Thursday, December 18, 2008
Nocturnal thoughts - ish.
Do you think it is odd that it is 1:24 in the morning and here I sit? Do you also think it is odd my precious daughter has been waking up every night since she was 7 months old to nurse in the night - and she is now sleeping through the night - yet I am still awake? For the past week she has slept soundly through the night and I have been up at some point every single night. Lovely. Tonight I have wrapped 10 Christmas gifts. I would have continued wrapping, but my work was getting sloppy (possibly because I'm exhausted?!) yet here I sit. I just can't make myself go to sleep. At which point shall I consider myself nocturnal?
Sigh.
I just read the most beautiful post from MckMama about marriage. I wholeheartedly agreed with everything she said. Just in case you don't know, I absolutely love and adore my husband. Our marriage is in no way perfect, but through Him, we are being made perfect.
What a process.
For any gal, I would so highly recommend Created to be His Helpmeet by Debi Pearl. Love it.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Not Me Monday
Ok... this is a little game I like to play on Mondays. Except I don't really play - I just read everyone elses Not Me Monday. What is it? Being brutally honest and living to tell about it! You can check MckMama out if you want to - the amazing sista' who thought it up
I did not just give my daughter a cut up waffle with butter and syrup to eat in the living room while I type this blog. I would never do that - what a mess it
My dear husband did not catch our daughter with a certain item from the bathroom trash can. We also did not find that her sleeves were wet from playing in the toilet. No way, jose. We most definitely keep better tabs on our children so they do not do such things.
I did not just mop my kitchen floor for the first time in a month. Nope. Not me.
I did not overhear the following conversation in Sunday School yesterday:
(a pregnant gal) it seems like I've been pregnant forever... only 3 months to go...
(another gal) no girl it seems like it's gone so quick...
(pregnant gal) oh not for me... it's gone so slow
and then I did not chime in:
oh, the quick part was the first part!
I would never say such a thing. Not in Sunday School, either. Nope, not me.
Confession is good for the soul, my friends. Great therapy...
Friday, December 12, 2008
Fun...
A friend of mine posted this... I thought it would be a nice change of pace :)
A fun husband game...
1. Where did you meet?
At UNA. I was apparent going for the Mrs. degree.
2. How long did you date?
Not long :) We started "talking" in August, made it "exclusive" in October, engaged in February, married in July.
3. How long have you been married?
almost 4.5 years.
4. What does he say that surprises you?
Seemingly random compliments.
5. What is your favorite feature of his?
His eyes... I come from all browns, so it's a nice break to stare into his baby blues.
6. What is your favorite quality of his?
He loves me no matter what! What more could I ask for?
7. Does he have a nickname for you? Sometimes I'll get a "Shell" outta' him.
8. What is his favorite color? Brown.
9. What is his favorite food? Pizza. Hands down!
10. What is his favorite sport?
To play, golf.
11. When and where did you first kiss?
On May 22, 2004 @ my house in Florence.
12. What is your favorite thing to do as a couple?
Watch movies.
13. Do you have any children?
Obviously :) 2 gifts from heaven.
14. Does he have a hidden talent?
He can sing and play guitar beautifully - but rarely does outside of our home.
15. How old is he? 26
16. Who said "I love you" first?
He did - on the dock at Joe Wheeler (where he proposed months later) after we read the Christmas story together.
17. What is his favorite type of music?
Dude loves everything!
18. What do you admire most about him?
His patience with me :)
19. Do you think he will read this?
I'm doubting it ;)
A fun husband game...
1. Where did you meet?
At UNA. I was apparent going for the Mrs. degree.
2. How long did you date?
Not long :) We started "talking" in August, made it "exclusive" in October, engaged in February, married in July.
3. How long have you been married?
almost 4.5 years.
4. What does he say that surprises you?
Seemingly random compliments.
5. What is your favorite feature of his?
His eyes... I come from all browns, so it's a nice break to stare into his baby blues.
6. What is your favorite quality of his?
He loves me no matter what! What more could I ask for?
7. Does he have a nickname for you? Sometimes I'll get a "Shell" outta' him.
8. What is his favorite color? Brown.
9. What is his favorite food? Pizza. Hands down!
10. What is his favorite sport?
To play, golf.
11. When and where did you first kiss?
On May 22, 2004 @ my house in Florence.
12. What is your favorite thing to do as a couple?
Watch movies.
13. Do you have any children?
Obviously :) 2 gifts from heaven.
14. Does he have a hidden talent?
He can sing and play guitar beautifully - but rarely does outside of our home.
15. How old is he? 26
16. Who said "I love you" first?
He did - on the dock at Joe Wheeler (where he proposed months later) after we read the Christmas story together.
17. What is his favorite type of music?
Dude loves everything!
18. What do you admire most about him?
His patience with me :)
19. Do you think he will read this?
I'm doubting it ;)
Monday, December 8, 2008
A little bit of this... and that.
A little bit of this: I finished reading The Shack this weekend. I absolutely loved it. It's a wonderful story of God's love through one of his servants. Some people told me repeatedly "You have to remind yourself it's just fiction, you have to remind yourself it's just fiction" and guess what - I in fact did not have to remind myself that it was just fiction. That part came easily. What was harder for me to deal with were the feelings it provoked in me (as I said in my last post).
