Mandy B Stenberg

Willow House - Christmas Ideas!

2011-09-27T10:09:00.000-05:00

Believe it or not . . . it is time to start thinking about Christmas gifts. And I've got some ideas for you that could help make your shopping a bit easier this season . . .
Keep reading below, then check out my Willow House store . . . http://www.mandystenberg.willowhouse.com/

With this plan you can choose $557 in gifts for only $161 out of your gift giving budget. That is a total of 20 Christmas gifts, and a savings of nearly 70% off. Better than extreme couponing!

The Plan:
1. Book a party between now and the first week of December
2. Take 5 outside orders or web orders
3. Have a minimum of 10 to 15 guests at your party

You will receive (Based on $1,000 party):
* $250 in FREE MERCHANDISE
* 4 items at ½ Price
* Flat shipping & handling rate of $9.96
* ANY one item at 70% retail

Here is an example of one customer’s gift giving list after hosting a $1,000 party:

Mom
Bellemead Flatware Caddy (pg. 14)

Mother-in-Law
Jamestown Tray (pg.18)

Grandmother
Decorative Card & Photo Display (pg. 20)

Sister
Annabelle Iron Bookstand (pg. 8)

4 Teachers
Yuletide votive Holders-set of 4 (pg. 51)

Father
Scrollwork Oversized Throw (pg.17)

Father-in-law
Hampton Rain Gauge (pg. 37)

Best Friend
Athena Crackle Vase (pg.7)

Sister-in-law
Snowflake Snapshot Holder (pg. 51)

3 Gift Exchanges
Holiday Hanging Trio-set of 3 (pg. 46)

Holiday Party Hostess
Must Have Markers (pg. 40)

3 Neighbors
Carrigan Wine Stoppers – set of 3 (pg. 31)

Person you drew from a hat
Lemon Berry Bread (pg. 35)

Gift for herself
Mediterranean Sage Bowl (pg. 68)

Total out of pocket expense for all of this - $161.05

Why not plan a Willow House party today? There are lots of reasons to invite the ladies over to shop: Girls Night Out, Open House, Sip and See, Cooking School, Coffee “Shop”. Give me a call, and we can find a time to set up your party. I will help you with the invite and the set up. I look forward to hearing from you.

STORIES: kids choir

2011-08-04T11:02:00.000-05:00

I grew up in church. From the time I was five years old, my childhood days were filled with church activities: camp at Wolf Creek, "training union" (then Discipleship Training), Sunday School, VBS, and Mission Friends/Girls in Action. But my most favorite church activity HAD to be Children's Choir. The first musical I performed in was "God's Kids." I was five. And I was hooked. We had the coolest shirts with our names on the back in Rainbow reflector letters. Amazingly awesome for the mid-1970s! We traveled all over LA (Lower Arkansas) singing at other churches. It was so much fun.

"Miss" Lucy was our director. She was dedicated heart and soul to children's choir. She was a great encourager to all kids and always found some part for each child who wanted it. I had lots of speaking parts - imagine that! There are SO many times throughout my life that songs from one of the MANY musicals will pop into my head - seemingly out of nowhere. The songs are all Biblically based and they are stored in my heart. What a HUGE blessing.

One song was called the "clock song" - "Don't let your face be 7:25 looking like a frown . . . let it shine like 10 after 10 - like a great big happy clown!"

To this day I sing these songs from time to time. "I Am a Promise" comes to mind when I am singing to my boys. I remind them God has a plan for their lives and "you are a promise, you are a possibility, you are a promise, with a capital P, you are a great big bundle of POTENTIALITY!" I can still remember - pretty much word for word my speaking part in that song in particular: " . . . you may have holes in your tennis shoes or freckles on your nose. But it doesn't matter one bit. God's got something very special in mind for you. It might be climbing high mountains or ?, helping sick people get well or singing a song! Whatever it is . . . you can do it!" The years have robbed me of a few words - but you get the idea!

There was also:

Music Machine - "Music Machine, Music Machine, like no other gadget that you've ever seen; whatever you want to sing about, just put something in it and a song comes out"

and a couple "Psalty, The Singing Song Book" musicals with songs like "Don't build your house on the sandy land, don't build it to near the shore . . . well it might look kind of nice, but you'll have to build it twice, oh you'll have to build house once more."

Too much fun.

Wonderful memories of great friends (Phyllis, Eric, Karen, Kristie, Bret, Molly and Valerie, Shawn), sweet songs, a very special church (Dermott Baptist), incredible Godly people . . . and I of course have lots of stories about those people! Another time . . .

STORIES

2011-07-27T15:00:00.016-05:00

So my sister has challenged me to be a better blogger - for professional
as well as personal reasons.
One of her ideas has really struck a cord with me -
share some of my stories through a weekly blog post.

I am after all a Southern girl. And the way Southerners really get to know each other is through story-telling. You can't sit too long at a Southern gathering before the stories start to fly . . . "Remember that time . . . " leads into "Oh, yeah, well once I . . . " and on and on and on it goes. So, it only makes sense if I want people (and potential photography clients) to get to know me . . . I need to share my stories.

Sweet sister was also the inspiration for my memory jar. It is still a work in progress - but it is simply a place to keep things I can't seem to part with but do not necessarily need/want them sitting on shelves in my home. So, as I continue to build my jar . . . I'll share the stories of the pieces inside.

First . . . a pic of the jar itself, only partially filled

Now on to the first item:
My Pappaw's Belt and Buckle

Thomas Mayo Bartholomew, Sr . . . My "Pappaw" was such a fun man. I was his first granddaughter, Rod and Bret beat me out of first grandchild status, but I came along as the first girl, securing my place as a favored one (sorry cousins, its just true!) Pappaw drove an 18 wheeler. He would come pick me up and take me to his house in Monticello, AR, for fun weekends with him and my Grandma. We had a common love for horses, especially Poco D Diamond, popcorn, ice cream, and laughing. Pappaw was a horseman - riding in cutting shows and just for fun. And he ALWAYS had on a cowboy belt, usually with one of his many AQHA Secretary buckles. When I was in college and graduate school, I would call Pappaw anytime I needed a pick me up. He ALWAYS made me laugh like no one else. We were true friends. I still miss him tons and can get really weepy wishing that he could have seen my two red heads. But I have my memories and will certainly pass those along to my kids.

I have so many stories about how much my Pappaw loved life. He loved to laugh and prank friends. He loved his family - especially us grandkids. He loved my Grandma - and well, who didn't? But, well, that's another story . . .

A Wedding Sneak Peek

2011-07-20T19:43:00.000-05:00

It was a beautiful(ly HOT) Iowa Saturday . . .

A really sweet couple . . .

And lots of fun!

Rachel Randall and Ben Noland
CONGRATULATIONS!

They laughed a LOT all day!

Sweet Daddy and Daughter moment caught by our second shooter, Courtney

Groomsmen

Way too cute flower girlies

Mom and Daughter

a beautiful day

a beautiful couple

fun bridesmaids

AND . . . we did a SHOOTBOOTH at the reception!

So much fun!

We'd love to help you celebrate your next event:

birthdays, parties, receptions

To see the entire SHOOTBOOTH album, visit:

MandyBee Photography

Click on "Proofing and Ordering" and look for the ShootBooth album.

Thanks for letting MandyBee Photography be a part of your big day Rachel and Ben!

SIX MONTHS

2011-03-30T15:36:00.000-05:00

I saw on someone else's blog that it has been SIX MONTHS since I updated my blog.

Wow.

That hurts.

Its not that NOTHING has been going on. There's been plenty.
Its just that, well, I am a bad blogger.
I want to be better.
Blogging helps me clear my mind sometimes.
It helps me remember what has happened to us from day to day.

So, here goes.

Another attempt.

How about this time, I commit to blog once a week?

And while I'm at making commitments, I think I'll throw in a few more.

I commit to stick to my current diet (Weight Watchers)through the end of April as previous planned. Make the plan. Work the plan. That's the plan.

I commit to begin training for a 5K. I had to take a break from Surefire Fitness (as much as I loved it) because of some back issues. But now there is a void in my life that I need to replace. Exercise is a must I've learned for my sanity. Maybe I will do Midnight Madness this summer. I am also planning to move our Wii upstairs to the family room (or maybe my room) and start Wii Fit.

I commit to MAKE time (not find it or use kids as an excuse to not do it) to read my Bible each day. Really. If I cannot read for FIVE minutes, then I need to do a major re-prioritizing in my life. Who I am kidding? I NEED TO DO A MAJOR RE-PRIORITIZING in my life.

Please don't read this as me being all down on myself. I'm not. It is simply time to live out some things I've been half-way doing for quite some time.

And if I will put it out there for "everyone" to see, then all the better for me.

Now that that's all out there . . .

What have the Stenbergs been up to since October?
We settled into our new home. We moved in the last week of September and have enjoyed making it home. There is so much room here. Mark worked hard to make this house all that it could be for us. And it has been the perfect place to do what we love - host connection group and parties!
We've had a few game nights, many connection groups, two baby showers (and one more to come in April), a wedding "reception", and two birthday parties (mine and Mark's). We love it.

NOVEMBER
November is sort of a blur.
I started Surefire Fitness Bootcamp, but had to stop my month just short of 4 weeks because of a throat infection. It was no fun. Bootcamp was both the best and hardest thing I had ever done, especially since at that time I was still nursing Jack. Just craziness. But I did end up going back to bootcamp after Christmas and went through mid-March. I hope to go back in the fall.

