I was really proud of my little boy today.
Since he just turned four, he is now able to go to "Junior Church," and this is something that he has been excited about doing for quite awhile now. The kids always get a little snack and then they have a lesson time of their own. Usually he's a little shy at first about starting new things with lots of kids, but today he just walked right into class like a big boy.
He was the last kid getting in there, because he had to wait for me to get done singing, and there were more children in there today than usual. So we just found him an extra chair, the kids all made room for him, and he sat down eagerly anticipating his fun little snack. Well, the teacher had a really special treat today. The only problem was, there wasn't enough to go around. All of the other children were sitting around this table all together dipping their fun little lollipop treats into the sugar candy and licking them off, while Kaden just sat there and watched them. When the teacher realized that there wasn't enough to go around she quickly gave Kaden a mini box of raisins and told him that "they were just as good (and sweet too!)" WHAAT?!!
In the grand scheme of life, this is so not a big deal. And really - I would prefer my child to be eating a snack like goldfish or raisins or even crackers, anyway. But, when every other kid in the room is getting a really fun treat, it totally just broke my heart that he was sitting there eating raisins. Again - I know it's not a big deal, but it made me so sad. And he was so big and brave. He looked at me and all he said was: "I would like a snack like they're having." So, I knelt down beside him and just explained that there wasn't enough to go around today. I could have used this as a perfect teaching time about "how the last shall be first" or how "someone had to be the one to not get the lollipop, and it's nice for him to be the big boy," but I just didn't have the heart. He nodded that he understood, and he quietly picked away at his snack while I walked back to the service with my tail between my legs. Disappointments are good and necessary to learn about - I know this. He will have his fair share of them thanks to this mean world. But as his Mommy, how I wish I could shelter him from unnecessary hurts. My heart just felt so sad for him and so proud that he was trying to be so big and brave.
On the way home both Kev and I talked to him about how proud we were that even though he was really disappointed and even kind of sad that he didn't get a fun treat, he didn't make a scene, he didn't act out, and he wasn't mean to the other kids. He really did act like a big boy and he didn't let that disappointment get in the way of having a really fun time at Junior Church, either.
Needless to say, we took a wee bit of a detour on the way home and bought someone a very VERY special ice cream treat to have all for himself!
Science at its BEST!
We just witnessed the COOLEST thing over here! Kaden caught seven army worms awhile back, and we've just had them hanging out in a tupperware container for about a week. Within a couple of days of catching them, four promptly cocooned themselves away while the other two just sort of shriveled up and died. I had never known that army worms did this, so we've just sort of had them hanging out on top of our fridge waiting to see what would happen.
Well, yesterday I looked in the container and saw a little moth in there. I didn't really put two and two together because Kaden had also caught a moth just yesterday and I just thought it had gotten loose and that I had stumbled upon it. This evening at supper time, I looked in again and there was a second little moth hanging out. And then it clicked! These babies were hatching - or whatever you call what they do when they come out of their cocoon!
And then - just as we were watching these little guys hopping and floundering around inside the container, one moth starting coming out of its cocoon and WE GOT TO WATCH THE WHOLE THING! It was SO cool! Seriously! I have never seen anything like this before, and I was amazed! The boys thought it was cool and then they ALL promptly went back to their wrestling and roughhousing, but - oh my word - I just watched this little guy all evening as he crawled around and dried his wings out and then practiced flapping them. It was amazing. We released the other two babies into the wild, but I'm going to give this little guy a few more minutes to get a good head start on life before I release him to the birds. Two more babies to go!
Come on now - do you not think that this is a pretty cool thing to witness?!! Kevin mocks my enthusiasm......:0)
Well, yesterday I looked in the container and saw a little moth in there. I didn't really put two and two together because Kaden had also caught a moth just yesterday and I just thought it had gotten loose and that I had stumbled upon it. This evening at supper time, I looked in again and there was a second little moth hanging out. And then it clicked! These babies were hatching - or whatever you call what they do when they come out of their cocoon!
And then - just as we were watching these little guys hopping and floundering around inside the container, one moth starting coming out of its cocoon and WE GOT TO WATCH THE WHOLE THING! It was SO cool! Seriously! I have never seen anything like this before, and I was amazed! The boys thought it was cool and then they ALL promptly went back to their wrestling and roughhousing, but - oh my word - I just watched this little guy all evening as he crawled around and dried his wings out and then practiced flapping them. It was amazing. We released the other two babies into the wild, but I'm going to give this little guy a few more minutes to get a good head start on life before I release him to the birds. Two more babies to go!
