Allsup Adventures

First Texas Snow

2011-02-10T07:55:00.000-08:00

We had a great 1st day in the Texas snow!! It was about 19 degrees when we were playing outside. The next couple of days it didn't get above 10....we stayed inside.

Merry Christmas & Happy 2011 from the Allsup Family

2011-01-04T17:02:00.000-08:00

We had an absolutely wonderful Texas Christmas with Matt's Mom, Dad & brother Chris, and our dear friend Jillian who took this picture of us all. God truly blessed us in 2010. When the worlds cards were stacked against us, God provided a way out, as He always does. It is difficult to start over in a new place with no family, or even friends as of yet. But God has always seen us through and made us better by His will. We are confident He is doing that again. May God Bless you all in 2011, according to His perfect will.

I love my kids!!!!

2010-12-21T07:15:00.000-08:00

So today, Dylan was laying on the floor next to Papa's feet. He was playing with Papa's velcro on his shoe. Papa said to him, "Dylan, you love my shoes don't you?" Dylan's response, "I do love your shoes Papa, but don't worry, I'm not coveting." LOVE IT!!!

Kindergarten

2010-12-02T13:38:00.001-08:00

Kaidee & Lucas are both in Kindergarten this year. Our schooling is going really well and we are absolutely LOVING our "Learning Center" in our new home in Texas!!! Homeschooling 4 kids at a time takes up a lot of space and I am so grateful to have it all in one place here :) All of the kids really like homeschooling. The boys do however, have their days where they just don't want to focus, as I'm sure they would in public school as well. This week Kaidee & Lucas are learning the 'B' sound. As they do each time they learn a new letter, they had to decorate a big and little 'B' for their bulletin board. This week the lesson called for glueing beans to the letter B. (Last week we glued rice to the letter R). I read the curriculum and realized I wasn't sure if I had dried beans so I asked Lucas and Kaidee to come with me and help me look for some. I was ready to give up and have them color the B's blue instead when Kaidee spotted the beans. The dissapointment on Lucas' face was clear and his comment.....(in his husky, pronounces R's & L's like W's, and extrememly apathetic voice he says), "I don't even like this because all 'they' want us to do is waste food and that's not like God."

The kid cracks me up!!

8 year old Wisdom

2010-11-18T10:59:00.000-08:00

"Mommy, I really miss Nana & Papa, Mimo & Papa and all my Uncles & our church & my friends, but you know what?" "What Malia?" "If we had never moved back to California when I was a baby, then I wouldn't even really know all those people, so maybe God will bring some of them here & then we will make new friends that we would have never made if we hadn't come here." "I bet you're right honey" "Yep Mommy, I think that's what God's gonna do. I just hope he remembers to tell our family that part!" LOVE IT!!!!!!

A New Commitment

2010-11-15T20:40:00.000-08:00

It has been a busy year to say the least!!! I have been very bad at blogging, but given our current situation I have promised some people I'd get on it. For those who are behind on our life here is a very quick update :)

In 2009 God saw fit to add to our family X's 3. We welcomed Dylan (age 6 at the time) Kaidee (age 3 at the time) and Tiffany age (16 at the time). We have spent the time since doing as much as we could together to bond and get to know each other. God is so faithful and today it as though we have all been together all along!

After multiple summer vacations this year, we came home in August to the news that Matt was out of a job. It could have been tragic, but we took it as an opportunity to pray and seek the Lord's guidance. Little did we know He was preparing us for maybe the biggest move of all our lives thus far. He moved us to Texas. Some of you know Matt and I lived here for a short time once before (different area). At that point in our marraige we had no children and were pretty care free. We had Malia in Odessa and quickly decided we wanted to go home to our families, Tehachapi, and NEVER leave again. We have learned, never say never. God often has other plans for us :)

So here we are in Abilene, Tx. A place very different from Tehachapi, but I really like it here. The kids like it, Tiffany is getting used to it and Matt is LOVING his new job here. He is still in the wind industry and is managing one of the largest projects in the country. I am so proud of him :) The company is established and has a great reputation so Lord willing, there will be no incidents like we had this summer.

Such a quick little summary of our life in the last 18 months or so. I will do my very best to be consistently updating as I know there are many of you waiting to hear details of our life here and watch the kids grow in pictures.

Been too long

2010-02-05T13:58:00.001-08:00

One Amazing Journey

2009-11-22T21:15:00.001-08:00

For those of you who don't know we have been on the adoption journey for almost 2 years now. There have been many ups and downs but God led us to these wonderful children that we know HE picked to be ours! On November 20th 2009...National Adoption Day, it was official. Kaidee Anna Allsup & Dylan Joseph Allsup are Allsup's forever!!!! We are so blessed & so thankful. God is GOOD!!!

ps. stay tuned cause Tiffany is next :)

She's Baaaaack!!

2009-10-29T21:20:00.000-07:00

And we couldn't be happier! Welcome home Tiffany!

My Girls

2009-10-06T10:07:00.001-07:00

My friend Jillian and I took my girls to see Disney Princesses on Ice!! We had so much fun...unfortunately the camera died before we got there but I got some cute shots of the girls before we left! My friend Jillian is a hairstylist so she took the girls to her salon before the show and did their hair so beautiful. Then they came home and got all dressed up in their gorgeous white dresses. (A $2.50 find at a yard sale!!! YAH!!!) Malia said she felt like Cinderella & of course Kaidee felt like Belle "cause thats my favorite mommy!"

10 years!

2009-10-03T13:54:00.000-07:00

We celebrated 10 years of marriage last month. My mom came & took a picture of us in the very spot we got married in our beautiful downtown city park. Then she took our kids home with her so we could have some quiet time at home for a night. Poor Mimo, see what they did to her :) They love Mimo's house!!!

My first born lost her first tooth!!!!

2009-07-02T17:26:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th Kaidee

2009-07-02T17:24:00.000-07:00

Front Yard Bath Night

2009-07-02T17:20:00.000-07:00

All you need is a plastic pool, baby wash and willing kids! Won't hurt your lawn and makes for a fun (mom easy) summer bath night!

