Saturday, January 2, 2010

Too Long

Let me just start out by saying that it has been a very long time since I have posted anything on this blog. Unfortunately, there is not one specific reason why I haven't blogged, maybe it was because of Facebook or maybe it was the lack of time or maybe it was because I felt like there was a lack of followers. For whatever the reason was I have since realized how much I enjoyed blogging and missed keeping up with my fellow bloggers.

As I begin 2010, I want to turn over a new leaf and start back blogging again, so I will begin with a brief summary of the highlights that have occurred in my life since my last post in May of 2009.

In July, our little girl decided to put Christ first in her life and was baptized by her daddy at church camp. We were so proud of her decision. Courtney is maturing into a wonderful young lady right before our eyes. She has a heart of gold.

This past summer we had a couple of visitors from the sunshine state. My mother in law and nephew came up in July and spent a couple of days with us. During their visit we did a little sight seeing and visited Abraham Lincoln's childhood home.

Now that I am posting this, I realize that July was a very busy month for us. My dad celebrated his 68th birthday in July. He had told me about a birthday party that was going to happen in his honor but never did he imagine that the kids and I would make the trip down to Florida for it. Boy, was he surprised!!! The party was a blast, an all day event. Dad even played a few songs on his new guitar.

At the end on July, the four of us took of to Chicago for a weekend get away before school started. It was a quick trip but we were able to see all that we wanted to see of the windy city. Of course while on Michigan Ave, Courtney and I had to visit the American Girl store.

We also went to the Aquarium. I love this picture of Phillip and the kids with the Aquarium in the background.
Of course, when you go to Chicago you have to go to Navy Pier, there we rode the infamous Ferris Wheel.

While the kids were not at camp during the summer and in between our mini vacations. We again enjoyed many summer days being lazy by the pool at Southland. This is one of those fun photos that I snapped of Jonah going of the high dive with his board. I love the action shot!!!

This was the first year for the Bowling Green Hot Rods, a minor league baseball team. We were fortunate enough to enjoy several games.

In August, Courtney attended her first ever concert, Demi Lovato. We had great seats, thanks to a wonderful friend.

September 4th, marked Phillip and my 16th wedding anniversary. I can not believe that it has been that long. Where does the time go????

During fall break we took off for the beach. Nothing like a little R&R in Destin. What a nice and relaxing vacation!!!


Since we were in Florida for 18 months I missed watching the leaves change, however I did not miss the raking of the leaves. Which we had lots to do this year in our front yard alone.


Is she not growing up too fast??? For Halloween, Courtney dressed up in her poodle skirt that my talented neighbor in Florida made for her.
After five years of homeschooling, we decided it was time for both kids to try a new chapter in their life....public school. With much prayer, we made this decision and have been pleased with the adjustment. Both kids brought home straight A's, which makes us very proud of them.

In December, the 6th graders at Courtney's school hosted a parent/child dance. Phillip took Courtney to the dance and out to dinner on the special night.

This year Courtney has discovered a true love for music. First she tried out and made it into chorus and then she decided to play the flute in the 6th grade band. It has been a pleasure to watch her grow and learn new and exciting things this year in school.
Jonah decided this year that he would play football, yes this was a total shock to Phillip and myself, but we all enjoyed the season even though we were sitting on the edge of our seats for most of the games, praying the he would not get injured.Jonah was inducted into the National Junior Beta Club in December...we are so proud of him.

And yes, we were very blessed with a wonderful Christmas this year. We were unable to make it to Florida so that was a very big change for us. However, I will admit that spending the entire day at home in front of the fire with my pj's on was nice.

Well like I said a brief summary of the highlights over the past 7 months and maybe this will be the kick start that I need to begin blogging again. I hope that all of you had a blessed Christmas and I wish you all a great 2010.


Blessings to all~
Carla

Monday, June 1, 2009

Live... Laugh... Love...