Come on now - do you not think that this is a pretty cool thing to witness?!! Kevin mocks my enthusiasm......:0)
Amazing Blogs and Posts Worth Reading.....
I've been wanting to post a couple of links for awhile of things that I've either stumbled across or have been told about. If you have the time, these are some blogs written by some amazing women who are completely sold out to their Savior.
Here's one that will make you RUN to your babies and thank Jesus for every moment that you have with them. Warning: have tissues ready. I'm sending you just to one post; but you can see where you can read her entire blog there, as well. OH. MY. WORD. What a humbling, tear-jerking blog to read.
This one gives really great perspective on "the quiverfull movement." At least out here, this is a pretty hot topic these days, and I love how she puts the kibosh on all of the spiritualizing that we - especially we young mothers - can do.
For my prego friends: the most complete list of natural labor induction methods! Just let me say, however, that I DO NOT recommend the caster oil. Had a friend with really really bad results.....
And finally Here's something that is just plain gross.
Here's one that will make you RUN to your babies and thank Jesus for every moment that you have with them. Warning: have tissues ready. I'm sending you just to one post; but you can see where you can read her entire blog there, as well. OH. MY. WORD. What a humbling, tear-jerking blog to read.
This one gives really great perspective on "the quiverfull movement." At least out here, this is a pretty hot topic these days, and I love how she puts the kibosh on all of the spiritualizing that we - especially we young mothers - can do.
For my prego friends: the most complete list of natural labor induction methods! Just let me say, however, that I DO NOT recommend the caster oil. Had a friend with really really bad results.....
And finally Here's something that is just plain gross.
The Winds of Change
Do you want to know how much this anal cleaning Mama is relaxing? Today is a perfect example. I really wanted to vac my kitchen and living room floors before the boys went down to nap. Upon mentioning this to Kaden, he asked if he could help - like he always does - and I suggested that he get out his lawn mower and pretend to vac along with me - like he always does.
Well, today, this suggestion didn't fly. This time he really wanted to help for real "because I'm four now." So, I got out the vac and proceeded to let him clean both floors all by himself. He was so proud of the work that he accomplished with Jesse dutifully carrying the cord and attachments along behind him wherever he went that I didn't have the heart to run through really quickly and touch up the places that he missed. So there you have it - my place is sufficiently cleaned!
And now we are off for a cookie break, because "cleaning is hard work!"
Well, today, this suggestion didn't fly. This time he really wanted to help for real "because I'm four now." So, I got out the vac and proceeded to let him clean both floors all by himself. He was so proud of the work that he accomplished with Jesse dutifully carrying the cord and attachments along behind him wherever he went that I didn't have the heart to run through really quickly and touch up the places that he missed. So there you have it - my place is sufficiently cleaned!
And now we are off for a cookie break, because "cleaning is hard work!"
Happy Birthday, Jesse Micah!
I cannot believe that my baby is one today. Where has the time gone? I can so vividly remember twelve months ago today waking up at one in the morning feeling a little "off" and wondering if "this was it!" I had had to be induced with Kaden because of complications and was so praying to be able to go completely natural with this one. I had already been put on complete bedrest for two days straight because of symptoms of pre-clampsia, and I was so discouraged. Well, that morning, the Lord gave me the absolute greatest gift ever in giving me the birth of my dreams, but also in giving me another absolutely beautiful little boy who came out just a screaming!
What an intense little man we have; and what a delight he is to our family! He has completely turned us inside out and so totally changed the dynamic of what we look like now. It has been a crazy, wild ride these past twelve months - really not a quiet minute since he's joined us - and actually quite the funny farm now that I look back on the year - but what a gift these months have been.
I absolutely love this little boy. I never quite understood how moms were able to love their children equally, or how they could spread the wealth of their love to so many people. The love that I felt for Kaden was so deep and strong, I just wondered how I would ever love another as much as him - but it's true! It's like your heart just gets a little bigger and a little fuller and it just expands to hold another. Sometimes it feels like it'll explode!
So, to celebrate this joyous occasion of Jesse's birth, we took him to his favorite hospital and got his cast removed! What a way to celebrate, eh? He was actually a bit of a wreck today, so we're going to do presents and things like that another day when he is more rested and his naps are not so thrown. But he is quite thrilled to have both of his hands free AND to be able to have baths again. The highlight of his day was playing in the tub with his big brother once again.
