Go To Sleep Little Baby... (Continued)

Well, honestly, I have been a little stressed about the sleeping situation with baby boy, but wasn't I pleasantly surprised when I woke up at a quarter after eight (!) this morning after having last fed him at 12:30. I don't know why I was stressing. He's always been a night owl.

I think where Theona would sleep her longer stretch first, then wake to eat every four hours, he settles in for his longer stretch later in the night. He did sleep in his crib last night, which I think helped him sleep really well. Yay.

So, problem solved. Why was I stressing?! I should know they're all different; I can't expect him to be just like Sis.

Thank you Lord for clearing things up for me.

Go To Sleep Little Baby...

I am so disappointed in myself. I have totally messed up my baby boy's sleep habits. And I knew better. Our vacations, move, then trip back to OR certainly didn't help, but what can I do now? I kept him out of his own bed for over a month, though I tried to keep a similar routine, I was very generous with night time feedings that probably weren't as necessary for nourishment as they were for comfort (uh, I was probably too concerned about the comfort of my parents and sister as I was staying in their homes and I didn't want to disturb them with midnight fussing.) He's gone from sleeping an eight hour stretch at night to waking and wanting to nurse every four hours.

I just feel so guilty. This is totally my fault. My mistake. And I don't see a way out of it. I know that's not realistic. It will take work at this point, but I am willing to work. I know it will be in the best interest of my babe to help him get back into a better sleep pattern.

I've been praying for wisdom. How can I help him adjust to sleeping through the night? I know he can. I just don't want this to be torture or traumatizing (for any involved).

The plan now is:
* He is sleeping in his crib! He was still sleeping in my room, his own space, but my room (bad habits, I think, for both of us).
* I am going to encourage a six hour stretch of sleep by putting him back to sleep if he wakes before time to eat. I think this should work well for him because I know he can go that stretch without nursing.
* I am going to PRAY that God will give me wisdom and help him sleep well!

After we establish this we'll make a next step. Pray for me!

And if anyone has any encouragement or suggestions I'd welcome it.

Tiny Sugary Christmas Trees

I was just looking around at some of the most creative ideas for decorating and such. Guess what I found...

This brilliant momma who used tiny sugary Christmas trees to top cupcakes!

What a great idea! But more important than stealing this fabulous idea, I should remember to pray and ask God to give me a great idea when I need it.

Psst...

I miss my friends.

"Nothing makes the earth seem so spacious as to have friends at a distance; they make the latitudes and longitudes."
~Henry David Thoreau

I almost put this video up, but it was too sad.

a Hundred

We've reached 100. I've written one hundred blog posts. I'm hoping (maybe you are too) that it just gets better from here, and may I serve the Lord in all things bloggy!

So, I guess I've officially started blogging!

Graham Flour

I've been using graham flour in my bread. I like it. I wasn't sure what was different about it when I bought it, I just saw it was whole wheat, but I discovered that it has a great texture.

I used this recipe for french bread, a favorite, and substituted 1 cup of my new graham flour. I know there are heartier (I guess...more stuff and nutrients = heartier??) breads out there, but this is a great french bread and since it doesn't have milk or fat or sugar, it really lasts.

It seems to last longer anyway...when we don't scarf it all down 'cause it's just so delicious!

Yeah, I don't really know what I'm talking about. I'm still just learning the bread making thing, but this recipe sure is a keeper.

Mmm....

My New Christmas Jello a.k.a. 1-2-3 Jell-O

At many homes, I think, some sort of a Jello salad is custom for holiday dinners. Ours is no different.

Growing up, my mom would always make a very interesting one with lemon jello, grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and mini marshmallows. I really can't quite take this one, but it just isn't Thanksgiving at my moms house without it, and pretty often it appears again for Christmas dinner. Good thing the Girlie loves it.

Now I'm not anti-Jello. I do love a sweet treat in my holiday dinners. There is a blueberry salad I just love that we make sometimes, but this year I discovered the recipe to my all time favorite Jello. 1-2-3 Jello! (It may actually be called Jell-O 1-2-3)

I remember it from when I was younger. I think there was a commercial for it, but I haven't seen anyone make it now in years. I guess some other people really miss it, too. While looking for the recipe, I found a petition to "Bring back Jello 1-2-3". Turns out it's pretty easy to make yourself. Here is a recipe I found.

You need:
3/4 cup boiling water
1 package Jello, any flavor (4 serving size)
1/2 cup cold water
Ice cubes
1/2 cup thawed Cool Whip (I think Dream Whip is what was called for in the original, but I used whip topping)

Directions:
*Pour boiling water into blender. Add Jello. Cover and blend at low speed until Jello is completely dissolved, about 30 seconds.
*Combine cold water and ice cubes to make 1 1/4 cups. Add to Jello and stir until ice is partially melted.
*Then add whipped topping; blend at high speed for 30 seconds to a minute.
*Pour into dessert glasses. Chill about 30 minutes. Dessert layers as it chills.

I've had more success with the 3 layers when I blend it a little longer. The first time I made it I ended up with 2-3 Jello. I really like the THREE layers better, and I think you will too. So, blend a little longer.

Maybe we can figure out some Father, Son, Holy Spirit analogy for it... Hmm. Trinity Jello. It could work.

"'Twas the Night Before..."

Now, I know Jesus wasn't born on December 25th, but I was just thinking about the night before our Savior's birth.

Having two young kids, I remember the bit of excited nervousness the day before a baby is born. How I began to sense things were changing. The body starts really getting ready for birth, and signaling momma to prepare.

I imagine the feelings of urgency in finding a safe place to relax. Could Mary have been content with a stable for her birth? I wonder how much she knew about what to expect and if she was scared, being young and this being a first experience, (not to mention the obvious). I wonder, how was her labor?

When my son was born, my husband and I took the opportunity to worship the Lord. We sang and spoke praise to him during labor. It was incredible. Did she exalt the Father while making it through the difficult parts?

All this just makes me think about the wonder of having a baby, how we all (I think) have that "Oh, wow, IT'S A BABY!" experience. I bet she was amazed to see that little baby, and what wonder she must have had at Who her baby was.

I imagine her seeing her little baby and knowing he was just the most beautiful baby EVER. The word tells us in prophecy "he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, [there is] no beauty that we should desire him." Isaiah 53:2. In that sense he was just a newborn, red and wrinkly, but you know how a momma sees her baby.


Lord, will you teach me to approach you with awe and wonder this season, and even this year? Reveal Yourself to me. Amaze me with how beautiful You are. Renew a sense of evangelism. Teach me to burst with desire to share your Good News. Thank you, Lord for being our reason to celebrate!

Winter fun

Go here to make a virtual snowflake.

It's a lot of fun, but take this little note of caution: Don't waste too much time!

Have fun!

Too True Haiku

Shannon over at Rocks in My Dryer was hosting a Haiku contest. I found a favorite, and I wish I would have seen it sooner and given my imput:

By Jane:

Icy temps make me
wish the baby's cold hands were
reaching for bottles.

This has been the Haiku OF MY LIFE lately.
Brrr...

Good Friends

Theona misses her buddy Hunter. We miss him, too. And we miss his family... Ahh, good friends.

Do I expect Him?

I was just thinking, do I really expect my Lord to return at any time? I should be saying, "Yes, my Lord must be coming this year, and if not, definitely next year." Instead, I was already thinking the chance was past.

I realized the other day I would be prone to say, "Well, I guess he's not coming this year..." Why oh why? This year is not over yet. God's hope toward me is long suffering, yet my hope toward the soon return of Jesus for His bride wavers?! It shouldn't.

