Barnabas George Hahs came to us on December 18th at 11:52pm! He is healthy and doing great. We already feel encouraged having him with us. The kids love him and love to hold him. John is so gentle and excited to see him. John actually tries to say "Barnabas" but hasn't tried to say "Luke" or "Claire" yet. They will be such buds!!
The long trial up to this point was so worth it. We have another healthy baby who is blessing us already. The months of bed rest were torture but they are over and we are moving with our new normal!!
(I was able to do it without an epidural! It is something I really wanted to do. Not sure if I will do it again or not!)
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Luke is 5!
Well, this post is a little behind but I wanted to write it anyway.
Luke turned 5 on October 7th. For his birthday he and Seth went camping on our property with one of Seth's friends who has a 11 year old son who is great with Luke. It is who Luke wanted to come and they made it work! The guys camped and ate hotdogs and rode 4 wheelers and played with the dogs. The next day Seth and Luke got to bushhog the property with Uncle Rob's tractor. I think it was the perfect birthday for our little man.
I made a pirate sword cake and decorated it with pirates and "gold" coins. My parents came over for dinner and cake. We kept the thing low key since I was on bed rest. Luke didn't seem to mind at all and had a great time.
Luke is our little man. We've been calling him that forever. (We also call him Lukerpants but I don't remember how that got started!) He is such a first born. He loves to be a leader. He plays great with Claire and John and they want to be with him. He loves to learn and be read to. Right now he also loves to write so he practices a lot. He is sensitive yet brave and courageous. Don't mess with his sister or he will take you down! (I wouldn't recommend messing with his brother either!) He is dependable, funny, curious, inquisitive, thoughtful and full of love. He will tell you he loves you anytime, just because. He is our Lightgiver and we thank the Lord everyday for such a wonderful son.
Luke turned 5 on October 7th. For his birthday he and Seth went camping on our property with one of Seth's friends who has a 11 year old son who is great with Luke. It is who Luke wanted to come and they made it work! The guys camped and ate hotdogs and rode 4 wheelers and played with the dogs. The next day Seth and Luke got to bushhog the property with Uncle Rob's tractor. I think it was the perfect birthday for our little man.
I made a pirate sword cake and decorated it with pirates and "gold" coins. My parents came over for dinner and cake. We kept the thing low key since I was on bed rest. Luke didn't seem to mind at all and had a great time.
Luke is our little man. We've been calling him that forever. (We also call him Lukerpants but I don't remember how that got started!) He is such a first born. He loves to be a leader. He plays great with Claire and John and they want to be with him. He loves to learn and be read to. Right now he also loves to write so he practices a lot. He is sensitive yet brave and courageous. Don't mess with his sister or he will take you down! (I wouldn't recommend messing with his brother either!) He is dependable, funny, curious, inquisitive, thoughtful and full of love. He will tell you he loves you anytime, just because. He is our Lightgiver and we thank the Lord everyday for such a wonderful son.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Off bed rest!
I'm 35 weeks pregnant and finally off bed rest. I keep on the meds for 2 more weeks so this little guy can grow. It is so nice to be able to take care of my kiddos and cook for my husband!
Still need more time to reflect on what has really happened the last 2 1/2 months.
Still need more time to reflect on what has really happened the last 2 1/2 months.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
R.I.P. Chestnut
We noticed on the previous Wednesday that she wasn't opening her right eye. I assumed she had an eye infection or something. Seth took her to the vet on Thursday and she had a fever and had lost weight. He got some meds for her. But, while he was there she started limping on her back right leg. We were used to her limping on her back left leg because she had a bad hip. Also, they found skin lesions we hadn't noticed before.
Friday night when Seth took the dogs out before bed she was walking like she couldn't see. She walked into the Jeep and her bowl. Totally not like her.
Saturday morning Seth took her back to the vet and an x-ray was done. She had blasto everywhere. Blasto is some kind of infection (Seth knows the details not me!). Since it was everywhere there was no hope. The vet said we could try to treat her but there was no guarantee of anything. The humane thing to do was to put her down.
So, Saturday afternoon Seth and Luke went and dug a hole out on our property. Then late afternoon the vet came to our house and took her out of her misery. We then all loaded up as a family and took her to the property and said our last good-byes and buried her. I still cry thinking of it. I really thought she would just get old and we would have to put her down but it would be a slow process. 3 days is all we had and it was fast and I didn't expect it to end like that.
Chestnut was crazy! She was scared of fireworks, storms, balloons, guns (real and toy)! But, she was our dog. We got her 1 year after we got Whitefield so they both came before the kids. We walked or ran everyday till Claire came along. Then I couldn't do as much. She loved to play frisbee and chase a tennis ball. She loved to cuddle between your legs. She also loved to have her face buried in you somewhere while you loved on her! She slept on my side of the bed and now it is empty. She was great with the kids and let them do just about anything to her.
We loved her and still talk about her. Today we were talking about how she sang with the harmonica and it sounded like she was crying!!! Luke will remember her and this time but I'm not sure Claire will. We are even happier that we have Dixie now. Whitefield seems totally fine and him and Dixie and definitely pals now.
RIP Chestnut! (April 2004 - November 2011)
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Well, life has taken a turn
Bedrest is here. Do we like? NOOOOOO!
On Sept. 20th I went to the doc for an ultrasound and was apparently having contractions. My doctor sent me to the hospital to be monitored. After being there for 3 hours or so I came home with some meds, Procardia every 6 hours. Wednesday, the 21st, went fine till evening and the contractions started again. I called the doctor and we took more meds but they wouldn't stop. We went back to the hospital and stayed the night. I finally came home Thursday afternoon and was on bedrest with my meds every 4 hours. That is where we are today, 2 weeks later.
I can get water, take a shower and throw something in the microwave but that is all. I can't pick up and hold my kids. This isn't too big for Luke and Claire as I wasn't holding them much anymore. But, John, my baby, was always on my hip! (maybe that is why is still isn't walking!!) I can't get him out of bed. I can't put him down for a nap. I can't give the kids baths. I can occasionally change a diaper but not really. I miss my snuggle bug. The big kids climb on the couch or into bed in the morning and snuggle up but John can't really do that. The couch and bed are too much fun for him and he hasn't figured out how to get off gracefully. This leads to some emotional times as one can imagine with a pregnant momma not able to hold her current baby!
But, the Lord is blessing us in incredible ways. My sister-in-law, Tara, set up a meal calendar so we have meals coming 4 nights a week with leftovers covering the other times. We also know many homeschooling families with older daughters (ages 12-15) who are coming during the day to watch/play/hold the kids. They are all lovely and kind and doing great.
Seth is taking the real beating. He has to get John ready each morning, cook breakfast and manage kitchen stuff at the other meals. He still has to walk or run the dogs every morning. Oh, and then he goes to the office for 8+ hours to be a doctor! He is AMAZING!!!! I feel helpless and like a bum but he encourages me to keep resting so our little one will be healthy and strong.
I'm also keeping a list of what I'm learning during this bedrest thing. Maybe I will write a little something once it is over. We are trying to do a photo journal type thing too of all those who are helping us. We hope that in early January we can have a HUGE party for everyone who helped us and then show all the pics.
I am reading to make the time pass. It really isn't too boring most of the time as the kids are all around and I am on the couch so I can read to them and talk to them and things. I have read "The Screwtape Letters" and "Little Women". I'm now onto "Little Men" as I just found out it is a sequel to LW.
In the end, I'm doing well with no more contractions. Baby Barnabas is healthy and growing every day. I go to the doc every week for a cervical length ultrasound and a shot. We manage how we can and are in survival mode. I have about 9 weeks left and then should be 36 weeks and off bedrest. I figure 9 weeks isn't much at all in the grand scheme of life or even a pregnancy! Plus, I want to bring my little one home if the Lord so blesses us!!!
