with you!