I am struggling with the fact that I have not given birth yet. I was worried about the Hurricane Irene that was supposed to hit Florida on Thursday. If there are warnings out, then I am to go to the hospital and just sit there. I guess it's a good idea, but I had my heart set on not delivering at the hospital, so this was not good news to me.
I am planning on doing a water birth at the birthing center. I didn't want to have the hospital restricting me to laying on my back, and not walking or eating. I was so excited to have found the birthing center, and also to have all the support of my friends and family. Some were skeptical at first, but I have their full support.
Now it looks like Hurricane Irene will miss Florida. YAY!!! I am still pregnant, and waiting for my precious baby to arrive, but I am no longer bummed about the whole hospital thing. Thanks to everyone that was praying for the hurricane to shift direction and not come this way. I do want to experience my first hurricane, I know I'm crazy, but not while I am 39 weeks pregnant.
That is another thing!!! I have never been this pregnant before. Jameson was born at 35 weeks, due to my gall bladder problems. Teagen was born at 37 weeks, just made it to full term. Gavin was born at 38 almost 39 weeks. I am sitting here wondering if I will be pregnant forever. I am praying every day for him to come soon, but I always tell God that I know it's His will and He knows what's best. Sometimes, I admit, I do think I know better. Then God shows me that He is right. Lord, please just bring me a healthy baby!
After I was able to calm myself down, being extremely thankful to not have a hurricane on my doorstep, I find out there was an earthquake today. What?!? In Virginia? I had never heard of earthquakes in Virginia. Very interesting.
I have a TV, but I don't get local channels, or cable. So when I see people on facebook talking about an earthquake I was shocked. I was looking into different news web pages and couldn't find much information. I don't believe there was that much damage, if any, but still weird.
With all the "stuff" going on in the world today, I would not be surprised if Jesus came soon. I really hope He does. But, then I think of all the people I know that don't know Him. Man, I really need to open my mouth more often and spread the good news. There are some people very close to me that are not saved, and I have not even said a word to them about it. God may be waiting for me to open my big mouth for the right reason to share the Gospel with someone so that He can do what He does.
Lord help me and guide me. Only through You can I do this. Give me the strength and the courage and the words to say. Bring salvation to my loved ones. Lord, also help me to share You with those I do not love so much.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Friday, August 19, 2011
Still Pregnant
I am 38 weeks and 3 days pregnant today. I have 12 days to go until my due date. I am really hoping that the baby will come soon (like tonight). I am so excited to meet him, and would really like to not have heartburn anymore. I will be posting pictures as soon as he arrives. Please keep praying that all will go smooth with the delivery.
We are still planning on delivering at the birth center. I am really hoping for a water birth. We try to go swimming as often as we can, and I am so much more comfortable in the water.
For those of you that don't know me personally, I was in diving in high school, and practically lived in the water for seven years. I am comfortable there and would love to experience a water birth.
Jameson told me today that he doesn't want another brother. Instead he would like a sister. I told him that he should pray about it. "Maybe someday God will give you a little sister." I am not sure he liked that answer, but that's all I could say.
Gavin is going to have a hard time with the new baby. He already has a hard time sharing my attention with anyone else. He is having a really hard time with mommy not being able to pick him up all the time. He is 16 months and 28 pounds. That is just a little to much for me right now. I do snuggle with him a lot on the couch though. He seems to be crawling into my lap quite a bit. I think he knows things are about to change.
Teagen is starting to become a little rebelious. Of course he is 3 now. He is learning how to write his letters, and gets angry when I try to help him, or ask him to write other letters. He is very independent. He also wants to help all the time, but is not big enough or strong enough to do the things he wants to do.
Jameson is a huge helper. He does dishes and laundry and sweeps and so much more. The only things he doesn't do on his own yet are, cooking on the stove (he's too short) and diaper changing (he refuses). He just started taking showers every day. He wants to be like daddy. He also is wearing deoderant. He doesn't really need it, but he wants to wear it. After all, he is a big boy now. I am really looking forward to all the help he will be able to provide when the new baby comes.
I can't imagine having another blessing added to all the ones that have already been given to me. God has been so good to us. Despite all the trials we have been through lately, I am still in awe at how much he loves me. He has entrusted me with the lives of four little boys. I am responsible for teaching the and raising them to love God, their creator. At times I don't think I can do it. At other times I am so excited. Thank you so much God for my family, both biological and spiritual. Thank you God for saving me, and giving me the gift of eternal life, that I may teach my children the truth.
We are still planning on delivering at the birth center. I am really hoping for a water birth. We try to go swimming as often as we can, and I am so much more comfortable in the water.
For those of you that don't know me personally, I was in diving in high school, and practically lived in the water for seven years. I am comfortable there and would love to experience a water birth.
Jameson told me today that he doesn't want another brother. Instead he would like a sister. I told him that he should pray about it. "Maybe someday God will give you a little sister." I am not sure he liked that answer, but that's all I could say.
Gavin is going to have a hard time with the new baby. He already has a hard time sharing my attention with anyone else. He is having a really hard time with mommy not being able to pick him up all the time. He is 16 months and 28 pounds. That is just a little to much for me right now. I do snuggle with him a lot on the couch though. He seems to be crawling into my lap quite a bit. I think he knows things are about to change.
Teagen is starting to become a little rebelious. Of course he is 3 now. He is learning how to write his letters, and gets angry when I try to help him, or ask him to write other letters. He is very independent. He also wants to help all the time, but is not big enough or strong enough to do the things he wants to do.
Jameson is a huge helper. He does dishes and laundry and sweeps and so much more. The only things he doesn't do on his own yet are, cooking on the stove (he's too short) and diaper changing (he refuses). He just started taking showers every day. He wants to be like daddy. He also is wearing deoderant. He doesn't really need it, but he wants to wear it. After all, he is a big boy now. I am really looking forward to all the help he will be able to provide when the new baby comes.
I can't imagine having another blessing added to all the ones that have already been given to me. God has been so good to us. Despite all the trials we have been through lately, I am still in awe at how much he loves me. He has entrusted me with the lives of four little boys. I am responsible for teaching the and raising them to love God, their creator. At times I don't think I can do it. At other times I am so excited. Thank you so much God for my family, both biological and spiritual. Thank you God for saving me, and giving me the gift of eternal life, that I may teach my children the truth.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Work
I have been really busy lately. There is so much that has happened, and so much to share. We have been going through a little bit of a trial these last few weeks. Scott lost his job. We were devastated. We didn't know what we were going to do.
Have you ever been there? How are we going to pay rent? How are we going to buy gas for the car so he can look for a new job? There were so many thoughts that were running through my head. So many things that I was starting to worry about.
The only thing that was able to calm my nerves and my mind, was God. I knew that He had provided for our family in the past. I worried myself through trials before only to come out on the other end wondering why I spent that much energy on worrying when God had taken care of everything.
It also helped, that Scott was very calm. He was amazing. I know he probably had his worries, but he didn't show them. He was able to remain calm around me, which helped me to remain calm. We prayed. We read God's Word. We sat and talked. We became closer. In this time of trial, we have become closer to each other, and closer to God.
God had blessed us with so much. We have been striving to listen to what God wants, striving to do His will. We were not always asking for a job, but for guidance on what he wants us to do with our lives.
Scott is interested in going into ministry. He wants to go back to school. He wants to learn all he can about God, and share what he learns with the world. Ever since he went to Haiti, he feels drawn there. He plans on returning there in November, but only for a few days. He would like to extend the time spent there to a few months or longer. He would also like to take his family. We would love to go as well. Doing work for God, and sharing His love is one of those natural highs.
We are expecting a baby here in just a couple weeks, (anytime now). There is still so much to do. I still have to pack the bag. I also have an iron deficiency. I am on iron supplements along with Vitamin C to help the absorption.
We are praying that everything will go well with the delivery, as it will be at a birth center, not a hospital. I have never delivered outside a hospital before, but I am very excited about the freedom I will have to move around. Also, I am excited about not even having an option of drugs. I really don't want someone reminding me of all the pain I'm in. Instead they will be helping me overcome that pain and reminding me of the "MIRACLE" that has been blessed to us again. We are so excited to welcome boy #4.
Back to the issue of a job. I am pregnant, and tend to change subject pretty often, and also forget what I am talking about quite often, so bear with me.
We have some amazing friends that were in a trial of their own, with a place to live for about two months between apartments. God led us together, and we are now living with a total of 4 adults, and 4 children (soon to be 5 children). This is a blessing to us all. We will have some extra help with the kids after I give birth, and the company is great. It is amazing how God has provided for us all.
Talking about provision, Scott has been offered a job. The pay is not quite what he was receiving before, but it is an amazing opportunity. Chik-Fil-A! For those of you who have never heard of this company, it is a fast food restaurant that serves Chicken. Their advertisements are hilarious. It is a Christian founded business that is closed on Sundays. YAY! They are fine with Scott starting and taking time off soon when the baby comes, and also to take time off in November for the mission trip he has planned.
It has been a total of three weeks that Scott has been out of work, and that is all it took. With the unemployment rate and the amount we needed him to make for us to live on, I was surprised that he got a job so quickly. God has blessed us, and provided for us so many times. He has moved in our lives so many times. He has blessed us with the strength and the faith to endure whatever may come our way.
We thank every one of you that has prayed for us. May God bless your lives as well. We are on our way to the other side of this trial, and all I can do is thank God for it. We have learned so much.
Have you ever been there? How are we going to pay rent? How are we going to buy gas for the car so he can look for a new job? There were so many thoughts that were running through my head. So many things that I was starting to worry about.
The only thing that was able to calm my nerves and my mind, was God. I knew that He had provided for our family in the past. I worried myself through trials before only to come out on the other end wondering why I spent that much energy on worrying when God had taken care of everything.
It also helped, that Scott was very calm. He was amazing. I know he probably had his worries, but he didn't show them. He was able to remain calm around me, which helped me to remain calm. We prayed. We read God's Word. We sat and talked. We became closer. In this time of trial, we have become closer to each other, and closer to God.
God had blessed us with so much. We have been striving to listen to what God wants, striving to do His will. We were not always asking for a job, but for guidance on what he wants us to do with our lives.
Scott is interested in going into ministry. He wants to go back to school. He wants to learn all he can about God, and share what he learns with the world. Ever since he went to Haiti, he feels drawn there. He plans on returning there in November, but only for a few days. He would like to extend the time spent there to a few months or longer. He would also like to take his family. We would love to go as well. Doing work for God, and sharing His love is one of those natural highs.
We are expecting a baby here in just a couple weeks, (anytime now). There is still so much to do. I still have to pack the bag. I also have an iron deficiency. I am on iron supplements along with Vitamin C to help the absorption.
We are praying that everything will go well with the delivery, as it will be at a birth center, not a hospital. I have never delivered outside a hospital before, but I am very excited about the freedom I will have to move around. Also, I am excited about not even having an option of drugs. I really don't want someone reminding me of all the pain I'm in. Instead they will be helping me overcome that pain and reminding me of the "MIRACLE" that has been blessed to us again. We are so excited to welcome boy #4.
Back to the issue of a job. I am pregnant, and tend to change subject pretty often, and also forget what I am talking about quite often, so bear with me.
