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.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
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!
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Minne-SNOW-ta
The boys loved the car ride. It was a total of 31 hours of driving. We stopped quite a few times for bathroom breaks, and leg stretching. They were very well behaved.
Scott and his brother Jonathan. They both like the cold, and would wear shorts and no jackets all the time, if they didn't have to set a good example for their sons.
We were lucky enough to get a little bit of snow while we were there. Yes, a rare picture of me on this blog. We had to borrow the snow brush and scraper to clean off our car.
The roads were terrible. If you don't have experience driving in this weather, I don't recommend it. It was rather enjoyable to see the look on people's faces when they saw our Florida license plate. After all, who in their right mind would leave Florida in winter to go to Minnesota?
Jameson and Teagen loved the snow. They were so excited when they saw it.
It is amazing what God has created. We were so blessed to see the beautiful snow covered world. Though we were wishing for warmer temperatures after the first day.
This is the ice that got pushed up on Mille Lacs Lake. It is rather thick, and very safe to walk, or drive on. I wish we had time to do a little ice fishing.
This is one of many beautiful sunsets we enjoyed.
Gavin put his hand on the glass of the fireplace, and got a big blister on his hand. We took him to the ER, and we have to keep his hand bandaged for a few more days.
Jameson and Teagen had a blast seeing their cousins and grandparents. They didn't mind getting a few presents too.
Gavin did a great job opening his first present.
Gavin loves daddy.
We all had a blast on our vacation. We are looking forward to visiting again. However, we are very happy to be back home in Florida.
Monday, December 20, 2010
SNOW
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Packing
I am packing.
I don't like packing.
There is just so much to remember to bring. I even made a list, and I am not usually a list person.
Things to pack for our Christmas vacation.
-Bible (of course)
-clothes
-jackets/winter stuff
-toiletries
-camera
-computer
-food/snacks
-movies
-presents
-toys/books
I am sure there are many things I don't have on this list that will end up in the car, but that's okay.
What I want to make sure is that we have everything we need. I know I will end up halfway there, and think of something that I have forgotten. It never fails. Has this ever happened to you? What will I forget this time? In the past, I have forgotten my toothbrush, or shampoo. I have even worn my sandles, but forgotten to bring shoes. I am really hoping that this time will be different.
I could use some help. If you think of anything else I can add to my list, let me know.
I don't like packing.
There is just so much to remember to bring. I even made a list, and I am not usually a list person.
Things to pack for our Christmas vacation.
-Bible (of course)
-clothes
-jackets/winter stuff
-toiletries
-camera
-computer
-food/snacks
-movies
-presents
-toys/books
I am sure there are many things I don't have on this list that will end up in the car, but that's okay.
What I want to make sure is that we have everything we need. I know I will end up halfway there, and think of something that I have forgotten. It never fails. Has this ever happened to you? What will I forget this time? In the past, I have forgotten my toothbrush, or shampoo. I have even worn my sandles, but forgotten to bring shoes. I am really hoping that this time will be different.
I could use some help. If you think of anything else I can add to my list, let me know.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Wind Chill?
Can you believe it? There was a wind chill warning in Florida today. They were saying the temp could get as 30 degrees. The wind chill would make it colder and everyone should make sure they wear hats and gloves when they go outside.
???????????????
I am sorry to say, but that is not a wind chill.
A wind chill is when there are warnings of frostbite on exposed skin after only a few seconds.
A wind chill is 30 degrees below zero.
A wind chill is when it is dangerous to even go outside.
I just laughed when I heard the weather report here.
First, I couldn't believe how cold it was actually going to get. I didn't think we would have to turn the heat on at all, and last night we did. It actually got a little cold in our place.
Second, Floridians don't even know how lucky they are. Driving in snow is not fun. Trying to breath outside when it's 30 degrees below zero is hard and painful. Your nose hairs freeze.
Third, what is up with this cold weather? I live in Florida, and it's like 40 degrees out. Not at all what I expected. Is this normal?
Good thing I was raised in Minnesota. I am used to this kind of weather. Only thing is, I thought I had moved away from it. Oh no, it followed me. Please don't blame me if it starts snowing in Florida.
???????????????
I am sorry to say, but that is not a wind chill.
A wind chill is when there are warnings of frostbite on exposed skin after only a few seconds.
A wind chill is 30 degrees below zero.
A wind chill is when it is dangerous to even go outside.
I just laughed when I heard the weather report here.
First, I couldn't believe how cold it was actually going to get. I didn't think we would have to turn the heat on at all, and last night we did. It actually got a little cold in our place.
Second, Floridians don't even know how lucky they are. Driving in snow is not fun. Trying to breath outside when it's 30 degrees below zero is hard and painful. Your nose hairs freeze.
Third, what is up with this cold weather? I live in Florida, and it's like 40 degrees out. Not at all what I expected. Is this normal?
Good thing I was raised in Minnesota. I am used to this kind of weather. Only thing is, I thought I had moved away from it. Oh no, it followed me. Please don't blame me if it starts snowing in Florida.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
I'm Thankful
Because of Thanksgiving just passing, I decided to write about the thing I am most thankful for. Of course there are many things I thank God for every day; the food He has provided, the home He has provided, that He keeps us safe, and all the other everyday miracles He performs. Today I would like to thank God for my Family.
I have an amazing husband. He loves me so much. He does so much for me. He takes care of me. I don’t deserve the love that he pours out to me. I am in awe every day just to know how much he cares. He sacrifices his sleep to give me another hour of rest. He will change dirty diapers all weekend long, just to give me a break from it. He does the dishes, laundry, and many other household duties. I love my husband so much, and I thank God for bringing us together.