Matthew 5:39

2009-06-30T13:32:00.000-07:00

But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

Somehow one of my kids got me on to this scripture the other day...it's amazing how many questions they ask and how deep they can get! Anyway, apparently I didn't explain the concept very well because during nap the other day this is what went down.

Dylan: Making annoying sounds and keeping Lucas from his rest (as usual)
Lucas: "Dylan please stop being annoying on purpose"
Dylan: Rahh, Vahh, Rahh, Rahh, Vahhhhh
Lucas: Slightly irritated. "Dylan I said stop it"
Dylan: A little quieter, "Rahh, Vahh, Rahh, Rahh, Vahhhhh"
Lucas: Much more irritated, "Dylan I want to sleep now stop it"
Dylan: Intermittently "Rahh.....Vahh....RRRRAAAHHH...Vah"
Lucas: "Dylan when we get up I'm gonna turn your cheeks and slap them"

I enter the room

Mom: "Lucas, that is not a kind way to speak to someone."
Lucas: Looking very confused but being very adamant, "But mommy you said I could. You even said the bible says when someone is ugly to you to turn the other cheek and slap them."

WOW
If only you could have seen his face.

Wall Raising!!

2009-06-17T16:35:00.001-07:00

Yay....progress. We are adding a living room, a bedroom and a master retreat with plans to make our current living room a large family dining room! CAN'T WAIT for more space!!!

Stormie's Graduation

2009-06-17T16:24:00.000-07:00

We are so proud of Stormie!! She graduated High School in May and is already enrolled in Bakersfield College for the Fall. She's going to major in Deaf studies with a goal of becoming an interpreter. It has been a dream of her's for quite some time and we are so thrilled she is motivated to pursue it.

Teenage girls + Facial Peels = RUN AWAY!!!!!

2009-05-21T08:16:00.000-07:00

Or this is what happens!!!!

What a good sport you are Matt

Hot Korrin and Michaela!! Hot!!!

Family Camp 2009

2009-04-29T11:35:00.000-07:00

Horray for Pismo Beach!!! Boy was it chilly there this weekend but we still had so much fun!!! A little cold wind does not stop the Allsup children from getting right into beach mode...bathingsuits and all!! I was freezing and wearing two sweaters, they were in the WATER!!!

Spring is in Bloom!!!

2009-04-18T09:05:00.000-07:00

Our yard got trashed this winter with all the snow, rain and WIND. Last weekend Matt and Korrin spent all day Saturday weeding and pruning and cleaning up. Yesterday I got to enjoy the fruits of their labor by beginning to plant our spring flowers in an already clean yard :) All the kids pitched in and we had a blast! Many more flowers (and pictures) to come.

New Additions

2009-04-16T20:51:00.001-07:00

Meet Dylan &

Kaidance (Kaidee for short)

They are the newest additions to our family. We are excited beyond words!!! Dylan just turned 6 and is finishing Kindergarten, Kaidee is 3 and will be 4 in May. We have known them for a few months but are so glad things are progressing and they are living with us know. It will take a minimum of 6 months for the adoption to be final and we will certainly keep you posted :)
They seem to be adjusting well and everyone is getting along famously! Lucas and Malia are thrilled to finally have their brother and sister. Please pray for all of the kids as the transition continues. We are so thankful for all of the prayers that have gone up for us throughout this long process. It has been quite a journey! And the journey continues!

Blessed Beyond Words!!!!

2009-04-16T15:08:00.000-07:00

We went from a family of 4 to 5, 3 weeks ago and 5 to 7 yesterday!!!! Praise the Lord!!! Pictures to come soon!

Meet Korrin

2009-04-13T11:36:00.000-07:00

Remember I told you another teenage girl was venturing into our family? Well, meet Korrin. She's 15 years old, a freshman at THS and a volleyball player on several teams. She's been here a little over 2 weeks now and seems to be settling in nicely. The kids are enjoying her and we couldn't be happier with her :) Her best friend Michaela is around so often we feel like she has joined the family as well (so it was fitting to picture them together)!! We hope Korrin decides to stick around but we know that is all in God's hands.

Korrin (left) Michaela (right)

Malia's Birthday!

2009-03-30T11:59:00.001-07:00

We can't believe our baby is 7 YEARS OLD!!!!

A Quick Update

2009-03-27T11:34:00.000-07:00

If you have been keeping up with us you know that Tiffany recently moved. We were so sad to see her go, but glad she is where she really wanted to be. The whole process of Fost-Adopting has been a difficult one, yet we press on. Really I would encourage anyone who is able, to look into it and prayerfully consider it. Even amidst the difficulty and sometimes heartbreak it is a life changing experience and a huge blessing. Matt and I prayed about what to do with the room Tiffany was in (and all the furniture) and we strongly felt God saying to leave it just as it was because there would be another older child to fill it. He sure is faithful...the very next business day we received a call from the agency and now 4 days later we have another teenage girl coming to live with us. (She's moving in tonight) We also MAY be getting close to the arrival of the little ones we have been waiting and praying over for the last year. I say MAY because if you have any experience dealing with the county foster system you know, it ain't over till it's over. So keep checking back and I will post updates as they come. Thanks to all who have been praying for us. We feel your prayers and thank you tremendously. Bless you all.

Spring is coming!!

2009-03-13T15:38:00.000-07:00

We took a gorgeous drive down Caliente Canyon Rd

Stopped at a waterfall...Malia and Lucas climbed as high as they could and watched while
Daddy and Tiffany conquered the rock climb!!

Fun Times!

A sad day!

2009-03-13T15:33:00.000-07:00

Tiffany is moving on. We are happy for her as she is returning to the family that she has always considered her own :) We are also very sad as we love her and will miss her dearly. Hopefully we will be able to keep in contact. Please keep her, and us in your prayers as we go through this adjustment. Thanks to all.

Allsup Activities!

2009-03-12T11:58:00.001-07:00

The kids digging an underground fort in the desert with Papa & Friends!!

Me and my dear friend Erin
Tiffany headed to Battle of the Sexes day at school
Little Man...headed to work with Daddy!

Malia's very first snowman built entirely herself!!!

