Spangler Family Communication Center

Bargain hunting is a way of life…for some.

2008-11-28T18:16:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning and joined the millions of other early-bird shoppers on the prowl for a discount. For us, it was a new Christmas tree. Our 6-year old artificial tree was $15 at a church garage sale. So a new tree had to be of a similar value to us. My first stop proved to be unfruitful, as they did not carry the full-range of door-buster deals that a full-sized store would have. I was met with satisfaction when one of our other frequent big-box retailers had a similar tree for a better price.

Later in the day I pondered the discount-drive that my wife’s family has. I decided that the Stevens tribe has a deep-seeded genetic drive to secure discounts and bargains of all kinds.

Here is my tribute to the Lynnwood Band of Stevens bargainers. The Chief of this tribe who I call “Grey Discount” has leaped into the 21st century and has set a family record in scouring the Internet for vehicles online. His squaw “Walks With Sharp Eye” is somewhat of a multi-mode connoisseur of deal-hunting. “Walks With Sharp Eye” frequents the antique mall, consignment store, and auction. Princess “Card In Hand” is a main-stream value vixen. “Card In Hand” has probably subscribed to every discount email alert system from every major retailer in the lower 48, and one form Alaska. With the updates “Card In Hand” gets on her Blackberry in real-time, she can adjust quickly to a changing economic climate. I was permitted to join this tribe by barter and fair trade by marrying “Bargains With Strength” , a skilled urban and sub-urban deal finder. Garage sales and the best thrift stores are treasure troves of dollar saving goodness.

Later, this nomadic group of penny-wise spenders sits around the proverbial village fire to tell tales of their trials, tribulations and success.

My hats off to this noble tribe, Happy hunting.

2008-09-24T07:46:00.000-07:00

They is all cutesies anyway.

Things are jumpin' in CT. I am the Main songleader for are growing little Campus Church. Every week I am singing and clapping and worshiping the Lord.

Caleb isn't in the picture at all

2008-09-18T17:45:00.001-07:00

We just updated our blog so you should go check out the pics Mike

That is Elliot!

2008-08-30T13:24:00.000-07:00

Hey bro, don't feel bad. When I saw them a month ago, I didn't recognize any of them but Dalton.

So, I am pretty sure that starting from the surfer dude Elliot, then Macy, then Caleb, Dalton, Ali and Micah.

I hope that helps

Question???

2008-08-26T12:28:00.000-07:00

So who is the little surfer dude in the orange shorts.
I know its been a while, but is that Dalton?

What is up with the no pictures sending.

Little help please.

We're up to that.

2008-08-18T11:05:00.000-07:00

So let's get started. Mark and I are on our US tour. We've gotten to IL, IN, and now NC. We will be here for another three weeks and then we're off to AL, and Florida for more training. There are several stops in TX on the way home! We are having a great time and the training is so valuable. We're glad that things are finally rolling. We are having a rough time with our first official newsletter so we could use some prayer there. We need to get it out sometime very soon.

What's going on with everyone else?

Here is a picture of the Indy and AZ Spangler kids

We need to shake the dust off this place.

2008-08-10T06:31:00.001-07:00

wrong blog

2008-01-28T23:49:00.000-08:00

Ok so no one has blogged on this site in so long that I didn't realize it would switch places with my other blog and be on top in the dashboard. Anyhow. If any of you are wondering why I have such a long blog on here it is because some of my friends thought I was dead cause I haven't blogged in a while so I stayed up and blogged and then realized it's on the wrong site! Oh well. I don't know how to fix it. It is all for another night. I hope you all at least enjoy all the pics.

Back by popular demand

2008-01-28T23:00:00.000-08:00

Well, I know I haven't blogged in a while. Lots has happened. I won't make anyone die over the details so I'll just say, I was sick, we found mold in the kitchen and now everything is livable and much better. So, here I am. Random stuff, Caleb is going through this weird "patch" allergy tesing. They basically put food all over his skin and leave in there for several days and then check it. Sounds very high tech. I hope they figure something out. So far he has been able to eat Zero out of about ten foods I've tried. Fun times. WEll, I'm sure I have pictures to post but the biggest news I have is......

MARK JUST LANDED IN THE US!!!!!!!!!! Whew whoo! He should be home to us within a week or so. I'm glad he is in the states and breathing FREE air! Hurray.

Here is my dear friend Kristin and our kiddos at the zoo. Five kids, two adults and one stroller. Not bad I'd say. All three and under. Good times really.
Caleb in a tub. He's so cute.
Micah and his Grandfather tearing up the tile. Micah was a trouper. He helped tear up tile all day. He has some serious endurance. He had way too much fun with his hammer!
Here was our surprise. This was just one of the cabnets and the part that is missing at the bottom fell apart at the slightest touch. It just got worse from here.

Here is our new tile and you can't tell but our new patches of dry wall from the mold.

Here is John. I'm not sure what he is doing or who took this picture but it shows off how they walked across the boxes the cabnets came in so that they wouldn't mess up their freshly laid grout. I think it worked cause my floor looks great!

Here is Sam installing the dishwasher while the grout is still wet. Again I'm not sure who doesn't like heads. Someone likes to take pictures of people's bottom halfs.

Here is Chris decorating Micah with chalk. When my children do somthing naughty and I say to them, "who taught you that?" Nine times out of ten they will look at me and smile and say, "chris did!" Hahahahaha

Webcaming in the new year

2008-01-27T09:49:00.000-08:00

Now that Brad and Sarah have a webcam, let get them rolling!

2007-12-15T22:51:00.000-08:00

Is this thing still on? I think it should be lifted from the dead. I'm so here again. I'm really enjoying this bogging thing in case you haven't noticed. What a good time. Here is a cutie offering.

how is grandma?

2007-02-14T05:48:00.000-08:00

Does anyone have an update on Grandma spangler????

An Update From the Californians

2007-02-01T16:13:00.000-08:00

Hi! Here's what's going on with us-

Addie's reflux has been real bad. We took her in to see the gastro again. He thinks her reflux got worse again because of having the stomach flu earlier this month. He said that can set back progress aways. So we have her back on her Zantac again. It has been a day and a half and we are still watching to see if it will help. It is hard to tell yet.

We counted how many times we have taken Addie to the doctor since birth and found out is has been 30. I was blown away by that! Then we counted how many times I (Niki) have gone to the doctor (or lab appointments) during that same time and it was 22. WE HAVE GONE TO THE DOCTOR 52 TIMES!!!! How crazy is that?!? Oh, and Greg had to go once. Hmph.

Still no word on Greg's job. Probably we'll hear more in March we think.

Saturday we join my parents and sister in Newport Beach for a week. We are hoping we can be away from home and not end up with Addie getting sick. Would anyone like to place bets? We will get to go to Disneyland while there and are looking forward to that.

OK- that's an update! We want to hear how you are! Jess? Sarah? How are you?

Mammaw to Indy

2007-02-01T04:58:00.000-08:00

So, sorry we stole Mammaw from you for a while, Jess. We're all very excited that Julie is coming to visit for about a week. She'll be here tonight. We really needed a third adult this weekend because we have so many things going on and not enough moms and dads in our family :) So, I thought that it would be crazy, but maybe Julie could come be our third adult, plus a little visit in 10 below weather would be a wonderful treat :) (sorry Julie). We are getting ready to put a for sale sign in our yard, so we'll be getting a few projects done in the next few days, as well.

Things here are moving fast. Dalton had his first basketball game last Saturday. It was hillarious watching a bunch of 4-5 years olds run around the court without a clue what to do. Some of them can't dribble so they rolled the ball down the court. Others were completely making shots in the wrong hoop. Some never touched the ball because the were so intent on "guarding" their counterpart. It was really funny. Dalton played decently..he made to buckets and had a smile from ear to ear the entier game. (Can you envision that?)

Macy is still learning dance very well and becoming quite a little girl. She tells me the funniest things and loves to spend time doing girl stuff.

Elliott is getting more and more devilish and schematic. I think when the sparkle is passed down from generation to generation, it becomes brighter and sneakier :) So far this week he has put a bible, a brush, a Ken doll, and a roll of toilet paper in the toilet to soak until I found it later. He tells me when he needs a spanking and then cries, but it sounds super fake. He is still really struggling with allergies. We accidentally gave hiim Dalton's sippy cup of milk the other night at bedtime. It was horrible. He threw up for about 5 minutes and then turned beet red and swelled up with hives all over his face. He was barely breathing and coughing (like the bark cough) ...I was so torn whether to use the epipen or not. I really didn't want to have to use it....but I didn't want to make the wrong decision. I finally decided not to, we poured benadryl down his throat and I listened to him struggling to breath for about an hour. The next day I told Jeremy what happened and he said "that is how kids die...the parents wait too long and it's too late...next time use the pen regardless of what he sounds like." Yikes! So, now I've changed all the rules in this house concerning cups and milk, etc....I'm terrified of having to use that thing...but know the next time it happens I have to.

Well, I'm putting off going to work ...i better get going.
miss you all!
sarah

Well

2007-01-25T20:48:00.000-08:00

He leaves tomorrow night sometime. I guess that's all I have.

Jess

Not the Silent Blog

2007-01-22T10:02:00.000-08:00

No! This blog will not go silent! :) I really like the chance for us to all talk like this. Let's not let it die.

OK Jess, the astro-turf. The jury is still out. It looks nice- nicer than I expected. And there's no mud, no watering, and that seems nice. I don't know how expensive it was. And we've been warned that it can be hot in the summer, although told we can hose it down to cool it off. I don't know yet what's going to happen when a dog does business on it. So far they're cleaning it off with a leaf blower, but I think that's only going to work for leaves and little stuff. After the "grass" part is down, they pour tiny little black rubber beads all over it. It makes the blades of grass stand up and it looks more real- like dirt. But the little beads go all over the sidewalk and we have to keep the little ones from putting them in their mouths. So we'll see- we're still in the astro-turf honeymoon period.

So glad you got to spend extra time with Mark! That is great! We had fun web-camming with Ally & Micah while they were at Julie's. So has Mark left now then?

Around here things are OK. Addie's reflux is acting up and that means some poor sleeping, which means a cranky kid with a low tolerance for ANYTHING. Geesh! Anyone know what that is like? We're stuck until we see the gastro in a week and a half, then we'll adjust her meds or do whatever he thinks will help. She had a good day on Sat., an OK day on Sun., and last night was up for several hours unconsolable- so I don't know what to expect. Keeps me on my toes.

Some updates on Greg's transfer/promotion. He won't be going after all to the Pasadena property, or a downtown property that was an option, but he will be transfering somewhere in the LA area eventually. We just don't know for sure when or where. Maybe in March. The company is trying to acquire some new properties and if they do it would change a lot of the staff placement all over the region. So we're preparing ourselves for the great unknown. :)

Better get a few more things done before Addie wakes up!

