The Life of Rookie Parents

Mommy Moments.

2012-01-21T18:07:00.000-08:00

Only a mother would understand that title. Mommy Moments. You know...

Those moments where your toddler's meltdown pails in comparison to the meltdown you are having. Those moments where you are ready to clock out for the night and realize oh, wait you can't do that in the profession of motherhood. Or what about those moments where your child has a "moment" and you wonder, is this God trying to give me a revelation that what method of correction I just chose is like an allergic reaction to shellfish and I should promptly chuck it and never try that again??

This week so full of those moments. Am I the only one or does every mother constantly second guess

if they are doing the right thing?

Choosing the right methods of correction?

Not scarring their kids for life?

If it's possible to stop saying no so they don't ruin their chance at positivity?

AHHHHHH!

Yeah! It's been one of those weeks!

Gosh I feel like the more I read and the harder I try the farther I am to figuring out this whole parenting thing. IT'S SO HARD! I thought no sleep was hard, I thought dirty diapers were the only thing my kid could do to make my stomach turn! That's a piece of cake compared to dealing with allergies that WON'T go away, keeping appointments straight for both kids, trying to figure out if my toddler can REALLY be that mean or does he have food allergies that alter his behavior, choosing effective correction...

I mean really what is effective correction anyway? Like how do you know?? After trying a certain method of correction for two months how do you finally draw a conclusion uh this isn't working without feeling like a total failure. I'm just asking the real questions. The ones NO ONE answers BEFORE you have kids.

Ugh.

I just want to know what I am doing is right and good. But I feel like you never know until your kid is 20 and angry at the world because the parent was wack. Oh Lord, please don't let that be me!

Speechless

2012-01-19T20:03:00.001-08:00

This week had me speechless, at least I thought. Obviously, if I am blogging I have SOMETHING to say. This week has been one of those week of overloads. Something everyday and every night. New opportunities, exciting possibilities, inspiring life stories, parent co-op day at D's school...you get the point TOTAL overload. I am processing the good, the bad and the ugly.

Tomorrow my friend Abby leaves for Cambodia for at least two years. She won't have her phone number anymore and communication won't be as easy as shooting a text and to be honest I am thankful for that. I think during this season of her life she will realize how many people are so devoted to her life by showing they are willing to go the extra to communicate with her during this transition.

We had our good bye conversation tonight which we both agreed we had no idea what to say. And that's where my blog comes in. I was wondering whether to just spill the beans or to be speechless. Like, do I take the risk of sharing how much she will be missed and upsetting her or not say it and run the risk of her thinking I totally don't care she's halfway around the world? Do I ask how reliable the internet is over there and share I am totally freaked it will suck and we will never get to skype and have to start writing old fashioned letters and then forget the way her voice sounds? Ugh. I just didn't know what to say or do and I still don't.

I feel as though I am being challenged to be more than words of support. Better yet, how can I support her? Support her with works and prayers and a little bit of money....sorry, it's all we can spare! HA!

I am really scared. Not at all for her. I have a total peace she is doing the right thing and will succeed but at the same time I am scared for me. Will her life be totally, radically changed and mine stay the same? Will she come home to visit and I be the annoying friend who just totally doesn't get the real world she's lived? (read Kisses From Katie) I feel like cockroaches will become more like a random ant that's easy to overlook and dirty children, her own and the poor, her friends and the sick, the un-ignorable. I guess it challenges me to allow my life to be more sensitive here, where I am. And, no, I don't think I will ever see a roach and let it scurry off without sleeping with a broom in hand but reaching out to the poor and praying for the sick and loving orphans...yeah, I think I can do that better.

So here is to admitting I have no clue what to say tonight although I feel I have said much. I think I am feeling everything she is just from the opposite end. I am exciting, overwhelmed, challenged, sad, nervous and ready to get the ball rolling...so the two years will end! :)

Sheltered Protection

2012-01-13T18:49:00.000-08:00

Before I really get where I am going, let me make a few things clear: I have no interest in sheltering my children. I believe communication is the key in jumping the hurdles of negative exposure the world is constantly advertising. It's not my desire for my kids to hear about or learn about sex, profanity, war, homosexuality, abuse, drunkenness or like behaviors at an early age but I do desire that they learn about all of these things from me. Why? Because with me they will always get the truth whereas with an uneducated classmate they could possibly get manipulated in believing untrue and unbiblical principles pertaining to these topics.

In saying all of this, I have to confess the world makes me nervous. I have nothing against teachers, my gosh they try the best they can, but the things I see on the news pertaining to the public school system scare me! It is NOT the same world I knew at 6 and 10 and even 14 or 15.

However, I don't believe that it's wise to shelter our children. When we shelter our children our efforts are fear based as opposed to faith based. We are hiding the truth as opposed to sharing and learning the truth TOGETHER. Don't get me wrong, I don't think that my four year old is ready to hear about the consequences of a one night stand or what it means for a child to be raped but I do believe every God fearing parent can be spirit led into giving age appropriate explanations that will cease curious searching for answers to very important questions. When our curiosity goes searching any answer will do.

I believe my responsibility as a mother is to provide protection against the untruths that exist. When we provide protection we are operating in faith that the word of God and spirit we are led by will not lead us or our children astray.

After hearing a recent news report about "scream rooms" in public schools I found myself fearful. What my kids will see, hear, and witness remains a mystery now but one day it will be reality. I also just read reports of billboards young children are being exposed to that give confusing messages pertaining to God and how he operates. The truth is you can't hide the big bad world that's out there. It's lurking, waiting and one day it will be exposed for her raw and perverse and untrue self.

I guess this post is more about empowerment to any reading mother. There isn't an untruth or immoral existing thing occurring in this world God doesn't know about. And there isn't a person who knows the love we have for our children better than He. Don't be fearful of exposure and certainly don't hide the truth to these issues. Use them as a way to expose your children to the truth and a closer relationship with you.

Let your faith be strengthened and your fear be eliminated! Choose protection!

2012-01-13T06:30:00.000-08:00

Before

After

So, the unthinkable happened. Dalen asked for a haircut...JUST like his dads. I'm not one to deprive my child of the freedom to choose their own outfits (even if they don't quite match), choose what they want for lunch and so on but I just wasn't ready to cut it THAT short. But I will say this, his hair is shorter than it's ever been since we have let it grow out. He really looks like a different kid. Too grown up, too polished and put together if you ask me but he loves it. Every morning he washes his own hair, brushes it and claims to "style it". What a divo!

Today Cola begins speech therapy in our home. We are thinking she possibly has a slight speech delay and just want to stay on top of things so prevent her from getting behind. What is this woman going to do??!! I am really curious to find out!

Nothing heavy, deep or inspirational today just wanted to give a brief update.

FOCUS

2012-01-11T12:56:00.000-08:00

It is often hard to get back to the daily grind. After nearly two weeks of company, three weeks of Dalen being off from pre-school, Mario having a week off of work and various activities related to Christmas/New Year's our schedule has resumed as "normal".

Which leads me to the question what is normal? I'm not exactly sure how any married mother follows a rigid plan. If it works for you or them, that's great but I've found there is no normal around here. Every week is an exception to normal. There is always an event at Dalen's school, youth outing, date night or something of the sense that is preventing us from maintaining a week to week norm. And I must admit I am learning to love and embrace it.

As a stay at home mom I look forward to mixing things up and also teaching my children to be flexible to different schedules and events. I am certain if we followed a rigid routine I would be saying "no" to a lot of the things I love. I have also learned while loving weeks that are full of random activities we choose to attend that I have to stay focused on priorities and finances.

It's easy to lose sight of these things in the midst of a chaotic world that seems to be spinning from one service to another's birthday party to my doctor's check-up. So this year my word is FOCUS. Focus on everything. Keep in sight what really matters and everything else will become part of a hazy background you forget is even there.

I really felt my word for 2012 was confirmed when my husband chose the same word a few weeks ago but I took some extra time to think it through. FOCUS it is!

Word.

2012-01-04T18:45:00.000-08:00

I'm not big into New Year's Resolutions. I'm not against them and have faith people can keep them if they choose them wisely. I, personally, have just tried to develop a lifestyle of reflection and bettering myself constantly.

I am, however, trying something new. I am searching for a word. A perfect word, that will define, guide and focus my year. A word that will emphasize what exactly it is the Lord wants me to accomplish, attempt and specifically devote myself to.

I asked my FB friends what their word would be for 2012 and got a really overwhelming response. I heard everything from recovery to victory to survival (my favorite, from my friend who is moving to Cambodia in a just a few days) to my crazy uncle who responded laziness. HA! I am going back and forth between just a few words that keep ringing inside of me.

When we are focused on a purpose, we tend to plan a strategy and planning is the personal assistant of success. I have been so inspired by people's personal stories around me. I am closely following an adoption story, missionary story, and of course the stories of those who have gone before me, in the Bible. Every successful story may not have started with a plan but somewhere along the way it recognized the importance of strategy.

I'll let you know what word I choose.

Out with the old, in with the new

2012-01-02T14:58:00.000-08:00

Goodbye 2011, hello 2012!

It's been almost two weeks since I blogged last. Here are the highlights and thoughts regarding Christmas this year.

1) Not emphasizing gifts this year was the absolute BEST thing we have ever done as parents. It is def not a one year thing.

2) A memory I will take from this year forever will be the night The Polar Express came on ABC Family channel. I made a pallet for me and D and we laid and watched the entire thing while drinking hot cocoa from glass mugs. So much fun and def his fav. book and movie we watched this holiday season.

3) We read about 25 Christmas books as a family.

4) Without my emphasis on gifts my daughter still ended up with 7 baby dolls from friends and family. If that doesn't tell you something...

5) Christmas Eve was amazing. It was jammed of loud fun with all of the Vining family cousins. We scored a George Foreman grill in the gift exchange. SUPER HAPPY!

6)Christmas Day was great. Breakfast with family, church, lunch with the family, read Christmas story, THEN gifts.

7) My sister and friend came to visit for 7 days! It's the longest any visitors have stayed since we moved. Although I endured something that felt like strep and Cola got a double ear infection we managed to make a glorious breakfast daily and enjoy 80 degree weather! Yes, you read that correctly...eighty.

8)I had to hide many friends this on FB this season. Got sick of hearing of late packages and their Christmas being "ruined" because their child would be one gift short. I'm sure they're still breathing...

9) I'm really hoping 2010 took a few words and phrases with it...like #justsayin', epic and that's all. Anyone else feel like these follow every tweet or FB status. Drives me nuts.

Enjoy a few pics of our holiday

Dalen and Cola in their pajamas. Christmas Eve
Cola in my cousins new winter wear!
Me and my boy!
One of the many trucks he got from family and friends.
Six kids! It was LOUD! And Oh, so fun!
Christmas day!

Umm, defriend!

2011-12-19T15:34:00.001-08:00

I totally realize that if I were to tell you how annoyed I am at all of the complaints I read on FB and see on Twitter I would be just another guilty complainer. So, I will try to prove a point without complaining.

Obviously, I am guilty of complaining, I wrote about it a few posts back. It got pretty bad and just listening to myself was annoying. But honestly, I have NEVER in my life seen or heard more continuous complaining in my life! I am talking about day after day, post after post, every pain, disappointment, relationship problem posted for the entire world to read. No, I do not mind the occaisonal, "I need prayer, my back is killing me" post or even "the kids are driving me madd"-it keeps you real- but honestly I am about to contact the DSM to see if there is a disorder called Compulsive Complaining.

Because I noticed this problem in my own life, I have BEEN amazed at how many things you can find that just tickle you happy if you are attentive to your life. Seriously, there are SOOOO many things, small, unimportant things that I LOVE about this place called earth and yes, of course there are things that I despise but I just don't wish to meditate upon them day in and out for weeks at a time.

For those of you who are guilty of complaining and say, "So glad for you, Megan! Glad your life is THAT perfect that you can refrain from complaining" it has nothing to do with a perfect life and everything to do with the practice of self-control. Of course, I would love to vent about the terrible nights sleep I got two weeks back, or that every morning I wake up to neck and/or back pain or my old car or you name it...but COME ON PEOPLE! If you are breathing give some praise every now and again.

Just in case you wonder what ridiculous things I find myself so thankful for here are a few....

I am so thankful for to-go cup lids. I love them because they say Coke and Diet and I always punch Coke for Cola and Diet for Dalen so I can keep them seperate.

I love turning down our curvy street, slowly, because there is a walking trail and I get to see little babies pushed in their strollers and cute dogs being walked with wagging tails.

The fact that my back windows roll down and up is such a blessing. Its Cola's daily treat to stick her little fingers through the small cracks and feel the wind after dropping Dad and Dalen off at work and school.

I love that I've found so many FREE things to do with my kids like checking out library books, playing at Chik-fil-A playground or the indoor playground at the mall.

Super stoked I finally got a smart phone and it was FREE!

See, it's that easy.

And I must just end with this....do not justify your complaining with praise after. People who complain EVERYDAY and then follow the complaint by "oh, but God is so good" or "I know God will heal me" seriously it doesn't make it any better.

I've found a solution to toxic complaining....DEFRIEND!

Debt

2011-12-15T16:09:00.001-08:00

This month is one of those months every young couple (don't let me know if I'm wrong, I'd like to think I am not alone) experiences. Unexpected bills hit you from every angle and messes up the budget you have tried so hard to master. And what other month would be better than, December? I must say I am really glad I don't have the added stress of feeling obligated to give my kids the entire world on Christmas Day.

Tonight, Mario and I cooked together in the kitchen. Our meals haven't been experimental recipes found on Pinterest this week but rather bland and casual as we try to cut back on everything we can. But this morning I found a frozen pack of pork chops and we whipped up an awesome dinner! Cajun fried pork chops! YUM!

We cooked in silence except for the nice voice of John Meyer humming in the background from Mario's phone. Like usual we sat the table, all of our bright red plates full of a great meal we prepared. We joined hands to pray and with hearts of thanks there was a moment of an overwhelming sense of peace that everything will be ok. My husband led the prayer and thanked God that "our love for one another will never be in debt".

It was with that line I realized my heart was full. My hands may look empty but my heart is full. And with that thanks and a Christmas candle lit in the center of the table we ate and laughed as if all was well in our life and then I realized, it was. All was/is well.

The money we have lost or have yet to discover is nothing that hard work can't reproduce but the love we have for one another is absolutely priceless and without it we would feel the pain of debt in our heart not just in our pockets.

Laying Things To Rest

2011-12-12T16:02:00.000-08:00

I have found it so easy to become depressed during the Christmas holidays; it's cold outside, dark early and the ending of another year is tying up lose ends.

The end of every year I find myself reflecting upon the memories - good and bad. And of course, we all begin to think and dream about the year to come. I don't think there's ever been a year where I've said, "I did it all!" or "I accomplished all I wanted or could have!". Every year I find myself somewhat disappointed that I didn't do more, try harder or dream bigger.

This year I can hardly handle the heartache of not being in a house. I feel like our entire life was wrapped around looking, planning, saving, researching and dreaming of what Cola's second birthday would be like in our very own home or what Christmas would be like in our new place. When I start thinking of the end I know the beginning is just around the corner. 2012 will be here before we know it. Part of me just wants to lay things to rest. Stop hoping and believing for these big things to happen for our family and just dream differently.

But I am realizing the dream didn't fail, the plan did. The dreamer in us will never die but sometimes we just have to try a different route and plan a different strategy. My nerves become immediately frazzled when I think of starting to save for a house from scratch again. Everything we held on to is now gone - gone to dental work, hospital bills or rent payments.

I'm not sure what our new plan will be or how we can do it better but I don't want the dream to die. The plan may need to be rebirthed but the dream has to live on.

Craziness

2011-12-11T16:17:00.000-08:00

Have you ever just looked around and thought, "Wow, this world we live in is just craziness?" Things people do don't make sense, sometimes. *This post is written while laughing, not complaining. So just enjoy my sarcasm.

Like, Target. Can you please tell me why in the world you are already selling bathing suits? It JUST got cold! Not to mention, who wants to think of getting in a bathing suit right around the Holidays...aka excuse to gain a good extra 5 lbs.?

And then there is the let's throw a party extroverts who want to invite you over (totally fine) and then suggest let's do a gift exchange! The most annoying part...they follow it up with oh, but don't buy anything big, just a little $5 something or another. Really, people, what's even the point? So you venture out in traffic (aka the black plague) to hunt a $5 something or another and realize there is absolutely NOTHING decent for a mere $5 and even if there was you can't look THAT cheap so you end up spending $15.

Oh, and I must mention room mothers. I had no idea Dalen's school had room mothers, I'm sure they kept it a secret in fear I would volunteer to be one HAHAHA. Anyways, I get a e-mail from a woman I have never met and whose name I couldn't pronounce if you paid me to asking me (and apparently the rest of the mothers of the class) should we get the teachers a gift (well of course) and would you be willing to chip in and do I have suggestions. How nice! (really) But then I get 15 e-mails in response to her e-mail saying things like "yes" or "sounds great". Uhh, yes, we should get them a gift? Or sounds great for us to chip in....AHH I was so confused and no one ever left a suggestion. So, if you are a room mother, take charge. A little clarity goes a long way.

The "Me" In Megan

2011-12-09T05:30:00.000-08:00

Today is one of those days. Everything is going smoothly except for the occasional glitch every family experiences, every morning. But it's one of those days I am totally dreaming of shopping for winter scarves and new boots, getting a much needed manicure, eating a nice quiet lunch with a close friend and then napping with Mario.

I think "Me" is in Megan for a reason. I think of "Me" waaaay too much somedays. I wake up wanting things I know I can't afford and desire to pamper myself with things I don't have time for, in spite of having two children. Sometimes accepting the fact that I can't enjoy my life at my own leisure on most days is still a struggle. Of course, I am totally human - I long to sleep in but I have two alarm clocks called children and unfortunately they do not come equipped with a snooze button. I would love to sit for 15 minutes straight and paint my nails but I typically paint one stroke at a time and in between I am blowing a nose or digging something out of my baby's throat. Sometimes I go to church or the grocery store with a half painted hand. It's better to be half put together than not put together at all??

Sometimes the most beautiful thing about motherhood is that life is no longer about me and sometimes it serves as the greatest challenge. I wish I could say I wake up everyday bright eyed and bushy tailed, ready to whip up a homemade breakfast and dress each child in a crisp, clean, freshly ironed outfit that matches perfectly. Unfortunately, some mornings I wake up and don't see Mom I see the "Me" in Megan.

I think every mother has these days. Days where shopping and pampering are a dream and reality is carpool, potty training and possibly a shower. Its tough. Nothing I haven't learned to conquer in time but it's still tough.

My Word

2011-12-06T20:12:00.000-08:00

Is anyone else's mailbox overflowing with catalogs and sales ads? Seriously, I don't care you are selling oven mits for $.99 I just want my personalized Christmas cards from friends and family! We got our first one in the mail the other day. I LOVE cards!

Is anyone else bothered by all of the people who see your kids and without asking how they are or what fun things they are doing for Christmas with mom and dad they ask that annoying question, "What do you want for Christmas?" Well, of course that's all they ask, I mean it matters most right?

Yes. Bah Humbug.

I know. I can't picket America. I can't destroy consumerism. I can't impose my thoughts and beliefs upon others but really if you take a minute and evaluate you will see JUST how bad it is! It is BAD out there. Everywhere you turn there are commercials and ads and junk e-mails about stuff, things, toys.

My word right now is, focused. I am bombarded COMPLETELY with the emphasis on gifts but somehow, someway I am managing to stay on track. I'm sorry but I am totally patting myself on the back, cheering my family on and leading my kids right to the manger where we should be. And no, I am going batty or trying to be annoying but I think we all need focus right now.

