our journey

WE HAVE MOVED

2011-09-07T11:11:00.000-07:00

I am in the process of creating a different blog! This format will give me the opportunity to share my thoughts, the going "on's" of my family and my new found adventure. Check it out. I will post very soon as to why we are now in VA. Maybe some of you didn't know we were in NC!

Go here: http://sixschiavones.wordpress.com

things i indulge in...

2011-03-25T11:53:00.000-07:00

These days I am consumed 99% of the time with things that have to do with messes, very short attention spans, stopping one from seriously hurting them self, or breaking up what seems to be "the end of the world" circumstances. If you are a mother I know you can relate. BUT I have learned that I have to find simple things that make me feel better about myself and give me some kind of breather throughout my day. There are very few things that I have the luxury to indulge myself with but here are a few of them:
I am not one to buy lots of make up and hair products but I have found one that I LOVE! It makes my skin so healthy and not to mention it isn't expensive.

The company is Everday Minerals. I found it a couple of years ago on a blog that I like to read. I ordered some of their free samples and loved it! It is completely natural. Besides being a great product their website is very chic!!! They always have promos going on so you can try something for free and who doesn't love free things!

So... one of the other things I love to indulge in is coffee. I was not a coffee drinker until I married into the Schiavone family. I now find myself completely addicted and can not start my morning without the aroma it creates in my home and the simple taste (with added Creme Brulee thanks to my dear friends the Vernons). Our current favorite is Caribou Coffee. This brand is new to me since we moved south. I was given the "grind and brew" by Cuisinart last Christmas and love it. It truly has made a difference in the way the coffee is brewed! Not only is coffee fantastic... it makes conversation so much better!

If you ever wanted to make that perfect cup of coffee... Here are some suggestions from the makers of Caribou Cofee:
BREW YOUR BEST
These simple steps will ensure that your home-brewed coffee tastes as delicious as it does when we brew it for you.
1. Start with fresh, whole Caribou Coffee beans that appeal to your unique taste buds.
Find your coffee
2. Just before brewing, grind the beans to match your type of coffeemaker.
Grind Guide
3. Use oxygen-bleached or metal coffee filters.
4. Measure out two heaping tablespoons of ground coffee for every eight ounces of water.
5. Use a coffeemaker with a slow brew time (between four and seven minutes).
HELPFUL TIPS FOR GREAT-TASTING COFFEE
Store your coffee in an airtight, opaque container, on the counter or in the cupboard. Do not store your coffee in the refrigerator or freezer, as it will take on the flavors that are present.
Never reheat your coffee. Once coffee has cooled, the chemistry has changed. Bitter oils and flavors will dominate the taste. Reheating will further break down the few aromatics left.

GO AND MAKE THAT CUP OF COFFEE AND HAVE A GREAT CONVERSATION!!!

(the links to each of these websites are at the bottom of my blog)

What is YOURS?

2011-03-17T12:01:00.000-07:00

dream
Part of Speech: noun
Definition: goal
Synonyms: ambition, aspiration, design, desire, flight of fancy, hope, notion, pipe dream, wish...

Today I sit here in absolute quiet... well not "absolute" quiet because I am sitting outside. So I am just ignoring the annoying dog that barks frequently. Sitting in the warmth of the sun and southern breeze... I will stop bragging about the amazing weather here in NC. I got the blessing of breaking out of the "everyday norm" today. I am one baby down (not mine, the little guy I take care of) so I am home with just my two guys. We went and ate lunch at the girls school and NOW instead of trying to get all my house work done during naps, I decided to sit and blog my thoughts.

I have had soooooooo much going on in my mind. It is crazy and at times feels like I might explode while the chaos of being a mommy to 4 and caretaker to 1 happens all around me. So I started to jot down my blog thoughts whenever one comes to mind. Because these thoughts tend to come when all of my extremities are being used for something. Actually sitting down with my laptop for extended periods of time is not a luxury I have.

So here is one thought...

Going back to the word "DREAM"... I love the words that were given as the synonyms: ambition, aspiration, design, desire, flight of fancy, hope, notion, pipe dream, wish... Those words have been such a distraction in my train of thought lately. It doesn't matter what I am doing but in the back of my mind is this thought... d r e a m... How many of us actually get to live out our dreams? I mean the kind of "dream" that you would be afraid to tell someone because of the fear of being laughed at or not even receiving a response. AND I don't mean the "dreams" that you have while sleeping! As I sit here looking into the bluest sky ever... I can't help but wonder why these "dreams" enter our thoughts and even invade our hearts anyways. Are they given to us by God or just a result of our choices in life and environment? Not sure... but here is mine...

I have two dreams... aspirations... desires... and hopes... The first is to take my whole family on a missions trip every year until they graduate from high school. Yes, I know that my children are young but as I try to grapple with what is happening in this world I realize that we are given a very "short time" on this earth. I want so much more for my kids than what "society" expects of them. I want them to see people through Jesus's eyes. I want them to see that there is a HUMUNGOUS world out there that needs to experience the love of a Savior that died on a cross for ALL people. I want them to experience different cultures... and learn what it truly means to be a servant. I know that there is a lot I can do now and even in my home and neighborhood but something amazing happens to you when you are taken out of your surroundings. I don't know if this dream will ever come true... I pray that it does...

Dream number two is one that maybe I will make come true when I am older, wiser, and free of children. You know when you have something you like to do and there isn't anything else that gives you more satisfaction (besides being a wife and mom of course)???? For me I love, love, love to be in the kitchen BAKING!!!! Lately it has been so therapeutic for me. It is funny because Anthony knows I am stressed when he comes home to find some "yummy deliciousness" sitting on the counter waiting to be consumed!!! Seriously though... my dream would be to open a bakery. One that kind of functions just like the one in the movie "Stranger than Fiction". If you have seen the movie you know what I am talking about. Ahhhh... I can smell it just sitting here dreaming of it... Cakes... pies... cookies and of course the staple to any meal BREAD. Everywhere I have lived I have wished there was a bakery that baked bread and bagels all day, not just in the morning. For this mom getting to a store in the morning is a nightmare. Not even sure what I would name it yet. I hope that someday when I do make this dream come true... if you are reading this I will make something special just for you.