Grandpa Stenberg's birthday

We were together with Mark's family towards the end of November for Mark's dad's birthday. It was fun having the grandkids all together

DECEMBER
We got tenants in our basement "guest room." Emma and Jordan Bradley moved in around the first week of December. They got married in Ruston, LA, the weekend after Thanksgiving and moved right into our place after their honeymoon. I was Emma's children's minister when she was a little girl in Ruston AND was overseas with Jordan's brother Ben. Crazy how paths cross. I take more than a little credit for their relationship!

MandyBee Photography had some busy days in December with families and seniors getting in last minute shoots. It was fun. I'm planning to really push to get some business this spring/summer, starting with hosting a booth at a bridal show in Ames this coming weekend!

Christmas!

Christmas morning at Mimi and Poppa's

me, angie b, and dad

We spent the holidays in the south with my family. The week before Christmas we drove down to Arkansas where we met up with my sis and bro-in-law at my mom and Jerry's house. We had a great time with them. On the day after Christmas the Likens and the Stenbergs caravaned to Dallas. We spent the next day with my dad's extended family in Granbury and then a few more days in Lewisville with my dad, Gigi (my sis) and Uncle (Philip). There were lots of miles on that van when we got done!

Angie B, Bret, Me, Casey and Tracey, and Patric and Kelly
Bartholomew cousins
Missing David, Rod, and Matt

JANUARY

Birthday dinner
Joy, me, Jenna, and Eve

I turned 39 January 13. I had dinner with friends on my birthday and then a big shin dig with tons of friends the next night. Good times!

Birthday celebration!
All my girlfriends except Eve - wonder where she was?

We tried (and failed) at potty training with Callen and started cereal to this 4 month old Jack.

The boys and I road tripped to see Gigi in Minneapolis and took along Joy and her kiddos.

Callen with his Gigi in Minneapolis

Naomi and Callen in MN

And then we battled RSV with baby Jack for about two weeks. It was quite rough around here.
Just because that wasn't fun enough, we also took away Callen's pacifier that he was still napping and sleeping with at night. I am pretty sure it was a much bigger deal for me than it was for him!

FEBRUARY
We hadn't been on the road and crazy/busy enough, so we piled everyone in the van and headed to Oklahoma City for Mark to attend a concrete counter top seminar. Did I mention yet how I love my concrete counter tops in my kitchen????? My mom and aunt met up with us in OKC and spent the day tooling around while Mark attended his seminar. We went to the Nat'l Cowboy Museum for the morning and had a great time. We also stopped in Stillwater at the "famous" Eskimo Joes on our way home.

Mommy and Callen at Eskimo Joe's

I also got my feet a little wet again with Upward Basketball. The directors asked me to help out with their end of the year awards ceremony. It was fun working with those guys again. And I was a little overwhelmed when I thought back to when we first began Upward at Cornerstone. God is good and faithful!

MARCH
Just some normal days around here . . . making baby food for growing Jack, celebrating life with friends, enjoying every other Friday morning off in a new swap with my pal Laura, and loving a few days of warmer weather. We are LOOKING FORWARD to spring!

Mark's Birthday
Mark turns 40 on April 2, but we celebrated a week early because his college ministry leader Larry was surprising him with a visit this past weekend. It was such a fun weekend to celebrate Mark. He felt quite loved!

Mark and Larry Thiel
(Larry was the Intervarsity campus leader at UNLV when
Mark was student there. Larry surprised Mark by coming
from California for the party. Way to go Larry!)

A few more pics, just for kicks:
When Jack started putting his foot in his mouth, I remembered a pic I had of Callen from about the same age. I finally found it and was able to put them together.

Callen Jack

Callen loving life and Jack just watching his every move. Pretty much daily events here at our house.

Yep. Crawling. Moving.
Thinking about climbing!

One of my favorite pics of 2011 so far!

John Deere boy

Stenberg Update

2010-08-13T02:58:00.004-05:00

Life has been pretty wild with the Stenbergs these past months. And I have simply not taken the time to contribute to my journal (blog). So, here goes . . .

Family of Four!
Jack Thomas joined our family on Wednesday, Aug 11. He is a precious treasure - another sweet red headed boy. We are very excited to watch him grow, to see how he and his big brother become friends, and to figure out life with two boys. He came into the world at a whopping 10 lbs 3 oz! Dr. Beer told me all along she had a feeling he'd be a big boy. And as usual, she was right on the money. Jack was born by repeat c-section and it was such a different experience than his big brother's arrival just two years earlier. Everyone who had a second c-section told me it would be different and they were not kidding. Now to settle in to a new routine (eventually - keep reading to see what else is going on with us) and to become the family of four that God has designed us to be.

Building a House
Our new home is coming close to completion. We've been living with Mark's parents since Mid-March. They have been such a blessing to us. Callen has loved being with Grandma and Grandpa. I'm thankful for the time he's had with them.
Mark has been working SO HARD on our new home. It is just beautiful. I love everything about it and simply cannot wait to get in. Well, maybe I can wait a little while to recover from surgery before unpacking boxes! I have a feeling I will be taking many of you up on your offers to help us get settled. It will be hard, but I can imagine even now me just pointing . . . "That goes there. Put that here." HA HA HA

MandyBee Photography
I had a very busy spring/summer with photography and am looking forward to continuing to expand my business this fall. I'm excited to do senior portraits and family sessions. So let me know if you'd like to schedule a session! On the horizon - new equipment and new ideas!

Extended Family Visits
With the arrival of Jack, I am in high anticipation of my family visiting over the next few weeks. Callen will have the privilege of experiencing "Camp Gigi" as Angie B arrives tomorrow to help us out our first few days at home. What a wonderful blessing she will be. My mom and Aunt Debbie will come next week and stay for the weekend and then my dad will be here a week after that. Good times on the way.

On the Horizon
I'm looking forward to starting Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) this fall. I've only heard incredible things about this program and simply cannot wait to be a part of a weekly gathering of women digging into God's Word together. There is now a program for kids 2 and under, so the boys will be in good hands each Wednesday morning!
My life has had a gaping hole in this area these last few months. I know that my marriage, my family, and my relationships with friends have suffered because of my lack of commitment to spending the time I need with God. Jesus is so faithful, even when I am not. And for that I am more than thankful. I am looking forward to what God will do this year and I'm asking God to give me a new passion for Him.

So, that's the Stenbergs in a nutshell. I'm sure I forgot somethings . . . but come on, I did just have major surgery two days ago and am currently experiencing the joys of pain medication.

Here's hoping for a few more frequent posts . . . for the two or three of you who read this crazy blog!

Crazy Days

2010-03-12T13:19:00.004-06:00

What are the Stenbergs up to these days?

We are expecting our second baby!

Baby Stenberg will arrive somewhere around August 11 or 12. The date is TBD and will be a scheduled c-section. We'll find out April 2 (Mark's birthday) if it is a boy or girl. Yes, we are finding out this time. We didn't with Callen and loved every minute of that. But I feel the need (with all the other uncertainties in my life these days) to know the gender of this baby.

We have moved in with Mark's parents.

We packed up all our stuff from our sweet little bungalow on Grand Ave and have stored most of it while we build. We are hoping to dig and get started on the house by the end of this month or early next. Slowly I am settling in to this new normal. There are certainly adjustments. Marilyn and Red (Mark's mom and dad) are amazing. They love having Callen around. He is having a little trouble adjusting - it is showing mostly in his behavior and the crawling out of the crib. So more transitions ahead - to a "big boy" bed and more.

As quickly as I was back on staff at Cornerstone, I'm going to be done!

With much wisdom, Troy (lead pastor) has decided that it is indeed time to have someone on staff FULL TIME to think about the Family Ministry. What a great move for our church! And that means that I can step down (again) and be at home with Callen and concentrate on these crazy days ahead. Cornerstone is our church home and we'll always be a part of what goes on there. This season of life just simply requires more attention on home and family than dividing it with work too. And the ministry at Cornerstone deserves to be led by someone who can give it their all! So at the end of this month, its back to full time mommy-hood for me.

Texas Vacation

We had a marvelous time with Angie B and Philip, Mom and Aunt Carolyn, Uncle Larry, CJ, and Caitlan Dallas. I also got to catch up with some great "old" friends from college and seminary. It was great to relax, enjoy time with family, shop fun stores, and eat WONDERFUL food. Mark and I even had a date night away while Callen hung out with GiGi (Angie). We ate at III Forks Steakhouse. It was probably the best meal I've ever had in my entire life.

Quick Trip to Arkansas

Not too long after we got home from our Texas trip, and in the midst of packing to move, I go a call from my mom that my Grandma Fowler (mom's mom) had passed away. She had been ready to be done with this life for quite some time. So it was one of those bittersweet times. Mark and I made some quick arrangements for Callen to stay in Ames (he was still recovering from Texas and an ear infection) and we made a drive to Arkansas. I got to see TONS and TONS of family (some I didn't even know were related!) and was able to say goodbye to my last grandparent.

Callen

Mr. Callen is quite busy. He is usually the life of the party. He is full of smiles and energy. He did quickly discover that he could crawl right over the edge of Grandma's crib. So we are in transition mode to his big boy bed, as already mentioned above. I'll take any suggestions. I just cut his hair last night. I think it looks just dandy. He does like his new room at Grandma's house. We had it all set up for him with his familiar toys on the day of the move. So he's doing OK. I can tell that he is still adjusting. I know it is also an age thing - how he is consistently pushing the envelope with his behavior.

Anyway, as you can see, these are crazy days for the Stenbergs.

Drop in!

Wow. I'm one of THOSE bloggers.