We have some amazing friends that were in a trial of their own, with a place to live for about two months between apartments. God led us together, and we are now living with a total of 4 adults, and 4 children (soon to be 5 children). This is a blessing to us all. We will have some extra help with the kids after I give birth, and the company is great. It is amazing how God has provided for us all.
Talking about provision, Scott has been offered a job. The pay is not quite what he was receiving before, but it is an amazing opportunity. Chik-Fil-A! For those of you who have never heard of this company, it is a fast food restaurant that serves Chicken. Their advertisements are hilarious. It is a Christian founded business that is closed on Sundays. YAY! They are fine with Scott starting and taking time off soon when the baby comes, and also to take time off in November for the mission trip he has planned.
It has been a total of three weeks that Scott has been out of work, and that is all it took. With the unemployment rate and the amount we needed him to make for us to live on, I was surprised that he got a job so quickly. God has blessed us, and provided for us so many times. He has moved in our lives so many times. He has blessed us with the strength and the faith to endure whatever may come our way.
We thank every one of you that has prayed for us. May God bless your lives as well. We are on our way to the other side of this trial, and all I can do is thank God for it. We have learned so much.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Books
I just finished reading an amazing book, called "To Train Up A Child" by Michael and Debi Pearl. Most of what I read in this book was common sense stuff that I should have been doing anyway. The rest was some great advice, encouragement, and Bible references that I am now putting into action. Just the thought of having children that do what I ask the first time I ask is incredible.
I have always had some pet peeves with the way some children behave. One major one, is when they respond to their name being called with "What?" My kids were doing this, and I didn't like it. I think it's rather rude. My children are learning to respond with "Yes Mommy" "Yes Daddy" "I'm coming" or something similar. They are catching on to this very quickly.
That is all that I have really accomplished with training so far. I am still working on:
Whining and fussing
Obeying the first time
Sitting still in church
Being grateful / No complaining
No arguing / No talking back
Volume control
That last one is another pet peev of mine. I know my kids did not come with remote controls (though sometimes I really wish they did). I just can't figure out how they go from whispering and playing so nice and quite, to yelling and screaming and running wild. The only explanation I have, is that they are boys. This volume control thing is more of a wish than a training opportunity. I really don't think there is much, if anything, that will change it.
I loved this book.
I am planning on reading "Created To Be His Help Meet" by Debi Pearl. I am told that this is a book that you have to read in parts. Meaning, that you read one chapter and take a while to ponder it. Then you read the next chapter and take a while to ponder that. I guess it isn't a good idea to just read right through this book.
I am working on changing, or training, myself. I have found that there are certain things in my life that I don't like. One of them is that I am not the best wife. I know you are all reading this thinking "Wow, she is an awsome wife and mother. How could she ever think that?" It's true though. I am not perfect. I want to honor God in everything I do, and that all starts with following his command to let my husband lead our family. I need to be his help meet, his helper.
I am really excited to read this book. I will let everyone know what I think when I am done. If I can't wait that long, I will update you along the way.
During all my reading of these great books, I am also reading the best book ever written. The Bible. I am currently reading and studying in Acts and Hebrews. I am in no way educated enough on anything in the Bible to be able to teach anyone, but I will hopefully be posting some things that stand out to me while reading the Lord's Word.
Let me know if any of you are reading anything interesting. I will need more to read soon. I am anticipating some available reading time in about a month when I will be nursing my baby.
I have always had some pet peeves with the way some children behave. One major one, is when they respond to their name being called with "What?" My kids were doing this, and I didn't like it. I think it's rather rude. My children are learning to respond with "Yes Mommy" "Yes Daddy" "I'm coming" or something similar. They are catching on to this very quickly.
That is all that I have really accomplished with training so far. I am still working on:
Whining and fussing
Obeying the first time
Sitting still in church
Being grateful / No complaining
No arguing / No talking back
Volume control
That last one is another pet peev of mine. I know my kids did not come with remote controls (though sometimes I really wish they did). I just can't figure out how they go from whispering and playing so nice and quite, to yelling and screaming and running wild. The only explanation I have, is that they are boys. This volume control thing is more of a wish than a training opportunity. I really don't think there is much, if anything, that will change it.
I loved this book.
I am planning on reading "Created To Be His Help Meet" by Debi Pearl. I am told that this is a book that you have to read in parts. Meaning, that you read one chapter and take a while to ponder it. Then you read the next chapter and take a while to ponder that. I guess it isn't a good idea to just read right through this book.
I am working on changing, or training, myself. I have found that there are certain things in my life that I don't like. One of them is that I am not the best wife. I know you are all reading this thinking "Wow, she is an awsome wife and mother. How could she ever think that?" It's true though. I am not perfect. I want to honor God in everything I do, and that all starts with following his command to let my husband lead our family. I need to be his help meet, his helper.
I am really excited to read this book. I will let everyone know what I think when I am done. If I can't wait that long, I will update you along the way.
During all my reading of these great books, I am also reading the best book ever written. The Bible. I am currently reading and studying in Acts and Hebrews. I am in no way educated enough on anything in the Bible to be able to teach anyone, but I will hopefully be posting some things that stand out to me while reading the Lord's Word.
Let me know if any of you are reading anything interesting. I will need more to read soon. I am anticipating some available reading time in about a month when I will be nursing my baby.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Too Much?
There is too much going on right now.
We are preparing our home for another child, due in just a few weeks. There is cleaning to be done, clothes to be washed, a bag to be packed, a class to take, and more.
We decided not to deliver this baby at the hospital. We really wanted to do a home delivery, but decided to deliver at a birthing center instead. Maybe next time we'll do a home delivery.
Because I have never given birth outside a hospital, I am required to take a Childbirth Class. What?!?! You have got to be kidding me. I have given birth three times, and now I have to take a class. I also have to see a specific doctor just in case I have to be transferred to a hospital. Let me tell you this. If I do have to be transferred to a hospital due to complications, I don't think I will care what doctor I see.
Well, the appointment with the doctor, and the class are both set for Monday.
At the last appointment with the midwife, I was told that my baby is already head down. That was great news to hear, but I kinda figured he was because I have to push his feet away from my ribs quite often. He is however still sitting very high. That's okay though. I am only 34 weeks pregnant right now. He can wait a little longer.
I need to get either a bouncy seat or a swing. If anyone knows of one that is available for extra cheap, let me know. I am hoping to find one before I give birth. I also need to buy a breast pump. I know it is not necessary to get one, but I found it really helpful with all my other kids, that I just don't think I could do without this time. The old one doesn't work anymore and I have my heart set on the Lansinoh Affinity Dual Electric Breast Pump. The only problem is that it's a little out of my price range.
I have to pack a bag to bring with to the birth center. I am working on getting a CD made with my favorite songs. I also need to make sure I bring my Bible. I still haven't picked out an outfit for him to wear home.
I have to clean the house, which isn't different from any other day, but it does feel like it. I do however need to do a little extra laundry. I haven't even opened the bin of baby clothes to sort through. That I am planning on doing tomorrow, we'll see if it gets done.
I have been having a lot of sciatic nerve pain. There isn't much I can do about it, except sit on a heating pad for a little while. After I do that, I am able to get up and walk for about an hour. Then it's back to the heating pad. Some days are better than others, but it is getting worse. Sleeping is also a problem. I am up about 4-5 times a night just to pee. I am also not sleeping well because of the sciatic nerve.
I look forward to seeing the face of my newest little boy. We feel so blessed to be able to welcome him into our lives. Thank you Lord for another blessing.
We are preparing our home for another child, due in just a few weeks. There is cleaning to be done, clothes to be washed, a bag to be packed, a class to take, and more.
We decided not to deliver this baby at the hospital. We really wanted to do a home delivery, but decided to deliver at a birthing center instead. Maybe next time we'll do a home delivery.
Because I have never given birth outside a hospital, I am required to take a Childbirth Class. What?!?! You have got to be kidding me. I have given birth three times, and now I have to take a class. I also have to see a specific doctor just in case I have to be transferred to a hospital. Let me tell you this. If I do have to be transferred to a hospital due to complications, I don't think I will care what doctor I see.
Well, the appointment with the doctor, and the class are both set for Monday.
At the last appointment with the midwife, I was told that my baby is already head down. That was great news to hear, but I kinda figured he was because I have to push his feet away from my ribs quite often. He is however still sitting very high. That's okay though. I am only 34 weeks pregnant right now. He can wait a little longer.
I need to get either a bouncy seat or a swing. If anyone knows of one that is available for extra cheap, let me know. I am hoping to find one before I give birth. I also need to buy a breast pump. I know it is not necessary to get one, but I found it really helpful with all my other kids, that I just don't think I could do without this time. The old one doesn't work anymore and I have my heart set on the Lansinoh Affinity Dual Electric Breast Pump. The only problem is that it's a little out of my price range.
I have to pack a bag to bring with to the birth center. I am working on getting a CD made with my favorite songs. I also need to make sure I bring my Bible. I still haven't picked out an outfit for him to wear home.
I have to clean the house, which isn't different from any other day, but it does feel like it. I do however need to do a little extra laundry. I haven't even opened the bin of baby clothes to sort through. That I am planning on doing tomorrow, we'll see if it gets done.
I have been having a lot of sciatic nerve pain. There isn't much I can do about it, except sit on a heating pad for a little while. After I do that, I am able to get up and walk for about an hour. Then it's back to the heating pad. Some days are better than others, but it is getting worse. Sleeping is also a problem. I am up about 4-5 times a night just to pee. I am also not sleeping well because of the sciatic nerve.
I look forward to seeing the face of my newest little boy. We feel so blessed to be able to welcome him into our lives. Thank you Lord for another blessing.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
It's been a while
It has been a while since I have written anything. I have been a little busy. There is a lot going on in my life. I will try to give you a little of everything in one post. Here goes....
My sister and her husband are adopting a little boy from Russia. They have five children now, and are very excited to add another. I personally can't wait. Lots of prayers are requested for all the final approvals, that everything will go smooth. Check out her blog, Abide in me, and I in you, to get more information, and see some pictures of her family, and the little boy they are adopting.
A family in my church is also adopting. This family is adoptin two teenage girls from Columbia. They are currently in Columbia picking up their daughters. Prayers are requested for communication, because the girls speak Spanish, and the parents are learning Spanish. Check out their blog, Adopting Older Children, for more information, and pictures.
I have started homeschooling my boys now instead of waiting until the fall. I decided to do it this way, because I am having a baby in August, and I don't want to fall too far behind. Jameson and Teagen are pretty happy about it too. They love doing school stuff. I don't have that much planned for this year as it's just Kindergarten for Jameson, and Preschool for Teagen.
The subjects we are doing are;
Bible - I am combining this with a little History. We are starting at the beginning. Genesis.
Reading - Jameson is learning how to read, and Teagen is learning his letters and sounds.
Math - Both are learning to recognize and write numbers.
Art & Science - Anatomy. We will learn about the body parts and make life size posters of ourselves.
Physical Education - We live in Florida. We will be outside daily. I will be teaching the boys different excersizes. We are also looking into swimming lessons.
Gavin has learned so much in the last couple of months. He is playing peek-a-boo. It is adorable. He is also getting into everything. He opens cupboards and pulls things out. He opens the garbage can and pulls things out. He also sneaks things into the garbage. I have pulled quite a few toys out of the garbage.