Parties. Wish Lists. Traveling. Finances. Family. Work. Friends. School parties. It's almost impossible to not be overwhelmed! I thought the way to go was to do 1st things 1st but I am realizing if it's not 1st than it's not important. At some point we have to say no or maybe later or to be honest but my calendar is going to puke if I book another event that isn't being spent with my loved ones.

I feel so right about this. It's not a stand or a statement-it's a lifestyle. One I hope to God goes to my kids and straight to their kids and down to their kids. This is where I want my fingerprint, on generations to come. I want to make a difference and an impact, a radical change starting with my family.

You don't have to have a lot to give a lot. The most valuable thing you can give is time and it doesn't cost a dime.

Kisses

2011-12-05T14:51:00.000-08:00

I feel like my heart is exploding with so many emotions and my body with so many feelings. Since late last night I can feel my body fighting off something icky, since yesterday morning my heart has reflected upon our morning sermon by a guest speaker who spoke on self-encouragement. Late this afternoon I finished the book Kisses From Katie which I KNOW I read in perfect timing. It is a book about giving, not about giving something but giving everything. It is a MUST READ. I typically ALWAYS give my books away when I'm done but this one I know I will go back to.

In this season of my life, where I am trying my best to be a great mom and a teacher of all things good I am being intentional about what I read. After seeing this book on my friends blog I knew it would be great to read around the holidays so that I would be encouraged and inspired to stay focused on giving and family. It's a book for EVERYONE-one who is considering adoption, one who wants to know more about the life of a missionary, one who wants to know more about Jesus and the fulfillment of His plans for our lives.

I am pleased to say that since the Friday after Thanksgiving I have checked out about a total of 18 books from the library about Christmas. We have read these by the light of the Christmas tree, snuggled in bed together or on the go and in-between brushing teeth. The Polar Express is Dalen's favorite! We've read ones about there being no snow on the original Christmas and the legend of the candy cane and how what you believe is what you see. Dalen's imagination has soared from the sunny south to the frigid north pole. I love it!

I'm proud to say our tree is lit, and speckled with gorgeous ornaments and topped with an angel with a porcelain face (the entire thing was given to us-tree, ornaments and angel) and it's completely bare underneath. I am even prouder to say my son hasn't even noticed and has only mentioned gifts a few times. I'm telling you, there is power in what you emphasize. Last time he mentioned gifts he added a pogo stick to his wish list. It was in one of the books we read.

My heart is so full and hopeful for the 1st time in a while that I am doing this thing well. This thing we call motherhood, thing we've been blessed with called life. I've stayed encouraged by reflecting upon so many testimonies of what God has done in my life and marriage and family and I am trusting he will do it for others and in us AGAIN and AGAIN.

The Quietest Little Troublemaker

2011-11-30T16:18:00.000-08:00

I never thought I would see the day where my daughter would give me trouble all day long. I mean she has always been so peaceful, snuggly, sweet and quiet. About a month ago I feel like a different child woke up and took over my kid!

Today I went to the kitchen to fix dinner and left Cola sitting with a book in the living room. I seriously never heard a peep! I figured she was looking quietly at her book, like always. Uh, no. She was taking every ornament off the tree....AGAIN...and had taken the entire strand of lights off. She was standing the arm of the couch leaning over and I caught her and the tree just as they both begin to sway and lose their balance. Did I mention I never heard a peep?

Dalen and I have read 10 Christmas books so far. Tonight was his favorite selection The Polar Express. We all piled in the bed as a family and I thought we were all listening intently as I read about the little boy who traveled by train to the North Pole. Umm, no. The next thing I know I see my petite, powdered-covered "princess" re-enter our bedroom with a shameful look on her face. She had stripped herself down to her pull up. I looked at my husband in disbelief and finally asked, "What? How? She was just laying next to me!" None of us ever heard her walk out of our room or get into the pantry, open the box of bisquick, pour it all over the kitchen floor and ROLL IN IT! Seriously! How quiet can a kid be? Well, I guess when I prayed my 2nd would be quieter than my 1st I surely found favor!

Not only has she been into things she has had a mind of her own. She casually tells us no with a roll of the eyes as if she is granting our every wish. It's crazy!

For some reason I think we are going to be seeing a lot of messes between the two Hoodlums. Let the good times roll!

The Gifts That Keep Giving.

2011-11-28T17:41:00.000-08:00

I'm 27. I've been privileged to celebrate the birth of Christ in the company of family twenty-seven times. Every year we had a tree and the base was always hugged by gifts, surrounded by family and most years a warm fireplace. Christmas morning was the same most years; we got up early, read the Christmas story, prayed, opened gifts, ate breakfast, went back to sleep and then ate lunch. I never had a bad Christmas. They have all been full and wonderful.

This year we are getting the kids three gifts each. If it was good enough for Christ, it's plenty enough for them.

I just had a revelation though. I have an impecable memory. Like, seriously, there aren't too many details I forget but I just sat and racked my brain trying to think of gifts I got as a child. I literally cannot recall one. Not a single one! I remember the Christmas before I got married my parents got us laptops but I seriously cannot remember one single gift I got as a kid. I hate to admit it because I know my parents worked so very hard to provide gifts for us but the truth is, I only remember the memories.

I know, it sounds like I am just trying to prove a point that I made in a previous blog (family matters most at the holidays, not gifts) but I promise you I only remember memories made around the kitchen table playing games like Bolderdash, Trivial Pursuit, and Taboo. I remember every year hearing a small whisper talking over whoever read the Christmas story and looking over only to see my grandmother quoting the entire story along with my dad or grandfather, totally by memory. I remember when I was really little, running like crazy through my Granny's house with my cousins, laughing our heads off and my one cousin who always peed in her pants when we got to laughing really hard.

Then there was the year when it was strange to feel the child like excitement all over again because I had a son to share the morning with. He wore red pajamas and had the cutest little tummy ever. I remember the first Christmas my grandfather was gone and the year my uncle was in Iraq. I remember last year, like it was yesterday. Our first Christmas just us four Hoods. We did only what we wanted to do. It was peaceful and full and fun.

Memories are the gifts that keep giving-giving me laughter, smiles and assurance that when I take the difficult stand to emphasize Christ (which is totally minimized by society these days) and do away with the stress of excess I am ABSOLUTELY doing the RIGHT thing. I know ten years from now I won't remember what's under the tree, but I will treasure who sat around it.

How many child gifts can you remember? Do you remember more memories than gifts?

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-28T17:17:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving was my favorite Thanksgiving EVER. We made it a priority to do family, family and more family. My parents came in on Wednesday, I made dinner (which turned out great, sigh of relief), and then Thursday we headed to Belleview to my dad's side of the family to eat and spend the day.

There were a whopping 50 people in attendance-thank God for a massive bounce house, HUGE front porch and acres of flat, wide open, grassy fields for the kids to run absolutely wild. The day was so full! Not full of busy or stress but full of laughter, loved ones and the kind of fellowship that makes your heart fall deeper in love with your family. We all brought a dish or two and sat at long covered tabled on my aunt and uncles front porch (yes, it's that big). The kids had an absolute blast! The ran, jumped and slid a million times again in the field and on the bounce house. If your weather permits one I would strongly suggest renting one for large family gatherings and of course if your property allows space for one.

Wednesday night we put up the tree, with the help of my mom. My dad sat and let us know of every bare spot and Mario took pictures. She turned out so pretty! Cola has de-ornamented the tree several times and shattered one ornament by tossing it on the tile floor. I guess that's just all a part of it? Dalen got the honors of putting the angel on the top.

All in all it was a great few days! It is still strange to me though. To look around and see my cousins who I used to run around in the rain in my panties with, now mothers and wives and working full time. It's also probably the first time I looked around at my family of great aunts and uncles and grandparents and even parents and see their age. It's increasing by the day. It hit me this year they won't be here forever. Which one of us will open the door of our home when they are gone? Very strange feeling but I felt it heavy and deep within. For now I am just thankful we had another year with them.

Life

2011-11-19T17:34:00.000-08:00

I've been overwhelmed of the feelings I had a few years ago when I took a job in retail so that we could have extra cash for gifts, for Christmas. I was working more than I was spending time with my family which is what holidays are all about and I said I would never do it again. Every year, this time of year, when traffic seems to pick up and Thanksgiving is overlooked and black Friday ads are more important than ANYTHING it seems a lurking heaviness comes in my life and won't leave.

You can't escape society. You just can't. But I hate how what life is all about, is not what life is all about-if that makes sense. I understand we all have different priorities because we all have different lives but seriously how important is the newest toy, the greatest gift, that second job? What are we teaching our children about our priorities? When we are willing to stand in line longer than we are willing to sit and do a craft with our kids where is our heart, really?

And to be honest, I won't stop here.

Of course the holidays are very tempting to get overwhelmed, too busy, booked with parties and feel as though you have to attend the things you have no interest in but really I think it's to the point where it happens all year!

What is life all about? REALLY! WHAT IS IT REALLY ABOUT?

I just found a Pinterest pin which included tips on how to be a successful anorexic. REALLY? These tips (if really completed by someone) would literally consume one's life! So, really, is life seriously about how skinny one can be? I don't think there is anything wrong with buying a new toy or splurging here and there on your kids around the holidays but when it consumes your life?? How far are we going to go people?

I think that's called idolatry. When something becomes more important more than anything and even God that is an idol.

My heart just gets sad this time of year. I remember waiting for the Christmas stuff to get put out and now it's like Halloween stuff and Christmas are out together and Thanksgiving....we might as well just take it off the calendar because what does it really matter anymore??

I just want to be cautious of keeping my priorities in line. I'll never get this moment back-EVER and you will never get this Thanksgiving or Christmas back either so what is most important this holiday season?

Dalen's Day

2011-11-16T13:48:00.000-08:00

Today was my parent co-op day with Dalen's school. I love going into his classroom and seeing him in a classroom setting and how he interacts with others and works on things that we don't typically work on at home. It's really entertaining. This week was a great week to go considering they have done something called Pilgrim week. They have made everything from indian jewlery to pilgrim snacks. These days also give me plenty of funny stories.

So I finally get to meet the infamous W, who stole Dalen's first girlfriend L. One day Dalen and W are best friends and the next they are not so friendly. W REALLY clung close to me....so close I had to give him a friendly "could ya scoot back a tad kid??" Here is how our first conversation went.

W: Hey my name is Wee-Wum
Me: Oh, hey William.
W: What's her name?
Me: Cola
W: Coe-wah?
Me: yes
W: Who picked that name?
Me: me
W: oh, yoooow weiwd.
thought: possibly.

I got to get to know Dalen's new girlfriend, Sofia. She is super cute and sweet. She did agree that she was in fact Dalen's girlfriend.

One of Dalen's teachers is older. Probably in her mid 60s. Who knows how she keeps up with 20 toddlers! You can tell she is a total busy bee. She helped the kids do crafts without ever looking up. It was hilarious! She kept calling all of the kids the wrong names. I guess she didn't know their voices as well as she thought. At one point one kid told me he peed in his refrigerator at home and I didn't hold back and let him know that was disgusting. Without looking up she said umm Dalen let's not talk about things that would make an adults stomach turn and Dalen said but Mrs. K...(I'm sure he was going to let her know it wasn't him who told the story) and she totally cut him off and said let move on now. She did this like three times to different kids. I think they gave up trying to correct her.

Another kid had to let me know after I sat down on the rug for circle time that he finds snot on it all the time. WAHOO!

It really is amazing how much these little kids know and retain. It blows my mind! This co-op day was a really good day and I enjoyed it thoroughly.

The Grander Scheme...

2011-11-12T17:11:00.000-08:00

I just bought some RED lipstick. It was too hot not to share. This is probably my most favorite picture of Cola yet. This chica loves her some new panties, lip gloss and nail polish. While it's super cute now, I think it will be super expensive later. All in all I love having me a girl's girl!

This is totally not the point of this blog but...I've mentioned a million times how much I LOVE blogs! Recently, I have been so inspired by what I have read. Of course, there is my close friend who is blogging about her journey to Cambodia as a missionary, then there's another high school friend who is adopting a precious girl from Ethiopia and I just read about another young woman who I never knew well but attended college with, will be moving to Australia. Wow. I have a close friend who just got engaged and will become an aunt to twins early next year, another friend who just landed a great new job, my sister who went back to school and is making straight As (wahoo!), my mom just attended a wedding which is a lifetime of new beginnings for two young people.

Newness.

It's all around me.

So many people are taking the plunge into new places, new jobs, saying I Do, changing the life of babies and the world. I am surrounded by greatness! Great people, great things.

I love that being surrounded by great people makes you ask yourself what's the greatest things I'm doing in my life right now. It makes you want to strive to do something, anything other than the status quo.

But to be honest am I doing enough? Maybe this is Seasonal Depression Disorder (ha!) talking or maybe I'm not alone. But, really what's the most daring and greatest thing I've done lately.

Hmm, well I did just score that hot new red lipstick for ninety-three cents and I shared it with my daughter. That should count for something, shouldn't it??

If you talk to any of these people it's so humbling to hear them share about their life because they talk about moving around the world or adopting that baby from so far away or scoring that A+ is just so darn simple. About as simple as trying that new lipstick. There are those anxieties and fears present but all in all they just go with what is right.

I'm not sure if I have anyone looking at my ever so simple life and becoming inspired but I'd love to spice my life up a little. Do something crazy, daring, changing for someone else's better. I'm wondering what that thing may be and I'm not sure yet but maybe I'll explore and little find the right thing for me. The thing that will keep me going, not on fumes but on excitement and purpose.

Any suggestions??

Dear Dalen & Cola

2011-11-07T13:41:00.000-08:00

Do you ever just take a step back and look at things (society, technology, government, fashion) and see them evolving before your eyes? I'm not an embracer of change and for me the evolution of all things is scary! As things change and evolve into new trends or become extinct (couldn't think of another word lol) there are a few things I never want my kids to lose sight of. And here there...

Never forget the value of a handwritten note. It shows you are personable and go the extra mile to make something simple, special. I must say I love the random e-mail, private FB message or midnight text but NOTHING beats finding an unexpected card or note in my mailbox!

Always use manners. I used to think manners were all about making the parent looking good but now I realize (with manners being so yesterday) manners are about showing even a complete stranger respect, which everyone is worthy of.

Don't forget thank you notes. The reason thank you notes are so moving is because anyone can say thanks at the moment when they receive a gift or kind gesture but receiving a thank you note later lets someone know whatever they gave/did still has you thinking and moved you days or even weeks later.

Emphasize traditions and never hesitate to share them. I know I am a little Pinterest crazy right now but really the crafts or holiday ideas are so cool. Can you imagine sharing one small and seemingly insignificant craft or tradition to a friend or on Pinterest and then hundreds of families making beautiful traditions and memories by trying them? What you do with your family today could change a household tomorrow.

Know how valuable time is and how invaluable TV is not. We do watch TV in our home and probably more than we should but the truth is I'm not going to remember next year that episode of Regis and Kelly but I will remember and treasure a craft I made with the kids or the sound of laughter while Mario wrestles with the kids. Sometimes the only way to really connect is to disconnect-from TV, FB, Internet and darn it turn those smart phones off ;)

Never stop using your imagination. A good book is a great way to re-spark a dying imagination! Your imagination is the womb in which dreams are conceived! Keep giving those dreams and crazy ideas life!

What do you want your children to never lose sight of?

Thanks A Lot

2011-11-03T14:44:00.001-07:00

I've been reading so many FB posts about what people are thankful for and I am assuming because it's November everyone feels they should be extra thankful. Sometimes this gets on my nerves because I don't think it should take a holiday for us to be reminded we have much to be thankful for or an anniversary to let your spouse know you appreciate them or a birthday to let someone know you are glad they are alive.

But I do know holidays and special occaisons can often help put things in perspective and especially because a lot of people get time off from work they spend more time thinking and reflecting on things they may not have much time to spend on, on a normal day. After reading a lot of FB posts about what people are so thankful for in others it dawned on me they were pretty much all about what others do for them not for who they.

As a mom who is in constant demand and constantly doing something for the kids sometimes it's nice just to know it's not JUST about having clean underwear or a hot meal or clean bathtub to bathe in sometimes it's nice that people get to the core of the clean undies and hot meal. For instance, I wish people would appreciate the qualities in me more than the things I do. Then of course I have to self-examine myself and ask myself how often do I let others know what I appreciate about them.

This summer while at a wedding for a friend one of my friends literally spent the entire trip doing for others. She was constantly asking what she could do to help set up, make things easier for the bride, she even went out in the rain to get the car for the bride after the bridesmaid luncheon. And while all of those things were awesome and appreciated what I really appreciated about the acts of service was the unending level of compassion and selflessness in her heart. I really want to be a better person at letting others know what I appreciate about them, the true qualities that make me want to be their friend. It shouldn't be a time of thanks only when they make those qualities about us it should be brought to their attention often.

I really think appreciation is one of the best things in life. It lets you know you are noticed and not doing acts of service in vain but that someone is benefitting from them. Let someone know they are appreciated today!

Conquerer

2011-11-02T15:15:00.000-07:00

I often express how much I love reading blogs. Only the truthful ones, though. The ones who are truthful enough to let you know how frustrating motherhood can be, how demanding marriage is and how grueling balancing life seems at times. Recently my heart has been completely broken and my mind completely stretched while reading some of the most tragic life events of others.

These stories, while so trying, seem unfathomable my mind can't stop trying to comprehend why these things happened, how the person will get through the circumstance and when healing will find them complete. A young woman from my hometown who I have only met once gave birth to two identical twin boys at 20 weeks who didn't make it. My sister had a classmate commit suicide. Kim Kardashian is getting divorced after 72 days (spare me your latest jokes because frankly divorce is just not funny to me). Another young person committed suicide because of hateful peers who just wouldn't give them a break. And lately I was introduced to a website of testimonies from couples who decided to not allow their mistakes of adultry turn to the choice of divorce.

My biggest struggle today was using tweezers to remove bits of toilet paper that Cola had shoved sooo deeply inside her nose I was confident we would be going to the pediatrician. My biggest disappointment was my son jumping off the swing AGAIN at it's highest point and landing on his chin (no worries he's fine). My only hurt was a slight sore throat I seem to be fighting off again. While I am so thankful tragedy has been far from my heart and grief forgein from my soul I can't help but to ask what have I conquered today.

The only thing I can think of is myself. My heart has grown a little more compassionate and mind a little more challenged as I try to think of this heart wrenching events. It makes me want to give more, pray more intently and most of all thank God more often.

Whirlwind week!

2011-10-23T09:58:00.000-07:00

This post is going to be rather looong. That is, if my brain is still functioning enough to recall the events of it. Tuesday my dear friend A arrived to spend a few days of her Fall Break with us. I was super excited to have company and especially glad it was this particular friend who is sooo go with the flow you know every time she says "I don't care what we do" you know she REALLY means it.

We spent the two days she was here sitting, talking, browsing Pinterest, shopping, EATING and seeing Footloose (so hilarious!). The best part of her trip was seeing her minister to our young people by simply sharing what God has given her the opportunity to take part in. Many times I think we have preconcieved ideas that in order to minister to a group of people about something spiritual we must do it in a sermon format with deep theological reflection and while that is necessary at times this night it was not. But God moved all of the same. In my heart of hearts I really wanted our youth to walk away with a few things. #1 Missionaries aren't ALL weird or old (hahaha) #2 Being a missionary isn't about what you will live without or how far away you will move but totally about how obedient you are to his calling and #3 That when God calls us to do something we won't do it without fear or reserve but rather in spite of fears and reservations.