God knew exactly what He was doing when He gave us our oldest son, Jameson. He knew we needed him. Jameson is very strong willed. He wants things done his way, and will complain if he doesn’t get it his way. He will also make sure that he wants the exact opposite of what you want. He is very easily upset. He is also one of the sweetest kids ever. He will sit and hold his baby brothers hand for hours, just because he loves him. He will randomly announce to everyone that he loves them. He will talk to complete strangers at the grocery store or anywhere else, and tell them about Jesus. Everyone should have a daily dose of Jameson.
Teagen, our second son has been quite an adventure in himself. When God gave us another boy, I knew I had my work cut out for me. Teagen likes hugs. He needs to be hugged regularly. If he hurts himself, he won’t stop crying until he has a hug. His laugh is contagious. Just try not to laugh after hearing him chuckle. I don’t think it’s possible. He will actually come up to you and ask to be tickled.
Our third son Gavin, has been such a blessing. He is nothing like the other two. Gavin is happy just sitting on my lap. He will play with his brothers, but is happiest when being held. He is a snuggler. He hugs and holds on so tight. I don’t mind, because I love hugs.
I give thanks to God for blessing me with such an amazing family. Not just my husband and kids, but my parents, siblings, in laws, and my church family as well. I had heard people talk about their church families, but never really understood what it meant, until I experienced it for myself.
You guys are great. After leaving our families, and moving, God gave us an amazing gift.
I have an amazing husband. He loves me so much. He does so much for me. He takes care of me. I don’t deserve the love that he pours out to me. I am in awe every day just to know how much he cares. He sacrifices his sleep to give me another hour of rest. He will change dirty diapers all weekend long, just to give me a break from it. He does the dishes, laundry, and many other household duties. I love my husband so much, and I thank God for bringing us together.
God knew exactly what He was doing when He gave us our oldest son, Jameson. He knew we needed him. Jameson is very strong willed. He wants things done his way, and will complain if he doesn’t get it his way. He will also make sure that he wants the exact opposite of what you want. He is very easily upset. He is also one of the sweetest kids ever. He will sit and hold his baby brothers hand for hours, just because he loves him. He will randomly announce to everyone that he loves them. He will talk to complete strangers at the grocery store or anywhere else, and tell them about Jesus. Everyone should have a daily dose of Jameson.
Teagen, our second son has been quite an adventure in himself. When God gave us another boy, I knew I had my work cut out for me. Teagen likes hugs. He needs to be hugged regularly. If he hurts himself, he won’t stop crying until he has a hug. His laugh is contagious. Just try not to laugh after hearing him chuckle. I don’t think it’s possible. He will actually come up to you and ask to be tickled.
Our third son Gavin, has been such a blessing. He is nothing like the other two. Gavin is happy just sitting on my lap. He will play with his brothers, but is happiest when being held. He is a snuggler. He hugs and holds on so tight. I don’t mind, because I love hugs.
I give thanks to God for blessing me with such an amazing family. Not just my husband and kids, but my parents, siblings, in laws, and my church family as well. I had heard people talk about their church families, but never really understood what it meant, until I experienced it for myself.
You guys are great. After leaving our families, and moving, God gave us an amazing gift.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Update (Finally)
I was sitting here tonight, thinking, "WOW! I have not updated my blog in a long time." You guys were probably wondering what had happened to me. Not that there are that many people that actually read my posts, but I like to think I am that popular and everybody loves me. :-)
Jameson has become quite the little smarty pants. He is very stubborn. I think he gets that from me. Don't you just hate it when your mom is right when she says, "Some day you are going to have a kid just like you." Well, Jameson is just like me. He gets angry and throws things. I remember getting that mad and slamming the door of my bedroom. My parents had to take the door away. They actually took the door off the hinges to prevent me from slamming it anymore. I had to earn it back. Now everytime Jameson throws something, he gets a toy taken away. The only problem is, he doesn't have many more toys left to play with, and either does Teagen. I may have to find a different way to take care of this problem.
Teagen is my little klutz. Gotta love him. He gets this from me. When I was in diving in high school, I was in a competition at an outdoor pool in the summer. I placed on the 3 meter board. I went up and got my medal, and then, (typical Andi move) I fell down the cement stairs and got all scraped up. I was teased for a long time about how I can be so graceful on a diving board, but can't walk on my own two feet. Teagen can't walk either. He is the one that will trip over a blade of grass. He also gets hurt a lot. Minor injuries, like bumping his head on the couch. Soft surface, you may be thinking. Well, Teagen manages to get hurt this way. He will cry until you give him a hug. This part I love. A hug from mommy still fixes everything.
Gavin is my snuggler. I am not sure if he got this from me or not. I know that his is not shy either. He doesn't care who is holding him, as long as he is being held. He likes the attention. He's going to be like me. When I was little, (my mom says) that when we would have to get onto an elevator, I would be the one always breaking the elevator rules. I would talk to people, and walk around. I still don't understand why you always have to turn around and face the door. You might not want to ride on an elevator with me. Gavin recently got his first tooth. One on the bottom broke through. He is drooling like crazy.
Scott and I are doing great. We are planning our trip back to Minnesota for Christmas. We are really excited to see everyone. We have heard a lot of horror stories about the bad weather there. We have had such beautiful weather here. I do miss the snow, but I am glad I will only be around it for a week, then it will be back to sunny Florida. We are currently looking to buy a new used car. We hope to find one before our trip, but we know that might not happen.
God has been showing us some wonderful things recently. We have been amazed at all the work he is doing in our lives.
Jameson has become quite the little smarty pants. He is very stubborn. I think he gets that from me. Don't you just hate it when your mom is right when she says, "Some day you are going to have a kid just like you." Well, Jameson is just like me. He gets angry and throws things. I remember getting that mad and slamming the door of my bedroom. My parents had to take the door away. They actually took the door off the hinges to prevent me from slamming it anymore. I had to earn it back. Now everytime Jameson throws something, he gets a toy taken away. The only problem is, he doesn't have many more toys left to play with, and either does Teagen. I may have to find a different way to take care of this problem.
