This Life . . .

Vacation Bible School

2011-07-14T19:51:00.000-07:00

A new experience for us. VBS at a church that is not our own home church. It is not even our own family of churches. The kiddos are having a great time and learning much. I am reminded once again how important this week is in the spiritual lives of my children and the awesome opportunity for them to learn about God in a way that reaches their particular learning style.
We are so blessed!
Today they created felted soap. Think soap and washcloth in one! So totally cool.

In other news, we took a trip to the University of Alaska at Fairbanks to see the campus and the Museum. It was awesome - a little bit of history, art, and nature. This included a movie about the Northern Lights that was just spectacular.

Pioneers

2011-07-05T23:52:00.000-07:00

I suppose everybody's definition of pioneers may be different. Our experience today introduced us to pioneers of Alaska: Natives, sledders, and settlers. So awesome! We even got to tour a paddleboat and the highlight of the day was when Baby Boy got to "drive" the paddleboat.
The "low" was wanting to ride on the Gold Rush era steam train, but the mama didn't have cash, so we'll have to keep this on our list.
Still in awe of the playgrounds!

4th in Alaska

2011-07-05T01:00:00.000-07:00

It's the 4th in Alaska. Fireworks at midnight???
We've had fun including a traditional dinner despite the rain. I'm quite proud of myself for providing a meal for my family that included veggie hotdogs while not in my home town.
Other strange things I've noticed:
Odd combinations at restaurants - Chinese, Thai, and Sushi at one, Mexican, Italian, and Sushi at the other.
However, there are great things around here even besides the stunning scenery.
1. People are helpful.
2. Drivers are considerate.
3. Playgrounds are awesome! Even the indoor playgrounds.
4. The Salmon is sensational.
5. Are you ready - - - The shopping is great! While there is a major lack of shops, those that there are have incredible selection (at least in Fairbanks). The cool thing is the emphasis on being eco friendly and natural/organic.
Looking forward to exploring tomorrow.

Fairbanks

2011-07-03T19:56:00.000-07:00

Notes:
Even the tap water is cold!
When tourists more than double your wait in the grocery store, you must really work hard to remember they are a big part of the reason for your survival and not just a nuisance.
Everything may be bigger a better in Texas, but that's only because Alaskans aren't as vocal. Space has a different meaning around here.

The Giant Awakes!

2011-06-29T11:30:00.001-07:00

Ha ha! Not that anyone will check this, but I figure it will be a good record for us. We have arrived in the land of the midnight sun - at last! We started on Sunday, but returned to Grammy and Gramps after a day of waiting and not catching a flight. On Monday, we started again. After a few hours, I finally decided to take a chance. A quick flight to Boise, an overnight followed by half a day in the home of the Broncos and half a day in SEATAC and we arrived!
The benefit of arriving at midnight in Fairbanks is that you can see the scenery. Yes, it's weird, but fun. There is water and trees everywhere. It is gray - not my favorite color - but we will take a walk and go exploring while Matt and Mark do a couple quick runs.
Stay tuned for more. We'll at least have some adventures to share (like a full day of size 3 diapers on a size 5 and 6 kids :))

It's raining . . .

2009-12-07T12:50:00.000-08:00

It's raining (read dreary) and a "freezing" 50 degrees outside. We're house-bound and have only the prospect of Homework Club on the horizon. My friend is thousands of miles away and it seems my other friends are busy, busy with their own lives. Not that I blame them, it's just lonely.
A week from today, my Aussie relatives arrive and then it will be whirlwind once more. We're excited and apprehensive. Have a happy grey Monday, all!

I'm Back!!!

2009-08-31T22:35:00.000-07:00

After a long while, I'm back - at least for tonight :)
I have been busy, busy, which is really no excuse, but I'll use it anyway. It is an adventure every day. Friday is Baby Boy's birthday and I can barely believe that time has passed so quickly.
My Littlest One is already sitting like a pro and working hard on crawling. It is only a matter of time and everything will be different.
As we journey through this new stage of life our family is thankful for blessings. All of our lives are full.
No promises, but there may actually be updates soon.

Your Wish . . .

2009-07-14T14:42:00.000-07:00

Day 2 of VBS.
I'm waiting to fix the database - just as soon as the info is entered.
So, here's my update - for your amusement.

A Good Sabbath

2009-03-21T22:31:00.000-07:00

Spent quality time with Bubby and had supper at Mona Lisa! Wonderful toasted Caprese sandwich capped off an inspiring day or learning at the How 2 Conference! I am extremely grateful that God provides rejuvenation for us exactly when we need them. Had a great time learning with friends - but I'm not sure this is really what falls into the {MATERNITY LEAVE} definition.

Other Pics

2009-03-07T18:08:00.000-08:00

A Great Day!

2009-03-07T18:00:00.000-08:00

Today is what I would call a great day. I went to church today for a special event although I am on maternity leave. Today, we celebrated the goodness of God to our church in bringing us a phenomenal new Senior Pastor! Elder Chris Oberg preached her first sermon in our church today and was welcomed to our church in real style. The music was great, the ministries each presented a symbolic gift, and the church and conference joined together to dedicate Pastor Chris and her congregation to ministry in this community. It was an awesome day! My personal favorite was the children's choir singing, "He is Good." Kiddo got to sing in the choir and loved every moment. The feeling in the church was electric from the moment the service began. There was hardly room to sit and people were looking for any excuse possible to clap or celebrate. It was truly amazing. God is so good to take care of us in such clear ways.

2009-03-04T23:39:00.000-08:00

All except Baby Boy

Yay!

2009-03-03T23:18:00.000-08:00

So, we've been having a good day around here. My mother in law has been here loving on the kids and playing with them. Hubby worked in the yard and I didn't have too much pain. The kids have been great and Baby Boy has been super funny.
With a little more time and some more loving from my family, I might actually be ok, I think. Things have gone so well, in fact, that I've even had time for Facebook and some blog reading.
I learned tonight that my dear friend, Ilana, is pregnant! Yay! More babies! All the best, Morne and Ilana. We'll be praying for an uneventful but pleasant pregnancy.

Tooth count 2009

2009-03-01T20:51:00.000-08:00

So far in 2009,
Kiddo has lost 2 teeth and there are grown-up teeth just growing up in their place. Very exciting!
Baby Boy (who has seemed to be teething FOREVER!) finally cut tooth number 7 sometime in the last 24 hours! Yay!
In other news, today was a good day!
I relaxed and didn't go to ABL although I was tempted. While hubby worked in the yard to prepare it for grass, the kids played. They got so muddy it was hilarious.
I am reminded again how blessed I am to have such beautiful, healthy kids and such an awesome hubby.
Thank you, God!

She's Here!

2009-02-24T16:57:00.000-08:00

Sweet Amy Ann Grace, at least according to Kiddo is here. She's beautiful! and the people are doing well. I can't get a picture to post quite yet, but I'll try again tonight.

Only 4 days to go!

2009-02-19T23:08:00.000-08:00

Totally awesome to think that we only have 4 days to go - really - only 3. I'm finally excited to meet this little person who kicks all the ultrasound techs and already irritates her brother. I want to meet this sweet little person who will adore her older siblings and teach her daddy all over again what it means to have someone wrap you around their little finger.
Gramps asked Baby Boy yesterday if he wanted to come live at his house. Appropriately, he nodded and said, "yes." I thought his Gramps was going to die and go to heaven right there and then.
Sweet, sweet boy.
Both the kids got to spend quality time with dad today and seem to be better for it. I'm grateful for little unexpected blessings that benefit my kids so much. Thanks for loving daddies!

By Popular, or not so popular demand . . .

2009-02-05T20:53:00.000-08:00

No, we have no name yet!
Names under consideration
Taryn
Sarah
Aimee
Annie
Kimberly
Tanya
Shenae
NSTs because our first ultrasound indicated a Choroid Plexis Cyst in the left ventricle of the brain. Don't google it, it's not a pleasant experience. It is one of the indicators of a chromosomal complication. The only way to confirm or rule this out is through an amnio. Since neither hubby nor I saw any possibility of terminating the pregnancy, we elected not to have the amnio.
So, my very conservative doctor (which is why I chose him) has mandated 2 NSTs a week to be safe. He says this will help him prevent a stillbirth.
So, I do as I'm told and pray for the best. At the last full ultrasound the perinatologist said there was no more cyst. We'll take that and have faith that all will be hunky dory.
In the mean time, I have left Baby Boy and Kiddo with Hubby while I go to Children's Pastor's Conference in San Diego! What a thrill on so many levels. However, I am a little heartsore that Kiddo lost two front teeth last night and I wasn't there to celebrate with her. My Kiddo is growing up so fast!
Praying you all have a marvelous end to your week!

NST #1

2009-01-27T15:38:00.001-08:00

So, we went in for an NST today. "Should take no more than an hour," says the nurse. We arrived at 10:45am - we left at . . .
12:30.
Uh huh.
Sure, I believe the knowledgable nurse.
Seriously, I have one question. If you're not getting what you need, why do you leave me on the monitor, alone for 45 minutes first? Why not come in after 5 minutes and fix the jolly monitor?
Hubby keeps reminding me that a healthy baby is more important than time. I suppose I should listen, but such a blatant disregard for a person's time is annoying!
In other news Baby Boy's vocabulary is expanding rapidly.
Words he says clearly and consistently:
Cah - Car
this
juice
go
No
don't
Ba ba - Bubby
Emma
Mama
Daddy
Juice
Now if only he'd master "poopy."
He can even follow simple directions now! I told him to get his dummy the other day - and he did!
He loves to help - whether it's helping daddy in the garden, or mommy when she sets up tables and chairs at work, or gramps when he cleans the floors. He's even a pretty good supervisor.