Local Scenery

2009-03-12T11:46:00.000-07:00

I have collected these photos from many we have taken in the last month! A testament to the dramatically changing weather in our area!!!

This one's for you Kristal!! The drive to Bakes is amazing right now!

No Uncle Chris...Don't go

2009-02-05T16:46:00.000-08:00

We got to have Uncle Chris around for a month at Christmas and New Years and then another week at the end of January. The kids were so bummed when he came to say goodbye. They can't wait till March cause we are supposed to see him again then.

A special treat!!

2009-02-05T16:41:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the Disney Princesses, Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty....and a big sister named Tiffany, Malia and Lucas enjoyed a hot mug of colored hot chocolate! What will Disney come up with next?

Nice day for a picnic

2009-02-05T16:35:00.000-08:00

Not many of those at this time of year!

Being 4 has done amazing things for Lucas!

2009-01-13T11:12:00.000-08:00

The day after Lucas turned 4 he suddenly had the ability to do some things that he has struggled with for quite some time. Like dressing himself completely. He has always been very sure that it was much too difficult for him. Now he is doing it almost daily!!
The biggest improvement in my opinion is the fact that he now washes his own hair! If you ever had the opportunity to witness us washing his hair in the past you know that it was quite an ordeal. Lots of squirming and screaming no matter what method we used. (At one point I even looked online to try to find different methods of washing a child's hair as I had used up every idea anyone I knew had). But 4 must be the magic age because the next day he was in the bath and he said, "Mommy, I have a surprise for you!" This is what I walked in on!!

Yes, I see that he's using his old Lightning McQueen bubbles dispenser to rinse his head...and I don't care!!! No screaming, no tears, no bad mood after his bath!! PRICELESS!

Lucas turns 4!!

2009-01-13T11:03:00.001-08:00

The night before Lucas' birthday he asked me "Mommy, when I wake up in the morning and I'm 4 will I be giant?" So sweet how kids think :)

Lucas and Nana

Of course as we sang Lucas had to dance along :)

Make a wish!

Camping for New Years!!!

2009-01-13T10:50:00.001-08:00

Our fam...all geared up for a ride :)
Some friends we haven't camped with in 10 years came out. It was really fun for Matt especially cause they were all childhood friends!!

Tiffany Riding her motorcycle for the first time!
Lucas taking a riding break!
Malia switched from a quad to a motorcycle during our trip and she was a natural! She did a great job!!

The girls are always hamming it up!

2009-01-13T10:40:00.001-08:00

Where have we been for the last 6 weeks?

2009-01-13T10:24:00.000-08:00

We had such a blessed Thanksgiving Christmas and New Year and hope you all did too. I have lots to share so be patient with my many posts for today :) I'll try to keep them short and sweet!!

We had a simple quiet Christmas at home which was such a blessing!!
Before Christmas we got to spend a little bit of time with Matt's family! It was the first time all of us have been together at the same time since Matt and I got married (and of course I forgot my camera). It was a great time though. We got to see Uncle Chris for a whole month and we got to see Uncle Marc and Rob for just a day (not long enough) but still wonderful.

What's more fun than a pile of dirt?

2008-11-23T20:52:00.000-08:00

We are beginning the process of building a 600 square foot addition on to our house (YAY can't wait... need more space) and our back yard has been gutted, bulldozed, leveled, piled and re-leveled. Right now there is a pile of dirt in one corner that Malia and Lucas affectionately call "Dirt Mountain". 2 days ago they spent the entire day on Dirt Mountain. You can see by the pictures that they never even took off their pj's. They climbed it, drove trucks on it, dug in it like "aw-key-owogists" (Lucas speaking), ate lunch at it's peak and even rolled down it a time or two. Even "Bud" the neighbor's dog wanted in on the action!! It was one of the last days of the year that it will be warm enough to play outside all day so I didn't dare interrupt them (we even skipped school work). Of course they were filthy by the end of the day but it was worth it!

Curiosity Satisfied

2008-11-12T20:02:00.000-08:00

Welcome Tiffany Dee! The newest member of the Allsup Family. She is a bouncing bundle of giggly joy....j/k. This isn't a baby announcement!!! But I would like to introduce Tiffany to all our dear friends and family. She's 16 and a Sophmore at Tehachapi High School. She is a very open and social young lady and like most teenage girls she loooooves to talk on the phone. We all have much to learn about each other but she is a very sweet girl and we hope her stay is long. With our past experiences we know nothing is certain except God's love for us and our future home in eternity with Him. I hope many of you will get the chance to know her and that you'll be blessed as we have been.

For those who are wondering...yes we are still trying to adopt some young children and will continue to try. We know God is working all things together for our good in HIS time :)

My "BIG KID" babies!!

2008-11-06T10:25:00.000-08:00

After a trip to the grocery store we often check the mail. When the idea strikes, Lucas and Malia want to walk home "alone". Our mail box is about half a city block away and this "freedom" makes them feel very BIG and responsible :) So they walk...as I drive slowly alongside pretending to look at mail so I don't make them think I'm watching.

Flash Flood Warning!!!

2008-11-02T15:42:00.001-08:00

It's that time of year again... when we camp as much as possible. The weather has cooled off a little and the desert is calling. Our favorite family activity is to ride quads and dirt bikes together so the desert is the perfect place to go. It's close, wide open and has terrain for all levels of riding experience. Very often several friends and family members join us and this weekend was no different. There was rain in the forecast but we decided to go anyway because we figured even if it rains for a couple of hours we could play cards in the trailer and when it was over the ground would be damp and it wouldn't be dusty while we ride. Perfect!!! Ha ha ha... It rained for about 2 hours Saturday morning and when the rain stopped the kids went right out to jump on their quads. Malia didn't last long because she got a flat tire but she was content to play in the dirt with her friends. Lucas was cruising in circles and doing donuts at the edge of camp and I was in the trailer cleaning up our breakfast mess. Matt was trying to fix Malia's flat outside when I heard a weird sound. I looked out the trailer door and there was a rush of water coming right into camp from the mountains just above us. Within minutes everything outside the trailer was laying in a couple of inches of mucky nasty water :) It was pretty funny we thought. Of course it would be a huge mess to clean up when we got home but for the time being we were amused. Not too long after it started to rain again, hard. We all decided we better pack up and get out of there before we were stuck or worse yet, floating away. The water did get worse and the "flash flood" did get bigger but we were never in real danger, so for the most part it was exciting and fun. Everyone was soaked to the skin when we finally got home and EVERYTHING was covered in mud but it was worth it. Now we have more fun campfire stories for the years to come!