LIVE... life at its fullest
LAUGH... at all the things that don't matter
LOVE... all that you have and more




Friday, May 29, 2009

May Happenings

May has been a very busy month for us. On top of still trying to get settled into our new house we began the month of May celebrating the birthday of two special people...Courtney and Phillip. On the 7th, Courtney turned 11, where does the time go. This year she requested a sleepover with a few of her friends and instead of a fancy birthday cake, she wanted me to bake her a sandcastle cake decorated with strawberries and cool whip. I will say it was pretty easy and a BIG hit with the kids...meaning only a small piece was left over which was a blessing seeing how the next day we had another birthday cake...her dad's.





For her Birthday supper Courtney picked her favorite restaurant, Tumbleweed. Courtney has been heart broken ever since Tumbleweed closed their doors in BG but was excited when her daddy said that he would drive an hour in order for her to be able to eat at her favorite restaurant for her Birthday.



One of Courtney's birthday gifts from me was a mother daughter manicure and pedicure. Courtney especially enjoyed her pedicure and the message chair.


On the 8th, yes the day after Courtney's, Phillip turned...well we won't say but Courtney was his 30th birthday present, so you do the math. After spending the day recovering from Courtney's sleepover I surprised Phillip with his favorite dinner and for dessert, an ice cream cake from Baskin Robbin's.




Since moving to our new house last month, both kids have enjoyed watching the new life that comes with spring. Jonah found this young bird on Mother's Day that basically took to him. The bird would sit on his shoulder, finger and even his head (I wasn't crazy about that one but Courtney took a pic for me). As the afternoon went on this bird would follow Jonah every time he came in contact with the bird, it was really cute.





And before you think that I am trying to publish a book...the last thing in my May Happenings post is Mother's Day pictures. I feel so blessed to have such wonderful kids, without them I wouldn't be mother.

Blessings to all~

Carla

Monday, May 25, 2009

Memorial Day 2009

Today, I'm remembering the men and women who have served and who are serving for our country's freedoms. Several men in my family has served, and I'm so thankful for their sacrifice.

Happy Monday!!

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Wordless Wednesday


Blessings to all~
Carla

Monday, April 27, 2009

New Hair Do

Well it's a couple weeks old now, but it is still quite new to me and to anyone who has not seen it yet. I will say that this is the shortest I have ever worn my hair. Here's a side view...
I hope that everyone had a great weekend, the weather here in Ky was beautiful. Hope you have a great week.

Blessings to all~
Carla

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Rascal's Favorite Spot in Our New House


Rascal has discovered the morning sun that comes in through one of the dining room windows and shines on the hardwood floors. This has became his favorite spot to lie, especially when the kids and I are preoccupied with other things. I find it funny, he does have his favorite window. Since there are four windows like this at the front of the house and the sunlight comes in them all the same, he still chooses this one window every time.

BTW...yesterday marked the two year anniversary of my Blog. I can not believe it has been two years since I've started this blog and yet since I became introduced to Facebook back last summer I've really slacked off on my postings. Not that I haven't thought about posting and I have had plenty to post about...well I've just became a slacker!!! So, with that said, I am going to try and start posting more often even if its just for me. Hope everyone has a Happy Earth Day today!!
Blessings to all~
Carla
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Tuesday, April 21, 2009

2 years.....really??

Wow, I can not believe that it's been two years since I begin this journey. Truly, I never thought that my blog would last a year, but today marks the two year anniversary for my blog, yes, I find that hard to believe! It has been fun and if for no other reason but my own, it has been a good way to keep up with the everyday things that I do not keep track of in my scrapbooks.  One day I would still like to "publish" these so that in the years to come there would be a hard copy of the "flying with the starlings" blog. 

Sunday, March 22, 2009

Moving Again!!!