Thanks

2009-01-26T00:27:00.000-08:00

Thanks for the prayers and the continuing support! I appreciate it all.
Tonight was the first real night of ABL - we handed out uniforms and it went really well. It was tiring, but inspiring. And only about 9 of the kids didn't pick up their uniforms. I can't wait for opening day. With any luck the season will go the same way.
So, pictures:

Doctors, visits, and maternity leave planning, oh my!

2009-01-20T23:51:00.000-08:00

Went to my doctor's appointment today. It's finally hit me that I'm in that stage where I have to see him more than once a month. Since I'm not allowed to take any children with me, this requires more planning. Arrggh.
Ok, I can do this.
I've been a star patient this week, I got my ultrasound done, did my 3 hour glucose test, and drank my water before I arrived! Yay me!
By the time I left - I have to have 2 NST tests every week for the next four weeks and meet with my doctor every week.
That, ladies and gents, is 3 appointments every week.
Arrggh!
In the mean time, I made a list of things that should and ought to be done before I go on maternity leave (not counting ABL which requires a list all it's own). Hee hee. My list is so long my blog doesn't even make it on the list. I know, you're not surprised.
I'm tired. Fell asleep in the waiting room, tired.
So, if you're in the mood for praying - - Please pray that I'll have more energy for the next four weeks.

Joy!

2008-12-30T11:30:00.000-08:00

Joy is watching my kids enjoy each other and their grandparents! Last night we had to have family worship like a "whole family." Now whether it was just an elaborate scheme to draw out bedtime or not remains to be determined. :)

I worry . . .

2008-12-27T14:10:00.000-08:00

. . . about everything. Most of the time I am able to keep it in check and not obsess too much. My father might say I don't worry enough. And there are those who won't believe a word I just typed.
Since I've had children, I've made a conscious choice to try to worry less, assume the best, and attempt to live with a "glass half full" attitude. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. (Have I mentioned - I'm melancholy?)
I digress.
Lately, I've been worrying that my 'mini-me' will turn out exactly like me. This, in my opinion, would be horrible for her. I want my Kiddo to be better. Given that I am acutely aware that I am no longer the only significant influence in her life, I find myself continually assessing her behavior, language, and attitude. What is the result of lack of sleep or balance? What is becoming a bad habit? Did she pick that up from friends at school? Is that bad behavior becoming a habit? So many things to think about (yes, worry about) and try to train before I run out of time.
So, under Hubby's wise counsel, I have been trying to simply take a breath and enjoy who she is and what she needs without being the "witchy" reactive boss I can sometimes be.
This vacation has been great for that! The more time I spend observing her and actually recognizing her for who God created her to be, the more amazed I am. I have always enjoyed her and every stage she has grown through, but I must admit that I am particularly partial to this time in her life. She is becoming a sweet, compassionate, wise young lady. As she tries to assert her independence (sometimes inappropriately) I worry or get offended, but as I take a breath and see her, really see her, I find myself proud of who she is becoming.
I am not foolish enough to believe that who she is because of her genes or because of what we have done as parents. Rather, I know that everything plays into who God is creating her to be and what He wants her to do. It's really quite mind-blowing!
A few nights ago, Hubby and Kiddo watched some America's Funniest Home-videos after Baby Boy had gone to sleep and I was puttering around the house. It was cute to hear her laugh and share these special moments with her dad. At one point, I was summoned to see the little boy throwing a tantrum because he got clothes for Christmas. Wow~!
Sure enough, on Christmas morning, my children got clothes for Christmas. Clothes they need and their mommy really wants. A tremendous blessing from grandparents who truly desire the best for their grandkids. And, each of the kids will get more clothes when we have our New Year's Christmas with my family.
Kiddo opened her box and gasped . . . "clothes, I really wanted beautiful clothes for Christmas!" And my heart leaped for joy. It seems so simple really, to be able to appreciate a gift. We take it forgranted that our children know they are fortunate to have what they do. And then, a pure joy response to something that could be viewed as mundane and I realize that somewhere she has gotten the true meaning of Christmas, giving, and being grateful.
For sure, I have to worry less about my Kiddo being a well-adjusted, lover of God, when I see moments like this. Thanks be to God for my Christmas blessing this year - a glimpse of who He seems my child being.
Moral of the Story - the worrying about God-sized problems is best left to . . . God!

Week of the Whirlwind!

2008-12-20T21:25:00.000-08:00

So, my week, as I imagine yours was as well, was a whirlwind. I have no idea where the time went. I know I was busy all the time.
I preached today - about the angels and Jesus' birth. I agree with my mom that I should have had a Women's Chorus to sing "Glory to God in the Highest" at the appropriate time. Other than that, I think it turned out alright.
The service was the kind I like - a little bit of everything nice without a whole lot of wading or slogging through difficult/boring stuff. But the definite highlight of the whole morning was the Christmas Connection at the end of the service. People from the congregation poured onto the platform to pick up a name, address, and box of food to deliver to a needy family in our area. It was astonishing! I've been involved with this project in some capacity for the last 3 years and saw families participating for the first time this year that have never participated in the past. New people helped pack the boxes. Totally different people picked up boxes to take to families. Devo's idea of really involving the congregation was GOLD!
I was struck that this really is the way we get to experience real Christmas - when we reach out.
I've had the Veggietales song, "There must be more to Christmas" stuck in my head all week as I prepared my sermon. I chose not to include it as part of my sermon, but watching our congregation respond really showed that at least at LSUC, there is more to Christmas. It was really fabulous to be part of this community of faith.

A New Week!

2008-12-15T20:54:00.000-08:00

Yes, it is a new week and I have new perspective. I even cooked today - twice! I know I should have warned you to sit down. :)
Kids' Church went off well despite my frustration. I guess that's what happens when you actually allow God to be in control.
We had our staff Christmas party on Sunday night and despite my obvious lack of energy, it was really enjoyable. Hubby even managed to show up by the end. (A feat of no small proportion given that he worked in Warner Springs on Sunday.)
Today has been a miserable weather day. I believe it rained non-stop all day. I say I believe because I wasn't about to go out and check. Baby Boy and I got soaked taking Kiddo to school and doing centers. We subsequently came home, had a nice warm bath and covenanted to stay inside where it's dry.
We went out once more to pick her up from school and it confirmed that we should rather stay inside. So we did. The kids had a little cabin fever by the end of the day, but probably not as badly as they could have had if their dear Daddy hadn't made such a nice play space in the garage!
So, I'm off to prep a sermon, try to produce a new series of Devos to Go with my colleagues (before Christmas), finish up Christmas shopping, and somewhere in there get ready to go back east.
Please be kind to my parents while I'm gone. They're home alone for Christmas, which my mom HATES!!! Bubby's in South Africa. Let's pray together that she has a good time eventhough she's anticipating an emotionally draining trip.

Whine, whine, and more whine

2008-12-11T21:28:00.001-08:00

My mother, whom I referred to Leilani's Blog to see the most amazing little ultrasound picture, said I should go read it and be encouraged. Ha!
Today, in case you missed it, is NOT a good day. I feel incompetent in every aspect of my life. This is a tad unusual because usually I feel inadequate in several areas, but at least somewhat competent in one or two. (Yes, the lot of a melancholy, perfectionist.) But today I am acutely aware that I am not competent in any area. I recognize that this is probably not reality, but it doesn't help me FEEL any better.
I've yelled at my children (I hate this.)
Couldn't pull my act together at work (Pray Kids Church actually happens this weekend.)
The list goes on and on to bad friend, lousy wife, and stinky sister/sister-in-law.
Add to that - really whiny blogger who only shows up to vent and you have a "perfect" incompetent. Yay!
Oh well, the good thing is that I'm pregnant. Hormones fluctuate and I am unlikely to wake up feeling quite as miserable as I am right now. So, we'll look forward to a new day and better choices.
A word to the wise - if you're feeling like you don't accomplish enough in a day - don't read Leilani's Blog!
If you need inspiration to be a better person and more considerate of how you use your resources; space, time, money, etc. by all means stop by and relish in her industry~!
Ahh, my friend, you make the second trimester look like bliss!

P.S. Kate, the pie turned out great. Hubby said it's the best he's ever had. Of course, that's probably because he disinfected it with Caramel. (I bought it just in case it needed it.) But it made Kiddo and I feel great anyway! We might actually try it again.

Happy weekend, everyone!

Thanksgiving preparations

2008-11-25T23:28:00.000-08:00

Check out these preparations for Thanksgiving. Kiddo's Thanksgiving show last week. Thanks to Shelley for the pics.

In other news, Kiddo and I made an apple pie today! Hubby will give the verdict when he tastes it tomorrow. Since it's the first time we've ever attempted such a thing in our home, we sure hope it turns out well.

Sweet, sweet girl!