I totally know all of our students saw and got this through her sharing. It was so awesome to see them so wide eyed and attentive, you could have heard a pin drop! We have 5 young people (some young adults and some teens) who are praying for confirmation about whether God has called them to full time ministry and I know what she shared helped them realize if they are experiencing fear, that's normal and its normal to take time to process what they are feeling.

I am super proud to call this woman my friend. No because she is moving across the world to live possibly without a dryer and air conditioning but because she is an example of obedience and consistency as a friend and follower of Christ.

A left on Thursday and my mom came that afternoon. Friday I woke up to Cola's small cough being an monsterous croop with wheezing. Her entire chest and stomach was caving in and she was struggling to breath every few breaths. I knew she need to go to the doctor. TO make a long story short we found out she was in respiratory distress (having an asthma attack). She was sent to an ER where even after two steroids and an hour long breathing treatment she was only a little better. It was a loooong scary day and I am still praying we won't see these things again in her. She is now on a steroid twice a day and breathing treatments every four hours. This will change after a few days (we pray!).

Thankfully and my mom was in town and was able to help with Dalen for the day especially since we got a call in the midst of everything that Dalen began wheezing. Talk about a crazy day! I'm not sure how we manage with no family but somehow we do but God must have known in advance we really needed some extra help. I keep waiting for the day my parents won't be the ones giving to us but we will be the ones giving to them. So far I don't think the day is here. My mom left yesterday and both kids seem to be doing much better. Thankfully!

What a week!

My love

2011-10-17T19:23:00.000-07:00

Ok this blog will be totally confusing if you don't know my sense of humor or my personality. It's not a blog where I am complaining but taking something super bothersome and voicing it with my sarcastic humor. Those who know me will be able to hear my tone and see my expressions, those who don't will be annoyed and confused. Anyways...

Have I mentioned Pinterest is my new love? My addiction? It has taken Facebook's place but don't worry I won't let it take my blog's place ;)

I am starting to realize how MUCH FB has changed our world, our society. Everything you do has the DNA of FB running through it's veins and I am not so sure I like it! I'm sorry but I have two kids that want to follow me to the bathroom the last thing I wanted was 100 people following me as I like crafts and recipes and fashion ideas.

I just feel like everything we do virtually has turned into some psychostalker Lifetime special. I can't even search anything on Google without ads pertaining to those searches coming up on my sidebar of FB. It's annoying. I feel like all perameters of privacy and personal space have been invaded by people I don't, or better yet can't know b-c its programmed by a darn machine.

Just when I was really liking Pinterest I started seeing invites to follow pinboards and likes on my boards and I got that super strange feeling I am sure people get when they date someone on E Harmony and think the person is totally good looking but when they FINALLY go on that official first date they realize they are the biggest dweeb ever. At least I imagine it feels the same?? Ha!

I'm not sure if it's my personality or the stage of mothering I am in that just makes me feel a little closterphobic at times. I am being followed on FB, Pinterest, my blog, twitter and in real life by my kids. It's just getting a little much for me. Anyone agree? Or think I am totally ridiculous? Or maybe my next cleanse needs to be a few forms of social networking?

What to do with disappointment...

2011-10-15T06:06:00.000-07:00

Because I have spent so time examining myself in the area of complaining, I have actually come to a lot of conclusions concerning the issue. I tried a complaining cleanse and it was very unsuccessful. Not unsuccessful in the sense that I couldn't stop verbally complaining but unsuccessful in the sense that at the root of every complaint I have realized there is a stinging from the pain of disappointment.

Disappointment is an unfulfilled expectation, the failure of hope, the sting of an undesirable circumstance so great that it's almost as though hope and faith collide and without any say so disappointment is birthed and when left unattended one disappointment leads to another and they breed, birthing despair. Now that I know this, I know that complaining isn't the root issue, disappointment is. I have spent some time especially since last night (when all of this hit me) re-evaluating my expectations because if I complain a lot I must be disappointed alot?? I'm still piecing a lot of this together.

One thing I do KNOW is that when we are complaining we should immediately question, "What am I disappointed about?" or "What expectations were unfulfilled?" and then decipher "Were my expectations set too high?" or "What can I do differently next time so that my let down will be more manageable?" I also know that we have two choices to make when dealing with disappointment. We can talk about it or pray about it. Sometimes talking helps- A LOT! Sometimes and a lot of the time it makes things worse. If you are going to talk about it make sure you are talking to someone who is wise and sensitive and open to hearing not just listening. I would suggest a mentor or someone who has no biased opinions or nothing to gain or lose by being honest. It's important that if we do decide to speak with someone about our trouble hearts we still ALWAYS choose to pray. We should take our burdens to the Lord and leave them there, at the foot of the old splintery cross where healing was made possible.

I am learning the power of asking the RIGHT questions at the RIGHT time. We should always be asking questions that will advance us towards wholeness and wellness in Christ. The infamous question of why hardly promotes either. Have you ever answered your toddler when they ask why? You will find yourself an hour later still answering a vicious circle of why based questions.

I have learned rather quickly that our hearts should always be guarded. A guarded heart doesn't mean that you don't trust it means you have made a Biblical principle, top priority. Proverbs 4:23 says ABOVE ALL ELSE, guard your heart for it is the wellspring of life. Yes, I would assume that guarding our hearts is a matter of life and death. I have certainly experienced this in my life. When our hearts aren't guarded disappointments allow the organ of life to begin producing deadly emotions such as despair, distrust, pain, depression, bitterness, resentment and so on.

Here's to guarding your wellspring...

A Few Reasons...

2011-10-13T20:12:00.001-07:00

Here are a few reasons I believe I am addicted to Pinterest.com.

1) I thought about adding a glue gun to my Christmas list.

2) Someone's trash fabric scraps would be my found treasure.

3) Nutmeg and sunflower oil may make it on my grocery list for next week.

4) I am retracing the steps I learned so long ago in my Family and Consumer Science class on how to sew on a button.

5) I am considering giving ALL handmade gifts for Christmas this year.

6) I am mad Hobby Lobby doesn't let you rent sewing machines by the hour.

Oh, yes, I believe I have a slight problem!

The Season of all things cold and flu...

2011-10-08T04:55:00.000-07:00

It's no secret flu season is just around the corner or is it already flu season? Not sure, but anyhow don't you just LOVE this time of year? The time of year where you are enjoying watching your child play with another child before you leave him/her at school and begin to engage in a nice conversation with their parent only for the parent to reveal how sick their entire family has been. Umm, why are they at school?

Then of course you have to love the pastors who feel the need to include a meet and greet every service and encourage you to shake not A hand or hug A neck but several people around you! Can't we all have a understanding that a air high five will do just fine during this season??!!

I just love this time of year! When you are standing in line at Wal-Mart and you hear coughing and then feel a nice breeze at the base of your neck...ooooh that is just my fav!

Anyways, if you see me out and about send me a virtual hug LATER as for now I think I'd like to take out a no contact order on the general public. And please, if your child has been sick let them stay home and rest! Watch a church service online from somewhere or let them make up their work later from school and for crying out loud stay away from me!

I told you I loved this time of year!

Cleansed...not quite

2011-10-07T09:10:00.001-07:00

I am on Day 3 of my Complaining Cleanse. Somehow I am left to believe I have quite a ways to go until I am "cleansed". Wednesday we left for Ft. Myers (all four of us) in a rented Corolla (smaller than our Camry) and headed to Next Level Church where Mario spoke for the youth group. It was only about a three hour drive south. Not bad at all, huh?

I made a choice to put Cola in a diaper on the way because we didn't want to stop every 20 minutes for her to potty and she went crazy. I guess that's a good thing because she is totally taking this potty training thing to the level of perfection! I am so proud of her!

Anyways, she hadn't napped all day and would NOT fall asleep, neither would Dalen. I noticed a total of 5 billboards along the way advertising for Vasectomys. I am pretty darn convinced that's one of the most brilliant marketing strategies yet! Just put a family of 4 in a car waaaay too small with two children who haven't and won't nap and viola you will have patients stopping in everyday!

Anyways, the church was great and the team we met we amazing hosts. They all worked together so gracefully and flawlessly. After several days of no accidents Cola had one that night. It was disappointing to start the count over again but she is doing so well who can complain...NOT me!

On the way home we stopped by the beach and for lunch. We hadn't planned to do it but I am so glad we did. We caught Cola scooping up sand and eating it out of a shell and Dalen made huge balls of wet sand to peg at the birds. All the resting folks we quite entertained and I am sure annoyed. The kids let out some energy and slept most of the way home.

I am starting to realize I am slower to speak (you can ALL thank me later) when I am trying to eliminate complaining. I think more about what I am about to say before I say instead of having to deal with guilt after. It's still coming more natural to comlain rather than thank and I will be happy when that is the other way around!

Complaining Cleanse Day #1

2011-10-05T07:55:00.001-07:00

Um, who double dog dared me to do seven days without complaining? Oh, myself. Pardon me while I give myself a swift kick in the butt. Oh my gosh! I am the worst complainer - EVER! Now that I am paying attention to it I am just amazed. Not sure how I have a husband or friends for that matter.

And why did I have to choose to start on the day that I had to pack for three people and do countless loads of laundry? I started this cleanse on the day I realized the new polish color is gold and looks HORRIBLE against my skin. By noon I literally felt like it would be impossible to make it an entire day without allowing those complaining thought to escape my mouth. I did pretty well but lost a few of those thoughts through my big mouth.

When did this become such a habit for me?? And why didn't anyone tell me? Tell me how annoying it is? Tell me what a brat I sound like and how darn unattractive a whiner is?? So here's to day two...the day our whole family gets to take a short road trip down the road together, in a small car...but no, I am not complaining I am excited! The small the car, the thicker the bond, right?? ;)

7 Days

2011-10-04T08:51:00.000-07:00

This mornings was one of those mornings. I debated calling in sick and then I remembered I'm on call 24/7 and have no sick days. I woke up at 6:45 a.m. not by choice. No one said good morning, what can I bring you for breakfast, or why don't you sleep a few longer instead I got a moaning baby ready for breakfast and a griping toddler asking over and over if I had bought him a doughnut. Both kids followed me to the kitchen where I took an antibiotic (had an infected tooth extracted the other day) and then both moaning and complained when they realized I wasn't fixing breakfast yet. Good greif! I didn't even have my contacts in yet!

After kicking them both out of the bathroom because yes, I am entitled to pee in peace they lingered at the door waiting. When I opened the door and saw them both standing there with hungry bellies and begging eyes I began my day as I usually do, complaining. "You are both so impatient! Sit on the couch and stop following me! It won't make your breakfast come any quicker! The sun isn't even out yet! I am barely awake! Look at all of the toys you both left out yesterday!" And so on and so forth. Yes, I actually have days where I talk to my kids that way. I know. I am a horrible mother.

Something happened today though. I realized with their every complaint I had either proceeded with one or followed theirs with another. So annoying, SO unattractive and SO not the example I want to be to my daughter who will one day be a mother and I certainly don't want my son picking a complainer to mother his children. I was so seriously disgusted by how much I complained by 8 a.m. I got in a corner blasted P&W music from my laptop and googled what the Bible says about complaining. Not only was I convicted I was ready for deliverance! What a nasty habit to have! God gives us so much good yet all we mumble about is the bad.

During those 5 minutes even while asking for God's help I found myself complaining. I found myself praying for someone to cater to me while I deal with this awful tooth pain instead of asking and believing for healing. I began thanking God for healthy kids and then complaining about how loud they stomp and often they whine and obnoxiously they play. I really don't think that is thanks or praise at all. How meaningful is a compliment or thank you when someone follows it by a bunch of you shoulda, coulda, wouldas....NOT VERY!

So I am challenging myself to a seven day complaining cleanse. For every complaint I think or even say I will repent and then fill my mouth with thanksgiving and praise. After all we ALL have sooo much to be thankful for.

In spite of this horrible tooth pain, I am so thankful that I have been able to pack and do laundry for our overnight trip tomorrow night. I am also thankful for another opportunity to meet people and share the gospel with another group of young people. I am so thankful and grateful to God that right now I don't work and I am able to go with my husband when he travels so that we can keep our covenant we won't travel alone. Ah, that sounds so much more inviting!

Perfection.

2011-10-01T14:05:00.000-07:00

We woke up today with a perfectly sunny sky, slight breeze and cool temp. I was actually really surprised at how cold it was this morning. I think it was warning that even way down here in Orlando we may have another cold winter...I'm praying not! Anyways it was a perfect day for some outside play.

We took the kids out on their bikes and can I just say Dalen can FLY on his little tricycle! Cola, struggled peddling on hers and ended up in her stroller while Dalen finished out his ride. He loves going down the little ramp sidewalks at our apartment complex and turning down side streets and making it over those mountianous speed bumps. He is quite the rider!

We managed to spend an entire hour outside with Dalen just riding his bike and none of us broke a sweat (except for him). That's a miracle!

Cola has been potty training all week and has only had two accidents! I am soooo proud of her! She finally went #2 in the toilet which she was quite fearful to do. I must express how cute her little tush is in her Dora undies.

Dalen coaches her through going just like us. He has been reminded all over again that "she never growed a penis, yet" and I'm still trying to explain she never will and that's part of being a girl. Hasn't quite sunk in, but I guess it's just a matter of time.

I'm excited about this coming week-quick trip to Ft. Myers, new series in youth and I get to volunteer at Dalen's school for their "Apple Orchard" week. Busy but fun week!

The ultimate trainer

2011-09-29T07:40:00.000-07:00

Before you have children you never think of having to train an individual to go to bed and STAY there or sit in a chair, the right way. You probably don't think of having to teach your children that this is MY space while that over there is YOURS. Parenting has thrown me for some loops.

I didn't do so well at teaching my son boundaries and to play independently but I am doing a great job with C. I know there are many controversial arguments (which I don't understand) about blanket training but I started this with Cola the other day and it's working beautifully. I use it a couple times a day when I am working on laundry (she loves to unfold what I've JUST folded) or cooking in the kitchen with a hot stove (to prevent injury) or when I need some personal space.

I can't even count how many times I've sat at a table with other mothers and we all complain about how we haven't even showered in the bathroom alone in a month or used the restroom without an audience or how we can't even breath without a child right in our face. The longer I am a parent I realize those conversations reveal a lot about myself, others and the quality of control we have in our homes. The fact your kids are staring while you are peeing has nothing to do with them and everything to do with the lack of control you have over the situation.

I have learned this the hard way. Going to the restroom in private is not a privilege it is a RIGHT that I am now exercising every time I have to go. My children are not allowed in the restroom with me and blanket training has helped with this too. When my son is at school I leave Cola on the blanket with a few toys and tell her not to move. This assures me while I am in the bathroom for a few minutes she is with safe toys that will entertain her and that she knows her boundaries do not go beyond the borders of the blanket. This assures me she won't get into anything dangerous or get hurt.

Blanket training is such a great way to establish independence and boundaries and self-control. I use a pretty big blanket so my child will in no way see it as a form of punishment. The big blanket gives her plenty of space to play freely yet also have clear boundaries. Every child needs to learn independence and its tough. Of course some days there are tears and but for the most part my daughter does great at sitting and playing. And of course I get a lot done.

I have learned quickly that every time she has to spend some moments on the blanket I need to make sure and give her tons of praise and follow up the blanket time with face to face interaction. I can totally see this method backfiring if abused. You also to start with a few minutes and work your way up to a nice period of time that's age appropriate. For example I know better than to expect my 18 month old to sit for an hour but 15-20 minutes is totally doable.

Another area I now have complete control over is where my kids sleep. Cola was climbing out of her crib all night, every night. Now that she has a little toddler bed, if she gets out of it even if its 30 times a night (she's been close!) I take her straight back to her bed and say bedtime very sternly and leave. If she keeps getting up I take her right back. We are starting to see results with this too. Do I feel like getting up at 3 am to do this up a flight of stairs 20 times a night?? Absolutely not but I also don't feel like getting kicked a million times a night and thrown out of my OWN bed. Most of us parents aren't as helpless as we think we are just too lazy to show who is boss. And sometimes that means you have to get up 20 times a night and take your child back to bed. When you don't you might as well blow the party party horn and toss the confetti in honor of the control your child has just taken. Needless to say, the only time this house is gonna be seeing confetti is during a birthday!

Quitters.

2011-09-26T12:43:00.000-07:00

After enduring weeks of sleepless nights, due to our 18 month old climbing out of her crib every hour on the hour, we decided it was time to convert her crib into a little toddler bed. We knew it wouldn't solve the problem of her leaving her room countless times a night but we decided it would prevent possible injury.

We weren't surprised when she lasted only four minutes in her new big girl bed on the first night of sleeping in it. From about 8:30 p.m. to 11 we made about 12 trips upstairs to put her back where she belonged. For you that know me, 11 p.m. is (on most nights) passed my bedtime. Eventually, I drifted into a deep enough sleep to where she left her bed and staggered into ours and I didn't even feel it. No big deal, right?

I really hit me how many thoughts came into my mind to just leave her alone, let her come downstairs, who really cares. Eventually every child learns to sleep on their own and in their own space, right? Wrong! The root of the problem was wanting to quit - probably due to laziness and a little bit of fear of how my day would run without sleep the night before.

No one likes a quitter. Especially me! Sometimes we quit because of fear, other times because of laziness, many times because we are so insecure we think we can't finish. But persevering is an action I want a guilty sentence for. I love Hebrew 10:35-30. Basically, don't throw away your confidence, persevere and see God's promises come to pass. If you want to please God, don't shrink back!

Of course, this portion of scripture is talking about our walk of faith not putting your toddler to bed multiple times in a night but if we quit in the small things, we will quit in the big things.

My kids are watching-everything! I don't want them to watch a quitter. I want them to watch a woman of stamina, strength and endurance. So who wants to join my no quitting campaign?! Cheers to endurance and the finish line!

I Don't Know How She Does It

2011-09-25T00:39:00.000-07:00

This week I went to see I Don't Know How She Does It. I had been waiting for it to come out and I was so not disappointed. This humorous, sneak peek into every mother's reality, was not only encouraging but uplifting. Encouraging because I am constantly reassured that I am not the only mother on the planet who has mental lists and can't sleep at night until I've rehearsed them a million times and uplifting because you see a powerful woman find balance and clarity in what really matters most in life.

I took off from home Thursday afternoon, left my kids with their dad and unashamedly pulled my knees to my chest and hugged them there the entire movie. I was comfy in my jeans, t-shirt and TOMS. My hair was pulled back and my face bare. I was the perfect date for me! While I was gone I got occasional updates from Mario-one picture of Cola wearing kitchen gloves, another text to say he had successfully made dinner and Dalen thought his pasta was better than mine and another assuring me Cola wasn't feeling 100 % but she was still sweet as ever.

I watched that movie and laughed at so many scenes I have found myself in and ached with the character, Kate, at many of the heartbreaks all of us mothers experience from time to time. I watched a smart, intelligent, woman balance two kids an amazing career and marriage. Throughout the movie different characters say, "I don't know how you do it!" And the truth is most of don't. The movie even refers to Kate as a juggler and most of us are just that. Except my juggling typically looks like a circus act gone bad!

Through every scene there is a dim, yet silver lining piecing this woman's story together. It is the faint revelation for us all that we are all so blessed to have wonderful husbands who not only support us and our dreams but come along side of us to watch them unfold. I don't work right now and honestly I can't imagine working with two kids, without family close by to help out but even though I don't work I have still found myself saying I don't know how I do it. I watched that movie and by the end I knew exactly how I do it. I knew exactly how my heart heals so quickly from let downs and failed attempts to discipline according to the building of the character of my kids. I was certain I knew how I go to bed every night assured it was worth it and tomorrow will be conquered with a greater force than we used on today. I do it the same way Kate did it, with my husband by my side.