On Sept. 20th I went to the doc for an ultrasound and was apparently having contractions. My doctor sent me to the hospital to be monitored. After being there for 3 hours or so I came home with some meds, Procardia every 6 hours. Wednesday, the 21st, went fine till evening and the contractions started again. I called the doctor and we took more meds but they wouldn't stop. We went back to the hospital and stayed the night. I finally came home Thursday afternoon and was on bedrest with my meds every 4 hours. That is where we are today, 2 weeks later.
I can get water, take a shower and throw something in the microwave but that is all. I can't pick up and hold my kids. This isn't too big for Luke and Claire as I wasn't holding them much anymore. But, John, my baby, was always on my hip! (maybe that is why is still isn't walking!!) I can't get him out of bed. I can't put him down for a nap. I can't give the kids baths. I can occasionally change a diaper but not really. I miss my snuggle bug. The big kids climb on the couch or into bed in the morning and snuggle up but John can't really do that. The couch and bed are too much fun for him and he hasn't figured out how to get off gracefully. This leads to some emotional times as one can imagine with a pregnant momma not able to hold her current baby!
But, the Lord is blessing us in incredible ways. My sister-in-law, Tara, set up a meal calendar so we have meals coming 4 nights a week with leftovers covering the other times. We also know many homeschooling families with older daughters (ages 12-15) who are coming during the day to watch/play/hold the kids. They are all lovely and kind and doing great.
Seth is taking the real beating. He has to get John ready each morning, cook breakfast and manage kitchen stuff at the other meals. He still has to walk or run the dogs every morning. Oh, and then he goes to the office for 8+ hours to be a doctor! He is AMAZING!!!! I feel helpless and like a bum but he encourages me to keep resting so our little one will be healthy and strong.
I'm also keeping a list of what I'm learning during this bedrest thing. Maybe I will write a little something once it is over. We are trying to do a photo journal type thing too of all those who are helping us. We hope that in early January we can have a HUGE party for everyone who helped us and then show all the pics.
I am reading to make the time pass. It really isn't too boring most of the time as the kids are all around and I am on the couch so I can read to them and talk to them and things. I have read "The Screwtape Letters" and "Little Women". I'm now onto "Little Men" as I just found out it is a sequel to LW.
In the end, I'm doing well with no more contractions. Baby Barnabas is healthy and growing every day. I go to the doc every week for a cervical length ultrasound and a shot. We manage how we can and are in survival mode. I have about 9 weeks left and then should be 36 weeks and off bedrest. I figure 9 weeks isn't much at all in the grand scheme of life or even a pregnancy! Plus, I want to bring my little one home if the Lord so blesses us!!!
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Claire quote and John sounds!
Yesterday the city flushed the fire hydrant in the cul-de-sac in front of our house. Needless to say Luke and Claire had a blast playing in the water! So, today they ran around in the rain and jumped in puddles. Claire calls out "Mom, I'm running in water like yesterday in the hire fydrant"!! Love Her!
John is all about animal sounds these days. He loves the cow and lion. Really, he just wants to growl so he will do it for most animals!!
John is all about animal sounds these days. He loves the cow and lion. Really, he just wants to growl so he will do it for most animals!!
Monday, September 12, 2011
let the shots begin
I started progesterone shots today. I will get one a week for the next 12 weeks or so. This is to hopefully prevent the baby from coming too early. Each of the kids has gotten earlier with John being 4 weeks early. We don't want a 6 week early baby! Luckily, the shot didn't hurt!
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
the tying of shoes
Last week sometime Luke volunteered to tie Claire's shoes and he was able to do it. Then on Sunday he tied his own church shoes. Tonight he tied some friends' shoes. I think it is official, Luke can tie shoes! He has a natural gift for tying things up (knots and hooks and stuff) and it sure came in handing with the shoes!!
Friday, August 26, 2011
tractors
John is so fun to watch. He loves things with wheels, but especially the tractors. He crawls around pushing them up and down the hall and around the living room and foyer. Seth and I just love to watch him work and make his tractor noise! (Luke has never really made car/tractor noises so it is great fun listening to John!)
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Friday, August 19, 2011
Claire is 3!
Our little girl is 3 years old. Hard to believe it is possible! I still remember thinking she was going to be a boy. (probably because we had Luke) When she was born and the doctor told us it was a girl, we said "What? Really?"!
It is sooooo much fun having a girl. She laughs like a girl and is shy like a girl! She is also very carefree. We call her our playful one. She likes to wear long skirts like mom. She plays that she has to go to work at the office or hosptial like dad. She wants to tuck her shirt in or play bad guy like Luke! She wants to mother John. We tell her she is a little lady and how ladies should act. We tell her that Luke is there to help protect her just like mom and dad. She loves it and does very well accepting help from Luke. She is learning to submit to her parents and a little to her brother, but we are also teaching her to respect her brothers. She understands so much it is kind of scary!
We had her birthday party on the 18th. Her birthday is the 22nd, but the 18th worked best. We let her pick dinner. We had mac-n-cheese (store bought, powder cheese kind), Cheez-it crackers and raisins. Seth brought her flowers which she went crazy over! We got her a Josephina doll and the boys got her some purple finger nail polish.
We love our girlie, but not prissy, sweet, playful, carefree, bright, shining and gentle little lady!
It is sooooo much fun having a girl. She laughs like a girl and is shy like a girl! She is also very carefree. We call her our playful one. She likes to wear long skirts like mom. She plays that she has to go to work at the office or hosptial like dad. She wants to tuck her shirt in or play bad guy like Luke! She wants to mother John. We tell her she is a little lady and how ladies should act. We tell her that Luke is there to help protect her just like mom and dad. She loves it and does very well accepting help from Luke. She is learning to submit to her parents and a little to her brother, but we are also teaching her to respect her brothers. She understands so much it is kind of scary!
We had her birthday party on the 18th. Her birthday is the 22nd, but the 18th worked best. We let her pick dinner. We had mac-n-cheese (store bought, powder cheese kind), Cheez-it crackers and raisins. Seth brought her flowers which she went crazy over! We got her a Josephina doll and the boys got her some purple finger nail polish.
We love our girlie, but not prissy, sweet, playful, carefree, bright, shining and gentle little lady!
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
just a glimpse into life these days
I emailed Seth the other day because there were things I wanted to tell him about that I never get to!
The kids are big talkers. Once they are in bed we get to talk some but we both just enjoy the silence. Plus, Seth is more of the morning guy and I'm a night owl. We make it work a lot but most days he is asleep on the couch at night and I sleep in the morning.
I may have to take up emailing him more often and then we can just go over highlights when necessary!
The kids are big talkers. Once they are in bed we get to talk some but we both just enjoy the silence. Plus, Seth is more of the morning guy and I'm a night owl. We make it work a lot but most days he is asleep on the couch at night and I sleep in the morning.
I may have to take up emailing him more often and then we can just go over highlights when necessary!
Thursday, August 11, 2011
time, it's all she really wants!
Claire loves to sit with mom and dad and talk or sing or tickle or whatever. The other night we put the boys down first and then sat on the couch with Claire. She chatted about from her Bible and sang. Twas a great time. I remember loving that so much. She just loves to be with us and her brothers. She is definitely our middle kid, for now.
Seth takes Claire for ice cream. She doesn't eat a lot but she will talk about the time with dad for days and days and days! She just wants us to be with her!