I am adjusting my view to expect my Lord's soon return. EVEN THIS YEAR. Even five short days before Christmas. And may He find me faithful when He comes.

Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus.

For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.
1 Corinthians 2:2

CCOKC

That's Calvary Chapel Oklahoma City. Went there tonight. I loved it. I really liked the way the pastor taught. And may I just say, I have never enjoyed such anointed worship leading from a CD and lady singing?! It was great.

I don't have too much to say about it other than that. We had cookies and hot chocolate and birthday cake for the pastor's wife afterwards. It was a good time to fellowship.

Oh, and the girlie had a great time! Yay.

I'm baa-aaack

It is so good to be home! Really, it is really great to be home.

I was just thinking about the whole silly expression, "A family makes a house a home." Well, in our case, A family makes an apartment a home... I guess.

It was so funny to get back to this little place that we're barely settled into and I really don't like that much and just be so glad to be back. I was immediately annoyed at how awkwardly large our couches are for our living room, and there are some accents in this place that really don't suit it well.

Anyway, despite those things I am home. I am so happy to be here with my family. It was so sweet to see the girlie so ecstatic to greet her Papa, and so happy to sleep in her own bed.

On the subject of blogging, Yay! I'm back. It was hard to access this site while away, and just really inconvenient to have time and space to blog.

Things went well on our trip, and my mom is doing pretty well since starting chemo on the last Thursday I was there. She hasn't been sick at all, just a little tired and achy. I'm thankful for that.

Ah, off to sleep in my own bed.

Two Kids, Good Trip, Minimal Crying

Well, I made it. I'm quite impressed with my girlie. She traveled so well! She sat in her seat and buckled up. She resisted a little on the second trip, but it really went so well, and she was happy to see baby Finlee and Aunt Kimbers...and Grandma and Grandpa. It makes me a little sad that we live so far away, but I'm glad we've been able to visit so much this year.

I'm really glad my mom is doing so well. She's recovering so quickly from the surgery. I know so many people have been praying for her and she's been getting good rest. Hopefully I'll be able to help these next two weeks.

The Wallpaper

U-G-L-Y !!

I did not like the wall paper that was in my new apartment's bathroom when moved in. I pretty much hated it, which I realize is quite a strong feeling to have towards wallpaper. I think it was just a case of the straw that broke the camel's back. I had so much going on: moving with two little ones, missing friends, just getting back from vacation, and just surviving daily life in a new place (with two little ones!), not to mention my mom being diagnosed with breast cancer and figuring how and when I was going back to OR. I was feeling a little overwhelmed and ugly wall paper was something I just could not handle.

So, I'd post a picture if I had one, but I'm glad I don't since thinking wallpaper is ugly is pretty subjective and I wouldn't want to offend anyone. Anyway, we had the nicest maintenance man come take the wallpaper down and re-texture the walls. I learned something, too. He said he usually puts a pie tin of vinegar in the room to help with the paint fume-y smell. Well, I had heard putting a half an onion in the room would absorb to fumes and paint smell. I did that. It turned out pretty funny, actually; our bathroom smelled soooo strongly of onion, but not paint, so I guess it was a success...

It seems like all I've been able to do lately is update, update, update. I couldn't read. I couldn't write. I was really feeling a little frazzled. I'm sure you can understand... I guess I was really a little scared that if I didn't document I'd forget. Maybe I will. Not a big deal. I don't need to remember every detail, thought and feeling. If the Lord brings this around to where I can minister to someone because of my experience, I'm sure he'll bring to mind the details I need.

I had an extremely productive day today. That's always refreshing. After breakfast I worked on packing for Monday (By the way, I'm leaving for Oregon on Monday. The kids and I will stay for two weeks!) I worked on my room, which is ALMOST unpacked. (We've been in a state of almost unpacked for a week, and I'm afraid it's about to drive the husband nuts.) I made a yummy lunch of mashed potatoes and leftover turkey soup. It was sooo yummy. The soup had homemade noodles in it. I think that's gonna have to become a regular menu item. I remember my mom making those noodles with beef when I was little... I'm gonna have to try that. I did FOUR loads of laundry, and three are folded and put away (wow).

It feels good to be productive. I think we're gonna take the evening easy. Papa is at work, the kids and I will just play and hang out. Maybe I'll through in some pizza dough real quick. There's a new recipe I've been wanting to try.

My favorite Winter Commercial

I just saw that commercial for Campbell's soup where the little boy comes in as a snowman and eats chicken noodle soup and the snowman melts away. I remember watching it as a kid and being so amazed by the snow. I lived where it hadn't snowed in 100 years, so the whole snow thing was quite a novelty.

Anyway, I love that comercial. I hope they have it on for many more years.

My Growin' Girl

My girl is just getting so big. She has all kind of new things to say (And she's getting a little sassy! We're working on that). Most of all her new things are so fun, and she really loves being a big sister.

The one big problem we just can't figure out is wake up time. She's just so grumpy after she wakes up. She gets up okay, has a snack, and then gets all cry-y, whiney, grumpy. I think I need to have a better wake up activity. I wish we could go outside an play after naps, but the weather hasn't been very nice lately. I guess we're gonna have to think up some wake up activity that suits everyone. Any ideas?

Chemo

So, my mom had the appointment about treatment with the oncologist today. He said she has a 40% recurrence rate over the next five years. He suggested chemotherapy and hormone therapy to reduce that percentage. I guess it's four months of chemo and then hormone therapy. Basically it'll take a year to be back to normal from what she said.

Good news is that the treatment will lower the chance of recurrence to, like, 16% I think she said. That's better. I'm just nervous about what chemo does to a body. I have my own opinions, but I guess she'll have to make her own choices.

I'm still at that point of I just don't know what to think or say.

Bye Teresa

I took Teresa to the airport today. We were out the door just after 5:00 am. I was a little worried that the girlie would be upset or confused about her sudden disappearance. All day Theona has been asking, "Where's TT?" and "TT's at home?" We surely will miss her. She was such a huge help.

Scars

My mom went to the doctor today and got the bandages off and the drainage tubes out today. She seems to feel good and be so hopeful. I'm glad.

She said the scar wasn't bad. She said it was like my sister's c-section scar. I think she was really worried it would be all gory and gross. I'm glad again that everything seems to be going well.

No Radiation

My mom got great news today. The lab results are back and they are good! The surrounding tissue is clear and the systemic lymph node was clear. That translates, it hasn't spread and radiation isn't necessary.

I'm glad that we're getting some good news. It's kind of refreshing.

Calvary Chapel Norman

We went to the Calvary Chapel here in town today. I liked it. I don't know yet if it's where we're staying. I just want to be really commited to continuing to pray for the Lord to lead in this. I want to be in the right place, not just what's easy or convienient.

The people were nice, but there weren't very many people there. I'm sure because tomorrow is Thanksgiving. The pastor wasn't even there. He was on vacation in Hawaii. What a treat.

Surgery

My mom had a double mastectomy today. She's all drugged up still, and she's really quite goofy. While I was on the phone with her she kept just falling asleep. She'd say something, and before I could reply she was out. Weird. (I know it's probably normal from anaesthesia, but it was still weird.)

When we were talking she said something like, "Orange and yellow make red. No! Red and orange make YELLOW!" It was really strange. She wasn't herself at all. Hopefully she'll be feeling better tomorrow.

He surgeon said it went sooo well. I'm glad to hear that, but I'm still really nervous about everything. I'm just in such a surreal place with all this, being so far away. I guess I'll be going back to visit in a couple weeks.