What a privilege to be a Mother. What an honor and a humbling responsibility. So often I do not feel up to the task or equipped for this calling. But, I am so thankful that the Lord has given me these little boys on loan for however long He will let me have them. I am in awe of these gifts.
What an intense little man we have; and what a delight he is to our family! He has completely turned us inside out and so totally changed the dynamic of what we look like now. It has been a crazy, wild ride these past twelve months - really not a quiet minute since he's joined us - and actually quite the funny farm now that I look back on the year - but what a gift these months have been.
I absolutely love this little boy. I never quite understood how moms were able to love their children equally, or how they could spread the wealth of their love to so many people. The love that I felt for Kaden was so deep and strong, I just wondered how I would ever love another as much as him - but it's true! It's like your heart just gets a little bigger and a little fuller and it just expands to hold another. Sometimes it feels like it'll explode!
So, to celebrate this joyous occasion of Jesse's birth, we took him to his favorite hospital and got his cast removed! What a way to celebrate, eh? He was actually a bit of a wreck today, so we're going to do presents and things like that another day when he is more rested and his naps are not so thrown. But he is quite thrilled to have both of his hands free AND to be able to have baths again. The highlight of his day was playing in the tub with his big brother once again.
What a privilege to be a Mother. What an honor and a humbling responsibility. So often I do not feel up to the task or equipped for this calling. But, I am so thankful that the Lord has given me these little boys on loan for however long He will let me have them. I am in awe of these gifts.
An Ode to The Pregos!
I seem to have quite a few friends who are with child at the moment, and I have just been thinking about all of you a lot lately. Shannie, Esther, and Sarah, in particular are are on my mind, but also my dear friend Kristi who just had her first little guy a few weeks ago also comes to mind all the time. So, I just want to give you all a little shout out!
My friends - know that I love you and I am praying for you. I'm so excited for you, and I want to remind you that even if you accomplish absolutley nothing in your day sometimes, you are really climbing a mountain with the work that your body is doing in making that little baby. So, sit back, relax, put your feet up, and remind everybody of that impressive fact! You're doing more than most each and every day! Much love to you all!
My Jesse turns one on Wednesday, and I must confess that I'm starting to feel the itch again - a little craving in my soul - a few stirrings within. Kev thinks I'm insane and is no where even close to being ready....not sure if he ever will be, quite frankly.....but it's beginning again! We shall see. I want to fully savor my little baby, so I really am in no rush, but oh my - I am finding him so yummy these days! For me, the infancy stage is quite challenging. Both of my boys were really fussy newborns, and Jesse was really quite a wreck up until 9 or 10 months. But from here on out, I am in my element, and it just keeps getting better! I am very content right now, and I feel that our family is complete for the moment....but I can't say that I feel we are done. I just can't imagine that.....God alone knows when our quiver will be full! We'll keep you posted!
My friends - know that I love you and I am praying for you. I'm so excited for you, and I want to remind you that even if you accomplish absolutley nothing in your day sometimes, you are really climbing a mountain with the work that your body is doing in making that little baby. So, sit back, relax, put your feet up, and remind everybody of that impressive fact! You're doing more than most each and every day! Much love to you all!
My Jesse turns one on Wednesday, and I must confess that I'm starting to feel the itch again - a little craving in my soul - a few stirrings within. Kev thinks I'm insane and is no where even close to being ready....not sure if he ever will be, quite frankly.....but it's beginning again! We shall see. I want to fully savor my little baby, so I really am in no rush, but oh my - I am finding him so yummy these days! For me, the infancy stage is quite challenging. Both of my boys were really fussy newborns, and Jesse was really quite a wreck up until 9 or 10 months. But from here on out, I am in my element, and it just keeps getting better! I am very content right now, and I feel that our family is complete for the moment....but I can't say that I feel we are done. I just can't imagine that.....God alone knows when our quiver will be full! We'll keep you posted!
An Unexpected Gift
This morning, we didn't hear Jesse until close to 7:30. This was a real treat, as his normal waking time is right around 6:00. What a nice little present on a Saturday morning! However, upon going to get him, we realized that he had found himself a little present, as well. He had managed to reach over to Kaden's crayon can and was happily shredding a green crayon to bits and chomping merrily away! I'm excited for the afternoon diaper. It's the gift that keeps on giving!