Seth takes Claire for ice cream. She doesn't eat a lot but she will talk about the time with dad for days and days and days! She just wants us to be with her!
the first phrase
John is "talking" all the time now. He doesn't say too many real words but jabber away he does. But, now he points at everything and says "what's that". I hadn't given him credit yet till yesterday he points at something and asks "what's that" and Luke says mom he just said "what's that". I figure if other people are understanding him then it counts! John is so curious. Some say all kids are and maybe that's true, but there is something about the curiosity of John and Luke that is different than Claire. My boys are so alike and they want to know about everything. Not just a flippant answer, no, they want to really know!
Love all my kids and their individual personalities!
Love all my kids and their individual personalities!
Monday, August 8, 2011
The reveal!
We all went to the ultrasound today. Luke and Claire love the heartbeat! This was the first time Seth had gotten to see the newest Hahs. (he did feel the baby the other night for the first time)
Well, we are for certain now. We are having another BOY! We are super duper excited. We will name him Barnabas George. We loved the name Barnabas when I was pregnant with Claire. We still love it and are going back to it. George is also a great name and is the last name of our friend and favorite singer, Nathan Clark George. We are also friends with his parents whose church we attended for a year the 1st year of Med school.
So excited the Lord is blessing us with another son!!!
Well, we are for certain now. We are having another BOY! We are super duper excited. We will name him Barnabas George. We loved the name Barnabas when I was pregnant with Claire. We still love it and are going back to it. George is also a great name and is the last name of our friend and favorite singer, Nathan Clark George. We are also friends with his parents whose church we attended for a year the 1st year of Med school.
So excited the Lord is blessing us with another son!!!
Monday, July 25, 2011
some days take chemicals!
Well, most days take chemicals. So many people have a coffee in the morning to get going. Coffee gives me a headache. I love decaf coffee but we don't usually make that in the morning. So, I get my chemicals from soda! I really love a Coke with breakfast. If I don't get it for breakfast then I like one after John goes down for a morning nap and Luke and Claire play outside. I'm not sure if it is really the caffeine or just what feels like a "treat". In the winter I love the fake, powder cappacino (sp) stuff. Either way, my days go a little better when I've had my drink. Maybe it is just mind games but, I do LOVE the taste so I will keep it up!!!
Thankful for my husband who went a got me a Coke at lunch since we had none!!
Thankful for my husband who went a got me a Coke at lunch since we had none!!
Sunday, July 24, 2011
out for ice cream with dad
Seth is always trying to do something with the kids by themselves. On Thursday he took Claire out for ice cream at a local ice cream place. She got yellow, lemon, ice cream. Seems to be enjoying it too!
Thankful for a wonderful husband who loves his children and seeks to invest in each one!
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
got that look again
We were out to dinner with my parents and brother and sister-in-law (Tara) tonight. My bro has 3 kids with another due in about 6 weeks or less. So my parents were talking to someone in another booth about all their grandkids. (i think the person asked if this was all.) My dad said "nope, we have 8 with 2 more on the way." My parents LOVE their grandkids and are totally supportive in our decision and my bro's to let the Lord bless us how He sees fit.
Anyway, dad says that we, pointing to Tara and me, are both expecting. Well, we got "the look". You know, the "are you crazy" look or you could call it "you have enough and I will look down on you" look. Tara looked at me and said "I hate that look". I agree. People think we are nuts to want kids. Our kids were totally behaving and eating their dinners and not crying or throwing things or yelling or anything. I don't get it, yet I do. Children are not seen as a blessing. Maybe a necessity to have 1 or 2 or something, but definitely not more on purpose.
The Bible calls children a blessing and arrows to fight with (Psalm 127). We are fighting a war (Eph 6). I want to train arrows to fight for THE King who sits on HIS throne. We pray the Lord continues to bless us with children. If he chooses not to we will still praise Him!
Anyway, dad says that we, pointing to Tara and me, are both expecting. Well, we got "the look". You know, the "are you crazy" look or you could call it "you have enough and I will look down on you" look. Tara looked at me and said "I hate that look". I agree. People think we are nuts to want kids. Our kids were totally behaving and eating their dinners and not crying or throwing things or yelling or anything. I don't get it, yet I do. Children are not seen as a blessing. Maybe a necessity to have 1 or 2 or something, but definitely not more on purpose.
The Bible calls children a blessing and arrows to fight with (Psalm 127). We are fighting a war (Eph 6). I want to train arrows to fight for THE King who sits on HIS throne. We pray the Lord continues to bless us with children. If he chooses not to we will still praise Him!
Monday, July 18, 2011
a quote from "Anne of Avonlea" (just finished it)
This quote (at the end) reminds me of Seth and me. We were young when we started dating (I had just turned 16 and he was still 15). We have more time as a couple than not! (at this point - 17 years of dating to 16 years before!)
"What are you thinking of , Anne?" asked Gilbert, coming down the walk....
"Of Miss Lavendar and Mr. Irving," answered Anne dreamily. "Isn't it beautiful to think how everything has turned out....how they have together again after all the years of separation and misunderstanding?"
"Yes, it's beautiful," said Gilbert, looking steadily down into Anne's uplifted face, "but wouldn't it have been more beautiful still, Anne, if there had been no separation or misunderstaning...if they had come hand in hand all the way through life, with no memories behind them but those which belonged to each other?"
Thankful for great books!
Thankful for a most wonderful husband who has shared my life with me for so long. We have truly grown up together and I LOVE him more and more and more!!!
"What are you thinking of , Anne?" asked Gilbert, coming down the walk....
"Of Miss Lavendar and Mr. Irving," answered Anne dreamily. "Isn't it beautiful to think how everything has turned out....how they have together again after all the years of separation and misunderstanding?"
"Yes, it's beautiful," said Gilbert, looking steadily down into Anne's uplifted face, "but wouldn't it have been more beautiful still, Anne, if there had been no separation or misunderstaning...if they had come hand in hand all the way through life, with no memories behind them but those which belonged to each other?"
Thankful for great books!
Thankful for a most wonderful husband who has shared my life with me for so long. We have truly grown up together and I LOVE him more and more and more!!!
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Our week alone
Seth is at work training so I decided to try to fill our week with stuff we don't normally do. We had our usual tasks like the dogs but we have enjoyed ourselves.
We did a 2 day trip to Springfield, great visit.
We got biscuits on Thursday morning and our normal donuts on Saturday.
We've walked natural with mom and kerri and the boys.
We went swimming at mom and dad's and played with cousins.
We are going to Mt. Vernon to check on a couple things and then maybe eat at Sonic!
Hopefully we will get to have breakfast with Nanny on Tuesday morning.
Can't wait for Tuesday night when Seth finally gets home!
We did a 2 day trip to Springfield, great visit.
We got biscuits on Thursday morning and our normal donuts on Saturday.
We've walked natural with mom and kerri and the boys.
We went swimming at mom and dad's and played with cousins.
We are going to Mt. Vernon to check on a couple things and then maybe eat at Sonic!
Hopefully we will get to have breakfast with Nanny on Tuesday morning.
Can't wait for Tuesday night when Seth finally gets home!
Our Gilley visit
Seth is out of town so the kids and I went to see our great friends the Gilley's in Springfield. Isaac and Luke are just 3 months apart and Malachi and Claire are just 5 months apart. The kids hit it off like they played last week when in reality it had been about 9 months! They got along so well and there were only some minor normal kid issues.
While there we were also able to go to MIC at church. I must admit this isn't my favorite thing, but we got to see other old friends and their kids and see how all have grown. We hadn't been back to church there in 2 years. Most people didn't know we even had John and no one had seen him.
It was a great visit and it left us wanting more which is the best way to end a visit!
Of course, with 5 kids 4 and under there were no pictures taken. We just enjoyed all the moments!