Niki

2007-01-21T20:52:00.000-08:00

Okay so tell me what you think of the astro turf. It looks real in the pics. I've heard of people putting this in their yard. How does it stay clean? What happens when it rains? I would love to put this stuff in my back yard. I have to convince the powers that be, mr Mark Spangler, that it it such a good idea. I have yet to meet anyone with personal experiance. I'd love to hear the pros and cons. i guess I'd love to hear them again in a month and even a year. I'm sure I'd be in big trouble if I put that in before Mark got home :) Tee hee hee.

I can already name the baby anything I want HAHAHAHA no can stop me. Yeah....
Pray for us :) Too much power too much power and no supervision.

Jessica

Good surprise

2007-01-21T20:43:00.000-08:00

Ok so Mark's flight was delayed and it left him with time and nothing to do with his time so he flew me out for a few days to see him. It was time we will never regret and time very well spent. It was so great just to be the two of us with nothing on our plates for the time being. We just had fun and soaked up each other. It's a wonder we don't try to do that a whole lot more often. I suppose it is more meaningful since we aren't together. It was so great and a special thanks goes out to Julie for watching the kids. They had so much fun at Mamaws.

That is all for now. I've been updating more on our website so check it out when you get a chance. I hope eveyone is doing well. Is this becoming the silent blog?

Jess

Good pics

2007-01-13T11:17:00.000-08:00

Thanks for the pics from the party guys they are great! We've been very sad around the Spangler house. Not a day passes where we don't have sad times. Ali talks about her dad all the time and about missing him. We try to talk to him often but I'm afraid that will all come to a halt soon. He will either be off the 14,15 or 16th we just don't know yet. Talk about last minute. He doesn't find out his schedule for the next day until late in the evening the night before sometimes.

We are still having fun but we are all pretty lonely. I'm working on a package to send to him in Afganastan. We've been told not to expect any communication with our spouses for about a month or so after they leave the states. Mark is hoping for better than that but we'll see. I never hope for the best with the Army.

Please pray for us as our tennant in the condo is breaking her lease for a job change to CA. I am at a complete loss because I don't know how I am going to handle this. Not only do I have to deal with the lease break but also deciding what to do with the condo. Mark and I only have a day or two more to talk about it. I'm on my own. It sucks and I'm good but not that good. It is hard to find tennants and do all the leg work, repairs and crap that goes along with renting with two little ones in tow. Not to mention soon to be three under three. I need God to sort this all out for me cause I can't think straight enough to deal with all this as Mark leaves.

I did meet some wives from Mark's Batallion this week. Hopefully I will be seeing them a little more often. It is nice to know that everyone else is not put together either and that everyone's kids are just nutts. Hopefully this nutts phase won't last long. Ali doesn't like to be left alone at all and neither does Micah. Needless to say I don't get time alone even to shower. Again I hope that this is just a phase but whatever I guess. At the very least I know all the wives are going through similar feats. I'll surely let everyone know stuff as I do. I have an address for him if you want to e-mail me so I know I have everyone's correct e-mails. Then I can send it that way instead of over the blog.

Please pray for us. We like to compare ourselves to Job. When we do, no matter how stinky it is, it just ain't THAT bad.

Jess

Still More New Years Pics

2007-01-10T19:19:00.000-08:00

I love this picture of you guys!
Galen and Ally on the dance floor
Sorry Sarah, this bottle wasn't really filled with alcohol. :)
Mark & Jess with Chris & Roberta

More New Years Pics

2007-01-10T19:15:00.000-08:00

Addie & Mark. Don't you love her hair? Greg was in charge!
Mark receives a bayonet
Mark, Jess & Ally listen to the lovely comments from friends and family. Brad & Sarah, it is too bad you missed this time- it was very special.
Mark takes Jess and baby for a twirl.

New Years Pictures & Spangler 1 Update

2007-01-10T18:21:00.000-08:00

Well, here are some of our pictures from the fabulous New Year's bash. We had such a good time! And it's a good thing too, since we needed a good memory to get us through last week.

For any doubters- Mike really can dance!

The group shot is us dancing to "We are Family." Ally is hiding behind Jess in the picture.

Well, we got home from Phx, Addie still having some trouble with her ears, and found out that a mean stomach virus had swept through the neighborhood while we were away. Aparantly it wasn't gone yet, because Addie got it, then Niki. There was diarhea, vomitting, fevers, and general unhappiness. Addie stopped eating, but would nurse, then Niki got dehydrated and couldn't nurse her anymore. Whew!

But God was good, Niki didn't get sick until Friday afternoon just before Greg got home, and he managed to avoid the bug all together and took really good care of us. We are over it now- Niki feels healthy, Addie still has a cold but seems to be OK. I'm sure she's lost more weight because of it all, but what can you do? I think she is destined to shrink instead of grow!

Also, Niki got her root canal this morning. Again, God was so good and worked everything out so that Greg could be home to take care of Addie today. The procedure went well and what a relief to be done with it!!!! I (Niki) am not even in pain now (8 hours later)!

Good luck Brad & Sarah with the house- sounds exciting! Jessie- how are you adjusting? When does Mark arrive in Afghanistan? Julie- Addie misses your turtles and your hallway. We sure miss you all. We will try to post more pictures later!

2007-01-10T17:48:00.000-08:00

Thanks Jess...I was so nervous :) :)

So, we are looking for our lost camera we think we left in Arizona. Plus, Macy's new kitten she bought in AZ is missing all it's medical paraphenalia....of which I am not as concerned with because she will soon forget about it. If you happen to come across either, please send to me and you will be my best friend :)

So, Brad and I have found a house on a cute little street in downtown Greenwood listed for 54,000. It looks like someone started to fix it up and gave up for some reason. I'm going to try to go check it out this week and if it has promise, Brad and his boss will scour it for all possible problems. If all checks out, this will be our first "flip that house." However, due to the current housing market, the flip won't happen for a few years. We'll buy now when the market is ideal for buyers. Fixt it up and live in one house (which ever one we like better) and rent the other out. We'll sell when the market improves. How fun!!! I'm excited. If this one doesn't work out...there are tons of these types of homes that are going for low prices because of the market...and we are going to take the most advantage as possible. We'll keep you updated!

The kids won't stop talking about Mamaw and Papaw and all the aunts and uncles and cousins. Elliott informed me the day we returned that he was not a baby, he was a "boy" :) Dalton starts basketball tomorrow and can talk of nothing else. Jess, are you settling back in to life? Greg and Nikki - how is little Addy??? Mike, heard something about you cutting some pretty serious rug??? Julie, don't get a job...maybe you can help fix up a few houses.

Back to house hunting.....
the shark

CRACK!!!!!!!!

2007-01-09T19:37:00.000-08:00

There I broke the ice. I know we are all so speachless because of what a fun time we had over the holidays. Feel free to chat now people.
Jess

yeah or something like that

2006-12-21T07:55:00.000-08:00

It was so great we came home from our little trip to find ali and macy sleeping together. It was just so cute. I know Ali is going to have more than just a blast with her cousins this week and next. She cried the next day when I told her we wouldn't see them for a few days. Well, I am looking forward to our adventure. We still have all our shopping to do so that will prove to be fun with the kids/ hahahaha. Well, just for the record Mark proved to be a GREAT fireman. He built a fire and kept it going hot all day. It was so great. He was a professional by the time we left.

Jess

We're here!

2006-12-19T18:22:00.000-08:00

We're here and we just had a full day and put most of the kids down for the night. Macy and Alli are in a bed together reading each other stories. Micah and Elliott are sharing a room doing who knows what. Dalton and Michael are glued to the computer playing games together. They're super good pals today. Brad and Galen flew to Walmart to pick up a few things and Julie and I are doing this and doing that - all settling in for the week.

See the rest of you sooner than later!
sarah

I almost feel guilty...

2006-12-17T16:43:00.000-08:00

Well, I am sorry ot hear that Brad and Sarah are so busy, Hopefully by now you are at least enjoying your family, an the thoughts of coat checks and Pork roasts are gone. Well I am writing this to you all, sitting on the plush couch of one of the most amazing rooms I have ever stayed at.

I don't know if everyone knows, but Jess and I decided to do a quick little getaway before the holidays and before I leave. Well I started looking for places on the internet and I found this place. It is incredible. It is in Oak creek canyon, so you know the view is breathtaking. The resort is a community of like 50 little condos that are one and two bedrooms. On our back patio is oak creek and a Hot Tub. The furnishings are all realy nice plus there is a 26" LCD TV with DVD player. and two fireplaces. But I am having some issue with keeping a fire going. THat is the only bad part. I am sorry for bragging bu tI am so excited to get a chance to relax with my wife before the holidays and Afghanistan. What is even better is that this place would be really good with a big family, and I think a couple of the are linked together so we could have a big group all together. Well, I am stoked to see everybody. Talk to you later.
Mark

Sliding into home...

2006-12-11T19:21:00.000-08:00

Brad and I feel like we have begun our slide into home this weekend, week, whatever this is :) We are in charge of our annual Christmas Dinner and this year it's huge huge huge. Since Church was out this past Sunday we have started the chaotic run of events to prepare for Saturday. So, Brad is building a set and re running sound and lights. I am coordinating the team leaders who are cooking a formal dinner for 265 people, set up, tear down, and decorating the entire place, prewashing real dishes (for the most part) for everyone and planning to wash until the break of dawn when the dinner is over....plus we are putting on a really wonderful variety show/narrative Jesus story performance that my mom is directing. It is crazy, but so much fun! As soon as the dinner is over and torn down Saturday night, we'll sleep for a few hours only to wake up Sunday for church and our Dalton family Christmas the rest of the day. Monday we work and Tuesday we jump on the plane. Whew! I'm exhausted :) :) So, I am so so so excited for Arizona - but my mind is spinning with seating arrangements, coat checks, and pork roast :) I am going to be so happy when this is all over!

Jessie - I'm so excited that Mark is coming home sooner than later - and I'm glad you got the package, I hope you can find things that work for your kids - a lot of the stuff I send you has been handed down a few times, hence the slightly worn look :)
Nicki - Hooray for Addie! I think she is prepping herself for a wonderful time in Phoenix. She's a smart girl, I can tell
Julie - your plans sound so great. I can't think of anything to add to your extensive list. I, too, think we should get a gift for the neighbors before we leave...we'll come up with something. I have thought of several crafty and yummy things we can do with the kids - things even the little ones can participate in. I like the daily chore thing. Just tell us our day and we'll be glad to give up kid duty - as a matter of fact, if anyone wants to trade...we'll cook all week if you watch our kids :) :) j/k.

I can't type anymore...my mind is numb. talk to ya later.
sarah

2006-12-11T18:03:00.000-08:00

Is it Christmas yet? Is it Christms yet? Is it christmas yet?