The Distortion of Beauty
Pretty amazing, eh? Pretty scary if that's what our young women are trying to measure up to these days.
It kinda reminds me of a little phrase I've read a time or two: "Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain; but a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised!"
Happy Birthday, Sweet Kaden!
So hard to believe that our little guy turned four years old yesterday. My baby boy is no more. I clearly remember how I felt four years ago: unsure of what I'd gotten myself into, wondering if I was even going to be a good mom and if I would even enjoy motherhood, praying to the Lord that I would be able to soothe him when he cried because I always made babies freak out when I held them....and the feelings went on. And I oh so vividly remember the first time I held him when he was crying and seeing how he was instantly soothed in my arms; and then I knew that I was going to be okay! My, how I fell in love. What a gift the Lord has given us in Kaden.
It was so much fun celebrating him all day long! And oh the fun we had! We went to Cracker Barrel for breakfast, and then we immediately headed over to Tyler State Park to spend the rest of the morning and to have a picnic lunch. Hidden in our car top carrier was his brand new big boy bike, and he was SO excited when we pulled it out! One of the first things that he said was: "Now Jesse can have my tricyle because I have a big boy bike now. I don't need it anymore!" He was a little timid at first and just wanted to walk it around, but after just a couple of minutes, we couldn't get him off it. He didn't even want to stop for his pizza picnic!
After naptime, we had the backyard all decorated with his kiddie pool all set up, and we had a really fun bbq with a bunch of his little friends. They all swam and rode trikes and bikes, he unwrapped gifts, and we had a cake all decorated with candy to look like a bike. Kev actually did most of the decorating, because I was getting so frustrated with the decorating instructions! He was so impressed with himself that he carved his initials in the frosting with licorice!
The only downer of the night was that we're pretty sure Kaden got a little bit of heat exhaustion as a result of all the day's festivities. He spiked a fever in the night and really all of today he's been quite drained, as well. Poor little guy. It's hard work being a big boy!
It was so much fun celebrating him all day long! And oh the fun we had! We went to Cracker Barrel for breakfast, and then we immediately headed over to Tyler State Park to spend the rest of the morning and to have a picnic lunch. Hidden in our car top carrier was his brand new big boy bike, and he was SO excited when we pulled it out! One of the first things that he said was: "Now Jesse can have my tricyle because I have a big boy bike now. I don't need it anymore!" He was a little timid at first and just wanted to walk it around, but after just a couple of minutes, we couldn't get him off it. He didn't even want to stop for his pizza picnic!
After naptime, we had the backyard all decorated with his kiddie pool all set up, and we had a really fun bbq with a bunch of his little friends. They all swam and rode trikes and bikes, he unwrapped gifts, and we had a cake all decorated with candy to look like a bike. Kev actually did most of the decorating, because I was getting so frustrated with the decorating instructions! He was so impressed with himself that he carved his initials in the frosting with licorice!
The only downer of the night was that we're pretty sure Kaden got a little bit of heat exhaustion as a result of all the day's festivities. He spiked a fever in the night and really all of today he's been quite drained, as well. Poor little guy. It's hard work being a big boy!
Happy Memorial Day!
Up home, Memorial Day is one of my mostest fave holidays. We celebrate it hick style and usually spend the day canoeing some river with a hotdog roast on a bank somewhere. We make a nice little smudge to keep the blackflies at bay, and then we continue on our merry way for the rest of the afternoon just lazing down the river, hitting a rapid or two, and trolling with our fishing poles. In earlier years when everyone had more energy and less children, we also would do some tenting during this holiday weekend, as well. This year, we went home earlier in the month, so we missed out on the big to-do's, and wouldn't you know that this is the very first time that Mom & Dad flipped their canoe! I have waited my entire life to see this spectacular event with Mom shrieking like a banshee as her homemade cookies wash downstream, and of course it had to happen while I'm in Philly! I can't wait to get the details from my bro! I'm glad you're all okay, but Mister Man, I wish I was there to witness the spectacle! Good times!
Anyhoo, Kev knows that this is one of my most fave holidays, so instead of going off some place to do homework like he so desperately needs to do, he stayed home and made it fun for lil 'ole me and the boysies. We went to our fave local orchard and picked three little pints of strawberries; it's the very first day of the season. Then, we went to the store right next door and bought a spontaneous picnic lunch and came back and ate it on the picnic tables right in the orchard. Some friends are coming by for a BBQ supper, and we're going to make camp coffee and dutch oven biscuits for some homemade strawberry shortcake. It'll be kind of like camping - only ghetto style!