While there we were also able to go to MIC at church. I must admit this isn't my favorite thing, but we got to see other old friends and their kids and see how all have grown. We hadn't been back to church there in 2 years. Most people didn't know we even had John and no one had seen him.
It was a great visit and it left us wanting more which is the best way to end a visit!
Of course, with 5 kids 4 and under there were no pictures taken. We just enjoyed all the moments!
Thursday, July 14, 2011
finger nail polish...
Need I say more?!!
Well, Claire is a bit obsessed with the finger nail polish thing now since we painted her toes. I've found her in my bathroom with the polish that I had forgotten was in my drawer. Luckily, until today, she hadn't opened any. I thought I had moved it all but she found another one today, and yes it was a nice deep, bright blue! Luckily I have tile in my bathroom and the finger nail polish remover did a great job. I should have taken pictures of the floor and her foot but at the time that wasn't what I wanted to do!!
But, it does remind me of myself! When I was about Claire's age I got into my mom's pink finger nail polish and got it all over her sewing machine. It didn't come off. In fact, I can still go see it today!
Claire is such a sweet girl and was only disciplined for being in our room not the accident with the polish!
I LOVE HER even now and I LOVE she wants to be a girl!!!!!
Well, Claire is a bit obsessed with the finger nail polish thing now since we painted her toes. I've found her in my bathroom with the polish that I had forgotten was in my drawer. Luckily, until today, she hadn't opened any. I thought I had moved it all but she found another one today, and yes it was a nice deep, bright blue! Luckily I have tile in my bathroom and the finger nail polish remover did a great job. I should have taken pictures of the floor and her foot but at the time that wasn't what I wanted to do!!
But, it does remind me of myself! When I was about Claire's age I got into my mom's pink finger nail polish and got it all over her sewing machine. It didn't come off. In fact, I can still go see it today!
Claire is such a sweet girl and was only disciplined for being in our room not the accident with the polish!
I LOVE HER even now and I LOVE she wants to be a girl!!!!!
Monday, July 11, 2011
Saturday, July 9, 2011
well, we may know
We may have accidentally found out the gender of our new little one. I don't think we were going to find out, but I had an ultrasound yesterday and one of the pics... Not sure we are going to tell anyone just yet. The important thing is all looks fine for now and we are praying the baby stays inside till at least December but preferably till the due date in January!
painted toes!
Claire has been asking me to give her pink toes for a while now. There hasn't been a good time to do it until today. John was napping and Seth and Luke were running errands, so Claire and I painted our toes! It was the first time for her and she LOVES it!!
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
4th of July 2011 - grillin' out, 4 wheelers and guns!
We went out to the Martin's for the 4th. There were several other families. The kids played and road 4 wheelers. The ladies got to talk because the older kids played with the younger kids, such a blessing! We cooked out and ate yummy food! Then the men with their boys shot guns. I think they were in heaven!
We headed back to our house about 9pm and watched the fireworks from our front yard. Pretty much a perfect 4th of July!
some great memories:
1. Joe Branch ~11years old, coming inside the house and sitting down and playing with John, just because
2. Seeing Claire sitting on Danielle's lap (Danielle is 13)
3. Hearing Bryce call for Luke when he was ready to drive the lawn mower and trailer to take the guns back in the field! (Bryce is 10 1/2)
We headed back to our house about 9pm and watched the fireworks from our front yard. Pretty much a perfect 4th of July!
some great memories:
1. Joe Branch ~11years old, coming inside the house and sitting down and playing with John, just because
2. Seeing Claire sitting on Danielle's lap (Danielle is 13)
3. Hearing Bryce call for Luke when he was ready to drive the lawn mower and trailer to take the guns back in the field! (Bryce is 10 1/2)
healthy snacks and some freezer cooking
So, I decided to do a little freezer cooking and snack making. I got some brown bag burritos made (~24) and put in the freezer. Then, today I made some whole wheat, cinnamon and oat squares. They are kind of like a chewy graham cracker (see below). They are tasty and hopefully the kids will like them too!
Thursday, June 30, 2011
a treat
Yesterday just after I put John down for his nap my mom showed up. She took Luke and Claire to the park and to get slushies! I had about 1 1/2 hours by myself at home. What a blessing. I was finally able to go through Claire's drawers and transistion some clothes. Now she has less to change into each day. Believe me, this is big, because the girl changes ALL the time!! Then, yesterday afternoon all the kids napped!
Today I was able to run out with my mom and get some fabric. Seth is off on Thursday afternoons so he was home with the kiddos. My mom is going to make me some skirts that will grow with me and a matching dress for Claire.
Tonight we are all going to go swim at my parent's house. What a great way to get ready for a long weekend!
Today I was able to run out with my mom and get some fabric. Seth is off on Thursday afternoons so he was home with the kiddos. My mom is going to make me some skirts that will grow with me and a matching dress for Claire.
Tonight we are all going to go swim at my parent's house. What a great way to get ready for a long weekend!
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Homeschool conference
Seth and I got to attend a homeschool conference last week. We LOVED it. We loved the speakers and the information we learned. A lot of it wasn't really about homeschooling but it was all great. We especially enjoyed Voddie Baucham.
We got to enjoy the time with Rob and Tara and the Griffith family.
We also got to have time without the kids. It was much needed and will happen again!
We got to enjoy the time with Rob and Tara and the Griffith family.
We also got to have time without the kids. It was much needed and will happen again!
Monday, June 20, 2011
family games and inside jokes!
It is fun to have family games and jokes. It is also amazing how young the kids can be when they join in.
Seth started this thing about food or random animals in the kids' armpits and belly buttons. Not sure where he came up with it but the kids love it. We have mac-n-cheese or raccoons or dragons or popcorn or whatever else you can think of pop up in armpits and belly buttons! So we do armpit checks! :-) This happens a lot at meal times. So Seth or one of the kids will say "armpit check" and then the arms go up! It is quite fun. Well, the other day we were doing it and John put his arms up too! It was great. He does it with one or both arms every time now and Luke and Claire love it and tickle him and he laughs.
Another one is check to make sure bellies are soft. Seth does this one to the kids too. He makes sure their bellies are soft enought to eat or play outside or play blocks or whatever. The other day Claire went with me to the doctor. She was asked something about my belly (we were hearing the heartbeat of the baby) and Claire says "no, mommy's belly is too soft"! The NP didn't get it, but I did and it was great. Love her!!
thankful for
- a husband who makes up games for our family
- kids who love to play the games
- a little one who wants to join the fun
Seth started this thing about food or random animals in the kids' armpits and belly buttons. Not sure where he came up with it but the kids love it. We have mac-n-cheese or raccoons or dragons or popcorn or whatever else you can think of pop up in armpits and belly buttons! So we do armpit checks! :-) This happens a lot at meal times. So Seth or one of the kids will say "armpit check" and then the arms go up! It is quite fun. Well, the other day we were doing it and John put his arms up too! It was great. He does it with one or both arms every time now and Luke and Claire love it and tickle him and he laughs.
Another one is check to make sure bellies are soft. Seth does this one to the kids too. He makes sure their bellies are soft enought to eat or play outside or play blocks or whatever. The other day Claire went with me to the doctor. She was asked something about my belly (we were hearing the heartbeat of the baby) and Claire says "no, mommy's belly is too soft"! The NP didn't get it, but I did and it was great. Love her!!
thankful for
- a husband who makes up games for our family
- kids who love to play the games
- a little one who wants to join the fun
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Monday, June 13, 2011
Anniversary - 13
13 years ago today Seth and I got married. We were very young! The Lord has been gracious. We have grown up together (not apart) and are happier now than we were on that day.