Wow! Where to begin....
I know...let's not worry about a girl's spa day. Whew! That was easy! I'm excited that the kids are so excited to come. Sarah, I was telling Galen yesterday that he will probably have a passenger list to contend with. I can just see Dalton 's mind thinking about travel arrangements! Shot gun in papaw's truck!!! I bet Dalton also remembers the Big Red Trike too!

I intend to talk to Jen (next door) tomorrow or so and let her know what I've been thinking. I have a big tub of things that will go over to their house including bedding, towels, toilettries, kleenex toilet paper etc. I'm so thrilled to have their place that I don't want them to have to provide anything. Maybe we can come up with a cool thank you gift for when they return.

I've been thinking about how we can all share the load of decision making and chore time. Galen and I will love to take on the "lead" chore people and ask that each couple take daily turns with food prep and clean-up.

Example: One couple chooses saturday and they help with food prep and clean-up and decisions about what we will be doing that day. All others will be on kid patrol. Then the couple's switch the next day. Some meals will be stored and can be brought out. This next point is certainly up for discussion, but I think if we want to do a certain amount of eating out...lunch time would be a good choice. (faster, cheaper than an evening meal would be) However, evening meals may have to happen depending on the events of the day.

I have found all my Rx things ( not a large list) but have put it all in a bag in the kitchen. Things like Tylenol, Aleive, Advil, Pepcid AC, Alka-Seltzer Plus cold (tabs) and AirBorne (cool stuff) Triminic (purple) Day Quil and NyQuil (tabs) Menthal rub, bandaids, (spiderman, and Barbie) .

In the daily care department, we have toothpaste, mouth wash, shampoo, conditioner, (for kids too) lotion for kids, puffy soap for kids, bath and body soaps for adults, hairspray, hair gels, shower gels, contact solution. BRING YOUR OWN TOOTHBRUSH, combs and brushes etc. We have a hairdryer and one curling iron.

Laundry can happen as often as need be. I've set aside different sets of towels for everyone, so we can wash them as you want. Sharing tub space (still on laundry)is doable if no one minds. Keeping up with kids clothes may be a priority!

If you can think of anything else that could help as far as Rx or personal needs...let me know.

Hopefully we've covered most of the bases...but I'd like input to help smooth any rough edges. Pre-planning is a good thing!

8 days and counting!

I love you all,

Mom

Sarah

2006-12-10T18:58:00.000-08:00

Hey! Thanks for the package! It's always fun getting a surprise package. Thanks Thanks
Jessica

Hurray

2006-12-09T23:09:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm just too excited. Mark comes home to see us in just a few days. It's so great. He's coming home a few days earlier than expected so that is great too.
Jess

outings

2006-12-09T10:14:00.000-08:00

Greg is always ready to do something, anything, with tools.

Niki is cool with skipping the spa too. A girl movie would be fun, but coffee and shopping would give us more time to talk! That sounds fun.

We STILL have a healthy happy Addie! The streak was broken by one bad day and night, but she seemed to get right over it and is still really peppy and cheerful. She is sleeping well and eating well- I think gaining some of her weight back- and just a joy to be around. Hooray!

I think Christmas is tomorrow

2006-12-07T22:25:00.000-08:00

Wow I didn't realize how soon it is. It's getting exciting! It'll be so great to see everyone and at the same time even. Someone mentioned today how long we had til Christmas and I almost fell out of my chair. I didn't realize how soon it is. I have so much to do before then. It's nuts.

Not to mention I'd lkie to have Micah's first birthday party sometime whiile Mark is here since he will be leaving just days before his birthday. I've bearly even thought about it with all the other planning that has been going on.

Mark's party is coming together. I actually found my dress today and I am super thrilled. I think I actually floated for about 5 hours after the purchase. It still has to be hemmed though. There is no such thing as Jessica buying pants or a dress that don't have to be hemmed. Think about that one. You'd think I'd have a good tailor by now but oh no.... I'll be begging my mother.

It's so cool to see the kids so excited about the holiday party. I'm sure they are so excited to see Mamaw and Papaw again.

Ali and I are going to the nutcracker thingy with my mom tomorrow. It should be a lot of fun. I'll let everyone know how it goes in case we decide to go with some of the kids.

Mark is definitly ready for some tool action. He's chompin at the bit to cut some wood. I'm chompin at the bit to play some games.

I'm cool with skipping the spa.

Ok I can't think anymore so I'm gonna go sleep. I've decided Ali and I have the same sleeping problem. We just take turns on when we can't sleep. I can't from 8-12 then she takes over from 12-3:30 then we both sleep good til Micah wakes us up at 8 or somewhere around there. That's a good solid four and a half hours of sleep. If we couldnt sleep at the same time every night maybe I could teach her how to play settlers or we could knit together or something. Hmmm. Oh well. Nice thought.

I'm not sure what Mark's going to do with us when he comes home.

Jess

11 more days.

2006-12-07T15:38:00.000-08:00

Congratulations Greg and Nikki - I hope she is still doing just as well as the 6 day paradise you had :)
We are all getting very excited here. It's all Dalton and Macy can talk about - going to Phoenix. Dalton remembers every detail from the last time we were there last October. He has planned what toys he is going to play with and all the things he and Papaw will be doing together :) Actually, Macy went to a sleepover a few weeks ago and we had her all packed and ready to go. I went to find Dalton and he was in his room with his suitcase out and he was packing it. I asked him what he was doing (because there was no sleepover for him). He said he was getting ready for Arizona. :) So, we kindly helped him unpack and explained it would a while yet (it was pretty cute).

Sounds like the "adult" gift exchange is all set. I think we should just "wing it" with the kids. If we try too hard to organize a little gift exchange, it may be more work than it's worth. They will be so pleased just to be with everyone ;) I'm going to let Macy and Dalton pick something out for their cousins, probably at the dollar store...so don't be expecting anything too amazing :) It's more to teach them how to give instead always receiving.

I have bought matching shirts for my kids for the plane trip - so I can spot them easily. They are bright orange beatles' shirts. Macy is not extremely excited about them because she says they are boy shirts...definately not fitting for a princess :) We also have all our green shirts picked out for family pictures. Just FYI, our green turned out to be more of an army/olive shade of green..hope that works out ok. Brad wants me to remind all the guys that he is really looking forward to working on some guy projects involving tools. I am looking forward to shopping and doing crafts with the kids, making cookies, and eating. I think we should skip the spa idea, what do you think gals? I think we could have fun for a lot less money. I would be fine with a chick flick without kids - or simply a shopping trip and a cup of coffee.

Julie, I'll give you a call to talk more details about the house next door, what to bring, etc...

See you all soon!
Sarah

We're Here!

2006-12-05T08:04:00.000-08:00

You aren't by yourself! We are here! And we are planning on a $25 limit adult gift exchange (no, not adult gifts, but the adults exchanging gifts). We have one of our gifts already and know you all are going to fight over it!

Should we do something for the kids? We can have them give to each other by drawing names- what do you think of that? I guess they are getting old enough to need to have a way to participate, I hadn't thought of that.

A little happy news from around here- we are happy to report 6 WHOLE DAYS IN A ROW where Addie has not been sick or had her acid reflux torturing her. IT IS BLISS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We are having such a good time!

See you all in a few weeks! Yeah!

A Few Cute Pics

2006-12-04T15:32:00.000-08:00

Christmas presents

2006-12-04T10:50:00.000-08:00

My latest memory ( which doesn't say much) is that we are doing a $25 adult gift exchange where we fight it out for the best gift:) I can't remember if we decided to do anything organized for the kids????? Anyone else remember?????

Sarah

All by myself...... Don't wanna be......all by myself....anymore......when I am blogging.....I think of all the friends I'm hogging (oooooo)...

2006-12-04T08:35:00.000-08:00

Where is everyone? Hello hello.

To gift or not to gift....
that is the question.

Did we figure that out already? I'm not remembering.

oh yeah

2006-11-28T22:03:00.000-08:00

And please don't hold back on any other cute pics of your family you think we may love. We just can't get enough of you guys.

It's funny how much family can be connected when we are all so far apart. Ali was putting on a pair of pants today and she told me they were Macy's pants. I have no idea if they came from her or another batch of hand-me-downs but I was somewhat surprised that she even realizes she is wearing Macy's clothes at all. She also proceeded to tell me she was calling Larry today because he was going to pick up her and then Macy. I wasn't sure who Larry was until she continued to tell me that he was taking them to Lena's house. I wish that I remembered stuff in school as well as she remembers EVERYTHING.

I hope Macy is all Ali remembers her to be. If not I'm sure Ali will follow her around still. Maybe they will build more tents to play in and eat snacks in and even pretend to sleep in. Fun times had by all. Even if you all don't think of us everyday. We think of everyone, through our daughters memory.

Okay I have another funny moment to share. This afternoon I was making party invitations and I was tying knots to go at the top. Ali came over to sit by me and watch. After checking out what I was doing she looked at me and sayed, "Mommy I'm impressed!" I wasn't sure if she had any clue of what she was saying so I had to ask a question. "Impressed? Do you know what that means? What are you impressed with?" She replied, "I'm impressed with you tying those bows." I thought that was so funny and silly that she could use that word that I had her call Mark right away to tell him how impressed she was with Mommy. Well, at least someone appreciates all those little knots I tied. :)

Niki Dearest

2006-11-28T21:54:00.000-08:00

Hey woman you have some great pics of our family from the zoo and from Thanksgiving. I was wondering if you could burn them on a CD for us and bring it at Christmas. If you would I will give you a big fat kiss. Let me know! Jess

A Few Broken Hearts in Phoenix

2006-11-26T20:30:00.000-08:00

Well, we've had a good few days with our Mark. He is now in flight to TX. I hope all is going well with him. It was so hard to say good-bye. Ali was not pleased at all when we told her that Daddy had to go back to TX to work. She's been crying on and off all day. Sad times. We are excited to be seeing him again so soon though. It is going to be here sooner than later. I have so much to get done and accomplish before then. I'm sure it will help pass the time.
Jess

Just practicing

2006-11-24T20:29:00.000-08:00

Happy black friday everyone!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

2006-11-23T05:34:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!!! We are heading down to Brown County to eat a Thanksgiving buffet at the Abe Martin Lodge. It's a really hilly part of town that has trees with all the colors of Autumn and quaint little craft shops. The lodge is tucked up in the hills in the state park. So, we are being blessed today with 60 degree weather. We can eat and then run the kids in the park until we are all completely exhausted. Then, the trip home is just long enough for a pretty good nap.

Of course, we plan on eating again tonight once we return :)

Macy and Dalton are thorouly intrigued with the Macy's Day Parade. Macy has explained to everyone that it is a wonderful parade for her. :) They have yet to see any floats yet - but are waiting anxiously.