All of my boys have been sick with colds lately, but Teagen has been the worst. He has been up every night for the last week coughing. I thought it was just the cold at first, but then it was a croupy cough. I decided to make an appointment with the doctor and bring him in. We'll see what happens now. I fear he may have asthma. Will they even diagnose that at three years old?
Jameson is learning to obey the first time. He is having some difficulty with this. He is doing a lot of whining and complaining. We are working on that too. Mommy has been slacking on lots of stuff. Time to get moving.
I am planning on making meals and freezing them. This will hopefully get rid of lots of stress for that first week after the baby comes. Now I just need to figure out what I am gonna want to eat that week. ;)
My sister and her husband are adopting a little boy from Russia. They have five children now, and are very excited to add another. I personally can't wait. Lots of prayers are requested for all the final approvals, that everything will go smooth. Check out her blog, Abide in me, and I in you, to get more information, and see some pictures of her family, and the little boy they are adopting.
A family in my church is also adopting. This family is adoptin two teenage girls from Columbia. They are currently in Columbia picking up their daughters. Prayers are requested for communication, because the girls speak Spanish, and the parents are learning Spanish. Check out their blog, Adopting Older Children, for more information, and pictures.
I have started homeschooling my boys now instead of waiting until the fall. I decided to do it this way, because I am having a baby in August, and I don't want to fall too far behind. Jameson and Teagen are pretty happy about it too. They love doing school stuff. I don't have that much planned for this year as it's just Kindergarten for Jameson, and Preschool for Teagen.
The subjects we are doing are;
Bible - I am combining this with a little History. We are starting at the beginning. Genesis.
Reading - Jameson is learning how to read, and Teagen is learning his letters and sounds.
Math - Both are learning to recognize and write numbers.
Art & Science - Anatomy. We will learn about the body parts and make life size posters of ourselves.
Physical Education - We live in Florida. We will be outside daily. I will be teaching the boys different excersizes. We are also looking into swimming lessons.
Gavin has learned so much in the last couple of months. He is playing peek-a-boo. It is adorable. He is also getting into everything. He opens cupboards and pulls things out. He opens the garbage can and pulls things out. He also sneaks things into the garbage. I have pulled quite a few toys out of the garbage.
All of my boys have been sick with colds lately, but Teagen has been the worst. He has been up every night for the last week coughing. I thought it was just the cold at first, but then it was a croupy cough. I decided to make an appointment with the doctor and bring him in. We'll see what happens now. I fear he may have asthma. Will they even diagnose that at three years old?
Jameson is learning to obey the first time. He is having some difficulty with this. He is doing a lot of whining and complaining. We are working on that too. Mommy has been slacking on lots of stuff. Time to get moving.
I am planning on making meals and freezing them. This will hopefully get rid of lots of stress for that first week after the baby comes. Now I just need to figure out what I am gonna want to eat that week. ;)
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Father's Day
There are so many great fathers out there. My husband, for one. I am so grateful that he is involved in our kids' lives. He loves to hang out with them. He is always looking for something fun to do with them. He will break out the legos and lay on the floor to build something with them. He runs around the park, and tries to fit in all those areas that are not made for adults. I thank my "Heavenly Father" for joining my husband and I. I love you Scott. May God continue to bless you with the love and devotion you have for children.
Another great father in my life is, of course, my own father. My father, is not just a father, he is my dad. My dad taught me many things. I will only name a few here.
He taught me what a real man should be. He lived his life treating my mom and other women with respect, and showing me what I should look for in a man of my own. I don't even want to think of where I would be today without the example and instruction my dad laid out before me in my childhood. He showed me what a Godly relationship is.
My dad has always been a builder. He is very keen on making things. He does a great job too. I have many memories of holding boards for my dad so they wouldn't fall to the floor while he was cutting them. He was the one who taught me about measurement and fractions. I loved the time we were able to spend together while he was building something. To this day, every time I smell wood, or sawdust in particular, I think of my dad. He has made so many things that I cherish. The cradle that I rock my babies to sleep in was made by him. The rocking horse that my boys ride and pretend they are cowboys was made by him. The rack that I keep my coffee mugs on was made by him.
I remember my dad telling my sisters and I to get fire wood from the backyard for the fireplace. We all walked back there and piled some logs into our arms. There was my dad when we turned around to walk back inside. "No." he said. We were doing it wrong. We were supposed to carry the logs differently. We had to take the log by its end and carry one in each hand. I still haven't figured out exactly why he made us do it that way. All I know is that there were less spiders crawling on me.
My dad was always writing these little poems. He would write something to my mom on special occasions, or for no reason at all, just to let her know she was loved. He wrote me a note on my wedding day that I will keep forever. This is what he has passed on to me. I enjoy writing. I would always write a note to my parents to apologize to them for my bad behavior, or for whatever. I am told that they would come home from a night out, expecting to find a note from me. I wasn't always bad, I just liked to write.
Dad, you have taught me so many things, and I am going to teach my kids those same things. You have guided me in the right direction. You have encouraged me. You have corrected me. You have supported me.
I LOVE YOU DAD!!!
Thank you Lord, for placing this man in my life. Amen.
Of course, on Father's Day, we can not forget our Heavenly Father. The one who has given life to us all. The one who has saved us from our sins. The one who loved us so much, that He gave His one and only son to die on the cross, so that we might be saved. Let us not forget this tomorrow when it is no longer Fathers Day, but let us remember this every day, and give thanks to God.
Another great father in my life is, of course, my own father. My father, is not just a father, he is my dad. My dad taught me many things. I will only name a few here.
He taught me what a real man should be. He lived his life treating my mom and other women with respect, and showing me what I should look for in a man of my own. I don't even want to think of where I would be today without the example and instruction my dad laid out before me in my childhood. He showed me what a Godly relationship is.
My dad has always been a builder. He is very keen on making things. He does a great job too. I have many memories of holding boards for my dad so they wouldn't fall to the floor while he was cutting them. He was the one who taught me about measurement and fractions. I loved the time we were able to spend together while he was building something. To this day, every time I smell wood, or sawdust in particular, I think of my dad. He has made so many things that I cherish. The cradle that I rock my babies to sleep in was made by him. The rocking horse that my boys ride and pretend they are cowboys was made by him. The rack that I keep my coffee mugs on was made by him.
I remember my dad telling my sisters and I to get fire wood from the backyard for the fireplace. We all walked back there and piled some logs into our arms. There was my dad when we turned around to walk back inside. "No." he said. We were doing it wrong. We were supposed to carry the logs differently. We had to take the log by its end and carry one in each hand. I still haven't figured out exactly why he made us do it that way. All I know is that there were less spiders crawling on me.
My dad was always writing these little poems. He would write something to my mom on special occasions, or for no reason at all, just to let her know she was loved. He wrote me a note on my wedding day that I will keep forever. This is what he has passed on to me. I enjoy writing. I would always write a note to my parents to apologize to them for my bad behavior, or for whatever. I am told that they would come home from a night out, expecting to find a note from me. I wasn't always bad, I just liked to write.
Dad, you have taught me so many things, and I am going to teach my kids those same things. You have guided me in the right direction. You have encouraged me. You have corrected me. You have supported me.
I LOVE YOU DAD!!!
Thank you Lord, for placing this man in my life. Amen.
Of course, on Father's Day, we can not forget our Heavenly Father. The one who has given life to us all. The one who has saved us from our sins. The one who loved us so much, that He gave His one and only son to die on the cross, so that we might be saved. Let us not forget this tomorrow when it is no longer Fathers Day, but let us remember this every day, and give thanks to God.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Lord Change My Attitude
The women at church are doing a Bible Study called "Lord Change My Attitude". It is a great study. I am learning a lot, and applying it to my life. There have been many changes in my view of my life. Check this out.
The first part of the study = Complaining!
I never realized how much I complain. I am now aware of it though. I am working on not only noticing when I am complaining, but what I am complaining about. Is it something that really matters? Is there anything I can do to change the circumstances? If the answer to both of these is NO, then I need to drop the matter. It has been working.
I have also been working on staying positive. I would always have considered myself to be a glass is half full type of person, but recently realized that I am not. I have a hard time dealing with the little things that don't follow "MY" plans. The thing is, it is not "MY" plans that matter at all, it's "GOD'S" plans. I am always trying to take control and run my life the way God wants me to. What I need to do, is let God run my life. I need to follow where God leads. This is not easy, but nobody is perfect, right? I am trying to use the WWJD (What Would Jesus Do?) way of looking at things. I know it has become a cliche, but it works. We are, after all, supposed to strive to be more "Christ Like".
Here is an example.
I was at a weekly Bible study, and having a great time. I had the boys with me, and Scott was out of town working. I returned to my car after the study and proceeded to buckle the boys into their seats. While doing this, I was talking to a couple other women from church. We were all standing on the passenger side of the van talking. One of the women, started pointing at my van. I thought she was pointing at a bug or something, and was preparing to run. (I don't like bugs.) Then I realized it wasn't a bug, but my front driver's side window. The window was not where it was supposed to be. It was shattered all over the front of the van. There wasn't any glass in the back, so I didn't even realize it when buckling the boys in. I climbed back into the car to unbuckle the boys and get them out of the car. I knew it would probably take a while to deal with this problem. The boys went inside with some amazing young ladies who kept them occupied while I talked to police.
I think I may have been in a state of shock, because I didn't really even think about calling the police. I didn't really know what to do. Thankfully I had some people there that were thinking straight. It took a while for the reality of what had happened to sink in. I realized my purse was gone. (I know, I was crazy and not thinking when I decided to leave my purse in the car. But, I left it there anyway.)
When the officer arrived, I was able to talk to him without any panic or anything. I told him everything I could think of that was in my purse and wallet. There will be a report filed, and I received a case number. After talking to the officer, I was able to request fingerprinting. He seemed to think it was a waste of time, but I insisted. I just had this feeling that there would have to be fingerprints. After waiting a while, the crime scene unit arrived. The guy that dusted my van, was very helpful and informative. He was able to answer many of my questions. After he left, I had help cleaning most of the glass out of the front seat, so I could drive home.
I am very grateful for the help I received, and the prayers.
When I arrived home, I unloaded the boys and put them to bed. It was really easy to get them to fall asleep, because it was so late. I had a plastic bag taped over the window, to prevent rain getting inside. I was a little worried about my oldest, Jameson. He was asking questions about what had happened. I tried to answer them the best I could, but he has a one track mind. "Why did someone break the window? Why did they take your purse? Will they bring the purse back? Will they break the window at home?" This little boys questions are my biggest concern. He doesn't understand what happened, or why. He also has bad dreams regularly. He is the one that crawls into our bed in the middle of the night. The only solution was to explain to him that Jesus is always with him. We prayed together, and I really think he understands.
That night I checked my bank account, and found that my debit card had already been used. I talked to the bank and was able to cancel my card and order a new one. I was later able to talk to the fraud department and get my money back. I have replaced almost everything that I lost. There are a few phone numbers from business cards that I will need to collect again, but other than that, everything is replaceable. The next day, my window was replaced, and my car vacuumed. I have already purchased a new wallet, that I like even better than the old one. Everything is working out, and I have no complaints.
I was surprised at how calm I have been through this whole ordeal. I couldn't have done it without the comfort of my savior Christ Jesus. He has been my calm. Everything that happened could have been worse. The first thing that popped into my head when this happened, what that I had quite a few tracks in my purse. I was hoping and praying that whoever took it, would take the time to read them. I know it's a long shot, but God does work in mysterious ways. It is by His grace that we are saved. I pray still, that he will work on that person and speak to them and change their heart.