As many of you may have already heard, the Starling's are moving again...this time back to Bowling Green. Just over 18 months ago we left Bowling Green and moved to Ocala with Phillip's job. At that time we were excited for the move, looking forward to being back in Florida after being away for 7 years, looking forward to being back close to family and friends that we left years ago. But what we did not realize was the wonderful friends and close church family that we were leaving behind in Ky. What we did not realize,was that all our children had ever truly known was Ky. We knew within a few months of our move that we wanted to be back in BG and started praying then, that if it was the Lord's will, he would open a door and now he has. Unless something changes (date wise) we look to be moving around the first of April back to the Bluegrass state. We are still trying to sell our house in Ocala...so if anyone out there knows someone who needs a house in Ocala for purchase or to rent...... Anyway, please remember the Starling's in your prayers, that this move will go smoothly and our house will find a new owner, SOON!!!

Blessings to all~
Carla

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Mother of a Teenager

Where does the time go? It seem like just yesterday I was holding this little precious guy and now he is a TEENAGER!!! Yes...it is true Jonah celebrated the big 13 about a week ago. He's growing up! The Lord has certainly blessed us with one amazing son. I am so proud of all that he does. Thank you God for a wonderful son!!

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Our Christmas

I can honestly say that this year during the holiday season, we took it easy.... that is on the gift buying, the running around, and the "we have to do this because" and when everything was unwrapped and the Christmas decorations was taken down and put away for another year...Honestly, there was nothing that we missed out on and we truly enjoyed the season more as a family.

The fun activity during the month of December around our house was the traditional Advent calendar that we do every year, but this year there was an added twist. I turned the advent calendar into a daily scavenger hunt. Some days the clues led the kids to a treat hidden among a Christmas decoration or in the tree, or in a Christmas movie. Whatever it was, always brought excitement to the kids and was a treat that they looked forward to. On Christmas Eve, I sent them on a "wild goose" chase, they had ten different clues which ended them back under the tree to look for a present with their name on it and a green bow. They were allowed to open that gift. Jonah got new shoes and Courtney received Pj's along with matching ones for her American Girl Doll.

We spent Christmas Eve with Phillip's family and Christmas night with my family. This year was the first year ever that we were home on Christmas morning without needing to rush off to go to family, which was nice. We slept in...7:30, that's sleeping in on Christmas morning for us. It was enjoyable to be at home Christmas morning with the kids, we were not in a rush to open gifts or go anywhere. After lunch, the four of us headed to the movies to see Marley and Me...Loved it...I did cry. Then after the movie we enjoy Christmas dinner with my dad and my siblings. It was a great Christmas. Even with a few changes to traditions.



Jonah's big gift...PSP


Courtney received...the American Girl Doll Kit, along with the movie, which if you haven't seen it, you need to and many accessories.


Courtney and her matching pj's.

Our family...Christmas Eve night at Phillip's moms


My dad, sister, brother and me


My sister and her family


My Brother and his boys

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Merry Christmas

Well, as some may know, I had issues with our Christmas card this year. The one you see here, was my pride and joy however long story short, it was very pixelated (sp? if a word). This was card number 1, card number 2 which I ordered online and returned, I was displeased with...after three attempts, the third one I was happy with and a Christmas card finally made the mail and hopefully arrived before today. If you were over looked I apologized, there is a story behind the addressing of the cards also but I'll save that for another day, maybe.

Anyway, to all my friends, family and fellow bloggers, I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy 2009

Blessings to all-
Carla

Monday, December 1, 2008

Halloween Goo and Costume Mania

What a face!!

(from left to right) Phillip's creation, Jonah's, mine and Courtney's


Courtney and Rascal, our little pumpkin


The fun of carving pumpkins...cleaning out the pumpkin goo!


Jonah and Carla

Lots of Goo!!


Costume Mania
This year Jonah was Father Time and Courntey was Pinocchio.




Thursday, November 27, 2008

Thirteen Thanksgiving's Blessings

As Thanksgiving Day 2008 is coming to an end and my house that was full of noise early today is now quiet. I thought that I would surprise everyone with a post at the end of this Blessed Day.
So what better way then to share with you thirteen ways that I am blessed...