13 years on the 13th -- fun, fun!
13 years on the 13th -- fun, fun!
what happens?!
Well, there has been a delay here. It is amazing how fast weeks go by! The internet was down for 9 days. I missed it but not tons. I did feel a little disconnected from the world since I don't have a fancy phone and don't watch TV. Oh well, I managaed!
We went swimming at mom and dad's the other day. the kids LOVED it. Claire and Luke had floaties and wouldn't let us hold on to them! They did amazing. John loved his little raft. We had a great family night.
We also got another 4 wheeler. This one is a 90 and it is for Luke. He now has a real 4 wheeler to take out to the property with Seth's 4 wheeler. He is in heaven.
Also, last week they started building the house across the street. Luke came running in last monday screaming about the excavator coming down the road. Needless to say, we had 3 days of entertainment! Luke got to ride on the excavator and fill a dump truck. He also got a nail apron and got to watch a bunch of concrete be poured for the basement. The man in charge was so wonderful and answered Luke's questions and showed him all sorts of things. It was a great time! We are looking forward to the next step of the house and the next big machines we get to see!
We went swimming at mom and dad's the other day. the kids LOVED it. Claire and Luke had floaties and wouldn't let us hold on to them! They did amazing. John loved his little raft. We had a great family night.
We also got another 4 wheeler. This one is a 90 and it is for Luke. He now has a real 4 wheeler to take out to the property with Seth's 4 wheeler. He is in heaven.
Also, last week they started building the house across the street. Luke came running in last monday screaming about the excavator coming down the road. Needless to say, we had 3 days of entertainment! Luke got to ride on the excavator and fill a dump truck. He also got a nail apron and got to watch a bunch of concrete be poured for the basement. The man in charge was so wonderful and answered Luke's questions and showed him all sorts of things. It was a great time! We are looking forward to the next step of the house and the next big machines we get to see!
Friday, May 27, 2011
Thursday, May 26, 2011
heartbeat
I saw and heard the heartbeat of our little one today. I had seen and heard it last week but they wanted to see me again to make sure the rate went up. Well, it went up and the baby looked bigger! I took Luke with me today and he was so excited. He always loved going with me to my appointments for John. He loved hearing the heartbeat. When we heard it today and started jumping around with arms in the air saying "yay!". He is so much fun and loves babies! He is a wonderful big brother.
Now we just continue to pray for the little one that he/she will continue to grow and all goes well, knowing the Lord is in control.
Now we just continue to pray for the little one that he/she will continue to grow and all goes well, knowing the Lord is in control.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Another Blessing!
We found out Tuesday that we are expecting another baby. We are so excited! The kids are excited and are already asking if it is a boy or girl! Luke says he wants a girl. Of course, he wanted John to be a girl too. My due date is in early January. I go to the doctor Monday. I'm only about 5 weeks along so things could change. This is my 7th pregnancy. We are praying we get to hold this little one here on earth and not have to wait till heaven like we have to for 3 others. The Lord is in control and we trust He will do whatever he sees fit to make us more like Christ.
Some signs that things may be going well: I've burned the bacon. I did that when pregnant with the Luke and Claire. I totally messed up biscuits that I've made many times before. My cooking seems to go for a while when I'm pregnant and things have worked out so we are seeing this as positive! Also, my thyroid was off so that is also a sign that this may be a healthy pregnancy.
We can't wait to meet our new little one!!! We love him/her already!
Some signs that things may be going well: I've burned the bacon. I did that when pregnant with the Luke and Claire. I totally messed up biscuits that I've made many times before. My cooking seems to go for a while when I'm pregnant and things have worked out so we are seeing this as positive! Also, my thyroid was off so that is also a sign that this may be a healthy pregnancy.
We can't wait to meet our new little one!!! We love him/her already!
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
still trying to get up early
Well, I'm not making 4:30am everyday. I have been getting up by 5:30am which does allow me to get ready for the day and talk with Seth. This is a nice way to start the day since we never know if we will have a chance to talk uninterrupted till 8:30pm on normal days! I would like to get up a little earlier so I can get some things done. Still working on getting to bed earlier but that is soooo hard for me.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
A new way to start a day
Well, Seth and I have been trying to figure out the best schedule for us. He is a morning, and by morning I mean early morning, person. I am a night person. If we function this way then we have hardly any time when we are both awake and the children aren't. So, I started going to bed earlier but then I wasn't getting some necessary things done that must be done when children sleep (i.e. ironing, going through toys or clothes, etc). So, we decided to make me a morning person! One day down and I like it already. We got up about 4:30am. Seth was able to read and got a shower. About 5am I started ironing and Seth read and read some to me and we got to talk all while I ironed!
We are kind of stuck in our room if we don't want the kids up because the dogs are in our room and get loud once we leave or if they leave the room! We have a coffee pot in our room and will probably get a mini refrigerator! It is our little parent hang out! I'm excited to have this time to talk with Seth or get things done or just read on my own.
Luke was in our room a little after 6am and Claire followed closely behind. The great news was I was ready for the day and most the ironing had been done. I haven't had this dread all day of when would I gake care of things. I know I have an hour or so in the morning to knock out something and then everything else will fall into place!
Thankful for:
--my wonderful, encouraging husband who doesn't mind helping me get up early because I need help!
--the sunshine
--having the Bible read to me by my husband while I iron -- sure seems to fit the biblical model for both of us!
We are kind of stuck in our room if we don't want the kids up because the dogs are in our room and get loud once we leave or if they leave the room! We have a coffee pot in our room and will probably get a mini refrigerator! It is our little parent hang out! I'm excited to have this time to talk with Seth or get things done or just read on my own.
Luke was in our room a little after 6am and Claire followed closely behind. The great news was I was ready for the day and most the ironing had been done. I haven't had this dread all day of when would I gake care of things. I know I have an hour or so in the morning to knock out something and then everything else will fall into place!
Thankful for:
--my wonderful, encouraging husband who doesn't mind helping me get up early because I need help!
--the sunshine
--having the Bible read to me by my husband while I iron -- sure seems to fit the biblical model for both of us!
Monday, May 2, 2011
And a new day begins - contentment in all
We had a hard weekend but it ended gloriously! We went to a friend's church and had lunch there. The kids all napped. Then we went to my brother's house for dinner. It is so refreshing to go there and talk and share and release some parenting angst. The kids played great and we enjoyed some great conversation. They were so encouraging to us.
We all rested well last night and slept till after 6:30!
I'm reminded again that staying on the kids right away for disobedience actually limits the disobedience even when it seems the discipline is a hassle. Don't just talk, do it! That is an cheer for myself.
Also, I'm feeling content in our children. We have wanted children forever and it took a while for it to happen. When Luke was born I couldn't wait for the next. When Claire was born I couldn't wait for the next. When John was born I couldn't wait for the next. We still would love more. But, I am finally happy with the blessing we have. If the Lord doesn't bless us with more I'm ok with that. This is a great place to be!
Thankful for
--my children obeying better after a couple rounds
--rest
--rain that makes things grow
--the Lord giving me contentment and me finally accepting it!
We all rested well last night and slept till after 6:30!
I'm reminded again that staying on the kids right away for disobedience actually limits the disobedience even when it seems the discipline is a hassle. Don't just talk, do it! That is an cheer for myself.
Also, I'm feeling content in our children. We have wanted children forever and it took a while for it to happen. When Luke was born I couldn't wait for the next. When Claire was born I couldn't wait for the next. When John was born I couldn't wait for the next. We still would love more. But, I am finally happy with the blessing we have. If the Lord doesn't bless us with more I'm ok with that. This is a great place to be!