This is one lesson I will not soon forget. I have prayed for my enemy, willingly. I actually wanted to. There were no hidden motives. I did want my purse back, and my window fixed, but that's not why I was praying. I was praying because I knew this person didn't know Jesus like I do.
Do you know Jesus?
I can't wait to continue in the Bible study of "Lord Change My Attitude". There are more areas of my life that could use changing, and I am excited to learn more.
The first part of the study = Complaining!
I never realized how much I complain. I am now aware of it though. I am working on not only noticing when I am complaining, but what I am complaining about. Is it something that really matters? Is there anything I can do to change the circumstances? If the answer to both of these is NO, then I need to drop the matter. It has been working.
I have also been working on staying positive. I would always have considered myself to be a glass is half full type of person, but recently realized that I am not. I have a hard time dealing with the little things that don't follow "MY" plans. The thing is, it is not "MY" plans that matter at all, it's "GOD'S" plans. I am always trying to take control and run my life the way God wants me to. What I need to do, is let God run my life. I need to follow where God leads. This is not easy, but nobody is perfect, right? I am trying to use the WWJD (What Would Jesus Do?) way of looking at things. I know it has become a cliche, but it works. We are, after all, supposed to strive to be more "Christ Like".
Here is an example.
I was at a weekly Bible study, and having a great time. I had the boys with me, and Scott was out of town working. I returned to my car after the study and proceeded to buckle the boys into their seats. While doing this, I was talking to a couple other women from church. We were all standing on the passenger side of the van talking. One of the women, started pointing at my van. I thought she was pointing at a bug or something, and was preparing to run. (I don't like bugs.) Then I realized it wasn't a bug, but my front driver's side window. The window was not where it was supposed to be. It was shattered all over the front of the van. There wasn't any glass in the back, so I didn't even realize it when buckling the boys in. I climbed back into the car to unbuckle the boys and get them out of the car. I knew it would probably take a while to deal with this problem. The boys went inside with some amazing young ladies who kept them occupied while I talked to police.
I think I may have been in a state of shock, because I didn't really even think about calling the police. I didn't really know what to do. Thankfully I had some people there that were thinking straight. It took a while for the reality of what had happened to sink in. I realized my purse was gone. (I know, I was crazy and not thinking when I decided to leave my purse in the car. But, I left it there anyway.)
When the officer arrived, I was able to talk to him without any panic or anything. I told him everything I could think of that was in my purse and wallet. There will be a report filed, and I received a case number. After talking to the officer, I was able to request fingerprinting. He seemed to think it was a waste of time, but I insisted. I just had this feeling that there would have to be fingerprints. After waiting a while, the crime scene unit arrived. The guy that dusted my van, was very helpful and informative. He was able to answer many of my questions. After he left, I had help cleaning most of the glass out of the front seat, so I could drive home.
I am very grateful for the help I received, and the prayers.
When I arrived home, I unloaded the boys and put them to bed. It was really easy to get them to fall asleep, because it was so late. I had a plastic bag taped over the window, to prevent rain getting inside. I was a little worried about my oldest, Jameson. He was asking questions about what had happened. I tried to answer them the best I could, but he has a one track mind. "Why did someone break the window? Why did they take your purse? Will they bring the purse back? Will they break the window at home?" This little boys questions are my biggest concern. He doesn't understand what happened, or why. He also has bad dreams regularly. He is the one that crawls into our bed in the middle of the night. The only solution was to explain to him that Jesus is always with him. We prayed together, and I really think he understands.
That night I checked my bank account, and found that my debit card had already been used. I talked to the bank and was able to cancel my card and order a new one. I was later able to talk to the fraud department and get my money back. I have replaced almost everything that I lost. There are a few phone numbers from business cards that I will need to collect again, but other than that, everything is replaceable. The next day, my window was replaced, and my car vacuumed. I have already purchased a new wallet, that I like even better than the old one. Everything is working out, and I have no complaints.
I was surprised at how calm I have been through this whole ordeal. I couldn't have done it without the comfort of my savior Christ Jesus. He has been my calm. Everything that happened could have been worse. The first thing that popped into my head when this happened, what that I had quite a few tracks in my purse. I was hoping and praying that whoever took it, would take the time to read them. I know it's a long shot, but God does work in mysterious ways. It is by His grace that we are saved. I pray still, that he will work on that person and speak to them and change their heart.
This is one lesson I will not soon forget. I have prayed for my enemy, willingly. I actually wanted to. There were no hidden motives. I did want my purse back, and my window fixed, but that's not why I was praying. I was praying because I knew this person didn't know Jesus like I do.
Do you know Jesus?
I can't wait to continue in the Bible study of "Lord Change My Attitude". There are more areas of my life that could use changing, and I am excited to learn more.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Mother's Day
This is not the first Mother's Day that I have been able to celebrate as a mother, but it is the first that I am celebrating with my mother 2000 miles away. This Mother's Day is different.
Today at church, there were a few people that shared why their mom's were special. All I could do was think about my mom. This is the first Mother's Day that I am not going to see my mom. I had always taken for granted the fact that I only lived a few miles from my mom. We talked on the phone every once in a while, and didn't really hang out, or see each other very often. Moving across the country has, in a weird way, brought me closer to my mom. I have talked to her on the phone more often, and gotten to know her more. I love my mom so much. I miss my mom.
When I was growing up, there were many times that I was angry with my mom. She would punish me when I needed it, and sometimes I really needed it. I always thought she was being so unfair, and I would let her know that. I remember her saying something like "just wait until you have kids." That never made any sense, until now. I now have three boys, and another boy on the way. When I have a question about any of them, whether it be behavior, health, or anything, I call my mom. Just the other night, my youngest had hives. He is allergic to something. All I could think was I need my mom. I love technology. Even though I wasn't able to run to my mom, I was able to call her and get some great advice. Thank you so much mom. I love you.
I am sorry mom, for all the times I disobeyed, and all the times I was a lot of trouble. I know there were quite a few. I came to a realization when I became a mother, that you were never trying to hinder, or hurt me, but you were loving me. You were protecting me.
You see, mothers have a very special bond with their children. They are connected. A child is completely dependent on it's mother to survive from conception to birth. After birth, a child is still dependent on it's mother, but others (like dad, we can't forget him) are there to help out. That bond that is formed between mother and child is never broken. There is an everlasting connection. This bond grows stronger throughout life. When the child is an adult, the bond is still there. I have learned this recently. The advice and just everyday conversations I have with my mother are extremely valuable to me.
God knew what he was doing when he made women. He gave women a strength endure all the joys and fears that go along with being a mom. He gave women that everlasting bond to their children. God has blessed me with my mom.
Thank you mom...
-for yelling at me when I needed it.
-for punishing me when I needed it.
-for hugging me when I needed it.
-for teaching me to sew.
-for making me clean my room.
-for loving me.
-for life.
I love you mom. You mean so much to me. I wish I could give you a hug right now.
Lord, thank you for my mom.
Today at church, there were a few people that shared why their mom's were special. All I could do was think about my mom. This is the first Mother's Day that I am not going to see my mom. I had always taken for granted the fact that I only lived a few miles from my mom. We talked on the phone every once in a while, and didn't really hang out, or see each other very often. Moving across the country has, in a weird way, brought me closer to my mom. I have talked to her on the phone more often, and gotten to know her more. I love my mom so much. I miss my mom.
When I was growing up, there were many times that I was angry with my mom. She would punish me when I needed it, and sometimes I really needed it. I always thought she was being so unfair, and I would let her know that. I remember her saying something like "just wait until you have kids." That never made any sense, until now. I now have three boys, and another boy on the way. When I have a question about any of them, whether it be behavior, health, or anything, I call my mom. Just the other night, my youngest had hives. He is allergic to something. All I could think was I need my mom. I love technology. Even though I wasn't able to run to my mom, I was able to call her and get some great advice. Thank you so much mom. I love you.
I am sorry mom, for all the times I disobeyed, and all the times I was a lot of trouble. I know there were quite a few. I came to a realization when I became a mother, that you were never trying to hinder, or hurt me, but you were loving me. You were protecting me.
You see, mothers have a very special bond with their children. They are connected. A child is completely dependent on it's mother to survive from conception to birth. After birth, a child is still dependent on it's mother, but others (like dad, we can't forget him) are there to help out. That bond that is formed between mother and child is never broken. There is an everlasting connection. This bond grows stronger throughout life. When the child is an adult, the bond is still there. I have learned this recently. The advice and just everyday conversations I have with my mother are extremely valuable to me.
God knew what he was doing when he made women. He gave women a strength endure all the joys and fears that go along with being a mom. He gave women that everlasting bond to their children. God has blessed me with my mom.
Thank you mom...
-for yelling at me when I needed it.
-for punishing me when I needed it.
-for hugging me when I needed it.
-for teaching me to sew.
-for making me clean my room.
-for loving me.
-for life.
I love you mom. You mean so much to me. I wish I could give you a hug right now.
Lord, thank you for my mom.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
On My Mind
Things that are on my mind today.
-"Lord Change My Attitude" I need to do the lesson for my Bible study.
-I need to stop complaining and instead be thankful.
-Grateful my boys are singing "Blessed Be The Name Of The Lord".
-Gavin's trip to the ER last night, and what could he be allergic to? All eyes on Gavin.
-Have to make snacks for church tomorrow. What to make, what to make?
-Want to sit down, sciatic nerve is bothering me.
-Need CHOCOLATE!
-Get newspaper today to get early edition with coupons for cheaper. YAY!
-Sweep and mop tile floor. Crumbs from breakfast cereal sticking to bottom of feet. Gross!
-Why are boys so loud?
-Sleep!?!
-Train children! They are doing great with this, and I find it fun.
-What should I make for lunch?
-What should I make for dinner?
-I should really do meal planning to eliminate the last minute thinking.
These are the things running through my head right now. There are more, but I am sure you don't want to know about all of them. I was talking to Scott recently about how not fair it is that men can completely empty their minds and think about nothing. Not Fair. I will lay in bed at night, listening to Scott snoring. It's really not that bad, I just needed to show that he was sleeping. He will be sound asleep, while things race through my mind, and I end up getting up about three or four times to make sure the door is locked for the 12th time, to check on the boys and make sure they are still asleep, to write a note to myself about something that needs to be done tomorrow, and more. Does anyone else have this problem, or am I alone? I guess I shouldn't wonder why I'm so tired in the morning.
-"Lord Change My Attitude" I need to do the lesson for my Bible study.
-I need to stop complaining and instead be thankful.
-Grateful my boys are singing "Blessed Be The Name Of The Lord".
-Gavin's trip to the ER last night, and what could he be allergic to? All eyes on Gavin.
-Have to make snacks for church tomorrow. What to make, what to make?
-Want to sit down, sciatic nerve is bothering me.
-Need CHOCOLATE!
-Get newspaper today to get early edition with coupons for cheaper. YAY!
-Sweep and mop tile floor. Crumbs from breakfast cereal sticking to bottom of feet. Gross!
-Why are boys so loud?
-Sleep!?!
-Train children! They are doing great with this, and I find it fun.
-What should I make for lunch?
-What should I make for dinner?