2010-01-30T09:48:00.003-06:00

One who takes a month long (or maybe longer) hiatus and doesn't even really seem to care!

If you are one who checks this periodically and have maybe even stopped checking it . . . so sorry.

Facebook has sucked the life out of my blogging. I put pictures there and just go on with life.

I want to be better at blogging. You can say so much more here.

So, here goes . . .

A short update:

We've sold two houses in two months.

We will be moving in with Mark's parents while we build.

Callen is saying more and more words every day.

Callen had his first haircut.

My dad came for a Christmas visit.

We are headed to TX for a sweet vacation!

I started back to work part time at Cornerstone.

Life is good. Crazy at times, but good.

Here are a few pics . . .

Callen did SO great with is first haircut.

I absolutely love this pic!!!

But at the end, he was pleased as punch with his new 'do!

Photo Update

2009-12-03T20:55:00.003-06:00

We spent Thanksgiving with family in South Dakota. It was really nice and relaxing.

I took the opportunity to snap a few shots.

Thanks Tim and Dawn and Nash for a great holiday.

Callen and his cousins Nash and Fin

Our Family

November 2009

Photography Kit!

2009-11-20T11:20:00.001-06:00

Fellow photographers . . . Just wanted you to know about a new kit by Davina Fear. She puts out some of the most incredible tools to make your life easier and your photography business run smooth! Enjoy!

Check out the new "GET YOUR LIFE BACK" kit!

http://davina.squarespace.com/journal/2009/11/18/get-your-life-back-kit.html

Callen and his buddy Max

2009-11-09T16:35:00.003-06:00

We've been locked in our house now for weeks. Callen was sick with the H1N1 flu. Mark caught it. Our house was NOT a happy place for about two weeks.

The weather gave us a little break last week so we took advantage of that and one of the last days that the Center Grove Orchard was open for this fall season. We invited our friend Max (and his mom Jenna) to go with us. It was good to be outside!

Heintz Family Preview

2009-10-31T15:35:00.004-05:00

Here are the much anticipated (at least by Heidi and James!) Heintz family photo previews! Enjoy!

Sweet sisters!

Boys need their room to roam!

LOVE IT!

Slackin' at updatin'

2009-10-05T10:43:00.002-05:00

Yeah, it has been awhile since a Stenberg family update. So sorry.

Seems like we've been busy. But when I look at our lives, I have a hard time seeing

what we've been busy doing. Mark is leading our connection group. I'm leading a Bible study at church. Mark is still busy in the concrete world. I'm lending a hand with some family ministry stuff at Cornerstone AND pursuing photography AND training for a 5K.

God is HARD at work in us right now. He is chiseling away and making us

beautiful all over again. But don't you know that hard stone feels that chisel?

Callen is great. 15 months this past weekend. Growing. Climbing.

Talking more and more and more.

He's figured out the "b" sound now

and says many words:

"mama" sometimes he just says "mom"

and "dada" sometimes he just says "dad"

"uh oh"

"nana" banana

"NaaNaa" Naomi, his sweet girlfriend

"caka" cracker

"baby"

"all done" He signs this one and almost says the words

"pappaw" Mandy's dad

"poppa" Jerry T

and almost "meme" Mandy's mom

He is also working on "grandma" Mark's mom

All in all life is good for the Stenbergs. How are you?

2009-09-20T16:49:00.002-05:00

Well . . . we did the drawing for the FREE session with mandybee photography!

And we learned a lesson in the process.

ALWAYS check the batteries in the video camera before starting a cool idea.

Watch:

Really!? He pulled out one name. It was perfect. And just as I

was about to tell the "world" who the winner was . . . the red

light on the camera went out. No kidding.

I was left with a dilema:

Reshoot and simply say the same name no matter who he pulled OR

just put this silly video online and tell you that the winner is:

JEN LEE!

So I imagine in the coming weeks

you'll see some pics of Mr. Abram!

Congrats Jen!

Enter to Win a MandyBee Photography Session!

2009-08-24T10:34:00.003-05:00

In your last family photo, is your now middle school daughter still in diapers?

Need some fun engagement photos to use at your upcoming wedding?

Seniors - time to get those classic shots for mom and dad AND the yearbook?

If you fit in any of the categories above or would just like some great photos, then keep reading!

Enter this contest to win a free session from MandyBee Photography!

This is a $75 value.

Drawing to be held Friday, September 18.

Complete the following listed activities and receive the number of entries per activity:

1 entry) Visit www.mandybeephotograhy.com and email Mandy via the "contact us" button.

1 entry) In that email, comment on your favorite home page slideshow image from the website.

2 entries) Refer a friend to MandyBee Photography. Make sure they mention your name!

3 entries) If that friend books a session, you'll get your name in the hat THREE more times!

1 entry) Check out the photos on this blog from the Love Affair Workshop. Leave a comment on that blog entry.

1 entry) Post a witty or thought provoking comment on Mandy's Facebook wall. Make sure you mention this contest.

I'll keep track of all your entries. This could be really fun!

The winner will be posted here on the blog as soon as we draw on Friday, Sept 18.

Now, happy clicking!

Date Night: Iowa State Fair

2009-08-19T15:28:00.004-05:00

Mark and I spent our date night at the Iowa State Fair on Monday. Callen hung out with gal pal Naomi and her awesome family. Here are a few pics from the fun.

This mama llama had a seriously bad hair day.

Mark and the winning GIANT pumpkin.

Just for fun . . . i know, i should have folded my hands.

On the sky lift

Callen with his state fair prize - a Winnie the Pooh won at the Water Gun game.
I LOVE that game!

Love Affair Workshop photo shoot pics

2009-08-03T15:13:00.003-05:00

On Wednesday of the Love Affair workshop, we were sent out in groups of 4 with fabulous models (thanks to Brandi Howard and her design team!). Here are some of my favorites . . .

I learned so much! And met some incredibly talented women.

Atlanta

2009-07-28T20:47:00.004-05:00

I'm in Atlanta for Love Affair Workshop. Today was a big day. I learned that I'm not like anyone else. I am who I am. I am the photographer that I am supposed to be. I don't need to compare. I don't need to be like anyone else. I so need to learn lots more about my "craft." There are so many things I don't know. But I can learn. I can practice.

The photos are from the trip so far . . . mostly the fabulous W hotel.

Kelly Moore Clark is one of the teachers of the workshop. It has been fun to see

her in her element!

Brandi Howard is here too! She works with Kelly.

It has been good. More to come.

A visit to a BAPTIST church

2009-07-26T21:53:00.002-05:00

Hello friends. I am traveling this weekend and week. I'm in the Atlanta area visiting friends this weekend and then here Monday-Friday morning for a photography workshop. This morning I had the joy of visiting a VERY LARGE Baptist church here in the Atlanta area. And boy oh boy did it bring back some serious memories.

You see, Cornerstone Church of Ames is NOTHING like anything I grew up attending. My Baptist roots just don't translate to the corn fields of Iowa. So Cornerstone does what it takes (and what God asks of them!) to be a light in the Midwest.

That said, I love Cornerstone.

But this morning, I experienced LOTS of things that I have not experienced for quite some time. Things I saw and heard that were sweet memories:
1) "Please stand in honor of the reading of God's Word"
2) a choir
3) a sermon with a LOT of alliteration for the points (3 points and a poem!)
4) An offering plate being passed, complete with the "special song" for offertory
5) Offering envelopes in the seat back in front of me
6) Lots and lots of ladies in their "Sunday best"

Some things I had NEVER seen before:
1) Valet parking for PRESCHOOL families! OH MY WORD. LOVED IT!
2) An auditorium that seats about a gazillion people (maybe like 5000)

It was a great worship experience.

I'm headed to the photography workshop tomorrow. Here's hoping that I really am a good student and learn a lot. Big kudos to my mom and Jerry for hanging with Mr. Callen this week while Mark's at work and I'm gone. Callen's getting some good Meme time!

2009-07-16T13:55:00.000-05:00

Father and son
First Kayak Trip
Clear Lake, Iowa
July 4, 2009

First Birthday Bash

2009-07-08T14:22:00.000-05:00

Randomness

2009-06-17T10:16:00.003-05:00

Here are some pics of Callen. More to come soon with a BIG BIRTHDAY BASH just a few weeks away!

On the boat with Stenberg cousins, Memorial Day

Lake Family!

Elijah, Callen, Noah, Elliot, and Hattie

SWEET FACE!

Pics from May

2009-05-22T18:39:00.003-05:00

Callen and I at Reiman Gardens, Mother's Day

Callen at Tulip Time in Pella, IA

Callen with friends at Pella Tulip Time . . . Naomi and Max

Callen and his sweet girl . . . Naomi

Love Affair Workshop

2009-05-06T14:16:00.004-05:00

Many of my faithful readers already know that at the end of May I will be done with my job at Cornerstone Church. After six years of incredible ministry and personal challenge, God has given me a new job - Callen's mom! Mark and I have known all along that when we had two kids, I would stay home. Nope, not making any announcement here . . . it just seemed like it was the right time now rather than waiting.

If you are a long time reader, you also know that I've dabbled in photography for quite some time. I sort of fell into it by accident. Then it became something I enjoyed doing as a creative, on the side outlet. I don't know that I am really any good at it . . . that's where the LOVE AFFAIR WORKSHOP comes in.

In July I am traveling to Atlanta, GA, for a week of intense training AND intense fun! Four fabulous ladies (one of whom I have known since she was in elementary school!) host this event for women only, and from what I understand, it is much more about personal growth and understanding and balance than it is about photography. Don't get me wrong, I will come away knowing more about photography than even I possibly can dream about. But I am so looking forward to really getting it - a new passion for this "hobby," a clearer picture of what MandyBee Photography should look like, and some definition of even the real viability of photography as extra income for our family.