Back in 2005, we went on our second mission trip to Portland, Oregon. There were some soldiers on that last plane ride with us, and as we were walking to baggage claim the soldiers were right in front of us. As we rounded the corner to the security gate, their families awaited - cheering, crying, celebrating their return. Then, as if on cue, one of the soldiers began running to his father, and his rather to him.
As our group passed this exchange of love, we all fell to our knees, weeping. I'm not talking about a tear here or there but from a deep place in our heart tears were flowing.
Where am I going with this? God used that moment in my life. He has used many things that seemed unconventional (to me) to draw me to a closer place with Him. Although The Shack is most certainly a work of fiction, I applaud the author's work - for provoking people to draw closer to the Lord.
A little bit of that...
We had a great discussion yesterday in Sunday School about the Christmas season. Isn't it amazing how children ask questions that you don't feel qualified to answer? Maybe it's just me. I'm praying for creativity and honesty as my T-Pup begins to search out the truth. I don't want to blow off his questions or give him some flippant answer. This is what our lives are about! Celebrating our King! I'm praying the Lord will help me to instill these foundational truths in our son (+daughter when the time comes!).
W's first semester of grad school is coming to a close. His finals are this week. Please pray for him if you think about it!
Also, I amabsolutely looking forward to dreading Christmas shopping. I am going tomorrow while W is in one of his finals, so I'll have a good few hours to traipse around Nashville and shop. I'm trying to be excited... trying... trying...
Back in 2005, we went on our second mission trip to Portland, Oregon. There were some soldiers on that last plane ride with us, and as we were walking to baggage claim the soldiers were right in front of us. As we rounded the corner to the security gate, their families awaited - cheering, crying, celebrating their return. Then, as if on cue, one of the soldiers began running to his father, and his rather to him.
As our group passed this exchange of love, we all fell to our knees, weeping. I'm not talking about a tear here or there but from a deep place in our heart tears were flowing.
Where am I going with this? God used that moment in my life. He has used many things that seemed unconventional (to me) to draw me to a closer place with Him. Although The Shack is most certainly a work of fiction, I applaud the author's work - for provoking people to draw closer to the Lord.
A little bit of that...
We had a great discussion yesterday in Sunday School about the Christmas season. Isn't it amazing how children ask questions that you don't feel qualified to answer? Maybe it's just me. I'm praying for creativity and honesty as my T-Pup begins to search out the truth. I don't want to blow off his questions or give him some flippant answer. This is what our lives are about! Celebrating our King! I'm praying the Lord will help me to instill these foundational truths in our son (+daughter when the time comes!).
W's first semester of grad school is coming to a close. His finals are this week. Please pray for him if you think about it!
Also, I am
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
The Shack
Oh my goodness. Never have I read a book like this before. I know it's fiction, but it has struck a place that is deep in my heart. A few weeks ago I wrote about fear. To be absolutely honest, reading this book is making me face my fears. I stayed up last night after my family went to sleep, and in the quiet I read and wept - for hours. I'm supposed to stay on a schedule to read it, but there is no way - I can't put it down. I know people who have read it and said "it's strictly fiction, nothing can be gained from it" but in my case I have to disagree - because it has provoked me to go to a deeper place with the Lord. Obviously Young's words are not the infallible word of God, but it's when I put the book down and started crying out to the Lord that took me to that place.
And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Hebrews 10:24
Friday, November 21, 2008
Thursday, November 20, 2008
fear.
Last night we were driving to church and T-Pup and I were conversing. He said something along the lines of "Buster said..." and I said "but I didn't know Buster could talk!" (Buster is Ws grandmother's dog). My dear cutie of a son then said "Yep, he speaks doggy-spanish!". It still cracks me up!
What are your weaknesses? I could give you a summed up list of mine, but the one I am dealing with the most lately is fear. It is absolutely ridiculous. I am such a scaredy cat! Honestly, I am waking up each night somewhere between the hours of 2-4am terrified. My heart is usually pounding so loud that I think someone is walking through our house. Then I think "wait... is it my heart, or is someone walking through my house?". I do this every night... at least every night since August. It's so annoying. I've prayed and prayed that God would give me peace. I know that perfect love cast out fear. I know these things.
Last night (this morning) I got up at 4. I went to the couch and started praying. I went to the scriptures in 1 Samuel where David is fleeing from Saul, here to there. I ended up reading the story of Abigail and Nabal, which is one of my favorites... Abigail, oh to be like her... but this is why I share all of this. I've decided if I'm going to be fearful (which I'm not really comfy settling with that fact!) this is what I will do every night. Instead of settling for turning the television on, I'm going to dive into the Word. It was a precious moment with the Lord. My house was still and quiet (even my heart at this point!). I went back to sleep around 4:30 (and W was up within 5 minutes of that, ha) but the sleep I experienced from 4:30-7 was so sweet and peaceful. I was so grateful for my time with the Lord and as a mom of two small children, so thankful for a bit more rest to help get me through the day.
Also, a sweet friend of mine and I are now doing the 7x7 prayers from Bring the Rain. Yesterday was our first day, and I'm so excited to see what God does in my children's lives as well as my own. Another weakness of mine is praying for myself...too much! What better way to break out of my little box than praying for my children all throughout the day. (I've always prayed for my children, but it's been here or there, when I thought about it, etc.) The 7x7s are during different things we do in the day. I encourage you to check them out. And if you've never read Angie's story at Bring the Rain, you are in for a blessing.
