things...

I just got back from a free mini-facial…yes, I said FREE! Our friends John & Laurie just bought out a salon/spa and today was their grand opening event. I went by to check it out and was treated to a free 15 minute facial. It was wonderful…the only bummer thing is that I had to re-wash and style my hair again cause it got all greasy. But it was worth it!

Yesterday I had my 14 week appointment with the OB…got to hear Baby’s heartbeat and everything looks good! I lost another pound (that’s down 8 lbs now since getting prego!) and the midwife made sure to tell me to not forget to eat. I assured her that I have NO problem remembering to eat…in fact I am surprised I haven’t gained yet!

Sorry this is so short…I need to finish getting ready and then I’m off to rehearse for 3F. I’m singing tonight and tomorrow night which is fun but busy.

Have a great weekend!

Check this out!!!

I was forwarded this as an email...I RARELY read forwards but decided to anyways this time. This is a must watch...beware...I cried. =)

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9oxTy7KIAaA]

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5 Responses to “Check this out!!!”

1. Kristal, thanks for sharing this in this way! I’m so happy that he got a standing ovation, when I’m sure there were other thoughts before he began to sing. It’s sad that we pre-judge people based on appearance. Unlike God, who looks at us and says we are precious.

   Mom said this on September 28, 2007 at 1:59 pm | Reply (edit)

2. What a great singer! Paul Potts actually became the winner of that whole season of “Britain’s Got Talent” (I think it was last year). If you search his name in youtube you can see other clips of him, including where he won!

   PS: I enjoy your blog! Elsie (Marilyn’s mom/ friend of the Pletts)

   Elsie said this on September 28, 2007 at 2:47 pm | Reply (edit)

3. WOWZERS! Makes me want to watch a little more opera!

   Larissa said this on September 28, 2007 at 11:55 pm | Reply (edit)

4. I cried too!

   Joanne M said this on September 29, 2007 at 2:06 pm | Reply (edit)

5. Wow, that’s pretty amazing!

   Kristen said this on October 1, 2007 at 8:54 am | Reply (edit)

Comments, Colds, Craigslist, and Cute Girls...

I wanted to thank you ALL for your encouraging comments that were left after my last post. I really felt encouraged! It is so awesome to know that there are people reading this blog that truly care about us and pray for us…how awesome is that? Thank you…

All three of us have been dealing with a sinus cold and sore throat. It’s been pretty miserable. Sunday night I felt terrible and had an awful night sleep because I couldn’t breathe and my throat hurt just to swallow. Monday morning I literally couldn’t think straight my head hurt so bad. Shaun was also sick like me so he stayed home and we were able to tag-team taking care of Natalie. We both went to the doctor because strep has been going around and I was concerned we had it…but we didn’t which I am very relieved about. I spent the rest of the day napping and laying around on the couch. Tuesday I woke up feeling MUCH better and Shaun is also back to work. Natalie’s also had a runny nose but I’m not sure if her throat is sore but she has been extra fussy and cuddly. It could be teething though…I can’t wait until she can tell me what is wrong!

This past weekend we had a successful Craigslist weekend! We sold both our mini-van and our old queen bed! Now we are down to one vehicle but we were happy to get the van out of our hands and actually make a bit of cash off of it since it could break down any day now! We’re making do with one vehicle and we have wonderful friends who have helped us out with rides and lending us a vehicle if we need it, etc. We hope to sell our old Suburban as well (which is still in Cali) and once that sells we’ll combine the money and get something more reliable and good on gas. As far as our bed goes…we ended up getting a brand new king bed and mattress a week or so ago! We bought it over Labor Day weekend when they had an incredible sale and we are SO excited to have a new COMFY bed!!!

(This picture is from a few weeks ago but since our camera doesn’t have a memory card right now it’ll have to do!)

Natalie has been so cute lately…she’s really growing up. I’ve been reading her a ton more books (she brings them to me one after another) and I have noticed that she is saying a lot more words. She is trying to copy what we’re saying which is so cute. She really is understanding the books too…her favorite is “Goodnight Gorilla” and she giggles in all the right parts. I love that she can understand it.

The other morning I had on TLC’s “Bringing Home Baby” and Natalie saw the baby on the screen and pointed and said “Baby! Baby!”…then she ran up to me and pointed to my belly and said “Baby!” She gets it!!! Pretty cute.

Well she’s finally napping now and I’m going to lay down before I teach piano this afternoon. Have a good day!