You may not understand the way we do things, you may not even like the way we do things, but we get them done-TOGETHER. I am now more assured than ever that there was such a divine plan for my life when I said I do and I am so glad I did. So, while I may not know how you do it, I am proud to say I know EXACTLY how I do it.

Cheers, to my critics!

2011-09-22T06:14:00.000-07:00

I really loved this quote in A Love That Multiplies that talks about critics:
"We can learn from our critics, either because what they're saying is true-or because of the way we respond when it isn't.
What a way to look at criticism! You can learn either way!

Lately, my mornings have been filled with my sweet girl nipping at my heels. Everywhere I go, she goes. She loves to be tickled, held and taught her body parts and songs with motions. I can hold her attention a lot long than I could with Dalen at her age. Some days it's amazing and others its quite demanding. But I am enjoying alone time with her four days out of my week.

This week feels like three in one! So much has happened! Dalen turned four, Cola is drinking from cups without lids, Mario brought down parts to her crib to convert it to a toddler bed and she's used the bathroom three times! Whew, what a week and it's only Thursday.

Fall is definitely in the air. We are waking up to chilly mornings in the mid 70s. It feels great. We often take Dalen to school and Mario to work with the windows down. This is Cola's favorite treat. She loves to stick a few fingers out the side of the cracked window. It's the small things...

THE Talk

2011-09-19T17:34:00.000-07:00

I am beginning to notice as parents, Mario and I will have many "talks". Talks that share tragedy to our children, talks that pertain to sharpening of ones character, talks that encourage one to behave better, talks that answer difficult questions...our life is one dramatic conversation after another separated by BIG events or small convictions letting us know change must take place.

Today was Dalen's birthday, he turned 4. I am so proud of him! It was his wish to play outside, ride his bike, cookout and eat by the pool. We then came inside and minutes later it began to downpour so Dalen himself cut his cake. It was then something happened. Something really BIG and literally nauseating.

I realized in that moment our family needed a talk. My son was cutting his THIRD birthday cake. Yes, he has had three different celebrations with extended family, friends and tonight, our immediate family. I became literally nauseous. As a parent, overindulgence is just as bad as neglect because you are indeed neglecting things like balance.

But I am so proud of our family. In that moment, that nauseating moment, we got together, got down on our knees, got a trash bag and began to clean out the toys. We explained with new toys coming in, the old (if you can even call them that) ones need to go to other people who have nothing. As we explained to Dalen what was happening the tears rolled and a tantrum took place but we kept doing what was right. Doing what is right isn't always comfortable but it is just that, right, and at the end of the day I don't want to be stalked by the shadow of my dark and lurking conscience. I want to be joyful in knowing I am pure in heart and that I have enabled my children to give in some kind of way.

I have repented for the three parties. Of course, readers may think its silly to be ashamed or convicted of the fact that I feel awful for three parties and too many gifts to place in our house. I don't feel guilty for blessings I feel convicted for greed and overindulgence. It will not have place in my home.

This year is the best birthday yet. On the day America has created for kids to receive more than they need, my son learned to give.

I would also like to express a friend in need as well. I have a friend who is moving to Cambodia early next year. She has to raise money to go and she needs my help and YOURS. None of us can do everything but we can all do something! All of our "little bit" turns out to be a lot.

I am honored to call Abby my friend. What a courageous woman of character and empathy and compassion! She is leaving her family, friends, home and JOB to give. Help her change the lives of others! You can send your monetary gifts to:
PLC 4235 TL Rogers St NE Cleveland, TN 37312

Also, please make sure to include her name, Abby Fletcher, in the memo line.

FOUR!

2011-09-18T18:00:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow Dalen turns four! Every time you hear a mom talk about her child's birthday you hear things like I can't believe he/she was born X years ago or my little boy/girl is growing up (with a tear in their eye). I really try not to grieve the aging of my kids. I am happy they are healthy and growing, learning and listening and going to school where Dalen loves being with other students.

Of course the older they get the less cute they are and more handsome they become and less innocent they are and more guilty you find them but I believe so much in the future of my kids that I get excited to see it getting closer. Of course, I will miss Dalen asking curious questions in his pure innocence or struggling to say certain words but I like moving forward not grieving the passing of yesterday.

We celebrated Dalen's b-day at Chuck E Cheese. Umm, someone remind me to never do that again on a Saturday afternoon! YIKES! There were times I just wasn't sure if we were at the zoo, juvenile detention center or circus! When I first arrived I looked around and saw several parents sitting at tables drinking beer and I thought why in the world would they serve beer at a children's play place?? Just spend two hours there....you will TOTALLY know why! Everytime the noise would surpass the level of believable I would look at one of the adults and say ANOTHER ROUND PLEASE! lol

Anyways, the kids had a blast, I wasn't responsible for any set up or clean up, the kids were well fed and entertained and they each got to take things home after exchanging their tickets for prizes. After a few kids tried to jump over the wall hiding Chuck E and begin punching him calling him stupid and big nose I was just about to phone Dr. Phil to psychoanalize the setting. I mean really?? Big nose? Stupid? Its a robotic rat! Give the machine a break!

I am proud to say Dalen and all of his party guests were terrific! They made me very proud! Happy Birthday Dalen!

The Life of Me

2011-09-15T13:25:00.001-07:00

Where do I begin?? Cola is climbing out of her crib every hour of the night, Dalen is loving school, Mario is working harder than ever and I'm still horrible at cleaning and thanking God for easy crock pot recipes that my family actually enjoys.

We just finished a trip to Tennessee to see our family and friends. Dalen had his first "sleepover" with his cousin and grandmother (and sister, kind of) and I have to mention my (teacher) mother had the night complete with picture guessing games, glow in the dark masks, bubble baths, and I will never forget when she brought out the 1980s CD player, covered in dust from the garage and played songs off of a CD call 50 Silly Songs. Can I just sum it up and say I was wishing it was more like 5 Silly Songs?? hahahaha Dalen must have been thinking the same thing because after about 1 1/2 songs he said, "Mom Mom can you PUH-LEASE turn that off its making me CRAZY?!"

My college roommate had her baby while I was home. I always love when friends have babies! I got to see so many friends and share a lot of laughs, hopes and MEALS. It was a phenomenal trip. Not too long, not too short. I was able to squeeze everything and everyone in. The kids also enjoyed a trip to Chuck E Cheese and a pre-birthday party to celebrate Dalen's 4th birthday (which is on the 19th).

Today Dalen learned no one lives forever and informed us his friend at school had a grandparent to die. I found myself very thankful again my kids have grandparents, super involved ones and that I still have 3 out of the 4 of mine-WHAT A RARITY, WHAT A BLESSING!

I'll never forget one moment I exchanged with my grandmother this trip. She asked me if I was ready to go home to Mario and I said, "YES! I haven't seen him in 5 days!" In no more than what seemed like I second I had calculated it had been over a thousand since she's seen my grandfather. So sad, but oh, so true. My husband and I do life together, sometimes travel apart, share laughs, exchange tears and fight until we are laughing again and in that moment I let my mind go far enough to think of what life could be without him. I concluded I would have no life in me. Right now, I find myself living, breathing, waking up everyday to make his dreams possible, my kids content and myself fulfilled. If they weren't here what would I be without them? It was really for the most part unimaginable!

I am not sure why I didn't think of the fact that I was flying home on 9/11 but I had a GREAT friend remind me :) Thanks A! lol
I arrived at the airport to an eerily quiet gate. It was a somber experience and I felt the need to not let me children off too far. We boarded the plane and after discovering my daughter colored all over the airplane window but I just held her tightly with my right arm and my left around my son. I am not an emotional person and it bothers me when people re-grieve losses every anniversary but 9/11 was very real to me on that plane. My son straddled my lap and fell fast asleep on my chest and my daughter straddled my knees and slept on his back. I was drenched in sweat and contemplated asking for a refund for the seat my son never even used. :)

I find myself reflecting more, appreciating the greater things in life and pondering memories on a deeper scale because tomorrow it's the only tangible thing we will have left of today. And I am teary at this point of this blog because I never thought that I could have so little and I feel like I have so much-two great parents, a husband I would NEVER trade or wish away, the prettiest kids in the world, two rockstar sissies and loyal friends I love so much.

What is the life of you??

Wonderfully Awkward

2011-09-03T18:49:00.000-07:00

Tonight we went to a surprise birthday party for another youth pastor in town Mario met when we first moved here. He and his wife have become friends of ours and the kids had a great time teaming up with their 3 kids and playing and eating like crazy!

But of course being at a party brings all different people who are not connected but come together for one person or celebratory event. You get people from all walks of life, singles, parents, newlyweds, grandparents...it's a melting pot for sure. I'm getting better at these scenes since I have been thrust into many this last year but it still doesn't take away those awkwardly moments that can't be avoided.

Like that awkward moment where a young woman, holding her oh-so-tiny newborn in a sling, tells you how well nursing is going and then you see her pile her plate high with pepper jack cheese and hot wings and think yeah that "well" is about to turn to HORRID! And you have that awkward moment do I inform her that's really going to upset her baby's tummy or do I just let it go in fear of a post pregnancy hormonal outburst that she indeed knows what she is doing??

Or what about that awkward moment where you are in a circle with three or four moms who begin telling their kids names who just happen to all be Biblical names and they start talking about how they prayed about the names they chose and then there is that awkward moment of silence and all heads turn to me for me, the pastor's wife, to confess my daughter's name is Cola and I picked it b-c I liked it, HA! You know when you watch movies and you hear the crickets in a very strange moment?? That really happens!

And of course where could we go with Dalen in tow where he doesn't punch, kick, or hold another kid hostage or break something?? Then there is always that awkward moment of offering to pay for the item praying you won't have to take out a loan to afford to replace it! I have to confess sometimes you just want to tell the other parent the endless whining of your child and never ending pestering deserved that punch right in the gut but of course I refrain and make my son "do the right thing" and apologize. KIDDING! (kind of)

I'm just being honest, I have a lot of under the breath moments where I mumble my thoughts under my breath to my husband and he gets totally annoyed and occasionally mortified that yes, he married the woman who is totally brave enough to walk off from someone who is nosey enough to ask how much we make. My favorite is when people we meet offer to babysit our kids or take our kids somewhere in the first five minutes of conversation I LOVE taking that small sip of water and holding the bottle JUST long enough in front of my mouth to shield a quiet "in your dreams".

Oh, the places we go and people we meet.

New Recipe Anxiety

2011-09-01T08:43:00.000-07:00

I must confess I have made so many alterations to my diet and consumption of food in the last year I think I am not even aware of all I have done. My weight loss journey is something I was openly talking and blogging about because so many people would ask questions (how are you losing it? how much more do you need to lose? how much have you lost? what is your weight? what was your biggest weigh in?) but honestly I got so tired of people thinking they needed to advise me on my intake of food I stopped blogging and talking about it.

Of course when I would share my changes to my diet or how I maintained self-control others would so condemingly tell me some of the choices I was making were "obssessive" or unhealthy. Not trying to turn diet talk and lifestyle changes spiritual but the only way I can explain it is that people are constantly trying to invade my life with their PERSONAL convictions by defining them as sound doctrine. I'm sorry, but I'm just not interested. If you don't like that at one point I didn't keep two weeks of groceries in my house to avoid overeating keep your opinions to yourself. Just because you aren't comfortable with my choices doesn't mean the choice isn't right and beneficial for myself.

Anyways, with Dalen starting school I have now begun grocery shopping for a week at a time. I buy all his lunch items and dinner meals for the week typically on Saturday. I am pleased to say that I have done VERY well with not over eating and it's helped me select better items for Dalen's lunches as well. Anyone heard of Granola Thins? YUM! They are thin squares of granola and the back of then are coated in peanut butter, caramel or chocolate. Did I mention they are only 80 calories? And did I mention Dalen loves them?? I have substituted Oreos with these and substituted ritz crackers with cheese with wheat thins and sometimes I will put Nutella on them.

I am also proud to say I have eased salads in my diet (which I have never been a fan of) and I am trying to ease fish into my diet as well! I am not sure how I will EVER conquer that constant desire to feel so full but I am trying. Salads and fish are so lite that it is helping me eat these things as opposed to heavy and greasy food items such as fried chicken. I also, now have a scale in my house and weigh myself once a day to keep tabs on maintaining what I have lost. I really felt like losing the weight would be the hardest but maintaining the loss has definately been hardest. It's the ultimate test to see whether you have done a diet versus a life change.

Has anyone heard of the all natural hCG diet? I heard of it about 2 years ago from a friend whose sisters in law and mother in law lost tons of weight but never tried it. You supposedly take all natural drops of a hormone that helps curb appetite. You consume only 500 calories a day while your body feeds off of fats you already have present in your body and maintain a feeling of fullness because technically your body is eating off of fats. It sounds really intersting if anyone has info on this diet let me know.

I have done an amazing job cooking EVERY night. I am in constant search of new recipes for the crock pot and trying new things. I have to confess every time I make something new I get new recipe anxiety. I stand over the crock pot wondering if it's going to be a success or fail. Luckily of all of the recipes I have tried only one has been horrible. Here has been an amazingly easy and yummy recipe I tried a few weeks ago.

4-5 lb pot roast
1 packet of dry italian dressing
1 packet of dry ranch dressing
1 packet of dry brown gravy
1 cup of water

mix dressings and gravy together in a bowl then pour water in it. place pot roast in crock pot and pour mixture around and on top of roast. let cook for 6-8 hours and add potatoes and carrots if you want. I usually end up adding an additional 1/2 cup of water throughout the day to keep the roast from getting dry.

Happy cooking!

Update!

2011-08-25T19:10:00.000-07:00

Wow, how do I let myself go so long without blogging? Here is what is going on with the Hoods...

-Dalen started school this week. He LOVES it! He has already learned to swing without being pushed and we've been told we should have named him Justice b-c he demands it! Sounds right to me.

-Cola is climbing out of her crib....EVERY night. She goes and wakes Dalen up and then they come down and wake us up. Ugh, another phase...at least we are hoping.

-Borders Bookstore is going out of business. All books are 40-60% off. I just finished Bristol Palin's book and now I am reading Jim Bob & Michelle Duggar's book, A Love That Multiplies. I takes a lot not to go back everyday and splurge on more books.

-Cola has pink eye. Needless to say everyone in our home has been washing their hands about 30 times a day.

-We are still house hunting. Finger crossed and many prayers prayed for that chapter to soon close.

-Mario and I had one date night to go see The Help. Umm, seriously do NOT miss this must see!

-Dalen is going to be 4 next month! I can't believe it! Still deciding what to do for his b-day!

-I have heard of 3 couples I know who are expecting twins! Yikes, I so hope it's not in the water! I also recently read an article that said the rate for twins is at an all time high. Interesting....

Proud

2011-08-08T11:47:00.001-07:00

I just finished Raising Children by Jane Evans. I am still reading Brining Up Boys and because parenting is constantly calling my name these books are showing me multiple opportunities to correct, praise, love, nurture, comfort and discipline my little ones.

I have had two VERY good days with my son. I don't think it's him that has changed a bit I think it has been my disciplining skills, patience and boldness to not back down.

I must share this morning's moment that had me oh so proud! By 9 a.m. I had been to the grocery store, put a roast in the slow cooker (pray it turns out!), arranged fresh flowers on the table and fed the kids breakfast. I realized rather quickly that our little lady would barely touch her breakfast. Something MUST be terribly wrong. This kid eats more than me!

Her head hung low, her eyes were heavy and yep, she had a fever. Don't you hate it!? This is such a difficult age for a kid to have a fever! Because they can't tell you the other symptoms. Mario and I stood over her as she laid very still on the couch and I felt a little hand grab mine. It was Dalen. She very confidently said, "Let's pray about this!" Mario and I agreed and led the prayer. I can't remember it all but I do remember he started the prayer off with thanks and ended with thanks. Right in the middle of his prayer about "making bad pain go gone" he burped louder than he ever has! Immediately, my eyes opened wide and met with Mario's. We struggled not to laugh and Dalen didn't miss a word.

It was one of those moments where he totally didn't mean burp it just came out. I was very proud of us for not stopping the prayer and correcting him when he obviously didn't mean to do it. I am proud he knows who to call on when someone is sick. I am proud he starts with thanks, because we do indeed have SOOOO much to be thankful for. I am proud he cares for his sister.

I recommend...

2011-08-06T18:11:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago our church had Pastors Ashley and Jane Evans from Adelaide, Australia in for a Sunday morning service. Pastor Ashley preached and I quickly noticed his pretty wife and eight year old son in tow. They pastor a thriving church in South Australia called Paradise Community Church.

After a powerful message delivered by Pastor Ashley and a short word given from his wife we had the privilege of having lunch with them along with some of our other staff members. I was seated by Jane and her charming and inviting accent made it rather easy to talk to her. I learned quickly she was real, down to earth and must love people. After seeing her converse with her son (who was so well behaved you wouldn't believe it!) a few times I concluded if I could be like any mom let me be like her. She was so calm, respectful and knew her son's character so well. She knew just how to respond to him, encourage him and stay patient with him.

About a week ago I found a gift wrapped in white wrapping paper (love that) tied with a black bow and a card underneath on my husband's desk. It was for me. I opened it and it was a copy of her book (which I didn't even know she had written) called Raising Children Without Going Insane. I totally recommend this book for any parent or person who works closely with parents.

Not only is it full of transparent struggles as a mom of three boys it is an encouraging read with highlights of many of their victorious triumphs. She addresses some difficult topics such as; disciplining, parenting the strong willed child (you better believe I did some underlining in that chapter!), seeing the gifts in your children placed there by God and so many more.

It's really amazing how God is using so many books on parenting to help me along in this journey called motherhood. I hope this book may help some of you too!

2011-08-05T00:22:00.000-07:00

I usually begin to write a blog after establishing some points or highlights of the kids but not tonight. Maybe because it's 3:23 a.m. or maybe just because there really isn't a point to this blog. I haven't blogged in a while and I hate when I go without. Life this summer has been fantastic! A lot of traveling, planning, and doing ministry with my husband (my favorite!). Now that things have slowed down I am not quite sure what to do with myself.

Everytime I log onto my blog I realize the less and less people are blogging and it makes me so very sad. I love blogs. I love reading about the experience of motherhood through another woman's world and being included in a movie or book review and trying new food someone recommended via blog. I think it's only a short period of time before blogging is a memory and no longer the "it" thing.

I am still reading Bringing Up Boys. I took several weeks off due to VBS and our first youth conference. I still haven't finished Love Wins either. I know I am terrible! Things have been really busy.

There is a lot of talk about a possible tropical storm heading our way. I think her name is Emily?? Don't you hate that?? They take the most innocent, well known, Ms. Pretty Put Together names and mark them to a horrible, destructive, life changing for some storm! When I think of the name Emily I think of a little girl who looks like Mary off of Little House On The Prairie-blond haired, blue eyed, perfect smile, overly sensitive, who in the world could hurt her girl. Oh well, it is what is. I asked some fellow Florideans if they are nervous about the storm talk and they seemed to not even be phased. So I guess if they aren't imagining palm trees whizzing by their windows I shouldn't be either??

Cola has finally hit that stage. She is into EVERYTHING! This morning she managed to eat half a crayon (purple), spray tons of my perfume all over herself (thank goodness I love the smell of Vanilla and Jasmine) AND get the top off of my red nail polish and paint half of her top lip red. This was all in ONE morning. She is starting to stand her ground more everyday, she hits like a boy and I must admit she is pretty fast. I love that when she runs it's like 1/2 gallop and 1/2 prance with an extra spring in her step. She also appears to be scooping air out of her way and pushing it behind her. So cute and funny.