They are also hosting a scholarship contest, hence this post. They will enter names in a raffle for each task attendees accomplish. Here's hoping that the name that comes out of that hat is mine!

I'll leave you with a pic of two of the sweetest boy on earth . . .

On the Move

2009-04-28T13:23:00.003-05:00

Callen is on the move.

Sunshine and first touches of grass!

2009-04-24T14:46:00.004-05:00

Beautiful sunshine day in Iowa, tulips in our backyard

First time to actually feel the grass.

Random Pictures

2009-04-04T17:12:00.006-05:00

Mr. Callen is now 9 months old. He says "Mama" and "da da" and something like "ba . . ". He is crawling fast around the house and pulling up on anything taller than he is. He is a sweet boy.

Daddy and Callen like to wrestle!

A Birthday Tribute

2009-04-02T13:53:00.003-05:00

38 reasons I love my husband:

1. He loves God.

2. He loves me.

3. He likes to dance.

4. He is Callen's daddy.

5. He loves Callen.

6. He is a hard worker.

7. He makes me laugh.

8. He is quirky.

9. He is very smart.

10. He is a super connection group leader.

11. He spoils me.

12. He eats my cooking.

13. He loves his family.

14. He wants to make a difference in this community.

15. He likes to work in the yard.

16. He loves my family.

17. He does the laundry.

18. He wakes up early with Callen and lets me snooze a bit more.

19. He is learning to be patient with my emotions.

20. He is helping me learn to communicate through my emotions!

21. He is my best friend.

22. He wants the best for our family.

23. He works hard to provide for our family.

24. He tells me I am beautiful.

25. He sings silly songs to me.

26. He encourages me.

27. He is an incredible dad.

28. He likes to travel.

29. He is loyal to his friends.

30. He does ALL of the snow removal in winter.

31. He mows the yard in spring/summer.

32. He doesn't get mad when I forget to fill up my gas tank.

33. He is not an angry fellow.

34. He protects me.

35. He challenges me to be open minded.

36. He is a thinker.

37. He appreciates art.

38. Did I mention that he loves me????

Happy 38th Birthday Mark!

Look at me!

2009-03-10T10:28:00.003-05:00

So on Sunday, Callen pulled up in the crib at church. On Sunday afternoon, he worked on practicing his skill instead of taking a nap.

Here I go . . .

Just a little more . . .

Steady now . . .

Ta Da!!!!

What Callen has been up to . . .

2009-02-27T12:21:00.003-06:00

We have been a bit slow in posting some of Callen's happenings lately. Here are a few pictures for the fans . . .

Callen and his cousin Fin at the Stenberg family Christmas in January.

All the Stenberg "little" cousins

Wearing a hat that Grandma brought back from her cruise through the Panama Canal.

Sweet sleeping little boy

Supporing his favorite Turkish "futbol" team - FENERBACHE!

Response to Christi's tag and thoughts from this week

2009-02-18T09:29:00.004-06:00

Harper tagged me to post either the 1st picture in my 8th file or the 8th picture in my first photo file. Since the one in the 8th file is of me eating . . . I'm choosing the 8th photo in the 1st file . . .

That's Angie and Philip Likens at their rehearsal in Hot Springs AR. What a great weekend!

This Week:
This has been a hard week. Sunday night I discovered that I was spotting a little, always a scary moment for an expecting mom, especially one who has experienced miscarriage before. Monday morning we made an appointment to see a doctor at our clinic. For whatever reason, I told Callen as I was changing him right before I left for the clinic . . . "Whatever happens, we will choose to be thankful!"

It was clear very quickly on the ultrasound that our sweet baby had stopped growing somewhere around 5 weeks. Something in me seemed to already know that, because the shock of the news didn't seem to hit so hard. Don't get me wrong, I cried. I have been very sad. But something had prepared me for the moment. And let me go ahead and also give props to the sweet, gentle ultrasound tech Jan . . . so hard for her to give that kind of news, but her heart was tender and geniune. She mourned with us.

I think it has been both harder and easier this time around. Harder because we had already announced the news to friends and family near and far. To take back that kind of news is difficult. I know there will be awkward moments in the coming weeks when people who have not yet heard will inevitably ask the question. Lord give me grace and strength in those moments. It has been a bit easier because I have known what to expect physically. The emotions are the same, and not necessarily easier.

Callen has also been a GRAND JOY these past two days. God has truly blessed Mark and I with a wonderfully sweet and fun little boy. Callen just lights up when either one of us walks in a room, and who doesn't love that kind of response? He is growing so fast. Yesterday morning when Mark went in to get him, Callen was sitting up in his crib - that's a fun new accomplishment. Well, it was fun until he did it at 2a this morning and didn't know how to lay back down . . .

On Monday afternoon, God planted Job 1:21 in my heart. Later in the day, He reminded me of the refrain of a worship song based on that passage
"You give and take away, You give and take away
My heart will choose to say . . . Lord BLESSED be your Name!"

And just now I looked up the lyrics to the entire song. Oh, the Lord is good.

"Blessed be your name
In the land that is plentiful
Where the streams of abundance flow
Blessed be your name

Blessed be your name
When I'm found in the desert place
Though I walk through the wilderness
Blessed be your name

Every blessing you pour out,
I turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say...
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your glorious name

Blessed be your name
When the sun's shining down on me
When the world's all as it should be
Blessed be your name

Blessed be your name
On the road marked with suffering
Though there's pain in the offering
Blessed be your name

Every blessing you pour out,
I turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say...
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your glorious name

You give and take away
You give and take away
My heart will choose to say
Lord, Blessed be your name"

BY: Tree 63

AND . . . God has pre-ordained a visit this weekend from some of my most favorite people in all of the whole world . . . Billy and Elizabeth Johnson AND Angie S are on their way to Iowa this weekend. Oh, how I love blessings!

Thank you to so many of you for the sweet messages, emails, and voicemails. I love that God has given Mark and I such a wonderful community. We will indeed choose to say . . . Blessed Be YOUR Name oh Lord!

Callen was tagged . . .

2009-02-11T10:37:00.003-06:00

Callen was tagged by his friend Renea to do a 10 Random Things list. Renae's list is great! I don't know how good Callen will do . . . but here we go!

1. I am really really good at blowing raspberries. It is how I greet my dad most of the time when he comes in the door. I hope he knows it means "I AM SO HAPPY TO SEE YOU!"

2. Mom and dad tell me that I am going to be a big brother. I'm not really sure what that means. But they seem really excited about it, so maybe it won't be so bad. (REVISION: My mom and dad are sad . . . seems like my little brother or sister won't be joining us in September. We still believe that God is good and we trust Him.)

3. One of my most favorite things in the world right now is to take a bath. Splashing is so much fun. And I really like to play with my yellow ducky, my yellow police ducky, and my hippopatamus (I bet you are impressed that I could spell that!)

4. My mom is making some baby food for me and it is really really yummy. I especially like the apples.

5. I'm working really hard to learn to crawl. I've figured out how to use my arms to scoot myself backwards. But it seems that most of the time the toy I want is in front of me . . . man, I need to figure out how to move forward!

6. My mammaw gave me the coolest jumping horse for Christmas. It makes horsey sounds when I jump. I just love to jump.

7. Man, Renae . . . you are older than me. Was this list hard for you? I'm really having a hard time coming up with ten things. I mean really, my day still pretty much consists of eating and napping and some playing. Can I stop at 7? I'm gonna stop at 7. Maybe when I am as old as Renea I can do a longer list.

Callen's BLOG

2009-02-02T17:30:00.003-06:00

I set up a blog for Callen . . .

Check it out.

www.callenmark.blogspot.com

FINALLY! Christmas Pictures

2009-01-10T12:27:00.003-06:00

Thanks for your patience to the two of you who read this blog!
We had a great two weeks in the south for Christmas. We split time between my mom and Jerry's incredible new place in Damascus, AR and my dad's in Tallulah, LA. It was fun to be with family and enjoy lots of lazy time. Callen got loved on a TON by everyone. He's recovering well!

Latest developments in Callen's world:
Sitting up AND rolling over
Eating peas
Babbling a little more
16 pounds at his last doctor's appointment

FINALLY, I had some time to put the pictures on the PICASA album. There are TOO many to post here. I'll throw in one or two just for kicks. But otherwise, follow this link to the album:

Christmas 2008

Here's the slide show if you care to watch it:

Twas Two Weeks Before Christmas (Abridged)

2008-12-11T09:47:00.007-06:00

Twas two weeks before Christmas, when all through our house

Everything was stirring, but thankfully there wasn't a mouse

(I don't think mom could handle that . . . .)

These sockie things were hung by our fireplace with silver hooks,

Not sure what they are for, maybe just for looks.

I'm sleeping now all night in my crib,

with drips of rice cereal dancing on my bib!

The days are pretty cold, so I wear a cap,

and I'm even learning how to take a long nap.

Mom and Dad decorated the house really nice,

we've even enjoyed a nice fire once or twice.

There's talk of this dude who brings presents galore,

I don't know about all that, but I am sitting up more and more.

Mom is sending these cards full of happiness and cheer,

They bring wishes of joy, peace, and hope to friends far and near.

Mom and Dad show me this pretty scene,

I'm learning each day that this is what it all means:

A baby like me was born long ago,

and we want all our friends and family to know . . .

This season means more than hurry and fuss

Jesus came to bring life to ALL of us!

Merry Christmas from Callen!