Have a great day! See you all in a few weeks.

indianapolis

2006-11-17T13:15:00.000-08:00

Can't wait!
The weather is cooperating here for Thanksgiving...expected 82 that day. Ya whoooo! Dinner is outside! I'm hoping for something at least in the 70's Christmas...because Chrismas dinner will be outside that day also if it is! Here's hoping.

Had the carpets cleaned yesterday, now I'm looking at different room arrangements. Looking kinda cool.

The kitchen is open for EVERYONE'S BUSINESS! Thanks Niki for offering and sharing your ideas. You'll have plenty of help! I'm not sure if Jason will be around a lot, a little or not at all. But if he is...he's a vegitarian (sp) and we can still have what every we want...we just need to make sure there is plenty of fruits and veggies too!

I'm working on a dress-up box for the kids. Right now there seems to be a lot of Princess things...not to worry though,the boys will get some manly things too!

Talk to all of you soon! I'll give Michale a call and tell him to get on the blog sometime this weekend.

Love to all of you,
mom

Another idea

2006-11-17T05:31:00.000-08:00

So I had an idea last night. I have a magazine with Christmas crafts for kids and I got to thinking that on Saturday or Sunday it would be fun to have the grandkids all do a craft together and put together some type of gift for Great Mammaw and Great Pappaw for Christmas morning.

Also, my idea about date night. It may not be the best option. however, there is a really cool lounge area at the Scottsdale Princess resort with big cumfy chairs and these awesome game boards to play games. I thought it would be fun to dress up a little and have dinner somewhere, then go to the Princess for Dessert and games in the fun lounge. But, We're open for other ideas, maybe something more casual? More crazy? More not crazy???

Jessie, That was so funny about allie carrying around the kid's pictures. We've been looking at pictures online and practicing everyone's names with the kids. Dalton has everyone's names perfect - Macy is doing very well except she is confused about baby Jacob from Pennsylvania - she really thinks he is going to be in Arizona :) :) he he. I'll have to see if I have any princess pictures of Macy alone - and I'll send them to Cosco to be printed - you can pick up. :) That's what I'm doing for Julie so she can have hard copies of pics.

gotta g0! bye
sarah

Oh yeah!

2006-11-15T22:42:00.000-08:00

I just had to mention how cute Macy is in her costume. Do you have any pics of just her? I don't know if you realize Sarah but Ali remembers all of you guys. She has even named her favorite doll Macy. She talks about her aunt Sarah and aunt Leena too. She calls you guys on the phone frequently. Now she also talks about her aunt greg and niki :) She would love it if I could get a pic of Macy dressed up. She call her princess Macy. Ali is going to love nothing more then playing with her "friend" It's true. She prays for you all by name. She never misses. I'm going to have to get updated pics from you somehow to print for her. She carries pics of all her cousins around at mamaws house. Addie included. She'll be in hog heaven when they are actually there.

Let the good times keep rolling

2006-11-15T22:37:00.000-08:00

I'm expecting to blink and everyone be here. It is coming so fast. Every time I turn around Thanksgiving is closer and I know Christmas will come even faster.

I'm glad Mark snagged blue. I likie. Ali's crying though she wanted pink. Micah said he didn't mind but I told her daddy doesn't like to wear pink. Oh well for her. She can try to talk her husband into wearing pink for her daughter someday, but that's not how I wanted to spend my phone call. :)

Sarah we would love any ideas for adult night. I think Julie had a few but we haven't put any on the table that I remember. Tell us your brilliant plan. Wha hahahah (wicked laugh).

Niki we would love for you to cook for us. We enjoy your yummy food. We'd never deny anyone the priviledge of cooking. Like, that's a no brainer for us. I'm still kinda like a college student. It is hard to turn down a meal that I don't have to cook. :) Thanks!

Sarah, I think Mark and I will be able to use the same dates you are for some of our other obligations. It is so perfect. And I believe #1 get's in on Friday night so that will be perfect too. The fun we planned doesn't start til the next morning. Another cool thing is that on Christmas Eve in the morning service Micah is going to be dedicated so we are excited that everyone will get to be there. It was either then or after the next baby was born. Don't forget Mark and I are procrastinaters. We are both the youngest in our family after all. We're just trying not to play a different roll :) I was GREAT with child when Ali was dedicated. Oh well. Maybe we should have just waited and got them all done at the same time. We might be waiting for a while then I suppose. Who knows when the madness will end. I might keep getting better at this birth thing and have a bushel and a peck. :) (or not)

I've been rambling long enough. I suppose I'll go to bed now. I love the pics everyone. Oh yeah.....

Becca can't talk either. She called me today but I didn't realize anyone was on the phone. She just kept squeeking. Wierd. So far Ali and Micah can still talk and so can I. I hope this talking continues. If Ali couldn't talk the house would be eerie.

#4 chooses blue

2006-11-15T17:38:00.000-08:00

That's right baby we want blue. It's a favorite. I would even say it is Most favorite. Red and green not favorites, But blue is a favorite.

On another note. Brad and I talked a little while ago about maybe doing some carpentry eork while we are together. I have a very creative project that we could do at my house if the guys are interested, and we could could squeeze it in somewhere. I need to build a special bookcase for the Batman cave. So if you guys think we could knock it out let me know.

Other than that. I too am looking forward to spending time with everyone. It will rock. Well that is all for now.
Mark

Some Pics too

2006-11-15T12:16:00.000-08:00

Greg and nikki - I loved the pictures! Addy is a little doll. I don't think I really ever saw a good picture of her because I never check out your other web page. I can't decide who she looks like - but she's definately cute!
I attached some random pictures from our family. Halloween, raking leaves, Macy at dance class, and the kids on the stairs (please ignore the bad hair day for me). Elliott is getting big, but it's funny to me because of the camera angle how all three kids almost look the same size and age :) It's not that bad in real life, I promise :) :) he he.

We Pick Our Color

2006-11-15T10:09:00.000-08:00

Red- we pick red!

Just to clarify the picture thing- so we take two pictures--- one in dress clothes (our own pick) and one in T-shirts (colored by family)? Is that right?

Julie- I also have no voice now, so whatever voice-stealing bug it is, seems to be we're sharing it. Let's hope at Christmas we don't all share like this!

We loved having a Spangler sampling last weekend and can't wait to come visit! Hopefully Addie will be a nice girl while we're there. We posted tons of pictures from the zoo on our blog- you can go there to see (www.calspangler.blogspot.com), but here are a few to wet your appetite.

As for Christmas- we put our stamp of approval on cookies and caroling on the 23rd, PJ's on Christmas morning (sounds fun), and all the rest. I am especially excited about BINGO! Wahoo! Also, I'd like to make at least one family meal for everyone while we're there- I have some yummy recipes. Is that OK?

Indianapolis would like GREEN

2006-11-14T19:00:00.000-08:00

All your plans and ideas are making me so super excited for Christmas. Mostly, I am so excited for all the kids to be able to spend time with each other and aunts, uncles, mammaws, and pappaws!

So, as much as my personality demands complete control of every situation and I may be a little on the obsessive compulsive side of detailing, etc. I have completely resigned myself to the fact that Jessie and Julie seem to have a handle on everything and our family will arrive and you can fill us in on what we are to do. (within reason, of course...don't get carried away..I have limits :) :) I am very much at ease after seeing all your pre planning, scheduling, and great ideas...that of all the things I am focused on in the next few months, planning the social calendar for Phoenix definately isn't one of them :) Thanks for all your hard work thinking through and getting excited about everything!!!!

Jess, you're right about Brad and I catching up with friends the first few days we're here. We'll devote Tues the 19th to Mamaw and Papaw and settling in somewhere. Wed. the 20th we are planning to shop all day and then have dinner in Queen Creek and most likely stay over till breakfast so we don't have to storm the drive with sleeping children. Thurs the 21st the Murray's will be down from Prescott to visit us and are tentavily planning a family slumber party if it works out ok at the house next door. So, we'll be coming and going a lot, but will be completely "friend free" as of Friday night the 22nd. Does that sound in line with all your plans Jess?

We would like to claim Green for our family color. Brad likes blue and I like red, but I won't wear blue and he isn't crazy about red...so we'll all wear Green :)

I am planning to save all my shopping until we get there@!!!!! I can't wait to make Christmas cookies and go carolling!!!! We're a go with Christmas morning jammies!!! Not sure what to say about the golf issue....maybe just a fun trip to the driving range will be a good answer for the guys. Brad and I have an idea for adult night out.......if no plans have been made yet.

Gotta jet - bye all!

Sarah

2006-11-14T14:22:00.001-08:00

I'm playing catch-up!

What a day I had today...I woke up without a voice ...that's not a big deal! But then I went to get the mail.....double whammy!! There was not one but TWO very polite rejection letters from two of my favorite job opps!! There is good news though...God is working and waiting for the right thing to come up!! I'm kinda excited! Maybe I won't have to GO to work...hmmmm!

Well, now back to the business at hand. I agree...we had a great time with the CA Spangler's. Adie is a doll baby and I bet next time she'll know who we are!! Right or wrong good or bad,I have a tendency to make an impression!! You go girly girl!

About the family pictures: 1) One picture is dressy, fun, something we don't wear to play in, and 2) Each family wears a different color T-shirt so we can see who belongs to who. i.e. CA Spangler's wear Red, IN Spangler's wear Blue ETC. That will keep me from having to wear white (which makes people APPEAR BIGGER) Choose your color here on the blog...first come, first serve. Galen and I choose BLACK!! Jeans will work for the bottoms!! Teal or Yellow anyone? We can be a rainbow, be a rainbow, be a rainbow too! (sing that part)

Is golfing something that can happen? Clubs may be a problem. Other ideas, racket ball, hiking, paintball, bowling, hitting buckets of balls, etc.

When Jess and I were talking...we really liked the idea of going to Christmas Breakfast in p.j.'s. That way we can be more efficient with our time Christmas morning. No one gets to shower and do full make-up jobs for breakfast. There will be plenty of time when we get back home to figure out "clean-up".

If the weather is good... and naps are finished, maybe the dads can take the kiddos to feed the fish and ducks and turtles. There's a great park across the street from the neighborhood lake. They wouldn't have to stay long at either place.

Fireside chats anyone...when children are all snug in their wee little beds, while visions of sugar plums dance in their heads. I'm thinking hot drinks all around and blankets and special desserts...yummy! Kum ba ya!!

I'll post menu ideas soon so we can see if it is something we're even interested in eating. I'm thinking that breakfast can be whenever the spirit moves. There will be a variety of things available and everyone can do their own thing.

Most of this may be a repeat of what has been said in other blogs...but as we get closer we can see the most current update.

Prayer requests:
Journey mercies for all
rested bodies and minds
good health
flexxxibility
encouragement
pray that whoever sees us, sees God
schedules working out for everyone

Prayer praise:
The house next door

Please add to the list anything and everything so that our FATHER will be blessed during this season of celebration. I have a feeling that even God will get a few giggles watching us having fellowship this year!