Thankful for
--my children obeying better after a couple rounds
--rest
--rain that makes things grow
--the Lord giving me contentment and me finally accepting it!
Friday, April 29, 2011
It just happens
I really do want to blog consistently. But, life seems to get in the way!
Today, all 3 kids and 3 dogs were up by 6:10am. I was already out of bed and Seth, of course, was up and reading in the living room. The big kids went straight outside since it wasn't raining!!! I made a hot drink and never got to taste it. Seems that is how days go. Then I had a bit of a breakdown during breakfast. I'm pretty sure that is my first non-pregnant one so that is something to be thankful for. My husband did all he could to comfort me and he is the best! He even made some decaf coffee for me before he left for work. I'm enjoying it now.
Thankful for
--sunshine
--Irish Cream coffee
--kids resting (John was back down for a nap by 8am)
--kids learning to build and play without help
Today, all 3 kids and 3 dogs were up by 6:10am. I was already out of bed and Seth, of course, was up and reading in the living room. The big kids went straight outside since it wasn't raining!!! I made a hot drink and never got to taste it. Seems that is how days go. Then I had a bit of a breakdown during breakfast. I'm pretty sure that is my first non-pregnant one so that is something to be thankful for. My husband did all he could to comfort me and he is the best! He even made some decaf coffee for me before he left for work. I'm enjoying it now.
Thankful for
--sunshine
--Irish Cream coffee
--kids resting (John was back down for a nap by 8am)
--kids learning to build and play without help
sewing 101 - a belt
Friday, April 8, 2011
In which we enjoy the weather
Enjoying a Spring evening: grilling steak, corn on the cob, walking the property with the family! No pictures this time but hopefully next time I will have a shot of the dogs, kids and 4 wheeler on the property!!
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Indian Food
Well, I LOVE Indian food. I used to eat it when I worked for a company in St. Louis. Then in Springfield there was a place Seth and I would go. But, here in rural southern Illinois there is nothing. I found a recipe for Indian Butter Chicken done in the crockpot. It is soooo yummy. We've cooked it a few times. I fixed it last night and even found a simple Naan recipe to go with it. The kids sort of ate it and Seth and I loved it. We called it our Indian date eventhough we were at home with the kids!
thankful for
--a crockpot
--my wonderful husband going to Wal Mart during his lunch to get me coconut milk for the meal
--the kids liking rice, our meal potential has now exploded!
--leftovers - had the food for lunch today and will still get it again later this week!
thankful for
--a crockpot
--my wonderful husband going to Wal Mart during his lunch to get me coconut milk for the meal
--the kids liking rice, our meal potential has now exploded!
--leftovers - had the food for lunch today and will still get it again later this week!
Monday, March 14, 2011
Thursday, March 10, 2011
trash day thoughts!
Yesterday was trash day. I LOVE trash day. I just feel clean once all the trash is taken from the garage and put out at the end of the driveway. It always makes the garage feel more organized because it always seems we have some stray boxes that go out.
Anyway, the kids help with the trash. They help me get the trash from the bathrooms and the diapers from the Diaper Genie. This week Luke helped even more. He hopped on his 4 wheeler and loaded up the extra bags in the garage and took them to the end of the drive while Seth took the garbage can out. Later he backed the 4 wheeler up to the door and we tossed on one more bag and the diapers. He drove them out for me. Later, he went out and brought the can back to the garage. What a great helper!!
Luke is getting so big and he LOVES to work and help. He is so proud to been of service and I was glad I didn't have to go out and leave the 3 kids inside for a minute. (They always seems to get extra excited when I step out for a second!!)
Thankful for:
--my husband who always takes the garbage can out
--Luke for doing the other trash
--Claire for running down the hall to grab a trash bag from a bathroom
Anyway, the kids help with the trash. They help me get the trash from the bathrooms and the diapers from the Diaper Genie. This week Luke helped even more. He hopped on his 4 wheeler and loaded up the extra bags in the garage and took them to the end of the drive while Seth took the garbage can out. Later he backed the 4 wheeler up to the door and we tossed on one more bag and the diapers. He drove them out for me. Later, he went out and brought the can back to the garage. What a great helper!!
Luke is getting so big and he LOVES to work and help. He is so proud to been of service and I was glad I didn't have to go out and leave the 3 kids inside for a minute. (They always seems to get extra excited when I step out for a second!!)
Thankful for:
--my husband who always takes the garbage can out
--Luke for doing the other trash
--Claire for running down the hall to grab a trash bag from a bathroom
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
some thoughts for today
I think we having a growing boy. Luke's lunch: 8 chicken nuggets, 1/2 a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, 1/2 a can of fruit, chips and milk!
Conversation with Claire today during John's bath:
me - "don't play in the water"
Claire - "pretend"
me - "pretend means not real"
Claire - "pretend real" - smile!
John is taking an afternoon nap. He didn't yesterday and I have a feeling we will be down to 1 nap sooner than I really want. Something about our boys and their lack of need for sleep!
Conversation with Claire today during John's bath:
me - "don't play in the water"
Claire - "pretend"
me - "pretend means not real"
Claire - "pretend real" - smile!
John is taking an afternoon nap. He didn't yesterday and I have a feeling we will be down to 1 nap sooner than I really want. Something about our boys and their lack of need for sleep!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
shaker
John loves rattles! He is our first to like them. In fact he loves to shake anything that makes noise right by his ear. He will pick up the toy, which is sometimes a dump truck, and shake it. He then moves his hand up and shakes it next to his ear. He will just sit there a smile while he does it. What a blessing to see him content in simple things. It is also neat to seem him enjoy something the other two didn't. What a joy to watch him grow into a little boy and not a baby!
Friday, March 4, 2011
the love of reading
We love to read! We love books! We rarely watch TV or movies. We would rather read. Sometimes we sit and read our own books. Other times Seth will read to me. We typically read non-fiction and it is usually theology. I do love biographies so I try to throw one of those in.
I enjoy some fiction, the old stuff. I tried a newer book recently, but I just couldn't get going. And since I have to give up sleep to read anything, I decided it wasn't worth it. I also like to have a couple books going at a time. Right now I'm finishing up "Holiness of God" by Sproul. I also just started "Little Women" and a history overview of the Scottish Reformation time period.
The kids love books too. Luke has loved reading since he was born, or so it seems! Lately he doesn't mind it but would rather be working on something. Claire is in love with reading. I have to tell her many times that we have to stop. Who would have thought I would tell my kids "we can't read right now"!
We go to the library and check out a bunch. I finally created a list from some blog posts and from the Five in a Row curriculum so I could go in with good books to get instead of trying to find some with the kids.
I have also read most of the Narnia series to Luke. We are about 1/2 through the last book. I'm sure he doesn't remember a lot, but he is only 4! I haven't read them to Claire yet. I can't wait to read them again to the kids. Seth has been reading "Treasure Island" to us (mainly to Luke). They are going to start "The Swiss Family Robinson" next. Claire hasn't been into the "big" books yet. She will sit through some long ones but they have pictures. I'm not sure how to get her started since it is harder to get her and Luke to sit together for a long one!
I love that we are passing our love of reading on to our children. I pray that they will love words so they can love the Word. Reading is so important because that is what God gave us, His Word, and the kids must learn to love it.
Thankful for
--snuggling with Claire and reading some of her favorite books tonight
--reading the Narnia books with Luke
--reading the truck book and the animal books to John
--the Kindle, which helps limit the number of books we need to physically own since we have limited shelf space!
I enjoy some fiction, the old stuff. I tried a newer book recently, but I just couldn't get going. And since I have to give up sleep to read anything, I decided it wasn't worth it. I also like to have a couple books going at a time. Right now I'm finishing up "Holiness of God" by Sproul. I also just started "Little Women" and a history overview of the Scottish Reformation time period.