What are your weaknesses? I could give you a summed up list of mine, but the one I am dealing with the most lately is fear. It is absolutely ridiculous. I am such a scaredy cat! Honestly, I am waking up each night somewhere between the hours of 2-4am terrified. My heart is usually pounding so loud that I think someone is walking through our house. Then I think "wait... is it my heart, or is someone walking through my house?". I do this every night... at least every night since August. It's so annoying. I've prayed and prayed that God would give me peace. I know that perfect love cast out fear. I know these things.
Last night (this morning) I got up at 4. I went to the couch and started praying. I went to the scriptures in 1 Samuel where David is fleeing from Saul, here to there. I ended up reading the story of Abigail and Nabal, which is one of my favorites... Abigail, oh to be like her... but this is why I share all of this. I've decided if I'm going to be fearful (which I'm not really comfy settling with that fact!) this is what I will do every night. Instead of settling for turning the television on, I'm going to dive into the Word. It was a precious moment with the Lord. My house was still and quiet (even my heart at this point!). I went back to sleep around 4:30 (and W was up within 5 minutes of that, ha) but the sleep I experienced from 4:30-7 was so sweet and peaceful. I was so grateful for my time with the Lord and as a mom of two small children, so thankful for a bit more rest to help get me through the day.
Also, a sweet friend of mine and I are now doing the 7x7 prayers from Bring the Rain. Yesterday was our first day, and I'm so excited to see what God does in my children's lives as well as my own. Another weakness of mine is praying for myself...too much! What better way to break out of my little box than praying for my children all throughout the day. (I've always prayed for my children, but it's been here or there, when I thought about it, etc.) The 7x7s are during different things we do in the day. I encourage you to check them out. And if you've never read Angie's story at Bring the Rain, you are in for a blessing.
Monday, November 3, 2008
giving in...
My dear friend Malerie tagged me to do this...
6 random things about me...
(1) I really want a big SUV... like an Expedition or Tahoe. They are huge, with plenty of room... without being a mini-van. I just can't picture myself in a mini-van... not that I wouldn't be grateful if someone handed me the keys to a new one - I just prefer the big gas guzzlers. Which is probably the reason my husband will never let me get one.
(2) Since our married life began (almost 5 years ago!) we've never had an ice maker in our freezer. We fill our ice trays and harvest our ice. A gal can dream, right?! :)
(3) I'm terrified of swimming in bodies of water with fish. Poor Malerie can tell you too many stories about this.
(4) I didn't like onion rings, potato salad, chicken salad or stuffed eggs until I was 20 years old. And it all happened in the same year!
(5) Christmas is my favorite time of the year. I love the smells, the family time, the excitement as we learn about Jesus' birth again. It's so much fun with toddlers, too!
(6) My husband and I can finish each others sentences. He's my best friend!
***
I can't tag 6 people because I pretty much only blog stalk :)
6 random things about me...
(1) I really want a big SUV... like an Expedition or Tahoe. They are huge, with plenty of room... without being a mini-van. I just can't picture myself in a mini-van... not that I wouldn't be grateful if someone handed me the keys to a new one - I just prefer the big gas guzzlers. Which is probably the reason my husband will never let me get one.
(2) Since our married life began (almost 5 years ago!) we've never had an ice maker in our freezer. We fill our ice trays and harvest our ice. A gal can dream, right?! :)
(3) I'm terrified of swimming in bodies of water with fish. Poor Malerie can tell you too many stories about this.
(4) I didn't like onion rings, potato salad, chicken salad or stuffed eggs until I was 20 years old. And it all happened in the same year!
(5) Christmas is my favorite time of the year. I love the smells, the family time, the excitement as we learn about Jesus' birth again. It's so much fun with toddlers, too!
(6) My husband and I can finish each others sentences. He's my best friend!
***
I can't tag 6 people because I pretty much only blog stalk :)
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Humor
I really don't know about you, but I find humor in the smallest things. I've come to realize that my humor is dry - and often times not funny to anyone else at all. If I find it funny though, does it really matter if someone else is laughing? I'm used to being the odd one out - so no big news there.
Anyway, there is a small story to my ramblings. Last night was the Colts and Titans game. Seriously around this state, that is equivalent to the words Super Bowl. You know Tennessee loves Peyton, and you know we love the Titans... so put two and two together = big deal. W said he wanted us to have some 'football food' and watch the game. He specifically requested rotel cheese dip, so I decided to also pick up a pizza (for the kids). All of this to say, when we were waiting at Little Ceasar's (I know it's the "cheap" pizza - but I love their cheese!) a big 'ole pimped out blazer pulls up next to us with their bass thumpin'... loud. Incredibly loud... annoyingly loud... point made? Anyway, T-Pup says "Mommy! What is that?!" and I reply "it's the car's music... it's really loud..." and before I could finish he says "But Mommy! It sounds like a monster at pizza hut playing the tuba!"
If you just read that and barely smirked, made the little "hm!" sound, or less... you are one of the many who don't understand my humor -- because I laughed for what seemed like minutes.