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2 Responses to “Comments, Colds, Craigslist, and Cute Girls…”

1. I’m pretty sure that Natalie is the cutest girl I’ve ever seen!

   Corinne Bargen said this on September 26, 2007 at 2:36 pm | Reply (edit)

2. how cute!! Brianna blows raspberries on my belly but that is about it. Ellie watched baby story a while back and was a little damaged.

   shannon said this on September 27, 2007 at 4:32 pm | Reply (edit)

God is good...

This week has busy but I’m not sure why! I guess I’ve just been keeping myself busy with housework, Natalie, piano, etc.

I was seriously stressing about money again this week. I’m not sure why this is such a weakness for me…we are in a much better financial state then we were a year or two ago, but still I worry about Shaun being in ministry and constantly worrying every month about how to just make ends meet. I often choose to doubt that the Lord will really take care of us although He hasn’t let us down yet!

I’ve been praying for more piano students and this week and yesterday I got 2 more and another maybe (I’ll find out in a couple weeks once she gets her cast off her broken arm!). HUGE answer to prayer…I am contemplating taking on maybe 4-5 more students which would mean adding another afternoon a week, which isn’t a big deal at all, it would just mean finding someone else to come over to watch Natalie during the afternoon. This would mean I’d have 3 afternoons of teaching. It would definitely help out financially…please pray that the Lord will arrange all the details.

I am really enjoying teaching piano although I’ve been worrying about if I’m actually doing a good job…it’s hard to know cause kids don’t really give you feedback. Yesterday I emailed all the parents of my students to let them know about the pregnancy and how it may affect a week or so of teaching in the spring. One of the mom’s (I teach 2 of her sons) emailed me back with a really encouraging email saying that I was doing an awesome job and I was probably the best teacher they ever had. Wow…I was really really encouraged…praise the Lord that He’s allowing me to use my gifts and also be able to follow my dream by being home with my girl.

I’m in a cleaning/nesting frenzy today…I guess it’s good but I can’t let the vacuum go on now cause Nat’s sleeping. Maybe that means Mommy needs a rest time too. =)

Have a good day.

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7 Responses to “God is good…”

1. “Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus . ..” Your post puts a song in my heart. Music is such a blessed gift to use and to share . .blessings on you as you do both.

   Lovella said this on September 20, 2007 at 3:06 pm | Reply (edit)

2. Thanks, Kristal, for letting us take a peak through the window of your life. I love to hear the details of my sister’s life … wish I could see them! Yes, teaching children music is sometimes difficult. Do you remember how much you “loved” taking violin lessons?! God is so good … He always gives us what we need and so much more … I have seen this over and over and over again. Keep making music … and passing it on to the next generation. Give Nati a big hug from us.

   Jules said this on September 20, 2007 at 5:13 pm | Reply (edit)

3. Hey, I just realized that Julene and I both checked your blog at the same time from opposite ends of the globe. Kinda neat! I am very sure that you are a great teacher and am so glad that you can use this gift.

   Mom said this on September 20, 2007 at 5:19 pm | Reply (edit)

4. Hi, Kristal, You don’t know me, but I’ve a regular, friendly “stalker” of your blog for more than a year now. (I’m the mom of Jake, whose wife is Beka, whose twin sister is Alison. I link to your blog from Alison’s blog.) I’ve rejoiced with you in the birth of your sweet Natalie, and prayed for you during your recent trip to see your sister. After reading your last post, I felt led to introduce myself, and to encourage you with something I read just this last Sunday. Our pastor was preaching from Proverbs, and I was a bit distracted (oops!), and was reading some other Proverbs (aren’t they fun?), and I was struck by the following verses from Proverbs 30:8-9, in The Message: “Give me enough food to live on, neither too much nor too little. If I’m too full, I might get independent, saying, ‘God? Who needs him?’ If I’m poor, I might steal and dishonor the name of my God.” As someone who has also struggled with stresses over money from time to time, I thought perhaps the Lord was prompting me to share that passage with you. The Lord will always provide exactly what we need. I saw a bumper sticker the other day that said, “Enough Is A Feast.” I really like that! I do rejoice with you in your pregnancy, Kristal, and pray that peace and contentment will reign in your heart. Perhaps one day we will have opportunity to meet, but for now, know that a mother of five in Oregon is praying for you and your dear family.

   Jo Dorr said this on September 20, 2007 at 8:26 pm | Reply (edit)

5. As someone who has been in fulltime ministry for 32 years I can honestly tell you that the Lord has always met all of our needs! Not all of our wants, but then He never promised that either! Rest in the knowledge that God loves you and your family and will always be faithful to provide! There is a sweet joy in knowing that you are right in the central of God’s perfect plan for you and Sean and your babies!