2008-11-20T02:21:00.000-08:00

Tonight during highs and lows my Kiddo said the best part of her day was when I picked her up at school. See, last night she unexpectedly spent the night at Grammy and Gramps' house. She loves to do that, but she certainly did NOT like being left without knowing it. Worse yet, her mama came and got Baby Boy, but not her.
Again I was struck by how important it is to tell her what to expect and to keep promises that we make to her.
Hubby's schedule for December was posted today. Since he's pretty senior in the bid I expect that he'll get pretty much what he bids for. WRONG! Kiddo's very first Christmas program is December 18. Guess who has to fly until 11:39pm on December 18? Arrggghhh!
Kiddo has been practicing her "show" all week. Any time Grammy or Bubby ask for a song or her lines, she seems happy to oblige. Baby Boy and I will be there with our rolls and butter, but that's all I can promise. She's pretty amazing and the things she has learned in the last three months are astonishing. I wish everyone could be there to witness this "Thanksgiving Show," but in case you can't be there we'll post pics later.
And then, we're doing our best to make sure that EVERYONE in Kiddo's family will be there to celebrate her first Christmas Concert.

Short hiatus . . .

2008-11-14T22:28:00.000-08:00

There is a good explanation for my absence. Really. I've been busy!
I know, it's not a shock.
The reality is life's been a little crazy around here, but oddly reassuring in a sense. Hubby's been working job #1 for 4 or 5 days each week and then going out of town to work job #2 for 1 or 2 days a week. It hasn't been as stressful as I anticipated because I've gotten a handle on keeping ahead of the laundry and house cleaning. Thanks to Lisa for the helping hand here and there and to Liz for excellent babysitting.
Bottom line is we're surviving and I've only really lost my rag twice. This feels good.
Baby Boy is finally sleeping in his own bed most of the night.
Kiddo had her first report card which was amazing.
The down side of the whole business is that as usual, when I feel like I'm keeping up at work it is usually associated with a feeling of some incompetence at work. In the constant striving to find balance between to the two, I often feel like one side or the other is winning. However, the fact that I continue to attempt to find balance has to count for something. Doesn't it?
In the mean time, as we prepare for Thanksgiving in this part of the world. I want you to know that I am thankful for all of you, my friends, and your prayers and support.
What are you thankful for?

Granny's Surgery

2008-10-29T19:41:00.000-07:00

Evidently, the surgery went just as expected which I guess it means it went well. When she woke up, she wanted to go home. I suppose this day after surgery is always easier than the next two will be. Thanks for all your prayers and keep praying that things will go well and she will be able to keep up her courage.

What's up lately.

2008-10-28T01:43:00.000-07:00

So here's the deal. We got back from Australia and only 1 week later my mom left for South Africa to go and pick up my grandparents. She spent a couple days in the Cape and a couple days in Johannesburg and then we all found out . . .
my Granny will be having a mastectomy on Wednesday. Arrrgh! So, the plans change drastically. We'll not be having Christmas with my grandparents. My mom has to decide what she's going to do about vacation time and FMLA. All of us get to hang out on this side of the ocean and try to figure out how to love and support and when the right time it is to show up.
So, please pray for all of us, but especially my Granny!

I'm pooped!

2008-10-23T21:18:00.000-07:00

I finally have some energy at week 20 and every night this week I've gotten home, put the kids to bed, and passed out. I've been trying really hard to stay on top of the clutter, laundry, and dishes. I've tried to make Kiddo's lunch the night before and make sure Baby Boy has a bottle for the middle of the night (rice milk, by the way). It's all simply too much, I guess.
Oh well, I keep telling myself this too shall pass. I won't be pregnant forever, even if it feels like it.
On to lighter things. I haven't posted pics of our trip because I had trouble downloading them from the DVD I was given - all 1000 of them. But here goes.
Thanks to my uncle Jonathan for all the great photos! I am aware that I was in the presence of greatness.
Matt and his kids :)
Megs, Nath, (affectionately known as the cousins) Kiddo, and Baby Boy
Nathan loved Baby Boy and was rewarded with a puppy dog type of devotion
There were some who thought all we did this holiday was wait.
Gramps, Grammy, and Baby Boy in the cable car at Taronga Zoo
"Me and My 'china'!"
The Sydney Opera House by night - just to prove we were really there.
Kiddo playing with the water at the Lindt Cafe - You didn't think we'd miss that did you? It was even better than I imagined. Think Ghirardelli Square on steroids!
The Fish Market - amazing and fun!

Marathon day

2008-10-01T17:43:00.000-07:00

Well, it should be no surprise that this family is all about making the most of each day and spending time together. Each day, we have a plan to see Australia (mostly Sydney) and have fun with the kids. Yesterday, we left early and took the train to the city, the ferry to the zoo and tromped around the zoo for most of the day. It was wonderful and fun. We even took the cable car around the zoo and took pics of the kids with the koalas. When we were ready to leave of the ferry we realized we had more time and plenty of credit on our transportation passes. Why not stop by Bondi Beach? So, we all (12) hurried up and jumped on the bus. Went to Bondi Beach and walked around while we watched Kiddo and Baby Boy enjoy the beautiful sand and all the South Africans enjoyed the waves from a distance. We had coffee and refreshments at McCafe and prepared for the return trip. When Baby Boy had a meltdown on the last bus and I fell asleep on the train, we realized we might have been a bit ambitious. Perhaps today will just be a day of leisure. :)
Oh, just for clarification (We got out of the house at 8:45am and got in around 9:30pm and there's a 17 hour time difference.)

Sydney and family

2008-09-29T02:39:00.000-07:00

Wow! We've been here a whole 13 hours and 12 minutes and it's astonishing! Being with family is just RIGHT. My kids took to my cousins within minutes of meeting them. They're so comfortable here that Kiddo is currently fast asleep on one of their beds, no whining, crying, or complaining! Baby Boy is running around the house playing with whom ever will give him the time of day.
Everybody pitches in to do chores easily and agrees to relax, chat, and laugh in between. We've gone shopping, for a walk, cooked lunch, supper, had tea, had a birthday party for Nath in the park, and strategized our week together.
No angst involved. Just fun!
My dad and I, the melancholies in the family, are already dreading leaving. So, I'm consciously deciding to ignore all clocks, calendars, and anything else that indicates where we are in the week! Everyone is on holiday for the week and since we haven't seen each other in 5 years, we're going to have fun.
This promises to be just what the doctor ordered - vacation, rest, and love. (Not in that order! :))
Hope you all have a good week and don't miss us too much!

Stress!

2008-09-25T22:21:00.000-07:00

We're getting ready for our trip. Good heavens, so much to do and so little time. I've been running every day and still have a 12 item to do list. Here's hoping I get it done and packed before we're due to leave.
Kiddo is excited despite the prospect of having to miss school. Baby Boy is doing well, but I can see we're going to have to be walking a lot.
In the mean time, Aunty Lisa moved back into the dorm and started school. Bubby bought a new house and is moving in while we're gone. So, we're all fun and games around here.
For all those dying to know how we survived last weekend: Baby Boy and Kiddo did fine! Yay! Hubby did great and inspired many a traveller with his daddy guts to travel with his kids alone. I had a relaxing Friday afternoon and watched WAY too much TV. Sabbath I did church etc. and a quick trip to the Mission site in Mexico with my parents and sister. I slept in on Sunday, made myself German pancakes for brunch, scrapped a bit, and snapped twice. Meetings in the evening and then bed. They all showed up on Monday and Kiddo went to school. All in all a good day when we all went to the ultrasound and discovered we're having a . . . GIRL!
Talk to you all later.

The Little-ist

2008-09-19T16:08:00.000-07:00

Thank you Ladyboyd for the question and great title!

Honestly, I'm paranoid and scared. It's taken me awhile to admit, but there it is in black and white. Except for the nausea and the growing belly, I wouldn't believe I'm pregnant. It's just bizarre.

But as far as the baby goes, all seems to be going well. We'll have an ultrasound and then an appointment this next week so we'll find out for sure.

I still haven't decided if I'm going to find out the gender of the baby or not. So, what do you think? Yes, or no?

I'm also beginning being the pregnant delinquent. I was supposed to have my "blood test" in the last month - before the appointment - but haven't yet. Suppose it's time to get it together and just do it.

Well, there's the update on the Little one.

By the way, Hubby took Kiddo and Baby boy to NE with him to see the family so I'm on my own this weekend. Any ideas about what I should do with my time?

Have a great one!

Update

2008-09-18T01:07:00.001-07:00

Your wish is my command . . .
Well, at least this one is. We've been working this schedule thing. Some days are better than others. I suppose the hardest part is the constant change. A typical day involves us getting up and getting school, all three of us. Kiddo goes to class and for at least two days each week, Baby Boy and I walk further down to go do worship in another classroom. Work comes next and a bit of lunch. More work, pick Kiddo up and visit a couple of classrooms to make appointments for next week and home for an hour. A couple of days a week we go to gymnastics, but either way we start supper at about 5 and do some homework (at least on the days we don't have early meetings)and then eat and get ready for bed. Ideally, the kids go to bed and I do more work, either at home or in meetings.
The big thing in our lives right now is that we are looking for a Senior Pastor for our church. This means that all the associates have a bit more on their plates and the church leadership is eager to meet a bit more regularly to keep on top of everything. It's really nice to feel the support of wise people around you when so much is in flux.
However, for our family it's just another thing to add into the schedule, especially when Hubby is splitting his time between Palm Springs, Riverside, and Camarillo. So, a good schedule is really important at this time of our lives and also almost impossible. We try to do the best we can with what we have, but honestly, I think I'm more tired now than I've ever been. As long as we take it one day at a time, anything can be overcome, I suppose.
So, if you're so motivated, please pray for us and our church. We could sure use all the help we can get.