Anyway, there is a small story to my ramblings. Last night was the Colts and Titans game. Seriously around this state, that is equivalent to the words Super Bowl. You know Tennessee loves Peyton, and you know we love the Titans... so put two and two together = big deal. W said he wanted us to have some 'football food' and watch the game. He specifically requested rotel cheese dip, so I decided to also pick up a pizza (for the kids). All of this to say, when we were waiting at Little Ceasar's (I know it's the "cheap" pizza - but I love their cheese!) a big 'ole pimped out blazer pulls up next to us with their bass thumpin'... loud. Incredibly loud... annoyingly loud... point made? Anyway, T-Pup says "Mommy! What is that?!" and I reply "it's the car's music... it's really loud..." and before I could finish he says "But Mommy! It sounds like a monster at pizza hut playing the tuba!"
If you just read that and barely smirked, made the little "hm!" sound, or less... you are one of the many who don't understand my humor -- because I laughed for what seemed like minutes.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Poop.
T-Pup has been studying Abraham for the past few weeks in Sunday School. The first story was the one of he, Sarai, and Lot moving to Canaan. This past week was about Issac's birth. I absolutely love the curriculum they use - it is perfect for 3 year olds. Anyway, the scripture both weeks has been Genesis 12:2 - "I will bless you". He had this down pat the first time we practiced it. I got to thinking this weekend - this child can sing the theme song to Higglytown Heroes and Handy Manny - he can handle the full version of the scripture. So, this morning I started working with him on it. This is the full scripture:
For whatever reason, all I could get out of my son for the first 10 minutes was the following...
It really was funny at first - but then I tried to encourage more respect for God's word. Then I just got frustrated with his continued sillyness - just for the sake of being silly. I eventually told him he couldn't get off the couch until he said it, so 10 minutes later we conquered it. Little boys will be little boys!
I am so so so proud and grateful to say that my brother is home, safe and sound. Our trip was wonderful (short - but very full) and I'm so incredibly thankful I was able to go. Thanks to the ones of you who prayed for him while he was in Iraq. It looks like he will be on a MEU float (marine expeditionary unit / naval ship) outside of Afghanistan this summer.
I will make you a great nation; I will bless you and
make your name great; and you shall be a blessing.
For whatever reason, all I could get out of my son for the first 10 minutes was the following...
I will make you a great poop.
It really was funny at first - but then I tried to encourage more respect for God's word. Then I just got frustrated with his continued sillyness - just for the sake of being silly. I eventually told him he couldn't get off the couch until he said it, so 10 minutes later we conquered it. Little boys will be little boys!
I am so so so proud and grateful to say that my brother is home, safe and sound. Our trip was wonderful (short - but very full) and I'm so incredibly thankful I was able to go. Thanks to the ones of you who prayed for him while he was in Iraq. It looks like he will be on a MEU float (marine expeditionary unit / naval ship) outside of Afghanistan this summer.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Much Excitement
I cannot express my excitement in words - my little brother is coming home from Iraq next week. I am excited to be able to fly to NC to greet him when he returns. I'm a little nervous about traveling with Sam, but I plan to pack some exciting new snacks and toys to help her enjoy the ride a bit more. T-Pup is all squared away here with close friends and family - but he and W's presence will definitely be missed.
My sweet Sam is approaching 1 year old. Wow! Where has the past year gone? We had our annual youth fish fry last night at church, and I made the comment to one of the women there "it was this time last year we were gawking over how swollen my feet were!" I will plan her party as soon as we get back - but for now my attentions are on the trip next week.
T-Pup and I have been talking about Abraham each day this week. He has memorized "I will bless you Genesis 12:2". I need to be more efficient on teaching him scripture! It does bless me to hear him recite it with such pride though.
Sam is at the beginning stages of walking. W will hold her hands and walk with her across the floor; when I try, she just plops down. I don't mind leaving some things to Daddy - and I don't think he minds either :)
I think that's about it for my little update. I am also excited to have an evening with my hubby tonight. It has been a while since we've been out alone, so I'm sure we'll have a great time.
My sweet Sam is approaching 1 year old. Wow! Where has the past year gone? We had our annual youth fish fry last night at church, and I made the comment to one of the women there "it was this time last year we were gawking over how swollen my feet were!" I will plan her party as soon as we get back - but for now my attentions are on the trip next week.
T-Pup and I have been talking about Abraham each day this week. He has memorized "I will bless you Genesis 12:2". I need to be more efficient on teaching him scripture! It does bless me to hear him recite it with such pride though.
Sam is at the beginning stages of walking. W will hold her hands and walk with her across the floor; when I try, she just plops down. I don't mind leaving some things to Daddy - and I don't think he minds either :)
I think that's about it for my little update. I am also excited to have an evening with my hubby tonight. It has been a while since we've been out alone, so I'm sure we'll have a great time.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Be still
Words cannot express how tired I am! Last week we had an extremely crazy week... so incredibly busy. By Friday my throat started hurting, and by Saturday I was swallowing handfulls of VitC. Fortunately I never really came down sick, but unfortunately I've still been fighting the common cold symptoms. Prasie God my children have only had a runny nose and nothing more. On the weeks when it seems like we go and go and go, I don't know how to slow us down. There wasn't much I could have done last week with out of town company, but I get tired of the busy-ness quickly. I'm thinking "Be still and know that I am God" and saying "I'm trying, I'm trying!" at the same time.