We're OK

So, we're Okies now (however temporarily). My husband got a job transfer, and we took it. We had been in Omaha for just a year and a half, and it was so hard to leave. I'm excited about this new adventure, though. It'll be fun.

We left at 4 am, and all went well. We had an easy drive. We really made excellent time. Now we have a new little place. Well the living room is soooo little. I don't quite know how that's gonna work out, but the rest of the apartment is really quite spacious, and we have a wonderful little patio with a gate that opens into a grassy back yard area. It's nice.

We brought a friend with us for a week. Teresa came to help tag team me with the kids.

Oklahoma isn't really a place I would have expected to live, but "a man plans his way, but the Lord directs his path". I trust that God is leading. I'm looking forward to getting settled here, and making some friends. We'll see.

Calvary Chapel Corvallis

Okay, I hope no one gets the wrong idea about this post, but here goes.

We went to Calvary Chapel Corvallis tonight. I really wanted to go to church tonight, but of course I ended up sitting in the nursery. I am in such a mood. Anyway, it was okay, and I saw a boy I went to high school. The people were nice, and the worship was really cool. It was a baby grand and a keyboard and a girl on djembe. I was only in for a couple songs.

The silly thing was when we got there they didn't want me to go into the sanctuary with the kids. They directed us to a "family room" I was quite annoyed. It had a silly ol' tv on the wall, and the girlie just kept crying "I want church. I want church." I took her down to the nursery and though I had a good time I would have liked to go to church.

The one thing that I was just terribly impressed with was the building. They had just moved into their brand new building. It's up on a hill and the whole front is glass. there's a long foyer the length of the building, and huge, beautifully finished barn doors that open to the Sanctuary. It is really a beautiful building. The whole lower floor is the education wing (like, sunday school class rooms and such). It's really nice, and the church seems to have grown since I was there last; it should suit them nicely.

Oh, I found some pictures. This is kind of how it looked when we went for Wednesday evening service. And here is a picture where you can kind of see the doors.

Well, that's about it. If you're ever in Corvallis, OR...

Happy Thanksgiving

My mom had planned for all of us to celebrate Thanksgiving early since we would all be there. It was fun. My Aunt and Uncle came. My cousin, her husband and son came, it was at my sister's house. It was a really great idea, and a good distraction.

We all had a good time and we ended up playing the Wii afterwards. We made characters for everyone, even my parents. We really had a good time.

Cancer

You know, it's really sureal to think my mom has cancer. That was the news from the doctor. Bi-lateral breast cancer. That means it's in both sides. It's two different cancers from what I understand. One is early, one is a later stage. I guess they'll find out more about that later, but from the biopsy I guess it's pretty bad serious yucky ...what do I say. Well, it isn't good.

I don't really know what to even think about all this. That's all that just keeps going through my head. I don't know what to say. I don't know what to do. I don't know what to THINK. That's where I am. I just don't even know...

Good Bye, Cali. Hello, Oregon!

Well, the vacation is half over, and we still have a week left! I can't believe we are taking such a long vacation. We had a pretty good week, and ran around seeing lots of old friends. It was certainly fun seeing familiar faces and showing off my little ones. No one had seen Jecoa yet, and it sure was special to have everyone meet him.

I'm a little nervous about tomorrow. So, my mom got a mammogram last week. They found a couple questionable spots and did a biopsy, she'll hear back from her doctor today or tomorrow. I hate getting all swept away with feelings and emotions, so I'm trying to just take it easy and wait for the news.

I'm also so excited to see my new little niece. She looks so much like my sister, I can hardly wait to see her in person.

"I want Baseball"

So, I'm feeling much better, and good thing because Theona wakes up at, like, 6:00am saying "I want baseball". Isaito(her cousin who is just 9 mos older than her) got a little tee-ball set, and Theona just loves it.

She's so cute, she'll get it all set up then just barely tap the ball and get all excited when it fall down, then chase it and do it all again. I think we might just have to think about getting her one for Christmas or birthday.

It's been great to have so much space to play outside, and other kids to play with, but their whole backyard is dirt, so every day is a very dirty day. We should have brought more old play clothes to get dirty in. This has been kind of a weird visit, but a good one so far.

Happy Birthday Little Sis

My baby sis is 21 today. Unbelievable.

Well, Happy Birthday, Kimberlee.

Strep Throat

I think I might have strep throat. I'm not feeling good at all. I have a terribly sore throat. I can hardly swallow, and I'm so sad to miss out on my mother-in-law's great cooking. I'm also worried about taking germs to the new baby, Finlee, who we will see next week. I guess I'll see about getting on an anti-biotic. I want to get well so I can enjoy our vacation.

Vacation in So Cal

We arrived in California, and it's nice to see everyone, but I'm always surprised to see how dirty it is here. That and the traffic are a couple reasons I'm glad not to live here anymore.

I'm not feeling so great, maybe I got sick on the plane.

Fresh Bread

I made a loaf of bread today.
I hadn't sliced it yet.
Abe just got home and was hungry.
Now he is sitting across from the boy (who is still awake), eating a sandwich on the most wonderful sandwich-y textured bread.
This is a good day.

Frugal Friday-Frugal Candy

I'm a girl who loves chocolate. I'd say it's my favorite treat.

And, while on the subject of treats, I'm not a fan of halloween. I don't think there's much use in celebrating a "holiday" that glorifies evil when I want to teach my children to dwell on whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute.... I wouldn't say halloween is this.

It doesn't even make sense to me that so many nice, christian families would celebrate something so against God. The devil has certainly done his job in making this no big deal, so that many families who would never take part in demonic activities go along with this saying it is just fun. I just don't think it's as simple as that.

Anyway, enough about that.

My point here is, Hooray for after halloween candy sales. I won't go stock up, I'll just buy a package and stick it in the fridge, and you bet I'll be happy about my fifty cent bag of kisses...or whatever.

Faith Like a Child - LINK

Now, I found a blog to read! I was checking out Works for me Wednesday over at Rocks in My Dryer and I came across such a beautiful post.

It is soooo worth checking out. Just a beautiful post that I am beginning to relate to.

Enjoy.

Life

I kind of think it should say "*live* the one you got".
By the way, I don't know what/where this is from.

Menu Plan Monday

Well, getting ready to go on vacation and move, I'm not really going grocery shopping. I'll get some veggies and fruit, but other than that we'll use what we have. I do have some pork, a roast, and fish in the freezer; I'm not a huge fish fan, so I'll have to get a little creative with that.

M:
b- cereal- cheerios
l- ham and cheese shells
d- taco pizza

T:
b- mini wheats
l- cheeseburgers
d- sopapillas, beans, green chile, cilantro rice & rice crispy treats

W:
b-sausage and egg burritos
l- fried rice with Whiting and veggies
d- agape meal at church: take something with the small roast.

Th:
b- chilequillas
l- pork chops, mashed potatoes, carrots
d- bean burritos

F:
b- funnel cake and fresh fruit
l- fish and chips, raw veggies
d- leftovers

One-Year-Olds Are Fun

One year olds are funny.

Tonight I was putting my sweet little girlie to bed, and she just kept getting up.

First, I put her down pretty quick because the baby started crying and I wanted to go get him. Well, it was too quick for her, and she started crying, too. So, as soon as the baby was settled I hurried back in there, and she had thrown everything out of her bed. Yes. I mean everything. Blanket, pillow, pacifier and jammies. Yeah, Jamies! She unzipped her blanket sleeper, took it off, and threw it out of her bed--something she's never done before.