Lots of hugs and kisses to all,
mom

Things are getting closer and we're getting more specific

2006-11-13T22:14:00.000-08:00

Okay, Julie and I have sat down and figured out a few things and their dates. Here it goes. Let me tell you some of the stuff Mark and I are obligated for during this break first. First, I think Brad and Sarah are trying to visit friends earlier before Greg and Niki are in town so during that time I will try to schedule some of our stuff too. We will need to go visit my family at some point while Mark is in town so we will try to do this around the first few days like the 20 or 21st. Sarah tell me if I'm right about that you guys will have other stuff to do too. Also, I am trying to schedule my ultrasound for when Mark is here so he can find out the sex of the baby and have a moment with his new baby. I'll try to do that on the same two dates. I'd also like to get Micah dedicated while Mark is in town and ALL the family is here. It may have to be Christmas Eve if the church will swing it. I'll beg if I have to. I think it would mean a lot to have our family all there.

So here is the attentative schedule:
Saturday 23rd Julie's house for making Christmas cookies and holiday fun.
Saturday evening we'd like to go caroling as a family and pass out plates of the Christmas cookies we've made.

Sunday morning (Christmas Eve) Church

Sunday evening : Late lunch and Church in evening and then back to Julie's for Bingo and other fun games, snacks and eating our christmas cookies

Monday CHRISTMAS!!! Wake up and don't get ready cause we're all heading to Grandmas and our pajamas are our ticket for a delicious traditional Spangler Breakfast. Whew whooo!!!!

Christmas Evening: Diner at Julie's house and probably more games or even light seeing if we'd like.

We still have room for other fun stuff and of course the needed family pictures. We are still working on the place. Greg is in charge of that and Julie and Jess can do some of the foot work or research.

Some other stuff we may be able to do is a fun christmas theater for kids. I need to check dates to see if there are any during the week. I've heard great things about them and my mom is taking Ali and I to one shortly so I can tell you guys how it is. The cost is about 15 dollars and the food is included and since these are kids shows the food is kid friendly and buffet style.

We could go to zoo lights at some point. We can and should go to the church of joy. The guys need to figure out a time and the clubs for their golf game. We should figure out the date for our adults night out. Oh yes and one more thing that Mark and I have on our plate this holiday season is a wedding. It is the night before his going away party so we will be gone that evening on a wedding/date :) I hope I've thought of all the stuff Julie and I planned. I hope I didn't mess up the order of the christmas events. It'll be a pretty busy few days but at the same time we'll have plenty of time to take naps and enjoy each other. We'll be spending most of our time during those few days at Julie's and at church.

Love you guys! I'm getting excited.

Julie and I just went out to visit Greg, Niki and Addie and had a fabulous time. We even got to go to the zoo. Maybe Greg can put some pics on the blog cause I don't know how. We're excited to see you guys for Thanksgiving and Mark too!!!!!!!! I can't wait. He's so HOT!!!!!!!!!

New Pics on our Web Site

2006-11-06T19:59:00.000-08:00

Okay, there is now a way for me to put pics on our website all by myself! Yeah. So I will put pics on there all the time. I am working on putting pics on there as I type so go check it out. The link is on the side or just type markandjess.com. Good times. Mark will be able to upload his own pics from TX and from over seas. Yeah! It will be cool.

Jess

show sizes

2006-11-05T15:54:00.000-08:00

Elliott 7
Macy 10

Nacho Libre?!

2006-11-02T22:56:00.000-08:00

Sometimes in a man's life he must wear Stretchy pants!

Soundin good

2006-11-02T22:50:00.000-08:00

Okay I like the white shirts with blue jeans. Please don't make me wear a button up shirt. The army idea will be super cute. Khakis would look good too. I'd be up for either. I think we'll all have to buy new white shirts for our kids. We have the same problem. Sounds good to me. Mark wants to wear a red speedo and blue tights. Oh and he said something about a cape of some sort. He's kinda nutty. I'm not sure how you guys feel about that. I think he may stick out a bit.

Jessica

White

2006-11-02T18:26:00.000-08:00

Sounds like white shirts and jeans are a go - and army gear is our casual look. Now, white shirts sounds like an easy thing to come by - but finding a white shirt in my kid's closets will be like finding a needle in a haystack. They have been white at some point - but definately not now. I may have to buy those when I get into town...I'll put it on my shopping list :)

Julie - what's your housing news????????

One on pictures

2006-11-02T14:31:00.000-08:00

We like the "Army" theme too, but as a second picture. We really love having a "formal" family picture in our living room to show how fabulously beautiful the family is. If we wear camoflage, no one will be able to see us! (kidding).

We liked the business-casual look of white button-up shirts and blue jeans, or khakis. I(Greg) think that black jeans will make us look like waiters.

Breakfast at Grandpa and Grandmas! Sweet!

That all for now.

One. Out.

2006-11-02T13:45:00.000-08:00

Idea's are flowing,

I like the "army" theme and also the white T-shirt thing. I think we should put the t-shirt with black jeans.

I'm going to let you all figure out your gift exchange idea... dad and I are all about getting gifts!!
Grandma and grandpa will be hosting Christmas breakfast this year...so Christmas morning may start on the early side of things.

One other thought that would be fun is to go to grandma's and eat breakfast in our p.j.'s. It would help with all the moving and shaking that morning.

A really cool thing is on the drawing board right now concerning housing. It is not set yet...but hopefully by the end of the day I'll be posting with a huge annoucement!!

Keep the good ideas coming!

mom

Mark's great idea

2006-11-02T11:21:00.000-08:00

Mark and Brad talked last night and came up with an "army" theme for our picture. If we all wore various army shirts, gear, camo, etc.. Mark has tons for us...and the kids would look pretty cute. Any takers for that idea????

We want white!

2006-11-02T08:09:00.000-08:00

Yes, I agree that we should coordinate dress for the family picture. We vote for white shirts and jeans. Then you don't have one person's "black" or "blue" clashing with someone else's, AND white shirts would look great in black and white pictures too. Plus, if someone doesn't have a white shirt and needs to go buy one, it won't be something they'll never wear again (everyone needs a white shirt!). That's our vote.
Niki

For Jessie

2006-11-01T19:19:00.000-08:00

Sorry guys this is just for Jessie.
Here are the pix of the treadmill- it is a Lifestyler Expanse 600. It folds up to be more compact. Greg can adjust it for an incline, as shown in the picture, but I don't know how easy it is. He can explain it to you. Give us a call. Hope these help!
-Niki

Family Picture

2006-11-01T11:01:00.000-08:00

So, here are my ideas for the family picture:

Pajamas
Jeans and solid colored shirts
Everyone in fleece pullovers
white, cream, and khaki

Any other ideas????

Spangler Family Communication Center

2006-11-01T08:24:00.000-08:00

Things are lookin good. I think I like the 25 buck generic gift exchange idea. I like fighting over gifts! It brings out the christmas spirit and makes for a good ole time :) Should we pick a theme to make it easier? There are so many themes we could come up with ex may be: Christmas, gadgets, electronic, music, games, fun in the sun etc.

Oh yeah, I don't remember if anyone has brought up dress for the family pics or not. Julie had an idea but I don't remember. It would be kinda cool to color cordinate. We should come up with something before everyone is out here so that the travelers can bring there stuff and anyone who may not have and white shirt, for example, can go get one. Any ideas of what can look good in a family pic. We did the christmas theme last time so we could do that again but I thought it would be fun to do something else this time. Like Purple and Orange for the phoenix suns!!!!!!!!!!!!! Ok I am so kidding.

jess

Stockings

2006-10-30T10:47:00.000-08:00

You're right about the cost effectiveness of a gift exchange versus stockings. Let's plan on an adult gift exchange like I think we've done in the past. Everyone buys a $25 unisex generic gift - and we fight to the death for the one we want :) Is everyone up for that ?

One Extra Day

2006-10-30T07:14:00.000-08:00

We California Spanglers think we can leave here on Friday night, the 22nd. That would allow us the 23rd for a little more fun and frivality. We agree on the essential activities and are up for any others.

dates dates

2006-10-29T12:47:00.000-08:00

I know that Michael is flying in the 19th and flying out Jan. 2nd. So, it sounds like everyone will be in town from Dec. 23-Dec. 28th. Out of those dates, we really have 4 full days for complete family fun!!! :) So, what are the "must do's" while we're all together? I'm assuming the following:

family picture
Christmas eve thing
Christmas morning thing
Christmas cookies, etc...

Brad and I will be using the first few days we're in town to catch up with a few friends. We'll still be around the Spangler stomping ground, but will escape a few times here and there to meet up with people.

gotta jet...sarah

Our Opinion

2006-10-28T17:08:00.000-07:00

Well, we had to talk about it for awhile, and of course we can go along with what everyone else wants, but we would rather do a gift exchange than stockings and here's why. We figured we'd spend about $5 on each person's stocking, and there are 7 stockings to fill (besides our own), which would mean spending about $35. Maybe this is selfish, but we'd rather recieve one $35 gift instead of 7 $5 gifts. Of course, we could make the exchange gift limit lower than that. Anyway, that's our opinion, but we're flexible.

Dates for when we're coming- in order to stay through New Years, we probably couldn't come until the 23rd. We're a little bummed to think you'd all be together starting on the 20th and we'd be missing out, but the 20th to the 1st is too long for Greg to be away from work. It's not set in stone, but it looks like we're coming from the 23rd to the 1st.

And we can't wait!!!!!!

#4's for christmas time

2006-10-27T22:56:00.000-07:00

Okay here it goes. It looks like Mark and I will be ready for fun around the 20th of Dec. He and I are going on a trip together for a few days. ( Don't worry we are already pregnant.) We may need a ride from up north and thought about doing a snowday around then. Nothing is concrete yet but we'll talk more about it when we know our exact location of our trip.

Mark and I would need more details on the stocking stuffing fun in order to like it or hate it. We don't have a good concept of what to put in someone stockings.

Jess

Stocking Stuffers

2006-10-26T03:52:00.000-07:00

What does everyone think about instead of doing any gift exchanges...how about we all bring our stockings and hang them up. On Christmas Eve we can all stuff each others stockings for Christmas morning. Nothing too expensive...we'll have to set some type of price limit so nobody goes overboard.

Like, hate, or don't care??????

Hey! Does anyone else have their dates set???

2006-10-23T18:44:00.000-07:00

So, has anyone chosen their arrival departure dates?????? I'm anxious to get some fun things planned!!!