Yesterday the children and I rode up to Nashville with W. I've been needing to go shopping for a while now - and I seriously could not figure out when it was going to happen. I knew it was a crazy idea to shop for myself with both kids while he was in class, but like I said... it needed to happen and this was the only way I could think of. Sadly enough, it was more awful that I could have imagined. In one store I decided to put T-Pup in charge of feeding Sam some cheerios. You're thinking "no, she didn't..." and oh yes my friends, I did. I spent about 7 minutes retracing our steps picking up the Hansel and Gretel trail of cereal my children left behind - and feeling the crunch of it every other step. By the time they started screaming, I knew I should have just left - but honestly, I just wanted to get the shopping over with so I would not have to think about it anymore. I wish it were easier to spend money on myself... but that's another story for another day.
I say all of this to say this: there was a moment when they were both crying in a dressing room, and I wanted to cry myself. I had the thought "At this moment I resent motherhood!" I felt so bad after that thought... so selfish and ashamed. But I thought it nonetheless.
Be still and know that I am God. I'm trying... and He knows I'm trying. As much as I wanted to do something small for myself like buying some new clothes, I think it would have been better to have left the clothes, gone to the car, turned the AC on, nursed Sam, gave T-Pup some snacks, and taken a deep breath... but I chose the other.
Today is a new day though...
Yesterday the children and I rode up to Nashville with W. I've been needing to go shopping for a while now - and I seriously could not figure out when it was going to happen. I knew it was a crazy idea to shop for myself with both kids while he was in class, but like I said... it needed to happen and this was the only way I could think of. Sadly enough, it was more awful that I could have imagined. In one store I decided to put T-Pup in charge of feeding Sam some cheerios. You're thinking "no, she didn't..." and oh yes my friends, I did. I spent about 7 minutes retracing our steps picking up the Hansel and Gretel trail of cereal my children left behind - and feeling the crunch of it every other step. By the time they started screaming, I knew I should have just left - but honestly, I just wanted to get the shopping over with so I would not have to think about it anymore. I wish it were easier to spend money on myself... but that's another story for another day.
I say all of this to say this: there was a moment when they were both crying in a dressing room, and I wanted to cry myself. I had the thought "At this moment I resent motherhood!" I felt so bad after that thought... so selfish and ashamed. But I thought it nonetheless.
Be still and know that I am God. I'm trying... and He knows I'm trying. As much as I wanted to do something small for myself like buying some new clothes, I think it would have been better to have left the clothes, gone to the car, turned the AC on, nursed Sam, gave T-Pup some snacks, and taken a deep breath... but I chose the other.
Today is a new day though...
Monday, September 22, 2008
I'm fired...
No seemingly 'eloquent' thoughts today. Just a story from last night...
I told T-Pup to pick up a toy. He replied "No, you don't tell me what to do" (he did not yell or say it ugly, just matter-of-factly). I then calmly replied "Momma told you to pick up the toy. You do what Momma says because I am the Momma". He then popped a bit of an attitude, and I told him to go sit in the corner until his heart was right. As he marched over, he said "But I just don't want you to be my Momma anymore, I just want Daddy to be my Daddy."
I know as a child I said this phrase several times, as a teenager I said it a lot more, and that I would someday experience it as a parent.
Hmm. Guess the day has come and gone.
I told T-Pup to pick up a toy. He replied "No, you don't tell me what to do" (he did not yell or say it ugly, just matter-of-factly). I then calmly replied "Momma told you to pick up the toy. You do what Momma says because I am the Momma". He then popped a bit of an attitude, and I told him to go sit in the corner until his heart was right. As he marched over, he said "But I just don't want you to be my Momma anymore, I just want Daddy to be my Daddy."
I know as a child I said this phrase several times, as a teenager I said it a lot more, and that I would someday experience it as a parent.
Hmm. Guess the day has come and gone.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
A Long Day
Yesterday just seemed to be one of those days. Don't hear me wrong, I'm not complaining - if anything I am overcome with joy that my daughter is healthy.
We had scheduled T-Pup's 3yr well check up, and the measuring of Sam's head in the same appointment. We noticed in April that her head was big, so they've been measuring it every two months since then. Also, she had an ultrasound in April to make sure there was no excess fluid buildup on her brain. At any rate, our appointment was at 10 am. T-Pup's checkup was great, although he did not perform perfectly on his eye exam. Sam's head was around 42mm in July, and yesterday it measured 49.5. It was a considerable jump. The doctor called a neurologist friend of his to see what she would recommend, and we spent a few hours waiting for her to call back. My poor kids were going stir crazy in that office... as was I. She eventually calls back around noon, and says to do a cat scan. I immediately start freaking out in my mind (and the tears are beginning to flow). I'm thinking the worst of worst possibilities. I then remembered something our pastor said while teaching on Revelation, about having a disciplined imagination. That helped. We go to the hospital (the admitting process was so simple, Praise God) and soon after I was laying her on the cat scan table. The nurses were amazing with T-Pup, giving him stickers and letting him watch from the control room. As the scan was beginning and I was holding her head, the flood gates of Heaven opened via my eyes. No parent ever wants to see their child going into one of those machines. Sam stopped crying as it started spinning like she was thinking "whoa, what's this?" and within seconds it was over.
