a good family read

With the start of the new year BJ has been reading to our family the book, "Created for Work" by Bob Shultz.  Three or so times a week after dinner he will read a chapter and ask a few questions.  I would highly recommend this book for families with boys.  The back cover sums up the contents well...

"Modern culture seems addicted to ease and entertainment. 

It has produced a generation of educated yet often dishonest, unproductive, and weak-willed men.  God desires higher standards for His people.  He is looking for young men who do not shy away from hard work, who are not afraid to get their hands dirty, who can follow directions, think creatively, respect authority, and happily complete their duties in a timely manner.  These are the ones He is training up to be future fathers, teachers, and Leaders. Created for Work inspires young men and offers the tools and encouragement they need to embrace God's ways and always give an honest day's work." 

It is written in a way that is very interesting and engaging for boys of all ages....even the younger ones.  We highly recommend it!

STRATEGO

The bigger boys have discovered the fun of daddy's favorite childhood game, Stratego.  Jesse insists on teaching me the game, but I never feel like I have any brain power left to learn something new.  :) I am sure that time will come again, but for now I am truly enjoying watching my boys play together.

no fun

This is the reminder notice my sweet hubby printed stating our challenge of no sweets for the month of January.  Can we do this?  We will see. We didn't outlaw sugar, just yummy desserts, candies, icecream, and soda.  Our exceptions include hot cocoa (mostly for mommy's sanity) and any desserts eaten as guests in someone's home or event.  So, anyone want to have the nine of us over for dinner? :)

By the way, I sort of cheated tonight with our "muffins."  A long time ago my mother-in-law gave me this amazing recipe that she served us as muffins with dinner.  They are called peanut butter and applesauce cupcakes, but since we have always eaten them as muffins with our dinner, I am sticking to it.  BJ smiled and called me a cheater when I got out the chocolate chip bag.  Did I mention they have chocolate chips in them?  :)

Happy New Year!

I survived!  My twins are 18 months old, a new year is here, and I am still alive!  Praise God for his grace and mercy.  There were times when I felt so overwhelmed this past year.  My days were full with no room for any "extras."  Most mothers of multiples said it would be this way for the first 3 years, but a couple of months ago I realized how much easier and more manageable things had become.  I was even fitting in a few extras and venturing out with all seven in tow.  If I were giving advice to a mother expecting twins I would tell her to plan on being home and doing only the necessary tasks for the first year.  By 18 months she will be surprised at how much easier her load is and what a good workout her walking twins will give her. I would also say that the first year will go by faster than she could have ever imagined, but she will have two wonderful little blessings so worth the work and sacrifice. :)

Happy New Year from the Kuykendalls....wishing you God's love in 2013!

"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." Matthew 6:33

2012 Family Pictures

Back in September we had pictures taken with my side of the family.  These were especially important to me because of my mom't health uncertainties.  Anytime we are all together we have a great time....even during 2 hour long photo shoots. 

Jared Matthew, age 11

Jesse Michael, age 9 (but turned 10 just recently :)

Justin David, turned 7 shortly after these pictures

John Russel, 5 years

Judson Lee, turned 3 shortly after

Joshua Courage, 14 months in September

Josiah Christian, same as Joshua :)

I love this picture. :)

Family pictures can be a lot of work but well worth the effort. 

Christmas Day 2012

The boys woke up way too early Christmas morning.  I know they were excited for their stockings, but we might need to make a rule for next year! 

After breakfast we headed to my in-laws in Gresham.

Here's a few pictures of the boys opening presents from Grandma and Papa....

We are so appreciative of the yummy meal and thoughtful presents from my in-laws.  Sally is really good at making holidays special.  It is hard to believe another Christmas is behind us, but at the rate time flies, next Christmas is just around the corner. :)