I got her back down, but not too much time passed before she cried out in a way that gets a mommy running for her baby. I thought she got scared or had a dream or something. No, I guess she just wanted her stuff back. Once again she had thrown out her blanket, pillow, paci, and jammies. Hmmm... I asked, "What's wrong?" and she answered, "Tummy hurts. I sick. Poo-poo." I picked her up and carried her out to the kitchen. Bedtime never takes this long, and I was starting to wonder if she's really not feeling well. I thought maybe she needed to go potty, so I sat down with her on my lap, and gave her a prune. Now the chit-chatting begins. She starts naming the parts of my face: "Eye. Nose. Mouth. Hair." Then she starts asking about all her friends, naming them one by one and asking "night-night?" I tell her "Yes, he's night-night." "Yes, she's night-night". Then she asks if I'm sitting in a chair and points out that I'm wearing a shirt. Now, at this point she is being so cute and charming, but I'm starting to realize that she has just totally worked the system.

I picked her up, told her it's time for bed and we went back to the rocking chair. This time I decided maybe she was too hot, so I left her jammie off. We rocked for a song then I put her back in bed. Back out in the living room I was sure she was settled. I had picked up toys and sat down to nurse the baby. Then I heard her fussing again. What. Is. Up? So, I got the baby settled and went back again. This time as soon as I entered the room I hear "diaper? diaper? diaper?" Yes. She's standing there totally nak*d. She had thrown out the blanket, pillow, paci, and diaper. Hmm.

So, I got her out, told her, "You have to keep your diaper on, okay?" "ok" she answered. I got her dressed, diaper, jammies and all, and put her bed back together and put her back down. This time it stuck.

I almost don't mind bedtime taking two hours when she's being so goofy and totally cute. (...I said ALMOST.) And she's just getting so big. I don't want to forget this.

Wow. Pretty soon I'm gonna be saying TWO year olds are funny....

It is Now Official

We're moving. We will pack this next week, go on vacation, then come back, load up the truck and leave on November 20th. I can hardly believe it. I'm gonna miss everyone. And I'm really gonna miss church. I love our church here. Hmm. I'm a little sad.

All Night Long

The baby boy was up ALL. NIGHT LONG. We have never had such a bad night.

I got a total of TWO and A HALF hours of sleep.

Total. Not consecutive. One hour from 9 to 10, and one and a half hours from 3:30 to 5.

It was a long night.

I feel pretty bad. He has really bad gas. He's the stinkiest little breastfed baby I've ever seen...or smelled. I think this is because I ate a could eggrolls the other day. What was I thinking? I'm swearing off eggrolls. Til he's much bigger, anyway.

I'm so tired. Gotta make it through today and Papa will be home tonight.

"Owie's ok"

Okay, kind of an embarrassing story, but here it is:

Just a minute ago my daughter was sitting on my lap and I noticed a little pimple blemish on my chest. I paused and poked at it inspected it, and my girlie asked "It's a owie?" and I said "Yeah, a little owie" she looked at it then looked up at me and said in her most compassionate 20-month-old way, "Yeah, it's ok." She then pointed out a scratch on her arm and said "Owie's ok."

What a sweetie.

Menu Plan Monday (on our own for a few days)

Well, Papa's going to Texas for a work confrence this week. He is leaving today and coming back Thursday evening. We are definately going to miss him, and I'm sure we will stick to our menu plan. We Need Simplicity! So, here goes:

Monday:
B- Pears, Bacon
L- Tuna/veggie Tostadas
D- Baked Potato (with leftover bacon, cheese, and who knows what else.)

Tuesday:
B- Sausage
L- Ramen, crackers, cucumber slices
D- Chicken, potato and cheese enchilada, refried beans and rice w/ veggies

Wednesday:
B- Cereal
L- Chilequillas
D- Agape Meal at church

Thursday:
B- French Toast
L- Grilled Turkey and Cheese, and carrots
D- Pizza w/ ham, peppers and pineapple

Friday:
B- Cereal
L- Fried Rice
D- Ribs, Papa's favorite Rice, veggies

We love Menu Plan Monday. Thank you Organizing Junkie Laura. For more great menu ideas or to join in th fun visit Menu Plan Monday.

Correct Me if I'm Wrong - linkity link

These are the funniest little blogs. I thought I'd post them in case anyone was interested, or just so I can remember where they are.

This one on quotation marks. Here's a bit of an explanation. You'll "love" it.

This one on the lOWERCASE L causing confusion by being placed where a capitol belongs.

Here's a little something for those of you who are bugged by apostrophe abuse.

And one devoted to Grammar and Syntax errors which I'm sure I make plenty of.

Just incase you need some guidance on correct punctuation here's a helpful little thing.

I hope I'm not the only one amused by this.

*UPDATED* What Moves Me?

We were offered a transfer with my husband's job again. His boss called yesterday afternoon, and said he's like to send us to Oklahoma City. Wow. Am I ready for another change already?

We have really gotten settled here the last year and a half. We LOVE our church. We've made wonderful friends. I just can't really imagine moving. I'm so into the adventure, though. My first inclination is to say "yes!", but I'm not just in it for the adventure. I need to follow my Lord.

A friend told us that back in the old days Pastor Chuck would say something to the effect of, "You'll move for a job, but will you move for ministry?" I know we can answer that a big Y-E-S. I know we're moving for a reason IF the Lord works it out. I know he's taking us to the next place.

It's hard to know sometimes what steps to take, but I know He's leading. Abe's gonna tell his boss that we have to take our vacation that is planned for two weeks from now, but we'd be willing to go after we get back if they're willing to hold the position. I guess that leaves an opportunity for God to shut the door or hold it open for us. We'll see.

* * *UPDATE* * * Abraham's boss said that's fine, they'll keep the position for him. So, I guess we're moving to Oklahoma.

Our Family, The Momma Job, and How Expensive are Kids, Anyway.

I am so blessed. I was just sitting back and thinking about how thankful I am that my husband and I have learned this early in our marriage: debt isn't for us. It's okay to be careful with our money. We have a running car (and it runs well with little up keep, though it is time for an oil change). We don't need that second car that sometimes we wish we had. We can do without some things, but make our choices so we can have a fun treat without it hurting us finacially.

You know, I'm so amazed by this because I don't think I ever expected it. I thought Two jobs, Two cars, Lots of debt, and strife over finances was just part of life. Well, the Lord has taught me it isn't. We are enjoying life with one job, one car, a little less money, but no real need. Our needs are definitely met! Even with two kids, and everyone talks about how expensive kids are. Well, that hasn't been my experience. We were given so much with the Girlie, and that was definitely a help. But over the last year and a half and adding another little one into the mix we haven't come across great expense. There are little things that add up, but we do the best we can, shopping sales and such, and really make it count when we have stuff to buy.

I'm so blessed, because this is what I always wanted. I wanted to stay home and raise kids, and know what they just learned, and teach them, and see every first, and meet their needs. I used to work in an infant/toddler center. I figured, if the parents had to work, I could give them the next best care possible. Well, I knew these kids. I knew what they were learning and what they were saying, but sadly not as well as someone could, as much as I tried. One sad thing about it was I saw so many firsts, and I won't remember them. I won't keep them written in my heart the way I keep my girlie's first words. I was called "Momma" so many times, and the kids didn't mean it. I learned that of course they would say this, I WAS doing the Momma job.

Anyway, I could not be more glad that my husband understands how important it is that we raise our kids, and not only supports, but almost insists, and I think a lot of the reason is because he loves me and knows this is what I want.

"Not that I am referring to being in need; for I have learned to be content with whatever I have. I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me." Philippians 4:11-13

Destination or Journey?

I'm not so interested in the destination. I know that. I absolutely know where I will end up. I'm concerned with the journey. How will I get there?