The doc came back to the hospital to see us (this is why we drive an hour to him. He is by far one of our most favorite people in the world) and he went to talk to the pediatric radiologist. No cranial pressure, all of her ventricles are normal sized, something about something protruding. I looked at him and said "break it down, please" (definitely not referring to any possible dance moves) and he said "Michelle, she just has a big head. It's growing faster than her body, and her body will catch up. As long as she is on track developmentally, we're in good shape."
I should have fallen on my knees in praise at that moment, but for whatever reason I could only cry harder. Relief, I suppose? I walked the children to the car and took a few minutes for myself. It was after 2, and we hadn't had lunch, so we hit up Chick-Fil-A. T-Pup ate 8 nuggets, a fruit cup (minus the oranges... like you needed to know) and Sam ate a whole two nuggets and a few fries. It had been a long day and we had hungry bellies.
You know, this summer has impacted my walk with the Lord in a huge way. I feel like our relationship is being completely redefined. I said yesterday in the waiting room "God, I don't even feel like I know who you are anymore...." and when I said it, it literally shook me (worry not, we were the only ones in the waiting room). But I can tell you this: He is faithful. I walked through yesterday with two small children, my husband was 3 hours away, and for all practical reasons I should have felt absolutely vulnerable and terrified. This is how I know He was with me. His rod and His staff, they comfort me. Yeah I was emotional and I know I got some definite looks from people, but who cares. My daughter is healthy and I have a feeling even if she wasn't, He would still be faithful.
We had scheduled T-Pup's 3yr well check up, and the measuring of Sam's head in the same appointment. We noticed in April that her head was big, so they've been measuring it every two months since then. Also, she had an ultrasound in April to make sure there was no excess fluid buildup on her brain. At any rate, our appointment was at 10 am. T-Pup's checkup was great, although he did not perform perfectly on his eye exam. Sam's head was around 42mm in July, and yesterday it measured 49.5. It was a considerable jump. The doctor called a neurologist friend of his to see what she would recommend, and we spent a few hours waiting for her to call back. My poor kids were going stir crazy in that office... as was I. She eventually calls back around noon, and says to do a cat scan. I immediately start freaking out in my mind (and the tears are beginning to flow). I'm thinking the worst of worst possibilities. I then remembered something our pastor said while teaching on Revelation, about having a disciplined imagination. That helped. We go to the hospital (the admitting process was so simple, Praise God) and soon after I was laying her on the cat scan table. The nurses were amazing with T-Pup, giving him stickers and letting him watch from the control room. As the scan was beginning and I was holding her head, the flood gates of Heaven opened via my eyes. No parent ever wants to see their child going into one of those machines. Sam stopped crying as it started spinning like she was thinking "whoa, what's this?" and within seconds it was over.
The doc came back to the hospital to see us (this is why we drive an hour to him. He is by far one of our most favorite people in the world) and he went to talk to the pediatric radiologist. No cranial pressure, all of her ventricles are normal sized, something about something protruding. I looked at him and said "break it down, please" (definitely not referring to any possible dance moves) and he said "Michelle, she just has a big head. It's growing faster than her body, and her body will catch up. As long as she is on track developmentally, we're in good shape."
I should have fallen on my knees in praise at that moment, but for whatever reason I could only cry harder. Relief, I suppose? I walked the children to the car and took a few minutes for myself. It was after 2, and we hadn't had lunch, so we hit up Chick-Fil-A. T-Pup ate 8 nuggets, a fruit cup (minus the oranges... like you needed to know) and Sam ate a whole two nuggets and a few fries. It had been a long day and we had hungry bellies.
You know, this summer has impacted my walk with the Lord in a huge way. I feel like our relationship is being completely redefined. I said yesterday in the waiting room "God, I don't even feel like I know who you are anymore...." and when I said it, it literally shook me (worry not, we were the only ones in the waiting room). But I can tell you this: He is faithful. I walked through yesterday with two small children, my husband was 3 hours away, and for all practical reasons I should have felt absolutely vulnerable and terrified. This is how I know He was with me. His rod and His staff, they comfort me. Yeah I was emotional and I know I got some definite looks from people, but who cares. My daughter is healthy and I have a feeling even if she wasn't, He would still be faithful.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Fall...
I absolutely love the changing of the seasons. I especially love when the whisperings of fall come around. I look forward to fall more than any other season. It rained all day yesterday, and was overall kind of dreary, but still hot. Nonetheless, it got me thinking about fall - so I made a big pot of chili. I told W we needed to cut the AC way down so we could be cold while we ate the hot chili, haha. Anyway, this morning I am proud to say our AC is completely off. The windows are open. I have a delicious smelling mulled cider candle burning. And that chili, was perfect for lunch. I'm such a nerd, I know... I just love fall. I think I'm going to bake some banana bread muffins this afternoon to continue in celebration of fall... and catch some Auburn football.
This morning W took T-Pup to the Home Depot for the Kid's Workshop. This has been tradition in our house for the past 6 months the first Saturday of every month. Anyway, today they made this dude. Answer this for me - how do you teach a 3 year old to thump? He is getting frustrated and throwing the paper football through the goal. I'm sure it's frustrating, but it sure is funny to watch. I can't wait until he is big enough to actually play pop warner football.