Teagen is my little klutz. Gotta love him. He gets this from me. When I was in diving in high school, I was in a competition at an outdoor pool in the summer. I placed on the 3 meter board. I went up and got my medal, and then, (typical Andi move) I fell down the cement stairs and got all scraped up. I was teased for a long time about how I can be so graceful on a diving board, but can't walk on my own two feet. Teagen can't walk either. He is the one that will trip over a blade of grass. He also gets hurt a lot. Minor injuries, like bumping his head on the couch. Soft surface, you may be thinking. Well, Teagen manages to get hurt this way. He will cry until you give him a hug. This part I love. A hug from mommy still fixes everything.
Gavin is my snuggler. I am not sure if he got this from me or not. I know that his is not shy either. He doesn't care who is holding him, as long as he is being held. He likes the attention. He's going to be like me. When I was little, (my mom says) that when we would have to get onto an elevator, I would be the one always breaking the elevator rules. I would talk to people, and walk around. I still don't understand why you always have to turn around and face the door. You might not want to ride on an elevator with me. Gavin recently got his first tooth. One on the bottom broke through. He is drooling like crazy.
Scott and I are doing great. We are planning our trip back to Minnesota for Christmas. We are really excited to see everyone. We have heard a lot of horror stories about the bad weather there. We have had such beautiful weather here. I do miss the snow, but I am glad I will only be around it for a week, then it will be back to sunny Florida. We are currently looking to buy a new used car. We hope to find one before our trip, but we know that might not happen.
God has been showing us some wonderful things recently. We have been amazed at all the work he is doing in our lives.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Angel VS Devil
Have you ever had fight with yourself over what you should do in a particular situation? I have a very visual mind, and always picture that little angel on one of my shoulders, and the little devil on the other shoulder, both telling me what they think I should do. Who do I usually listen to? Do I have to answer that?
I would have to admit, I probably don't listen to the Angel quite as often as I should. Romans 3:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. I am no exception to this! I have sinned as well. I hate to admit it, because I do like to think of myself as perfect.
These little so called cartoon characters are a large part of my decision making process. One of them gives me an idea, and I think, "That would be fun." Then the other says, "No, do this." I of course think, "That would be more fun." When it comes down to my final decision, I would like to say that I always take into account what the Bible says, and I do what is right. That's not always how it works though. I sometimes choose what I know to be wrong.
Like I said, I like to think of myself as perfect. I, however, am not perfect.
Perfect would be God, and God alone.
How do I change this, and make the right decision all the time? Can I just flick that little cartoon devil off my shoulder, and listen only to the beautiful little angel? No! It's an evil world, and that means that I have to face evil in my everyday life. I have to face making decisions that I would rather not make. I have to have these little arguments with myself to figure out what God wants me to do. I also have to make the wrong decisions every once in a while, so God can teach me and mold me into what He wants me to be.
I would have to admit, I probably don't listen to the Angel quite as often as I should. Romans 3:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. I am no exception to this! I have sinned as well. I hate to admit it, because I do like to think of myself as perfect.
These little so called cartoon characters are a large part of my decision making process. One of them gives me an idea, and I think, "That would be fun." Then the other says, "No, do this." I of course think, "That would be more fun." When it comes down to my final decision, I would like to say that I always take into account what the Bible says, and I do what is right. That's not always how it works though. I sometimes choose what I know to be wrong.
Like I said, I like to think of myself as perfect. I, however, am not perfect.
Perfect would be God, and God alone.
How do I change this, and make the right decision all the time? Can I just flick that little cartoon devil off my shoulder, and listen only to the beautiful little angel? No! It's an evil world, and that means that I have to face evil in my everyday life. I have to face making decisions that I would rather not make. I have to have these little arguments with myself to figure out what God wants me to do. I also have to make the wrong decisions every once in a while, so God can teach me and mold me into what He wants me to be.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
My Boys
Gavin is now crawling. He also is able to pull himself up to standing. He does this at the couch, and just by holding onto my pants. He is very clingy, and never wants to be put down. When I do put him down, which is actually quite often because I am not able to hold him all day, he has a blast playing with his brothers. The like to give him lots of toys, and of course, the give him lots of hugs and kisses too. They are great with helping me take care of him. Gavin has started talking a lot of jibberish. He makes a lot of noise.
Teagen also makes a lot of noise, but with him, it's because he is just really loud. Teagen does not have a volume control. We wish he did sometimes. He has to be reminded to be quiet. He also has to be told to speak up at times. He likes to whisper. I can't win. Either we can't hear him at all, or he's the only thing we can hear. Teagen is having a lot of fun learning things in school. He likes to color, and I don't mean on paper. He usually finds something to color on, like the walls, or his own body. He also likes to tease his older brother. He will do anything possible to make Jameson angry.
Jameson is overly annoyed by his little brother. Jameson gets very upset if things don't go they way they are "supposed to go". What he doesn't realize yet, is that life is like that. We are trying to teach him to "Do everything without complaining or arguing" Philippians 2:14. This is difficult, because Jameson likes to whine. He has learned a lot while we are working on school. He loves school. I am trying to teach him how to read, but it hasn't clicked yet. We are hoping it will soon, because we are planning on getting him his own Bible for Christmas.
Scott is wonderful. He does so much for me that I don't deserve. He is too good to me. I love him more and more each day. It is the slow season at work, so he is able to spend more time at home. We love being able to spend more time with him, and see him more often.
Teagen also makes a lot of noise, but with him, it's because he is just really loud. Teagen does not have a volume control. We wish he did sometimes. He has to be reminded to be quiet. He also has to be told to speak up at times. He likes to whisper. I can't win. Either we can't hear him at all, or he's the only thing we can hear. Teagen is having a lot of fun learning things in school. He likes to color, and I don't mean on paper. He usually finds something to color on, like the walls, or his own body. He also likes to tease his older brother. He will do anything possible to make Jameson angry.