-I should really do meal planning to eliminate the last minute thinking.
These are the things running through my head right now. There are more, but I am sure you don't want to know about all of them. I was talking to Scott recently about how not fair it is that men can completely empty their minds and think about nothing. Not Fair. I will lay in bed at night, listening to Scott snoring. It's really not that bad, I just needed to show that he was sleeping. He will be sound asleep, while things race through my mind, and I end up getting up about three or four times to make sure the door is locked for the 12th time, to check on the boys and make sure they are still asleep, to write a note to myself about something that needs to be done tomorrow, and more. Does anyone else have this problem, or am I alone? I guess I shouldn't wonder why I'm so tired in the morning.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Kids Are Sponges
My kids are no different from your kids, they seem to hear everything that is said. They absorb knowledge at an amazing rate. I have started to take advantage of this amazing phenomenon by teaching them some Bible verses to memorize. What I have realized, is that they don't really need to memorize Bible verses. They are able to memorize entire chapters of the Bible. Jameson knows some of the stories with such accuracy, that he even uses some rather large words when he recites it. I love this.
Both Jameson and Teagen are able to repeat songs that we sing at church on Sundays, word for word. They will be sitting in their play room singing. They will start fighting, but it's usually over which song to sing next. Some of their favorites are "Blessed Be Your Name" and "Let It Rise".
Jameson, who is 5, is at the point where he is starting to apply the lessons from the Bible stories we read to his life. He will point things out as we go through our days that remind him a certain story. Recently, we were looking for a playground. We were driving around and found quite a few sports complexes, but we were looking for a playground. When we finally did find one, Jameson said, "God made that playground. Then He looked at it and said it was good." We had been talking about how God made everything. In a matter of hours he went from asking me if God made cars, and if God made trees, to telling me that "God made that playground."
Jameson also has some interesting questions about God. Just out of curiosity, if anyone knows how to answer a five year olds questions about God, let me know. Here are a few that we have heard recently.
How old is God?
When is God's birthday?
Does God eat?
I am so glad that almost everything that they do in work and in play brings up more questions about God. I just wish I knew the answers.
Jameson also asked God in his prayers tonight for a different Bible so he could understand the words. I told him after his prayer that to understand the words he has to learn how to read.
Both Jameson and Teagen are able to repeat songs that we sing at church on Sundays, word for word. They will be sitting in their play room singing. They will start fighting, but it's usually over which song to sing next. Some of their favorites are "Blessed Be Your Name" and "Let It Rise".
Jameson, who is 5, is at the point where he is starting to apply the lessons from the Bible stories we read to his life. He will point things out as we go through our days that remind him a certain story. Recently, we were looking for a playground. We were driving around and found quite a few sports complexes, but we were looking for a playground. When we finally did find one, Jameson said, "God made that playground. Then He looked at it and said it was good." We had been talking about how God made everything. In a matter of hours he went from asking me if God made cars, and if God made trees, to telling me that "God made that playground."
Jameson also has some interesting questions about God. Just out of curiosity, if anyone knows how to answer a five year olds questions about God, let me know. Here are a few that we have heard recently.
How old is God?
When is God's birthday?
Does God eat?
I am so glad that almost everything that they do in work and in play brings up more questions about God. I just wish I knew the answers.
Jameson also asked God in his prayers tonight for a different Bible so he could understand the words. I told him after his prayer that to understand the words he has to learn how to read.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Done Moving
We are finally all settled into our new place. We have a few misc. boxes to unpack still, but we had an amazingly smooth move. In the past when we have moved, it was sure to take a few days or even a week at times. This time, we had everything moved in one day. Of course, this time we had quite a few extra hands to help out. Thank you so much to all the strong guys that came and donated their time and muscles to us.
Our new place is amazing. We had a few minor setbacks the first couple of days, but we are adjusting fine.
We do have an amazing array of wildlife at this new place. We have millions of mini toads. It is hard not to step on them in the grass. They are also finding a way to get inside. At least the kids are having a blast catching them. We also have some weird looking caterpillars. They are hairy and ugly. Jameson caught a few of them and is watching their life process unfold before his eyes. It is actually pretty exciting just to watch his expressions as I try to explain what is happening. Science is going to be a fun subject for school. We also have a new friend. We think it's a baby iguana. It has left a few legless frogs on our patio. The boys wanted to catch it for a pet. Scott mentioned that we should catch it too. I am not to sure about all the reptiles here, but I'm am sure that I will get used to it. We haven't named our iguana friend yet, but I will let you know when we do.
Our new place is amazing. We had a few minor setbacks the first couple of days, but we are adjusting fine.
We do have an amazing array of wildlife at this new place. We have millions of mini toads. It is hard not to step on them in the grass. They are also finding a way to get inside. At least the kids are having a blast catching them. We also have some weird looking caterpillars. They are hairy and ugly. Jameson caught a few of them and is watching their life process unfold before his eyes. It is actually pretty exciting just to watch his expressions as I try to explain what is happening. Science is going to be a fun subject for school. We also have a new friend. We think it's a baby iguana. It has left a few legless frogs on our patio. The boys wanted to catch it for a pet. Scott mentioned that we should catch it too. I am not to sure about all the reptiles here, but I'm am sure that I will get used to it. We haven't named our iguana friend yet, but I will let you know when we do.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
It's a .......
Don't you just love it when you are waiting to hear some news, and who ever may be delivering that news is taking their dear, sweet time? I don't. You probably don't either. Okay, here it is, plain and simple.
It's a.......
BOY!
That's right. Boy number four is on the way. No, we are not disappointed. We are very happy. I am still not sure I would know what to do with a girl. God know me best, and He knew another boy is exactly what I need right now.
Name still to be determined.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Ultrasound? and Moving!
I had an ultrasound scheduled this morning for 8:45am. I was so excited I could barely sleep all night. I am not sure why I scheduled it for so early. We live nearly an hour away from the office where the appointment was, which meant we needed to leave around 7:15am. Extra time added to account for morning rush hour traffic. I actually had to wake up my kids. Not fun. If your kids sleep past 7am, the rule is, don't wake them up. Having to wake them almost made me cry. Although, I do cry very easily these days. Hormones!
We all piled into the van, with cereal in plastic baggies for breakfast, and sippy cups full of milk. I was drinking water like you are supposed to do before an ultrasound. Drink water until you are about to explode. Then they don't let you go to the bathroom. You get to lay there, while someone is pressing on your bladder, trying not to pee.
There was no traffic. Amazing. It seems that whenever Scott and I drive somewhere together we get there in record time. When we drive separetely, Scott is stopped by lights and weird traffic, while I get the smooth drive. I'm not sure why, but it always seems to work out this way.
I keep changing the subject, sorry. Pregnancy brain is so fun. We arrived at the appointment early (about 8:30am), and had to fill out some papers, sign HIPPA forms and all that jazz. Then we waited, and waited, and waited. I was really confused as to why they were running so far behind that early in the morning. Finally at about 9:15 they called my name. I was so excited I didn't even mind that I waited so long. When we stood up, the lady who called my name gave me a really weird look and said, "You can't bring your kids back there."
I was really confused, and kind of hurt by that. This is supposed to be an extremely happy moment in your life that you should be able to share with your entire family, and I couldn't bring my kids. What? If I couldn't bring my kids, then my husband wouldn't be there either. He would have to wait there with the kids while I went in alone. When I asked her why, she told me it was because they didn't want to expose the kids to any unnecessary radiation. Now I was really confused. An ultrasound doesn't have any radiation. However, this particualar office did have other uses though. They did xrays and ct's and more. I did understand that there was radiation, but if it wasn't safe for my kids, then it wasn't safe for me either. I won't even mention how unsafe it would be for my unborn baby. Okay, I did mention it, but come on. I really hope you all agree with me on this. I really hope I was not being too picky when I told them that I was not going to have the ultrasound done there at all if it wasn't safe.
I was really bummed. We left and drove back home. Yes, I felt like we had wasted our time and gas on an appointment that we didn't really have. I really wanted to know if the baby I am carrying is a boy or girl. I really wanted to see it. I was really bummed. I cried. Yes, I am so emotional with this pregnancy it's crazy. I couldn't help it. The tears just started flowing. The boys were amazing though. They were very well behaved and listened while we were in the waiting room. They were instrumental in cheering me up in the van. Literally and vocally. They were singing almost the whole way back home. What were they singing you ask. Well of course the song we sang at church yesterday. "Blessed Be The Name Of The Lord" They are both completely tone deaf, just like their mother. That didn't matter though. I'm sure Jesus was smiling. It brought a smile to my face as well. The tears stopped, and I was able to relax. Gotta love it when it's the kids that know exactly how to calm you down.
We got home and started making phone calls to anywhere and everywhere it might be possible to get an ultrasound. Every place we called was telling us that #1. We couldn't bring the kids in with us. or #2. We couldn't get in for an appointment for a couple weeks. Finally we called the local hospital. Yes, they will allow the kids to be there. Yes, they can get me in tomorrow. YAY!!! My stress level dropped.
Then my stress level rose again. Why, you might ask. Well, we got a phone call today from the apartments we are moving into. They have an opening for us to move in. YAY!!! It's for Friday. UH OH!!! We are not packed yet. I will be spending the next couple of days doing nothing but packing. We have been telling the boys that we are moving again, for a few weeks now. We're trying to prepare them so it won't come as a surprise. They are really excited. When we told them that the big day was Friday, they made sure all their toys were picked up and put away. They didn't want to move without their toys. Adorable!
Today was a very eventful and interesting day. I will let you all know how the ultrasound and the move goes soon. I may not have time to post again for another week, but rest assured that I will be posting pics of the new place and hopefully some pics of the ultrasound.
We all piled into the van, with cereal in plastic baggies for breakfast, and sippy cups full of milk. I was drinking water like you are supposed to do before an ultrasound. Drink water until you are about to explode. Then they don't let you go to the bathroom. You get to lay there, while someone is pressing on your bladder, trying not to pee.
There was no traffic. Amazing. It seems that whenever Scott and I drive somewhere together we get there in record time. When we drive separetely, Scott is stopped by lights and weird traffic, while I get the smooth drive. I'm not sure why, but it always seems to work out this way.
I keep changing the subject, sorry. Pregnancy brain is so fun. We arrived at the appointment early (about 8:30am), and had to fill out some papers, sign HIPPA forms and all that jazz. Then we waited, and waited, and waited. I was really confused as to why they were running so far behind that early in the morning. Finally at about 9:15 they called my name. I was so excited I didn't even mind that I waited so long. When we stood up, the lady who called my name gave me a really weird look and said, "You can't bring your kids back there."
I was really confused, and kind of hurt by that. This is supposed to be an extremely happy moment in your life that you should be able to share with your entire family, and I couldn't bring my kids. What? If I couldn't bring my kids, then my husband wouldn't be there either. He would have to wait there with the kids while I went in alone. When I asked her why, she told me it was because they didn't want to expose the kids to any unnecessary radiation. Now I was really confused. An ultrasound doesn't have any radiation. However, this particualar office did have other uses though. They did xrays and ct's and more. I did understand that there was radiation, but if it wasn't safe for my kids, then it wasn't safe for me either. I won't even mention how unsafe it would be for my unborn baby. Okay, I did mention it, but come on. I really hope you all agree with me on this. I really hope I was not being too picky when I told them that I was not going to have the ultrasound done there at all if it wasn't safe.