Anyhoo, Kev knows that this is one of my most fave holidays, so instead of going off some place to do homework like he so desperately needs to do, he stayed home and made it fun for lil 'ole me and the boysies. We went to our fave local orchard and picked three little pints of strawberries; it's the very first day of the season. Then, we went to the store right next door and bought a spontaneous picnic lunch and came back and ate it on the picnic tables right in the orchard. Some friends are coming by for a BBQ supper, and we're going to make camp coffee and dutch oven biscuits for some homemade strawberry shortcake. It'll be kind of like camping - only ghetto style!
Sigh.....
A beautiful post. Oh to be able to write like this!
Such a beautiful picture of infancy.....of motherhood.....and of Jesus.
Such a beautiful picture of infancy.....of motherhood.....and of Jesus.
Plans!
Now that the stress of Jesse's surgery is over, we can start thinking about fun things like birthdays and make plans for, you know, our future and things like that! Kaden turns four next Thursday, and on the following Wednesday, Jesse turns one! Whoo-hoo! Times for celebration in the Booker household.
Kaden has been asking for a big boy bike for several months now. Daddy found one just the right size for him with training wheels, and we have it all stashed away in our car top carrier for the big day. We're either going to go to Cracker Barrel for breakfast - his fave, or make pancakes and eggs at home - his other fave. Then, we'll pack a fun picnic lunch and head to his favorite park for the morning with our bikes and his little trike. Little does his know that the trike will really be for Jesse, and his very own big boy bike will be brought out to surprise him! Oh - I'm so excited! Then, we'll have a picnic lunch and get them home in time for their naps. When everyone wakes up, we're going to have a little backyard BBQ with some friends and their kids. It'll be relaxed and laid back; and the kids can just play and splash around in the kiddie pool. Kaden can open up his gifts from the grandparents and a few other little things we have for him, and we'll have cupcakes and icecream to top off the day.
For our wee one's first birthday, we'll be getting his cast off for him! Not sure if we'll really celebrate on his actual birthday because of that, but maybe we will. We'll just do something pretty low key. We've got a couple of gifts for him, but other than that, we'll just have a fun family day and give him lots of attention. If it's hot out, we'll probably just spend the rest of the day in the pool. It's what he loves most, and he will have had to keep his arm dry for a couple of weeks by then - no baths even. Lots of water play with thrill his little soul!
And then there's that whole pesky matter about what we're going to do with our future. I guess that will have to fit into another post! Happy Sunday!
Kaden has been asking for a big boy bike for several months now. Daddy found one just the right size for him with training wheels, and we have it all stashed away in our car top carrier for the big day. We're either going to go to Cracker Barrel for breakfast - his fave, or make pancakes and eggs at home - his other fave. Then, we'll pack a fun picnic lunch and head to his favorite park for the morning with our bikes and his little trike. Little does his know that the trike will really be for Jesse, and his very own big boy bike will be brought out to surprise him! Oh - I'm so excited! Then, we'll have a picnic lunch and get them home in time for their naps. When everyone wakes up, we're going to have a little backyard BBQ with some friends and their kids. It'll be relaxed and laid back; and the kids can just play and splash around in the kiddie pool. Kaden can open up his gifts from the grandparents and a few other little things we have for him, and we'll have cupcakes and icecream to top off the day.
For our wee one's first birthday, we'll be getting his cast off for him! Not sure if we'll really celebrate on his actual birthday because of that, but maybe we will. We'll just do something pretty low key. We've got a couple of gifts for him, but other than that, we'll just have a fun family day and give him lots of attention. If it's hot out, we'll probably just spend the rest of the day in the pool. It's what he loves most, and he will have had to keep his arm dry for a couple of weeks by then - no baths even. Lots of water play with thrill his little soul!
And then there's that whole pesky matter about what we're going to do with our future. I guess that will have to fit into another post! Happy Sunday!
Saturday-zies!