I heard something on the radio today. It was along the lines of: "The Church should be a lifeboat, not a cruise ship." To me this is simple and poignant. On a cruise, you leave from a dock, play with all your friends, do some fun activities, enjoy yourself, sleep, return to the dock. What else is there to do?

Upon leaving from a dock in a lifeboat you would be immediately busy, you would be looking for someone who needs help and you would help them. Then return to the dock with much celebration for those you had rescued.

This is important. We are called to live as on a lifeboat. We are told. "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost." (Matt 28:19)

I feel like in some ways I have slacked off on this. I use excuses like, "There are seasons. This is a season for me to serve my family." Honestly, I have to say, this is an EXCUSE. I need to reach out. Going to the grocery store could be an event filled with prayer and evangelism! Who will God put in my path that I should share His love with?

Today a man approached my car and asked for twenty-six cents. I gave him some change, and he went on his way. I realized that I missed a perfect opportunity to tell him that Jesus loves him. I started to go after him, but didn't catch up. I know it will be different next time.

I'm not called to cruise through life just enjoying my family. I am on a rescue mission. I want to point them to the one who will save.

MPM

I'm not going shopping, so it's a use what you have week, but looks like a good week to me!

Monday
B Cereal
L shells with butter, apple.
D Tacos de Papas, rice

Tuesday
B Bread and Jelly
L leftovers
D Beef Roast, rice, carrots, garden turnips

Wednesday
B Blueberry Pancakes
L BLTs
D Agape Meal at church - take sweet potato??

Thursday
B Cereal
L Salmon cakes (Didn't do this last week), White rice
D Beans, cheese, bread

Friday
B Potatoes and eggs
L Tuna Melts, tots
D Beans, cheese, tortillas

Funnel Cloud in Philomath?

I lived in a little tiny Oregon town that, as far as I know never gets tornados. Lots and LOTS of rain, but not tornados. We moved to Nebraska, and are fairly used to the idea of tornados now, but not in Oregon.This happened in Philomath. I think the weather is getting strange.

Healthy Cookies?

Healthy Honey Oatmeal Cookies
3 tablespoons butter, room temperature
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup honey
1 egg
1 tablespoon water
1/2 cup whole-wheat flour (or all-purpose is fine)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 cups rolled oats

Drop by heaping teaspoonfuls onto the cookie sheet. Bake at 350 for 12 to 15 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.

Happy Birthday Baby Finlee

My new little niece, Finlee, was born this morning.
I wish I lived closer and was able to see her myself, but I got to see lots of beautiful pictures, and in just a month I'll be there.
Love you, baby Fin!

WFMW - Toddler Bed

Well, for us, this little twist on Works for me Wednesday is just in time. My one-and-a-half year old is occupying our crib and I was hoping to avoid buying a second crib. She's smart (I realize just about everyone would say this about their child), so the transition to the toddler bed quickly became a game. For about a week, she did well, but then it started taking longer and longer to put her down, up to an hour and a half (before she was going down in her crib in about 5 minutes, no joke). She'd play all kinds of games making bedtime frustrating and exhausting for me and by the end she was going to sleep in tears. We only tried this for a couple weeks.

So, what works for you? At what age did you start kids in the toddler bed? Should I just go buy another crib? (The baby is gonna need to be in a crib in the next few weeks.) Do you have any success tips for helping her stay in her bed?

I'd love to hear it, and I'll certainly let you know how it turns out.

If you want to help other people by answering their questions about what works for you check out Rocks in my Dryer's Works for me Wednesday.

Menu Plan Monday-Cleaning out the Cupboards

This week will be a creative one. I'm not going shopping. I have plenty of food, I just need to put it together and make meals. I really enjoy having a week like this once in a while. I end up being more creative with what we have (like the fresh pork we were given last week), using random things we might have overlooked otherwise, and we eat a lot of beans, yum.

Monday:
B- Cereal
L- Grilled Cheese, Carrots and Apples
D- Ham Steaks, Mashed Potatoes, Carrots, French Bread

Tuesday:
B- Muffins
L- Tri-color Pasta Salad
D- Beans, Cheese, Homemade Flour Tortillas

Wednesday:
B- Sausage and pancakes
L- Tostadas
D- Agape meal- Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Thursday:
B- Chilequilas
L- Pork Spare Ribs, Cilantro Rice
D- Leftovers

Friday:
B- Cinnamon Rolls from the Bread Machine
L- Pizza with Ham and Peppers, Salad
D- Salmon Cakes, Fried Potatoes

For more great menu ideas check out Menu Plan Monday

What's Frugal?

Here's my little frugal tip: Surround yourself with other frugal-ites, network with wise people in living frugally (like we're doing here), and enjoy the satisfaction of saving a buck!

Something I've learned from a friend who uses this kind of laundry soap recipe is that you don't have to buy expensive detergent to clean your clothes well. We love it. And I use a little vinegar in a downy ball for softener. I like it as much or better than this laundry detergent we used to buy (somehow I was convinced it was better. Ahh! What was I thinking?) So check this soap out. The ingredients are very basic and more natural than the ingredients in commercial detergents. What we do is closest to the first recipe.

Here's a little story:

When I got married, I lived in CA and was frugal out of absolute necessity. My husband and I both worked, and I would say we had decent paying jobs. But, California is such an expensive place to live, our dollars never seemed to go far enough. I learned a little from my Mother-in-law about where to shop and what to buy, but on my own I started making rules for myself. I only bought certain things if they were on sale, and I knew all the, regular prices, great sales, and don't-even-think-about-buying-me kind of prices on the items I regularly bought.

Growing up, I didn't see my parents being particularly careful with spending. I sometimes felt like I was disappointing to my mom when I would tell her about my great deal, or record shopping trip. I honestly thought I was odd. Many other people I knew grocery shopped at the big chain stores, which I knew to be much, MUCH more expensive than the places I shopped. I didn't really talk to friends about how I shopped, but secretly felt very satisfied that I could shop for my family (then only the husband and I) for only 30 dollars every couple weeks. I missed being able to go out an buy myself a new top or pair of jeans, but soon learned the places that ran great sales at the end of seasons, and began buying only when sales were at their best, or at places like Ross. When my husband got a promotion and needed better slacks for work, I shopped there, and found HUGE savings. Sometimes the big savings meant weak seams or other minor flaws, but I could easily reinforce a seam in exchange for the low prices. I didn't know I was frugal (I kinda just thought I was poor, and didn't want to be poor AND in debt.) I didn't know people were like me in this and liked getting the most for their grocery dollar. But, I did know I could honor the Lord this way.

Then we moved. Living in the Midwest, I find the cost of living is lower, and our budget has a little extra room, but I don't plan to make that a license to waste. I am still careful with our grocery budget, and when clothes shopping, I always buy sales, but we do get to budget in eating out occasionally. That is a great treat. We have learned, though, that if we are in the mood for a great steak dinner, buying some steaks to grill, baking potatoes, and roasting some farm fresh corn on the cob is a way better deal and more of a treat than just going out to a steakhouse. We can even invite friends over and enjoy this kind of meal together for MUCH less than we would spend on ourselves going out.

I have recently discovered the site, Frugal Hacks. These ladies are brilliant and encouraging. I love reading their stories, and tips. I really want to be consistently frugal, be a good steward of what I have, save my family money, and honor them and my Lord.

So, check this blog out, but also check out Frugal Friday over at Biblical Womanhood.

One, Two, buckle my...