Jameson is overly annoyed by his little brother. Jameson gets very upset if things don't go they way they are "supposed to go". What he doesn't realize yet, is that life is like that. We are trying to teach him to "Do everything without complaining or arguing" Philippians 2:14. This is difficult, because Jameson likes to whine. He has learned a lot while we are working on school. He loves school. I am trying to teach him how to read, but it hasn't clicked yet. We are hoping it will soon, because we are planning on getting him his own Bible for Christmas.
Scott is wonderful. He does so much for me that I don't deserve. He is too good to me. I love him more and more each day. It is the slow season at work, so he is able to spend more time at home. We love being able to spend more time with him, and see him more often.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Sick
My boys are sick. They all have runny noses and a cough. I feel so bad, because I know how miserable they must be. I can't stand having a cold.
The sleepless nights without the ability to breathe through my nose,
The endless blowing of my nose,
The raw red nose that you don't want to go into public with,
The hacking and coughing that is embarassing.
I really hope I don't catch it.
Jameson doesn't have it very bad, only a little bit of a runny nose, and not much coughing at all. Teagen, however, was coughing so hard that he threw up. He was up almost all night for two nights in a row. Gavin has a very runny nose, and a little cough.
Now for the talk about meds. What can I give them. There are no medications out there that will dry up their noses. There are only ones that are decongestants. That will make their noses run more. I can't give Gavin anything, because he is only 6 months old. I have given the older two cough medicine, but it doesn't seem to work. They are still hacking.
I don't like medicine, and rarely take any myself. If I can live with the pain, or discomfort, I do. As for my kids, I don't like to watch them suffer, and would rather have them feeling normal, so I give them medicine when it is required.
I would love to get some sleep, but when you have sick kids it's out of the question. I find myself getting up a few times at night just to check on them and make sure they are okay, and still breathing. With these colds, I don't even have to enter their bedroom. I can hear them snoring all the way in my room.
Poor little Gavin is also teething. He is draining fluids from his nose, and mouth. So, not only is he cranky from the pain in his gums, but he also had the cold and cough. I have given him Tylenol, and Orajel as needed.
A mother's job is never over. This is just the beginning.
The sleepless nights without the ability to breathe through my nose,
The endless blowing of my nose,
The raw red nose that you don't want to go into public with,
The hacking and coughing that is embarassing.
I really hope I don't catch it.
Jameson doesn't have it very bad, only a little bit of a runny nose, and not much coughing at all. Teagen, however, was coughing so hard that he threw up. He was up almost all night for two nights in a row. Gavin has a very runny nose, and a little cough.
Now for the talk about meds. What can I give them. There are no medications out there that will dry up their noses. There are only ones that are decongestants. That will make their noses run more. I can't give Gavin anything, because he is only 6 months old. I have given the older two cough medicine, but it doesn't seem to work. They are still hacking.
I don't like medicine, and rarely take any myself. If I can live with the pain, or discomfort, I do. As for my kids, I don't like to watch them suffer, and would rather have them feeling normal, so I give them medicine when it is required.
I would love to get some sleep, but when you have sick kids it's out of the question. I find myself getting up a few times at night just to check on them and make sure they are okay, and still breathing. With these colds, I don't even have to enter their bedroom. I can hear them snoring all the way in my room.
Poor little Gavin is also teething. He is draining fluids from his nose, and mouth. So, not only is he cranky from the pain in his gums, but he also had the cold and cough. I have given him Tylenol, and Orajel as needed.
A mother's job is never over. This is just the beginning.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Happy Reformation Day
I do not celebrate Halloween. I believe it is an evil day. For starters, candy in the amounts that kids usually haul it in this day, isn't good for you. I know, it's tempting. I love candy, chocolate to be specific. But, that's how they draw you in.
You start by telling yourself that you and your kids won't dress up as anything evil.
Then you have your adorable kids, dressed as a princess or maybe a pumpkin, prance around begging for candy.
Then your kids grow up, and want to dress as a monster, or a villian.
Then they are teens, and want to go out with their friend on Halloween. What do they dress like? Do you know? Are they half naked, or appropriately dressed?
Your kids are also being subjected to all the evil that takes place this night.
There are more crimes that take place on Halloween night, than any other. Mostly vandalism, but there are others as well.
I for one am not celebrating or supporting this holiday, if you can call it that.
Instead, I celebrate Reformation Day. On this day 493 years ago, a man named Martin Luther nailed his 95 theses to the door of a church. He taught that salvation is not earned by good deeds but received only as a free gift of God's grace through faith in Jesus as redeemer from sin. He challenged the authority of the pope of the Roman Catholic Church by teaching that the Bible is the only source of divinely revealed knowledge. He started to Protestant Movement.
Luther was asked to renounce or reaffirm his beliefs, and said this, "Unless I am convinced by proofs from Scriptures or by plain and clear reasons and arguments, I can and will not retract, for it is neither safe nor wise to do anything against conscience. Here I stand. I can do no other. God help me. Amen."
You start by telling yourself that you and your kids won't dress up as anything evil.
Then you have your adorable kids, dressed as a princess or maybe a pumpkin, prance around begging for candy.
Then your kids grow up, and want to dress as a monster, or a villian.
Then they are teens, and want to go out with their friend on Halloween. What do they dress like? Do you know? Are they half naked, or appropriately dressed?
Your kids are also being subjected to all the evil that takes place this night.
There are more crimes that take place on Halloween night, than any other. Mostly vandalism, but there are others as well.
I for one am not celebrating or supporting this holiday, if you can call it that.