Our little Jesse is doing fantabulous! We were told that he completely freaked out when he came out of surgery, so the nurses calmed him down with some apple juice before coming to get us. That kind of peeved me, as I wanted to feed him myself, but as soon as I had him in my arms, he settled right down and fell asleep within a couple of minutes, anyway. He was in some pretty significant pain, so they gave him a nice little coctail of morphine and something like oxycotin. Needless to say, he was very loopy and out of it for the entire rest of the day. He had a great night - only waking up when his medicine wore off. And this morning, he is pretty much back to himself! His face is already all scratched and bruised because of bonking himself with his cast so many times, but he isn't fazed in the least!
We had a pretty low key morning at home, but then after Jesse's morning nap, we decided to head out to one of our fave parks for some swinging, sliding, kite flying, bug catching, and froggin'! We convinced Kaden to let his wee salamaders have their freedom, so now his aquarium is free to house some new "treasures" that we may find on our adventures in future days!
In other news, we have now acquired six fuzzy little army worms that we found crawling all over the outside of our apartment and sidewalk the other day. Four have cocooned themselves away already, so we shall see what becomes of them! (I never knew that they did that). And some of our tadpoles are now growing back legs. Let the good times roll!
Update: As of 7:00p.m. this evening, upon checking on our baby tadpoles, they seem to have all disappeared but one! There's a family of baby groundhogs in our backyard, and methinks they have been feasting upon our froglets. Kaden says: "Ah well. We'll just get more. At least we made the groundhogs happy." I guess he was none too attached. Poor things. They never stood a chance!
We had a pretty low key morning at home, but then after Jesse's morning nap, we decided to head out to one of our fave parks for some swinging, sliding, kite flying, bug catching, and froggin'! We convinced Kaden to let his wee salamaders have their freedom, so now his aquarium is free to house some new "treasures" that we may find on our adventures in future days!
In other news, we have now acquired six fuzzy little army worms that we found crawling all over the outside of our apartment and sidewalk the other day. Four have cocooned themselves away already, so we shall see what becomes of them! (I never knew that they did that). And some of our tadpoles are now growing back legs. Let the good times roll!
Update: As of 7:00p.m. this evening, upon checking on our baby tadpoles, they seem to have all disappeared but one! There's a family of baby groundhogs in our backyard, and methinks they have been feasting upon our froglets. Kaden says: "Ah well. We'll just get more. At least we made the groundhogs happy." I guess he was none too attached. Poor things. They never stood a chance!
Success!
This will be quick. No time to check typos, because as soon as they call my name, this Mama's running. Our doctor - who I love love love - just came and spoke with us. The surgery is over, Jesse is breathing on his own, and he'll be waking up shortly. Because I'm still nursing him, I'll get to go to him as soon as he wakes up.
Dr. Chang said that once he cut out all of the scar tissue and straightened the fingers, he saw that the length of skin needed was actually 150% more than what was there, so he ended up taking the graft from his groin rather than his inner arm. He put a whole bunch of little flaps of skin grafts onto two of Jesse's fingers, and he made a z shaped zig zag cut into the scarring on his ring finger to give him more mobility as his fingers grow. A whole bunch of stuff that I don't fully understand; it sounds like he made a patchwork quilt out of his fingers. But I do know this: All is well!
Dr. Chang said that once he cut out all of the scar tissue and straightened the fingers, he saw that the length of skin needed was actually 150% more than what was there, so he ended up taking the graft from his groin rather than his inner arm. He put a whole bunch of little flaps of skin grafts onto two of Jesse's fingers, and he made a z shaped zig zag cut into the scarring on his ring finger to give him more mobility as his fingers grow. A whole bunch of stuff that I don't fully understand; it sounds like he made a patchwork quilt out of his fingers. But I do know this: All is well!
Waiting......
Well, we're here at the Children's Hospital hanging out in the waiting room. Our little Jesse is in surgery as I type. This morning went beautifully, and we know that the Lord totally undertook for us. Jesse didn't even go into surgery until 11:00, but he was happy as a lark without both food AND a nap! The nurses kept exclaiming over how adorable and happy he was, and we even opted out of the "sleepy juice" because he was so content and loopy on his own! This was totally a God thing, because every single day of his life, if it's even a moment past 7:30 in the morning and he hasn't had breakfast, Jesse lets us know. Loudly! We couldn't believe how content and happy he was. God is good.
We both got a little teary when the nurse walked down the hall with him into the operating room, but because he was so happy and trusting it made it a lot easier on us! Sitting here in the waiting room with other parents whose children are having major surgeries also puts things in significant perspective. Mind you - I don't ever want to go through this again, but we are at peace......and we're aware that having Jesse as our child we will probably be here multiple times throughout the course of his life whether we like it or not!