What is your d r e a m???

Sufficient Grace????

2011-03-08T06:22:00.000-08:00

2 Corinthians 12:8-10
8 Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. 9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 10 That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Yesterday as I was in the middle of feeling very sick... trying to make two crying babies happy... entertain a two year old and then help the girls with homework... oh and did I mention I was trying to prepare for dinner by myself since Tony wouldn't be home 'till 10 that night... I remembered this verse... it just spoke softly into my very very frustrated and screaming mind.

HIS GRACE IS SUFFICIENT!!!

His power is made perfect in my weakness. My weaknesses have surfaced more than ever during this time of "another" transition. I can't even sit and write what this move has been like. Only because that post would be way too long! Tony and I stepped into the most uncomfortable unknowns when we moved to NC. Not because we wanted a huge pat on the back or any body's attention but we did it because of God's call on our life. We put every body's opinion's aside... put our "own plans" aside... even knew that we were putting our own children's wants and needs aside... Why, Why, Why?

I have been asking myself that question more than ever. I have questioned everything we prayed for a year ago and the faith that I held on to so tightly when we decided to come here. Then YESTERDAY came... the absolute chaos that has become a daily thing in this house... AND THEN...

Those soft words echoed in my heart and my mind... "That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong." Those words have not just spoke life into my weary soul but have reminded me why I even exist. To glorify the God that created me... To truly live out my life through the strength I am given when I realize how "weak" I am. God's grace is more than enough to get me through the days that are absolutely IMPOSSIBLE, like yesterday. I know there are plenty of more days like that one to come but I will pray those words in every frustrating moment.

Monday Morning Craziness?

2011-03-07T06:29:00.000-08:00

Are Monday mornings really that dreadful? I am always reading posts about everyone dreading Monday mornings and just hating the start of another week.

I have been learning some hard lessons in my life lately. The lesson of contentment has been a theme for my life! So instead of dreading Monday mornings in this house... I will find a way to be content in knowing that it is the beginning of another week that I get to raise four of the most amazing kids on this earth... to be married to an amazing man... and serve the most AMAZING God.

I have NOT been given this life to always look back, to always find something to complain about, to always regret little things, and to always want for something more. My life... my journey... has been given to me so that I can be what God has intended for me to be.

So for my Monday morning... it has been glorious despite starting it by changing TWO poopy diapers. The sun is shining in my windows so beautifully and 3 out of 4 of my kids are playing quietly. Despite one staying home from school with a little cold. Micah has chosen this small Bible that I have on the book shelf to have as his own. He babbles on and on about "Jesus" thinking he is reading the words. I pray that "the Word" becomes an integral part of his life every day!

Over a year later...

2011-03-04T11:54:00.000-08:00

Was my last post really over a year ago... actually almost two years now? What has happened between then and now? I can tell you I have finally embraced this journey I am on. It is funny because as I read the previous posts I have written, I can't believe how different I am sitting here in this very place I now call my home. I was never consistent at posting to this blog. I just simply love to read my friends blogs and the blogs that inspire them. I just never really felt like I had anything "inspirational" to say. But I have realized that nothing I can say will inspire except for the amazing things God is doing in "Our journey". So I decided to finally do some "fixing and updates" on our blog. To use it (our blog) as a place of contemplation, healing, and figuring out what this journey means.

It is so overwhelming to read all the miraculous and marvelous things God does in all of our lives. I can go from blog to blog and just sit here and be amazed at His hand. I have come to the realization that reading and writing in this way can be so freeing. In a way it frees you from the bondage of your circumstances and gives you a whole new perspective. You realize that this world is so full of people just like you... on a journey.

Our journey's are all different. Some of us get to stay in one place our whole life...or some have the opportunity to experience life in different places. Some of us experience an incredible amount of disaster and heartache... some of us just get to go through life with so much joy and happiness... Regardless what we go through, we NEVER go through it alone. This past year has been one of the most difficult times in my faith. I felt like I have been shaken to my very core and have been put in a place I never would had expected! I know now why God only gives us small glimpses of where He is leading us.

I hope that my words in this blog bring satisfaction and honor to my Savior...

Expectations!

2009-08-02T18:21:00.000-07:00

So...MY expectations for this year were this... Wanted to get really involved in our student ministry. Was ready for the next stages for our family and began putting the infant baby stuff behind us. With all of this in mind and May and June being crazy months, I didn't pay attention to one small detail! Yes, I am pregnant... I am now 13 weeks and am due the beginning of February. I am amazed that God thinks I can handle this but I am up for it. I am just in awe of having another little one when my baby is still a baby! AH! I am praying for strength and patience. For God to do something in me that will change the lives of my children!

Perspective...

2009-03-10T11:26:00.001-07:00

Every Tuesday morning I take Abby to a gymnastics class at our local YMCA. I've decided to run on the treadmill while she is at class. I am thankful that I can take Micah and put him in the child watch for about an hour. When I first took her I found myself complaining... as usual. But today I received a different perspective... What I do with my time and I mean every minute of the day should not be about me. "How can I benefit" and "I should get the best since I am paying for it". My complaining list just went on and on... I am not sure why I have been so challenged lately on this part of my life but wondering if there is something God truly wants me to learn. As I walked around the Y doing my thing, I began to see through totally different eyes. Like I put on someones glasses and had to squint my eyes a little. I saw what I think Jesus sees all the time. That is people that are so lost and confused that they don't even know where to turn. People that literally have nothing but try to live like they do. I have to be honest... I am not sure I want to see this way all the time... After a few minutes my heart began to get so heavy. I don't know where this is going to lead me and what God wants me to do but I was brought to these verses:
"In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding."
Ephesians 1:7-8

A Life of NO complaints...