The Girlie has been learning so much lately. Her Papa has been singing a lot of "1, 2, buckle my shoe..." and those kind of songs. Well, she can count to 7 now! At church tonight she was walking up the isle touching the pews and saying "one, two...fwee, four...five, six...seden, seden, seden..." It's so sweet. I love it. I can't believe she's counting.

Microwave Popcorn.

Ok, so here's a little tip for Works for me Wednesday:

I really like popcorn. I think those microwave packets are too expensive, and not very good. I don't like to do it on the stove. It turns out tasty, but it's a little too dangerous for me, and I don't have a pot big enough. I love air popped popcorn, but I don't have room in my teeny tiny kitchen for a big ol' air popper.

So, I have a great solution. I buy the regular bag of popcorn kernels and pop them in the microwave. Did you know you don't need one of those silly microwave packets to make great microwave popcorn? You can put your kernels in a small paper bag or a container with a lid (for less waste) and turn on the microwave for about three minutes. Now, most people probably don't like plain popcorn like I do, so there's this great stuff called popcorn salt. It's tasty, you can use a little or a lot, and it lasts a long time.

We especially love popcorn this time of year with a little mug of milk or hot chocolate alongside. What a treat for an afternoon or evening snack.

For more WFMW tips, check it out at Rocks in my Dryer.

Lowercase L ???

Ok, here's an amusing site. This blog is TOTAllY dedicated to lowercase L inserted where a capital belongs. Like when a sign is handwritten in all capitals.

Menu Plan Monday

Mmm, this week will be a treat. Some friends from church gave us some fresh pork. I love pork, and it's always a treat to get fresh meat. I'll try use some in some creative ways since we'll probably eat a lot of it the next couple weeks

Monday:
B- Cereal, Banana
L-Chicken, Cantaloupe
D- Ground Turkey Enchiladas(a variation on this), Rice, Beans

Tuesday:
B- French Toast
L- Sandwiches, Cantaloupe
D- Adobo with Pork, White Rice, green beans

Wednesday:
B-Chilequiles
L- Pork Fried Rice(bottom of that post.)
D- Agape meal at church. Take Jello Salad, maybe?

Thursday:
B- Pancakes, Sausage
L- Homemade Pizza, (dough from the bread machine)salad
D- Easy Veggie Chow Mein

Friday:
B- Cereal, banana
L- Baked Rotini, Zucchini
D-Leftovers.

For more great menu ideas, check out Menu Plan Monday.

Mmm...Fresh Bread

Machine Wheat French Bread
1 1/2 cups warm water
3 cups bread flour & 1 cup wheat flour
1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
2 1/2 tsp yeast

This is my new, absolute favorite bread. It's so simple. (Plus low in fat, no butter or oil and no sugar or honey and saves well.) I put it in my bread machine and use the 2 lb expressbake setting. It takes just an hour and the texture is wonderful!

The girlie and I sliced a couple pieces for a snack this morning. What a treat. Of course you can use regular white flour, table salt, whatever you have on hand. When I started making this recipe I used white flour, and I would take it out of the machine before baking and shape it into a long french bread loaf. It was great that way, but with two little ones who can resist letting the machine do all the work?!

This way it's a really great sandwich bread. I slice it a little on the thin side; it's a dense bread that will really hold up. I don't like it when it's all crumbled by the time I am half way through my piece. The thing I missed most when switching over to machine bread for frugality was my soft dense sandwich bread. Now I have this and I don't miss it one bit!

AND, we added up the cost on this loaf and it's just under $0.50. Wow. That's quite a competitive price on a price on a 2lb loaf.

Now, I'm sure the bread machine is the oldest tip in the in the frugal book, but I just couldn't resist sharing this recipe with you. If you'd like to see more ideas on fun frugal living check out Biblical Womanhood for Frugal Fridays.

Psalm 48:2

"Fair in situation,
the joy of the whole earth;
even mount Zion,
the uttermost parts of the north,
the city of the great King."
Psalm 48:2
Jewish Publication Society Tanakh

"Tissue, please"

My daughter is about 20 months and starting to understand just about everything. She's becoming very helpful, too.

This morning I asked her "Wanna go get a 'tissue'?" She answered "o-k" and ran off. I was a little impressed ( I didn't know she knew the word 'tissue'. She came running back, obviously very proud, with 'two shoes'. Ha ha. She's telling me, "Shoes! shoes!"

What a big, smart girlie I have.

Menu Plan Monday

My Eggplant Parmesan was great last week! I had never tried that before, but I'll definitely do it again. It was a good week. Nice to have a plan again. I'm just planning dinner this week, here goes:

m- Veggie calzone

t- Beans, green chile, tortillas

w- Agape meal at church take taco salad

th- Chicken tostadas, brown rice

f- Grilled chicken, potato wedges, peppers, fresh bread

To see more great menu plans and ideas check out Menu Plan Monday over at Laura's.

She loves her baby

Tonight, after putting my daughter to bed, I heard her crying and saying "I want baby, I want baby..." This is unusual, so I went to check on her. I asked, "What do you want?" and she said "I want Coa (that's how she says his name)." So, of course I attempted to reason with my toddler, "It's night, night. You need to lay down and go to sleep." To which she replied in near-hystarics "I want baby!" So, nervously, I got her out of her crib (fearing that with this one move I was throwing off our entire nighttime routine). I rocked her for a minute, and she calmed down, then took her out to the living room where 'her baby' was playing; when she saw him she smiled and through a sob exclaimed, "Hi, Baby!"

She immediately asked to hold him, so I sat her down on the couch and she held him for about half an hour, cuddling, talking to him, and kissing him over and over. Of course I pulled our the camera. I got lots of great pictures. Then I scooped her up and took her back to her bed. Minutes later she was in dreamland. Don't we all just need a baby fix sometimes?

Menu Plan Monday

Laura, over at I'm an Organizing Junkie hosts a great little thing Monday mornings. A thing I'd like to call: *announcer voice* MENU PLAN MONDAY!
THis is kind of a strange week. We have a leadership conference at church the end of this week. We should be pretty busy, so hopefully a plan will keep us sane. Here's my plan for the week:

Sunday:
B- Bagel
L- Adobo Chicken, White rice, steamed veggie.
D- Chicken and veggie Fried Rice (I'll include my recipe at the bottom of the post.)

Monday:
B- Cakes
L- leftover fried rice
D- ground beef/potato tacos, beans

Tuesday:
B- Cereal
L- Tuna Salad
D- Chicken & Eggplant Parmesan (some like Chicken, some eggplant), thin spaghetti noodles

Wednesday:
B- Yogurt
L- BLT
D- Agape Meal at church, take

Thursday:
B- Chilequillas
Church the rest of the day

Friday:
B- French Toast
At church the rest of the day

Sat:
Church all day

So, here's the Fried Rice Recipe. A friend of mine made fried rice for me once, and it was pretty good, but I thought I'd tweak it a little to suit my family. We usually make it when we have leftover rice from the rice cooker, but any white rice will do.

What you need:
Cooked rice, when we have this for a main course, I use up to a couple cups per person.
Chicken (usually leftover)
Veggies (can be leftover, frozen, canned, whatever)
Bullion (I use about 1TB powdered chicken flavor)
Soy sauce
egg (if desired)
A couple TBS oil

Directions:
Put a little oil in a large skillit, when hot, pour in rice and stir around for a few minutes, add chicken,bullion, soy sauce and veggies, and stir around until all is well combined and heated through. push rice to the side and crack an egg in the middle scramble quickly and begin stirring into the rice, continue stirring till all is cooked (you'll see little bits of egg throughout)

See, it's so so so easy. And delicious. We think it's just like from a restaurant.
(I didn't think It could be done at home!)