Dalen is quite the big brother. Although they fight on and off all day there is usually at least one moment everyday where I see him comfort her, hold her, kiss her or something of that melt your heart to pieces sort. He has managed to get her out of her crib a few times now. I'm not sure how he does it and I think it's best for my heart I don't know or haven't seen. She has never even cried though so I guess it's not too physically painful.

I guess that's all for this one...

Withdrawls.

2011-07-19T10:10:00.000-07:00

Have you ever learned a lesson (possibly more than once) and then more you learn the deeper the wound and the harder to cope? I have really opened myself to be teachable in the last few years of my life. The more I learn, the more I realize I have a long way until I can call myself wise.

As I learn lessons, some painful, others intriguing, and all victorious, I have seen a strength in my character. If I learn a lesson pertaining to motherhood, I try to learn and get back in the same game, situation, circumstance and do it better the next time. I learning that isn't always a strength but rather a weakness at times.

Sometimes the best method to life is to withdraw. Withdrawing isn't a form of laziness but many times it is a strategy of the wise, to back up, reflect, heal and then try again in the right timing. Other times I am certain we should go through no situation twice! But I am learning when a lesson is too painful and damaging to my emotional state and character my best bet is to withdraw. Never mentally but physically.

When you withdraw physically your heart is out of reach but your mind continues to process and healing can take place. There are those places I want to go, people I want to befriend, dreams I want to see come to pass but I am learning thrusting myself into circles and places can be permanently damaging.

Distance can always do a mind good.

27

2011-07-15T06:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my birthday. I turned 27 and I've already established that 27 is entirely too close to 30 and waaaay to far from 20! I had a great day. Dalen went to off to VBS which left just Cola and I to have the morning to ourselves.

The night before my birthday Dalen came home with Mario with a bouquet of flowers and a singing Shrek card. After sniffing the flowers he faked sneezed several times and then announced the flowers were for "my wedding". HA!

So birthdays should be more about time with family and friends and they are for me but I have to mention I got some AMAZING cards and gifts this year! My mailbox was overflowing (literally) with cards (one of my fav. things in the world) in perfect time for my big day. You can always tell when people spend time picking out the perfect card for you and I can say my friends and family do that really well!

In addition to a dinner at my favorite restaraunt (Bahama Breeze) and some fantastic cards I got a Marshall's gift card (one of my fav. places to shop), a Starbucks gift card, a pair of LOVELY earrings brought from Cambodia from my dear friend A, flowers, a brand new pair of TOMS (sooo excited to wear them) and money! I felt totally spoiled!

Needless to say it was a fabulous day and I can't wait for my 27th year of life!

B.U.B.

2011-07-13T06:37:00.000-07:00

I didn't realize reading Bringing Up Boys (BUB) would take me on such a deep journey. It's been educational as well as convicting and at times emotional. Here are some of the things I have learned so far.

Some of these lines are direct quotes others are paraphrased.

Boys do not respond to subtle hints but they need requests clearly outlined. (Isn't that the truth even with grown men?!)

Boys are slower to learn from calamities while girls are more fearful and try not to make painful mistakes twice.

Mothers and fathers play defense to protect their boys from immoral and dangerous enticements but parents have to also play offense by instilling in their sons the antecedents of character.

If we don't know who we are our kids will be doubly confused about who they are.

The individual temperaments of men and women were designed to moderate each other.

A child who lives in fear is unable to learn.

I have also learned not to supress the excitable and aggressive nature in my son but we must learn to shape and civilize it. The need to take risks, be aggressive, experience change, protect and provide are all a part of divine plans God had for males. While many of those qualities can be scary for parents and aggervating at times it's important we correct these behaviors in a way that is shaping not eliminating. WOW! As a mother of a child who has already broken a bone I am very guilty of becoming very protective and corrective when Dalen gets too wild, or jumps off things too high.

I would def. recommend this book!

Bringing Up Boys

2011-07-09T17:16:00.000-07:00

Have you ever read it? Bringing Up Boys by James Dobson? It was brought to my attention a few weeks ago after mentioning a few challenging surprises I am dealing with concerning Dalen. I ordered it on Half.com and it was patiently waiting for me in my mailbox today.

Although, I had heard of the book and class a long time ago I never read it or attended the class but I am excited to read some interesting and challenging concepts of raising my boy to be a well rounded man.

I am not sure it was my naivety or the fact I come from an entire family of girls (literally, even our family pet was female) that make me feel so lost when dealing with my son but I can honestly say there have been some pretty distinct challenges for us lately.

I guess I was more hesitant about my girl because girls are the dramatic, hormonal, moody, needy, co-dependent, more expensive and high maintenance ones, right? Without going into explicit detail I have been blindsided. I thought the most concern I would ever have for my son is teaching him farting in public was ilmannered and that you must wear clothes around your sister and that jumping out of trees calls for expensive co-pays due to fractured arms or worse.

I got this book because obviously I have been so wrong, unprepared and a little confused at times. Are any of you surprised at gender differences? Have any of you read the book? Any tips?

An Insider of an outsiders trial

2011-07-07T06:41:00.000-07:00

I haven't previously blogged about the Anthony trial because the nature of this case is so hostile and emotionally involved for everyone. I almost feel like an insider because this trial has occurred in Orlando, where I reside. For all of the outsiders reading this, you would NOT believe the affect this trial has had on our community.

Here are a few ways in which Orlando has been affected:

-Over 150 officers were dispatched on the day of the verdict to keep control of the crowd at the courthouse, patrol the Anthony's neighborhood and the scene where the remains were found and to protect the attorneys and jurors.
-There have been a number of arrests outside of the courthouse and inside due to fights over tickets into the courtroom and for contempt of court.
-The state of Floridahas spent 100s of thousands of dollars on this trial.
-All local television channels such as 3, 6, 9, 12, 13 and others have covered this trial for over a month preventing normal shows from airing.
-This is peak season for tourism here in Orlando and there are literally people from all over the world who chose to visit Orlando JUST to stand outside of the courthouse, visit the site where Caylee was found and to snap a shot of the Anthony's home.

Needless to say it has been crazy! Some of the sign I have seen outside of the courthouse read....
-Justice for Caylee
-Jury-Guilty NO BALLS! (classy, huh?)
-Casey+muder=HELL
-Let God be the judge!
-Arrest the jury! Multiple counts of cowardly conduct!
-Baby Killer!

Because the nature of this case is more hostile than you could ever imagine I will not share my thoughts on the verdict. I will give you some things to think on...

-Should George and Cindy take money for interviews or book deals concerning this case? Keep in mind they have not been able to hold a job due to court.
-What does it say about Vivid Entertainment (a porn company)who offered Casey a deal after the verdit? (they then retracted after their fans were outraged)
-How will Casey Anthony ever lead a life of normalcy again? How will she get a job? Where will she live? Will her family accept her again? Are her friends still her friends?
-What should be counted as REAL evidence?
-Does protesting help? If so, how?

Lots to think about!

The 4th

2011-07-03T19:30:00.000-07:00

Have I ever mentioned that the 4th of July is my favorite holiday? Of course I am proud to be an American but is it horrible to admit that the fireworks really make it my favorite? I have to mention the Southern in me that just can't help but get dreamy eyes and wide smiles over the thought of sweet tea and potato salad, poolside, with the ones you love. I LOVE the fourth! I love the summer feel in the air, the unity that is so strong amongst us all....I love it! One confession I have to make is that I have never spent a fourth anywhere but in the South (that I can remember). I am kind of wondering if it's any different in other parts of the states.

Well, on to funnier things. I have thought a lot on my trips I was able to take this summer and I keep thinking of the HILARIOUS one liners that came about either from myself or others. Here they are...feel FREE (in observance of the 4th) to laugh away!

-My husband on a very strange looking individual in South Beach.
What was that? A man with dodgeball sized implants??

-Me on being adventerous, then I realized others at the table (who weren't my friends) were listening.
Everything's worth trying once, except for Meth.

-My friend on the effects of cat naps. *Imagine in the most Southern accent ever imagined.
If I take a cat nap, I will be ill as a hornet.

-After seeing pics of Wyoming.
If God ever called me to Wyoming I'm pretty sure I'd fake deaf.
My husband's response-And I'm pretty sure He would know!

Thoughts

2011-07-02T16:50:00.001-07:00

I don't have enough related thoughts to write a complete blog but I have many unrelated thoughts I would like to share.

Things I don't have but wish I did have...
-a pair of Toms. Any color would do.
-after 5 years of the same phone I think I am ready for a smart phone.
-more time and money to travel with my husband and friends.
-a reason to throw a party.
-a huge bowl of triple chocolate gelato.
-a personal charm bracelet with charms that really mean something

Things I need to take care of but haven't due to time or finances or laziness...
-I REALLY need to go to the dentist.
-I need to decide what to do with my kids clothes. Storage or give away?
-send cards to friends and family. I haven't sent any in like two weeks!
-organize my kids photos/schedule a family photo shoot
-schedule my daughters next shots
-order new books from ebay (any hand-me-downs or suggestions would be appreciated!)

Things I am curious about and would LOVE to try and do...
-soap making. There's a place not far from us that does classes, I really want to do it!
-make a piece of pottery
-I really want totry to find a good author who is on book tour and coming our way. Why did Jim Bob and Michelle only do Northern states on theirs??
-visit a new bed and breakfast this year

This isn't interesting but what things are on your mind??

Methods of a Mindful Mother

2011-06-27T11:56:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, was somewhat of a tailspin. Sundays are especially hectic and stressful. You need laying on of hands before you are ever out of the door, especially when there are four of you to bathe, dress, feed and (many of you won't understand this) fix hair. Trust me afros and curls take a lot of taming!

Since my son's birth I feel like I have been sprinting to a finish line that doesn't exist. I've been on the track of motherhood which isn't a competition and I haven't allowed myself to slow down and enjoy my kids enough. I've been sprinting through our days as a family trying every method, soaking in every word of advice and listening to all the critics give me less than a perfect 10.

Yesterday morning was one of those days. You wake up feeling defeated before you ever attempt to fight to make it out the door. One of my children was having a particularly difficult morning. They didn't want to go to nursery, didn't want to sit in service, didn't want their mom and once they had their dad he didn't do the trick either. Somedays your children just have to do what they have to do. They can't have their way everyday. However, as an adult I can attest sometimes we just don't feel like doing certain things and there can be a plethera of reasons why-illness, fear, anxiety, hestitation, exhaustion, and then sometimes we are just plain lazy and stubborn.

Every child is different! There is no one method or remedy, no magic in a wand only a prayer in my mouth always that I will choose the right thing to do. Just when I think I have decoded how to deal with my children the method fails me and I am on to the next. I learned yesterday I need to do a lot less trying and a lot more praying.

I am tired of wondering what Mother Hen or Mother Goose (you get the point) would do with my children. If they had the answer my children would have hatched from their eggs not birthed from my womb. God entrusted me with my children for a reason and I think it's because I have EXACTLY what I need to raise well balanced adults.

So walk in confidence that you too have whatever it takes to raise a great kid, succeed a prosperous business or teach a class of capable individuals....whereever you are in life God is equipping you. Stop trying and start praying!

Home Again.

2011-06-23T17:32:00.000-07:00

The worst thing about abandoning your blog is you never know where to start and therefore it's so hard to end. I have been to three different states and Miami in the last month. While it has been so exciting, fun and memorable its also been eventful, exhausting and slightly stressful.

I could so get used to traveling on a regular basis. I love being in new places, room service and getting out of the daily routine for a bit. Let's start with Tennessee....

Tennessee-We went to a close friend's wedding and were able to see very close friends we haven't seen in a long time. Always nice to catch up and see another couple say i do.

New York- We went to a youth conference. WOW! They are doing awesome things up north! I mean AWESOME! We didn't hesitate to take advantage of a few tourist visits either including Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Rockefeller, Macy's, Madison Square Gardens and many more.

Miami-We went to another youth conference and took along our youth group. 28 in all! WOW! South Beach is not the place to be when you are liable for other lives. It's dangerous, lively and wild. We we offered illegal drugs several times, our kids saw a man pull a knife on another man, and they were chased by a homeless man shaking his change cup at them. Yikes! All in all God did his thing....as he always does.

Alabama-Another wedding! I just have to state driving from Orlando to ALabama is the absolute worst drive you could ever imagine. A lot of it is two laned roads surrounded by cow pastures. I have yet to go to a city in Alabama I like. But anyways I got to see college friends and of course we had an absolute BLAST!
Brittany's big day!

LOST on the subway

Rockefeller

Ok so pretty!

There is the minimal details of my life in the last month. Now I can continue on like I was never gone??

Studious

2011-06-09T17:44:00.000-07:00

These pics were just taken this past Tuesday after church and I feel like they look studious so it works perfectly with this blog. This post is all about the student in me and hopefully in you as well. Because life is full of lessons when we choose not to learn, we choose not to grow.

When I said, "I do" my husband and I held a prayer in our hearts that we would always be teachable. It takes humility, which is the ultimate pride-killer, it takes admitting I am wrong and never boasting when I am right because just when you boast about your "rightness" there is something hiding around the corner you didn't really know in it's fullness.

God has really answered our prayer. He sent us two kids who I swear have taught me more than I have taught them.

So here is what I have learned about learning. Is there such a thing?

You must always study God's word as a student, even if you are a teacher. When you study as a student you are open to learning something new. Don't be intimated to learn new things or see things differently or to challenge your existing beliefs. This leaves room for new revelation.

I am learning sooo much about conflict. How to deal with it, how to detect it without someone saying there is a problem and most importantly when to walk away. I've learned that when you are confronting conflict to not say a word unless you KNOW, assuming will get you in big BIG trouble. It maximizes the problem and produces even more problems but when you know the resolution is maximized.

Most importantly when you are dealing with spiritual warfare don't expend your energy conflicting with others around you, you are a fighting a battle that was won a long time ago. End result-WE WIN-EVERY TIME.

Today is absolutely useless if I haven't learned. Learning prepares me for tomorrow and prevents me from running in a vicious circle of repetitive mistakes.

Sometimes you can't learn without admitting you were wrong. Listen, I make mistakes everyday and I hate admitting them but when I do I'm coming clean that there is something left for me to learn. I don't know the god of second chances but I know THE God of a million chances rather well. God's grace is rather apparent when we learn.

Summer

2011-05-18T05:35:00.001-07:00

I am not totally sure it is calendar official, but it is smelling like, feeling like, looking like summer! All I can think of is the pool, lemonade, bright nights and of course traveling. We have literally been at the pool every chance we can and my kids have already gone from honey skin tones to cinnamon skin tones. Cola's little curls are already looking blonde at the ends!

We just attended one baby shower for my cousin and will attend another soon for her sister! The picture above is Cola at the shower. She loved the balloons! We are going to a wedding in Cleveland this weekend and I can't wait to be reunited with one of my very favorite families I haven't seen in a long time. I also get to see my family and hopefully a few friends.

I have about 6 invitations on our fridge for weddings or showers and I don't know what it is but it makes me happy. Although I can't attend all of them it excites me to see so many people starting their lives together or sharing it with a little one! Cleveland this week, NY next week! My heart is so excited I can't seem to slow down. Pics and updates to come sooN!

So fresh and clean

2011-05-11T10:14:00.000-07:00

Laundry.

It's one of those words I could type and press publish and it could tell an entire story, explain my mood better than any adjective and be one of the most relatable blogs I've ever written.

There are heaping mounds of it everywhere. Once the dirty pile is diminishing the clean pile begins to build an empire in need of sorting and folding and once they are sorted and folded then they have to be put away or hung up. And once all of that is done somehow the dirty pile has already dominated it's little (or in our case rather large) corner.

I found myself standing over the washer watching the water spiral down over a hefty load of colored clothes and I begin to think, "How can I make laundry stop or at least not do it so often??" I realized I'd have to move to a nudist colony to eliminate it completely. Totally, out of the question.

Maybe it's laziness or maybe I'm starting to realize it doesn't really matter, but when my son insists he wants to run around in his undies I no longer argue. I immediately exhale and think that's one less shirt and pair of shorts I have to wash, fold and put away! And don't you just love summer!? The season where socks are totally forgotten! Bring out the flip flops!

And then of course there are the entire days by the pool where you only use your bathing suit a towel and pajamas after you shower. So maybe I should just move somewhere where it's summer all the time!

Gotta love the cute sundresses with the built in bras. Any dress line that makes built in panties? Could you imagine everything you need all in one peice of clothing!? That would be amazing!

And I'm hoping only moms are reading this because they are the only ones that would understand going to those desperate measures just to illiminate some of the laundry!

One Year

2011-05-07T05:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day! As we celebrate Mother's Day in our home we are also celebrating the close of one year in Florida. As hard as it's been living in an apartment as a family of four, driving one car, having to always pay a babysitter and being so far from friends and family I do feel I can exhale and say we did it. I'm not sure what we've done or even done well but we are still here, making everything work.

I don't give myself enough credit and I am sure I am not alone in that confession. Looking back over the last year I think I may have had like two people tell me they are proud of us. I surely could have heard that more but I didn't. So to all of the mother's who sacrifice SO much everyday JUST holding down the house you are loved, appreciated and you are doing a great job! And for those mother's who hold down the house AND work you are stronger than me! Keep doing what you are doing, someday the reward will be great. At least that is what I tell myself.

Do you ever feel like, the older you get the less affirmed you are? Sometimes I feel like the older I have gotten the more affirmation I need. Just in case I am not alone in that confession either...God is proud of the work we do as mothers. If no one else tells you throughout the next year I'm proud to be a mother because I get to share the title with so many amazing women just like you. Together we can rear some amazing children, share great recipes and always give heads up on coupon savings!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

The art of distraction

2011-05-04T10:39:00.001-07:00

Cola is in this very stressful phase. She's biting, hates wearing a diaper and a few days ago (if you can believe it or not) I found her two shelves high on our built in bookshelves on the wall. She is beginning to very loudly and boldly express frustration without talking rather screaming, crying and more biting.

Dalen is in the fighting stage....still. Last week the nursery had a talk to me about Cola biting and this week I got the "your son thinks it's ok to hit other children" speech. How embarrassing.

These problems are not one time occurances they are phases that will last and last and then be over. Today was not the day for them to end so I thought we need a nice, fun distraction. I came across this bubble blower and it literally blows TONS of bubbles at once. We let it blow until it ran out. It was a nice distraction for a bit.
Somedays I think it's better to distract yourself when you don't know what to do. I can't make these unfortunate behaviors disappear but I feel as though somedays I allow my frustration entertain them. I have to get better at that.

During the bubble time there was no hitting or biting. A lot of laughter and fun swats at the bubbles whizzing by. If you don't have one I'd suggest one. They are lots of fun!

Processed

2011-05-03T05:16:00.001-07:00

Wow, what a week for our nation. Devastating storms, families left with nothing and the death of Bin Laden. To be honest I feel as though my brain is in a current state of processed mush. I haven't even seen the devastation in person but the pictures and stories are enough. My heart is moved and my mind just can't fathom what these vicious storms did to my hometown and so many other places as well.

I have to say loud and proud, I have some AMAZING friends and churches and family members back home who have literally volunteered day in and day out. I must be very clear I know Heaven is moved when we comfort those who have lost, feed those who are hungry and clothe those who are naked. To any volunteers reading, you are great examples of Christ. Bless you all.

I woke up to the news about the death of Bin Laden and I quickly learned why people say I don't talk about politics. Wow, I couldn't believe the anger felt by some and the victory by others. Such extreme spectrums! I will say this, when I saw hundreds gathered at ground zero at midnight saying the pledge and waving American flags I literally got chills and pride rose within me. Do I celebrate death, no. Do I celebrate justice, OF COURSE! And sometimes justice involves fatalities.