2009-03-09T17:26:00.000-07:00

Is it possible or just a far off goal that can't be achieved? Today was one of those days where I could have complained all day!!! But every time I came to that point, for some reason I was reminded of the simple blessings in my life. In the past year God has done so much in my life! I have been seriously been overwhelmed. When we moved back to NY, I guess "my plans" were so different that what God had planned. I look at my relationships, the birth of a SON, the purchase of a HOUSE, and being a stay at home mom and realize none of this was in my plan. Except for the house thing... that was definitely in MY plan! I am simply overwhelmed.

I think that is why I have come to the point where my complaining just seems so silly! I want my life and what comes from my heart to TRULY reflect the heart of God. He is stirring something deep within me.

The Forgotten Blog...

2009-02-13T11:45:00.000-08:00

Since I have joined Facebook, blogging has been the last thing on my mind. I am one that can not maintain anything more than my e-mail and facebook. I realized today that I haven't even been checking my blog. Juggling has never been easy for me and for most days surviving motherhood is the only task for the day. These past months have been great! The kids have been growing in so many ways! We have done work on our house and I recently became brave and changed my hair. I have had the same hair color and style FOREVER! So... after turning 30, I guess I wanted to stay "hip" (it makes me laugh to even type that word). Never really considered myself "hip". But, I love it! Makes life a little more refreshing. I am going to try and put together a post of before and after pictures for the house so you can see the transformation from "80's" to 2009! Not sure how long that will take... based on my past blogging history, it will probably take awhile. We shall see...

2009-01-07T17:22:00.000-08:00

I have to write about a special person. She was brought into our lives when we moved back to NY. She has become a part of my crazy family and loves my children more than anyone else I know. She has watched our girls so many times without asking for anything in return. I can always be at peace knowing that they are taken care of. So this is for you, Nikki... my favorite friend... I love you.

Pickering Family 2008

2009-01-03T12:45:00.000-08:00

Every three to five years my (joy) side if the family takes a family photos. It is a stressful day because there a ten children and it is very hard to get them to cooperate. I think we got some great pictures...

My mom and dad...

Pickering Family

My oldest brother Matt and his family...

My sister Holly and her family...

My brother Luke and his boys...

G & G with all the grandkids...

The WHOLE family...

Micah's favorite Christmas present!

2009-01-03T12:15:00.000-08:00

This is now Micah's favorite thing to do, other than eat. He loves to sit in his high chair and play. Or should I say beat on the toy!

Memories from Christmas 2008...

2009-01-03T12:01:00.000-08:00

The loves of my life...

Priceless... Micah spits up on Cora and she didn't realize it till seconds later when she feels it on her hand!!!

From Halloween to Christmas... ?

2009-01-03T11:36:00.000-08:00

I have now realized that the last time I posted was right after Halloween. Here we are... just week after Christmas. I know I don't even have to say it but "TIME FLIES"! This holiday season was wonderful. Thanksgiving was great! We put up our Christmas decorations during Thanksgiving break so that we could enjoy it longer. Now the decorations sit on the dining room table ready to be put back in the Christmas bins. I has to keep reminding myself to take in every moment... This was Micah's first Christmas. He slept through most of it but it was fun to see him react to all the excitement. It is funny... even with all the emphasis on keeping Christmas simple and the reminders that it was Jesus' birthday, the famous phrase of the day was, "Are there anymore presents for me?". It was very hard to keep the girls in check with why we celebrate Christmas. Then it was my birthday... Let me tell you a story... I will make it short! Two weeks before Christmas, Anthony and I found out that we were surprising each other on the same weekend. I was surprising him with Buffalo Bills tickets for Christmas and he was surprising me with a weekend away for my "30th" b-day. So after a week of discussion as to how both of us were going to pull of our surprises... we compromised with a weekend in Niagara Falls. That way he could still go to the game. Our weekend was great. We had two beautiful hotel rooms, lots of great food, great conversation and well... can't share anymore... (hee hee) This was truly a Christmas and birthday to remember!
This is our living room in the junior presidential suite...

The amazing view from our hotel room!!!

A blurb in Time!

2008-11-22T18:54:00.000-08:00

I have been meaning to post for about two months now. Tonight I have realized that it has actually been two months. Micah is now three months old and has become the sweetest and funnest baby ever!!! I can't imagine what life was like before him!

The girls are loving their brother. I love to see them talk to him and make him smile and giggle. It is such a beautiful thing to see your children love on each other. Cora is a big first grader and Abby is loving pre-K. Abby just loves life! She embraces whatever comes her way. Cora is an amazing reader and I am enjoying her love of books.

Anthony and I are doing... well... life just gets to busy! I am turning 30 in December and am for some reason not doing so well with that! I feel like life is just going to be different... I don't know...

With that said... I am very excited for the holidays and having my girls to myself this coming week!

Blessings...

2008-10-03T07:20:00.000-07:00

Some days I get so caught up in the things we don't have, stresses of the day, and just plain business THAT I forget of all the blessings! I forget that I have three healthy children, a solid marriage, a house of my own, two cars, a great dog (most of the time) and my health. I wish I would stop taking this all for granted and be on my knees every morning thanking God instead bringing Him so many requests. Life for me has dramatically changed since Micah came into this world. I am now in a new place in my life... One that I can't put into words...

I just found a bunch of pictures from the day Micah was born that I hadn't seen!!! So here are some amazing moments from August 13, 2008...

Back online...

2008-09-22T18:16:00.000-07:00

o... Since the day Micah was born and I became a mother of three... I can believe how fast the day goes by. Some days I can't even keep track of what time it is. But I have learned to just take one day at a time. These past five weeks have been a journey for me. Going from a steady routine that I could control to everything spinning out of control has made me put so many things into perspective. I was having such a hard time with the demands of Cora, Abby, Micah and Anthony. I am just one person and did not know if I could handle it. BUT God continues to whisper in my ear the I am not doing this alone. He is there when I am stretched beyond my capabilities and reminds me why I wanted to be a mom. Oh and I love being the mom to these crazy kids. I am so in love my new son. He has brought more meaning and joy to my life!

Enjoy the pictures of the past few weeks...