Instead, I celebrate Reformation Day. On this day 493 years ago, a man named Martin Luther nailed his 95 theses to the door of a church. He taught that salvation is not earned by good deeds but received only as a free gift of God's grace through faith in Jesus as redeemer from sin. He challenged the authority of the pope of the Roman Catholic Church by teaching that the Bible is the only source of divinely revealed knowledge. He started to Protestant Movement.
Luther was asked to renounce or reaffirm his beliefs, and said this, "Unless I am convinced by proofs from Scriptures or by plain and clear reasons and arguments, I can and will not retract, for it is neither safe nor wise to do anything against conscience. Here I stand. I can do no other. God help me. Amen."
Monday, October 18, 2010
Gavin 6 months
I can't believe I missed it. Gavin turned 6 months old on the 9th of October. He is such a happy little boy. We enjoy his smiles and his giggles. He is now sitting up on his own. He tries to crawl, but hasn't quite got it down yet. He gets up on his hands and knees, and stays there rocking. It's adorable.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Jameson is 5 (yesterday)
Today is your 5th birthday Jameson. I remember the day you were born. You were born 5 weeks early. Your lungs weren't ready yet. God helped you get better earlier than expected, and we took you home when you were 10 days old.
You grew up so fast. You have always been a happy little boy. Your smile and your laugh are contagious. You say things that we can't help but laugh at. You have a great sense of humor. You have grown into a very smart, and very aware big boy. You have grown to love God and Jesus. Our prayer for your future is this...
Dear Lord, please help Jameson to continue to grow in his faith and spirituality. Show him that you are always with him. Lord, protect him from evil, and help him to make the right decisions.
We love you Jameson. Happy Birthday.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Things I Learned
There are certain things I have no control over, and there are other things that depend completely on me. Out of everything that could go wrong in this evil world, my problems are minor ones. Things could be so much worse, and I am thankful to God for teaching me this.
I have had my share of difficulties. My life has by no means been easy. It actually seemed to get worse once I made a commitment to the Lord. I have been under attack. The enemy doesn’t like that I switched sides, and is fighting for my return. Bad news for the enemy. I am completely devoted to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
We are currently having some money problems. I have been frustrated and confused and outright angry. I don’t understand why we don’t have enough to support our family. We are trying so hard to stretch every penny to make ends meet. For some reason, it doesn’t work. There are more bills than money coming in. The numbers are far from even.
We are also having issues with our transportation. This, I think, has caused more anger and doubt than any other problem I have faced. I think it’s because I have no control. I have no choice but to hand it over to God. This was hard for me. I thought I could handle it myself. God showed me that if I hand it over to Him, things will change. I did, and they did. The van still hasn’t been returned, but I feel a lot better about it. Something changed in the way that I am looking at the entire situation. I no longer have doubt. I know that God will do what is best. I no longer pray for the van to be returned. I pray only that He will give me wisdom, and the strength to accept what happens. He has given me peace. The enemy was using my anger with the situation to gain control of my actions and words. I admit, I did and said things I am not happy about. I was wrong. Now, God has shown me that it isn’t all about me. There is a reason why we have been without this vehicle for four months. There is a reason why we haven’t been able to get it back. I don’t know what it is, but I KNOW it is for God’s Glory. I KNOW God will use this situation to teach us to honor Him.
I am starting to look at my life differently than before. I’m not just talking about from before I was saved, but also from the way I perceived things just a few weeks ago. I have been selfish. I have been wanting God to serve me. I wanted Him to do whatever it took to make me happy. I need to turn things around. I need to do whatever it takes to make Him happy. It doesn’t matter how I feel. I am here to bring Glory to God. It’s not about me, it’s all about Him.
I have had my share of difficulties. My life has by no means been easy. It actually seemed to get worse once I made a commitment to the Lord. I have been under attack. The enemy doesn’t like that I switched sides, and is fighting for my return. Bad news for the enemy. I am completely devoted to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
We are currently having some money problems. I have been frustrated and confused and outright angry. I don’t understand why we don’t have enough to support our family. We are trying so hard to stretch every penny to make ends meet. For some reason, it doesn’t work. There are more bills than money coming in. The numbers are far from even.
We are also having issues with our transportation. This, I think, has caused more anger and doubt than any other problem I have faced. I think it’s because I have no control. I have no choice but to hand it over to God. This was hard for me. I thought I could handle it myself. God showed me that if I hand it over to Him, things will change. I did, and they did. The van still hasn’t been returned, but I feel a lot better about it. Something changed in the way that I am looking at the entire situation. I no longer have doubt. I know that God will do what is best. I no longer pray for the van to be returned. I pray only that He will give me wisdom, and the strength to accept what happens. He has given me peace. The enemy was using my anger with the situation to gain control of my actions and words. I admit, I did and said things I am not happy about. I was wrong. Now, God has shown me that it isn’t all about me. There is a reason why we have been without this vehicle for four months. There is a reason why we haven’t been able to get it back. I don’t know what it is, but I KNOW it is for God’s Glory. I KNOW God will use this situation to teach us to honor Him.
I am starting to look at my life differently than before. I’m not just talking about from before I was saved, but also from the way I perceived things just a few weeks ago. I have been selfish. I have been wanting God to serve me. I wanted Him to do whatever it took to make me happy. I need to turn things around. I need to do whatever it takes to make Him happy. It doesn’t matter how I feel. I am here to bring Glory to God. It’s not about me, it’s all about Him.
Haircut
We shaved the boys head a couple days ago. Jameson wanted to use the "cutter", as he calls it, on Daddy's hair. Scott actually let him.
Look at that concentration.
He did a pretty good job.
I had to finish up, and make sure there weren't any patches left. After Jameson was done, he asked if he could do Mommy's hair next. I had to draw the line. Mommy's have long hair.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Week Update
My parents just left, and I am alone again. I miss them already. Though we couldn't really go anywhere, we still had fun. The boys are really going to miss them. We will be going back to Minnesota for Christmas though, so we will see them again soon. Here are some pics from our week together.