This morning W took T-Pup to the Home Depot for the Kid's Workshop. This has been tradition in our house for the past 6 months the first Saturday of every month. Anyway, today they made this dude. Answer this for me - how do you teach a 3 year old to thump? He is getting frustrated and throwing the paper football through the goal. I'm sure it's frustrating, but it sure is funny to watch. I can't wait until he is big enough to actually play pop warner football.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Happy Birthday
To our little man, T-Pup! He is 3 today. Wow. How time flies! As I look back over the last year, here are a few things that come to mind...
-Sam. When she was born, W's parents brought T-Pup to the hospital to see us. He was so mad at us. He wouldn't touch me or look at me, and when W picked him up, he slapped him in the face. I guess having your only child syndrome taken away is the most traumatic thing that could happen to a little guy.
-Rotavirus. On the last day of our youth ski trip, February 24, T-Pup woke up terribly sick. Needless to say, that was only day 1 of a 5 day bout with rotavirus. Those were by far the hardest days I've ever experienced as a parent. Sam was only 4 months, and T-Pup was vomiting and well...the other... constantly. Wow, it still shakes me to remember how sick he was. I still thank God for the friends that help get me through those days.
-Potty training. We did it! At first I fought and fought with him, then just decided to give it up. Sure enough, one day in April he said he wanted to use the potty. The rest is history. I'm so glad this is behind us and not still in front of us!
-Beginning to believe. About 2 months ago, I was giving T-Pup a bath. All of a sudden, he looked up at me and said "Mommy, where does Jesus live?" and I (taken off guard... we had just been discussing Elmo and Ernie) said "Right here bud, in your heart" and pointed to his chest. He replied, without skipping a beat, "oh yeah, that's right. Jesus is in my heart. And God, too". Also, a few weeks ago W took T-Pup to his bedroom to tuck him in. They said prayers, and all of a sudden T-Pup said "umm Daddy, is that Jesus?" and pointed behind W. W said he reluctantly turned around, of course didn't see anything, and turned back to T-Pup (obviously a little taken aback) and said "come Lord Jesus!" and tucked him in.
It's so amazing to me to consider the development that has happened, and has yet to happen. We're still working on fits of him not getting what he wants, of sitting still and listening, of being instantly obedient.
But I'm encouraged, because I'm still working on the same things within myself.
-Sam. When she was born, W's parents brought T-Pup to the hospital to see us. He was so mad at us. He wouldn't touch me or look at me, and when W picked him up, he slapped him in the face. I guess having your only child syndrome taken away is the most traumatic thing that could happen to a little guy.
-Rotavirus. On the last day of our youth ski trip, February 24, T-Pup woke up terribly sick. Needless to say, that was only day 1 of a 5 day bout with rotavirus. Those were by far the hardest days I've ever experienced as a parent. Sam was only 4 months, and T-Pup was vomiting and well...the other... constantly. Wow, it still shakes me to remember how sick he was. I still thank God for the friends that help get me through those days.
-Potty training. We did it! At first I fought and fought with him, then just decided to give it up. Sure enough, one day in April he said he wanted to use the potty. The rest is history. I'm so glad this is behind us and not still in front of us!
-Beginning to believe. About 2 months ago, I was giving T-Pup a bath. All of a sudden, he looked up at me and said "Mommy, where does Jesus live?" and I (taken off guard... we had just been discussing Elmo and Ernie) said "Right here bud, in your heart" and pointed to his chest. He replied, without skipping a beat, "oh yeah, that's right. Jesus is in my heart. And God, too". Also, a few weeks ago W took T-Pup to his bedroom to tuck him in. They said prayers, and all of a sudden T-Pup said "umm Daddy, is that Jesus?" and pointed behind W. W said he reluctantly turned around, of course didn't see anything, and turned back to T-Pup (obviously a little taken aback) and said "come Lord Jesus!" and tucked him in.
It's so amazing to me to consider the development that has happened, and has yet to happen. We're still working on fits of him not getting what he wants, of sitting still and listening, of being instantly obedient.
But I'm encouraged, because I'm still working on the same things within myself.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
The words of my mouth
Honestly, I say so many things I never thought I would say. Just this morning I found myself telling my son "Don't hit your sister in the head with your golf club!".
On Saturday we went to meet my brother-in-law at a restaurant about an hour away, and T-Pup said he needed to go potty. When we went into the restroom, the music was considerably louder than in the restaurant. Immediately, he started shimmying around the toilet to the tune of the music. I started laughing hysterically at the sight of this unusual moment then said "C'mon bud, we don't dance around the toilet".
This morning I was changing my daughter's #2 diaper, and I said something like "shew, this is stinky-bo-dinky". I don't know why I said it, it just came out. T-Pup almost fell over laughing, and kept repeating "stinky-bo-dinky, stinky-bo-dinky".
I love these moments with children. They are so unpredictable. This honestly scares me for I've heard the horror stories of my childhood, and remember my mom telling people "she's just our little mouth of the south". I know I have it coming. I'm sure it's not going to be pretty either!
We all know Psalm 19:14:
I've found myself recently spelling to my husband. "When do you want me to put him to B-E-D?"; "Do you want some S-U-N D-R-O-P?" etc, etc. I'm altering the words of my mouth to avoid the ears of my children. These things are normal, everyone does it somehow. What bothers me are the words of my mouth that I don't conceal; the ones where I'm speaking about some one's character, or attitude, or how I've been wronged in some way. After a bout of confusion at the car wash Sunday afternoon, I got in my vehicle and frustratingly said "That woman is a jerk!" and T-Pup said "Mommy what's wrong?" and it convicted the mess out of me. I replied as honestly as I could and told him "I'm sorry bud, Mommy has a bad attitude".