  1. God's grace... He died for me and then saved me!

  2. I have a husband that loves and supports me (married 15 years!).

  3. I am blessed with 2 beautiful children that I adore.

  4. I have great friends and family that I love.

  5. I was raised by godly parents that loved me no matter what!

  6. I have the choice to homeschool my kids (and I am loving it!).

  7. I have the freedom to worship the One and Only God!

  8. God has provided for all my needs.

  9. God has also provided for some of my wants.

  10. I have a roof over my head.

  11. I am able to stay home with my kids.

  12. My husband has a job that provides for all our needs.

  13. God loves me and will never forsake me!
I hope that everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving!! Many Blessings to everyone who visits and reads my blog.
Blessings to all,
Carla

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Blog Award

I have been nominated by Beth for an "I Love (Heart) Your Blog Award." Thanks! Due to this honor, I must answer the following questions with one word answers and nominate 10 other blogs for the "I heart your blog" award.

1. Where is your cell phone? purse
2. Where is your significant other? office
3. Your hair color? Blonde
4. Your mother? heaven
5. Your father? strong
6. Your favorite thing? family
7. Your dream last night? none
8. Your dream/goal? debt-free
9. The room you're in? family
10. Your hobby? scrapbooking
11. Your fear? Loss
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Kentucky
13. Where were you last night? church
14. What you're not? single
15. One of your wish-list items? Jeans
16. Where you grew up? Starke
17. The last thing you did? Facebook
18. What are you wearing? clothes
19. Your TV? off
20. Your pet? dog
21. Your computer? laptop
22. Your mood? sleepy
23. Missing someone? mother
24. Your car? mini-van
25. Something you're not wearing? shorts
26. Favorite store? Target
27. Your summer? short
28. Love someone? Phillip
29. Your favorite color? pink
30. When is the last time you laughed? today
31. Last time you cried? Tuesday

Whew - that's a challenge to only do one word!

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

It's Been a While

It's been a while since I have blogged...I kinda felt that there was nothing exciting to write about, but then I realized that I was just going through a time when I have tried to stay focus on what the Lord has in store for me and my family. Truth be known, I have been searching...asking God for direction as to where our life needs to take us. We have now been in Ocala for a year and even though I do not hate living here, I am ready to move tomorrow if we could. If I could only turn back time and Phillip and I knew then what we know now, we would have fought to stay in BG. With this said, I have been going through some personal issues and knew that I needed to rely on God with my whole heart. You know, saying that phrase seems easy, right? I mean, for those who call ourselves Christians, we are suppose to lean on him with everything that we have, but how often do we give it to him and then take it right back? That is sooooo my problem, I want to handle everything myself, I want to be in control, I am sooooo guilty of this. Just because it is not in OUR timing, I feel God is not aware of our situation when in reality he is aware of all and has a plan for all. With that in mind, I have memorized Philippians 4:6 " Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God." I would appreciate any prayers that God would give me direction and peace at this time.

Blessings to all~
Carla

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Catch a Wave

Since we live just an hour from the beach, an afternoon spent at the beach is not hard to do, just load up the cooler, make sure we have everything and head in that direction. This past weekend that is exactly what we did. We spent an afternoon at the beach, soaking up the rays, splashing in the waves, and enjoying our time together as a family. The waves were awesome, the kids enjoyed riding their boogie boards and playing in the sand. The weather was beautiful not one cloud, which this time of year it can be unpredictable.
Here are a few pictures that I thought I would share.



What a pose!
I like the sailboat in the background.
I am surprised that I captured this one on camera.
Courtney crossed right over the back over Jonah, he barely felt her.

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Our 15th Anniversary

On this day, fifteen years ago, Phillip and I said, "I Do." Where does the time go? And how the styles changes? I think there was more dress there, then there was me.