Blogging about Blogging

You know, I feel like I've been writing so superficially. I'm really bugged about it. I think of insightful, personal things I'd like to blog about, but by the time I have a chance to write (everyone is fed, the kids are down...) I can't remember what in the world my brilliant idea was!

I used to enjoy writing so much. I'd journal, write songs, then I had kids. You know, life is busier with little ones. And more interesting, but all those interesting little tidbits going to waste... how sad.

Even sitting here writing, I have a whole list of things I need to do; but I sit here blogging about not blogging, and feeling a little guilty about sitting here and blogging about sitting here feeling here a little guilty about sitting here blogging.

Ahhhh!

I think I'll start carrying a little notebook with me. I do like writing. I sure miss it.

Nurse-in/out at Applebee's

I will be at my local Applebee's tomorrow (September 8th) to bring attention to Nicholasville Road Applebee's in central Kentucky forbidding a woman to nurse her baby in the restaurant, unless she used a blanket to cover up. Sadly, my state does NOT have a law that supports or protects moms breastfeeding in public. This should be changed!

If you would like to learn about this woman's expierience, how this Applebee's broke the law, and what she's doing about it check this out.

Wii Got One

So, last week we stopped by Wal-mart, and happened upon the electronics department. (We were not there for anything electronic.) Out of the corner of his eye, my husband noticed an unexpected box. Could it be? We bent down, and in fact it was a Wii. My husband was exctatic, but we hadn't even decided if we were going to look at getting one yet.

I don't know if you know, but I guess these are really hard to find. Stores generally only get a few at a time. They said they had received four the night before, and they had two left. My Dear Husband acted like it was a once in a lifetime event and we'd better jump on it. We ended up getting one.

It is so fun. I'm pretty glad he got it, we've ben playing sports games. I think I play more than he does, but shhh, don't tell.

Babies

Wow. My babies are growing.

"Freegan"

What's a FREEGAN?

I learned this term on Good Morning America. Sounds like it would be an interesting thing to see how much is wasted in my area. I'd actually really like to check it out, and you can bet I'll post about it, if/when I do.

I guess, people who are often stereotyped as "dumpster divers" are sometimes doing this for a cause. You know, for me, rather than being a super enviornmentalist, I'm more just against hunger. If there's as much extra food being thrown out by supermarkets as they say, I don't want to support these businesses. We'll see.


“It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’” Matthew 4:4

Theona Checkerspot (Chlosyne theona)

I've been wanting to hop back into blogging, after a new baby and a move. I think this is the perfect way. Here's a beautiful butterfly. She has quite an interesting name, if you ask me...

Movin' on Down...

Well, we moved. I could use that as an excuse for why I haven't posted lately. We moved to a friend's basement, really for a variety of reasons, but it's really gonna work out well I think. It's cute. The walls are painted yellow with a white chair rail, and the bottom half of the walls white bead board. The kitchen is cute, teeny, but cute. faux brick, a green sink... it's funky and cute. I really like that we have more room, and a nice place to play out back. I really think we should have been outside more already, but we have time I guess. We've been a little busy with unpacking and such.

Tonight the girlie had an especially tough time settling down for bed. That was frustrating. She just thought it was so funny, and I kept taking her back to her bed. Finally she got upset about it, then settled down, we prayed and snuggled and did the normal thing and she was off to dreamland. Hopefully this won't become a routine.

I've started doing crunches and I'm gonna start a six week video program as soon as I find my DVDs. I did 160 crunches today. Over 100 were "bicycle crunches" It was fun and I feel accomplished. I'm definitely gonna keep that up.

Well, this is enough for now. I'm gonna go hop into bed and try to get a couple extra hours of sleep tonight.

Baby Buzz

My baby boy got a buzz...cut that is. We shaved his head with clippers. He's got the cutest little round head!

Like Charlie Chaplain

I wish I could tell you how truly beautiful the birth of my son was. With Theona we video taped quite a bit through out, but this time it just didn't happen. I almost wish we had that to keep the memory, but it SO would have interrupted the experience. You know, it's so perfect that this was shared only with the husband, me, and God. There's no one to forget it. I would think for most doctors, one birth would run into another, they'd easily forget such a special event for this family.

"Like Charlie Chaplain,
like clapping one hand,
my love can not be heard.
And all those love songs,
they come out all wrong,
'cause there's just no such word..."

-Craig's Brother

Happy 4th of July

Theona's second Fourth of July was fun. We got some sparklers. Theona loved them. I hate fireworks, but we had fun watching the neighbors shoot off their big scary ones until it got a little dangerous and I ran inside. Yes I'm serious. I ran.

My Babies

I'm a bad blogger... Ok, not too bad, just new to it I guess, AND I guess I shouldn't forget that I have a new little one to enjoy and nurture. So there, I'm not a bad blogger, just a good Mommy!

Here are a couple new pictures for you Julia:


My Babies. How sweet is the girl?! She's taking care of her baby.


My little guy is growing so fast.


Loving the brother. Awww...



My Girly is just so into her baby. I love it. I'm just enjoying my little family, and trying to remember not to get too busy. I have no problem finding a million things that need to be done with an infant and a toddler, but I've been sure to find lots of time to love on both of them and thinking up some special ways of letting the big sister know she's still my baby, too. We made a cake for Papa a couple days ago. It was a blast.

Grandma is Coming to Town.

Grandma gets here today. Her plane arrives in two hours!

She is seriously not going to believe how big Theona has gotten since we visited in February. I know she's gonna just fall in love with her new grandson!

Ahhh... what fun. Two hours and we'll go pick her up from the airport.

Pictures

One Week Ago Today

One week ago today, even this very hour, I was laboring. I was working very hard to birth my baby boy.

It's funny how quickly the joy of this new baby replaces any memories of pain and fuzzes all that hard work to make it seem so far off. I'm so pleased that we chose to birth in such a natural way.

My baby was born at home. He was greeted into the waiting hands of his Mommy and shortly after, was met by the loving embrace of his Papa. It was perfect. It was awesome and intimate. And it was SAFE.

I truly believe that natural, unassisted, unhindered birth is safe. My body, that God made able to conceive this child, that kept him safe, and, thankfully, grew him 'til he was ready to be born, was able to birth him. That should be expected. What sense would it make that my could do all the other parts except birth?

I realize that unexpected things can happen in this delicate process, and in that situation we can be thankful for doctors and medicine. But, this should be the exception, NOT the rule. Why should I live in fear when I've made sure I'm healthy, my baby has been healthy, and I know my body works? Why should I be fearful when I've asked my Lord what steps to take and he has spoken to me? I would rather live in FAITH than in fear. I would rather trust the Lord and the wisdom He's given me. I've educated myself. I know what's expected, and what's normal. I know that this is normal.

It is normal, and should be called normal that my husband and I would be present for the birth of this baby. It should be called normal that I listen to my body and follow the natural signals that God has provided. It should be called normal that my body works, that BIRTH WORKS!

I'll write his birth story soon. I look forward to it. It's a beautiful story that has me amazed at my Lord. He's so faithful, so worthy of praise. For now, I'll be snuggling this sweet baby boy.

I am Selfish

I sit here with a sleeping baby on my lap. I'd love to tell about his birth just a few days ago, but somehow, I have to wait. I just have to wait and hang on to the intamacy of the event shared just between my husband, myself and my Lord. Soon I'll be ready to share it. I look foreward to that, actually, but for now, I'll wait.

I have told some people about it, but for me, writing it is somehow different. The responces I've gotten have been varied and sometimes pasionate. I'm surprised people can be so negetive about such a joyous event as birth. I understand surprise or even shock at a choice you're unfamiliar with, but to be mean, hurtful, hateful, condeming... instead of just kind. I don't really understand.