Thanksgiving

2008-11-29T01:43:00.003-06:00

Here are some pics from Callen's first Thanksgiving. We spent the day with the Stenberg family - both immediate and extended. It was a nice day.

Thanks mammaw for the "little turkey" duds!

Check out my new trick . . . I can sit up pretty good when I'm supported. I like this view!

Sweet baby blues!

Sheer Delight!

Callen Travels to Louisiana

2008-11-13T21:16:00.003-06:00

We traveled to Louisiana at the end of October/beginning of November for Louisiana Tech Homecoming. It was so much fun to see old friends, introduce Callen to Ruston, and relax at my dad's house to end the weekend. We enjoyed every minute of the trip and even celebrated a BULLDOG victory!

Enjoy the show!

Center Grove Orchard

2008-10-12T08:40:00.006-05:00

I couldn't pass up the opportunity to take some great fall pictures of our little punkin' amidst the pumpkins at Center Grove Orchard. Callen's red hair just BEGS for fall photos. Enjoy!

For the die hards . . . . you can check out the album on picasa to see the pictures a bit larger. Its worth it!

Fall 2008

Callen Mark is THREE MONTHS OLD!

2008-10-03T14:36:00.002-05:00

So hard to believe that three months have already passed in this little boy's life. Callen is a joy and so much fun to have around. He's smiling more and more and even laughed for the first time with his daddy just yesterday. We are blessed.

Teri's Wedding

2008-09-24T11:19:00.003-05:00

This weekend we took a road trip to Sheldon, Iowa, for Teri Hulshof's wedding. I did the pictures for the family and ceremony. Jen, Eve, Teri and I are all friends from Ames. When I take pictures, I'm rarely in them . . . so here's one Jen had taken with her camera and a photo of the bride and groom for anyone who knows sweet Teri!

Busy busy busy

2008-09-17T10:40:00.004-05:00

It has been busy busy busy around our house. I'm back at work part time but for these first few weeks of D6 (our mid week ministry and my main ministry focus) it feels like I'm working overtime!

Here's a little photo video I put together from our Labor Day weekend with the Stenbergs at Clear Lake. Turn up your sound . . . this one has some music!

Callen is 8 weeks old!

2008-08-28T16:42:00.001-05:00

Eight weeks ago today the most precious little boy came into our lives. He is a treasure and such a gift from God. Enjoy the pics from his 8 week birthday.

Also, don't miss the first ever CALLEN video on the previous post!

Caught Smiling!

2008-08-26T09:35:00.002-05:00

I caught Callen smiling! Thanks Aunt Debbie for this cool FLIP camera! This is our first of MANY videos to upload for family too far away. We love you all.

Guess What I Did?

2008-08-24T12:27:00.004-05:00

Callen slept through the night last night! Yes, I did get up at 2:30a and was confused as to why he hadn't woken me up to eat. Yes, I went in to see if he was still breathing. But only once! I did wake up a few other times . . . just waiting to hear him. I can't believe my baby slept through the night. Now, I know that it doesn't mean every night he'll do that. But I know he can now. WOW. What a milestone!

He'll be 8 weeks old this Thursday. I'll post more pictures then!

First attempt at a SLIDE show . . .

2008-08-12T13:46:00.000-05:00

New Photos

2008-08-12T13:25:00.003-05:00

I've been a lazy blogger. My sister said, "You gonna put some more pictures up for us or what?" So I took some new ones this morning Angie! Here are a few of my favs . . . then a link to a picasa album with a TON more photos from this morning. I couldn't get the slideshow to work . . . maybe I'll try again soon. But for now . . . here you go.

http://picasaweb.google.com/thestenbergs/CallenAugust12

Who Loves Baby?

2008-07-31T08:42:00.003-05:00

Callen was given a book called "Who Loves Baby?" that you put pictures in to show the baby. So I thought I'd put a few here for you all to see as well! Here they are as a Picasa slideshow. You can click on the "word bubble" for captions!

One of my most favorite shots is the one of the FOUR red-heads: Callen, Daddy, Papaw Tom, and Grandpa Stenberg. NO QUESTION where the red hair came from! -

Happy Birthday GiGi!

2008-07-22T16:59:00.004-05:00

Today is Callen's Aunt Angie's (GiGi) birthday!

Happy Birthday Angie!

This is Callen's friend Naomi. She came for a visit the other day! Callen slept while she was here!

Almost two weeks

2008-07-16T15:46:00.005-05:00

We had a good time at Clear Lake over the weekend. Mark's mom (Grandma Stenberg) was a huge blessing to me as I was able to have some moments to relax while she had some goooood grandma time! We are glad to be home now.

Here are some more pictures for the Callen fans!

First Photo: Check me out Aunt Sonee . . . I'm a lake boy!

Go Bulldawgs!

Daddy and Callen

Family Photo and Mommy and Callen

One Week Old

2008-07-11T13:28:00.003-05:00

Great news! We had a visit with the Homeward Nurse today and after a week or so of struggling with the eating thing . . . Mr. Callen has now gained back FIVE ounces in two days! Praise the Lord!

We are headed to the lake for a few days so Mark can get some work done up there on a family project. So, no posts until Wednesday or so. We'll leave you with these pictures . . .

Callen at one week . . .

Callen with Grandma Stenberg

A picture for GiGi

2008-07-08T18:08:00.002-05:00

More coming soon Angie!

More of Callen!

2008-07-06T18:31:00.003-05:00

We made it home finally around 12:30p Sunday. It has been an adventure.

Here are more photos of the very handsome man.

Bath time before headed home from the hospital

Daddy getting Callen out of the car . . . HOME SWEET HOME.
We LOVE his red hair!

Callen Mark has arrived

2008-07-04T13:34:00.005-05:00

Callen Mark came into this world yesterday (July 3) at 8:57 am. He was 8 lbs. 12 oz, and 21 1/2 inches long. And very good looking much like his father.

What happened

Mandy was admitted to the hospital to "jump start" the process. We were one of 9 couples having a baby. It was a very busy night for the nurses. Mandy was given something for her cervix which was 2 cm. dialated. The side effect of this was severe cramps. At 2am the nurse came in the checked. She was already at 7 cm. And she announced Mandy was in active labor. This wasn't obvious because of the cramping.

I got up and thought..."this is it!"
2nd thought: "what do I do...I don't remember what I am supposed to do!"

3rd thought: "don't freak out, don't freak out".

Everything progressed rather rapidly. We had not expected the medication to knock her into labor. The doctor broke the water at 4, and then did another procedure to "finish out the cervix" at 5am. This is when the pushing began. The doctor said "now the work starts".

"What?" (my thoughts again) "work....what are you talking about? This is what we have been doing. You are supposed to be bringing us the baby now."

Mandy did so good! She really pushed long and hard. It was very very exhausting for her. She did this without any meds. We were trying to go as natural as possible. Mandy even at one point in between contractions was able to give me a nice smile. But later, 7ish, she was so tired, she would fall asleep during the 20-30 seconds of rest. At 8am Dr. Beer (see pic) came in and checked.

"If he wasn't coming out, we were going in to get him"

Although Callen had made progress, it appeared he had stopped moving out. Perhaps his size, or the pelvic shape, or something, but we were at a wall. It looked like it would be a much longer time before he would be delivered. Given Mandy's exhaustion after over 3 hours of active pushing, we opted to have a c-section. This went well. I watched the whole procedure. (which is not for the faint!) It took only about 5-10min. for Callen to be removed from Mandy.

I went with our little man to the nursery and realized something....he was bright blue!

"don't freak out, don't freak out"

All is well that ends well

The doctor and nurse took care of the situation and soon he was responding and a more natural color came over his face and chest. I was able to spend some alone time with him. We were not quite sure what the name was yet, so I took the time to try our favorites out on him. I don't think he understood this because he started to cry. But it was a beautiful cry.

So they got Mandy stiched up and in and then out of recovery. We have got him to Mandy for a late night snack and even breakfast and lunch this morning. We have had some visitors. Mandy's folks, my folks, and others.

Thank you to everyone who prayed. Thank you for thinking of us. We will be in the hospital until Sunday so Mandy can heal up some more. We look forward to sharing Callen with you.

p.s. If he had been born the on the fourth I think a patriotic came would have been in order....I think something like.... George Jefferson.

Change of Terminology Requested

2008-07-01T16:16:00.003-05:00

So, due date VS. estimated date of delivery . . . .

Due Date: An item should be returned or turned in at that time. Library books, reports for school . . . . and the like. Also there seems to a "penalty" inherant in a late performance when the word "due date" is used. With a baby . . . . there is no penalty. It just doesn't show up on its due date. As in the case of BABY STENBERG. No action.

Estimated Date of Delivery: I read this suggested term in one of my many baby books. I like it better. It suggests that maybe something will arrive on the date we tell you, maybe it won't. Again, as in the case of Baby Stenberg.

At our appointment today, Dr. Beer made a suggestion that we've decided to take.
We'll check in to the hospital on Wednesday afternoon to start the process of inducing labor. I won't actually be induced until Thursday, so don't expect any updates till either late Thursday or maybe even Friday. Mark JUST MIGHT get his fourth of July baby after all!

We appreciate your prayers as we go through this process. We can't wait to meet the baby and introduce him or her to all of you!

Update

2008-06-23T19:25:00.002-05:00

Doctor appointment today . . .
Blood pressure is still down. 1 cm dilated (TMI???)
Back home for more rest . . . BUT I can add the recliner to my sitting locations now! Yippee for change of scenery!

We have another appointment on Friday.