The kids love books too. Luke has loved reading since he was born, or so it seems! Lately he doesn't mind it but would rather be working on something. Claire is in love with reading. I have to tell her many times that we have to stop. Who would have thought I would tell my kids "we can't read right now"!
We go to the library and check out a bunch. I finally created a list from some blog posts and from the Five in a Row curriculum so I could go in with good books to get instead of trying to find some with the kids.
I have also read most of the Narnia series to Luke. We are about 1/2 through the last book. I'm sure he doesn't remember a lot, but he is only 4! I haven't read them to Claire yet. I can't wait to read them again to the kids. Seth has been reading "Treasure Island" to us (mainly to Luke). They are going to start "The Swiss Family Robinson" next. Claire hasn't been into the "big" books yet. She will sit through some long ones but they have pictures. I'm not sure how to get her started since it is harder to get her and Luke to sit together for a long one!
I love that we are passing our love of reading on to our children. I pray that they will love words so they can love the Word. Reading is so important because that is what God gave us, His Word, and the kids must learn to love it.
Thankful for
--snuggling with Claire and reading some of her favorite books tonight
--reading the Narnia books with Luke
--reading the truck book and the animal books to John
--the Kindle, which helps limit the number of books we need to physically own since we have limited shelf space!
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
sickness again
Well, Luke and John are sick again. John woke up sick Thursday afternoon. Luke woke up in the middle of the night Sunday. Luke has had the stomach bug which is his norm. He slept most of the day Monday and is napping again now. He has eaten today and seems much better. John is coughing and runny and stuff. He seems better and is napping well. I'm hoping his is a tooth thing but who knows. Now I'm just waiting for Claire to get sick.
Thankful for:
--kids who are well
--Luke resting on the couch
--John eating well even though he is sick
--Claire being concerned for her brothers
--getting to be home bodies!
Thankful for:
--kids who are well
--Luke resting on the couch
--John eating well even though he is sick
--Claire being concerned for her brothers
--getting to be home bodies!
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Crazy Daisies
Claire and I did our normal Saturday morning grocery run. We saw these flowers and both wanted them! I don't think I've been this excited for Spring before. (We also got more strawberries!)
Thursday, February 24, 2011
behind again
Well, I am beind again. I was doing well and now it has been 2 weeks.
Tonight we are having some new friends over for dinner. Very exciting! We are having chicken and noodles, salad and bread. For dessert wer are having strawberry pie. It is a transition meal: warm for winter and refreshing for spring!
Tonight we are having some new friends over for dinner. Very exciting! We are having chicken and noodles, salad and bread. For dessert wer are having strawberry pie. It is a transition meal: warm for winter and refreshing for spring!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
"preetec me?"
"Preetec me?" The sweet question from Claire most every night and other times during the day.
We are teaching our children that boys/men protect girls/ladies/women. Luke knows it and Claire knows it.
If Claire get scared she will say "daddy preetec me?" and assure her he does and will. She also says/asks "Luke preetec me?" and we tell her he does too.
We were reading "The Silver Chair" the other day and Claire saw Puddleglum, Eustace and Rilian fighting the serpent and Jill watching. So Claire asked if Puddleglum protects her. I told her he would if necessary. She asked why. I told her because gentlemen protect ladies and she is a little lady. Now she says "Puddleglum preetec me, little lady".
I love my sweet, innocent, carefree, playful daughter. I pray she always remands this way living in the security of her father and brothers until the day she lives in the security of her husband.
thankful for:
- boys who want to protect
- a girl who wants to be protected
We are teaching our children that boys/men protect girls/ladies/women. Luke knows it and Claire knows it.
If Claire get scared she will say "daddy preetec me?" and assure her he does and will. She also says/asks "Luke preetec me?" and we tell her he does too.
We were reading "The Silver Chair" the other day and Claire saw Puddleglum, Eustace and Rilian fighting the serpent and Jill watching. So Claire asked if Puddleglum protects her. I told her he would if necessary. She asked why. I told her because gentlemen protect ladies and she is a little lady. Now she says "Puddleglum preetec me, little lady".
I love my sweet, innocent, carefree, playful daughter. I pray she always remands this way living in the security of her father and brothers until the day she lives in the security of her husband.
thankful for:
- boys who want to protect
- a girl who wants to be protected
Friday, February 4, 2011
Happy Birthday Dad!
Today is my Dad's birthday. He is so great and I love him. He is always thinking of others and wanting to take care of his kids (including in-laws whom he treats as his) and grandkids.
And, he loves my mom. -- can't ask for more than that as a kiddo!
And, he loves my mom. -- can't ask for more than that as a kiddo!
hard and easy - but progress is seen
There are hard times being a mom. Parenting little ones is tiring work.
What keeps it all going is prayer and the encouraging words of my husband (who is amazing!).
Also, seeing progress is very helpful.
Luke is amazing in church now. We rarely need to correct/discipline him during the service. He is getting better at singing along and he always prays when we pray. He listens very well to the sermons without toys, books, or drawing. This is great to see and reminder that Claire and John will get there one day too.
Also, during the hard stretches in parenting, it is so nice to know that you have done this before and the child has stopped many of the past problems. This is great when the next child comes along and starts doing those same things. If I step back and think for a minute then I can remember that this too shall pass if I believe the Bible and love/discipline the child.
I'm thankful that my children:
- are so polite to each other and others
- encourage each other
- compliment other people
- are very hospitable
- love their daddy (i love him too!)
What keeps it all going is prayer and the encouraging words of my husband (who is amazing!).
Also, seeing progress is very helpful.
Luke is amazing in church now. We rarely need to correct/discipline him during the service. He is getting better at singing along and he always prays when we pray. He listens very well to the sermons without toys, books, or drawing. This is great to see and reminder that Claire and John will get there one day too.
Also, during the hard stretches in parenting, it is so nice to know that you have done this before and the child has stopped many of the past problems. This is great when the next child comes along and starts doing those same things. If I step back and think for a minute then I can remember that this too shall pass if I believe the Bible and love/discipline the child.
I'm thankful that my children:
- are so polite to each other and others
- encourage each other
- compliment other people
- are very hospitable
- love their daddy (i love him too!)
crazy week because of weather
Well, the week was to be filled with snow and ice. We did get ice but not snow. On Tuesday night we decided we better head over to my parents in case the power went out. We don't have a generator so we couldn't keep us and the kids warm all night if the power did go. So, we packed up the kids and stuff for a couple days, the dogs and food. Thankfully, or not thankfully, the power did go out. For our area it was only for 8 hours or so. We had friends who didn't have power for days and still know of some who won't have power for a couple more days.
Now it is Friday and nothing was accomplished this week. I guess this happens and it is ok. We are home now and maybe next time we will try our fireplace and see if it keeps us warm!
Now it is Friday and nothing was accomplished this week. I guess this happens and it is ok. We are home now and maybe next time we will try our fireplace and see if it keeps us warm!
Sunday, January 30, 2011
starting the week off ahead
Well, I just finished a double batch of meatballs and a taco mixture. That gives us food for our dinners this week with only minimal prep left. I also have meatballs for the freezer. What a great way to start the week. Having this done should make nap time more restful and dinner time more peaceful. If it works well, I will try to do something like this each weekend.
Now off to bracing for this major winter storm that is supposed to come, but I always wonder if it can be as bad as people think. We shall see!
Now off to bracing for this major winter storm that is supposed to come, but I always wonder if it can be as bad as people think. We shall see!