Here's a link I found beautiful and well put.

I may be selfish, but I loved every minute of it!

Jeecoa Stats

Jecoa Caleb was born at 11:38 on Friday night.

We weighed him today when I visited the midwife. He's 8 lbs 4 oz! He was probably over eight and a half when he was born, but we would have guessed less. And only 18 inches long.

He's so precious.

He looks a little like Theona, but A LOT like his papa! He definitely has his eyes, and nose, and toes, AND HAIR! It's sooo funny. He's pretty covered in hair. He's got fuzzy dark hair on his arms and legs and back and forehead. He has quite a bit of hair on his head too, but not a big ol' mohawk like his sister did.

He's amazing, and sister loves him. She's amazing, too.

Well, more to come later... I have the very important job of snuggling this sweet baby. I'm off to that...

Baby BOY!

He was born at 11:38 Friday night.
He is such a healthy little guy. We're both doing really well.
I'll put up pictures and a better post soon.

Due Date!

Well, this baby in my belly has stayed for his due date. I kind of expected that. I know it will be soon now. I'm thankful that the Lord has kept him safe so far, and I know he will bring him out in His time. How exciting that we will be having a baby so soon. Probably within the week.

I was thinking about "nesting" and thinking about the Lord's return. I realize that if I was really convinced the Lord was comming tomarrow (or maybe tonight!!), I would be preparing differently. I get a little anxious each night when I go to bed, thinking about the things I should have finished today or the things I REALLY need to get done tomarrow (and I hope I have time). Leaving a mess downstairs is unbearable! I don't want to wake up to contractions, have a baby, then be worried about how untidy I left the house... I definately want the Lord to impress on my heart a sense of urgency for his comming. I know He's comming soon, and I believe "it might be today", but I haven't been acting like I believe it. I need this fire stirred up in my heart to share the gospel, tell people boldly that Jesus loves them. I don't want to waste my time with this and end up leaving my circle of influence unaffected. I better make sure things are in order in this area, too.

My Screaming Girl

So the girlie has found that screaming is fun (for HER!). But for me, not so much. She likes to scream at the cat, which she thinks is hillarious, but terrifies my poor 10 year old "Sal". She screams at me when I want to change her diaper, but I'm discovering I can easily encourage her helpfulness and avoid some of these ear numbing shrieks, by just letting her get the diaper and lay herself down. This doesn't work everytime, but we're practicing. She sometimes screams in the car just because. Any my very least favorite is the protesting scream when we're somewhere like church, or really any public place. That's the worst scream, too. It's just so loud and defiant.

Day before yesterday, we went to a Mother/Daughter Tea (I know, I'm adventurous with a 16 month old!!) of course she totally screamed while someone else was getting ready to sing a song, but she sat so nicely on her chair and ate a cracker while I participated in a skit (Yes, I was terrified that leaving her in a chair across the room would turn into chaos, the Lord is gracious to me!). All in all it was great fun, even though the brief screaming stint offended the lady next to us... part of life with a toddler, I guess.

She is talking a lot, and when I ask her to use her words, she usually has one! (Most often "please") I'm quite impressed by that. She's a good girl, and she's gonna be a great big sis, but I'm afraid her new brother isn't gonna know what to think of her if she doesn't quiet her little voice down! Ahh, what crazy fun we are looking forward to. TWO babies!!

You know, the Lord always encourages me just when and how I need it. He's so good to me. I've been feeling like I fail, and have so little to offer... Well, guess what, He reminded me it's true. I don't have much to offer, and I'm not wise, and I'm not influential...in myself, but that's the wonderful part, I guess. My Lord can be glorified because whatever good is accomplished can be credited to Him. He's the source of whatever wisdom, righteousness, or holiness comes out of my life.

Thanks Lord for reminding me just when I needed it :)

26Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29so that no one may boast before him. 30It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."1 Corinthians 1:26-31

In GOD We Trust

Here's a wonderful quote... I don't know from what month, but I think it's funny to see the world vaguely acknowledge God like this. At least they know there is a God to turn to if they so choose...I guess.

The quote of the month is by Jay Leno:

"With hurricanes, tornados, fires out of control, mud slides, flooding, severe thunderstorms tearing up the country from one end to another, and with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks, are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the
Pledge of Allegiance?"

The Girl and the Microwave

Up 'til this last week My girlie was a little scared of the microwave. If she heard it beep she'd come running to me with big eyes and want to be held. I've been telling her "beep" when it beeps, and now instead of running scared she just walks around saying "beep, beep, beep..." as if she knows just what's going on and she's telling me now.

ONE Month

Wow. I have one month left (or so) until the baby is here! This pregnancy has flown by. It's the first, and I'm due June first.

I think we're about ready. I still have a couple things around the house I want to be settled before he comes, but we're getting there. We have the "new baby" stuff we need. Now we're just waiting on him and the Lord. How exciting.

Adobo

This is one of our absolute favorite meals! We learned it from a couple different Fillapino friends. It can be made with chicken, beef, or pork (my favorite!)

Ingredients:

Meat of your choice. Chicken legs/thighs are great, or breasts, or bite sized pieces of pork or beef (This week we're gonna have it with some venison a friend gave us)
1 cup soy sauce
2 cups vinegar ( We buy a spicy vinegar from a local Asian food store called "Sukang Maasim" or any spicy vinegar with garlic, onion, and chiles in it , but you can also use white vinegar. You may want 1/2 and 1/2 if you don't want it too spicy)
1 bay leaf (not totally necessary, but it adds a great flavor)

Directions:

1. Brown the meat well - sometimes I use a little olive oil, sometimes just dry in a non-stick skillet if the meat seems to have a lot of fat.
2. add vinegar and soy sauce and bay leaf. (you may want to lean back when you add the vinegar unless you want your sinuses cleared.)
3. simmer 1/2 hour or so, until the meat is done
Eat with plain white rice. I make it in the rice cooker so it's nice and fluffy. I'm sure it's great with brown rice, but this is one meal my husband would insist on white rice for.

Mmmm...

No More Nail Biting!

I have quit biting my nails. Anyone who knows me knows this has been a life long habit (and a horrible one I might say!) It's been 2 weeks, no biting!

I was planning to go get a manicure last Friday, but it didn't happen. It's more expensive here than CA, and I didn't want to spend the extra dollars... I trimmed them last night when I got home from church, but I really need to learn how to file them so I can grow them a little longer and have them look decent. I might just paint them tonight. I have a nice color that a friend from church gave me.

I really want to truly give this to the Lord and be done with it. This is really very exciting for me. Hooray for no more nail biting!

Ecclesiastes 12

1 Remember your Creator
in the days of your youth,
before the days of trouble come
and the years approach when you will say,
"I find no pleasure in them"-

2 before the sun and the light
and the moon and the stars grow dark,
and the clouds return after the rain;

3 when the keepers of the house tremble,
and the strong men stoop,
when the grinders cease because they are few,
and those looking through the windows grow dim;

4 when the doors to the street are closed
and the sound of grinding fades;
when men rise up at the sound of birds,
but all their songs grow faint;

5 when men are afraid of heights
and of dangers in the streets;
when the almond tree blossoms
and the grasshopper drags himself along
and desire no longer is stirred.
Then man goes to his eternal home
and mourners go about the streets.

6 Remember him—before the silver cord is severed,
or the golden bowl is broken;
before the pitcher is shattered at the spring,
or the wheel broken at the well,

7 and the dust returns to the ground it came from,
and the spirit returns to God who gave it.