Micah John Schiavone

2008-08-14T07:51:00.000-07:00

7lbs. 8oz.
20 inches

August 13th started off to be such a quiet day. A day of laundry and cleaning... A regular checkup to see if I was progressing and little did we know it was going to be Micah's birthday!!! I was checked into the hospital at 3pm, my water broke at 5:15and then he was here at 8:39pm!!! I am sitting here still in amazement of the whole day! He is such a great baby so far... and so cute!

35 weeks and counting...

2008-07-22T08:16:00.000-07:00

So the last time that I posted I think I was still in my second trimester... I can't believe how fast time has gone and I am now less than five weeks away from being a mother of three! This pregnancy has been great so far... despite some swelling and crazy movements of the baby. I have been trying to live life abundantly even though I am carrying a heavy watermelon under my shirt. Anthony and I are in week two of NTS camp up at Houghton College. Our youth group was here last week and this week Anthony is doing afternoon rec. and helping out wherever. We brought the girls this week. They are so excited to be with us. We don't usually take our kids to youth group things but felt they would love it up here. So far so good... We are on vacation next week!!!! So, we are not going anywhere but just going to chill out and spend lots of family time. Well... since the last time I posted... Cora turned six, she got a kitten, we bought a new van, I have doubled in size and Abby now has short hair! I love life!

(Pictures will come soon when I finally download them to my computer.)

Something funny...

2008-05-15T10:33:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken back in April on our Spring Break trip to Myrtle Beach. This was the first time I realized I could use my belly as a rest. What a perfect place for my morning coffee!!!

What a special mother's day...

2008-05-15T10:18:00.000-07:00

We were able to celebrate mother's day this year with both families!!! We haven't been able to do this since we were married. It was a wonderful day.

Think Spring...

2008-05-15T09:57:00.000-07:00

The one thing I absolutely love about my house is that I have lots of flowers!!! Tulips, daffodils, peony's, lilacs, roses, and some I am not even sure what they are called. It is so much fun to always have a fresh bouquet of flowers in my dining room...

Orange Conference 2008

2008-05-15T09:44:00.000-07:00

Anthony and I had the opportunity to go to Atlanta, GA for ORANGE! It was an amazing experience... We had a lot of fun eating out, just relaxing and visiting Northpoint Community Church. We were so blessed and God is still doing things in our lives through our experience there. It was pretty amazing to be led into worship by Steve Fee too!!! I can't wait to go back some time!!!

Birthday Celebration!!!

2008-05-14T07:52:00.000-07:00

Well, I did it... I tried to pull off a surprise thing for Anthony last night. The planned diversion was somewhat successful. When it was all over I was so happy with how it went! It was so great to have a house full of people celebrating my husband! The only problem of the evening was ABBY! She never ceases to amaze or should I say "embarrass" us! I won't write about what she did but if you are ever curious just ask me... Besides that it was so much fun though... I think we are finally feeling, after several years, like we are at home!

Happy Birthday, Anthony! I hope it was a special birthday for you.

A life taken to soon...

2008-05-08T09:30:00.000-07:00

Sammi was a part of the FUEL youth group in Egg Harbor, NJ. Anthony and I had the chance to get to know her and be a part of her journey in her relationship with Jesus Christ. The last summer we were at Christ's Wesleyan she accepted Christ as her saviour at the penn-jersey youth camp. Since we have been gone we were told Sammi continued to have an amazing testimnoy.

CALLE, SAMANTHA, 19 - of Mays Landing, died Monday, May 5, 2008 at her home. She was born in Atlantic City. Samantha was a resident of Atlantic County most of her life and spent some time in Corpus Christi, TX. She was a student at Oakcrest High School and a graduate of Absegami High School in 2007. Sammi is survived by her father Felipe Calle, her mother Sylvia Hegedus and her two siblings Carlos Zamora and Julieanna Zamora. There will be a viewing on Thursday, 2-4 PM, at the Boakes Funeral Home, 6050 Main St., Mays Landing where services will be held at 4 PM. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Ronald McDonald House of Delaware, 1901 Rockland Rd., Wilmington, DE 19803. (Info and condolences

2008-05-07T08:10:00.000-07:00

This is a picture taken by a friend of mine. Abby loves to have her picture taken. I am now getting closer to the day that this baby will come into the world. The more and more I think about it the more and more I get really nervous. The girls can't wait and are so ready to help. Right now I just want to enjoy my summer with them and just try to relax!!!

More from the beach...

2008-04-18T13:35:00.001-07:00

Anthony and I at Broadway at the Beach

The Eight...

This is so much fun!

This has been a great week... Although we are all a little red from the sun!!!

Spring Break in Myrtle Beach, SC

2008-04-15T15:12:00.000-07:00

Anthony and I and Chris and Ashley Vernon took the seniors in our youth group on a spring break trip. We are staying in North Myrtle Beach and we are about five or six blocks from the beach. Since we arrived on Saturday the weather has not cooperated. It has been windy and cold. The week before we came it was in the 80's!!! We have been trying to find things to do... most of all we are just enjoying hanging out and having fun. Here are some photos of us going to church on Sunday and the retreat center where we are staying. I will post more again maybe tomorrow.

2008-04-09T07:45:00.000-07:00

Chloe, Cora's favorite friend...(our pastor's daughter)

This was our first day of truly enjoying mother nature. This is the playground 2 minutes from our new house! We walk there often. On this day our new neighbors, Jake and Cloe (our pastor's kids) joined us! I love Spring!!!

Twisted Hair...

2008-04-09T07:41:00.000-07:00

Let me just say that Abby has a horrible habit of getting into things. Usually it is just lotion or gel in her hair or all over her face. Well, on this day she got a black comb stuck in her hair. I have never seen anything like this in my life. Anthony had to get plyers and scissors to get this thing out and it didn't come out in one piece!

Daydreaming...

2008-03-26T10:08:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had a day where you could just close your eyes and dream yourself some place else? Today has been one of those days for me. Maybe it is because of our long, cold and dark winter... Wednesdays are my longest days at school. I teach all day from 9am until about 2:30. For some of you that is not very long! I was looking out the window and the sun was so inviting. I had to go and find a picture of where I want to be right now!!!