This was what it looked like just outside our trailer door after the first wave of water. There's a 10'x10' carpet under that welcome mat that is completely buried in mud!!

Muck, Muck all around!!

FUN TIMES!!!

A Visit with Stormie

2008-10-30T19:52:00.000-07:00

It has been almost a year since we have seen Stormie. This past weekend we received a phone call from her saying that she was in town and wanted to stop by if we were okay with that. Of course we wanted to see her so we spent an hour or so visiting Saturday afternoon. To our surprise Sunday morning she showed up at church and afterwards we had lunch and spent the afternoon with her. It was an emotional time bringing back our sadness that she is no longer with us but also a blessing to reconnect. The kids really enjoyed seeing her again as well and we were all sad to say goodbye. Hopefully we can all spend time together again before another year passes.

Just for Girly Girls!!!

2008-10-22T14:38:00.000-07:00

Malia won a beautiful handmade tutu made by a sister in Christ, Kristal, who I met through my dear friend Erin. When I say "met" we have never actually seen each other face to face, but we have gotten to know each other a little through our blogs and through Erin. She made the tutu as a sample and hosted a giveaway on her blog. The winner simply had to model the tutu for Kristal's website to show her talent and ability for future sales. Malia won and was so excited!! Kristal is now hosting a giveaway for some adorable personalized 'bag tags' she makes....she's quite talented!!! If you'd like to enter see details here.
If you'd like to purchase a custom handmade tutu similar to the one you see on Malia you can get the details here. You can also purchase the bag tags...both at very excellent prices.

p.s. Bag tags are just as cute for boys as girls! Good Luck!

30...how did that happen???

2008-10-22T11:18:00.000-07:00

This weekend was my 30th birthday! I can't believe it but I'm glad to welcome my 30's. I feel like I am a validated adult now :) All I wanted for my birthday was to go camping with my family and some friends and spend the weekend riding and sitting around a campfire. I got exactly what I wanted!!! We had so much fun we are doing it again in a week and a half!!! My favorite place to be is at the back of the line riding behind my family. I love it so much.
We had several dear friends camping and riding with us as well and I'm so thankful each of them were there. Here are some pictures to show off our weekend.

Roxy is mad at me

2008-10-14T11:34:00.000-07:00

The kids finally managed to "take out" the trash can lid (that was already on it's way to destruction) and instead of dealing with all of it they left this piece on the floor. Roxy found it and it became her new favorite spot!

Silly Dog!!!
She started to protest at the end of the day when I told her it was time to throw it out!!
And when I put her back in her real bed she looked at me like this....
as if to shake her head at me and say, "you just ruined my day!"

Love ya Rox :)

Pondering His Creation!

2008-10-01T10:58:00.000-07:00

What a gorgeous day God made today! The morning was cool and crisp and the afternoon is warm and bright. The sky is a gorgeous clear blue and the puffy white clouds are forming around the mountains with hopes of some afternoon sprinkles. It's hard for me to decide if my favorite time of year is spring when the air is cool, the ground is green and new life is all around or if it's fall when the days grow shorter, we get the occasional thunderstorm (my favorite) and change is on the horizon. I do know one thing...my favorite days of the year are the days in early October when the migratory birds begin their journey south for the winter. We are extremely blessed to live in the direct path of some of these birds. Tens of thousands of birds literally fly right over our home every year! The kids and I sit on the patio and talk about how fun it would be to fly with them even if just for a minute, to experience the feeling of soaring above the beautiful world that God made and see it from a birds eye view (or the way God see's it from heaven Malia says!) Just watching them is incredible! You can hear the wind in their wings as they float above us and occasionally they call out to one another. They'll fly in line 6-10 birds wide and hundreds long and every so often they'll cluster up and fly in the shape of a tornado just swirling overhead. It is an awesome sight! This morning was amazing but I know the next few days will be even better. Lucky for me because my camera had a dead battery this morning and by the time it was charged enough to take just 1 picture the birds were gone. So, Lord willing, I will post some tomorrow, but for today you'll have to use your imagination. Thank you Lord for blessing me with this incredible sight every year!

Update to the Update

2008-09-27T21:32:00.001-07:00

The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away and we will praise him through it all. Destiny and Jessie already had to move on. Everyone keeps saying why, how did that happen, what??? The truth is that sometimes that is just how the system works and it is tough. It's part of the reason many kids get left riding the foster kid wave their whole life. We know this is what God has called us to do yet he keeps bringing kids into our situation that we think will be "the ones" and in the end it doesn't work out. We truly believe it has happened that way for us so that we will fervently pray not just for the kids we have had the privilege to meet but for all the foster children and orphans in our area. There are so many and every one of them deserves a faithful prayer warrior. Thanks to all of you who have prayed for us. We pray you will be blessed in return!

Allsup Update!

2008-09-20T16:41:00.000-07:00

Daddy's home!!! AND...we got our kids!!! All in the same week!!! Pictures have to come later but Destiny is 10 and Jessie is almost 4. We are so excited and as you can imagine very busy!! I will do my best to put specifics up ASAP but we are very busy just getting settled right now! Malia and Lucas are adjusting well to sharing their rooms (and parents) and we are learning to parent 4 at a time. All exciting stuff. Thanks for all your prayers!