I was really bummed. We left and drove back home. Yes, I felt like we had wasted our time and gas on an appointment that we didn't really have. I really wanted to know if the baby I am carrying is a boy or girl. I really wanted to see it. I was really bummed. I cried. Yes, I am so emotional with this pregnancy it's crazy. I couldn't help it. The tears just started flowing. The boys were amazing though. They were very well behaved and listened while we were in the waiting room. They were instrumental in cheering me up in the van. Literally and vocally. They were singing almost the whole way back home. What were they singing you ask. Well of course the song we sang at church yesterday. "Blessed Be The Name Of The Lord" They are both completely tone deaf, just like their mother. That didn't matter though. I'm sure Jesus was smiling. It brought a smile to my face as well. The tears stopped, and I was able to relax. Gotta love it when it's the kids that know exactly how to calm you down.
We got home and started making phone calls to anywhere and everywhere it might be possible to get an ultrasound. Every place we called was telling us that #1. We couldn't bring the kids in with us. or #2. We couldn't get in for an appointment for a couple weeks. Finally we called the local hospital. Yes, they will allow the kids to be there. Yes, they can get me in tomorrow. YAY!!! My stress level dropped.
Then my stress level rose again. Why, you might ask. Well, we got a phone call today from the apartments we are moving into. They have an opening for us to move in. YAY!!! It's for Friday. UH OH!!! We are not packed yet. I will be spending the next couple of days doing nothing but packing. We have been telling the boys that we are moving again, for a few weeks now. We're trying to prepare them so it won't come as a surprise. They are really excited. When we told them that the big day was Friday, they made sure all their toys were picked up and put away. They didn't want to move without their toys. Adorable!
Today was a very eventful and interesting day. I will let you all know how the ultrasound and the move goes soon. I may not have time to post again for another week, but rest assured that I will be posting pics of the new place and hopefully some pics of the ultrasound.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Moving
We are moving again!!! Yes, we have moved almost every year since we got married. The reasons behind moving have been location and money. We seem to keep finding places that will save us money on either rent or gas.
"If we move closer to work, we will spend less in gas."
"If we pay less in rent, we can pay off more debt."
"If we move again, it will be into a house."
Yes, all these quotes are things we have said. None of them have come true. We still haven't fixed our credit enough to get approved for buying a house. This next move will be the 9th place we have lived in the almost 8 years we have been married. For Jameson, who is 5, this will be the 7th place he will call home. We would really like to stop all the mayhem. Although, if you ever need tips on how to pack boxes to move, or how to pack a moving truck, we are the ones to ask. We are experienced.
We are now moving again when I am pregnant, which means that I won't be able to help much. Bummer! Yes, that was sarcastic. I don't enjoy moving. It is very stressful. What I am hopeful for, is lots of strong men to help Scott. In the past he has hurt his back, due to lifting heavy stuff.
I am very grateful for this move. Our last move relocated us across the country approx. 2000 miles. This move will be approx. 40 miles. We are moving closer to our church family. We have grown close to, and love our new family. We are rather excited about this move. Many of our things can be packed easily, due to the AMAZING organizing I did on our last move. This one will be much easier.
We are currently attending classes in "Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University". We are learning a lot, and will soon be debt free and have our finances under control. We really do want this to be our last move. We would like to purchase a house in the next few years. Yes, I know the FPU program does say not to get a loan for anything. I am praying for a miraculously large amount of cash to fall in our laps. Or, maybe we will win the lottery that we never play. Or, maybe someone will just walk up to me on the street and hand me the keys to a house. I'm sorry, I got caught up in my day dreams again. We are very excited about FPU. Things are already starting to be less stressful with our finances. We are building our emergency fund, and will soon be able to smile through any financial problems that come our way.
"If we move closer to work, we will spend less in gas."
"If we pay less in rent, we can pay off more debt."
"If we move again, it will be into a house."
Yes, all these quotes are things we have said. None of them have come true. We still haven't fixed our credit enough to get approved for buying a house. This next move will be the 9th place we have lived in the almost 8 years we have been married. For Jameson, who is 5, this will be the 7th place he will call home. We would really like to stop all the mayhem. Although, if you ever need tips on how to pack boxes to move, or how to pack a moving truck, we are the ones to ask. We are experienced.
We are now moving again when I am pregnant, which means that I won't be able to help much. Bummer! Yes, that was sarcastic. I don't enjoy moving. It is very stressful. What I am hopeful for, is lots of strong men to help Scott. In the past he has hurt his back, due to lifting heavy stuff.
I am very grateful for this move. Our last move relocated us across the country approx. 2000 miles. This move will be approx. 40 miles. We are moving closer to our church family. We have grown close to, and love our new family. We are rather excited about this move. Many of our things can be packed easily, due to the AMAZING organizing I did on our last move. This one will be much easier.
We are currently attending classes in "Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University". We are learning a lot, and will soon be debt free and have our finances under control. We really do want this to be our last move. We would like to purchase a house in the next few years. Yes, I know the FPU program does say not to get a loan for anything. I am praying for a miraculously large amount of cash to fall in our laps. Or, maybe we will win the lottery that we never play. Or, maybe someone will just walk up to me on the street and hand me the keys to a house. I'm sorry, I got caught up in my day dreams again. We are very excited about FPU. Things are already starting to be less stressful with our finances. We are building our emergency fund, and will soon be able to smile through any financial problems that come our way.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Baptism at the Beach
In the shallow water in the Atlantic Ocean is where it took place. Scott was baptized.
Because he is such a big guy, and the water was pretty shallow where we were standing, they decided to dunk him forward. It all worked out well.
He now can celebrate another birthday.
After the baptism, Scott was playing in the water with the boys. This beach was perfect for the boys. The waves were breaking on the sandbar out a little ways, so the water here was surprisingly calm. They did go play in the waves a little too.
Gavin loved the water, which was no surprise. What was a surprise was how much fun he had in the sand. He tried to eat it at first, but soon discovered that it didn't taste very good.
He kept getting up and walking. It wasn't easy walking in the sand, but he kept trying. He did a couple face plants, but he didn't give up. He just kept getting right back up again and walking back and forth.
At this beach, there is also a play area with some fountains of fresh water. The boys had a blast here too. There were a lot of people at this beach, but we still had a blast.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Singing
Teagen wanted to sing Jesus Loves Me.
Before going to bed, we have a routine of prayers, singing, and stories. The boys really have a great time singing. They usually each get to choose a song for all of us to sing. This night, Teagen wanted to sing his favorite song.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Haiti
Haiti
by Scott
This is the group that went to Haiti from our church, along with Sister Gladys and Pastor Henry, who are the owners of the Canaan Orphanage. (Sarah, Gladys, Wayne, Micaiah, (me)Scott, Jim, Pastor Bernie, Pastor Henry)
This is Haiti! Isn't it Beautiful?
Unfortunately, this is also Haiti.
After the earthquake, there were so many left homeless. This is one of the many tent cities there.
There is still a lot of destruction.
Buildings that have been destroyed are everywhere.
I believe this is a government building. Also destroyed.
More destruction.
We took a hike up the mountains, and saw some women working.
We also saw some men working.
This is a make shift gas station.
This is a market. Just slightly different than Walmart.
These are the guys riding in the back of the truck on the way to the Canaan Orphanage from the Airport.
These are some of the children at the orphanage washing clothes, and getting their hair done.
This is one of the worship services for the kids.
Here we are again while hiking in the mountains.
These are the pastors that we were speaking to.
Listening to them sing praises to God in another language was amazing. There were no instruments, but they clapped their hands in different rhythms.
Here we are praying.
I had to throw this one in, just for fun. This little boy just touched my heart. I wish I could have taken him home with me.
Another Life Changed Through God
By Scott
Four months ago I became a real believer. I called myself a Christian, but didn't live the life. I finally got my priorities straight. (1. God. 2. Family. 3. Work.) The knowledge and understanding came to me through God. I started understanding my role as a husband and father. Then God decided to let me go to Haiti. (If you know me and my job situation, it's hard to get a day off.) But, everything worked out in the end. Now my life is forever changed. God, and only God put a fire under me. In Haiti I helped my brothers with 18 different pastors, teaching the gosple and learning more about Him. Now, I can't get enough. Haiti is a beautiful country but at the same time very sad. They need God in a bad way and I believe they will get it. The country has hit rock bottom. Everyone we passed by said "Give me a dollar". They teach their children this. I went there to see how our church can help Canaan and found out that we need to help all of the country. We taught the gosple to pastors. In September we are going back. These pastors were on fire just listening, eating everything up, asking questions and ready to go out and preach. This isn't a tent revival that brings hundreds, but only a few get saved, this is a start to fix the church in Haiti. Money helps, but it's only a temporary fix. We are in it for the long haul, (The Word Of God) because once it starts it will spread like wild fire. We helped start this small fire with God on our side and expect it to continue (with prayer). I'm so excited to see what changes happen in six months with God at work. So, brothers and sisters, please pray for Haiti. Everyone needs to pray and read the Word. I'm still new at this (so is everyone really) so I don't know the answers but God wants me to speak my thoughts (for His glory).
Saturday, February 26, 2011
13 Weeks
I am now a little over 13 weeks along, and finally my morning sickness has gone away. I am still tired all the time, and dizzy some of the time. I still haven't seen a doctor yet, but I have an appointment to have a tour of a birthing center and talk to some midwives on Monday. I still need to find a sitter for the boys, but hopefully it won't be a problem. I also hope that Scott has the evening off work. I would really like him to come as well. After all, he really does need to be able to discuss this with me. I want, and need his opinion. I have been extremely emotional still, and don't know if the tears will ever stop. Today I cried when Nemo and his dad were reunited. I don't mean my eyes filled up and I blinked the tears away. They were actually running down my cheeks. This is crazy because I don't cry. (Except maybe once a year.) Here are some details, to keep you updated on everything. Hope you enjoy.
Due Date: August 31st, 2011
Symptoms: Dizzyness, Fatigue,
Cravings: I crave many things, nothing specific. What happens though is when I get what I crave I am completely disgusted by it and want something else.
Sleep: Going okay for now. I am only waking up once to pee. ;) I know you wanted to know.
Milestones: First Trimester done. No bump yet, I don't think. I can't tell if it's fat or baby. Anyway, it's not noticeable.
Movement: I think I've felt a little movement. I don't think it's too soon for this. Is it?
It's A...: Don't know yet, but don't worry, I am gonna find out. Give it another 6 weeks maybe.
Due Date: August 31st, 2011
Symptoms: Dizzyness, Fatigue,
Cravings: I crave many things, nothing specific. What happens though is when I get what I crave I am completely disgusted by it and want something else.
Sleep: Going okay for now. I am only waking up once to pee. ;) I know you wanted to know.
Milestones: First Trimester done. No bump yet, I don't think. I can't tell if it's fat or baby. Anyway, it's not noticeable.
Movement: I think I've felt a little movement. I don't think it's too soon for this. Is it?
It's A...: Don't know yet, but don't worry, I am gonna find out. Give it another 6 weeks maybe.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
My Days
I forgot to post my day. I commented on a friends blog that I would keep track of my day and post about it. Mostly for time management. I found out in this process that I waste a lot of time. I was actually trying to keep busy the whole day, and found myself bored. I decided to do only one day instead of three. I am glad though that I did this. It shows me that I am able to get everything done in one day and I still have time to do my own fun stuff. I also don't have a job outside the home, and only three kids. Even though my fourth child is on the way, there is still way to much free time for me. I think I may need some ideas on how to fill it.