School work, home work

2008-09-01T12:01:00.000-07:00

I hate schedules! In fact I have resisted putting my children eating, sleeping, playing, etc. schedules as long as possible. Opting rather, to try and figure out their natural rhythms. :)
So, the other part of being in school is to be more regulated by schedule than previously. Most of the schedule is set around Emma's school schedule. We get up in our house in time to get Kiddo to school, work while she's in school, pick her up at the right time and then plan supper and bed time around what time she needs to get up for school. Needless to say, things have changed a lot in our home. Good changes, I think.
As we've all attempted to adapt to this "new" life, we've also tried to anticipate some of the additional things we might have to add into our schedule. Each day, Kiddo has come home disappointed that she didn't have homework. On Friday, we got our first homework packet. Yay!
Our project over the weekend has been to decorate her book box which is due on Wednesday. Her real homework is to write a story (with a grown-up's help) and draw a picture with it. This is due on Friday.
So, my plan was to do "crafts" once a day and get bits and pieces of the book box done while we were in Palm Springs taking a few days off. Any finishing touches could be done when we get home.
Aunty Lisa helped Kiddo do her journal on Friday afternoon and we should be all done for this week. I hope!
Now, she'll be sad all week that she doesn't have any more homework, but her mommy is pleased. So many things to remember!

Crazy Kindergarten Parents/Grandparents!

2008-08-24T17:42:00.000-07:00

I have held, for the last three years as I have been associated with our school, that Kindergarten parents or certifiably CRAZY! From the first day of school when some refuse to leave their children "alone" to the graduation at the end of the year, these parents are in a class all their own.
On August 21, I joined the ranks of the crazy. And while I like to think of myself as a tad less certifiable, I am aware that with all the firsts that will come this year, I am totally crazy! What else could explain my elation at Kiddo's statement that she's going to obey all 6 rules in her classroom? Craziness I tell you.
However, the truly CRAZY, CRAZY people in the family are Grammy and Gramps. Grammy who phoned at least every half hour on the first day of school to see how things were going. Gramps who took pics of everything from the line to the tour. And maybe Bubby too who phoned me numerous times to tell everything I needed to check with the teacher and what I should tell the teacher and what I should look out for.
Truth be told, the CRAZY is all motivated by a deep and love and care for the well-being of our precious one, but to the casual observer it certainly looks just CRAZY.
Thank you, loved ones for caring so much. And thank you for making this first week of school truly memorable. (Thanks Leilani for reminding us to celebrate with a meal together!)

In other news . . .

2008-08-17T23:31:00.000-07:00

I closed my right thumb in the door of the Suburban today. It still hurts like a bugger!

I also went to a rather eclectic funeral today. It was inspiring and uplifting and also sad. Which only further accentuated the obvious . . .

Yes, it's true! We're expecting a new bundle in March 2009! Ack, now you can obsess and stress with me. By the way, for the curious, I'm thrilled and scared to death as well. I hear raising two babies so close is like having twins. With any luck,this will only be a singleton, not the twins Matt keeps threatening. :)

Joy of joys!

2008-08-14T21:34:00.000-07:00

Sweet children! As we prepare Kiddo for school, I seem to be more observant of her problem solving skills and various people skills in varied situations. I am more and more impressed with her abilities. She really has grown into a smart little cookie. I think she will do well at school if simply for the social aspect. Today she stated, "Mama, do you know that all the friends are going to be at my school? Even the new friends."
I, on the other hand have been worried almost full-time about the various and sundry things mommies worry about when they send their kids out of the nest. But as I am learning every day, some things you worry about in vain and the things that you really should worry about are the very things you absolutely can't control and ought to simply leave in the hands of the most capable individual of all time, God.
In the mean time, Baby Boy has been struggling with allergies and some related asthma. One of the side-effects of living in our neck of the woods, I understand.
And, looking at sweet pics of duckmomma's kids and Kiddo said, "We could send them pictures, too, Mommy." So, here they are, per her special request.

See?

2008-08-02T00:23:00.000-07:00

See how I haven't posted since my vacation? That's what my life has felt like. Totally busy with no time to think. All of the last six weeks, with the exception of July 19-26 which was slightly better. So, here's what's been up in our lives since June 19 in bullet points, of course!

- Returned from VA to do final planning and meetings for VBS.
- Had my house professionally cleaned. (Thank you, sis, mom, and dad!)
- Took a road trip for 4th of July weekend to Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, and Monument Valley (in an RV with too many people.)
- Helped my sister finish her intensive class at LSU.
- Ate, slept, and dreamed VBS finalization. Found out my preschool director wasn't going to be around for VBS (ack!)
- Went to the Dentist
- Took Kiddo to the Dentist, Doctor, and got shots for school
- Celebrated Baby Boy's 2 new teeth
- Did VBS-Power Lab (God blessed in amazing ways!)
- Preached for VBS Sabbath
- Packed for 3 people for 5 days in two little bags (in 25 minutes no less)
- Flew to Honolulu, Hawaii (First time ever!)
- Spent 2 days in a hotel room while my mom and sis spent their days in the hospital (mom in bed, Sis looking out for her.)
- Hung out around Oahu for 5 days (Kiddo went swimming with dolpins for Bubby's birthday, Bubby and I went snorkeling in Hanauma Bay - awesome!)
- Came home on stand-by (yay! I was really scared we'd have trouble getting home.)
- Found out my Senior Pastor is leaving us to go to the conference.
- Took Kiddo to the dentist for fillings. (Ick)

Now, I just need to take care of the rest of my life. Like strategic planning for the next year. Shopping for school clothes and lunch supplies. Oh, and building a workable family structure for our lives which will now include school! Yay! Kiddo is excited and just waiting to start. I'm a little sad but also excited about spending a little time alone with Baby Boy. He would be excited too, if he knew what that meant, I think.
Enough for today, so Happy Sabbath!

Sweet Kids

2008-06-19T18:53:00.000-07:00

We're in Virginia - commonly known by Kiddo as "Wes Vahginia." Our purpose is to go to campmeeting. In the meantime Kiddo gets to play with cousins all day and go to "Sabbath School" twice a day. What fun it is to see them play together and enjoy each other's company.
Tonight at prayer time, both Kiddo and her cousin said that the best part of their day was that they had friends at their house.
A list of things they did today:
Ran through rain puddles,
created crafts,
played games,
went for a tractor ride,
took the little boys for a ride,
drove the wagon down lane,
and jumped on the bed together.
It really makes us wish that we lived so much closer to each other. I have dreamed of the kids having enough space and the inclination to play and explore around the house. It's been too fun for words and the bonus is that the mommies and daddies get time to chat and play too.
Pics later, I suppose.

Break through!

2008-06-16T23:15:00.000-07:00

I have been trying for a couple of months to get Baby Boy to sign. We've been working hard on "more" and "all done." With little to no success . . . until last night. After a quick potty stop at McDonald's, where Bubby bought ice-cream, we were sitting in the car and he did it! Again, and again, and again he signed "more" by putting his little hands together and holding them. (Not exactly right, but good enough.) Yes, he was requesting ice-cream. He LOVES the stuff, evidently. So, no more pulling one over on the Mama who now knows that he can sign. It's very exciting.

P.S. Bubby keeps claiming that he doesn't like her but no one will believe her after this weekend. Baby Boy will stop whatever he's doing if he thinks she'll come over and play. He gives her kisses, sucks on her face, and gives her the best belly laughs.

Our car

2008-06-10T22:55:00.000-07:00

The saga that is our Mercury Sable. So, here is the short story.
Car stolen: May 5 (off the street in front of our house)
Car found: May 30 (1 street up from the church, that's a whole mile from our house!)
Condition of recovered car: Exactly the same as when it was stolen. No damage.
Condition of contents: Some Sabbath School stuff still in the car, a Sabbath Bag, Bible, Emma's toys, carseats - all fine. Matt's flight bag, lunch bag, passport, various and sundry tech gadgets - gone.
Cost of being able to drive said recovered vehicle: $412 in impound/storage fees, $50 in gas, two street sweeper tickets, and a stomach of steel to handle the smoky smell and unsettling feeling that someone else has been doing who knows what in YOUR car.
Arrrgh! We are mostly grateful to have our car back but frustrated by the incovenience and time consumed with all the little details.

Gymnastics Show

2008-06-08T22:05:00.000-07:00

I have tried, unsuccessfully for a few days now to post video of Kiddo at the gymnastics show. These very bad pics will have to suffice. In the mean time, Hubby and I are having a discussion about whether we should purchase a new camera or not. The options: 1. an HD video camera (hubby's preference), 2. A digital SLR (my preference), or 3. stick with what we have and save the money.
So, post away, convince us of your point of view. :)

I'm a collector!

2008-06-01T23:33:00.000-07:00

And admitting it is the first step to recovery, right?

In all seriousness. There are just some things I like to collect. Like fabric. Well, I determined this week that I wanted a new diaper bag but everything I looked at was far too expensive for my budget.
So, I found a box of fabric. Pulled out a pattern. And so, I spent the afternoon sewing a bag. Of course, the pattern I picked wasn't exactly like I envisioned so I did a bit of adapting. (Little things like putting pockets inside and adding a zipper.)
It came out pretty well, I think. It was also much cheaper than buying one. Now we'll see if I like it as well. So, here for your viewing pleasure is my "free" home-made bag.

See, pockets!

Photographer in training!