Must be that I've just created the perfect place for this baby and he/she is in NO hurry to vacate! That's OK. We'll wait.

Bed Rest

2008-06-19T16:37:00.003-05:00

Well, after a night at "Camp Mary Greeley" as my doctor called it . . . . we are back home. My doc was NOT happy with my high blood pressure on tuesday and put me in overnight to observe me and the baby. Blood pressure went down with rest and she sent me home - on bed rest until Baby Stenberg decides to make his or her appearance.

So, it is the couch or bed (with a few minutes in between for showers and an email check NOW and then . . . . ) for Mandy B Stenberg.

Pray that Baby will decide to come on his or her own and we can proceed with our "plans" for a natural childbirth.
Pray that I will follow doc's orders.

Our connection group and other church family has already been a huge blessing to us. They have meals planned and folks are calling all the time to check on us. We are blessed and loved.

Best way to contact us: email or cell phone.
THANKS for praying!

2 weeks to go

2008-06-16T11:27:00.002-05:00

Hey friends and family. You've been asking "How are you feeling?" . . . . so I thought I'd better update!

This past Thursday at my now weekly doc appointment I had pretty high blood pressure. So the doctor told me to take it easy for the next few days, stay off my feet as much as possible. Easy to do unless you have a wedding scheduled to photograph and work on Sunday and Day Camp with 72 campers starting on Monday . . .

But . . .
I found some great friends/fellow photographers to sub for me at the wedding
Left work early on Sunday
and I have been sitting most of Day Camp today just giving everyone else direction!

So we have an ultrasound scheduled tomorrow and we'll know more about if the high blood pressure was a one day fluke or an issue we need to address sooner than later. You can just pray that all will be well and that I will continue to follow doc's orders!

I'll let you know when we know anything else!

Almost 35 weeks

2008-05-31T12:03:00.002-05:00

A picture from wedding rehearsal. Almost 35 weeks along.

Angie and Philip Likens Wedding

2008-05-31T11:07:00.003-05:00

Well, the wedding weekend was amazing. God was honored above all with Angie and Philip's ceremony. It was wonderful to see family and friends. Here's a slide show with some pictures!

And for those who want a closer look, here's the link to the Picasa album:

http://picasaweb.google.com/thestenbergs/AngieAndPhilipLikens

Newest photo

2008-05-20T18:05:00.004-05:00

Here you go ladies (and any gents that might care!) Here's the latest photo. I thought I'd better get dad-to-be in a shot or two. This is just as much about him as it is about me!

I'll post more after the big family shin dig this weekend. That's right . . . Angie B becomes Angie L this Memorial Day weekend. Pray for safe travels for us!

GOD IS GOOD!

2008-04-25T17:14:00.002-05:00

Thanks so much for praying! God is good! We had our doctors appointment and ultrasound today and we got great news!

NO SIGN OF FIFTH'S DISEASE!

And we are done with ultrasounds for good! They won't do any more testing at this point and the doctor says at this point there is no risk that I will develop the virus!

YIPPEE!

Thank you so much for praying!

30 weeks

2008-04-22T10:54:00.003-05:00

We are on the countdown for sure now! 10 weeks to go until the due date . . . of course, there's only ONE who knows when baby Stenberg will make his or her grand entrance into this world. And we continue to trust Him for the baby's growth and well being.

We have one more ultrasound scheduled for this Friday. I'm hoping that after this one, they will tell us that all is well and that the chances of me developing Fifth's are gone! So pray with us to that end.

I've been feeling pretty good - other than normal aches and pains and tiredness . . . .

It is very hard to imagine how our lives will change in the coming weeks. Both Mark and I are ready to embrace parenthood . . . funny though how we don't really even know what that feels like. We just know that we are ready to meet this little person who has been kicking and flipping and rolling around inside me!

This is our week of concerts! I gave Mark tickets to Bon Jovi for Christmas. So we kicked off the week Sunday night with that show. It was pretty good! Mark, ever becoming more and more dad like, was worried that the noise would be bad for the baby! So sweet! On Thursday we'll go to Casting Crowns and then on Friday . . . MICHAEL BUBLE! (Can you tell which one I'm most excited about?????)

Angie B and Phillip's wedding is set for May 25. It will be tons of fun!

So, here's what many of you have been waiting for . . . the latest picture. I don't feel very photogenic these days . . . but here you go.

Update

2008-04-09T10:06:00.002-05:00

We had a doctors appointment yesterday. So far, so good. Keep praying! There seems to be no indication that I have contracted fifth's disease or that the baby is affected at all. The doctor says she'll go ahead and do two more US over the next four weeks just to be sure. But if everything continues to look good through those, we are in the clear. KEEP PRAYING!

Prayer

2008-04-01T10:10:00.003-05:00

So I've been exposed to Fifth's Disease (parvo-virus). Apparently, there has been an outbreak here in Iowa this winter. Fifth's Disease is a childhood disease - the fifth in a family of viruses that cause children to break out in fever and a rash. It is a mild disease really, nothing to be concerned about for kids. But for those are expecting . . . it can present a few problems. Over half of the adults in the US have been exposed before and don't even know it. Once we found out I had been exposed, I wasn't really concerned. I figured in all my time with and around kids, surely I had been exposed and was already immune. But no. Can't be that simple.

What does it mean for baby Stenberg?
Well, fifth's disease can cause anemia (lower red blood cell production) in unborn children if the mom contracts the virus. So far, I have not contracted the virus. My immune system is fighting it off. So . . . that's prayer request number one - that God will direct my body to continue to fight the virus and that I will NOT contract it.

How will we know?
I am to the point in my pregnancy (27weeks) where normally I would begin to see the doctor every two weeks anyway. So along with those regular appointments, we'll be getting an ultrasound every two weeks where they will look at the blood flow in the umbilical cord (modern medicine is amazing) and just follow along to see if there is any indication that that baby is being affected. IF over the course of the next six weeks or so everything continues to look normal, then we'll assume I've fought off the virus and there will be no further testing or concern. But IF something comes up, I'll be sent to Des Moines to baby specialist for further testing.

Of course, I'm hoping for the best and believing that God can protect both me and the baby.

So, put us on your prayer list and I'll keep you posted!

Angie B has big news!

2008-03-28T07:34:00.000-05:00

Check out her blog!
http://angjoyb.blogspot.com/

24 Weeks

2008-03-16T17:46:00.004-05:00

Here you go photo fanatics!

Let it be known . . . . I am only doing this for those friends and loved ones far away.

Yep, we are 24 weeks along (25 on Tuesday) and plans are well underway for the baby's room. We've finished the new guest room and bathroom downstairs and have moved all the furniture down there too. The baby's room is empty now, waiting on our furniture - sweet hand-me-downs from Mark's brother and sister in law.

My mom and Jerry are coming next week. We have another ultrasound and I invited mom to join me for this one. She's pretty excited.

No, we still don't know what we are having, and we are still not planning to find out!

Yes, we have names picked out. No, we aren't sharing them.

I need to go register for baby stuff. That's next on my list. Maybe I'll do that while mom is here too!

That's about it for now!

My sister tagged me

2008-03-11T10:50:00.003-05:00

Thanks Angie.

Ten years ago...I was working at FBC Ruston, probably getting ready for the summer - VBS, camp, and day camp.

My to do list today...
1. Blog
2. Clean house.
3. Get a mommy to be massage (Thanks Mark for the Valentine's gift!)

What would I do if I suddenly became a billionaire...
Give lots away to Cornerstone and other churches.
Get a bigger house for all the kids we'll have.
Adopt.
Not sure what else.

Three bad habits...
1. being overly emotional
2. Dr. Pepper
3. eating food that is not good for me.

Five jobs I've had...
1.Babysitter
2.Photographer
3.Children's Minister
4.Summer intern at Tallulah Welfare Office
5.Daycare worker

Five things people don't know about me...
1. I was a duck dog trainer
2. I rode horses in a rodeo
3. I don't like cherry flavored anything
4. I snore a little bit
5. I was valedictorian of my high school class

I'm tagging . . . Elizabeth and Kristie J

More snow

2008-03-04T10:54:00.003-06:00

Really.

It was almost 60 degrees on Sunday. Almost all the snow melted. For the first time in months - literally since December - I saw my front yard.

Then, the awful twist. Sunday night the temps dropped and I woke to MORE SNOW on the ground Monday morning. And the weather guy . . . well, he's telling me we'll have more tonight and Wednesday.

Really.

Winter has to be almost over.
It just has to be.

Baby is doing great. Week 24 photo comes next week! Just you wait!

19 weeks

2008-02-12T13:58:00.000-06:00

I consulted with a few hollywood starlets . . . they said to keep the public interested in your "fame" (a.k.a. - keep reading your blog) you have to give them what they want.

So, I'm taking their advice and finally posting a much asked for and long awaited "pregnancy pic."
I am now to the point where people at church who may not have already heard the news about baby Stenberg will give me a second glance or two with that look . . . "Are you expecting????"

And the switch of colors on the site to pink AND blue?Well, much to the distress of some (angie b) we will NOT be finding out whether we are having a boy or a girl. It is a little fun, and a LOT out of character for both Mark and I who are planners by nature.

All is going well so far. I am feeling tired often - there is a reason most ladies choose to do this having a baby gig in their twenties! But God isn't surprised that I'll be 36 when this baby comes. So I shouldn't really complain. It was His plan after all!

Names? We are working on a list. It is a work in progress really. While there are some names that come up more often than others as favorites, we aren't settled at all. That will come too in time.

Mark has been working hard on renovating the basement with the new guest room and bathroom. As soon as it is finished we'll get to work on the baby's room. That will be fun and make it all the more real.