9 Years!!!

2008-09-10T11:12:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I will have been married to Matt for 9 years!!! It's hard to believe it has been that long but I also can barely remember my life without him. At the same time I can remember exactly how I felt while I walked down the isle, exactly how I felt the first time we kissed (almost 11 years ago) and exactly how I felt when I realized I was in love with him and that I was going to marry my best friend. Some people may not know this but...we never really dated. We were very close friends and spent lots of time together...even had some classes in college together. Then Matt went to South Carolina for the Army National Guard Reserve training. It was so hard not having him around because we were so close. I remember the day he came back I was so excited to see him. I changed my clothes like 12 times because I wanted to look my very best. The last time I checked my outfit in the mirror I thought to myself, "What is your problem, it's just Matt. He's your best friend. He doesn't care what you wear!" It was then that I realized I was in love with Matt. Of course I wasn't about to tell him that. I was too afraid :) Well the story goes on, someday I'll share the whole story (maybe on our 10th anniversary) but soon after that day we shared our feelings with each other one evening while out cruising the town. (Good old Tehach) We left our houses that evening to hang out with some friends and came back knowing we were in love and that it was God's will that we get married. 10 months later Matt made it official by putting an engagement ring on my finger and we were married the following year. I guess you could say we dated for 10 months before we were "officially" engaged but we already knew it was official in our hearts from the night we first voiced our love for one another so to us, that wasn't dating. All that to say that as I walked down the isle I thought that life couldn't get any better than that and I couldn't love him more than I did at that moment. Well, now I know that even though we have had some very difficult circumstances in our life together...it IS better than that and I love him more today than ever before. I know now that for us as time goes, love grows and I thank God for that gift every day! He has given me the most amazing blessing in my husband who is still today, my very best friend!

I love you babe and I miss you so much. I can't wait to see your face on Saturday!

Just for you Daddy!!

2008-09-03T11:55:00.000-07:00

Daddy has been gone for a couple of weeks (on business) and still has 10 days to go. I thought this might make him smile! Love you Babe...Miss you tons.

The BIG Day!!!

2008-09-03T08:21:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my little man's first day of school! (Pre-K) It was also Malia's first day of 1st grade (how the time flies)! We have been anticipating this day for about a month now and the kids have been so excited. Of course, Lucas didn't fully understand what was going on but he was glad he got to "do school" with his sissy. I was always worried that they might miss out on the excitement of going to school since we are homeschooling, but I can't imagine them being any happier. At 3 1/2 and 6 1/2 they already have plenty of social time and activities so I guess that's why they're fine.
We had a great first day! I asked Lucas what his favorite part was and he said, "the pawt wif da lesson." (I wish I had a recording of his voice to share with you cause the way he talks is hilarious to me. Quickly fading though.) So I guess that means he liked it all. Malia's favorite part is always Math (she definitely has Daddy's brains) and she often gets frustrated at reading time. We are working through it though. All in all I'd call the day a great success!! Here are some pictures to share with you.

Little Dancer Man

2008-08-31T16:37:00.000-07:00

It is not an uncommon sight to see Malia dancing and singing around the Allsup house. She is doing that or talking about 90% of her waking hours :) Lucas is a different story. He does dance (we call it "rockin' out" cause he usually just bobs his head a little) but he will normally stop as soon as a camera comes out. A few days ago I caught this video and thought it was FABULOUS! Especially cause he's dancing to one of Daddy's favorites and Daddy's still gone for 2 more weeks so I know he'll enjoy it.

(just in case you're curious that's a remix of PLUMB's In my Arms)

Dress Up Time

2008-08-26T08:45:00.000-07:00

The Beautiful Princess, her faithful pet and her Night in Shining Armor!

For the Love of Blanka

2008-08-23T12:25:00.001-07:00

Blanka is a very important part of the Allsup Family. That is the name Lucas gave his beloved blanket. It's a handmade rag quilt that our Pastor's wife Elizabeth made for Lucas before he was born. He has loved it since day one and has only slept without it due to stomach flu accidents and potty accidents. Of course on those occasions we would have to wash and dry it immediately so he'd get it back asap. It even has a calming effect on him if he is sad or grouchy. If someone brings it to him and lays it on the floor or couch in front of him he will fall on it and start making the "happy sound". (Impossible to explain unless you have heard it). Well yesterday my brother came over so I could help him set up is new birthday present that he got from my parents. (It was a Zune -kinda like an IPOD. Ridicluosly difficult to figure out) Anyway, Lucas had a grouchy day so Cameron (my bro) went into his room and threw blanka to him and closed the door cause he was having a tantrum. Later on when he got quiet Cameron went to check on him and found him sound asleep on the floor wrapped like cocoon in blanka. He stayed there for about 3 hours. Obviously he needed a good nap!

Baby Bell's

2008-08-23T12:03:00.000-07:00

This year we decided to grow peppers in pots just to see how they would do. They took a very long time to be ready for harvest and the hot pepper plant never grew any fruit. So, naturally when it was time to pick the few we had the kids were very excited and wanted to eat them immediately. We had 2 anehiem chilis and one bell pepper. The smallest I have ever seen! Nevertheless we sliced 'em up and ate them on the spot and the kids really enjoyed it. Next year we'll have to plant them in the ground so we can really get some good ones.

Sweet Roxy!

2008-08-22T21:17:00.000-07:00

Malia is so excited that she taught Roxy this trick all by herself!

FUN TIMES!

Daddy's Gone

2008-08-18T22:17:00.001-07:00

Matt left on his month long business trip yesterday :( We are not at all happy about it and trying to stay busy and keep a busy schedule ahead so the time goes quickly. Before he left he took some pictures to put on his screen saver and he happened to use my camera so I got to see the results. The fact that he took pictures of his truck is hilarious to me (although probably more pathetic than hilarious) but it is sooooo Matt. At least there are pictures of his REAL babies too. :) Here's a sampling!

Love and Miss you Babe!

Brokenhearted

2008-08-12T19:14:00.000-07:00

Have you ever felt betrayed by someone you didn't know that well. Usually I think of betrayal as something that happens because of an act of someone you know and love. After this weeks events I have come to realize that we can feel betrayed by someone we put even the least amount of trust in. I take comfort in the fact that my God works all things together for the good of those who love Him and our family loves Him dearly. That means I know God has an amazing plan despite our broken hearts.

Due to circumstances beyond our control and deceitful actions of others we cannot adopt Ashley & Robert after all. We are deeply saddened for them as they were expecting us to adopt them as much as we were expecting to adopt them. I don't know if they have even been told yet but I am sure they will be confused and heartbroken as well. If you think of them please say a prayer for them and for our kids as well. Lucas took the news well as he is too young to really understand but Malia is very sad.