We celebrated Jameson's Birthday a little early, so Grandma and Grandpa could celebrate with us. Jameson got a bat and some balls to practice with.
He did a pretty good job. He will still need some practice, but he had fun.
Teagen didn't really know how to hold the bat, but tried anyway.
Gavin had lots of fun. There were a few times that he was put down, but otherwise he was in Grandma's arms. She was able to rock him to sleep, and he loved it. I think he may miss them the most. He learned how to sit up by himself while they were here. Grandma and Grandpa loved his smile, and his happy nature.
Jameson got a blue birthday cake.
It was yummy!
Teagen thought so too.
There were quite a few times that we were all in tears, laughing at something the boys had said or done. There was a lot of comparing my boys actions to myself as a child. Teagen trips over everything, just like I did, and still do. He is my little clutz. They really enjoyed listening to Jameson's stories.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Sky Writing
There is a sky writer flying and writing directly above our home.
It has to be God speaking to me, because of all the frustration and trials I have right now.
The first message...
God = : )
The second message...
TRUST JESUS
The third message...
LOVE GOD
There hasn't been a fourth message, but we are sitting outside watching, just in case.
Jameson is outside screaming "TRUST GOD!"
Jameson also said "God is smoking."
It has to be God speaking to me, because of all the frustration and trials I have right now.
The first message...
God = : )
The second message...
TRUST JESUS
The third message...
LOVE GOD
There hasn't been a fourth message, but we are sitting outside watching, just in case.
Jameson is outside screaming "TRUST GOD!"
Jameson also said "God is smoking."
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Parents
My parents come in today from Minnesota to visit. I am really excited to see them. My boys, I think, are more excited to see them. We don't have anything big planned, but I know we will have fun anyway. Mostly I think we will just hang out and talk.
These are my first visitors from our family, and I am a little nervous. I have been cleaning the apartment all week, to get everything perfect for when they get here. I think that is what I want to talk about the most.
Why do we clean our home so much when we know someone is coming over? If they stopped by unexpectedly, would they be offended by what my home looks like?
I have a major problem with clutter. There are school books and paper all over the kitchen table. I tried really hard to organize them all. There are toys everywhere. That was the boys job for the day. They have been trying to organize them by color. A little extra school activity that accomplishes chores as well. I actually made a significant dent in our laundry pile. It's gone. There are no dishes in our sink, or on the counter.
I can't believe how organized and clean everything is. I just hope we can keep it this way.
These are my first visitors from our family, and I am a little nervous. I have been cleaning the apartment all week, to get everything perfect for when they get here. I think that is what I want to talk about the most.
Why do we clean our home so much when we know someone is coming over? If they stopped by unexpectedly, would they be offended by what my home looks like?
I have a major problem with clutter. There are school books and paper all over the kitchen table. I tried really hard to organize them all. There are toys everywhere. That was the boys job for the day. They have been trying to organize them by color. A little extra school activity that accomplishes chores as well. I actually made a significant dent in our laundry pile. It's gone. There are no dishes in our sink, or on the counter.
I can't believe how organized and clean everything is. I just hope we can keep it this way.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Content
My post today is a short one. I was reading some random blogs, and found one that I will now have a link to on my blog. Please check out what this wonderful lady has posted on her blog. She has the right idea. I agree with her whole heartedly. She writes about what she wants for her children. Wow! I don't want my children to be happy either.
http://itsalmostnaptime.blogspot.com/2010/02/i-dont-want-my-children-to-be-happy.html
Can you imagine what the world would be like if everyone lived like this? Can you imagine? Oh how I strive to teach my children that certain things don't matter. What does matter, is the impact they can have on the world, in God's name. What does matter, is how much they strive to do God's will. What does matter, is God.
I love you my boys. You will learn from here on out what it means to be content versus what it means to be happy. I pray for you to be content.
http://itsalmostnaptime.blogspot.com/2010/02/i-dont-want-my-children-to-be-happy.html
Can you imagine what the world would be like if everyone lived like this? Can you imagine? Oh how I strive to teach my children that certain things don't matter. What does matter, is the impact they can have on the world, in God's name. What does matter, is how much they strive to do God's will. What does matter, is God.
I love you my boys. You will learn from here on out what it means to be content versus what it means to be happy. I pray for you to be content.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Weather
I find it necessary to compare weather in Minnesota and Florida. I guess it's because of the extreme differences. Let's start with the obvious.
SNOW - Minnesota has it, and Florida doesn't. Actually, snow has fallen in Florida before, but I'm pretty sure it didn't stick around too long.
HUMIDITY - Minnesota has humidity, nobody can doubt that. There are 10,000 lakes there. But, humidity in Minnesota is nothing compared to Florida. Florida has the ocean, need I say more?
TEMPERATURE - There are the obvious temperature differences between Minnesota and Florida. However, Minnesota has the harsh extremes of -30 degrees or more vs. 100+ degrees. The summer here was great, I thought. The temp was consistently in the low 90's. Some days in Minnesota were hotter. I haven't experienced a winter in Florida yet, but look forward to mild temperatures. I am not quite sure what to expect, although I do know that I won't need my heavy winter coat.
RAIN - I never expected to find such a big difference in the rain in Minnesota compared to the rain in Florida. It's the tropics down here, meaning that it rains almost daily. The rain usually lasts for a minute or two, then the sun comes out. I have seen quite a few sun showers, and rainbows. You don't want to be caught on the road when it rains down here, because you will probably end up having to slow down to a crawl, or stop altogether. Many people turn on their emergency flashers just so other cars can see them. The rain drops down here are huge. In Minnesota there are many different words used to describe rain. You can have a drizzle, sprinkle, spitting, pouring, etc. In Florida, it's called a Monsoon. There is no such thing sprinkling here. I would much rather drive in three feet of snow in Minnesota than in the rain in Florida, but I expect I will get used to it.