2008-05-30T22:35:00.001-07:00

Kiddo got to go flying in a Sail Plane with her Daddy today. She thought she was the luckiest girl in the world. Interestingly enough, so did her daddy. So, here are pics of Kiddo in the plane, her daddy flying, and the view from the cockpit. Everything in flight - taken by my talented daughter! Yay!

And lest I forget - - - Baby Boy officially sucked out of a straw today! We certainly have a big boy on our hands.

We are African!

2008-05-26T23:36:00.000-07:00

Today, after a couple of instances, I made the comment to my sister. We must be African or something. :)
See, Baby Boy has been sick and subsequently wants to be with the Mama all the time. Touching the Mama the whole time! This is extremely wearing when there are things to be done and places to go. After several "episodes," I finally decided I would try tying him on my back. Much the way the African women do. And voila, he was content for the next 20 minutes while we continued to do what needed to be done. It was a good feeling.
We went shopping this afternoon and Kiddo joyously tried on her clothes (which we already purchased) while Bubby and I tried on our choices. When she was done, she packed up all her clothes in the bag, rolled it up, and put it . . . on top of her head. "Look, mommy, I can carry my clothes on my head!"
Yes, indeed, you can take the girl out of Africa, but you can't take Africa out of the girl! WE ARE AFRICAN!
Have a good week!

Oops!

2008-05-04T16:26:00.000-07:00

Good intentions . . .
So the deal was that I was planning to post once a week. That obviously never happened. But life has been crazy around here and I didn't ever realize that it's been a whole, entire month!
Each week I know the next week will be better, but it isn't. I feel like I'm constantly playing catch up.
After the last couple of days and great conversations with people I admire, I'm more convinced than ever that it needs to be getting back to basics. Thanks to Leilani's handy links, Amy's Humble Musings has a great thought on drills for baseball and the advantages of working on the fundamentals first. This really rings true for me. Perhaps the challenge for this week is to work the fundamentals of spirituality and then the fundamentals of mothering and let the frills come later.

Just had to share . . .

2008-04-01T23:02:00.000-07:00

Ok, I'm sorry for the missing bits. I'm finally feeling like I may be coming out of the fog.
Anyway, the funniest thing happened today. Kiddo got dressed this morning and came out. I didn't recognize the pants she was wearing, but she looked so very cute in the little white capris and pink shirt! I asked her where she got the pants and got the expected, "in my drawer," response. A little later I happened to notice that they were fleece. I knew for sure I didn't remember her having a pair of white, fleece, capri pants.
Finally, on the way to the airport, I figured out where she must have gotten the pants. Maybe the pants aren't really white, but really light blue. Oy!
Baby Boy got the cutest light, light blue fleece track suit and it must have ended up in her drawer. Yep, after we got home, I checked the tags.
Ladies and gents, the Kiddo was wearing 6/9 month old pants. Eek!
Wonder of wonders and they actually fitted AND looked cute.

Giggles and Ga's

2008-02-12T22:42:00.000-08:00

Baby Boy is such a pleasure lately. He's totally got the giggling thing down and we're so enjoying it. He's ticklish and seems to have a sense of humour such as it is. He loves his sister so much. His whole little body seems to get this electric charge going through the moment he hears her speak or sees her face. It's so incredibly cute.
He tries to talk back to her when she plays with him, reads to him, or sings to him. I swear he's convinced that he can actually be understood. Sweet boy.
Tonight he discovered Amelie. Aunty Karen could hardly keep him in her lap, he was trying so hard to go and get her! Amelie on the other hand was concentrating on balancing sufficiently to take steps. I can hardly believe she's so big already.
As I watch my children develop friendships, I pray that they will become lasting friendships. I have gotten older and, hopefully, wiser and found myself wishing I had more long-term friendships.

Baseball

2008-02-10T23:34:00.000-08:00

Baseball is taking over our family! Kiddo is finally old enough to join the baseball league I coordinate (not sure this is the right word). After watching me go off to ABL (Adventist Baseball League) each Sunday during the season for 2 years, she can come too. Opening day was rained out, but today was beautiful!!!
Kiddo and Lisa showed up on time to play and had a great time. Of course, the most important part was the pink glove and pink ball. But, the Mommy loved seeing the girl play and looks forward to rest of the season together.
I love watching her grow and develop and get involved in "growing up" things.
It's also really great to watch all the other kids enjoy the game and learning so much. It rejuvenates that thing which is within me that drives me to continue doing my job. The idea is that by providing opportunities and guidance these children will be encouraged to develop a relationship with Jesus and our church. I hope that by being there we give them better options for "Christian development and spiritual growth" than they might otherwise have.

Blog-warming

2008-02-07T23:13:00.000-08:00

Tee hee. My friend Leilani has taken her blogging to a new level. Now, go look at it, support it and pass the word along. You'll enjoy it, I promise!

Happy Birthday, Kiddo!

2008-01-24T22:33:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday, Sweet Kiddo! Hello Kitty
Pony Up!

Update

2008-01-17T23:36:00.000-08:00

Ha on me! Baby Boy loved the rice cereal, but evidently his little digestive system is having a fit. Poor guy was so going just nuts trying to pass this new stuff. Of course, when he did it went EVERYWHERE! (Yes, I know you love when I share this stuff!)
Oh well, I guess that's part of being a mom. It's pretty amazing to me how much more in tne I am with this little guy as opposed to how dense I was with Kiddo. I suppose some of that is experience, but I also think that I am just a more attentive mom. (Will you remind me I said that when I'm feeling incompetent again?)
Each day with Baby Boy seems to teach me more about myself, both my children, and definitely more about God. I am astonished at how much I am able to figure out what Baby Boy needs from just listening to his cues. I figure I'm already getting an idea of what kind of personality he has. I figure all of this teaches me that God's love is so much bigger than I could ever imagine. How He loves me and cares for my needs is incredible even when I don't know what I need. Basking in His presence is like being at home instantly no matter where I am. Just like everything is right with his world when Baby Boy sees his Mama!
In other news, I made the casserole from the Pioneer Woman website and it was pretty good despite my "substitutions." Next time, I will saute the onions first and cook the spaghetti a little less. All in all, however, I think it was a success. We'll see what Hubby has to say when he gets home.
Just for fun - here's a pic, I don't remember having posted here, that I really love.

Success!

2008-01-16T18:36:00.001-08:00

Success is an interesting thing. I wonder how people define success on a regular basis. For most of my professional life, I have defined success as meeting the need of at least one member in my congregation. Each one is important, you see.
As a mother I have questioned my success repeatedly, especially over the last few months.
Tonight I experienced success in a new way. See, I've been having a bit of trouble keeping up with Baby Boy's appetite. I know there could be a lot of reasons for this, including a growth spurt, but it has caused me to fret none the less. So, today, on a whim, I purchased some rice cereal. He might eat it, I thought. While I was baking my casserole {gasp, I know, on a week night!} I just quickly whipped up some rice cereal with a bit of breast milk. (I know, it wasn't quite that quick or easy, but I'm optimistic!)
Wouldn't you know, he LOVED it! How do I know? He yelled at me every time I even thought about walking away. He opened his mouth in anticipation. He even let Kiddo feed him a spoonful.
Tonight - success looks like a happy baby smiling back at me as put the bowl away and sign "all done." And while the success feels good, I must admit that I am not ready for this step. However, I know that there are very few things that I am ready for before they must be done. Perhaps this is God's lesson for me today - sometimes that which we are not ready for but attempt anyway will be that which makes us feel most successful. What do you think?
P.S. The casserole was awesome, thanks to the pioneer woman.

A Great Link!

2008-01-09T23:40:00.000-08:00

So, I've been trying to think of good ideas for an entry and been disheartened by the brilliant entries of my friends. Check out this particularly stirring blog about South Africa by Leilani.
Look at the beautiful pictures on Lissette's blog.
But the place I've spent the most time this evening is here. Please, go check it out and learn something. It's fun and it won't hurt, I promise!

Guess what?

2008-01-02T23:52:00.000-08:00

Hubby is out of town for only 2 more nights this week and then he'll be home! Yay! Yes, I'm trying to stay optimistic.
I hate it when he's out of town, but will try to survive. In the mean time, I've taken his parents to the airport and successfully taken care of my kids without losing my temper once. Yay for me! :)
On the car front, Hubby changed the spark plugs and the stinkin' car was still acting up -- until I filled it with gas on Monday night. Now it starts just fine. Go figure. I am so glad that it doesn't seem to be anything exhorbitant.
So, the new year seems to be getting off to a decent start. I'll let you know if it truly is decent when I've had my first ABL evaluation.

Also, in our news, Kiddo said today, "that's what we do, right mommy?"
"What do we do, Kiddo?"
"That's what we do in our family, isn't it mommy?"
"What do we do, Kiddo?"
"We call each other lots of names."
"Yes, Skidokie, we call each other lots of different kinds of names."
"Yes, like we call Baby Boy, Little Dude."

I thought it was a humorous. Have a great day!

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-28T22:42:00.000-08:00

Life here has been busy, but the latest hiatus is due to no internet access while we've been on vacation. It was good and relaxing and we certainly could have used some more. This weekend we have family in from VA and UT and we'll be having a good time together. As Oupa and Granny's time with is coming to an end we're trying to make sure we have plenty of memories. I'll be blogging about those and some of our traditions later. For now, here are pictures of our Christmas morning.

P.S. Here, as a bonus, a picture of my "Wise Girl"

My Car and Miscellaneous Thoughts.