In the end we know there was a reason for all of this. Even if it were as simple as God providing someone to pray for them each time they are thought of. Every child, every person deserves that and if that was our purpose then it was worth it to us. Thank You Lord for the opportunity and thank you Lord that our children are out there somewhere and you will show us in Your time. Hold us in our brokenness.

Desperate Times Call for Desperate Measures

2008-08-11T13:43:00.000-07:00

Malia & Lucas have been begging me for days to blow up the kiddie pool we bought them about 2 months ago (that's how busy we have been). Well, after all this time we actually miss placed it somewhere in our very messy garage. Daddy cleaned the garage a couple of days ago and today I found the pool. Horray! Right! Wrong... mommy can't figure out how to use daddy' s gigantor air compressor, and I will surely pass out if I try to blow the thing up myself, soooo again they wait. When daddy gets home I'm sure he'll take care of it right away. But for a 6 1/2 year old girl and a 3 1/2 year old boy 4 o'clock can't come fast enough. So after pooling (pardon the pun) their resourcefulness here is what they came up with....

HILARIOUS!!!!!

My Favorite Thing

2008-08-06T14:43:00.000-07:00

There are very few things that make me happier than seeing my kids be sweet to each other. Not just sharing or playing nicely together but a kiss, a hug or an I love you for no reason. This weekend we went to Spirit West Coast with Matt's youth group. It was the second time we went with the kids. We camped in our trailer and did several fun activities. Amidst the many concerts and other entertainment there was the wonderful Veggie Land filled with all things Veggie Tales. Well the kids wore themselves out on the bounce houses, big slides, craft rooms, children's worship sessions, the petting zoo, and photo shoots with Bob & Larry. One evening they fell asleep early and while Matt was off at the night time concerts with all the teens I stayed back at the trailer to read and sit with the kids. I also decided to head to bed early and climbed up to their bed to cover them up (they sleep in a queen bunk together). I immediately teared up when I saw my sweet babies fast asleep and holding hands. Thank you Lord for this moment! For the joy it brought me and the beautiful picture it burned in my memory.

TAGGED

2008-08-05T20:50:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Erin tagged me in her latest blog post. I always enjoy these sorts of things as does she, so here goes...

Two Things:

Two names you go by:
1. Mommy
2. Babe

Two things you are wearing right now:
1. blue americana T-shirt w/rhinestone stars
2. burgundy jammy pants (Hey I just got home and haven't completely changed to jammies yet!)

Two of your favorite things to do:
1. make earrings
2. ride quads w/my hubby and kiddos

Two things you want very badly at the moment:
1. To have Matt's month long business trip be over (we can't go cuz of the adoption) He leaves in a week and a half.
2. To have Matt's month long business trip be over because our new kids move in when he gets home!!

Two favorite pets you have had/have:
1. Cheyenne our dog we had before kids that was like a baby to us.
2. Roxy (technically Malia's dog but I bathe her and house her so I think that counts)

Two things you did yesterday
l. Unpacked and cleaned our trailer (very messy due to Spirit West Coast fun)
2. laundry

Two things you ate today:
1. edamame
2. fried pickles (yum)

Two people you last talked to:
1. My Mom
2. Matt's mom

Two things you plan on doing tomorrow:
1. More laundry
2. get my hair done

Two longest trips taken in the last five years:
1. 9 days at Crooked Meadows
2. same

Two favorite holidays:
1. Christmas
2. 4th of July

Two favorite beverages:
1. Water
2. Tea

Fun times...now I'll tag Shannon!

Indescribeable!!!

2008-07-28T21:14:00.000-07:00

Well.....we met Ashley & Robert....our future children. In our hearts it's already a done deal but unfortunately we have to play by the rules. Due to Matt's upcoming business trip (he has to go to New York for a whole month) we may not get the kids until mid September. Seeing them, playing with them, holding them, only confirmed even more how right this all is. It was soooooooo hard to leave. I'm sure they are confused but we are praying God's protection on their little hearts and minds during this transition. Lucas and Malia totally hit it off with them right away, which only made everything more perfect. We are so blessed. Thank you Lord! My heart is so full.

Prayer Request

2008-07-23T14:26:00.000-07:00

Once again I covet your prayers!!! We meet Ashley & Robert Monday, July 28th at 2:30 pm for the very first time! We are very excited...to say the least. We have been told that their reaction to us determines the speed of their placement with us. So after Monday we might know a little bit more regarding time lines. Early Wednesday morning we leave again for a vacation, only this time we are taking about 40 teenagers (plus a few adult volunteers) to Spirit West Coast Monterey for a 4 day Christian Concert Festival. (It's an amazing experience) Anyway, all that to say I may not have time to post until our return but if I have anything exciting or significant to report I'll do my best to post before our departure.

I Love my friends and family dearly,
Sarah

Ashley & Robert

2008-07-09T19:48:00.000-07:00

God has given us peace to go forward with the adoption of a 7 year old girl and a 5 year old boy. If all goes smoothly we will meet them in a little less than 2 weeks and they will move in early August. I will update as the process moves along. We are sooooo excited. We leave for our annual vacation to camp in BEAUTIFUL Crooked Meadows on Saturday and as soon as we return things should progress quickly. Please pray for our family, and for Ashley and Robert as this miracle comes to pass. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts! God is GOOD and we are BLESSED.

We'll See!!!

2008-07-02T12:07:00.000-07:00

We have been matched!!! That is, our adoption worker has found a sibling set that she feels would fit with our family. They are older than we were originally looking for, but we feel that God is leading us in this direction for a reason. The girl is 8 in Sept and the boy is 5 1/2. We have what they call a "Full Disclosure" meeting on Tuesday the 8th. They will give us all the info regarding their history and their current situation then we have 48 hrs to decide. If we decide to move forward we will set up a time to meet them and after the initial meeting there will be a decision as to when they can come and live with us forever. We aren't sure yet whether we have a say in that decision or not. Please pray for us. Pray for God's will and that we will be sensitive to His Spirit and not our emotions. We are very excited but we do not want to make any decisions lightly. The children are currently living in a foster home (have been for 2 1/2 years) and there are no other children or a man (father figure) present so this will be a huge adjustment for them if we do get to adopt them. Praise God that He already has all of that worked out! Whether we get to adopt them or another family is lucky enough to get them our prayer is that his will is done and they will find their forever family! Thanks for your prayers.