The day I kept track of was Wednesday. That says a lot, because on Tuesdays, we have either Scott's Mens Bible Study, or the Family Bible Study, and on Thursdays is the Women's Bible Study. I also chose Wednesday because I totally forgot to keep track of anything on Monday and Tuesday. So, this is how my day went...
7am - Wake up, pour cereal into bowls for Jameson and Teagen, put clean dishes from dishwasher away, feed Gavin bananas and cereal and bottle, make and eat my toast and yogurt. This all takes about 1 hour amazingly.
8am - Jameson and Teagen ask for a snack. This is normal. I tell them no and they go into the playroom to play. They usually stay in here playing for a few hours. This allows me to do laundry and random pickup stuff in the living room.
10am - Gavin takes his first nap. Jameson starts school, Teagen colors. Because I don't really have to report anything for another year, school is very relaxed here. Jameson still isn't reading, so we work on letters and their sounds, and try to put some together, but he gets really confused and frustrated. Any hints?
1130am - School is done, and lunch is started. They boys are required to pick up the toys before they can eat lunch, so they spend this time in the playroom. I made mac & cheese & hotdogs for this lunch. Gavin wakes up around this time as well. I get his lunch and bottle ready.
12noon - We all eat. Then I send the boys to read books while I clean up and start loading the dishwasher again. Teagen goes down for a nap when I'm done cleaning.
1pm - Gavin is ready for another nap around 1 or 2. Once Teagen and Gavin are asleep, Jameson has a little time to watch a movie or read books by himself. I get some me time here as well. I use this time to go on the computer/internet. I also use this time to shower.
3pm - Teagen is up again now, and starts watching a movie with Jameson. Gavin will wake up soon. The boys usually don't make it through a whole movie. They end up going into the playroom in the middle. When Gavin wakes up, we will sometimes go outside to play.
530pm - I start getting dinner ready. This is when the boys are allowed to help me in the kitchen.
6pm - We eat dinner. Sometimes Scott is home from work to join us, sometimes he is working really late, and won't get home until 2am or 3am.
7pm - After dinner we all clean up, finish the dishes and start the dishwasher. Then we do some random pickup, and make sure the toys are picked up before bedtime. Every other day, we have bathtime, not today.
8pm - We get pj's on and get into bed. We always read from our Bible Story Book, and say prayer. Then we make up our own stories and share them.
10 or 11pm - I end up going to bed. Until that time, I am on the computer/internet again.
During this whole time, I realized that there are many times throughout my day that I have a lot of extra time. I was always thinking that I was so busy, and that I never had enough time to add anything else to my day. I actually have too much time. There is so much more I could do. Now, this day was really laid back. We didn't leave the house at all for appointments or anything. I am however, trying to potty train Teagen, which requires many trips to the bathroom and sitting there with him for several minutes at a time. I do waste a lot of time on the computer doing stuff that is not required, like games. I have decided that I am going to fast from my computer. I don't know for how long, but instead of getting on the computer, I am going to spend more time reading my Bible, and praying. Maybe in a few weeks I will try this again and see what, if anything, has changed.
Lesson learned!
The day I kept track of was Wednesday. That says a lot, because on Tuesdays, we have either Scott's Mens Bible Study, or the Family Bible Study, and on Thursdays is the Women's Bible Study. I also chose Wednesday because I totally forgot to keep track of anything on Monday and Tuesday. So, this is how my day went...
7am - Wake up, pour cereal into bowls for Jameson and Teagen, put clean dishes from dishwasher away, feed Gavin bananas and cereal and bottle, make and eat my toast and yogurt. This all takes about 1 hour amazingly.
8am - Jameson and Teagen ask for a snack. This is normal. I tell them no and they go into the playroom to play. They usually stay in here playing for a few hours. This allows me to do laundry and random pickup stuff in the living room.
10am - Gavin takes his first nap. Jameson starts school, Teagen colors. Because I don't really have to report anything for another year, school is very relaxed here. Jameson still isn't reading, so we work on letters and their sounds, and try to put some together, but he gets really confused and frustrated. Any hints?
1130am - School is done, and lunch is started. They boys are required to pick up the toys before they can eat lunch, so they spend this time in the playroom. I made mac & cheese & hotdogs for this lunch. Gavin wakes up around this time as well. I get his lunch and bottle ready.
12noon - We all eat. Then I send the boys to read books while I clean up and start loading the dishwasher again. Teagen goes down for a nap when I'm done cleaning.
1pm - Gavin is ready for another nap around 1 or 2. Once Teagen and Gavin are asleep, Jameson has a little time to watch a movie or read books by himself. I get some me time here as well. I use this time to go on the computer/internet. I also use this time to shower.
3pm - Teagen is up again now, and starts watching a movie with Jameson. Gavin will wake up soon. The boys usually don't make it through a whole movie. They end up going into the playroom in the middle. When Gavin wakes up, we will sometimes go outside to play.
530pm - I start getting dinner ready. This is when the boys are allowed to help me in the kitchen.
6pm - We eat dinner. Sometimes Scott is home from work to join us, sometimes he is working really late, and won't get home until 2am or 3am.
7pm - After dinner we all clean up, finish the dishes and start the dishwasher. Then we do some random pickup, and make sure the toys are picked up before bedtime. Every other day, we have bathtime, not today.
8pm - We get pj's on and get into bed. We always read from our Bible Story Book, and say prayer. Then we make up our own stories and share them.
10 or 11pm - I end up going to bed. Until that time, I am on the computer/internet again.
During this whole time, I realized that there are many times throughout my day that I have a lot of extra time. I was always thinking that I was so busy, and that I never had enough time to add anything else to my day. I actually have too much time. There is so much more I could do. Now, this day was really laid back. We didn't leave the house at all for appointments or anything. I am however, trying to potty train Teagen, which requires many trips to the bathroom and sitting there with him for several minutes at a time. I do waste a lot of time on the computer doing stuff that is not required, like games. I have decided that I am going to fast from my computer. I don't know for how long, but instead of getting on the computer, I am going to spend more time reading my Bible, and praying. Maybe in a few weeks I will try this again and see what, if anything, has changed.
Lesson learned!
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Haiti
Scott is going on a short missions trip to Haiti with a few other men from our church. They will be staying at a place called Canaan. It is an orphanage there. There is a ministry called "Never Thirst Again" that was founded by another member of our church. They have been working with Canaan for some time now.
He is extremely excited to go. He is getting everything together already. Scott is the type of guy that will pack for a trip the day before, or the morning of leaving. Seeing that Scott already has some things set aside that he is planning on bringing, and to see how excited he is, makes me so happy.
I am not exactly sure of everything they plan on doing there, but I do know that Scott is planning on sharing his testimony. He has been really excited about this as well. He wanted me to type it up for him, because I type a little faster than he does. We sat down last night, while he talked and I typed. There is still more that he wants to add, so it's not finished yet.
Scott purchased a few things for this trip already. Since there won't really be any electricity there, he bought a battery operated fan. He has a hard time sleeping in the heat, so a fan seemed necessary. He also bought a few snacks for himself.
There are so many opportunities opening up for us down here. We are so excited to see what else God has in store for our lives. Please pray for Scott while he is in Haiti, and for me and the kids as well while he is away. We will miss him, but also look forward to seeing and hearing about the work he is able to do for God. Thank you all for your support, and I will post some pics when he gets back.
He is extremely excited to go. He is getting everything together already. Scott is the type of guy that will pack for a trip the day before, or the morning of leaving. Seeing that Scott already has some things set aside that he is planning on bringing, and to see how excited he is, makes me so happy.
I am not exactly sure of everything they plan on doing there, but I do know that Scott is planning on sharing his testimony. He has been really excited about this as well. He wanted me to type it up for him, because I type a little faster than he does. We sat down last night, while he talked and I typed. There is still more that he wants to add, so it's not finished yet.
Scott purchased a few things for this trip already. Since there won't really be any electricity there, he bought a battery operated fan. He has a hard time sleeping in the heat, so a fan seemed necessary. He also bought a few snacks for himself.
There are so many opportunities opening up for us down here. We are so excited to see what else God has in store for our lives. Please pray for Scott while he is in Haiti, and for me and the kids as well while he is away. We will miss him, but also look forward to seeing and hearing about the work he is able to do for God. Thank you all for your support, and I will post some pics when he gets back.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Rats!
I realized that living here in Florida was going to be different than Minnesota. I was thinking mostly of the weather, and the insects. I didn't realize that instead of the tiny little mice that I randomly saw in MN, I would see huge rats here. I couldn't believe it. I was completely grossed out. I will have to tell you the whole story.
Scott and I decided to rearrange the living room. We cleared all the furniture away from the second patio door. We still don't use this door, because it just doesn't slide right, but it was great to finally have some more light in the livingroom. We absolutely love the new set up. I may just take some pictures to share with you later.
Now that the shades were able to be opened to let the light in, they are. We love being able to sit on the couch and actually see outside. It's great. We were sitting watching a movie one afternoon, and I suddenly screamed. Yes, I screamed. I glanced outside, into our patio and saw something moving. We have our washing machine and dryer in the patio, which is where I saw this huge rat crawling. By the time Scott looked out there, the rat was gone. We sat there staring in disbelief for a couple minutes, and saw two more. I couldn't believe it. Where did they come from? Why were they there? Is this normal here? I hope not!
We called the apartment office, and they said it wasn't an emergency because they were outside. They would have an exterminator come by on Monday. It was Friday, so I was kinda happy that I didn't have to do any laundry for a few days.
On Monday the exterminator stopped by and set some traps. He used the wooden ones that snap. Now, I have used these before, but I used the ones that are like three inches long. The ones that he was setting were about a foot long. I was not going to be the one to check them later, and made sure this guy knew that. He said he would be back on Wednesday to check the traps and take care of anything that was caught in them. He told me how the rats got there in the first place.
We went out of town over Christmas. We didn't use our washer for a couple weeks. Because there was no water running through the pipes, the rats were able to climb up from the sewer, and chew through the rubber hose attached to the drain on the washer. We were wondering where all that water was coming from. ;) We bought a new piece for the hose, this time a metal one.
Monday night, Scott and I were sitting in bed and heard some loud snaps. Guess what? Neither one of us wanted to go out there and check the traps and see if they caught something. Especially not at night. We waited until morning. Scott checked, not me, sure enough there were two dead rats. Yay!! Not that I celebrate when I see dead animals. Please don't report me. I was just happy to see that it was working and soon I would be able to do laundry again. My clothes were starting to pile up.
Wednesday, the exterminator came out again, and checked and disposed of all dead animals. He set the traps again, just to make sure they were all gone. He left, and that night we heard the loud snap again. We still weren't brave enough to venture outside to look. I was actually a little disappointed when Scott told me the next day that one of the traps had a frog. Poor thing! I love frogs.
No more rats as of now. We have the washer hose fixed, and the laundry pile is dwindling. All holes are patched, so we hopefully won't even see frogs or lizards in our patio. I will never forget our experience with rats, and I will never again take a vacation without capping off that pipe.