2007-12-17T23:10:00.000-08:00

My car is still acting up. Hubby's replaced the spark plugs and worked on it a bit, but it still doesn't do well. The challenge is that I just don't feel totally comfortable until I'm actually on the road. Oh well, since we don't really need to drive it for the next couple of weeks, I'll survive.
Vacation keeps on chilling Kiddo out and it's exciting to see. She's having a great time playing with Grammy and can't wait for someone to play with her. We look forward to seeing how fun she will be by Christmas.

Arrg

2007-12-10T22:23:00.000-08:00

My car is acting up. It couldn't come at a worse time, but I suppose we'll survive. It just seems that once you've paid off your car, it becomes a money pit. So, please pray for us that we'll figure it out and not have to spend too much money.

Christmas Cards

2007-12-06T21:58:00.000-08:00

I unpacked my christmas cards today. Makes me wonder how these traditions get started. However, I think it's a great way to keep up to date with people you're not in the same area with. I've been reading on "Two Peas" that people hate reading form letters. Is this true for you?
Personally, I like the letters more than the cards. I like getting the news of the last year and hearing what each family is important to share. I love getting them in mail and seeing how the kids have grown.
So, in the end, I don't care how it started or why it continues. I really don't mind doing the Christmas cards so long as we exchange.

The BEST thing!

2007-12-04T22:01:00.000-08:00

A few days have past and the glow is still there. I find myself humming, or singing. My children get the benefit of a suitably adjusted perspective. Sabbath was a marvelous day. Busy, but invigorating. I did Early Church, Sabbath School, and Church. We had a quick lunch and got back to the church for the Children's Choir Vespers. It was stunning!
The children sang beautifully. The bell choir played wonderful music. The narrators were composed and well-spoken. But the best by far, were the "little lambs." Yes, it is a biased opinion as Kiddo was a little lamb, but they were amazing. Little children innocently walking down the long aisle to see the baby Jesus. It was stunning in it's simplicity. And, yet reminded me what a deep thing it really is that "all we like sheep [may] have gone astray," but there is hope in the birth of the baby Jesus. If only we set our faces in His direction, we will be drawn to Him. The beauty and simplicity of this particular production of the Messiah has inspired my new attitude to simply "be" in Him, calm down, and share with my children the real reason for the season.
Kiddo and I set up her nativity set this morning and talked about each person as we put them on the table. Later, when she was playing with them - as she always does - she was talking to them and put them all in a "crowd" around Baby Jesus. She's really beginning to understand the whole concept of what Christmas is about. She was so excited to show Lia the tiny baby and that all the people were gathered to see Him.
And, yes, I finally get it - it's really the glimpses that start the HOPE and that gives this Christmas a whole new meaning for me.
So, to you and your family, my wish is that you'll experience the anticipation, hope, and joy of Christ this holiday season. Then we can sing "Hallelujah" together!

Christmas

2007-11-30T19:02:00.000-08:00

It's Christmas! I love Christmas - all kinds of fun and celebration. It seems a little extreme to me how typically evangelical sites keep reminding us how "Jesus is the Reason for the Season." (Insert sarcasm here.)I know, I know!
Yet, today I realized why it is that we aught to be reminded continuously why we celebrate this holiday.
I had to find a shepherd's crook for my Cradle Roll Sabbath School. As I searched the aisles of a couple of stores I was shocked. Seriously, have you really LOOKED at the Christmas aisles in the stores you frequent? Have you {seen} what's actually there in front of you? I saw tons of santas, trees, elves, snowmen, etc. What I didn't see a lot of was religious paraphernalia or decorations. A couple of crosses, a star or two, and [1] shelf with a few nativity sets on it.
I'm not sure how I didn't notice this before. It seems I was always so focused on the specific items I wanted or needed that I didn't really notice what was surrounding me. Perhaps it's gotten worse in recent years? I don't know why I noticed it today, but it really makes my heart sad.
In an effort to be true to myself and possibly a little evangelical - PLEASE focus on the real reason we celebrate this season, this year! Focus on Jesus - He is the reason for the season.

The Messiah

2007-11-29T22:01:00.000-08:00

Leilani dropped a CD and score in my office so I can prep for the children's choir vespers. They are doing The Messiah for young voices. I started listening and it really did put me in the mood for Christmas.
Then I went to the rehearsal for a few minutes. Oh, my word! Such sweet kids and such beautiful voices! The score is well-written and the narration is just right. It's going to be amazing on Saturday night when they perform and everything comes together.
I find myself oddly torn about whether the Messiah is Christmas music or Easter music. Certainly, I think it's appropriate for both, but somehow I always thought it belonged at Easter. After all that's when I first sang it.

Christmas

2007-11-28T20:24:00.000-08:00

I've been working on my annual Christmas baggies for the families at church. I'm really getting into the Christmas spirit. So, I've been thinking about traditions and what kinds of things I want my kids to learn during this time.
I've been reading some blogs for inspiration and prodding. One blogger suggested that you pick the top 5 things that you want to do this Christmas and let the rest go.
At Mommy Life, Barbara Curtis' website, I found this. It's a quote from Blest with Sons.
This really struck a chord with me -

"The beauty of tradition is the continuity it gives to life. Like chain-links, traditions connect generation to generation in warmth and familiarity. There are the traditions we share with almost everyone: Christmas trees, presents, the Carols, the Grinch. There are the traditions that are unique to our own families: little jokes, or favorite family stories, or certain must-cook recipes. . . . Perhaps my children will invent traditions of their own that we can embrace (or at least laugh about). . . .
The beauty of tradition is that it’s a chain, not of bondage, but of connection. . . . .

Sometimes we forget that, and become slaves to the chains we have made. How many people do you know who do things at Christmas that they don’t want to do, even say they hate to do, because “that’s the way it’s always been done”? If a tradition is making your Christmas less merry, I humbly suggest that it’s time for a change. . . . Our children should remember the magic of Christmas, not the melt-downs of Mommy. Peace on Earth and Good Will toward men start in the kitchen. The beauty of traditions is not only that they stay the same, but also that they can change."

So, over the past few years we've been trying to define our family traditions while being true to our FAMILY traditions. We're still working on it, but suffice it to say that we are trying to do some special things with just the four of us.

What are your top five traditions?

I'm Sad. . . or Mad.

2007-11-27T00:37:00.000-08:00

Kiddo's been working on rhyming words. It's quite funny actually. Out of the blue she'll say something like, "Hi, bye, that's a rhyme. Mommy, hi, bye, it's a rhyme isn't it, Mommy?" Either I'll agree and be rewarded with a repeat, or I'll be daydreaming and be rewarded with a repeat anyway. It's quite a treat really. :) Seriously, it's fun to hear her figure it out. Today, the conversation involved me talking to her about mad, sad, glad and it didn't rhyme. Or so she said. Hee hee. I think we still have some more work to do.
Anyhow, she is my ray of sunshine which only makes me more sad when I spend a major portion of the day either really sad or inexplicably mad. My poor kiddo has to deal with a mommy with baby blues and stress. I wish I could find a fix for this.
I'm grateful for so many things. Particularly my kids. I really don't have a reason for being mad or sad and yet I am. Futz nuggets!

A Good Day!

2007-11-25T16:13:00.000-08:00

So, Sabbath was a very busy day but incredibly gratifying. We had our second family Sabbath, but realistically it's the first REAL family Sabbath. It was a wonderful collaboration between all the pastors and came off really well and fun. Devo probably had the most to do of all of us and then he added some stuff on top of it. But every ounce was worth it. Now, that is not to say that the service was perfect, because it wasn't. What it was, was a very good idea of what a family friendly service might look like in our congregation. It was really cool. We had a family choir instead of a praise team. We divided the service into four major sections instead of having the traditional elements. The sections were based in Psalm 100 and the congregation was alerted to the change in sections by a power point slide with that verse on it on the screen. We had lots of songs that the kids would know or could learn easily. A special reading for the child dedications (we had 3) and panel discussion for about 10 minutes. Each of the pastors briefly explained how they thought we could give our kids every possible advantage followed by a short homily. Then we had everyone in the whole building bring forward a card with something they're thankful for. They brought it forward as an offering and stuck on a tree. It was so cool to watch the kids come forward with their cards. They were so excited to participate in another way. It was COOL. It was a very good day in my opinion!

I'm Sick

2007-11-23T23:49:00.000-08:00

I'm sick - I think it's strep, or at least it was. I got antibiotics for a very sore, puss-filled throat. But as is par for the coarse, I'm now dealing with stuffed up sinuses. Not my idea of a good time when I'm likely to be home with the kids for an extended period of time.
Enter - - - Lisa! My savior of the hour. I don't know when last I was so happy to see someone! Tomorrow is slated to be a busy day at church and I really needed to do some work on my own tonight, some more tomorrow, and someone to watch the kids during the service. Aunty Lisa was in Salt Lake to pick up her car and we weren't sure when she'd be headed back. Tonight when I got home, there she was! Thanks Lis, for coming back so soon!
I'm sick and feeling sorry for myself, but grateful for family today.

P.S. I'm so sick that for the first time in 5 years I skipped the annual Black Friday shopping trip. (I know, it's almost unbelievable.)Something does seem to be missing, but I'm sure I'll survive.

Thanksgiving

2007-11-22T21:05:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving we're at home. It's a different feeling, very low-key. I feel pretty useless but maybe that's because I'm sick. Baby Boy wants to eat every hour and a half. Oh well, we had a good day full of traditional things and even my hubby was able to join us. Of the many blessings I count this year, I must say that I am most grateful that my children are healthy and well and that my hubby has a job he loves!It is a much more pleasant home when the children are happy and the hubby is happy. Many good wishes to you and yours this Thanksgiving!