The long awaited moment...

2008-03-25T10:21:00.000-07:00

Baby hiding its identity...(crossing its legs)

A profile picture of the face...

I have been waiting for this day since I found out I was pregnant. My 20 week ultrasound went great today. The baby was adorable and moved all around! We got some great pictures! Everything looks amazing and the baby measures out perfectly. What a miracle!

Easter Sunday...

2008-03-25T09:54:00.000-07:00

Abby and Tank waiting for dinner...

Mom, dad, brother Matt and wife Carmen

Pickering grandchildren (minus Maddison and Grace

Ready, set, go... the race for the eggs

As I posted earlier... My family came for Easter. It went great, even though my mom forgot to put in the potato dish! Oh well... mashed potatoes always work. Anyways... Kelly, our new pastor's wife, invited all the kids over for a Easter Egg hunt. What a blast! It certainly made everybody's day. On Good Friday, Anthony and I took the girls to the service at 8:00 with our friend Bre. I was ready for the worst possible experience because it was so late... but it turned into a great worship experience for our girls. Cora asked so many questions and was able to take communion for the second time. It was a moment I will never forget. Even though they are young, God is working in their hearts.

Tank....the dog

2008-03-25T09:37:00.000-07:00

We just got Tank a little bed... at first he didn't want anything to do with it but now he uses it all the time.

2008-03-19T07:25:00.000-07:00

I love this picture! I am so excited for Easter Sunday! We are having my whole family for dinner. This will be the first time since Anthony and I have been married that we have been able to host a holiday meal. We have been so blessed!

Abigail Schiavone...

2008-03-17T07:55:00.000-07:00

So... The challenge of raising a very strong willed three year old... Abby has been since the day she was born sometimes difficult. Lately she has been impossible. She is sneaky, talks back, to much attitude and somehow has learned how to lie. I am trying so hard to focus on how much fun she is, her laughter and her silliness but it is hard at times. These pictures always make me remember how amazing she is...

The Schiavone Homestead...

2008-03-13T09:32:00.000-07:00

This house has given us so much pride... Here is a list of what we have had to do so far: new kitchen and bathroom floors (three of them), lots of paint everywhere, drywall and mudding, plenty of plumbing, about 900 sq. ft. of new carpet, cutting of bushes, hauling four truck loads of junk and trash and hmmm... what else... There is so much more... Oh... new lighting fixtures in almost all the rooms. this process has been rewarding, satisfying, and exhausting! Hope you enjoy the pictures. I didn't include any of the baby's room, other bathrooms, and living room. I will post more soon.
The finished bathroom...

My peaceful place of rest... (which is actually messy)

Cora and Abby's unfinished room...

Family Room/Play Room...

Office...

Dining Room...

This is the front door...

Officially pregnant!!!

2008-03-13T09:15:00.000-07:00

Well... I am getting larger every day! I can't wear my size four and six pants any more and my shirts are all way to tight. This pregnancy has been so different. I have already gained twelve pounds and am feeling plump. Maybe it is because it is my third! Well... if that is the case I would hate to see what is going to happen to me in the fourth pregnancy. If there will be a fourth pregnancy... So here is a not so great picture at seventeen weeks.

Finally caving in...

2008-03-13T09:05:00.000-07:00

Moments after...

She picked out the beautiful little flower earings...

The day we were suppose to close on our house, Anthony and I finally decided Cora could get her ears pierced. She had been asking for a long time and told both of us she was ready. So... We took her to Claire's and she sat there perfectly and let them pierce her ears. She was fine up until they did it at the same time and then she broke and started to cry. It didn't last long and as soon as we got home she was fine and it didn't hurt anymore. She is so precious!

Living on 203 Victory Highway...

2008-03-12T08:47:00.000-07:00

We have been in our new house now for almost a week. I was finally able to cook a real meal last night. Even though I have to scramble around boxes it is beginning to feel like home. We have been busy remodeling and painting and the new carpet was laid yesterday so I can finally begin to unpack boxes. Anthony and I have joked several times that we are NEVER moving again... I know that is probably not going to happen but I do pray the girls will have a chance to grow up in this house. Tank, our puppy, has been doing much better now that he is not in his crate at night. It has been fun watching him, he loves being apart of this family. It is hilarious to watch him though. When Anthony is home Tank follows him everywhere!!! When Anthony leaves Tank circles the house, goes up and down the stairs, and goes to every door looking for him.

HOME... That is something I have missed in my life for a long time now!

Sleepless Night...

2008-03-06T07:47:00.000-08:00

So, we are officially moved in! If you didn't already know... We have a 1 1/2 year old golden retriever. We are having to train him all over again! He is surprisingly doing really well...EXCEPT...for last night. He is in his crate at night and until last night we have had no problems other than him refusing to go in it. But once he is in, he is fine. Last night he began barking as soon as Anthony put him to bed. So we let it go for awhile and then Anthony took hime out again thinking he had to go to the bathroom. Then he continued to bark on and off ALL NIGHT LONG! He is in the garage which is directly under our bedroom. It was so annoying. I didn't even want to look at him this morning. I have never seen such a strong willed dog. If he continues... he is going to find himself freezing OUTSIDE!!!

The Structure of a Family...

2008-02-28T09:29:00.000-08:00

Cora's favorite pose...

Sledding at grandma's...

Abby all bundled up...

Abby's 3 year old picture...

The past nine months have really tested the strength of my family. Our four person family has been turned upside down. It is interesting because my girls attitudes and moods have totally changed. In the past week we have been putting lots of hours into our new home which still isn't actually ours (CLOSING TOMORROW AT 11:00). I have seen my children become stressed and struggling because they don't really know how to show how they are feeling. So many changes and no routine. I know that this too shall pass but in the meantime my heart breaks for my kids. I have given this whole thing over to God. After tomorrow we will be home owners again!!!!!

STILL WAITING...