Thanks for reading!

Sacramento Area and Las Vegas

2008-02-12T13:20:00.000-06:00

This will be a long post. So keep reading! I'll include pics and posts from our whole trip!

Mark was headed out to the World of Concrete Convention in Las Vegas and asked me to tag along. He then discovered that there would be a 50th birthday celebration for Larry Thiel . . . the director of InterVarsity (a ministry for college students) where Mark was involved when he was in college at UNLV. So we decided to get the most bang for our buck and head out to Sacramento/Stockton, CA the weekend before Vegas to attend the party. It was fun to meet Mark's college friends and especially Larry (and his family) who has such a big place in Mark's growth as a believer. Larry really took time to disciple Mark and help him establish a great foundation for his faith. Here are some pics from the birthday party weekend . . . .

This is the UNLV crowd. Larry and Nina Thiel are on the far right.

Mark, Heather, and Larry
Heather was one of Mark's good friends in InterVarsity. We spent two nights in the home of her and her husband Mike in Sacramento.

Mark and I were both excited to eat at In-N-Out Burger in California! If you've never had one, too bad for you. And thanks Angie S for the "secret menu" tips!

On Sunday night we made a quick trip with Mike and Heather down to San Francisco so I could see the Golden Gate Bridge and to meet up with Eric, a great friend who actually traveled all the way to Iowa for our wedding!

Mark and I with the bridge in the shadows behind us . . .

The Stenbergs at Ghiradelli Square

Dinner at "The Stinkin' Rose" where they flavor their garlic with food!

LAS VEGAS

We flew from Sacramento to Las Vegas on Monday. Mark was really excited to show me the city where he lived and went to school for four years. It was my first Vegas adventure. Some highlights: A nighttime helicopter ride around the strip, dinner with another college friend (Tina and Jay and Avi), incredible dinner at the "top of the world" restaurant at the Stratosphere (800 feet above the city in a revolving restaurant), walking the strip and downtown and seeing all the wild and craziness that is indeed Las Vegas, and seeing "O" (Cirque du Soleil) show at Bellagio.

Getting ready to get on the helicopter

Us on the helicopter with our cool headsets

Vegas at night from the Stratosphere. We had a GREAT meal here! And what a view!

Us at the Stratosphere.

Fountains at Bellagio

We had a great trip!

Coming soon!

2008-02-06T12:32:00.001-06:00

Posts from our trip to Sacramento/Las Vegas

AND

a long awaited "belly pic!"
Yes, I'm giving in.

Check back soon!

Final Christmas 2007 post

2008-01-08T10:22:00.001-06:00

After a wonderfully lazy Christmas morning at home in Waverly, Angie B, Mark and I made our way to the Madden camp for Christmas night dinner with Dad - SHRIMP GUMBO! Here's Dad cooking away . . .

Dad - after his haircut!

Alidya and Bret (my cousin) and their boys met us in Shreveport for a Mudbugs Hockey game. It was so fun to hang out with them. Mayson McKeiver - JUST LIKE HIS DAD when we were growing up! Carson McKeiver - too sweet! Not at all like his dad! HA HA HA

Mark and I at the hockey game.

Carson learned to do the CHICKEN DANCE with his cousin Mandy! He's a dancer!

This lady (black jersey, #17) led the cheers in our secsion. Her hat has a Mudbug (crawfish for those Midwesterners reading this blog) on top and the hat reads - "PUCK HEAD." Can you say "DIE HARD HOCKEY FAN?"

Mark and I with the Mudbug mascot!

Friends Reunion in ruston

2008-01-08T10:01:00.000-06:00

Some dear friends moved back to the states from overseas and of course that was just a great excuse for a holiday gathering. Mark, Angie B and I headed to Ruston to meet up with the Johnsons and other sweet sweet friends just before Christmas. Here are some photos of our afternoon together.

Miss Bailey Johnson and her new best friend Chris Ellender.

One happy family! Jamie and Tammy are getting married in the Spring. Cameron approves!

Mark meets newest Johnson family member, Jesse Benjamin.

Billy James and his "boys" - all grown up now!

Angie B, Whitney and Lauren Massingale

Tiffany Webb Kinnison and Mandy B Stenberg

The Johnsons!

More Christmas

2008-01-08T09:51:00.001-06:00

I guess when you do something twice, it becomes a tradition. So this year, we made our gingerbread houses/men again at mom's house. We had special guests for the event too! My uncle Larry, aunt CJ, and cousin Caitlan-Dallas joined us for the fun. I made a Tech house - all decorated with red and blue. Angie and Caitlan made what they kept calling "juicy couture" house . . . we all just called it a mess. Cynthia's resembled mine - at least in the "neatness" of it all. And mom and Jerry collaborated on another outhouse. Too fun.

Christmas 07 Highlights

2008-01-04T08:52:00.000-06:00

OK everyone. I'm going to work to get up posts and pics from our Christmas adventure to the south. Each one will be a different post . . . so keep reading to see just what you are looking for.

First we made a stop in Kansas City to see Amy and Greg Gay and their new baby boy Donovan. Man, he's cute.

After our overnight there, we continued on to Arkansas with a stop in Russellville to see David and Margie McLemore. I didn't take my camera in and was kicking myself for not doing it. But it was great to see them. Bro. David continues to recover after his accident nearly 3 years ago. Our next stop was Fowler's Truelove . . . my mom and Jerry's home away from home in Damascus, AR. It is a beautiful place. They have enjoyed the peace and quiet there and have really done some work to make great walking trails and bridges over the creek. These photos are from our day there. WARNING: Some of you have asked for pregnancy photos . . . you'll see me in the following pics and yes, I'm pregnant. Does that count?

More to come soon including photos of the "reunion" in Ruston, gumbo with my dad, and the mudbugs hockey game with Bret, Alidya, and the boys!

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-24T17:06:00.000-06:00

Hello friends and family!
Merry Christmas!
Mark and I are enjoying our holiday in the good ole' south! I'm drinking so much sweet tea . . . and boy is it good!
Baby Stenberg is doing just fine too - we saw the doctor on Wednesday before we left and got a great report.
We'll post photos and more updates when we return home to Iowa.
Until then . . . have a WONDERFULLY special Christmas.

Correction

2007-12-12T08:20:00.000-06:00

Too many comments about my forgetfulness . . .

Yes, there were 10 shows of "Christmas Came One Night" - not eight as misspoken in the previous post.

Busy week

2007-12-07T08:23:00.000-06:00

It is a busy week. Cornerstone Church is putting on EIGHT shows for the Christmas production this week. It is an amazing production - don't miss it if you are in or around the area.

But it makes for a very busy week. And no major blog news.

Check back soon.

Weird things . . .

2007-11-14T08:50:00.000-06:00

So there are some weird things going on these days. I'll explain:

1) I think I'm about to save about $30 per month in my budgeted blow fund. I just can't seem to get excited about coffee. Usually, I stop by a local shop at least once a week for a Praline Delight Latte and drive through starbucks at least once a week for some sweet delight there . . . but the last week or so, those just don't seem appealing.

2) Strange food aversions - (see coffee listed above) as well as the smell of cheerios (who knew they smelled so strong?)

3) An odd metallic taste in my mouth - all the time. Makes stuff taste weird - except sweet stuff. I don't have any problem with sweet stuff.

4) I'm SUPER tired.

If you haven't guessed by now . . . . . Mark and I are going to be parents! I hear that all these things going on are quite normal for pregnancy. Normal is good. I'm thankful for normal!
Baby Stenberg will make his or her appearance sometime around July 1.

Some of the suggested names so far: Deranne, Nathan (Lubinus), Mikaela - all kinds of friends suggesting that the baby should carry their names! Too funny. We are not even close to thinking seriously about names! But we enjoy the suggestions.

You can keep us in your prayers as we are still early on in the pregnancy. We did have an early ultrasound about a week ago and heard a nice strong heartbeat and heard that everything looks "fantastic." So we are happy with that.

God is good and faithful!
Read Psalm 145!
He is faithful! He opens His hand and satisfies the desires of all things!

Owen's Dinner Party

2007-10-17T08:33:00.001-05:00

We had a fun gathering last night for some old Turkey friends to meet Owen Hammett! Tara and Owen are in Iowa this week visiting, so we made some plans to meet them for dinner. Mark, Marie, Ben and I hopped in the car and headed East to Coralville to meet Amy Jo, Holly, Tara, Gail (Tara's mom) and Owen for dinner. It was really fun to see old friend and to meet sweet Owen.

Here's the Turkey crew with Owen:

Here's Amy Jo and Owen:

Ryan, we didn't miss you one bit.

OK, so we did a little.

But we enjoyed catching up with each other and what a fun reason to do it -

that Owen is a cutie pie!

Update: soreness from TRX

2007-10-14T17:28:00.000-05:00

Well, finally on day three after TRX training, I could walk normally down steps. But oh no! Tuesday is coming again soon. And I'll be sore all over again!

TRX fitness training

2007-10-09T12:47:00.001-05:00

So yeah, I am taking a new class at Ames Parks and Rec. It uses the TRX fitness training system. And yeah, we do that move shown above. CRAZY. It is only one month. Will I be able to make it? We started today. I was wobbly on my legs for about an hour after class was finished! Oh my word.

Married One Year!