The nurse came to tell us that he is safely asleep; the only little glitch was that they couldn't find any veins in his "chunky arms," so they're having to go through his leg for the I.V.! Other than that, all is well. Thank you for your prayers. I'll update as we find out more details.
We both got a little teary when the nurse walked down the hall with him into the operating room, but because he was so happy and trusting it made it a lot easier on us! Sitting here in the waiting room with other parents whose children are having major surgeries also puts things in significant perspective. Mind you - I don't ever want to go through this again, but we are at peace......and we're aware that having Jesse as our child we will probably be here multiple times throughout the course of his life whether we like it or not!
The nurse came to tell us that he is safely asleep; the only little glitch was that they couldn't find any veins in his "chunky arms," so they're having to go through his leg for the I.V.! Other than that, all is well. Thank you for your prayers. I'll update as we find out more details.
D-Day....
We would appreciate your prayers for our little family tomorrow. Jesse is scheduled to arrive at the hospital at 8:45, and he is scheduled for surgery shortly afterward. He'll be given some "sleepy juice" that will hopefully make him relaxed, and we will be able to stay with him right up until he goes into the operating room. The surgery should take a couple of hours, and then he'll be in recovery for a couple more. Barring any complications, we should all be back home after supper sometime, and it will all be behind us. We'll keep you posted.
A GREAT read!
I LOVE love this post. So encouraging. So necessary. So true. How often we as women fail to encourage each other in our seasons of life. Instead of speaking healing words that bring life and encouragement, and instead of being real and vulnerable with each other, we put on facades pretending that life is perfect, or even worse - we share "wisdom" and "encouragement" that is a far cry from the humility and grace that is truly needed in a situation and we wound and hurt each other.
It's easy - especially in the blogging world - to just show everyone the "sunny side" or your life, you know? I know that for me, it's far easier to just blog about the cute things or the Mommy stories that inflate my own ego. That's why I love this lady's blog. She's beyond all of that. She's farther down the road of mothering and "wifing" and she's left all of the pride and know-it-all-ness at the door. This is what I want to do.
Life is hard. Mothering is hard. What we need from each other is some major encouragement during this season of life. So that's what I want to give to you, my friends. As far a mothering goes: who cares who had an epidural and who had a natural birth? Who cares how long you feel like nursing your baby? Who cares if you choose to never let your baby cry.....or let them cry for awhile, for that matter? Who cares if you want to start them on fruits first instead of veggies? Who cares if you don't potty train until they're three? Seriously! What we all need from each other is a: "You are doing a fantastic job!" Or how about a: "I'm so proud of you!" Or, gasp - what about a: "Hey, I'm really strugging in this area and could use some advice from a friend who's an awesome mom."
So, my friends. That is my goal. To be real. To be genuine. To be an encouragement. "To let my gentle spirit be known before all men." (Phil. 4:5) "To with humility of mind regard [a friend] as more important than myself." (Phil. 2:3) and "to let my love abound more and more in real knowledge and in all discernment." (Phil. 1:9) I want to bear my friends burdens right along with them instead of adding to their load. I want to open my heart wide to those that I love and walk WITH them in humility and love, with empathy and compassion, with respect and encouragement.
I don't want people to think that I have it all together, because I don't. Who does? I don't want them to think that my life is ALWAYS rosy, because it isn't. Who's is? And that's okay! So, ask me anything you want, and I'll lay it right out for ya!
Seriously. Read this lady. She's good.
It's easy - especially in the blogging world - to just show everyone the "sunny side" or your life, you know? I know that for me, it's far easier to just blog about the cute things or the Mommy stories that inflate my own ego. That's why I love this lady's blog. She's beyond all of that. She's farther down the road of mothering and "wifing" and she's left all of the pride and know-it-all-ness at the door. This is what I want to do.
Life is hard. Mothering is hard. What we need from each other is some major encouragement during this season of life. So that's what I want to give to you, my friends. As far a mothering goes: who cares who had an epidural and who had a natural birth? Who cares how long you feel like nursing your baby? Who cares if you choose to never let your baby cry.....or let them cry for awhile, for that matter? Who cares if you want to start them on fruits first instead of veggies? Who cares if you don't potty train until they're three? Seriously! What we all need from each other is a: "You are doing a fantastic job!" Or how about a: "I'm so proud of you!" Or, gasp - what about a: "Hey, I'm really strugging in this area and could use some advice from a friend who's an awesome mom."