2008-02-21T14:43:00.000-08:00

The past month has been one of many frustrations. I am not quite sure why bankers, lawyers and loan officers can't just work together. We have been trying to close on our house for over two weeks now. It has been the most stressful thing we have had to do. We had a closing date but now because of water issues, surveying issues, and flood insurance we are back at the waiting game! I am not quite sure why God has allowed all this crazy stuff but I am learning to be patient. I can't wait for they day when I lay my head down in my very own BED!!!!!!!

Blog Language...

2008-02-01T14:14:00.000-08:00

I have learned a lot about the world of blogging. The more I began to look into it the more I became confused. I have had two snow days this week and have tried to take the time and change our blog template. Well... I changed it and still do not know anymore than what I did. I put in the effort, I guess. The technical stuff is just not my thing. To all of you that can do that type of thing...I applaud you! Maybe you could give me some tips.

(joy)

So close to home...

2008-01-28T10:10:00.000-08:00

Well, we are so close to our closing date. Things are going surprisingly well. I can't wait to finally wake up in my own bed, make my family dinner, fall asleep on my own couch, and regain my privacy! I can't wait to post pictures when we finally move in. It is crazy the things we take for granted every day. I have learned so much!

Have you heard of it?

2008-01-25T07:28:00.000-08:00

I teach Technology at a Christian school here in Corning. I have discovered a new or at least new to me craze for the junior high students. It is called wetpaint. It is a free site where you can create a website for yourself. I have been trying to do some research and have found that it is just one more thing to distract... Check it out http://www.wetpaint.com/

It Seems Like A World Away...

2008-01-23T17:06:00.000-08:00

I just got done reading a post by a nurse over in Kenya, Africa. She works with an organization called ELI (Empowering Live's Internationally). Our church supports them and the missionaries Don and Amy Rogers. I don't even know what to think about what people are going through in that country. I try to read their blog everyday to remind myself there is so much more out there. The nurse included this prayer in her post and I wanted to share it:

May God bless you with discomfort
At easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships
So that you may live deep within your heart.

May God bless you with tears
To shed for those who suffer pain, rejections, hunger and war,
So that you may reach out your hand to comfort them
And to turn their pain into joy.

And may God bless you with enough foolishness
To believe that you can make a difference in the world
So that you can do what others claim cannot be done.
To bring justice and kindness to all.

You can check out their blog and continue to pray that peace can be restored to those people.
http://empoweringlives.blogspot.com/

2008-01-19T07:37:00.000-08:00

I had to have an ultrasound on Thursday because of some complications but as soon as the nurse started the ultrasound we immediately saw the little peanut and could see a strong beating heart! Anthony and I both breathed a sigh of relief. So here he or she is... Amelia June or Micah John. Soon to be born on August 22, 2008!

Cora's new love...

2008-01-09T16:09:00.000-08:00

Cora received a special present from her grandparents this year. They gave her the whole ballet outfit with lessons. I took her for the first time on Monday. Up until now Anthony and I have not involved our children in anything. It was kind of fun just sitting and waiting with all of the other moms. She loved it! I was able to watch at the end of the class. I couldn't believe how big she looked dancing across the floor. We will give it a year and see of it is still a love of hers.

The days after...

2008-01-01T17:52:00.000-08:00

Well it is January 1st, 2008! Back to reality tomorrow and the regular routine. Christmas was wonderful! We finally made the announcement that Anthony and I are expecting our third child!!! The whole family was surprised and very excited! Cora and Abby can't wait and don't understand why my belly isn't big. So, this Christmas will always be remembered!

Christmas is coming...

2007-12-19T13:13:00.000-08:00

This Christmas is going to be different.. There have been so many things happening in our lives the past months and for some reason the meaning of Christmas changes when life throws out difficult circumstances. The one thing that continues to stay consistent is my faith in Jesus Christ. Even though my earthly flesh cries out to God for answers, my heart calms my mind with His truth. The truth is that no matter what it is you are going through...He is always there. His word promises that. "Emanuel"... God with us. That is what Christmas means to my family this year. We don't need a our own home to celebrate...we don't need money for presents...we don't need everything to be just right...I am so thankful that God is with me in every step of my day. I know that this Christmas and all the ones to come will mean so much more.

Merry Christmas!

Joy

Schiavone House Fire

2007-10-22T18:14:00.000-07:00

Well...Life never seems to get any easier. Things never seem to get back to normal. We have been living with Anthony's parents since June. Last Tuesday, October the 13Th, a fire was started by a humidifier in the Schiavone' sun room. It shorted out and caught the couch on fire and then proceeded to set the room on fire. Anthony's dad and brother, Joey heard the fire alarm go off and then realized the house was on fire and got everyone out of the house. Anthony and I were at church attending a Financial Peace class that we have been going to for the past six weeks. On our way home at about 9p.m. we followed one of the fire trucks up the road. Hoping it wasn't going to our house. Then we came around the corner and there were five fire trucks parked in front of the house. Smoke was coming out everywhere and I couldn't see where the girls were. Anthony's family was standing in the yard and I began screaming trying to find Cora and Abby. The girls were put in our mini van to stay warm. I immediately embraced Abby and she looked at me and said "Mommy, will you stay with me forever?" For some reason those words have not left my mind. Not being there at the moment they needed me has been really hard for me to deal with. The fire did not damage the structure of the house but the smoke did a lot of damage. It is going to take weeks to clean and recover all the STUFF. But everyone...Cora, Abby, Jeanne, John, Joey, Grandma, Grandpa and our dog Tank were all safe and got out of the house safely.
So now we are all living in the Staybridge Suites in Corning. It is beautiful! The girls, Anthony and I have our own suite!!!! There is a courtyard and pool and hot tub and a laundry room. We also get breakfast in the morning! So God has truly provided for us and protected us. In the meantime...We are trusting in Him...relying on Him for strength and peace to get through every day. Stay posted for more updates...

Life at Victory...