Opposites

2008-06-30T15:21:00.000-07:00

My kids are soooo different...and I LOVE IT! We went to gorgeous San Diego this weekend to attend a family wedding. It was a beautiful outdoor reception on the harbor and we got to see most of Matt's family (minus big brother Marc, we miss you Marc). Well it was a hawaiian themed wedding and the kids were dressed up cute so I was trying to get some good pictures to replace the 2 1/2 year old head shots on the wall. Now understand Lucas DESPISES getting his picture taken. If he's in the mood I MIGHT get a decent shot but typically he's not and when I ask him to pose or smile this is what I get!!!

(These are actual faces he makes on purpose knowing it's the opposite of what I want!! It is hilarious to me and a big reason why I no longer pay photographers!!)

Of course Malia is a HAM and LOVES the camera! This was the first shot of her!I took this picture and then turned around to talk to some friends. They looked over my shoulder chuckling and I turned around to find this...

"Mommy take a picture!"
LOL!!!
And then, just my luck...Lucas followed suit!

Thank you Lord for my super funny kids!!!

A Tribute to Grandmom & other Amazing Women of God

2008-06-20T08:01:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow is my Grandmom's memorial service. She was an amazing woman! In fact she is a big part of who I am today in more than just genetics...She found the Lord as an adult woman having already raised her 10 kids. I remember her telling me about it as a young teen but I was too busy with my own agenda to hear the truth. She lived far away and I rarely got to spend time with her, but when I did it was always special. As a 16 year old, my junior year, I met a dear friend named Monica who repeatedly invited me to church (until I finally went) and a couple of Sunday's later I received/accepted the gift of Salvation that Christ so freely gives to those who believe in his sacrifice. Several months, maybe even a year later, when I had the opportunity to share this with my Grandmom she asked me when I was saved. A look of curiosity and wonder came over her face as she left the room. She returned with a prayer journal and turned to a page somewhere near the middle. She read it to herself and then in choked up silence handed it to me and pointed where she wanted me to read. It was dated for the weekend I was born again and my name was at the top of her prayer list. Out of 10 kids plus spouses, and 20 + grandkids (at the time) God had put me on her heart very strongly that week. Now don't get me wrong, all of her kids and grandkids are scattered all through her prayer journals but that was God creating an eternal bond between her and I that is a blessing to this day. I didn't see her again until just a couple of months before I married Matt (almost 9 years ago) and then I didn't see her until we moved back to California after a short time in Texas (nearly 6 years ago). Soon after that she was diagnosed with Alzheimers and the family felt it best that she move in with one of her kids. My parents took her in and she lived there until God took her home. It was such a blessing having her around for the last few years. Even after she lost her memory and most of her skills the sound of Jesus' name and the laughter of a child still got her attention and would often cause the faintest smile. Praise God.
Her passing has caused me to think a lot about my life...all the wonderful ladies who made a difference in it and the impression I hope to leave behind when I am here and gone! I thought it only fitting to make a note of key women who have impacted me forever. You may read on if you like but please know this is for me...to always remember in my heart those women who I've been so blessed by.

Mom-For giving me a foundation of God's love.

Monica-For being the first Christian friend I had. And for your example then and TODAY.

Jany-For being the first person to show me what truly loving a friend in Christ was all about.

Misty-For being my first example of what a Godly wife should be.

Grandmom-For praying for me

Linda-For showing me what truly wise living and purity of heart is all about.

Erin-For letting me see how deeply you love God (even through unimaginable pain) and for inspiring me to do the same.

Doniece-For showing me the love and practicality behind the older women teaching the younger concept. (I still have my Apples of Gold folder & still use the recipes!)

Sonia-For showing me what servanthood is all about.

Deb-For being so open to transparent living and showing me that it's not only okay, but GOOD and freeing in Christ.

Christina-For always having insight that makes me want to be a better person.

Ami-For learning alongside me how important accountability is.

Shannon-For being such an incredible example of obedience and faith.

Cathy-For her faith and openness to God's will.

Malia-For reminding me what childlike faith and joy of salvation is all about.

Thank you for allowing Christ to shine through you!

Meet the Allsup Canines

2008-06-11T13:17:00.000-07:00

This is Lucy!

OOOO she's soooo cute. She's been in our family for about a year and a half now. She's a sweet girl who is very attached to me. She is very loyal to me however she does love Malia too. Of course Malia adores her. Since she was a puppy Malia would carry her around on her back in her arms and rock her like an infant. She would rock her in her doll cradle and yes that IS a porta-crib she is sitting in. Spoiled I know!!! Earlier this year we decided to breed her. She is a champion lined, pure bred Maltese so her puppies are worth some money. We are adding on to our house right now and decided that was a good way to make some extra cash. So she had puppies and they were adorable. It was quite an experience for us to raise tiny babies. We just loved them to death...
Tell me they aren't precious. Well, once they got active and REALLY busy we knew it was time for them to go so we started selling them at about 9 weeks old. Malia had a very favorite and when he sold, her world crumbled. I knew she would be sad but I never expected what happened. She bawled and sobbed the saddest tears I have ever heard, for hours. She was so crushed. That very day I decided she was ready for her own puppy. One that would stay tiny forever so that if we ever bred Lucy again she would have her own dog that was her precious baby even when the puppies sold. That is how Roxy came into our lives. And let me tell you, Malia is the best little mommy ever. She pampers this dog like crazy. She is the tiniest thing you have ever seen ( 5 months old and barely 2.5 lbs.) and so much fun!! She is fast becoming one of my favorite dogs of all time (RIP Cheyenne, you'll always be #1). She also has her own porta-crib that she sleeps in in Malia's room and her own pink toy box full of cute doggie things, her favorite being a squeaky purse (I know, pathetic)! Of course to Malia it's perfect cause purses are her favorite thing as well. Of course Malia still loves Lucy too. But Roxy is her very own and to her that is special!