I do not like some of the things I have heard said by Christians and non Christians. I don't like when people say we should have grace towards Bin Laden, as if we didn't. HELLO???? I think him dying a very short death compared to the suffering many of our American citizens endured and are still enduring is VERY GRACIOUS. I will say this grace and justice can coexsist and it did on that day.

I also don't like when Christians exaggerate to make a point. If you have to exaggerate scripture to make a point you don't have a point at all. Then there are the Christians who ranted we aren't the ones who should judge Ben Laden's punishment but then they turn right around and predict because of American officials he is in Hell. I think that's judgement. How do any of us know he didn't come to senses and breath one last prayer?

And of course we have all heard of the argument, it was sheer ignorance to take this man's life because now we will endure more attacks and terrorism will never end. So, we should just let any country cross our borders and do whatever they darn well please with no consequences???? I don't think so. We rejoice when a rapist is sentenced, not because the sentencing of one individual will stop rape but because justice has been done and the victim can live somewhat in peace. How is this any different?

I think Stephen Furtick said it best, "I unapologetically celebrate multitudes of people who will live because of the death of one man. That is good-THAT is victory."

I AM proud to be an American.

The Coward In Me....

2011-05-01T09:37:00.000-07:00

I think I mentioned last weekend was awesome at our church. Partly because it was Easter and when you are celebrating a resurrected Christ it hold a very intense celebratory atmosphere and partly because of the production that was done and all of the souls that were moved towards Heaven because of it.

We were challenged to invite 5 people to one of the 4 services our church had scheduled. I had my 5 people which I thought were going to be a challenge for me and then I realized as a stay at home mom I encounter more people than the average working person does because I am out and about.

We had super cool invite cards (which my husband designed, I had to throw that in :)) and one particular day we set out to do our inviting. I became really insecure once I realized 3 out of the 5 people we were inviting weren't connections I had made but connections my three year old had made. He meets people everywhere we go and invites them to our church and sometimes to our house (hence the reason I will NOT teach him our address). I really felt like such a coward.

My three year old, who is just learning the REAL facts of the Crucifixion story was doing more of the connecting with possible lost souls than I had been. In fact, before I could say anything to two of the people he had handed them the cards and invited them. Wow, my son, a three year old, missionary to the mall. Seriously, who was I kidding!? I am a youth pastor's wife, called to ministry myself and I was a little hesitant about inviting 5 people to service.

I really had to talk to God about that. Of course God wants all of us to do witnessing, we are ALL called share the good news, that's the GREAT commission. But I really saw for once in my life that my son knew what to say and how to invite and what details to give because I had once gave them to him. I really felt encouraged when I went back a few months ago in my mind to the Sunday where I bent down to ask Dalen if he wanted to ask Jesus in his heart and he said, "Mom he already lives there." I'm not sure who walked him through that prayer and who beat me to leading him in it but chances are it was someone in our church and he wouldn't have been there if it weren't for me!

Ministry has to take place in our home first! And now, because three out of the four of us are saved God has really shown me that we are a team effort. Dalen may do the talking, but I am going to do the interceding while he does it and I am also going to do the driving to the person he talks to. Of course, this doesn't let me off the hook! I know there will be times I need to do the sharing and Ican say I am ready and more motivated because if my three year old can do it, so can I!

So long to ink and hello to lead.

2011-04-27T13:37:00.001-07:00

If there is one thing I have had to learn about being a mom it's that you never mark your calendar in ink. Everything is penciled in with the underlying thought that at any moment something more important could come up for your children or they may just start running a fever and puking out of nowhere.

But I made the mistake of getting super excited about the Brooke Fraser concert tonight, which we have had tickets for, for over a month. I have been begging my husband to take me to a concert for years....literally. But we all know tickets aren't cheap and just when you have found them priced right you realize that tour date conflicts with prior commitements or it's in Canada. But we found these tickets over a month ago, the concert is about 25 minutes from our house and they were $20! We even booked our sitter weeks ago. NOTHING was going to stop us from going to this concert until Cola puked all over Mario and began to run a fever.

We knew what we had to do but neither wanted to do it. I called the sitter, cancelled and began to rack my brain who we could surprise with free tickets. I quickly remembered our realtor and friend who loves Brooke say she wanted to go but needed to watch her spending. She accepted our offer and her son will be here shortly to grab the tickets for them.

Cola's in a very deep sleep right beside me. I can feel how hot she is and I smell "sick". Sickness does have a smell. I'm not talking about puke but "sick". At the end of everyday, no matter how many messes I've cleaned, how many shirts I've had to change, how many tantrums I've had to soothe or how many viruses I've contracted a supernatural motivation comes upon me. It soothes my heart and calms my mind letting me know it's worth it, motherhood, that is. Motherhood is worth it. And after it soothes and calms it strengthens. I cash that strength in every morning for endurance knowing that I CAN make it through another day.

Have you ever felt really alone? And then felt the presence of God just for even a few seconds? The presence of one God makes you feel in the company of 1,000 supporters who love you. That's just like motherhood. You can be sick for days and care for everyone but yourself, cancel all of your plans, go without a shower and then comes their first steps or a faint smile and it's as though you have witnessed a lifetime of goodness in one single moment and you know it's worth it. The worth of that one single moment devalues the rest.

In twitter slang #grateful

Easter Weekend

2011-04-25T20:09:00.000-07:00

I can't remember if mentioned Dalen auditioned for our church Easter production. He has been practicing twice a week for about a month now. He has absolutely LOVED the entire process of preparing for the play, not to mention performing in front of hundreds three times on Sunday.

Because he had worked so hard you can only imagine how upset we were when Friday night he came down with a 24 hour bug or food poisoning. We still aren't sure which but I do know it only lasted 24 hours and by Sunday he was good to go but very tired. He told me many times while throwing up "Mom, I am totally not missing my play!" What a trooper! Any mom knows how horribly painful is to watch you child puke and heave. You just have to let it run it's course.

Sunday was so chaotic and tiresome I didn't get one single picture of C in her Easter dress, which was hot pink and so cute on her. Oh well, we made it through the day that's what matters.

This is Cola out to dinner! She was turned completely around smiling at other tables.

We later went to Celebration and did some Gator watching. We spotted one!

This is Dalen waiting to go on stage. He got to wear comfy pajamas and a hospital robe since he played a sick boy!

I just ordered two more books. No, I still haven't found my Shauna Neiquist book. One that I ordered is Love Wins by Rob Bell. Can someone give me feedback on this read? Why is everyone saying it's so controversial??

Has anyone heard Lady Gaga's new Judas song? I won't comment...look up the lyrics if you haven't heard it.

Also, how about all this hoop-lah about the royal wedding!? I mean seriously! I feel like I have heard about it for a year now! Say I do already!

Oh the things you learn in the bunny line....

2011-04-23T16:31:00.000-07:00

Why in the world did I wait until the Friday before Easter to get my kids' pictures with the Easter bunny made? The line was forever long (Actually it could have been longer but long is long) and what kid wants to be dressed up for a picture on a Friday?
This is Cola's hair picked out. Hopefully it won't be the only laugh you get from this post. The woman two places in front of me in line had three kids. One was a newborn baby girl named, Pebble. She also had two sons who were completely out of control. Seriously, they were so out of hand she had to leave. Their names were River and Leaf. I know, my daughter's name is Cola and I can't talk about strange names but I surely wanted to pry and ask what inspired their names. But I didn't because I know how annoying it is. And no, she wasn't a hippie or at least didn't look like it.

The lady directly in front of me had a newborn baby girl, Elin. This is awful and I should have made eye contact with her but I didn't dare. I left with her entire life story and she never even spoke a word directly to me. She tried for 15 years to get pregnant and finally did. My heart was happy for her, I promise, I just never care to hear about a stranger's contraceptive use and ovulation schedule, so therefore I didn't make eye contact. Horrible I know. I guess because she waited so long for a child she wanted the PERFECT posed picture. I promise I am not being sarcastic but I was totally patient. For a moment I understood wanting perfection after waiting so long for a baby but I did want to jump in and let her know her newborn didn't have neck muscles strong enough to hold her head completely straight and no your silly faces weren't going to make her smile because her vision isn't that sharp yet and she was standing 30 feet away. But we finally made it to the front of the line.

Dalen sat for a while as the lady looked at each individual pose 30 times a peice lol.

This is him in G. His inner model always comes out.

They gave away a mask with a purchase.

And here is our lovely, perfect, beautiful Bunny pic! lol, I really do love it. It so expresses Cola's personality. She hates new people, different things and will always let you know just how much.

I'm not that mom that is going to waste my time or anyone else's making my child smile when they clearly aren't going to. So She snapped twice and I snagged Cola and we were on our way.

What old pictures do you enjoy the most of yourself now? The horrible ones! So I know this pic will be a great laugh someday and it will SO go in her wedding slideshow lol. It's so the truth! We want amazing pics of our kids and I promise they won't get two glances when they are older they want to see the horrible outfits and relive the painful moments so they can realize how much they have grown.

I also have to share my heart about making your kids sit on the Easter Bunny's lap. These are my thoughts, if you don't like them no one forced you to read them...

Your child is NOT going to be traumatized for life for actually facing a fear. I promise....they probably won't even remember the experience. Our job as parents is not to make our children comfortable all the time, our greatest discomforts lead to our greatest victories. If your child is never shown they can they will always believe they can't. No you shouldn't force your child to do EVERYTHING, there is a time and a place but what harm is done to a child who is made to sit on a furry bunny's lap for 1 minute? They will scream and cry but if you are reading this chances are you have left your child to scream and cry in their crib more than once so that they learn to sleep alone. You probably don't have a problem doing that b-c it is more comfortable for you in the end. So for you who oppose the easter bunny is it because your child is uncomfortable or YOU are uncomfortable? Just some thoughts.....

This was taken on the way to the car.....see no harm done!

Back to my old habits....

2011-04-21T20:57:00.000-07:00

I'm so serious if you want a laugh search "apartment reviews online". LOL!!! Seriously! I did this a year ago when we were looking for a place and I seriously was on the verge of abs from laughing so hard. So I was bored tonight and thought I would enlighten you a little!

"It's a green complex so you won't have no cold water b-c there is no grass and the pavement stay so hot." (What the heck??? I have no idea what this means!)

Seriously, do not read this next one if you have anything to drink in your mouth...
"Thinking of expanding your family? This is the place for you, the local Roach-tel. This place is a total descrase (sp!, lol!) !"

"Two words-Hooker Haven." (omg!)

"The structure of this place is awful. The builder build it so bad that one i heared my neighbor singing about ain't having drawrs on." (I am laughing so hard it's just not even containable. Gotta love the spelling and lovely grammar!)

"They are thuggish people roaming all day. They are white thugs but be assured, THEY ARE REAL THUGS! The ones who ain't thugs are aliens...." (Aliens? Real ones or illegal ones? People are just tooo brilliant!)

If you decide to try out this wonderful hobby of mine and aren't finding any funny ones try some of these searches...

apartment reviews slumlord, roaches, shoot outs, ghetto, bullet holes

you get the point! Hope you enjoyed a laugh...or 2!

Another PM post

2011-04-19T20:17:00.000-07:00

Here is another PM post...uh oh you never what will be said in a PM post. Also, this is a post of random thoughts so either they will make no sense or way too much sense and I'll get in trouble by someone. HAHA!

Why do people keep secrets when the whole entire world is going to know soon enough?
Fear? Timing? Denial? Reputation? Not that I think everyone's business is mine but secrets often lead to deceit, untruths and result in broken relationships. There is no time like the now....

Since when is divorce funny? No there is no words of wisdom to follow or a funny punchline but rather a long pause in hopes someone can make sense of a very serious problem becoming a laughing matter. Just in case you want to know what I think and I am assuming you do if you are reading....divorce is NEVER funny to me, especially when kids are involved.

I've only set two people up in my entire life. One is about to celebrate their 10 year anniversary and the other is getting married in June. Should you get permission to hook your friends up or just allow a "hands on" occurence to take place? Or should you never hook people up??

My Girl

2011-04-18T05:25:00.001-07:00

Just to give you an idea of how much Cola eats...yesterday I got a text during church from one of our youth members saying Cola won't eat and I think something is wrong! So I tell her to put my name on the screen and I will come check on her. I get to the nursery, she isn't running a fever, she's full of smiles and is playing activly. The youth member begins to tell me yeah, she's only eaten 2 breakfast bars, a fist full of animal crackers and had a cup of water! It was ONLY noon. So because she wouldn't go on and eat her lunch as well they thought she was sick. This girl can seriously pack it away! I mean all day long! After leaving church we joined church family for lunch and my pastor kept feeing her bread and everytime he would look down to give her another peice she had already crammed it in her mouth when he wasn't looking....lol. She is so hilarious! I'm not sure where it goes considering she is in only in the 8th percentile for weight.

This was us during service playing together. She is a girl of many faces that's for sure!

I loved getting to see her play with other kids. This little boy just dropped to the floor on a play mat and she began to pat him to sleep. She later got a blankie and put it on top of him.

And whole couldn't want to smooch these two little lips to peices! AHHH! So funny!

I kept asking Cola do your teeth hurt? She kept holding her little cheeks and holding her hand out like I don't know. Although I missed 2nd service I thoroughly enjoyed getting to spend some one-on-one time with her. She is one funny girl who is constantly smiling and observing.

Kids and Culture

2011-04-16T18:55:00.001-07:00

Today was a great day and I hope the events of it will lead to a great post. Mario and I get really busy with our everyday lives and the kids and his job (what's new, we all do) and we have realized we don't spend enough time with our Youth Leadership. So, today we marked on the calendar as a day we were going to spend hanging out. We all met at one of our staff leader's houses which is AMAZING and happens to have a pool. It was so much fun eating, laughing, swimming and just getting to know each other in a very relaxed environment. As stated before in previous blogs, I was raised by great parents who loved God, worked hard and gave us every beneficial opportunity they could. I really appreciate that. As I reached high school (and it honestly wasn't until then) I realized not every family was like mine. There were a million different ways of life, many different colors of people and so many cultures and religions that I didn't even know about. Growing up I never traveled outside of the US (until my senior trip) or was never really introduced to any other cultures or countries. I really wish that would have been different. I met friends in college who were taken literally around the world (by their parents) as a way to open their eyes to the world. I have always wished that were different in my life and I have always said I really want to encourage my children not to make friends with others who are just like us. I had four FABULOUS friends in my life while in high school and with the exception of one we are all still very close. We were all alike in the sense that we were all middle class, we were all white and our dad's were all pastors in the same denomination. While I absolutely love those girls still to this day I can't help but to wish I would have had close friends that were different from us in addtion. I sat around a table today with individuals who were African American, Hispanic, Italian, Bi-racial, and yes, if you can believe it one Lebanese and Armenian female! I remember just sitting watching, looking at them interact with my children and occaisonally begin to speak in their language and think this is exactly how I want my kids raised, surrounded by one big fat melting pot of Heaven on Earth. I want my kids to know that every pastor who wears a robe isn't Catholic, that every person who drinks wine isn't a raging lush and that just because you are black doesn't mean you came from Africa. I want my kids to be challenged by the faith of others because if they aren't strengthened by the doctrine of others they will be weak and unstable when they are adults. And yes, I want them to know that while we do things in a very particular way in our home there are millions of other families who do things differently but with as much love for God and each other as we do. I can't go back into my teens and change the way I was raised. I can't go back and expose myself other cultures and races but I can do that for my kids and today I did that. I exposed them to people who are so different in color, culture, relationship, gender, backgrounds and yet we all came together and loved each other confidently in who were are. That's a beautiful thing! I'm glad that my kids will see people pray quietly and loudly and not think either way is weird or wrong. I'm super proud that my kids will see men and women alike doing God's work because they are equally capable. It excites me that I will never limit a friendship, relationship or possibility because of someone's race, origin or culture. Today I'm not regretful, I'm proud. And on to the pics... We had to keep a VERY close eye on Cola because she sat in this float and nearly fell asleep!

Mom and daughter.

One of my favorite things about my son are his eyelashes. You can see why in this pic! Aren't they so pretty and long?? He gets them from his dad.

A few of our leaders.

I am convinced this will be the year he learns to swim. He jumped off and got around fine with the help of the floaties.

And here he is Mr. Karate Kid himself! Ever since Dalen watched Karate Kid he has wanted braids. One of the women there quickly did his hair poolside, after washing it in the kitchen sink! We love it and Dalen is so proud!

Hood House

2011-04-14T05:33:00.001-07:00

Cola has totally taken over Dalen's stuffed Tigger. I just love watching her drag him around because he is bigger than she is but she loves him!

Dalen is in the church Easter play. He plays a sick boy who later gets healed. He has done an amazing job and actually asks all the time do we have play practice today?? We are proud of him. He was upset in the picture above because Mario was out of town.

Someone spotted the Easter bunny! I have yet to find the kids their Easter outfits but I am on the hunt! I just love the navy collection out in Gymboree right now but its pricey! Once the kids have outfits we will get their pictures taken.

Cola has become super clingy to blankies. Not a particular one but she drags them around all day. I think it's really cute. She is also really starting to play with her dolls which is so cute. She pats their backs, gives them kisses and drags them as well.

Nothing too exciting to report just going from day to day...

Shortbread and Violins

2011-04-11T16:14:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting in a new tea room I found close to our house. I'm still trying to figure out what's best, the shortbread cookies or the Swiss flavored European drinking chocolate. I have a lot on my mind tonight; where will we move, what will I speak on tomorrow to our youth, the pain in my neck and back and a few friends who have shared some major disappointments with me. I have a new chiropractor. Today was my first visit. I had tests, x-rays and an exam. Though my visit was pretty serious, due to very severe pain (again!) all I could think about was my single friend who would look SO SUPER cute with the doctor who was only 25. Anyways, they concluded my neck is that of a 50 years olds with a completely reversed curvature. Exactly how I planned to start my Monday! We will go over treatment plans on Friday and what my insurance will cover. My lower back is not in any better condition. I just finished Heaven Is For Real (it will be mailed this week, A!) and the one thing the little boy who went to Heaven harped on, is that Jesus loves the children. Of course, we know the common theme in the gospel is Christ's love for us all but then there are those hints he has an extra soft spot towards the little ones. This touches me. For now, my kids are kind of like his extra favorites?? If we are "like Christ" why is that it is hardest to secure consistent help in the children's ministry? I mean, really, think about that. I'm not being sarcastic but if we are really like him, why is it a begging match to secure help in the nursery? Something to think about. I don't have much more than that. Kind of light for now....

Books and Books and Books

2011-04-05T12:42:00.000-07:00

I am kind of a strange reader. I will go a month or two and not read anything but magazines and my Bible and then for months I will read like crazy! Speaking of reading, I was strongly encouraged to read Bittersweet by Shauna Niequist and I had about 40 pages left in it and it has totally disappeared. Like literally, fallen off of the face of the Earth. Seriously?? I am sure I will find it in the bottom of a laundry basket or trash can or some place random my kids put things. I also, just finished the 2nd book in the Julia DeSmitt series by Nicole Baart. Second book was MUCH better than first and now I am dying to know what is left in the 3rd one which I ordered from Amazon last week. I also ordered Heaven Is For Real. It's a true story of a young boy who had a near death experience and went to Heaven. The first person to comment on this blog and say they want it, gets it when I'm done. I'll ship it to you if you are out of town. I also ordered Cake Pops. A book all about creative cake pops. I know I am a dork but I just can't refrain! What are you reading right now?? Someone recommend me something good....inspirational, a great mind spinning novel or something challenging. I'm always open to explore new authors.