2007-09-28T14:36:00.000-07:00

It has been awhile since our last blog....We are now in our fourth month at VHWC. We are still living with Anthony's family and that has been interesting. The girls have been amazing! They have done so well through this transition. Better than Anthony and I. Life has been nothing but a whirlwind since we moved back to NY. At times I ask God what He was thinking by calling us back home...but I have been just trusting in His promises. It is so amazing to be back where we grew up and see how God has been working in everyone's lives!

We are moving!

2007-05-29T07:28:00.000-07:00

We accepted a youth ministry position at Victory Highway Wesleyan church in Painted Post, New York. Its about fifteen minutes from where I grew up. Pretty crazy. Joy and I are really excited about this new opportunity. We immediately fell in love with the people when we interviewed. Its a great church with an incredible staff. You can check it out if you want at www.victoryhighway.com We will be closing on our house on Wednesday and moving on June 5th or 6th. Thanks for all those who were praying for us!

Update

2007-04-19T12:51:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to give everyone an update. We are in the preocess of selling our home right now. We have accepted an offer and are planning to close in May. We are planning to move in June and have no clue where we are going! Here are some pics of our family to check out. We will send updates as things progress. We appreciate your prayers.

A Night To Remember

2007-03-28T11:20:00.002-07:00

The day before valentines day, I took Joy up to a nice restaurant and surprised her with tickets to a Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman, Louie Giglio concert. When we got there, it was postponed because of the weather. They rescheduled it for March 25th. After many days of anticipation we went and were blown away. I had not seen Chris Tomlin lead worship since the C3 in Charlotte (WY convention). This time he was even better. Plus Matt Redman was there. They did many songs together. It was incredible. I could also listen to Louie speak all day. We left very encouraged and very blessed to experience a "worship event" like this. It was also cool to see Chris dancing around the stage while Matt Redman sang. He is a wee little man.

The Shaft... I think So

2007-03-13T05:58:00.000-07:00

I now have a beef with the NCAA selection committee. I am sure their job is not easy because there are so many great teams out there, but what the heck? Syracuse University (22-10) did not get in to the tournament. Even though they beat Georgetown (72-58), Marquette (70-58), and Villanova (75-64), I guess it just wasn't good enough. This year I will be filling my brackets out with a little less joy in my heart.

Crap...

2007-03-01T12:04:00.000-08:00

Someone stole my Sony Mini-DV Handy cam and my Sony 5.1 Mp Cybershot from my office. It had some great footage and pics of my kids on it too. Not a good day. Stupid theives...

More Changes...

2007-03-01T11:39:00.000-08:00

After being at Good Shepherd Wesleyan Church for a little over a year as their students ministries pastor we made the tough decision to resign. God had been speaking to Joy and I for some time about this decision. I am a pastor who truly beleives in longevity, especially in youth ministry. So why leave you ask? That part gets pretty comlicated. We both have come to the conclusion that it was no accident we came here. We have built some great relationships here and its going to be very hard to leave.
As I have heard thousands of times before, ministry is never easy. I am not calling for my own pity party but as youth ministers we are underpaid, overwokred, unappreciated, and expendable. With that said, our job is still worth it. I must give a shout out to all my freinds who are in youth ministry. Keep on keepin on!
So whats next? I have considered leaving youth ministry, but I probably won't. I simply love teenagers and the privledge to make a difference in their lives. I am in no rush this time around for our next ministry location. We will be leaving Jackson in June. We have just put our house up for sale that we bought last July. I try not to worry about it. God's will take care of it all...
Tony

Dare 2 Share Gameday

2007-02-06T12:49:00.000-08:00

This past weekend Joy and I took 2 students to Dare 2 Share Gameday youth conference. Last year they put on an incredible conf. They didnt let me down this year either. It was even better. One of my students accepted Christ for the first time. Starfield led worship and Greg Steir delivered some pretty powerful and challenging messages in front of 5000+ stuendents. Joy and I were both challenged to take advantage of the opportunities that God gives us to share our faith. If you are a youth pastor I would encourage you to go to this event next year. You will not be dissapointed! (The last clip is of Jeremy Camp, when we went to Winterjam)

Before and After

2007-02-01T12:57:00.000-08:00

3 Weeks ago Abby broke her leg falling off the bunk-bed. It was not a fun day. She did learn how to walk and run with her cast pretty quickly. She had X-Rays yesterday showing that her bone was almost completely healed with a healthy calous growing over the break. She is very excited to have her "band aid" off, but is still a little hesitant to walk on it now. Oh and her leg smelled pretty nice when the cast came off.

Before

After

Sledding

2007-01-25T09:22:00.000-08:00

We have a perfect hill in our backyard for sledding. The only problem is that the house is at the bottom of the hill...

2007-01-25T09:09:00.001-08:00

It has finally snowed here in southern Ohio. We recieved three inches, enough to close down the whole town for a day. Pretty funny. The girls couldnt have been more excited about the white stuff. Tank, our dog, went insane in the snow. It was a great weekend! It was also nice to have that extra day off from work to spend time with family. The highlight of the day was the giant snowman. I had not built a snowman like that since I was 10 years old with my older brother. I about slipped a disk trying to get the middle on top of the "butt" of the snowman, but it was worth it. This baby aint melting till May!!!

Where is winter?!?!?

2007-01-15T05:15:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it has been almost a year since the last ime I posted! I hate saying I am just to busy....but unfortunately that is life. I (joy) am now teaching two grades, 5th and 6th, and trying to be a mom and wife. Now we have added a new member to the family...TANK. He is so much fun but so much work. Anyone who has had to raise a puppy will know what I am talking about. I get so frustrated with him! BUT, he is cute as you can see from the picture. I am sitting here in my classroom doing some lesson planning and I keeping looking out the window just wishing for some snow! The weather is so crazy! I should probably get to work.

Visiting IWU

2006-11-03T14:02:00.000-08:00

Took some students to Indiana Wesleyan University this past weekend. If you are alumni, all I have to say to you is wow! The campus is totally different! I cant believe it. I want to go back for 4 more years...well maybe not. But I will post some pics soon.