2007-09-25T18:13:00.000-05:00

On September 15, Mark and I celebrated ONE YEAR of wedded bliss! OK, so as you all know, the first year is rarely bliss. BUT, we can truly say that God has been faithful to us, giving us more grace and more patience and more love for one another than we ever knew imaginable. We're still learning how to serve one another. We're still learning how to communicate our frustrations and hurts. But most importantly, we are learning to love each other more and more and more. We have always believed that God did this - brought us together for His glory and purpose. As we sat together over a wonderful dinner and "debriefed" this past year, we came to the same conclusion - our story is God's story. He has given us to one another to love, to encourage, to grow, and above all to honor Him. It has been a wild ride! And we can't wait to see what this next year holds!

Mike and Angie Mowery

2007-09-04T11:32:00.001-05:00

It has been a really busy wedding season here in Iowa. Here are a few sneak peeks for Mike and Angie Mowery . . . married Saturday, August, 11.

Brad and Tara

2007-08-19T19:48:00.000-05:00

I'm a bit behind on pictures . . . . but here's a sneak peek for Brad and Tara Hofer.

The groom sees his bride for the first time . . .

They were so happy and excited! Truly . . . full of joy and the knowledge of God's sweet gift!

I love this picture!

She was so excited to say that Brad was going to be all hers!

Beautiful bride, beautiful decorations . . . . a wonderful day!

More to come Mr. and Mrs. Hofer. Soon!

Tagged

2007-08-09T15:30:00.000-05:00

My sister tagged me. Here we go!

The Rules:
1. Post the rules
2. List 8 random facts or habits about yourself
3. If you are tagged, then you must Post the rules and list 8 random facts or habits about yourself.
4. After you post, tag 8 people and let them know they must read your blog for the rules.

My Eight

1. I am afraid of birds.

2. I also lock doors when I close them. (My sis and I share this habit.)

3. I LOVE LOVE LOVE to eat a peppermint while drinking Sonic Dr. Peppers. Not just any Dr. Pepper will do. It must be from Sonic.

4. I have a red strawberry mark on the underside of my left forearm. My mom says it used to be behind my ear when I was a baby.

5. I just got back from Kids Camp today and these random facts might not be making much sense.

6. In just one month and 6 days it will be my ONE YEAR wedding anniversary!

7. I love to blog.

Tagging: Christi Harper, Marci Harper, Elizabeth Johnson, Jodi Pribyl, Angie Shepherd (no blog, but tagging her anyway!), Catie Blunt, Mark Seekins, and Christi Ramares

A preview for Courtney

2007-08-03T08:36:00.000-05:00

I had a fun family shoot on Wednesday evening with Courtney, Joel, and Katie. Courtney and Katie are surprising their mom with photos for her birthday! It was fun!

Family visit

2007-07-28T08:42:00.000-05:00

My sister and Dad were here in between the two weeks of VBS. It was a fun weekend. We went to Clear Lake and had a nice relaxing weekend there. We also celebrated (a few times) Angie B's 31st birthday. It was great to see them.

Here are a few pics from their time in Iowa.
We took the boat over to downtown Clear Lake for lunch on Saturday and passed the sail boat races.

Sweet husband

Angie B

Dad

Angie had a nickname growing up AND a horse named after that nickname . . . Angelina! So I made her stop and take a picture in front of this restaurant!

Sunset on Clear Lake

TWO Weeks of VBS

2007-07-18T08:52:00.000-05:00

First ends today (July 18).

Next one begins on Sunday.

Hence the lack of blogging and non-returned phone calls.

Be back soon.

Gladys and Harold

2007-07-05T22:15:00.000-05:00

On Wednesday, July 4th, I had the honor to be a part of a very fun and special wedding. My friend Marcia's mom married her sweetheart Harold. It was such a sweet wedding for two people who have found love again! How cute are they?

Crazy Squirrel

2007-06-22T15:04:00.000-05:00

The other day Mark said, "Mandy, come look at this crazy squirrel. It is up on the bird feeder (yes we have a bird feeder) hanging upside down." Of course I grabbed my camera. Look at this! Click on the photo to see the album.

Crazy Squirrel

Mike and Angie

2007-06-05T09:37:00.001-05:00

I had such a fun time on Saturday shooting these engagement shots for Mike and Angie! Enjoy.

2007-05-15T10:08:00.000-05:00

The Stenbergs
The Stenbergs and The newlyweds
The Bradley Brothers

Outdoor Wedding

2007-05-15T10:05:00.000-05:00

Yukiko and Mitchell Ho were married on Saturday, May 5 at Reiman Gardens. It was a beautiful wedding!

Marie Nesbitt - one of my most favorite ladies in all the world.

Reiman Gardens in Ames set up for the wedding.

the wedding

Things I Like . . . .

2007-05-05T16:27:00.000-05:00

I borrowed this post idea from Catie Blunt! Thanks Catie for the inspiration.

I LIKE . . .

Mark Stenberg

pajamas

eating a peppermint while drinking a SONIC Dr. Pepper

calling my sister to talk about nothing

a lazy Saturday

taking pictures

praline and cream lattes

mcdonald's ice cream

daffodils

puppies

planting flowers

working in the yard with Mark

things to be nice and tidy

the smell of rain (especially after a spring rain)

text messages from my dad

snail mail cards and letters

reconnecting with old friends

softball

shopping at old navy

hanging out with friends

playing games and cards

traveling

visits from my mom and Jerry (they were in Iowa this week!)

I'm sure there is more. But that's a good start.

maybe I inspired someone else to make a list. It is fun!

Latest Photo Shoot

2007-05-05T16:21:00.000-05:00

Here's some pics from the latest MandyBee Photography photo shoot.

Darcy and Drew (twins) and Ashton

My absolutely incredible sacrificing husband

2007-04-13T15:22:00.000-05:00

So, here's the story.

Mark has a cat. He's had Lewis for seven years. Lewis is a good cat really. He doesn't require a lot of attention from me at least. But he does like to be wherever Mark is in the house. Early on in marriage, I did set a boundry that Lewis could not sleep in or on our bed. So, he didn't and got over that relatively quickly.

I've had cats my whole life. There was Snowball, Frisky, the one that had kittens on my bed in the middle of the night (can't remember its name), Tasha (born on my bed in the middle of the night), Angie's cat Sissy, a few others that I can't remember thier names, and last but not least Callie. The cats have lived both inside and outside. They have slept in my bed.

BUT, when I left to live in Turkey, I had to give away my kitty. Callie went to live with the Smiths in Ruston. What a sweet family to take my kitty. So, I've been pet free (and thus pet hair over everything free) for six years now. I never recognized the fact that my pets might bother other people. I never thought any of them shed hair at all, to be truthful.

Then I married this incredible man who happened to have a cat.
And that cat sheds hair.
And that makes me nearly insane.

We've talked for months now about how much I can't stand the cat hair. I'm constantly rolling the carpet and my clothes and furniture with lint rollers. All the while, I'm wishing I could just relax and not let it bother me so much. But I just can't.

A few months back Mark said, "Do you think we should try to find another home for Lewis?"

WHAT????????

I could not even imagine being the reason that someone would give up a pet. I did not want that to happen. (Mostly, I didn't want it.)

But fast forward to discussions about kids in our home one day in the future and those kids learning to crawl and them getting cat hair all over their hands and then putting their hands in their mouth . . .

And it became MORE THAN I COULD HANDLE. AAAAAAAAAAAaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.

STILL, I could not imagine asking Mark to give up the cat. But he decided that it would be the right thing to do. He began asking around, "interviewing" really to see if anyone would be a good fit for Lewis.

Enter our friend Ben.

Ben is a single guy. He doesn't mind cats and even already "knows" Lewis.

So, last night after dinner, on our date night, Mark and I loaded up Lewis and all the paraphanalia that goes along with a pet, and took Lewis to his new home.

It was slightly traumatic.

For Lewis. For Mark. For me.

Afterwards I said to my incredible husband:
"I'm pretty sure that besides Jesus and my parents, I cannot think of anyone ever making a sacrifice for me on this level solely out of love. Thank you."

He is a good man.

I am a clean freak.

We only make it work because of love and all the sacrifice that Jesus shows us.

We are all sinners. We all have hang ups that must just make God so frustrated with us. But He still chose to sacrifice His Son, His true love, for us.

Thank you Mark for showing me Jesus.

A work in progress . . .

2007-03-21T08:04:00.000-05:00

So, I did it. I made a MandyBee Photography website! It is a work in progress. And I am by no means a professional . . . Apologies to all those "real" photographers out there (Kelly Moore and Linda Spratt and Josiah Kennedy to name a few), but this is just my little attempt to see what happens.

I'll be happy to take comments and input. But remember, this is a template that I do not have full control over. Some things can't change. Others can and should!

Give it a look!
www.mandybeephotography.com

Otherwise, all is well in Iowa. Spring is beginning here - finally. Looks like we'll get rain this week - bring on the flowers! My tulips and daffodils are peeking out of the ground and that sure is fun.

Would love to hear from you. Drop me a comment or two!

Miss Bailey

2007-02-25T08:39:00.000-06:00

So, while Mark and I were visiting in Turkey, I got to do a photo shoot! These are some of Miss Bailey's "one year" photos!

Photo Sharing - Upload Video - Video Sharing - Share Photos

Photo Sharing - Upload Video - Video Sharing - Share Photos

Photo Sharing - Upload Video - Video Sharing - Share Photos

Photo Sharing - Upload Video - Video Sharing - Share Photos

FUN FUN FUN

Now, this is winter.

2007-02-24T09:07:00.001-06:00

Ice on the roads, ice on the sidewalks. Things are cancelled because of the weather. THIS IS WINTER like it is in Louisiana! HA HA HA

Look at our web album (link below) for some cool pics of the weekend!

Winter Storm 2007