The one time hoarding is ok

2011-04-01T20:33:00.000-07:00

When I find good friends, I keep them. It's the one time hoarding is ok. After keeping them they are no longer good, they are great. Not because I kept them but because they stayed. They aren't who they were when we first met they are like fine wine that has sat, fermented and now ready to add great flavor and sweetness to someone's life. Man alone is creation at it's worst but man united by friendship is creation at it's greatest. I want to be the greatest. God had a plan when expressed the aloneness of man was not good. So he made partnership so we could be great. However, we have fenced our lives with a deep, dark abyss of stinging aloneness. Who will attempt the darkness of those waters so deep? Only the courageous, brave and determined-only the ones wanting to partner in God's plan for unity. Many times in order to be a part in the life of someone else it takes us braving that scarry abyss. You will make it across. You won't walk it, you won't swim it but you will have a moment like Peter and walk on that water and it becomes a rock solid foundation. The foundation to relational unity is solid because Christ is at it's core. This week I miss my friends. I couldn't remember that name of that road-was it 414, 434, 436 or 417? Yes, there are THAT many roads with a 4 in them. It was a day where Falmouth road sounded perfect because it's unforgettable. So I reached, literally reached, for my phone to call A (my super organized, detail oriented, really specific friend) and ask what that road was called. Then I realized, she isn't here and wouldn't know. Then there were those two days of being a shut in due to horrible storms and wanting to call C for a playdate with her two great kids. But they too are so far away. And of course my other friend A who is single, childless and laughs at my jokes...well she was 1/2 way around the world on a trip for work and literally the thought of her physical distance made me sick. I guess, I just want to thank anyone who has ever came to visit my island. The island of Megan that is surrounded by a pretty scarry and dark abyss of "leave me alone, I'd rather not be bothered". I am now seeing it took great faith and the hand of God to allow you to walk on water and land straight on the deepest part of my heart. You are all a part of my heart and because of each of you my heart is fuller.

Mama said Part 2

2011-03-31T11:59:00.000-07:00

It's still raining. Oh, well. One of those days you just have to pray for sanity and patience with two kids indoors. I bought three new flashlights today after our power outage yesterday. I don't think they will do any good if we have another one considering I let it slide and the kids have played with them most of the day. Back to my previous post... So we already established yesterday was not so great. I went to bed with unifinished business including a HEAPING mound of laundry and TWO sink fulls of dishes. Unfortunately, I learned I am no magician. They were still there waiting on me when I woke up. So was everything else-including, ironically enough, another HORRIBLE day of bad weather! I know that you shouldn't go to bed mad and that the sooner you start the process of healing the sooner the pain subsides and the more proactive you are about your future the more vividly it's seen in today but I still go to bed mad, do not pray for healing, and get comfortable with where I am today. Horrible, I know. But, I'm learning. Learning that when you wake up with high hopes of a sun filled morning you must first sweep up the peices of yesterday and until the dust settles the day will be quite hazy. I can't remember how many times I said goodbye to yesterday. I laid in bed for a while awake saying, "Adios!" and yet today I woke with the same annoying sting from the wounds of yesterday. Don't be like me. Don't wait for tomorrow to do that laundry, wash those dishes, look for that perfect house...just do it. Otherwise the bad day grows to worse and it becomes a bad week. If it's already bad but finish it with bad landry and stinky dishes and endless internet searching...it matches the mood, huh?

Mama said there'd be days like this...

2011-03-30T19:37:00.000-07:00

It's 10:38 p.m.. We all know we I am not a p.m. poster but I must add another theory to my life...if you have laughed at your day, cried several times, yelled at least one person, asked God to forgive you then there is only one left to do-BLOG! I don't even know where to begin-so I won't. This day has been absolutely horrible. That's a start. Sometimes the details of it all just aren't ready to be re-lived but I think this is a great post b-c it's a compilation of the many things I have learned on bad days. These did not all come to me b-c of today but a lot of them did. 1. It's way better to cry alone than to cry in the presence of someone who should care but clearly does not. 2. When I talk about the somewhat petty components that make up a bad day like our entire family had to dress in the dark b-c of a power outage (yes, that really happened today) and you begin to quote statistics about how many countries don't even have power that does not make me feel guilty, only terribly annoyed and slightly infuriated. 3. Whoever said when it rains it pours...they were a genius. 4. Most of my bad days are related back to a known need not being met by someone I know and care for. 5. It should be a crime, absolute crime to expect a mother of two to have the entire family fed, dressed and to church in a thunderstorm. I'm sorry I love God and love church but seriously it's nearly impossible to be in a good mood after weathering a storm with a kid by hand and baby on a hip WHILE BALANCING IN HEELS! Yeah, take that to the circus! 6. The sun will not come out tomorrow until the rain clouds of today finish clearing. In other words, sometimes a new day means new problems in addition to the ones you never dealt with today. Be confrontational and get it over with. 7. What I want most in life is to be heard. If I call you on a bad day I probably don't want free therapy, advice, to be condemned for actually being human and feeling emotions due to crappy events, I probably just want you to listen. Oh, and if I talk really loud and emphasize a really dramatic event that really has me going GASP really loud and throw in a few OMGs just so I feel like SOMEONE actually relates to the crappiness of my day. 8. On bad days I rarely feel sad. I feel mad. Mad at too many people who aren't me. Why do I tend to be very responsible in life but refuse to take responsibility for what I could have done better to make the day go smoother?? Ok, now I feel like I can sleep.

Road Block...

2011-03-24T05:52:00.000-07:00

I've never seen myself picky with houses. If it has four walls and a roof, plumbing and central heat and air then it can be considered. However since we've been looking I've realized I am not only picky I am IMPOSSIBLE!

I don't know what's wrong with me! Of course the listings come by adress with a link to see the pictures and additional details of the home. I however have been catching myself stopping at the addresses! I'm sorry but I just couldn't reason addressing Christmas cards and placing a return address label with a address of Falmouth Drive. No matter how you pronounce that A it sounds like Foulmouthed. And there was Aunt Polly Trail. Who the heck is Aunt Polly?? And of course I can't forget Huckleberry Finn (can't remember if it was rd or st). Talk about a reminder of my Tennessee roots!

So I have hit a road block....literally a road is blocking me from choosing. Oh, did I mention we have to be out of our apt by May 31st and give a 60 notice we are leaving. Yeah, I better get on the stick. On a more serious note, pray we find a home that meets our needs and everything goes smoothly.

Since I am talking about wants more than actual needs....I have always wanted to go see the Regis and Kelly show. Mario and I are going to NY this summer and it may just be my chance to catch good ole Reg before he retires! Pray I get to see him! I know its not that important but I want to see him in all of his morning glory!

I have to mention that my parents were able to visit last month, I visited them this month, I am meeting a friend and my goddaughter for lunch today (they are on vacation), more friends in town this weekend for Sonfest and my dad is passing through later today and we are having dinner. I am really happy I've been able to see so many people!

March

2011-03-19T14:39:00.001-07:00

Sometimes updates are easiest done by small one liners...

I just returned from a visit to Tennessee.

I had precious moments with family and laughter filled visits with friends.

I came home to very tired husband, busy schedule (how does that happen when you are unemployed) and two kids totally off their routine (grrr).

I just found out there will be a male and female addition to the Vining family. My cousins (sisters) are pregnant and another cousin started the adoption process. HOW EXCITING!

I have become the NO TV NATZI and I have been very tempted to cancel our cable lately. My son is constantly begging to watch cartoons. I do NOT like this.

I came home to two books on the table. I ordered Bittersweet and Summer Snow before I left. Can't wait to start Bittersweet after Summer Snow.

That's all for now!

Never Say Never

2011-03-03T16:45:00.000-08:00

Didn't you always vow to never say, "Because I said so," to your kids or promise to never make your daughter wear bows, frilly socks or panty hose? I'm sure, if you are anything like me, you swore when you got married you would ONLY wear Victoria's Secret panties and never lose your pre-baby body. Then of course, I must remember looking at those college graduates who were nearing the BIG 3-0, still living at home and waiting tables and doing nothing with that expensive degree and declaring, "That would never be!" I remember occaisonally running into the stressed out stay at home mom from church and thinking, "Why would someone do that to theirself? Stay home all day?? NEVER!"

But here I am *arms wide open, big cheesy grin, hair a mess, face bare* and I realize how nieve, unprepared, ignorant I was to have ever made those statements. I stay home with the kids, my daughter wears bows (NOT the big ones and I haven't ever made her wear the frilly socks-torture!), I wish I could say my underwear were brand new and only from a pink striped bag but shamefully that's not the case. I think about Psychology a lot but in a professional setting its not been used much.

I'm just curious....are there any other people that said never this or never that and find that always is more the case?

FREE

2011-03-02T07:29:00.000-08:00

The last two days my husband and I were able to take advantage of a Youth Pastor's Summit in Orlando for FREE. We were able to hear from some of the most well known voices including George Barna and Francis Chan. The best part...it was FREE.

So was breakfast and lunch, Universal tickets, numerous books, a pre-screening of the movie Courageous, concert by Attaboy and life changing challenges. I love FREE STUFF! I am moved that so many ministries are able to offer amazing conferences such as these for free. If your family is anything like ours, it's not always doable to attend amazing things such as the one just mentioned.

Sometimes the best things in life ARE free. I loved George Barna and his simplicity. I loved that he refused to mention exact places where he had seen "church" done "right" or "wrong". I loved even more that he said if I mentioned the right ones you would have never heard of them because they are small and have no interest in being put on the map because they are too busy being about the true father's business.

He also suggested when asked, "Is there a specific church model we can look to, to be successful?", we simply measure our success not by numbers, sqaure footage, attendance, or staff but by fruit. So simple! Basically if your strategy isn't producing fruit, you aren't succeeding. Very humble and smart man.

I had never had a privledge of hearing Francis Chan in person. I am so glad I had the opportunity to hear of his life in the last year. What a man of faith! He left his church of 16 years after feeling he was hearing "Francis Chan" more than "Holy Spirit". His family (expectant wife and 5 kids) have spent the last year traveling the world waiting to hear where God tells them to go next. He has returned to the states to finish a few things God wants to do through him here but you could see absolutely NO RESERVATION to pack his entire family up and move across the globe all for the sake of the kingdom. Wow. I must admit I wanted to erase every blog post about having a hard time moving 8 hours from home. This man gave up his entire life.

I was introduced to a new author, Melody Carlson. Heard of her?? I am anxious to read her new book Forgotten. It was FREE! Back to my previous post, the entire conference I kept hearing whispers of "just because" straight from God. I hadn't earned my right to be there but I was and I left with some very influential thoughts and challenges. What have you gotten lately for free??

The Big "J" Word

2011-02-23T15:23:00.001-08:00

February has been by far my favorite month in a very long time. I am really starting to feel settled more and more everyday. I am no longer the lost (ok so I occasionally still do get lost) new person but a member of a church, resident of Florida and I have to admit even though we want a house this apt is awfully cozy.

We got to see Cola turn one, go to Bermuda, celebrate Valentine's Day, watch Dalen learn basketball, spend a day at Universal for free and Friday we will see our 5 year anniversary come to pass and be able to attend the Youth Pastor's Summit on the 28th. It's been a FUN, action packed month.

I have noticed that I don't like my mental state during the good times in life. It seems I am always Justifying why I deserve good things just so I feel comfortable enough to somewhat enjoy them while they last. This morning I woke up craving ice cream. Random for me because I am not a sweets person. We have a container of Publix brand Roadrunner Raspberry Frozen Yogurt in the freezer, yum, and I kept going back and forth just trying to gather enough Justifying thoughts so that I could enjoy some guilt free. Why do I do that?

I found myself in Bermuda having to force thoughts away of why someone else should have taken that beautiful platform in front of an amazing group of young people. But that someone else was me. For whatever reason, God chose me, sent me, provided for ME.

I am not one to super spiritualize my unhealthy mentalities but I am not naive enough to dismiss the probability that the enemy would love to detour me from enjoying the many blessings God has given me.

So this morning I had ice cream for breakfast. On a sugar cone. Not because I have lost so much weight and deserve a treat, not because I did so well on the Daniel's fast last month but just because. Just because...

Enjoy your just because moments. Sometimes after seasons of struggling, working hard, experiences of loss you won't have a reason to enjoy small things but it doesn't mean you shouldn't. Embrace a just because mentality. And tomorrow if you happen to wake up craving ice cream and need a reason to enjoy it for the "most important meal of the day" just tell yourself I said you deserve it.

And of course what is a post without pics of these beauties in my life...

We found a great new park.

Did I mention we are having some pretty amazing weather??

Cola had NO fear of the ducks. See the swan right behind her hand??

Universal

2011-02-18T17:45:00.001-08:00

I don't know what kind of weather you are having but I just have mention how glorious our weather has been this week. There is no other word but glorious. It's been in the mid 70s and today finally reached 80, Mr. Sun has been FAR from shy and there has been just enough wind to keep us from breaking a sweat.

We are going on several days of no heat or air used. I think my utility bill could used to that! We had free Universal tickets from a church member and they expire in March so we decided to take advantage of this beautiful day and spend it together, outside.

My hair is so stinking long. I'm gonna have to cut it off soon!
We were standing in line for Shrek 4D and told Cola to smile...we were laughing so hard.
She is such a happy gal!

Cola was dying to get into this pool of balls. Underneath was a huge trampoline.

So fun! Look at her smile!

This was one of my fav. parts of the day. We saw the Simpsons, which we aren't allowed

to watch in our house. I really wanted the kids to get pics with as many characters as they

could and D kept yelling, "But we aren't allowed to watch them on TV!" "They say bad words!"

Guilty by association??

Ok, on one hand I'd like to report this character and another it's one of those things you just roll your eyes and move on. So the man underneath that costume decided it would be funny to scratch his butt and then chase the kids with the hand he did the scratching with. I think we all know my son does NOT need anymore ideas of this sort. He ended up scaring off half of the line of kids after chasing them.

Have I ever mentioned how much Dalen loves "Curious THE George"?

I'm not sure how well you can see our faces in this pic but every now and again I realize how much me and C look alike. This pic is one of those moments.

Dalen rode his 1st roller coaster and LOVED it! He laughed and screamed the WHOLE way! I was super proud of him. I also took him on the ET ride. It was my only request for the day, I really wanted to take D on that ride. He was a little uncertain at first but when we get to the part of the ride that's over the city and it seems like you are on a bycicle in the sky, Dalen sat straight up, his mouth wide open and looked over to the big "moon" (which was a planet in outer space to him) and yelled, "Oh my gosh! We made it to outer space! This is amazing mom! You are so awesome!" Then broke into a thunderous applause. He literally had no doubt in his mind that he had officially gone to outer space! It was a priceless moment that I will NEVER forget!

How do you and your loved ones choose to spend pretty days?

Leaders, Power, Control

2011-02-17T04:39:00.000-08:00

The following post has nothing to do with the pictures in it, but I've learned there are no good posts without pics!

Dalen got his jersey at his 1st basketball game a few weeks ago.

He is #6!
Cola loved her birthday cake!

Her smile is totally contagious!

Post game snack!

Ok, now onto my thoughts. I've been thinking about leadership a lot lately. Leaders are everywhere, not just in the church but in the marketplace as well. Here's what I have noticed...

So many people think they are leaders because they have been entrusted with power so that they can control others...WRONG! So, so, so WRONG! I am so disheartened at seeing so many leaders abuse their placements.

As a leader you have been entrusted with influence so that you can lead! It's not about control, it's about being such a positive influence that others follow you as you lead and find themselves in positive places because of your leadership.

If God has entrusted you as a leader you probably find yourself as the "head". This may be a head pastor, head manager, head teacher of your team-where ever you are the "head" just remember you are not there to control the body. You are there to empower the PARTS of the body.

True leaders delegate. They offer CONSTRUCTIVE criticism. They are never intimidated when a follower surpasses their successes. They are mindful that when followers turn to leaders that have then, and only then, been truly successful.

Be a leader....not a power driven control freak.

Catch Me If You Can

2011-02-16T05:15:00.000-08:00

Do you ever feel like your life is in high gear, accelerating at a very high speed? I remember thinking I need to blog, I need to blog and then puting it off and I feel like my life in hindsight are fleeting memories that may or may not be able to be retrieved. Anyways, I was gone 5 days to Bermuda. I know, I should have been blogging about the upcoming event but I am funny about announcing I am going to be gone when my babies will be home with their caretaker.

So, Mario and I were asked to speak at a youth conference in Bermuda. We sure, "Let us pray about it," that's a lie, haha. We really actually said, "Of course, we think we can suffer for the cause of Christ in your beautiful country!" We left on the 9th and came home on the 13th. It was a beautiful trip. Breathtaking scenery, lovely people, a faithful God who did amazing things in our services.

This trip allowed me the rare opportunity to be on a platform in front of total strangers which I know is my ultimate calling from God. It was an amazing opportunity that I won't forget. 24 souls were saved! That's what it's all about! Here are some pics...

It was raining. I had no umbrella. What's a girl to do?

Grab a showercap and go! Thanks, Jenna!
One of my favorite speakers!

Bermuda has pink sand! The waves wash peices of coral up on shore.

When you look closely you see tiny bits of pink grains! Beautiful!
Funny story, I had no bag to get sand so I was in the bathroom and took a few of these.
Worked perfectly, it was all I could find.

There are two lighthouses on the island. This is one of them.

Beautiful stained glass in a church!

Smallest drawbridge in the world!

Pretty church!

This just makes me laugh!

This makes me smile and relax a little.

Our babies did amazing! Our caretaker is just that. I can not call her a babysitter...she is so much more. I believe she is our modern day Mary Poppins, sent straight from God.

Tick, Tock, Time

2011-02-08T11:52:00.000-08:00

Does anyone besides me feel like time is moving too slowly or too quickly or do you ever find yourself wishing you could turn those stubborn hands of time back?

I'm sure I am not the only one! Time is the most valuable thing in life. So valuable, that it can't be bought, exchanged or recycled. You can't speed it up, slow it down, enjoy it more than once-you get the point.

I have realized the only influence I have on time is to make it worthwhile. Which I must add, is totally our choice.

I have found that the times I am busy making it worthwhile are the times I am least likely wanting to control how fast it comes and how slowly it goes. Because anything worthwhile goes with you forever, impacts your heart like nothing else and you know that the worthwhile moments can never be relived just the same more than once.

Enjoy a few worthwhile moments I captured on my camera phone. I just love her smiles and of course those rare moments when Dalen hugs her just right.

When you find yourself wanting to flee from the present moment or race to the next ask your self what you can do to increase the value of the now. Make every moment worthwhile!

Books

2011-02-02T18:22:00.000-08:00

Why is it that every time I try to get my pictures in a certain order it never happens? It's not worth a tantrum...Anyways, I have found that Dalen really, really loves me to read to him. I have been going through a lot of our boxes that have books in them and found some of my very favorites. I have a hard time deciding who loves these books more, him or me.

To all of my teacher friends, mom, friends with nieces or nephews these books are must haves!

My parents gave all three of us Love You Forever for graduation. They wrote a personal note to us in the front so every time I get to read this to Dalen I pass by my dad's letter. Don't you love his writing?

My mom gave me this book two Mother's Days ago. It is a total tear jerker and every mom should buy this for their daughter.

This is one of those I have had since I was little. This book never gets old and I love the bad mood faces Dalen makes when we read it.

The Dreaded Flu: Day 2

2011-02-01T16:20:00.001-08:00

I am pleased to say that the baby's fever has gone way down. She is still showing signs of great discomfort and has developed a horrible cough but I am still prayerfully hopefully she will be better by her birthday.

I do have some funny things from Dalen.

He has started to call my contacts "eye-tacts"

I asked him what a wish was as one of Cola's toys talked about a birthday wish and he said it's the part of the birthday magic. Wow, I think he really knows what it is??