Saturday, January 29, 2011
The orange Thomas t-shirt is now retired
Luke has had a favorite shirt for a long time. It is this orange Thomas the Tank Engine t-shirt I got at Target about 2 years ago. It is a size 3T so it was big at first. Then he grew into it. Then it started getting to small. He didn't seem to care and I didn't either. He would wear it all the time. If he couldn't find it because I had put it in the laundry then he would keep asking for it till it was clean. Once it was clean he would ask to wear it. Usually he had to wait till the next day since he would already be dressed.
Well, I did laundry the other day and washed "the" shirt. It was in our room in a basket to be put away. The next morning Luke needed clothes to wear and John was still sleeping so he went to our room to see what was available. He found the Thomas shirt, so he of course put it on. He put on a long sleeve shirt too since it was cold. He went to the living room and told Seth he had to change because the shirt kept riding up his belly and thus was too small. He then came to the room and told me the same thing.
I must admit I got a little teary-eyed. Luke LOVED that shirt and I will always remember him wearing it. (We had his 4 yr pics taken in it.) But, the shirt is now retired. It is one of those things that no one else will wear. I will save it. It may not last till he has children, but, I just can see putting anyone else in that shirt, the orange Thomas shirt.
Well, I did laundry the other day and washed "the" shirt. It was in our room in a basket to be put away. The next morning Luke needed clothes to wear and John was still sleeping so he went to our room to see what was available. He found the Thomas shirt, so he of course put it on. He put on a long sleeve shirt too since it was cold. He went to the living room and told Seth he had to change because the shirt kept riding up his belly and thus was too small. He then came to the room and told me the same thing.
I must admit I got a little teary-eyed. Luke LOVED that shirt and I will always remember him wearing it. (We had his 4 yr pics taken in it.) But, the shirt is now retired. It is one of those things that no one else will wear. I will save it. It may not last till he has children, but, I just can see putting anyone else in that shirt, the orange Thomas shirt.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
New design
I changed the background of the blog. Now it looks like our drawing room! Maybe one day I will get a picture of our room and use it!
potty training
Let the potty training begin! Claire started yesterday and has done well today. I have her in pull-ups. They are great because they have princesses on them so we call them princess underwear. She doesn't want to get them yucky. Also, she gets a jelly bean for going on the potty. We will see how it goes. Hopefully, we are smoothish sailing from here.
zipper pants
Claire is obsessed with zipper pants! She always wants to wear pants, but especially jeans, that zip. She will ask other people about their pants. On occasion she will even look for the zipper. This can be quite embarassing for the adult and for us! She means no harm or anything. She just loves zipper pants. She even points it out on the people in books we read.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
My Review of Lamaze(R) Clutch Cube
Originally submitted at One Step Ahead
This is a very clever, high-quality clutch cube: satisfying to hold, intriguing to explore, just bursting with interesting fabrics, sounds, and activities. Includes clacking teethers, crinkles, rattle, and textures. (Can you find the secret peek-a-boo mirror?) Great stroller/travel toy, with handy ...
Love it!
By Leslie from IL on 1/15/2011
Pros: Durable, Colorful and Fun, Holds Attention
Best Uses: Crawlers, Infants
Describe Yourself: Parent of Two or More Children
We bought this for our 7 month old. He loves it and will play with it forever. The best part is that is has many different things to play with, but it all stays together. You don't have to worry about lots of little toys scattered around. The rings stay attached and it makes fun noises. Plus, there is a tag on it, which seems to be my son's favorite part!
(legalese)
Body Instruments
Seth is such a great dad. He is creative and seems to always come up with something new for the kids. One thing the kids love is when he plays body instruments.
So far we have: stomach piano, armpit guitar, upright foot (which is the favorite), belly harmonica. I think there might be more, but I can't remember them right now.
The kids go nuts and ask for them all the time.
I am grateful for a husband who is a great daddy.
So far we have: stomach piano, armpit guitar, upright foot (which is the favorite), belly harmonica. I think there might be more, but I can't remember them right now.
The kids go nuts and ask for them all the time.
I am grateful for a husband who is a great daddy.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Another day
Well, yesterday went so well I should have known today would be a challenge. It was. I lost my cool a couple times, but at least not till this evening after dinner.
The kids get so wound up they can't/don't listen to me. They feed off each other and I can't seem to get it stopped. I discipline but it seems they don't care. Finally, I got them to settle and then I fed John and put him to bed. Then I read to Luke and Claire and that helped them relax too. Now I need to wind down. I may have a soda. I should go to bed, but this is the quiet time of the day.
I love my children and all the life they bring to the house. It is just hard to have noise and talking all day. I need to remember what a gift they are and to be full of life like them. I don't need "my time". I must enjoy my children and teach them as they teach me.
Loving all three, Luke, Claire and John.
Loving my husband who works hard to provide and protect us.
The kids get so wound up they can't/don't listen to me. They feed off each other and I can't seem to get it stopped. I discipline but it seems they don't care. Finally, I got them to settle and then I fed John and put him to bed. Then I read to Luke and Claire and that helped them relax too. Now I need to wind down. I may have a soda. I should go to bed, but this is the quiet time of the day.
I love my children and all the life they bring to the house. It is just hard to have noise and talking all day. I need to remember what a gift they are and to be full of life like them. I don't need "my time". I must enjoy my children and teach them as they teach me.
Loving all three, Luke, Claire and John.
Loving my husband who works hard to provide and protect us.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
trying to make this a habit
Not much to say today. I would like to make this blogging thing a habit so I thought I would write.
Kids were a little crazy but at least they enjoy playing together. John loves to watch Luke and Claire run around.
We had Pizza Man for dinner which is a great treat.
Kids are in bed and now I can relax some and fold laundry!
Kids were a little crazy but at least they enjoy playing together. John loves to watch Luke and Claire run around.
We had Pizza Man for dinner which is a great treat.
Kids are in bed and now I can relax some and fold laundry!
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Yesterday - Jan. 3. 2011
January 3, 2000 -- our first miscarriage
January 3, 2011 -- eleven years later
Why do I know this date? I don't know. I have the memory and can't seem to forget it.
Back in 2000 it was so sad and painful and surreal to have a miscarriage. I didn't know people had them. Since then we have had 2 more miscarriages and 3 precious children. Each year the memory actually gets harder. The more children we have and the older they get the sadder it is to think we have lost 3. Back then, I didn't know what I was missing. Now I know and it breaks my heart to think about it.
We named the 3 we lost -- Caleb, Hannah and Peter. I finally go a day or more without thinking about them. This is a recent development. I used to think about at least once a day. I wasn't dwelling on the past and wondering why. I just remembered.
I praise the Lord for the 3 little ones we have now and what a blessing they are to us.
NCG has a song that sums it all up "Oh my Child". The line that gets me every time is "It's hard to let just as soon as you know you've been given a life."
January 3, 2011 -- eleven years later
Why do I know this date? I don't know. I have the memory and can't seem to forget it.
Back in 2000 it was so sad and painful and surreal to have a miscarriage. I didn't know people had them. Since then we have had 2 more miscarriages and 3 precious children. Each year the memory actually gets harder. The more children we have and the older they get the sadder it is to think we have lost 3. Back then, I didn't know what I was missing. Now I know and it breaks my heart to think about it.
We named the 3 we lost -- Caleb, Hannah and Peter. I finally go a day or more without thinking about them. This is a recent development. I used to think about at least once a day. I wasn't dwelling on the past and wondering why. I just remembered.
I praise the Lord for the 3 little ones we have now and what a blessing they are to us.
NCG has a song that sums it all up "Oh my Child". The line that gets me every time is "It's hard to let just as soon as you know you've been given a life."
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