   On a totally different note, it was fun to meet Jan James from your church here in Grand Rapids at a conference last week! It really is a very small world!

   Doris said this on September 24, 2007 at 3:20 am | Reply (edit)

6. God is good and I just love to see how much he has worked and is working in your life. You are too hard on yourself though and I’m sure you are doing (and as the mom told you) a wonderful job teaching. You have so many talents and such a way with kids. I sure miss you!

   Julie said this on September 25, 2007 at 10:25 am | Reply (edit)

7. Hey Kris!!
   I left you a comment yesterday, but the computer was freezing so I guess it didn’t work. Just wanted to let you knwo that I am praying for you and i totally understand what it is like to not have a lot of money and to live day by day in faith. But, God will provide, he is always on time and never late. When I was at APU and didn’t know how I would pay rent or pay the bills, I really sensed God saying, “Adrienne you have everything that you need for today. You have a roof over your head and food to eat. I will provide for your tomorrow.” And God always does, it never looks the way I want it to or comes how I expect!!!! But, as you learn to trust him for everything including your daily bread he will continue to weave a legacy of faith in your life. I know that it is hard, but don’t lose heart because we serve a God of the impossible and he will always meet your needs! I love you so much and know that I will be praying for you! Have an awesome week and enjoy your teaching -God has give you a gift with music and to teach, let him do it through you! You are amazing!
   Miss you!~

   Adrienne said this on September 25, 2007 at 1:17 pm | Reply (edit)

Baby Sawyer #2 - 12 Weeks

Here we go again! Thanks for joining us on this journey.

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13 Responses to “Baby Sawyer#2 – 12 Weeks”

1. You don’t know me but I have enjoyed reading stories about your beautiful family! It is going to be so much fun to watch another little Sawyer join the bunch! Thanks for letting us be a part of your journey!

   Lindsay said this on September 14, 2007 at 3:45 pm | Reply (edit)

2. http://www.thebellyhugger.com I dont know if these were around last pregnancy but someone told me to get one and I *love* it. It helps keep saggy maternity jeans up and lets you wear normal shirts without skin or band showing. (plus they have some on clearance!)

   You look great by the way!

   shannon said this on September 14, 2007 at 5:11 pm | Reply (edit)

3. You are breath-takingly beautiful. I truly hope you realize that.

   runningwildly said this on September 14, 2007 at 7:52 pm | Reply (edit)

4. BEAUTIFUL!!!!

   Corinne Bargen said this on September 14, 2007 at 8:55 pm | Reply (edit)

5. Hi Kristal,
   I’m missing the other blog links on the sidebar. Yes, I’m realy missing them. =( And please don’t tell me to get my own blog. =)
   Wish we could be at 3F tonite. Love you.

   Mom said this on September 15, 2007 at 5:14 pm | Reply (edit)

6. Kris, you are beautiful! Missing you tonight. Love you

   Kirsten said this on September 15, 2007 at 7:45 pm | Reply (edit)

7. You look amazing, Kristal!!!

   kelly said this on September 15, 2007 at 8:01 pm | Reply (edit)

8. Kris… you look FABULOUS!! what a HOT mama!!!

   Andrea said this on September 15, 2007 at 9:07 pm | Reply (edit)

9. Kris, you look amazing.

   Alison said this on September 15, 2007 at 9:27 pm | Reply (edit)

10. Looking beautiful as ever!!

    Vanessa said this on September 16, 2007 at 10:58 am | Reply (edit)

11. Congratulation! I am excited for you as you start out on this adventure again.

    Jody said this on September 17, 2007 at 11:16 am | Reply (edit)

12. Thanks for being such a good sport and allowing us a peek into the journey of #2. You would just fantastic.

    Lovella said this on September 17, 2007 at 5:07 pm | Reply (edit)

13. You are looking great Kristal! Congrats!

    Doris said this on September 24, 2007 at 3:16 am | Reply (edit)

Clinging to the Cross

My soul is weak
My heart is numb
I cannot see
But still my hope is found in You
I’ll hold on tightly
You will never let me go
For Jesus, You will never fail
Jesus, You will never fail

Simply to the cross I cling
Letting go of all earthly things
Clinging to the cross
Mercy’s found a way for me
Hope is here as I am free
Jesus, You are all I need
Clinging to the cross

Even darkness is as light
To you, my Lord
So light the way
And lead me home
To that place
Where every tear is wiped away
For Jesus, You will never fail
Jesus, You will never fail

Simply to the cross I cling
Letting go of all earthly things
Clinging to the cross
Mercy’s found a way for me
Hope is here as I am free
Jesus, You are all I need
Clinging to the cross

What a Savior
What a story
You were crucified
But now You are alive!
So amazing
Such a mystery
You were crucified
But now You are alive!