Check this out - - yes I'm cheating!

2007-11-19T21:50:00.000-08:00

Check this out. It's everything a mom would say to her kids in a 24 hour period condensed into a 2.5 minute rendition of the William Tell Overture.
I'm the Mom!

Enjoy this and here's your question - when did you realize for the first time that you really were turning into your parents? :)

Ha Ha

2007-11-18T21:49:00.000-08:00

So here I was celebrating that I'd made it almost halfway through the month and then promptly went on a 3 day break. Nuts! I suppose it's easy to say it's because I'm busy - it is true. But really that would just be a cop-out. The truth is far less interesting. You see hubby's been out of town of late and I've been falling asleep while trying to compose various entries, watching TV, or simply holding Baby Boy. It's been challenging to say the least. And incredibly frustrating.
It seems Baby Boy has been battling a cold and growing at the same time. He's been fussy for the week. The most fussy he's been in his life. This fact makes it much more bearable to patiently deal with his discomfort. However, it has been more tiring than I even realized.
So, my apologies for the hiatus and my many thanks for all the support and prayers. May you all have a blessing-filled Thanksgiving in these United States and elsewhere as God blesses all abundantly.

Halfway!

2007-11-14T21:51:00.000-08:00

Ok, it's almost halfway through the month and I have only really missed one post. I think this is so cool. Yes, addictive but definitely a pretty cool way of doing community. And, if I may say so myself, I'm pretty proud of myself to have made it this far into the month posting everyday.
Ok, enough glowing. Today, I have been back at work for two weeks and I'm finally feeling like I might be able deal with this business. It helps that I'm being serious about sticking to a schedule as much as possible. I also am grateful for my hubby who has done more than his fair share this week on top of early showtimes and long hours. He even tackled both kids by himself at the end of the day while I went shopping tonight. I am so glad I have a great husband and family and good friends.
Oh, and by the way, I'm decluttering my office so that I can rearrange it to accommodate my children more successfully. I probably should take some pictures. Hmmm. The office secretary even said that they wouldn't recognize my office if I keep it up.
So, keep blogging and commenting!

Baby Boy

2007-11-13T22:35:00.000-08:00

We went to playgroup today for the great annual thanksgiving meal together. The kids had a great time, the food was great, but the company was the best. I embarrassed myself again by calling one of my church members by the wrong name. So silly! Kiddo had a great time playing with all the friends and Baby Boy seemed to enjoy being in the middle of all the activity. Now, I'm really in the mood for the holidays.

Photos

2007-11-12T23:08:00.000-08:00

As you all know I was inspired by the photos Suzanne took in her home. Seriously, they were professional quality! So, today when we couldn't make it to our appointment I determined to try my hand at a home photo shoot. This is what we got.

I know, I know, the lighting is odd. I'll work on that next time :)

Heaven

2007-11-11T22:28:00.001-08:00

In our home we've been having plenty of discussions regarding heaven.
Pastor Dan likes to say that heaven will be like making love all the time. My friend looks at it another way:
"I think that heaven will be like nursing your baby in the middle of the night. That deep, quiet, contented connectedness. An intimacy, understanding, togetherness between you and the One from Whom you came, the one Who gave you life and then nourishes it."
I loved this description when I read it. To me it at absolutely put it perfectly. I like how it focused the feelings that can be so lonely into an opportunity to commune with your maker. It was wonderful and inspiring. It makes me want to really look at my concept of heaven some more. I'd like to find my language for describing heaven.
What is your concept of heaven? Can you describe it in a sentence or two?

Church

2007-11-10T22:40:00.000-08:00

We did church today. I had to host the main service. Kiddo, Baby Boy, and Hubby came to the minister's room before the service started and I fed Baby Boy. This is what life will look like from now on, I suppose.
Always before, I left before the rest of the family and then my hubby would bring Kiddo to Sabbath School. I would meet them there and we would go to the service together. Perhaps, if I had responsibilities in the service, I would go and take care of that before I joined them to listen to the sermon.
Now, it looks like the way it will work is that Kiddo and I will go to church together. I will take her to Sabbath School after we do the rounds together. Baby Boy and hubby will come when it is time for his Sabbath School class. Hubby will stay with Kiddo while I take Baby Boy for feeding and Sabbath School. I will then hand both kids over to hubby while I do whatever I must do during the service. Finally, I will get to join them, hopefully before the sermon.
After the service hubby will take the kids home while I finish up and we will eventually have lunch together.
It's bizarre, but I don't ever think I imagined my Sabbath would look like this. Several things have led us to this divide and conquer mentality. Most of all, I believe that we settled on this arrangement because I was tired of fighting each morning about being late, who was at fault, or about what took so long to leave. I do believe that part of the devil's plan is to make getting church unpleasant for us. If we can get through Sabbath without annihilating each other we actually have a real opportunity for receiving the blessing God has prepared for us.
So, rather than fight to travel in the same car or do everything together on a Sabbath day, I prefer to do what must be done to preserve the Sabbath for my family and give us all an opportunity for blessings. And amazingly we get the family time we need as a by-product.

Hormones

2007-11-09T22:36:00.000-08:00

I realized today that contrary to my opinion, pregnant women are HORMONAL. In the light of this realization I am acutely aware of what an amazing man my hubby is. Let's face it, I am probably not the easiest person to live at the best of times. During my pregnancy I know I was more than hormonal and my husband never gave me a hard time about my hormones.
Throughout the last few months, my hubby has been nothing but supportive and encouraging. He has taken care of me and our family in a stellar way. I am abundantly blessed! I could not ask for a more considerate and compassionate man. I thank God for such an amazing man.

We have green!

2007-11-08T23:01:00.000-08:00

This will be a short post as I'm typing it with one hand. Baby Boy got 3 shots today. He's asleep on my right arm and I WILL NOT move him. Poor boy has been so good despite much obvious pain.
Anyway, as for the title - after several months of just dirt in our front yard, we finally have green spikes! Tiny green spikes all over our front yard mean the grass is finally growing. SO exciting! I can't wait until it's full lawn.
Pictures to come - - -

Missed!

2007-11-08T12:06:00.000-08:00

Oh my, I missed yesterday. So, here's a quick post I hope you will enjoy. Check this link out and enter. If you're so inclined, tell them I sent you. Have a great day!
Christian Children's Book Review

What I want to be . . .

2007-11-06T20:54:00.000-08:00

Kiddo rode in a plane the other day. (I know, big surprise!) While she was chatting up the flight attendant, she clearly said, "When I grow up, I want to be a pilot like my daddy." The flight attendant thought that was amusing and felt compelled to share it with Hubby.
I don't know if she'll really be a pilot, but I know that she adores her daddy and that she's smart enough to do anything she puts her mind to.
Later, on the way home we were chatting about what she had said and her daddy told her, "you can be a pilot or anything that you want to be when you grow up, Kiddo." I don't think I've ever been so proud of my kiddo or her daddy.
We are tremendously blessed to have such great kids and I am blessed to have such a great, supportive hubby.

Supporting pics :)

Gifts

2007-11-05T20:36:00.001-08:00

A while ago, my friend posted on her site an entry about God's pleasure ("I Run"). I wrote a long post about what kind of things make me feel God's pleasure. It sounded so trite and full of 'self.' The question is, what makes you feel God's pleasure? For me, I feel God's pleasure when I care compassionately for others and when I preach His Word.
However, there are moments when I am unsure of what my purpose truly is. While I was in the Northwest, I saw someone who certainly did something that could elicit God's pleasure. Evidently, for some, the gift is clear. I believe this definitely true for my friend Suzanne. Check out these pics she took of Baby Boy, Kiddo, and I.

Suzanne, you are blessed with great kids and many wonderful gifts. Thank you for sharing this one with us. We felt our God's pleasure when took these great pictures.

Everyone else, here's your question for the day: "When I ______?? I feel God's pleasure." Now, you answer.

Almost missed it.

2007-11-04T23:15:00.000-08:00

Well, we had a busy day around here. So busy that I almost missed my post for the day! Aaack! We wouldn't want to do that, would we.
I love, love, love having a little boy. He's such a cutie pie I really enjoyed loving on him today. He helps put things in perspective. Even when I'm sad, he smiles and smiles at me. What a pleasure it is to spend time with him and see his sweet smile.
Ok, enough sappy-ness.
I've been dreaming about how I can change my house to be more homey and more valuable at the same time. The challenge is - lackamoola.
I suppose that is the same problem most people have, but I will make my list regardless.
1. Redo the bathrooms.
2. Build a room on the back.
3. Create a prayer garden.
4. Put in a water feature and built-in bbq.
5. Finish the cabinets in the kitchen.
6. Renovate the master bedroom.
7. Update the fireplace.
8. Install wood flooring in the lounge, dining room, and hallway.
9. Take out half walls in entry way.
10. Replace front doors.
11. Redo walkway and front entrance.

So, if you have any suggestions about how to make some extra money to be used for home improvements, send them our way. Here's a question for you? What's next on your wish list for your abode?

Sabbath @ Work

2007-11-03T19:56:00.000-07:00

Today was my first official day back at church. We had a great service and I absolutely do what I do because it is invigorating! I LOVE my job, at least doing my job on a Sabbath day when things go well.
I got the opportunity to mentor some leaders, brainstorm with others about their lessons, and strategize for decorating solutions.
I love being back at work in the thick of things even if I have to take unexpected breaks to nurse or rearrange my schedule to suit my kids. By God's grace I hope to figure out a workable schedule and then model it for my congregation. I know that He has been so good to us through the whole birth that He will problem-solve this as well.