Right now, we are in a tropical storm. It has been pouring for quite a few hours. We are to expect
We have all gotten our first illness since moving here. We all have mild colds. There are a lot of runny noses around here. We have actually never been healthier. I don't think we have ever gone this long with not having some minor cold or some trip to the doctor for an ear infection. We are very thankful to God for keeping us healthy. Teagen had a mild case of what we call asthma. After using the nebulizer, he was fine. I think it was brought on by his cough and runny nose. However, not having to bring him into the doctor every month for ear infections is great. I don't mind the coughing and snot. Okay, I don't really like the snot, but I deal.
SNOW - Minnesota has it, and Florida doesn't. Actually, snow has fallen in Florida before, but I'm pretty sure it didn't stick around too long.
HUMIDITY - Minnesota has humidity, nobody can doubt that. There are 10,000 lakes there. But, humidity in Minnesota is nothing compared to Florida. Florida has the ocean, need I say more?
TEMPERATURE - There are the obvious temperature differences between Minnesota and Florida. However, Minnesota has the harsh extremes of -30 degrees or more vs. 100+ degrees. The summer here was great, I thought. The temp was consistently in the low 90's. Some days in Minnesota were hotter. I haven't experienced a winter in Florida yet, but look forward to mild temperatures. I am not quite sure what to expect, although I do know that I won't need my heavy winter coat.
RAIN - I never expected to find such a big difference in the rain in Minnesota compared to the rain in Florida. It's the tropics down here, meaning that it rains almost daily. The rain usually lasts for a minute or two, then the sun comes out. I have seen quite a few sun showers, and rainbows. You don't want to be caught on the road when it rains down here, because you will probably end up having to slow down to a crawl, or stop altogether. Many people turn on their emergency flashers just so other cars can see them. The rain drops down here are huge. In Minnesota there are many different words used to describe rain. You can have a drizzle, sprinkle, spitting, pouring, etc. In Florida, it's called a Monsoon. There is no such thing sprinkling here. I would much rather drive in three feet of snow in Minnesota than in the rain in Florida, but I expect I will get used to it.
Right now, we are in a tropical storm. It has been pouring for quite a few hours. We are to expect
We have all gotten our first illness since moving here. We all have mild colds. There are a lot of runny noses around here. We have actually never been healthier. I don't think we have ever gone this long with not having some minor cold or some trip to the doctor for an ear infection. We are very thankful to God for keeping us healthy. Teagen had a mild case of what we call asthma. After using the nebulizer, he was fine. I think it was brought on by his cough and runny nose. However, not having to bring him into the doctor every month for ear infections is great. I don't mind the coughing and snot. Okay, I don't really like the snot, but I deal.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Laws
Are we really following the law? Some people may think that some laws are stupid and ignore them. Is that right? I have always been taught that the laws are in place to keep everyone safe. One law in particular that I am very adament about following, and others could care less about, is speed. There is a speed limit! It's not a suggestion, it's a LIMIT! That means you don't go any faster than the posted number.
There are some out there that would argue that it is not safe to go the speed limit. If you are not going with the flow of traffic, you can cause an accident. My arguement is this; It's not the people following the rules that cause the accidents, it's those that get road rage or swerve to cut someone off that they think is going too slow. Those that drive carelessly, without concern for safety or speed limits, are the ones that cause the accidents.
I have never in my life had more people honk at me, or give me obscene hand gestures, or cut me off and slam on their brakes, than when I started driving in Florida. I guess there is a different set of rules here.
I know this is a subject that I am probably in the minority, or maybe I am the only one that thinks this way. I don't care. I am going to continue to go the speed limit, or less. God will protect me. God will see that I am obeying the authority appointed over me. God will see that I have respect for that authority. God will keep me safe.
I choose to follow the rules. I choose to follow God. I choose to obey.
Comment below on what your thoughts are.
There are some out there that would argue that it is not safe to go the speed limit. If you are not going with the flow of traffic, you can cause an accident. My arguement is this; It's not the people following the rules that cause the accidents, it's those that get road rage or swerve to cut someone off that they think is going too slow. Those that drive carelessly, without concern for safety or speed limits, are the ones that cause the accidents.
I have never in my life had more people honk at me, or give me obscene hand gestures, or cut me off and slam on their brakes, than when I started driving in Florida. I guess there is a different set of rules here.
I know this is a subject that I am probably in the minority, or maybe I am the only one that thinks this way. I don't care. I am going to continue to go the speed limit, or less. God will protect me. God will see that I am obeying the authority appointed over me. God will see that I have respect for that authority. God will keep me safe.
I choose to follow the rules. I choose to follow God. I choose to obey.
Comment below on what your thoughts are.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Prayers
Little kids are adorable when they pray. My boys know that they can ask God for anything. Usually their prayers go like this.
Dear Jesus, help God. Help me listen to Mommy and Daddy. Help Daddy get home safe. Help me sleep good. I love you. Bless Mommy, Daddy, Jameson, Teagen, Gavin, all my aunts, uncles, cousins and grandma's and grandpa's. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Tonight, Jameson added a lot more. He asked Jesus to come back soon. He said I love you at least ten times. He elaborated on how much he likes God's stories in the Bible. Then he ended with,
"And all God's people said, Amen!"
It took all that was in me to not start laughing and crying at the same time. It was one of thoose times when what comes out of their mouths amazes me. I love my boys.
I have been working on praying more myself. The boys have picked up on this, and now won't let anyone start eating until they pray. They notice everything, and learn to do what they see being done. I am teaching my boys, not only to read and count, but also to love God, and read His word. It's a lot of fun.