Youth Xplosion

2006-09-29T08:25:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday we held an area Youth Xplosion involving over 10 different churches from other denominations. There were over 350 teens there with close to 450 total! Whats even better is that 39 teens came to Christ for the first time! We had the band Me in Motion lead worship and do a concert and Tim Byrne, a professional free-style skater, gave the message. The event was held at the Jackson YMCA. Suposedly this was the biggest youth event ever held in Jackson. What a night! I am glad its over.

Its Been A While...

2006-09-29T08:15:00.000-07:00

Well, we havent blogged in quite a while. Mainly due to laziness and busy schedules, but also because we no longer have internet at our house. So if any of you read this from time to time, which I doubt, but if you do, leave me a comment! Thanks!

2006-03-09T05:45:00.000-08:00

Here's the thing...While Cora is at pre-school and
day care I (joy) am home with Abby. From these pictures you probably think...Oh she is so cute and sweet...but don't let her deceive you. Our little Abby has turned into quite the trouble maker. She has come to love dumping opened bags of things on purpose, spraying herself with windex, throwing things in the toilet and bathtub and aggervating her sister. This is all new for me because Cora was a good toddler! So you can usually find me inside out most days!

Skiing in Ohio

2006-03-06T16:26:00.000-08:00

Well I really miss the Pocono Mountains in North-EasternPennsylvania, but we still had a lot of fun. I took the youth group up to Mad River Mountain to do a little snowboarding and skiing. I think it is a man-mad mountain. No broken bones, so that was a plus. I was really excited to see Joy on skis for the first time since the 7th grade! Since then she has always carried this fear of falling of the ski lift when it was time to get off. Well she did great and had a blast! It was fun finally having her out there on the slopes after all these years. Had a good time playing a little Euchre in the lodge too. Overall a great weekend.

A New Home

2006-02-14T16:59:00.000-08:00

We just made one of the biggest financial decisions of our lives up to this point. We bought our first home! It is pretty scary and exciting at the same time. I never thought I would be buying a home in the middle of Ohio! We will soon be able to be offically deemed "homeowners". Pretty sweet. Joy has already redesigend the whole home thanks to IKEA. Too bad the the closest one is over 4 hours away, unlike Jersey. We have learned quite a bit about mortgages, insurance, credit scores, deeds, etc. It has been crazy, but well worth it. God has def. blessed us!
We will post more pics when we move in.

Just the day to day...

2006-02-03T12:27:00.000-08:00

It's the day to day moments with my girls I begin to grasp the enormous responsibility of being a mom. Abby since she was a little baby has been getting ear infections. Now it is a four to five week routine of doctor's visits, andtibiotics and absolutely no sleep. We had to make the decision to have tubs put in her ears. Even though this is the easiest surgery I was really nervous about going through with it. She is the sweetest baby! I don't think she has felt good her whole first year of her life. I pray that her little ears heal. For those of you haven't met Abby yet she is an amazing little girl!

3 Season Ant Live!

2006-02-01T18:04:00.000-08:00

This was our first big event since I have been here and all things considered, it went well. We had over 60 students and 120 all together. TSA did a great job getting them pumped and leading the group in worship. It was great hagning out with them a little bit. I highly reccomend them for any youth event, camp, or whatever.

2006-01-17T16:21:00.000-08:00

So...I know we already posted something recent but I just can't resist sharing these with you all. Anthony is usually the one posting things. But after reading some of the other blog's out there, I felt I needed to share the joy in my life. I don't have anything profound to say except for....I have found more joy and fulfillment in raising my two amazing girls than anything else. There are those moments I wonder why I wanted to be a mom but as you can see those thoughts are simply forgotten...There is so much joy in this house!

(joy)

2006-01-16T14:52:00.000-08:00

Thought that this was a cute picture of our youngest, Abigail. She is a hilarious baby. her personality makes us laugh.

2006-01-16T14:34:00.000-08:00

As of late I have been hooked on Donald millers books. Maybe because they are really easy to read. They really get you thinking about what you beleive in as a Christian. One thing that I have been thinking a lot about lately that he mentions often in his book is materilism. Doing with out is not an easy thing to do in this world today. Joy and I have never been incredibly responsible with our money, we both like to spend. I don't know, just something to think about. Even though this author is a little nuts, and some theolgy is a little off, I highly reccomend his stuff. He is speaking in Columbus at Cedarville Bible college sometime in March. I was thinking about going.

Presidential Upgrade...

2006-01-10T19:02:00.000-08:00

The night of the first rally at Logos5, gifts were handed out to youth pastors who went through some hard times over the past year. To our surprise, we won the grand prize! It was a pretty emotional moment for Joy and I. They put us up in the presidential room. It was crazy! We had a party with close to 40 teenagers in our room the last night. We had a lot of quality time together too! This def. made the convention even more memorable.

Logos5 Boston, MS

2006-01-10T18:20:00.000-08:00

Boston was an unforgetable event. It was weird going to a Wesleyan Youth convention without a youth group. There were moments were I wished I had a group to be with, but at the same time, it was nice having that freedom and to spend time with old friends and with Joy. This was one of the best conventions I have been to. Three Season Ant exceeded expectations and the speakers delivered clear and challenging messages. Joy and I accepted the challenge to read through the entire Bible for a year. I just hope that commitment doesn't fall apart in the middle of February! It was good to see our old youth group. We had a great time together, especially partying in the Pres. sweet. I had the opportunity to work under John Wood and Kevin Beers (two great guys). I was the stage manager for the event which basically meant that I messed around and cracked jokes on the headset the whole time. I also thought it was cool that pretty much my whole family was at this event. Three of my brothers, my sister, brother-in-law, and both my parents. We all had a alot of fun and are looking foward to Orlando 07!

First day of school...

2006-01-10T16:42:00.000-08:00

Cora started her first day of pre-school last Wednesday. It has now been a week and she is still so excited to go! I don't think that will be the case when she is 15...but for now Anthony and I are enjoying her enthusiasm. She now prays all by herself for dinner and to show you how sentimental I can be...when she did it for the first time....I cried. It is an indescribable feeling when your own child talks to God in their own way...Well...I will leave you with that.