Sarah

Fun times

2006-10-18T22:55:00.000-07:00

Okay so I'm having fun reading everyones answers to the questions. I've messed up a few of my questions by answering wrong. I'd like a putter and a red lamborgini diablo. I think we are all being psycoanalyzed by the answers to our questions. Hmmm. Julie is it true?!!!??? Which charater from Princes Bride am I? (Never mind. Maybe Mark will get it.)
Jess

All... ok some about Mike

2006-10-17T20:01:00.000-07:00

I think that the idea for housing is fine. As long as I can crash somewhere I'm good with that.

GIFT EX. Again, great idea. We need to really jump on it though.

My info to the questions:
size 10.5 - 11
Books-- Classics or Adventure ie. Dickens or Cronicles of Narnia
Music-- All genre except rap. or If it has a good beat that "makes me want to boggie" -Mike Myers
As for Car...
1979 Triumph Spitfire Roadster Navy w/ white and silver pinstriping
Plasma.. Pshaa I would prefer a digital projector and a wall screen, thank you. Hitachi
If I must give my heart to one it must be to a snad wedge.
Cannon, no reason
Vacation -- St. Crouix by means of wind driven vessel.
tooth brush-- I would dig a ***Grover*** blue or a spongebob yellow
Room temp Heinz, chilled just changes it
Cereal-- Hands down my money go to the Rasen Bran Chunch
It grabs the flag for good and healthy

any ?'s good ask me later its time for sleep
Bye

Speaking of weighing in....

2006-10-17T16:56:00.000-07:00

the dieting and excercise has taken a serious plumet in the last few weeks - don't look for the skinny poles at the airport when we arrive, we're still sporting the healthy cushy look. :)

California Spangler Weigh In

2006-10-17T11:14:00.000-07:00

…and finally the California Spanglers join the rest of the world on the internet again. We are happy to report that our modem is fixed and we are BACK. We have some answers for Julie’s questions too!

-Shoe sizes: Greg ( 101/2-11 ), Niki (7 ½ / 8), Addie (2 for now, probably 3 soon)
-Addie is still in the 6-9 month size, but should be transitioning soon into 12 mo. I would think she will stay in that size all winter.
-Books: Greg hasn't read much fiction as of late and Tom Clancy isn't writing books that he likes anymore. But, he liked reading Lemony Snicket's "Unfortunate Events" Book the First. , Niki likes some fiction- John Grisham, Nicholas Sparks, and is interested in a little known author named Roxanna Robinson. We mostly read Christian growth books and have recently discovered Warren Wiersbe. We like anything from him!
-Music: A strange assortment! We like top 20 Christian Pop. We like Randy Travis’ Christian CDs (he is a country musician who has crossed over to Christian music).We like old crooners like Nat King Cole & Frank Sinatra and their current counterparts Micheal Buble and Harry Connick Jr. We also like Musical Soundtracks (think Oklahoma and South Pacific).
-Cars: We both like deep blue Honda Odeyssys and Yellow VW Bugs (the new ones), Niki likes PT Cruisers (any color), blue Volvo Station Wagons, and red & white stripped old Ford 250 trucks and Greg likes pretty much anything Honda. Those things just go and go. He'd drive a hybrid of some kind. Maybe a Hybrid Escape, or Hybrid Toyota Camry.
-Plasma TV brand: Panasonic or NEC. And if Plasmas aren't out there, there are some really awesome LCD TV's as well.
-Golf clubs: Niki doesn’t know and Greg would like a Taylor Made 13 degree r7 driver
-Cameras: we have a Canon digital that rocks, but would love a camcorder, Panasonic or Sony MiniDV. We were hoping to buy one on Ebay but are waiting to get a good price.
-Vacation Destination: Somewhere warm and fun, preferably taking a ship to get there. Like the Caribbean. Niki would like to go to HAWAII or Greece.
-Toothbrush: Niki pink, Greg blue , medium to soft on the bristles
-Ketchup: Heinz 57 of course!
-Favorite Cereal: Niki likes Honey Bunches of Oats w/ Peaches because the peaches taste so dang good! Greg likes Kellogg's raisin bran. He always has.
-Favorite toiletries- we will bring them with us but thanks!!!
-Snacks for Addie- Cheerios, Cheerios, Cheerios and horribly enough she doesn’t like the generic, just the real thing (who is this kid?). I don’t give her many snacks now, but closer to Christmas I probably will be. We’ll just steal the other kids food. J

Mark's Answers

2006-10-16T18:40:00.000-07:00

This is a little strange but I am not going to question it.

Shoes 14 still
Books: Self improvement, being a better man type and fiction
Music: Christian, up beat
Car: This is a tough one. I like trucks, but cars are cool too, but Riding on a a Fat Hog with my wife on back would be cool. I fi she wasn't pregnant. So I am going to say a black bmw z4 roadster.
Plasma TV: I don't know much about this but I think the Panasonic Aquos is sweet.
Golf Club: Callaway Great Big Bertha Driver
Camera: We have all the cameras we need, but a Telephoto lens for our new camera would be awesome
Vacation: I think a week long drive up the Pacific coast highway would be sweet. Or a Houseboat on Powell

Toothbrush: Light blue and white

There you go. that's my list I hope it helps.

By the way I have shootimg and blowing stuff up lately and it has been sweet. I am still working on getting some pics and video.

Ketchup: Heinz is the only way to go
Cereal: Like usual I am going to choose to eat the same thing as Brad and go with Cinnanmon toast crunch. I dig the swirls.

we are already wearing our winter coats.

2006-10-16T17:57:00.000-07:00

jess,
Don't worry about the party. We'll be sad to miss it, but I have a feeling we'll have our own little family going away tear shedding before we take off :) Call me so we can talk about the unspilt beans.

I've been thinking through a schedule of sorts....does anyone else have dates set aside?????

the shark

Yo

2006-10-16T16:01:00.001-07:00

Ok so it feels like a centruy since I've been on here. I think I'm all up to date.

Sarah, Thanks so much for the clothes! It was like Christmas :)

Okay this really stinks but Mark's party is on new years eve. I'm not sure what to do about this since the Indy crowd is leaving before then. I'm gonna have to think long and hard. I can't spill beans on here.

Gosh the questions will take a while to answer let me start.

I feel like I'm answering a myspace survey.

Sizes: Micah 12-18mo Ali 2T or 3T

Shoes: Jess (ever changing 8 for now) Micah ???? Ali ????

Books: Jess hmmm I love Non fiction

Music: Jess: loves a lot of it. Loud and fast and Christian

Car color: Jess Red

TV: Jess Panasonic

Golf club: Jess Magique golf clubs

Camera brand: Sony

Vacation dest: Serenghetti

Color Toothbrush: Red or Pink

Ketsup: Generic Walmart brand

Fav Cereal: Don't ask when I'm pregnant ali loves raisin bran and micah loves plain jane cheerios

Foods for Elliott

2006-10-15T18:16:00.000-07:00

These are off the top of my head. I am planning to go shopping as soon as we arrive to get Elliott friendly foods. Feel free to have any food anyone wants in the house - Elliott rarely eats something without me knowing it - but here's a few just for FYI:

Pop tarts
Graham crackers (usually generic) or teddy grahams
popcorn (most are fine, not all)
Soy yogurt
bananas
baked lays
granola bars (depends on brand)
marshmallows
peanut butter and jelly on iron kids bread
uncrustables in the freezer
organic waffles
toffu cream cheese
vegetable butter
vegetable cheese
oatmeal (usually generic brand)
Ritz
Grapes
Applesauce
hotdogs (most)
Corndogs (some)
Tyson brand chicken nuggets

There's obviously more, but those were the ones I could come up with tonight - like I said, I would love to run to the store when we arrive on Tuesday.

Love,
Sarah

Answering Julie's questions, TAKE TWO:

2006-10-15T18:04:00.000-07:00

Ok - this will be shorter and not quite as witty as the first time I answered all these questions.

1. Housing - I think we have this worked out with Julie. We'll bunk with our kids in Julie and Galen's house somewhere. We won't need any cribs - Elliott has been sleeping in a big boy bed all week, and is doing great!

2. Gift Exchange - Brad and I thought we should do an adult gift exchange and a separate kid exchange. Keep in mind no matter what we do for gifts - some of us have to travel with three kids...can we do "the smaller the better???"

3. Entertainment - we have liked everyone's ideas so far. I think as soon as everyone else picks out their dates or arrival and departure, we should put together a calendar and make sure we have several planned events and a few ideas for spontaneous fun.

4. Julie's crazy question -
Shoe Size: Brad (12), Sarah (9), Dalton (11), Macy (? - I'll check), Elliott (?- I'll check)
Clothing: Dalton (5T shirt, 4T pants), Macy (4T shirt, 3T pants, 4T dress), Elliott (3T shirt, 2T pants).
Books: Sarah (Christian Fiction), Brad (Annointed for Business - whatever that is)
Music: Sarah (I've been trying to track down an international CD by the "Beautiful South"), Brad (Christian top 20)
Car: Sarah (Black H2 Hummer), Brad (Black F350 Crewcab King Ranch Edition)
Plasma TV: Sony all around
Golf Club: Ping for Brad - also looking for a junior set for Dalton - he's pretty good
Camera: We have a digital, but would love a camcorder
Vacation: CRUISE!
Toothbrush: Sarah (red), Brad (blue)
Ketchup: Heinz, there is no other
Cereal: Sarah (grapenuts - love the taste, love the crunch), Brad (Cinn. toast crunch - the little bakers are cute).
Toiletries: We are super easy - we'll use whatever's there.
Food: I'll post a separate blog with the foods Elliott can eat. My only request to all the adults is that we label sippy cups with kid's names and that milk is only given at a table - no traveling milk cups. That would make my life a ton less stressful. Thanks!

Indy Spanglers

Answering Julie's questions:

2006-10-13T18:49:00.000-07:00

I typed a really long message here - and then it all got deleted...I'm going to retype in a minute or two.

We have our DATES!!!!!!!

2006-10-13T18:46:00.000-07:00

We finally bought our airline tickets. We had to search and search and search. The prices are all over the place and the ideal dates were completely gone. So, we finally came up with a date and price we were ok with. We will be arriving Tuesday, December 19th and leaving Thursday, December 28th. We won't be around for New Years, but like I said, some dates just weren't affordable. Both flights are in the morning - I'll email the details to Julie as soon as I receive my email confirmation from USAirways.

Now let's get this party planned!!!!!

Sarah

2006-10-12T22:27:00.000-07:00

Merry Christmas Thoughts!

I don't even know where to begin...so I'l just start brain storming! Please remember...these are just thoughts being thrown out there for others to mull over and kick out maybe in a different direction or somewhere towards the circular file.

1. Housing
We're thinkihg that Greg and Niki and Addy can have two rooms (the ones they've used before.
Brad and Sarah and kids can have our bedroom which will house them pretty well. One King bed and two twin mattresses (not blow up) and one blow up bed hopefully from Jess and Mark.
We have an option of an additional house (Gebhardt's) which Galen and I can use.
Michael can stay at our house in the office on a blow up mattress, or at the Gebhardt's or (I'm presumming) at M&J's place.