Dear Jesus, help God. Help me listen to Mommy and Daddy. Help Daddy get home safe. Help me sleep good. I love you. Bless Mommy, Daddy, Jameson, Teagen, Gavin, all my aunts, uncles, cousins and grandma's and grandpa's. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Tonight, Jameson added a lot more. He asked Jesus to come back soon. He said I love you at least ten times. He elaborated on how much he likes God's stories in the Bible. Then he ended with,
"And all God's people said, Amen!"
It took all that was in me to not start laughing and crying at the same time. It was one of thoose times when what comes out of their mouths amazes me. I love my boys.
I have been working on praying more myself. The boys have picked up on this, and now won't let anyone start eating until they pray. They notice everything, and learn to do what they see being done. I am teaching my boys, not only to read and count, but also to love God, and read His word. It's a lot of fun.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Sleepless Nights
I have had problems with getting enough sleep at night lately, and falling asleep on the couch during the day. I put Jameson and Teagen to bed around eight, and Gavin goes down around nine. Then Gavin is up before ten, and every hour after that. I wasn't getting a restful sleep at all. I started feeding him rice cereal to see if that would help him sleep more, and it didn't. I didn't know what to do, and didn't have enough brain cells that were awake to think about it. My house had become a complete mess. I just couldn't do anything.
Finally I asked some friends for advice.
The solution? Well, I put footsie pj's on him. He slept for about seven hours that night. I was so happy. He still woke up at about three am to eat, but it wasn't as bad as every hour. I still need some advice on getting him to sleep through the night. I think I might try putting him to bed a little later.
My other problem with sleep, is Teagen. Teagen has a built in alarm clock. He wakes up at two am and crawls into bed with Scott and I. He will snuggle in between us, and start sucking his fingers. Not only is it loud, it's wet. He drools. He will also start rubbing my arm or face. He is a very cuddly kid, but keeps me awake. He kicks too. I need to find a way to keep him in his own bed. I am pretty sure this one is my fault. I have let him crawl in bed with us for such a long time, it may be a hard one to break.
I just want some sleep.
On another note, Jameson is doing great with school. I love being able to read him something and ask him questions. His answers are so elaborate. He remembers every detail, and will start acting out whatever story he is currently learning. He once pretended to be Moses and tell the Pharoah to "Let my people go!" I love it. He has an amazing imagination.
Finally I asked some friends for advice.
The solution? Well, I put footsie pj's on him. He slept for about seven hours that night. I was so happy. He still woke up at about three am to eat, but it wasn't as bad as every hour. I still need some advice on getting him to sleep through the night. I think I might try putting him to bed a little later.
My other problem with sleep, is Teagen. Teagen has a built in alarm clock. He wakes up at two am and crawls into bed with Scott and I. He will snuggle in between us, and start sucking his fingers. Not only is it loud, it's wet. He drools. He will also start rubbing my arm or face. He is a very cuddly kid, but keeps me awake. He kicks too. I need to find a way to keep him in his own bed. I am pretty sure this one is my fault. I have let him crawl in bed with us for such a long time, it may be a hard one to break.
I just want some sleep.
On another note, Jameson is doing great with school. I love being able to read him something and ask him questions. His answers are so elaborate. He remembers every detail, and will start acting out whatever story he is currently learning. He once pretended to be Moses and tell the Pharoah to "Let my people go!" I love it. He has an amazing imagination.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
My Birthday
Today is my Birthday.
My mom sent me an email today that started with "Happy Birthday Odie!" That's what they used to call me. You know Garfield's old pal, the dog that always had that stupid smile on his face. That was me. My parents gave me the nickname Odie because I was always smiling. I looked back at all my birthday cards from when I was a kid. Yes, I saved them. In every single one of them there was the word smile, and it was underlined by the sender. I was the kid that after having my picture taken, I would still have a smile on my face. I was just that happy. I look at my life now, and I am still that happy. I am so blessed to have the family that I do.
I know I don't smile like that anymore. I am definitely going to work on that. A smile on your face can bring a smile to another face. Just like a childs laugh, smiles are contagious. Have you smiled today?
On my birthday, I usually take a look back at my life and see where I have been, and where I am now. This always includes looking back to a horrible, but very memorable day. My 22nd birthday. September 11th, 2001. My birthday had always been a time of joy, and a time to celebrate. Now, everybody is thinking of those two towers, and the tragic loss of lives. Now when my birthday comes around each year I think about what I can do to save lives. I'm talking about eternity here.
Do you know Jesus?
My mom sent me an email today that started with "Happy Birthday Odie!" That's what they used to call me. You know Garfield's old pal, the dog that always had that stupid smile on his face. That was me. My parents gave me the nickname Odie because I was always smiling. I looked back at all my birthday cards from when I was a kid. Yes, I saved them. In every single one of them there was the word smile, and it was underlined by the sender. I was the kid that after having my picture taken, I would still have a smile on my face. I was just that happy. I look at my life now, and I am still that happy. I am so blessed to have the family that I do.
I know I don't smile like that anymore. I am definitely going to work on that. A smile on your face can bring a smile to another face. Just like a childs laugh, smiles are contagious. Have you smiled today?
On my birthday, I usually take a look back at my life and see where I have been, and where I am now. This always includes looking back to a horrible, but very memorable day. My 22nd birthday. September 11th, 2001. My birthday had always been a time of joy, and a time to celebrate. Now, everybody is thinking of those two towers, and the tragic loss of lives. Now when my birthday comes around each year I think about what I can do to save lives. I'm talking about eternity here.
Do you know Jesus?
Thursday, September 9, 2010
5 months
Gavin is 5 months old today.
He's full of smiles. Check out the dimples.
He is trying to crawl. He gets up on his hands and knees, then does a face plant, and comes up with a big smile on his face. It's almost like he was saying "I meant to do that." We love him.
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