NaBloPoMo

2007-11-02T10:52:00.000-07:00

November is National Blog Post Month for those who don't know. The point is to try and blog at least once a day. So, we shall attempt that. Last year I think I lasted all of 5 days. This year probably won't be much better, but we'll try. The month looks hectic already.
So, here's an update so that eventhough I'm a day late, I have two posts by November 2 :)

We all went to VA. Hubby left to go to work and the kids and I stayed. We got totally spoiled by the grandparents. Everything from much holding and cuddling (mostly for Baby Boy), to a tea party and playing cook all the time (Kiddo), to shopping, chatting, and sleeping in (The Mama). We had a wonderful time which we wished had lasted longer. We can't wait to go back!

Dad flew home with the kids and I so I didn't have to do it alone. (Yes, I know I'm a chicken.) I purchased a stroller in anticipation. I LOVE MY STROLLER! I believe my kids do too. Both kids can ride and with a little help from dad and Becky, I know the luggage can too. The trip is a breeze - - until we get to security, but that would difficult no matter what.
So, we came home, went to church and had lunch at Grammy's house. Took a field trip to see the Martin Mars (one of 2 or 3 still in existence) at Lake Elsinore because it's a cool airplane that can scoop water out of the lake to dump on the fire!
Sunday saw us shopping up a storm - just the girls and Baby Boy.
On Monday I was mourning the loss of my maternity leave and Hubby decided I make one last trip and keep a promise to a friend. After a couple of quick phone calls and hurriedly packing, the kids and I went to catch a flight to Portland, Oregon. We visited good friends and the kids had a great time playing with friends and hanging out in the play room.
Thanks for being such good sports, Suzanne and Josh!
I'll save the pics for tomorrow - that way I'll have a post already! Yay me and my sneaky self!

Back to Work

2007-11-02T10:47:00.000-07:00

I'm back to work. Yesterday was my first day back. I'm feeling a little ovewhelmed, but confident. If I can get used to getting my kids and myself out of the house and a handle our schedule, I will survive. With a little bit of convincing I can even anticipate a little bit of thriving in my future. It's nice to see people I've missed and to think about rejuvenating this ministry area. New Birth, evidently, has a whole different meaning for this Children's Pastor. :)

Tea Party!

2007-10-23T18:59:00.001-07:00

I love Cali!

2007-10-23T18:43:00.000-07:00

I love living in California. I really do. I love the sunshine. I love the beach. I love the mountains - real mountains! I love the desert. I love the no smoking rules. I love the addiction to drinking water and eating healthy food. I really love living in California.
Unhappy transplants say they miss the seasons in California. I don't miss them. I love the sunshine. And, it does get colder and hotter depending on the season. I can tell what season we're in.
But . . .
I must admit that this morning when I woke up, I like the scene I saw outside my window. The rolling hills covered in trees that are changing colors. They're beautiful! There were fallen leaves blowing across the driveway. "This is what FALL is all about," I thought to myself. I just enjoyed an overcast, color-filled, fall day.
I won't say I miss the changing seasons in California, but I will say I am enjoying this fall and the privilege of being in a place where the season is so obvious and beautiful.
It also reminds me that each season is created for a specific reason and is beautiful in it's own way. So are the seasons of our lives. Each life stage is created for a specific purpose and should be enjoyed for the beautiful part of our life it is. I pray that this will stay in the fore-front of my mind as I return to work. I will enjoy this new stage of my life!

Travelling

2007-10-21T11:22:00.000-07:00

We left CA on Wednesday night. The plan was to catch a direct flight to Orlando, see Grandma Craig, who's not doing too well, and then go on to Grandma and Grandpa's. Kiddo and Baby Boy would sleep all the way, we planned. Well, as is wont to happen when you fly standby, we didn't get on the flight we planned, we ended up in Jacksonville, FL and had to drive to Orlando. The kids didn't sleep the whole way. It was a VERY long day!
We got there safely, slept, talked, swam, and ate. When all was said and done, we left for the airport and Grandpa and Grandma's house. We had a great time in Florida although it was short, it was very sweet. We got to see pictures of Grandma Craig's mom and dad and her in-laws.
So, now we're at Grandma and Grandpa's and kiddo thinks this is her very own heaven. Tea parties, cooking, games, all kinds of fun with so many people to play with.
I'll tell you what though, travelling with two small children, only carry-on luggage, and trying to get through TSA security in a timely manner is certainly not for the faint of heart! It was much, much easier to get through security in FL with Hubby in uniform.
We're on a travelling expedition and we're having fun.

My Child

2007-10-17T01:38:00.000-07:00

Today Kiddo said, "Mommy, why has our world changed like this. I don't like these no blue skies." It took me a few minutes and a couple of questions to figure out that she was referring to the overcast skies we have experienced over the last few days.
She wanted to know why we hadn't seen the clear blue sky or the sun lately.
Yes! She most definitely is her mama's daughter!
Hubby, of course, said I must have brain-washed her.
I swear I haven't, but I can't say I wouldn't have if I thought it would make a difference.
Hubby promptly offered to take Kiddo up for a plane ride because you could see the blue sky up above the clouds.
Lucky duck!

Wow!

2007-10-16T00:31:00.000-07:00

Good friends threw us a shower at church on Sabbath afternoon. It was amazing! The words Leilani shared were so touching, and Stuart's prayer was so heartfelt and special. Thank you, all.
We felt incredibly spoiled with all the gifts, lovely desserts, and fun fellowship. I honestly couldn't tell you how many people were there, but it was alot. Then, I spoke with a friend who couldn't make it and she said she had heard that there were 60 people there. Wow!
Baby Boy got some great gifts - beautiful clothes, fun toys, and very, very, useful stuff. We are so blessed - not just because we got lots of "stuff" but because we have such nice friends who love and care about our Baby Boy and took time to share themselves with us at this special time. Thank you so much, my friends, for the gifts of your time and yourselves.

Heaven

2007-10-12T01:20:00.000-07:00

Pictures Galore

2007-10-11T20:53:00.000-07:00

Check out these pics.
Kiddo in nature on a Sabbath. This is what life at it's best.
Kiddo's most favorite person - go figure :)
Kiddo and her favorite people.
September 15, 2007 Baby Boy's first Sabbath at church!
Our new baby boy

Sweet, sweet, babies!

2007-10-08T01:29:00.000-07:00

We had a lazy day around here today. It was good for the whole family, but especially for me as I got to really enjoy the baby boy sleeping well and precious kiddo. Playing, cooking, loving together as a family. That's what Sundays are all about. Next time - photos.

It's the little things

2007-09-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

Kiddo came and said, "I always just want to be with you, Mama."
This was followed by what I swear was a real smile from Baby Boy when I smiled at him. If it's in response to a smile, he can't possibly have had gas, right?
Truly, it's the little moments that matter in our lives right now. The little things that the kids do remind me that even the small things are important to God. That's why He made us the way He did. Tiny little muscles that produce a smile 0 something I've been dying to see since Baby Boy came into this world.

By Popular Demand.

2007-09-13T22:53:00.000-07:00

Please excuse my oversight of this baby boy's vitals.
Born: September 4, 2007 @ 11:54am
Weight: 7lb 14oz
Length: 19 1/4 inches

Thank you for all your prayers and kind wishes. We are enjoying our little man bunches and bunches.

Blessings!

2007-09-12T23:18:00.000-07:00

My Oupa and Granny have been spending the day with us to help out around the house and with the kids. I suppose it's also so that they're not stuck at home bored. A relatively common topic has been my Grandfather's comments on the people who stop by each day. Honestly, he merely verbalizes what we all think - "Those are such nice people," or "your church members are very generous people."
He's absolutely right! The people that God has placed us in proximity to are incredibly generous and kind. The meals have been a God-sent blessing. The love, support, and prayers are so strengthening. And, the gifts for Daniel are simply overwhelming.
I know this for sure - we are tremendously blessed! We have a great group of friends who are compassionate and caring and I wouldn't want to do this birth/parenting thing without them. I know I am sappy right now, but the truth is, I am so thankful for the people God has put in our circle to love and support our little family.

Great Day!

2007-09-10T23:14:00.001-07:00

September 4 at 11:54am our precious baby was born. Welcome to the world, baby boy! Here's what we have for now. More to come.

Picture . . . Finally :)

2007-08-23T23:21:00.000-07:00

Sweet Child

2007-08-16T01:03:00.000-07:00

Kiddo went to Disneyland today. After my doctor specifically told me to avoid "The Happiest Place On Earth" until this baby makes his debut, I decided I probably shouldn't go. So, off she went with some friends from New Zealand and Lisa. I knew they were going to stay for the fireworks, but at about 11pm I started wondering where they were.
Kiddo came in on Lisa's shoulder totally asleep. I asked her as we put her to bed if she had fun and if she saw any princesses. Yes, she nodded.
I can't wait for her to wake up so that she can tell us all about her exciting day. She was so ready to go that she was up and dressed before anyone else in the house this morning, just to make sure they couldn't leave without her. She had her bag packed and was ready to get in the car anytime anyone opened the front door. My goodness!
Evidently, she even went on "Space Mountain." Wait 'til I get to scrap those pics!