All of these ideas can change...but keep in mind...there's a rather LARGE dog at the Gebhardt's (not really a problem..we like Lefty) but it's a matter of taking care of him too!!!

2. Gift exchange

Is everyone up for giving gifts? do we want to

Draw names
Make our gifts
Set a $ amount
All the above
None of the above

Dad and I will be doing something for everyone...(we have a cool idea) so the gift exchange will have to be done without our imput.

3. Entertainment

I just found out that I will only have 1 wedding cake due the Sat. after Christmas instead of two. However, I will still have to deliver. I'll have the cake done (hopefully) before everyone gets here...anyway that's the plan. We will NOT be going to CA after all. Yeah...we would have been gone for the weekend.

Zoo lights at the Phoenix zoo
A church drive-through listening to an on-sight program as you drive. (at the Ccommunity of Joy church around the corner. Beautiful---must see!
Spa day for girls
Golfing or bowling for guys
We could concider Ah So's for dinner Brad and Sarah have a place like this out their way.
Meet and greet friends
Shopping?
Movie night or day?
General games (Greg could we do that Mafia game? Brad could we have you bring Family feud? And Michael...how 'bout that game you taught us last year..I can't remember the name...but we liked it!

4. General info

Galen and I need some important info from everyone...ASAP. We're talking peronal info that other's may want as well! So...give it to us straight!!!

We need shoe sizes for EVERYONE! Please be as accurate as possible. Both adults and kids.
We need to have kid sizes for clothes as best you can tell for the winter season.
What genre of books each adult likes. Authors/Titles
What genre of music each adult likes. Group/Titles
What kind and color of car each adult likes.
What brand of Plasma TV each adult likes.
What one golf club would each of you prefer.
What brand of camera would each of you prefer.
What one vacation destination would your prefer.
What color toothbrush would you wish for?
If you could have any ketsup in the whole world...what would it be?
What is your favorite ceral and why?

These questions are vital to the success of our family gathering which is to take place in just weeks. So please...with an incredible amount of detail give us the information we need AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

5. Out of towners.

To help with your packing Please send me a list of your favorite shampoos, hair conditioning, toothpaste, soaps etc. They can be here waiting for you.

Also, give me a list of food snacks the kids CAN have. If you don't want them to have certain foods...it won't be here.

I'll close for now...

I love you,

Mamaw!

:(

2006-10-09T18:44:00.000-07:00

Greg and Nikki, I hope you get everything fixed. I'm so sad for you :(

So, we still haven't made definate plans for Christmas. I'm starting to feel the pressure, though, about making so decisions quickly. I'm putting our candlelight dinner together for church, and as I look at the calendar to work out details...I realize that December is SO CLOSE. We'll let you all know as soon as we have some dates to share.

Indy Spanglers

Broken down on the side of the information superhighway...

2006-10-05T09:36:00.000-07:00

Our apologies to all who frequest our blog site, as well as our noted absence from this blog. We still have internet issues, or at least our ability to connect is still "out-of order."

Here is a brief reprise of what has happened.

Sept. 1- Our SBC/ AT&T DSL modem-router-wireless gateway crashes. (Noteably, the same day as our A/C.)
Sept. 5- After discovering that a replacement from AT&T costs $110+tax, I order one from an online merchant for $40. Gearxs.com.
Sept.12- "New" modem/router arrives
Sept. 13-16- "New" modem works intermittently, I try AT&T tech support and user groups to get help.
Sept.17- Buy new power supply for "New" modem. Other people tried this solution with success. No success. Call AT&T tech support, they send out a tech.
Sept. 18 - AT&T tech says "Something's wrong with your modem...nothing I can do, that will be $60." No kidding.
Sept. 19 - Submit a return request for replacement merchandise. Ship modem to Indiana via FedEx ground.
Sept 27- FedEx tracking indicates package is delivered.
Sept 29- Gearxs.com "returned item received"
Oct 2-3- Gearxs.com offices closed in observance of Yom Kippur.
Oct 4- **Deep Sigh** Wondering if we will ever cruise the internet superhighway again. Feeling like the poor people on the side of the road with an overheated junker, waiting for the tow-truck to arrive.
Oct 5 - Called and ACTUALLY got someone. Lady said that the return will be processed today. Really? I wonder...

When we're back, we'll flood ya with stuff.

We love you all,
Greg and Niki- waiting on the the internet sidelines next to a clunky modem with a blown gasket...sort of.

WHO WANTS COOKIES???????

2006-10-02T17:59:00.000-07:00

I'm announcing the first ever Spangler grandchildren FUND RAISER!!! :) :) Macy started Dance classes tonight and they, of course, handed us a fund raiser as soon as we walked through the door. It's to offset the cost of her recital fees (recital in June). So, I hate fundraisers, and I always buy from other people because I feel pressured, but I never really want the stuff. BUT HOLD ON TO YOUR HATS....this is a catalog full of Otis Spunkmeier cookie dough!!!!!!!! I know you all want some. :) Just tell me how many 3 lb tubs ($14 a piece...kinda pricey...but's it's for the darling recital) , Send me a check, and I'll smuggle the dough to you all in December. I might even invite you to the June recital.

love,
sarah

2006-09-27T11:54:00.000-07:00

To all y'all
Howdy, I i'm glad I could talk to all of you. I have a little secret. Come closer. A little closer.
I AM STINKING UPSET YEAHEAEAEAEAEAEAEAEEAGH!!!

Whew. that felt good. I just discovered that my best laid plans may not actually work. I had hoped to remain down in Groton until the beginning of Fall 07 semester. I was looking at a potential class schedual for the Spring and it seems that All three of the classes that i had intended to take might be scheduled for the same time on tuesday/thursday.

Long story still long I am asking all of you to pray with me. I want to be humble to God's will and I also want to know His will. I am asking all of you to pray for a clear direction that I should take.
Love and Peace
#3

Sarah

2006-09-25T21:38:00.000-07:00

Wow sounds fun. Not. I will definitly be praying for you guys. I have no advice of my own only what my mother and Pam tell me and that is keep it up, don't give in and be consistant. Oh yeah and don't give in. My mom assured me that if I gave in once it would keep the madness going for a week more. That struck fear into my heart and so I remember her saying that when I want to give in just a little. I hear "more for a week, more for a week" That is all I've got. The advice has worked for me this week though. It took two hours plus of spankings to get Ali to bed one night and the next it only took one hour and tonight I was ready for a battle and the child didn't even cry. I'm so glad I didn't give in. It is much harder with other things like hitting and tantrums, especially around others. Just keep in there. Know I am praying for you and Keep in there some more. You just have to hold out one minute past him. Whatever you guys have decided on you just gotta keep it up. I'm sure he'll live to be five. And then the peace will reign again.

I'm glad to hear the second child is even easier. I'm not sure what the second child phenomenon is. I'd love to be enlightened.

I'll call you tomorrow with the info. I just don't want to post it on the net.

Thanks
Jessica

What? 4 Year old pushing the limits?????

2006-09-25T19:08:00.000-07:00

What an interesting question, Jessie. If any of you are looking for something to pray for...maybe think about praying that I will allow Dalton to live to age 5. The past week has been absolute terror for he and I. Twice, I have drug him from someone's house kicking, screaming, hitting, and throwing the tantrum from, well, hell, as far as I'm concerned. You wouldn't believe it unless you saw it. Please pray for me as I sort throught the reasons why this is happening and the most effective punishment. We are trying everything we can think of and are open to suggestions. So far, we have spanked, spanked with a belt, taken away toys, and taken away priveleges. Any other suggestions??????? I am cracking down on him in alot of other ways right now and praying fervously that this is a phase and not the introduction to the highlight of his personality. Seriously, I need help right now, and I could use some serious support and prayer.
Thanks,
Sarah
oh, yes, and the second child is definately easier...as far as this family is concerned. Macy is submissive, compassionate, fearful, and respectful. She does disobey occasionally and she does get punished, but the crime and the response to the crime are the classic "second child" phenomenon.

2006-09-25T12:56:00.000-07:00

Jessie,
What's your address? I have the boxes all set to go...just don't know where to send them.

Also, What's Mark's cell phone number?

Sarah

#1's blog

2006-09-24T22:04:00.000-07:00

Okay I just want to point out what has already been pointed out but there is finally someone's genes that out-do the spangler genes! Go Niki! Go Niki! Tee Hee I love your updates. I can't believe that Grant is a whole year old. Oh my goodness. That means Addie is next to follow soon enough. So did she like the cake?

Spangler #4's

2006-09-24T21:42:00.000-07:00

Well, we are all doing swell here in AZ. Ali is enjoying testing boundaries and I am enjoying the process of making sure she knows they are still there. Okay neither of us are REALLY enjoying that but, Niki, something great to look forward to in about eight months. Learning boundaries and testing them are sure fun things to do. I've heard they go through another fun boundary stage at about four. Sarah, is this true? I keep wondering if Micah will be as tough as Ali. What do you think Sarah and Julie. I mean the second children are angles right?! I was I'm sure. :) Tee hee. Okay well, I can't imagine Micah ever throwing a tantrum over bed time :) Someone print this out to show me when he's eighteen months old.

Spangler #1's I am so excited to hear about your "new" church. Man it is so cool to see God working all over the US. I've thought about you guys and prayed for you this week. We have an exciting new ministry starting at our church too. As you know Bethany is located around a huge amount of hispanic families. We have been trying to reach these people but haven't suceeded much. Recently we hired a spanish speaking pastor and already we have several more hispanic families. We start a service in Spanish on Oct 1. It is so cool. I am actually singing in spanish in their praise team. It has been so much fun practicing with the group. We are small but God is blessing us. I can't wait for the services to start. We've been passing out fliers and going to peoples houses to invite them to our church. I got excited when you told me about the hispanics near you church. It is so cool that we don't have to go to the mission field to reach people of another culture and language. God has even brought you to their door step. As I pray for our ministry I'll be praying for yours too. I can't wait to hear what God will do in your new building.

Another thing Mark and I really need prayer for is our Condo to sell. I know I asked before but I'm going to have to ask again. It's a struggle with the bills for two places.

Boys, Mark is out of the field. I'm sure he'd love a few brotherly phone calls. He has his cell phone. Don't forget to give him a smootch in the ear from me :) Thanks haha

Jessica
Oh yeah, Niki I was serious about you bringing your cute little kiddo here to see us. (we want to see you too) I think her cheeks need to be kissed by her aunt jessie

Our first Sunday.