–Tim Hughes

We’re doing this song this weekend at 3F (Third Format) and the words are amazing. Lately I have been struggling with all the things I think we “need”…our sideyard completed, new curtains, finish painting, new light fixtures, a new vehicle, clothes that fit my growing belly…the list goes on and on. But I don’t really “need” these things I just want them. We have SO much to be thankful for…and Jesus is ALL we need.

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One Response to “Clinging to the Cross”

1. These words hold so much truth. Clinging to the cross with you. Congrats on baby #2.

   Rosanna said this on September 14, 2007 at 11:13 am | Reply (edit)

Trip to California!

We had an AWESOME weekend in California…of course it was a quick trip but we are so glad we went out!

We were able to catch up with a bunch of old friends. Friday for lunch we went out to Final Score (Shaun’s fave sandwich shop in Valencia) with Nate, Debra, & Annabelle. It was our first time meeting Miss Annabelle and she is just TOO cute! We also found out some exciting news…they are expecting their second baby too and due only one month after us! Now…if only we lived closer together. =(

On Saturday we went down to Disneyland for the day…

My dear friend Christy (my college friend & old room-mate) drove up to see us from San Diego. It was so great to see her!

For lunch we met up with Rachyl & Kristin in Downtown Disney…I hadn’t seen these girls in over a year! It was so great to catch up!

Shaun’s grandparents also met up with us at Disneyland. We hadn’t seen them since Thanksgiving and they were thrilled to be able to spend some time with Natalie!

Saturday night our friends Mike, Renelle, & Cole met up with us at Disneyland. It was SO much fun!

If you’d like to see more pics from our trip click on the album below…

Trip to Cali

This week has been good so far…I am really feeling much much better. I haven’t really felt nauseous although I get hungry SO quickly which means I am eating small amounts throughout the day. My knees have recently started hurting a lot so I’m making sure to take my calcium supplements every day too.

Natalie has been teething…her bottom left molar is coming in so she’s been feverish and fussy, and not wanting to eat. Now she has 11 teeth!

Shaun & I are trying to plan a getaway for our 5th anniversary this year. I REALLY want to go back to Hawaii but it just doesn’t seem realistic…hopefully we can find a good deal somewhere.

That’s all for now…I am still in my pj’s and need to shower here and get going. Have a great day!

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8 Responses to “Trip to California!”

1. I’ve been checking and it’s so good to see pictures! Glad you had a good weekend! Poor Natalie, just so serious! I wonder what she’s thinking? What little girl has travelled as much as she has? Kristal, I’m glad you’re feeling better and I have to say you look great!

   Mom said this on September 12, 2007 at 11:55 am | Reply (edit)

2. Hey Kristal, I was poking around and came across your blog. Maybe you remember me from high school Feel free to check out my blog if you’d like. You look really great! And congrats on baby #2! Hope you don’t mind me keeping up with you and your family.

   Kristen said this on September 12, 2007 at 3:50 pm | Reply (edit)

3. Great pictures!! looks like you had a great trip!!!

   Andrea said this on September 12, 2007 at 4:15 pm | Reply (edit)

4. Thsnks for the update. It’s fun seeing pictures of familiar places too. I didn’t recognize many of the Disneyland rides…I guess because I’ve never been with a child before.

   Megan said this on September 12, 2007 at 4:48 pm | Reply (edit)

5. Looks like so much fun. You guys do a lot of cool things as a family and fun travel. Little jelous!

   Hope Natalies teeth come in without much more protest.

   shannon said this on September 12, 2007 at 4:55 pm | Reply (edit)

6. Awesome pictures! What a blessing to be able to see some of your ‘old’ friends again. Looks like you all had lots of FUN – hopefully Natalie enjoyed it too! I haven’t been to Disneyland for soooo long…your pics really make me want to go there again!!

   bonnie said this on September 13, 2007 at 9:21 am | Reply (edit)

7. Great pictures, and glad to hear you had a great time visiting!

   kelly said this on September 13, 2007 at 7:54 pm | Reply (edit)

8. your “wonderful” in-laws are really nothing more than thieves and liars.

   anonymous said this on November 25, 2007 at 12:40 am | Reply (edit)