P.s. That is the console in my van she is sleeping on. That's how teeny she is!

Los Angeles Zoo!!

2008-06-01T21:35:00.000-07:00

LA Zoo is nothing compared to San Diego Zoo but it's much closer (obviously) and Malia's homeschool group was sponsoring a trip there. The kids didn't even notice the difference...Animals are animals to them. The best part was we got to bring some friends along. It was a very odd day weather wise, cold and rainy in May. Honestly I would rather it be that way though than hot and sticky. We had lots of fun! You can check out some of our pics if you'd like. I think the giraffes were the biggest hit...one of them actually posed for pictures. Pretty neat! Enjoy!

My little photographer!!

2008-05-31T20:30:00.000-07:00

Malia has now discovered that she not only loves to be in front of the camera.....but also behind it. Here are her favorite photos.

Daddy playing his guitar...

Mommy n Lucas...

And of course, herself...

Pretty good for a 6 year old!

Family Camp

2008-05-28T14:21:00.000-07:00

We spent last weekend camping with some dear friends from church at Bonelli Park on Puddingstone Lake in San Dimas, CA. It was a church organized event so many of Malia and Lucas' friends were there. On Saturday afternoon the very innovative Art Gaeta came up with the idea to "make" a pool for the kids to play in at our campsite. He used a pre-existing hole and a tarp. Very interesting! As luck would have it, one of our fellow camping friends had a slip n' slide in their RV. See the pictures for the very ghetto, yet very inventive results. The kids had a blast...so did the men!!!

We also went fishing for a little bit...how cute is this?

Just Maybe???

2008-05-21T09:35:00.000-07:00

Our adoption profile/homestudy is being viewed at a "matching fair" today. Just maybe, the children God has for us will be represented there as well. Your prayers are appreciated! God's will be done.

Amazing Love

2008-05-06T07:45:00.001-07:00

This is why God loves adoption! Just think, we are His adopted sons and daughters (see Galatians 4 and Ephesians 1) so I'm certain He is overjoyed when one of His precious little ones who has no earthly family, falls in to the arms of the ones they were truly born to be with. I am so blessed by my dear friends Shannon and Jason who, in obedience to the Lord, are bringing this beautiful young girl home to be theirs along with their other two precious children. Shannon isn't home yet but she will be soon and I can't imagine the joy that will be in their family's reunion! Hopefully these pictures will bless you as they did me. Welcome Shyloh!!!

A big reason for blogging!

2008-05-05T20:52:00.000-07:00

It's not fair for the rest of the country to miss out on this. If you don't live here you don't get to see it for yourself. Pictures really don't do justice, but at least it's something. Check out our day in the fields just miles from home.

Of course Malia had to pose...

While Lucas couldn't tear himself away from bug hunting long enough to look at the camera...
Daddy explained to Lucas that watching for snakes was important, and it's a good thing because..

Just minutes later we encountered this 3 foot long Western Diamondback Rattle Snake!!!Exciting, beautiful day!!

Marriage Talk Already!!

2008-05-01T19:01:00.000-07:00

Well this morning, Lucas declared that he loved Malia and that he was going to marry her when he was a "DULT" !! I told him how sweet that was but that people don't marry their brothers or sisters because that is not the way God designed marriage. I explained how Matt and I met and married and how others meet and marry. He was crushed. "I just want to marry Malia," he cried. He is very broken up.

2008-04-22T11:14:00.000-07:00

HORRAY for Monday! That's our date...then we wait! Lots to do between now and then! Keep us in your prayers. We'd appreciate it so much!

Almost There!!!

2008-04-17T08:56:00.000-07:00

Well for those of you who don't know we have been going through the certification process for fost/adoption for the last 6 months. We are hoping to adopt two small children, preferably siblings under the age of 5. After what seems like a very long wait (I know in International Adoptions 6 months is nothing) we have finally received the approval to go forward. We still have to update our homestudy that was done when we tried to adopt Stormie but we were told that should only take one meeting. Once that meeting occurs then we just WAIT. Wait for the phone call that there are children who fit our profile. It's interesting because through the fost/adopt program you get a call and you have to decide pretty much immediately if you want to accept the kids they are calling about (sometimes on the spot). If you decide yes, then you pick them up or they bring them to you within a couple of hours. So I guess it's just a matter of time before we double our children!!! We are so excited though and just praying that God prepare our hearts and the hearts of the new kids as well as Malia and Lucas. M & L are so excited too. The room has been set up for the "New Kids", as M & L call them, for about 3 1/2 months now and 3 months is forever to a little kid! Malia understands a little bit better but Lucas actually said the other day "I think my new brother is pretend." It will be quite an experience when we all get together!

Hide and seek with Malia and Lucas

2008-04-15T10:18:00.000-07:00

1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10
Ready or not here I come!

How did they both get in there???

The Many Moods of Lucas

2008-04-15T10:04:00.000-07:00

My little man is the most moody boy I have ever met! We try to keep things lighthearted when he is grouchy by snapping photos or tickling or something...

This day he wasn't having it so I gave him a spray bottle and told him he could squirt me in the face.
That did the trick!!!! He was very satisfied!And I thought girls were the moody ones!!!

I've succumbed

2008-04-13T22:05:00.000-07:00

It has taken me so long to get to the point where I would just DO THIS that I hope I will keep it up. For all of our friends and family who live far away, this is a great way to keep up with us. We have some dear friends, the Gerlts, who we haven't seen in years yet it feels like we are with them cause we get to read up on their lives regularly! Good stuff! I have made much fun of those in my life who spend wayyyyy too much time on My Space but this I feel is just for those who already know us so I don't have to create some sort of personality so others will like me and want to be my "FRIEND" :) Hopefully you won't take offense if you are a my spacer....just my opinion! Anyway, hope you enjoy. I will post very soon but I must pay bills (FUN) and go to bed! In the meantime please enjoy some recent pics of our kiddos. (Malia just turned 6 and Lucas is 3...time flies)