I regretfully admit that little critters were harmed in this story. Nope, sorry! I have no regrets. I'm glad their gone.
Scott and I decided to rearrange the living room. We cleared all the furniture away from the second patio door. We still don't use this door, because it just doesn't slide right, but it was great to finally have some more light in the livingroom. We absolutely love the new set up. I may just take some pictures to share with you later.
Now that the shades were able to be opened to let the light in, they are. We love being able to sit on the couch and actually see outside. It's great. We were sitting watching a movie one afternoon, and I suddenly screamed. Yes, I screamed. I glanced outside, into our patio and saw something moving. We have our washing machine and dryer in the patio, which is where I saw this huge rat crawling. By the time Scott looked out there, the rat was gone. We sat there staring in disbelief for a couple minutes, and saw two more. I couldn't believe it. Where did they come from? Why were they there? Is this normal here? I hope not!
We called the apartment office, and they said it wasn't an emergency because they were outside. They would have an exterminator come by on Monday. It was Friday, so I was kinda happy that I didn't have to do any laundry for a few days.
On Monday the exterminator stopped by and set some traps. He used the wooden ones that snap. Now, I have used these before, but I used the ones that are like three inches long. The ones that he was setting were about a foot long. I was not going to be the one to check them later, and made sure this guy knew that. He said he would be back on Wednesday to check the traps and take care of anything that was caught in them. He told me how the rats got there in the first place.
We went out of town over Christmas. We didn't use our washer for a couple weeks. Because there was no water running through the pipes, the rats were able to climb up from the sewer, and chew through the rubber hose attached to the drain on the washer. We were wondering where all that water was coming from. ;) We bought a new piece for the hose, this time a metal one.
Monday night, Scott and I were sitting in bed and heard some loud snaps. Guess what? Neither one of us wanted to go out there and check the traps and see if they caught something. Especially not at night. We waited until morning. Scott checked, not me, sure enough there were two dead rats. Yay!! Not that I celebrate when I see dead animals. Please don't report me. I was just happy to see that it was working and soon I would be able to do laundry again. My clothes were starting to pile up.
Wednesday, the exterminator came out again, and checked and disposed of all dead animals. He set the traps again, just to make sure they were all gone. He left, and that night we heard the loud snap again. We still weren't brave enough to venture outside to look. I was actually a little disappointed when Scott told me the next day that one of the traps had a frog. Poor thing! I love frogs.
No more rats as of now. We have the washer hose fixed, and the laundry pile is dwindling. All holes are patched, so we hopefully won't even see frogs or lizards in our patio. I will never forget our experience with rats, and I will never again take a vacation without capping off that pipe.
I regretfully admit that little critters were harmed in this story. Nope, sorry! I have no regrets. I'm glad their gone.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
11 Weeks
I am 11 weeks pregnant today. There is still nothing showing, but I haven't exactly lost all the baby weight from the last pregnancy. When there is something to show, I might post some belly pics. It may not be for at least another 10 weeks though.
I have had some extreme nausia. The huge difference between this pregnancy and the other ones I have experienced, is the nausia. Every one has been different, but the nausia seems to be getting worse. I have also been dizzy.
I may just need to start a vote on the sex of this baby. Some people think it will be a girl this time, considering that I already have three boys. I am not sure what to think, but I am leaning towards thinking it is another boy, just because I already have three boys. What do you think?
I have invested in kleenex. My hormones are going completely bonkers. I have cried almost every day, but for reasons I don't think anyone has ever cried over before. I have literally cried over spilled milk. I have also cried because I was vacuuming, or while I was vacuuming. I don't really know why I start crying half the time. My boys are always offering me hugs to make it all better though. They are so sweet.
We have some names picked out, but Jameson doesn't like them. He thinks that we should name the baby Judah Ben Hur, whether it's a boy or a girl. Probably not gonna happen, sorry buddy.
I have had some extreme nausia. The huge difference between this pregnancy and the other ones I have experienced, is the nausia. Every one has been different, but the nausia seems to be getting worse. I have also been dizzy.
I may just need to start a vote on the sex of this baby. Some people think it will be a girl this time, considering that I already have three boys. I am not sure what to think, but I am leaning towards thinking it is another boy, just because I already have three boys. What do you think?
I have invested in kleenex. My hormones are going completely bonkers. I have cried almost every day, but for reasons I don't think anyone has ever cried over before. I have literally cried over spilled milk. I have also cried because I was vacuuming, or while I was vacuuming. I don't really know why I start crying half the time. My boys are always offering me hugs to make it all better though. They are so sweet.
We have some names picked out, but Jameson doesn't like them. He thinks that we should name the baby Judah Ben Hur, whether it's a boy or a girl. Probably not gonna happen, sorry buddy.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Potty Training
This is one of the things that I just don't enjoy. I also don't enjoy changing diapers, so going through this process is a must.
Jameson was basically potty trained over night. He got it. He understood, and wanted to learn and grow up. He had accidents, but they were few. He was about two and a half years old.
Teagen is now alsmost three years old, and I was thinking it would take forever. He wasn't showing any signs of interest in the potty. He didn't care. I kept telling him at every diaper change that he needs to learn to use the potty so he doesn't have to wear diapers anymore. He doesn't care. He likes his diapers.
There are so many different methods in potty training that other people have told me about. Some people let their kids just learn when they learn. They don't try to teach their kids. This method is not for me, cuz I wasn't waiting any longer. Diapers are expensive. I was going to make Teagen ready.
Some people bring their kids to the potty every fifteen minutes, and sit there with them until they go. I don't have the time for this. I have a five year old, and an infant. I tried this, and ended up leaving the bathroom to deal with other things way too often.
Some people think that just letting their kids run around the house naked works. I liked this idea, except for the fact that I would be cleaning up a lot of messes. I tried it, and yes, he had some accidents. He would come up to me crying saying that he peed. I would bring him into the bathroom and he would use the potty. After only a couple times, he learned. He is now going in the potty every time he pees.
We started working on poop. He kept asking for a diaper when he had to go, or just holding it until we put a diaper on at naptime, or bedtime. I kept telling him that he needs to learn to use the potty.
This morning, he did it. He went in and sat on the potty and pooped. Then he stood up and came out and told me what he did. I had to go clean him up, but he got a big treat. M&M's!!! He received lots of positive encouragement. I hope this continues, because I would really like to be done buying diapers for him.
Yay!!! My three year old is a big boy!!!
Jameson was basically potty trained over night. He got it. He understood, and wanted to learn and grow up. He had accidents, but they were few. He was about two and a half years old.
Teagen is now alsmost three years old, and I was thinking it would take forever. He wasn't showing any signs of interest in the potty. He didn't care. I kept telling him at every diaper change that he needs to learn to use the potty so he doesn't have to wear diapers anymore. He doesn't care. He likes his diapers.
There are so many different methods in potty training that other people have told me about. Some people let their kids just learn when they learn. They don't try to teach their kids. This method is not for me, cuz I wasn't waiting any longer. Diapers are expensive. I was going to make Teagen ready.
Some people bring their kids to the potty every fifteen minutes, and sit there with them until they go. I don't have the time for this. I have a five year old, and an infant. I tried this, and ended up leaving the bathroom to deal with other things way too often.
Some people think that just letting their kids run around the house naked works. I liked this idea, except for the fact that I would be cleaning up a lot of messes. I tried it, and yes, he had some accidents. He would come up to me crying saying that he peed. I would bring him into the bathroom and he would use the potty. After only a couple times, he learned. He is now going in the potty every time he pees.
We started working on poop. He kept asking for a diaper when he had to go, or just holding it until we put a diaper on at naptime, or bedtime. I kept telling him that he needs to learn to use the potty.
This morning, he did it. He went in and sat on the potty and pooped. Then he stood up and came out and told me what he did. I had to go clean him up, but he got a big treat. M&M's!!! He received lots of positive encouragement. I hope this continues, because I would really like to be done buying diapers for him.
Yay!!! My three year old is a big boy!!!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Brothers
Jameson is such a good big brother. He is always trying to show Teagen and Gavin how to play with something. He explains to them what certain toys do, and how they are to be played with. He also makes sure that I know when one of them needs a diaper change. Jameson is such a good little helper. He will help entertain the other two when I am busy. He is learning to sacrifice what he wants to make his brothers happy.
Teagen has taken little Gavin under his wing. Teagen knows exactly how to make Gavin laugh when he gets a little upset. Just watching them react to each other makes me smile. Teagen loves both his brothers, but would like to be more independent. He loves reading books, and tries to make up the stories by looking at the pictures. He has lots of energy, but still wants to help Mommy with everything.
Gavin is the perfect little brother. He soaks up all the attention from everybody. He loves being held, and he loves being entertained. He makes sure he is the center of attention in this house. He sure does love playing with his brothers too. He will push himself right in there with a car in hand to drive it just like the other two.
Gavin is going to make a great big brother. (hint, hint)
Teagen has taken little Gavin under his wing. Teagen knows exactly how to make Gavin laugh when he gets a little upset. Just watching them react to each other makes me smile. Teagen loves both his brothers, but would like to be more independent. He loves reading books, and tries to make up the stories by looking at the pictures. He has lots of energy, but still wants to help Mommy with everything.
Gavin is the perfect little brother. He soaks up all the attention from everybody. He loves being held, and he loves being entertained. He makes sure he is the center of attention in this house. He sure does love playing with his brothers too. He will push himself right in there with a car in hand to drive it just like the other two.
Gavin is going to make a great big brother. (hint, hint)
Friday, January 14, 2011
Camping
The guys built a fire.
The kids ran around playing.
We were all smiling all night long.
We cooked hotdogs and smores over the fire.
We talked and hung out.
We relaxed and had fun.
Then came the time for bed, and it was a little chilly.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Flamingo?!
We had the chance to bring this Pink Flamingo with us to Minnesota. We were so excited. We were going to take some pictures of it in some huge snow drifts and possibly some pictures of the kids sledding down a hill with it. We had tons of ideas. We started on our trip and got through Georgia and forgot to take any pictures of it next to a state sign. Oh well. Then we came to Tennessee.
We found a cool sign to take a picture with, and then continued on our journey.
We came to Kentucky and found a cool sign for a picture. Then continued on our journey.
We came to Illinois and found a cool sign for a picture. We took more than one picture in Illinois.
It was Metropolis, Illinois. You know, where Superman is. Well, the flamingo got a little carried away. While we were stopped here, we were talking about Minnesota. The flamingo got scared, and didn't want to go there. We don't blame him. He ran away. He stayed in Metropolis, Illinois for the remainder of our vacation. We noticed he was missing after driving all the way through Illinois, and half way through Wisconsin. We would have been adding another day of driving if we went back, so we just prayed that nobody would take our hideous little friend.
We had a great time in Minnesota. We loved seeing our families, and friends. We quite enjoyed the snow, but we are glad that we are back in Florida. On the way driving back, we of course had to stop in Metropolis to see if our Flamingo was there. God is great!! He was there. We weren't that worried that he wouldn't be. We hurried to take some pictures of him in the snow.
There wasn't nearly as much snow in Southern Illinois as there was in Minnesota, but it was snow none the less. We all had a big sigh of relief when he was found.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Boys will be Boys
They shoot guns.
They fall asleep during dinner.
They will learn to walk.
I am so blessed to have been entrusted to raise these boys. Thank you Lord!
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