It's not enough to watch what comes out my mouth, I need to check what's in my heart as well. I'm sure there are plenty of times each day that God smiles or laughs at something I say. I'm also sure there are times that He is grieved. As I speak to my children, and to those around me, I want them to "know my heart". I want to teach our children about these things, and be a positive example for them to learn from; I know several people and the way I've learned from them is knowing that I don't want to be like them. It's not a bad thing, but I take note and say "hey, this is something I don't want in my life, how can I avoid it"...
On Saturday we went to meet my brother-in-law at a restaurant about an hour away, and T-Pup said he needed to go potty. When we went into the restroom, the music was considerably louder than in the restaurant. Immediately, he started shimmying around the toilet to the tune of the music. I started laughing hysterically at the sight of this unusual moment then said "C'mon bud, we don't dance around the toilet".
This morning I was changing my daughter's #2 diaper, and I said something like "shew, this is stinky-bo-dinky". I don't know why I said it, it just came out. T-Pup almost fell over laughing, and kept repeating "stinky-bo-dinky, stinky-bo-dinky".
I love these moments with children. They are so unpredictable. This honestly scares me for I've heard the horror stories of my childhood, and remember my mom telling people "she's just our little mouth of the south". I know I have it coming. I'm sure it's not going to be pretty either!
We all know Psalm 19:14:
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer.
I've found myself recently spelling to my husband. "When do you want me to put him to B-E-D?"; "Do you want some S-U-N D-R-O-P?" etc, etc. I'm altering the words of my mouth to avoid the ears of my children. These things are normal, everyone does it somehow. What bothers me are the words of my mouth that I don't conceal; the ones where I'm speaking about some one's character, or attitude, or how I've been wronged in some way. After a bout of confusion at the car wash Sunday afternoon, I got in my vehicle and frustratingly said "That woman is a jerk!" and T-Pup said "Mommy what's wrong?" and it convicted the mess out of me. I replied as honestly as I could and told him "I'm sorry bud, Mommy has a bad attitude".
May the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart...
It's not enough to watch what comes out my mouth, I need to check what's in my heart as well. I'm sure there are plenty of times each day that God smiles or laughs at something I say. I'm also sure there are times that He is grieved. As I speak to my children, and to those around me, I want them to "know my heart". I want to teach our children about these things, and be a positive example for them to learn from; I know several people and the way I've learned from them is knowing that I don't want to be like them. It's not a bad thing, but I take note and say "hey, this is something I don't want in my life, how can I avoid it"...
...be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and Redeemer.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
From the eyes of my son.
Our family has been watching the Olympics each evening, and nearly every night we see the same commercial.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rFBVA-KoJSI
The very last scene of the commercial shows a very illuminated scene in Beijing, possibly some sort of festival in the street. Anyway, each time we see the commercial our nearly 3 year old son says "Wow that looks fun... what is that?" and we reply "it's China!".
We were coming back into town last weekend and the sun had already set. We approached the small, rural fair that graces the community with its presence each fall, and it was very well illuminated.
Our dear son then says "Mommy, is that China?"
It reminded me that he is listening. He is paying attention to what we say. It may not always look that way, but our words do have an impact.
When our laughter subsided, we explained the fair was indeed not China, but maybe we can go to China someday!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rFBVA-KoJSI
The very last scene of the commercial shows a very illuminated scene in Beijing, possibly some sort of festival in the street. Anyway, each time we see the commercial our nearly 3 year old son says "Wow that looks fun... what is that?" and we reply "it's China!".
We were coming back into town last weekend and the sun had already set. We approached the small, rural fair that graces the community with its presence each fall, and it was very well illuminated.
Our dear son then says "Mommy, is that China?"
It reminded me that he is listening. He is paying attention to what we say. It may not always look that way, but our words do have an impact.
When our laughter subsided, we explained the fair was indeed not China, but maybe we can go to China someday!
The Genesis
Last week, my husband and I were talking during an hour's car ride to a nearby town. Having two small children, a car ride is often the most consistent conversation we have. We were talking about some of the deeper things in our hearts, and I shared with him that I feel parenting is one of my few "strengths". However, in a world of technology and higher education, it often seems this role is downplayed. I'm one of a hand full of mothers in our small town who stay home with their children; and I often feel looked down upon because of that. It is a sacrifice - but hear my heart: the worth far outweighs the cost. I often beat myself up because many of the women I know with children live luxurious lives, and on those days I have to remind myself of the worth. The things of this world will pass away, but teaching my children to hear the voice of God, to know His love, these things are eternal.
In the midst of this conversation, my husband encouraged me to start a blog with some parenting moments. Now, if you know my crew at all - at this point the humorous side will most likely prevail. I want to share with you though a bit of our lives - and pray that you may somehow be encouraged.
In the midst of this conversation, my husband encouraged me to start a blog with some parenting moments. Now, if you know my crew at all - at this point the humorous side will most likely prevail. I want to share with you though a bit of our lives - and pray that you may somehow be encouraged.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)