2006-09-24T18:16:00.000-07:00

Our first Sunday went great! Our attendance was a record high, my dad had the whole congregation do the hokey pokey with music and all !!! :) (the place used to be a skating rink). I was locked away with the 2 year olds all morning in my newly decorated and semi permanent classroom. It was super fun. After church, we walked next door to have lunch at El Rodeo (Mexican). There were about 10 other church families all eating there, too. There was only one other family in the whole restaurant that didn't go to our church :) It was so much fun to feel like such a church family. Being at temporary locations can really leave a church body feeling dislocated somehow...and this big move is bonding us together quickly. It is a rough neighborhood...so pray for safety. We want to minister to the community and also keep our families safe.

Have a great week all!
Sarah

Big changes!!

2006-09-21T18:28:00.000-07:00

Whew!!! This week has been a whirlwind for the hoosiers. After having been moved from one building to another for almost 8 years, setting up and tearing down every Sunday morning, our church has finally found a home for about 1 1/2-2 years.....and we made it all happen in about a week and a half....or God made it happen, really :) Seriously.

This last school we were meeting at, Center Grove Middle, was asking us to leave...the last Sunday being this past Sept. 17th. So, as of Sept. 15th we still had no idea where we were going to put our congregation of 500. There was a building for lease that the Vineyard Church had left a few months ago. The owners of the building were originally planning on tearing the structure down and rebuilding some anchor stores because it is right across the street from the mall. Well, about 2 weeks ago we noticed a for lease sign. The owners had decided to lease it for a minimum of 18 months and maybe longer. We had all the church leaders go look at it, got estimates put together for all the fix up work, put an offer together, and the offer was accepted all in about 1 1/2 weeks time. So, last Friday we finalized the new building and had 10 days to prepare. We went to a local school auction and bought all the chairs, tables, desks, and bookcases our church will need even for the future for a whopping $2200.00!!!!!!!! Wow! This week we've had people painting, spackling, repairing, replacing toilets, new signage, mailings out, new kitchen appliances, sound system put in, carpets cleaned and replaced, and classrooms put together so we can have service This Sunday!!!!! We are so excited.

The place looks awesome and the best part.....90% of the hispanic population in our town live within walking distance. There is no hispanic church or ministry in this town....so that is our first mission field. We have 3 spanish speaking people in our church who will be heading up hispanic services.

I spent a whole day this week buying trees and plants for the sanctuary/foyer and this weekend I'll get my 2 year old class all decorated and organized. Brad, of course, has been working tirelessly on the sound/media/techy stuff. Pray for us this Sunday as we celebrate our first church home, as we dig our heals in, and as we see our church body step up and take joy in our opportunity to share the gospel.

As for Christmas.....I absolutely love the cookie/card/nursing home idea. I think we need projects to work on. Can we think of any other family projects????? Julie, I really like the light show thing where you listen to music. I love Christmas music. Everyone bring your favorite Christmas CDs so we can pump it all week!!! Can we do anything for your neighbors maybe??? Deliver pies or cookies and bibles and carol???? I'm kind of caffeinated right now!!!!

I'm very sad about Molly, Julie. Although she was an animal, I know the timing of her life bridged the gap between motherood and empty nesting. I can only imagine how much she meant to you.

So, my latest travel idea is to trade our minivan in for a big conversion van and drive out. Some conversion vans are almost as cozy as motorhomes :) Then, we'll just stop at hotels. :( I don't know....I'll keep thinking. Brad has a new truck with his job and have the saturn, so we don't really need our minivan anymore....just an idea. Brad's job is still going really well and keeping him super busy. I still love my job! I'm learning so much about health insurance and pediatrics....it's super fun. Dalton has his first "show and tell" day - tomorrow at preschool. Guess what he chose to bring????? Greg and Nikki, you'll be pleased to know it is the 5 little Duckling book - it's his favorite. I don't know if he plans on reading it to the class or what? We'll see. He has made two friends, Jake and Katie. He talks about Katie more than Jake :) Macy has turned into a little Betty Crocker. She plays pretend dishes for hours at a time and is constantly talking about food. Elliott is talking more and is the true Spangler in our household. There is constantly a sparkle in his eyes and I see little glimpses of practical jokes lurking in his brain. He IS freaked out and totally in love with dogs. When he is in the same house as a dog, he spends the entire time following the dog around and when the animal finally pays him any attention he runs screaming bloody murder. It's pretty funny. ;)

Man, I'm just one big run on blog tonight. I should stop. Later taters.
Sarah

help is on the way.

2006-09-21T06:27:00.000-07:00

Mom, I may have just discovered the potential solution to your computer problem. I am not claiming any sort of genuis. There are two paths to knowledge, through text and through expiriance.

For everyone else I miss yous guys. I am still chugging allong (like a train not a college student hehehe). Well, I pray that God continues to bless y'all and work in the hearts and minds of your children.

You Bro,
Mike

Some Ideas We Love

2006-09-20T08:32:00.000-07:00

OK, so maybe they are ideas I love- I haven't talked to Greg yet. :) Can we please make cookies and cards for the elderly and go visiting and singing?! That is just the greatest idea ever. Im sure you all know about the love fest between little kids and old kids. I'm sure we could find some folks who would enjoy a visit. Of course we like all the other ideas a lot too.

Secondly, Julie & Galen- so sorry about Molly. I know she was part of the Spangler tribe for a looooong time, so I hope you can adjust to life without her quickly.

Thirdly, thanks for all the pity for me, but I'm good. Greg and I have gone out a few times (though admittedly a little more often would be fun). It is easy to go out once Addie is in bed, it just leaves our window for fun a little shorter, and doesn't include dinner. (but that is good for the budget anyhow). Remember- I like to cook and like to be home, so I can think of things a lot worse than this. We do hope that she will fit into the statistics and out-grow her reflux at around one year old. For her sake more for ours!

I can't write much because we are having trouble with our internet connection and I could get bumped off at any moment. Will try to respond to more things later!

Niki

This is mom coming to you from M&J/s house.

2006-09-19T12:33:00.000-07:00

I'm hoping to HAVE an idea or thought!!

Dad and I had a great time in FL this past weekend and he was able to place 10th (of 45) in the 3axle division. I'll give you three guesses as to what dad forgot to do...and the first two guesses don't count! (You'll have to guess to find out the answer!) We were able to spend part of the day at Epcot and had a good time. Orlando will be back in the picture in two years...anyone want to go th Walt Disney World in two years?

On a sad note...The day we left for FL...we had to say goodbye to Molley! What a great friend. She was silly and argumentative and all the rest...but she was our's. She'll be missed probably more than I'm willing to even admit right now. I can't tell you over the phone...cause I tear up etc. So....on with way cool OTHER thoughts!

I truly do want to focus on the year's greatest happenings all in the month of December. I feel blessed to have the great Spangler Homecoming tour headed straight to Glendale AZ. Jess has been able to keep you all very well informed of things we talk about at this end. (Again I'm without my computer) I'm going to call in the calvary in just about a minute!!!

We are willing to to go out to eat, but will have pleanty of meals ready to pull out of pantries and freezers to help feed the troops. (Technically, we'll have only 1 troop among us though) The Christmas Light parade is around the 1st weekend in December, but we have lots of other light shows to see. Glendale glitters is always a hit for light seekers. The Church of Joy (across the street) always has a great show of lights that you drive through and listen to a radio station of Christmas music. There is the zoo lights in Tempe and while there we could see the stuff around the water near that Park(can't think of the name of it). I'll check the papers and internet for childrens plays and things.

I can make several different kinds of cookie dough and we can all have the "cookie making tradition" and then in lieu of eating them all ourselves...we give them out to others if we want to go Christmas Caroling.

I'm still coming down from our little trip...but wanted to touch base with you all. You are soo missed and loved. Hugs and kisses to all of you and my precious love bugs.

I'll talk to you soon again.

Julie

Sounds like a plan to me

2006-09-19T00:48:00.000-07:00

I like the idea of planning before as much as possible. I'm in. I'm so glad you are good at finding all the things to do. I'll let you all know the date for Mark's party ASAP.

It's all good about the food. It's just a back up plan in case we are to tired to do anything else. It just may come in handy but no one is obligated.

I forgot to list caroling on the list of ideas. Niki, I think that is such a good idea. I have several ideas abou that but it doesn't matter to me how we do it. I've been making Christmas cards in hopes to give them to elderly people alone or stuck home for christmas. I was also hoping I could get a group to carol and pass out Christmas goodies to them. We don't have to do it but it would be the perfect group and they would all love the kids. It would be so great if it worked out.

I agree that we need to get Niki on the town. As Ali would sing... Greg and Niki sittin in a tree kissyng. I'm sure God will work it out for ya. Sounds like your babe is on the up and up. Two days is better than no days.

Well there are only like 18 days til we get to have a weekend with our beloved Mark. We are counting down every day. We miss him so much.

Jessica

Food, Fun, and Family

2006-09-18T17:52:00.000-07:00

I've been surfing the net looking for Christmas things to do in Phoenix and I have already found tons of great things. There is a Christmas light parade - a dinner theatre that has matinees for kids, showing the nutcracker musical for children - plus tons of other theatres, show, lights, etc.. I think we'll find plenty of things to do. We probably just want to decide how many events we want to pre purchase tickets for and how many things we want to "wing". ******** My personal opinion is to pre plan as many things as possible because once we get there, we will all be in vacation mode and not in "planning" mode. Also, Brad and I would like to set aside a little time to see some friends. If we can know ahead of time when the whole family may not be in town yet, nothing else going on, etc...then we can plan to see friends then. I would say plan on us being in Phoenix from Dec 24-Dec 31. If the dates change, it will most likely be more days at the beginning or end - but those are the for sure days.

Speaking of vacation mode. Brad and I are considering this vacation the first family vacation we've taken where we get to splurge a little. So, we'll probably be eating out a little too much and enjoying every minute of it. Wherever we decide to stay, we'll just plan on stocking the place with our favorites....and foods that Elliott can eat, too. We are slowly learning how to feed the whole family on Elliott's diet. Don't worry about us for the premade meals unless it 's for a specific meal we're all doing together anyways.

I love the family picture idea!!!! Always a good idea on these rare times we can all be together.

Nikki, I hope Addie will be ready for you to have a night out by December. She'll be 1yr right? That's when you'll be able to ween her from nursing to whole milk - so hopefully that will make a big difference. And the whole hestirical thing - that's why we PAY babysitters :) :) But, I have a question.....have you had any time away from her? Have you really not been able to have a date night or just a break? If you truly aren't comfortable with a babysitter....would you be open to allowing us to maybe take turns watching each other's kids while adults get to go out. And, of course, there's always the girls go out, guys stay home and vice versa. Let's get you out on the town sweety...it just isn't right! :) :)

So, Greg and Nikki, what is your preference for housing? Seems like you have your array of options. Let us know if you're interested in bunking with the Indy Spanglers in a rental - I'll look for one that has a place for everyone to have their own space.

I gotta go to bed .....goodnight.
Sarah