He told my sister magic is the spirit of a ghost.

He has gotten into a horrible habit of lying. He told our music pastor I called him a liar, the preschool/nursery director I was SOOO mad at her b-c she let him go outside during nursery time....and lying is just NOT funny to me AT ALL.

He also told me "we are having a dance contest" I looked at him and said "we?" And he said, "yeah, me and him" and pointed into the thin air. Then he busted out in total dance moves and looked beside him and shouted, "Go homie! Oh yeah!" Kind of scary!

The Dreaded Flu

2011-01-31T18:19:00.000-08:00

Little Lady of the house began running a fever yesterday and at about 3:30 today I realized it was just not coming down and infact it kept going up. I am so thankful for the GREAT pediatrician's office I have found here. They squeezed me in and of course had us in and out within an hour.

They took her temp in both ears and I knew something was fishy when the nurse said I'd like to take her temp rectally as well. She had a fever of 104.5. She was shaking uncontrollably. They tested for the flu and it came back negative but because nothing else appeared to be a problem they are pretty sure it's the flu. All of the symptoms add up. Can I just express what a pitiful sight she is?

Please whisper prayers for her today and mention her being well by Thursday, her 1st birthday. I am excited about a talented and super sweet youth group member doing her cake and we have reservations at the tea house for our family. My parents were supposed to come in this weekend but my mom got sick and my dad realized his schedule wouldn't allow it. Let's just say we have seen better days than today.

Fridays of Fun

2011-01-29T10:44:00.001-08:00

Have I ever mentioned that Fridays are my day out? I can do whatever I want, when I want to-on a modest amount of money. My husband takes the kids, changes diapers, gets up early, prepares the meals and I enjoy sleeping in and whatever else I feel the need to do.

When I first started doing this I was kind of bummed about my modest amount of spending I get to do for the day but now it is SOOOO fun. I must brag on myself and say I ALWAYS have a few bucks left and prove to myself that a good time doesn't have to cost a lot. Typically I enjoy a movie at the dollar theater and I love to mosey on over and enjoy the dollar scoop of Gelato at Red Brick Pizza (less calories, cheap cost!).

Yesterday I enjoyed having my nails painted...RED. It was then I realized I am getting old or act older than I should b-c I realized getting Pretty Woman Red was the most daring thing I had done in a while. Just remember good nails don't have to cost a lot. Pass on the pampering and just request a polish change and it's typically between $5-7 and don't forget to tip!

I visited Marshall's to buy Cola's birthday outfit, which was a dress with a scene from London around the bottom. It had tea shops, phone booths, tea pots, big ben....it was perfect for her tea party birthday but I sadly realized they didn't have her size :(

Today I found a new outfit. It wasn't the style I wanted and doesn't really match the tea theme but oh well, she will be cute no matter what she wears and the outfit screams DIVA ALERT! Enjoy some pics of our week!

All smiles!

Library day!

Dalen's "color train" he made while we waited for storytime.

Big girl sitting in a big girl chair!

Cola ready to clobber Dalen for teasing her about eating broccoli while he devoured chicken!

Fine China

2011-01-24T18:58:00.001-08:00

This morning and I didn't begin on the right foot. By 9 a.m. Little Lady had already had bath #1. Every morning we do the same thing. We are woken by Dalen, we get up, fix him a Nutella and then go on about our day. This morning Cola decided to wake up a little early-early enough to spot Dalen's uneaten Nutella and bread. Dalen ran into our room screaming, "She's got my breakfast!" I had an uneasy feeling it wasn't going to be pretty, and it wasn't BUT it was sure darn cute.

This gal loves her daddy! I love that she is finally expressing favoritism towards a few people. Her daddy is one of the few.

And we all know fine china doesn't belong in the dish washer but somehow my finest china ended up inside. This little chica LOVES the kitchen and bathroom. We can't even allow her to come in the kitchen if we are doing the dishes because she unloads them as soon as we put them in! I was feeling a little nice one particular day and let her wonder in the kitchen. Mario and I looked down and there she was-completely inside! And yes, that fork is dirty-gag, I sure did!

Can I give you something else to gag about? I haven't washed my hair in 4 days! Yeah, I am so serious. I have extremely oily hair and I have tried EVERYTHING. The Tea Tree shampoo worked for a bit and then stopped. Everything I keep reading says do not wash your hair everyday (which I have always done b-c if I don't its so greasy you could fry chicken on it) so I thought I would give it a try. There is a product out there for greasy hair called hair powder and it comes in the color of your hair but it's $35 for a 4 ounce can! NO THANKS! So I have been using regular baby powder and slapping my head to get the harsh whiteness out and the oil is GONE! How ya like me now?? My husband is gonna die when he sees I have confessed this lol. Hey if it works, it works. I am not sure how often I can do this. Just the thought makes me nauseous!

Bookworms

2011-01-18T11:20:00.000-08:00

After my aunt mentioning storytelling at her local library it gave me an idea to try our local storytime out. The kids had a fabulous time and I learned that the kids section has more than books, they have toys too! Dalen made friends, of course and even Cola ventured off to the reading rug and listened to the stories. Enjoy some pics of their time at the library.

PS-Aren't you so glad Dalen is back to letting me photograph him?

For your viewing pleasure!

2011-01-17T17:38:00.000-08:00

"Mom, is the lightening the bones of the sky?" -Dalen-

Karate Kid

2011-01-13T13:05:00.001-08:00

This is my Karate Kid. He's not allowed to do karate moves anymore (b-c he kept practicing on his sister, no I'm not kidding) but it was the only way he would allow me to take his picture with him looking. He is so anti-picture taking these days! Did mention in my last post Mario has been under the weather too? I can't remember and I'm too lazy to go back and look.

By Wednesday morning Dalen was acting normal again. Still has the sniffles and a cough but no fever. Mario is on the mend as well-we think! I took Dalen to the mall playground and left C with Daddy. Dalen really is a totally different kid when it's just him. He's a lot calmer and listens a lot better.

Here is a post about a few funny things he has done/said lately. Mario was wrestling with him last night and they "play punch" and roll around growling and screaming. Mario thrust one of his play punches right over Dalen's heart and Dalen yelled,"Hey, Dad! Don't hit me in my heart, Jesus lives in there!" Good to know huh? I'm sure his house wasn't shaken.

It's freezing here today! Like in the lower 30s! I made Dalen wear his big fluffy coat and his teeth were chattering by the time we got in the car and he said, "Man, this cold is going to freeze my teeth off my lips, Mama!"

Upon pulling out of our apt. complex a lady decided to run a stop sign and nearly hit us head on. She threw her hands up at me like I had done something wrong. I threw mine right back up and pointed and yelled "YOU'VE got the stop sign, NOT me!" She took a quick glance behind her and covered her mouth as if to say she didn't see it. We both then made our turns and Dalen threw his hands up in the back seat huffing in the most sracastic tone ever, "Welp, that just went great, Megan!" I laughed hysterically and asked, "what went great?" His reply- "I just can't talk about it, Mom. Too, just too, frustrated." He is so hilarious.

We get to the mall playground and Dalen takes his jacket off and turns to the lady next to us and says, "This jacket was 160 bucks! Ok?" She was totally taken back for a moment and then just laughed for a long time. I assured her it indeed did not cost that much.

We had a very nice time at the mall and even visited our friends at the card shop who of course don't acknowledge me until Dalen pops around the corner. When we left dalen let me know he likes leaving little leesey (cola) at home...a lot!

My Son

2011-01-11T16:30:00.001-08:00

Tonight on our way to church, Dalen said some pretty funny things. I'm sure you aren't surprised. He told me he wanted Kinger Burg for dinner (Burger King) and then told me I was a "pretty awesome driver" when I turned the corner a little to quickly. His laughter soon faded when we got to church and I realized he was running a fever.

Yeah, it happens that fast! He threw an absolute fit when I told him we were going to have to come home. He is now sleeping sound, Cola is comfy in her crib snoozing away. The picture above is before I put her down for bed. She kept squeeling for Dalen to look at his watch she found but he was sleeping so of course didn't respond and so she kept pushing it as hard as she could right on his nose. She is too funny.

I took Dalen to the doctor on Saturday and they gave him a clean bill of health-after a strep test. He was fine Sunday and Monday and all of the sudden he is "hot and cold all over my skin and bones" tonight. It's the strangest thing. Please say a prayer if you think of him. Of course, I am praying it's not the dreaded flu.

All of my friends and family are enjoying snow days inside this week. They got about 8 inches! Cheers to hot cocoa and snowball fights and please think of me while sitting in front of your crackling fireplace! Florida has gotten the yucky end of the snow storms-rain. Not too much but enough to make you say yuck. Well I guess you are pretty desperate for conversation when you start talking about the weather. So, if you will, excuse me I just rented a DVD from Redbox and I think I'll take full advantage of some peace and quiet, while it lasts!

Party for a Princess

2011-01-09T17:53:00.000-08:00

Here we are at the beginning of 2011. If I've said it once I'll say it a million times, "I can't believe we are the start of a new year!" I also can't believe that I am start to plan for Cola's 1st birthday! I can remember feeling like the time went quickly in Dalen's first year but with Cola I feel like it has literally flown by, not to mention she is so petite it's even harder to believe in less than a month she will be one!

I've also talked a lot about how different Dalen and Cola are and I am really trying to plan a party she will enjoy. Nothing worse than a house full of guests and the birthday girl/boy not enjoying their own party. We all know Cola likes to observe and occaisonally get involved in activities but not often. She is a total less is more type of gal and I LOVE it! Because she is young and I don't know too many people with babies as young as her I am checking out all kinds of things she would enjoy.

I THINK (not positive) I have settled on taking her to a character breakfast, lunch or dinner. I haven't decided which meal we will do but I think it will be perfect for her. This chica LOVES to eat, she can watch the characters, touch and talk to them if she wants and I know Dalen will enjoy this too. I never realized just how many different places did these things! There are several places that do princess themed character meals and I'm just narrowing down which one we would love the best. I like what I am seeing about Cinderella's Royal Table and it comes with a photo package.

Our church began the Daniel's Fast today. My husband has asked me several times in all seriousness, "How we will survive withtout chicken??" To be honest I am not very sure. If any of you have any easy and inexpensive recipes feel free to comment and leave me ideas. I am really excited to see what God will do in our home and church through 21 days of prayer and fasting and continuing to read the New Testament in 30 days. I am also eager to see exactly how much a good diet changes your body and mood.

You might be a stay at home mom if...

2011-01-08T05:31:00.000-08:00

-pulling the blinds up and seeing the sun and taking a hot shower in decent length equates to a trip to the beach

-you can change a diaper, talk on speaker phone, hold a bottle and concentrate all while your three year old screams in the background

-you thank God you get a vacation everyday...while your kids nap

-when you're asked if you work out you answer yes even though you haven't seen the gym in years. Chasing a three year old all day and running up and down the stairs after your newly adventurous baby tries to go up them counts as cardio, right?

-You find yourself praying for the kid's bedtime to get here quickly but as soon as they are out for the night, you are too

-you find yourself staring a poopy diaper naming the unique color and wondering if they have eyeshadow in the same shade

-you use baby powder as a beauty product. it's great for absorbing the oil in your hair on the days you just don't have time to wash your hair and dry it

-cooking the most adventurous activity in your day and somedays you pray you really butcher a new recipe just to have a great story to tell your friends on the next girls night out.

-you count your post pregnancy body as a science lesson-yes, gravity exists. what was once up is most DEFINITELY now down

Ok, ladies and gents, I could go all day. Ever since Christmas Eve the kids haven't gone but a day or two without at least one of them running a fever or being sick. This time it's Dalen. He has had a fever since yesterday and now he's complaining of a sore neck (throat). At this point I'm ready to tack on a $35 co-pay category to our weekly budget. Last Saturday we had a flag football game for the youth that I missed, today it's the youth leaders advance where we map out this next semester for our leaders. Poor, Dalen! He has looked forward to going ice skating for a week with everyone after the meeting. Looks like that will be postponed.

Motherhood makes you appreciate the small things in life-warm showers, a full nights sleep, a few quiet moments in your day to read or watch a show or just stare into thing air (yes, I find myself doing that some). It also makes you miss the big things-hassle free vacations, affordable date nights as often as you wish, peaceful dinners out in restaurants, grown up movies.

What small things do you see yourself thankful for now that you are a parent? What big things do you miss without the responsibility of another life or two...or three?

Babies

2011-01-04T10:15:00.001-08:00

I am loving my new camera! Can you tell yet? I have literally been blinding the kids with its flash but they will forgive me when they put together their wedding slideshow and have PLENTY of options. ;)

Today I went to see two friends at the local hospital who had given birth to their baby boy last night. I didn't ask permission to post pics of him on my blog so I don't have any to show but let me just say-he is tiny, cute, snuggly and just so tempting...do you know where I am going with this??

No, I am not pregnant and to be honest Mario and I have both done a lot of talking about possibly being done. We have our girl, we have our boy-perfect stopping point? It's just really hard to think we could ever permanently close that possibility to our lives. I really don't know if we should close that chapter for many reasons; we're young, God may introduce us to a orphan in need of a family and provide the resources to adopt, and because sometimes things just happen. I guess this is where God and faith and free will kid of crash and explode in thin air for me.

How respectable it is to see a couple who trusts God SO much they allow him to entrust them with babies in his timing-not theirs? For the first 5 years of marriage this is how Mario and I have done things. I almost feel like to say we are done is limiting his plan or what could be or does he desire for us to choose or do we have our own personal convictions which in many cases can differ from one another. Ugh, my brain is aching! HA!

Well, speaking of God...I began reading the New Testament in 30 days yesterday. WOW! At first I was kind of speed reading my portion for the day just kind of get that liberating accomlished feel (read previous post) and then conviction stop me mid sentence and challenged me to do this for revelation, not accomplishment (or say so). So last night I stayed up until after midnight (WAAAAY passed this woman's bedtime) and read for God to reveal himself to me and he did. What a great God we serve.

Enjoy the pics up top. Sorry for the grumpy pic of Dalen but he just isn't much into picture taking these days.

The Accomplished Me

2011-01-03T08:01:00.000-08:00

The New Year is starting off with so many challenges for me! Mario is requiring all of the youth staff to read the New Testament in 30 days, our church begins our 21 day Daniel's Fast and I have a few challenges for myself as well. Do you ever make a check list and get this liberating feel of accomplishment when you complete the task? I love that feeling!

All I really care about this New Year is being an accomplished me. Everyone makes resolutions and in two weeks they can't even remember them. I have no desire to do that. I do however just desire to accomplish whatever I set out to attempt. If I don't have the full motivation to complete something I am not going to attempt it...at all. That leaves me feeling like a failure and at times settling less for an job of excellence.

What is something you have wanted to accomplish for some time but haven't?

HAPPY New Year

2011-01-01T14:24:00.001-08:00

Last night we had a big celebration for New Year's Eve at our church. We had guest singers Trent and Keisha Cory. WOW! They are awesome! Find them on iTunes or get their album they are phenomenal!

The kids were instructed to take the liberty of coming to church in their pajamas since it was going to be a late night and I must say I loved this! I think I have confessed that I think my kiddos in their p.j.s is just the cutest little sight. I especially love the skin tight ones that show just how pudgy their bellies are and I can't mention their cute bellies without talking about their tweet tushes! Cola wore a pair of her Tinkerbell ones (new for Christmas) and Dalen wore his monkey pajamas.

It was such a great night! They were supposed to stream the ball dropping and we slightly missed it but we caught the confetti aftermath! Have I ever mentioned how much I love confetti?? I mean I LOVE confetti. I only like it falling because once it has hit the floor all you think of is someone having to clean it up. So I got to see my favorite part.

So a HAPPY New Year it was for us. Enjoy some pics below of our night. But one quick story before you go. I decided I would wear red lipstick last night (I haven't done that in YEARS) without saying anything Dalen immediately noticed and said, "Hey, Mom, I really love your ladystick (lipstick). You really look awesome!" Can I just say how pretty I felt last night after that compliment. He is so sweet. Enjoy!

The kids in their pajamas!

What would New Years be without a kiss from the one you love??

We decided to go to Cracker Barrel this morning. My husband said he wants it to be a New Years Day tradition for us. It was sooo good!

Me and Cola rocking away!

It's 2011!

Adaptable

2010-12-31T11:52:00.000-08:00

After writing my last blog, I have gone back to read over it, again and again. I read the highlights of the months we have experienced in the last year and after staring at them I was totally overwhelmed by just how much change we have experienced. For some time now I have had a strong awareness of just how much I have hated change. The very thought of it makes me anxious and somewhat fearful, two feelings I rarely experience.

As we prepared for the move to Orlando, I was in constant prayer that God would open my mind, eyes and heart to no longer see change for change but to see change as growth. In the last year I have realized that change is a major part of growth and until one is adaptable to change, one won't grow. I have seen an immense amount of growth in my life, in areas that have been a constant struggle or negative place for me. It's not because of me at all but because I have allowed God to change certain conditions of my life and in return He has allowed me to grow. I thank Him for that, everyday. I am so thankful that although I can't say I embrace change with an open arms that my prayers of "help me to be adaptable" have been answered by an increased amount of strength and peace when I am uncertain.

One part of my husband's character that I honor and love is that he is always teachable, another prayer that I have prayed for many years now. God is a great teacher! If you ask Him to teach you, He will reconstruct you to be teachable and I am thankful for that as well because as I have grown to be teachable I have found that the more one learns, the more one changes and many, many times change is a significant factor that growth is increasingly present.

This blog has nothing to do with me, it is simply a part of my testimony of the work that God is continuously doing my life. When I speak of growth in my life it has only happened because God has willed it. In what areas would you like to experience growth?

2010

2010-12-30T15:51:00.000-08:00

Another year came and has almost gone! I will ask the famous question, "where has this year gone?" I really mean it! Where, in the world, has this year gone? Here is my 2010 in a nutshell...

*JAN-Lost funding for my position at my job. The job search began!
*FEB-Gave birth to my baby girl.
*MARCH-Visited Orlando for a possibly job opportunity for Mario.
*APRIL-Visit Orlando to find a house and accept new job.
*MAY-Move to Orlando.
*JUNE-Transition to a new town, church, job, and home.
*JULY-Turn 26.
*AUGUST-Realize being a stay at home is REALLY hard.
*SEPTEMBER-Dalen turns 3.
*OCTOBER-Mario turns 26 and continues to do great at his new job.
*NOVEMBER-Spend Thanksgiving in Orlando.
*DECEMBER-Enjoy a wonderful Christmas here in Orlando. Cola begins to walk.

All of that in ONE year. Something I have been doing often is going back one year to the day in my blogs. If there isn't a blog for that day I read the closest post to the day a year prior. Wow, how much God has done! Where will I be in 2011?? Where do YOU want to be a year from now??

Newness

2010-12-29T16:45:00.000-08:00

Here's a post of all things new...

Obviously, I changed my blog background. I love the bright colors of this but can anyone help me figure out why everytime I change my background the center stays tan, outlined in brown?? Ugh, I have tried everything.

Here is a picture I took from my NEW camera! Isn't the quality great?? Thanks, mom!

There are LOTS of NEW toys in our house. Here is Dalen holding his NEW Buzz Lightyear toy from mom mom and papa.

I also can't help but to mention a NEW series my pastor has been talking about. He has talked about being favored by God. Very eye opening and inspirational! We had a guest speaker last night in our youth group and he also spoke a thoughts on favor. This concept is hard for a human to grasp but it's true. I was writing a few thoughts down as I thought about unity and about how we can do more, than we can apart and this came to me, "Togetherness is a beautiful thing. What two can do, one cannot. What three can do, one wouldn't believe."