So, my friends. That is my goal. To be real. To be genuine. To be an encouragement. "To let my gentle spirit be known before all men." (Phil. 4:5) "To with humility of mind regard [a friend] as more important than myself." (Phil. 2:3) and "to let my love abound more and more in real knowledge and in all discernment." (Phil. 1:9) I want to bear my friends burdens right along with them instead of adding to their load. I want to open my heart wide to those that I love and walk WITH them in humility and love, with empathy and compassion, with respect and encouragement.
I don't want people to think that I have it all together, because I don't. Who does? I don't want them to think that my life is ALWAYS rosy, because it isn't. Who's is? And that's okay! So, ask me anything you want, and I'll lay it right out for ya!
Seriously. Read this lady. She's good.
Fantastic!
Did you read my last post? Somehow, somewhere - all of the five stinking paragraphs I just wrote disappeared into oblivion. How does this happen? Arrrgh.....
So the jist (gist?) of what I just wrote? -
* Jesse is now walking! I waxed eloquent here and wrote a bunch of Mommy sap on how cute it is to see a bald little two foot tall tank of delish-iousness walking around like a drunken sailor. He's so proud of himself, so he'll clap his hands which throws him completely off balance, and then he'll crumble into a squishy pile. It is SO cute and funny. He's got bruises all over his head and bum to prove his lack of grace!
* And his surgery is scheduled for Friday, but he has a funky rash on the exact area where the plastic surgeon wants to take the skin graft. So, we're trying to figure out what to do. We're praying that it heals quickly so that: (A). We don't have to reschedule; we just want it done. (B). The doctor doesn't decide to take the graft from an area where the scar will be more noticeable for him later in life. We would really appreciate your prayers as we try to figure out what we should do.
Okay....let's see if this one gets published.
So the jist (gist?) of what I just wrote? -
* Jesse is now walking! I waxed eloquent here and wrote a bunch of Mommy sap on how cute it is to see a bald little two foot tall tank of delish-iousness walking around like a drunken sailor. He's so proud of himself, so he'll clap his hands which throws him completely off balance, and then he'll crumble into a squishy pile. It is SO cute and funny. He's got bruises all over his head and bum to prove his lack of grace!
* And his surgery is scheduled for Friday, but he has a funky rash on the exact area where the plastic surgeon wants to take the skin graft. So, we're trying to figure out what to do. We're praying that it heals quickly so that: (A). We don't have to reschedule; we just want it done. (B). The doctor doesn't decide to take the graft from an area where the scar will be more noticeable for him later in life. We would really appreciate your prayers as we try to figure out what we should do.
Okay....let's see if this one gets published.
Back in Business!
We are back from traipsing around the countryside! I'll write more on all of that jazz later, but for now, I just want to say how much fun it's been catching up on everyone's lives via your blogs! Periodically these past couple of days, I've grabbed a cup of coffee and have just sat back and read entries whenever I've gotten a few moments, and it has been dee-lightful! Good times!
And now I'm about to be exceedingly lazy. I really want to comment on everyone's blogs, but instead, I'm just going to give ya'll a little comment here in this one post. I'm also too lazy to do the whole hyperlink thing. I promise that from now on, I'll comment on your sites. I know how much I love seeing little comments below each of my posts. But for now, here goes:
Shannie: Dearest, I hear ya! How I love your honesty and vulnerability and I am right there with you some days! As my Jesse becomes more independent I see that there are going to be many many more challenging days ahead. You ROCK, and you are an AWESOME Mommy! It was quite fun seeing you in action a little bit both when you were down here and when I saw you for those ten minutes at home.
Esther: I'm so glad that you were outside when we flew by your house that day! I love that I got to see the tiniest of baby bumps. And man - would we ever love to live beside you guys! That house is our dream place.
Sarah: CONGRATULATIONS!!!! Whooo-hoooo! Sorry about all of the hurl-age. Hopefully that will end for you soon. Poor thing.
Jess-a-Poo: I love that I got to see you for even thirty seconds at Shannon's house. I'm frustrated that we didn't have more time. This visit was like a business trip. You guys just need to come out here again.
Shay: I LOVE YOU. You make me cry just about every time I read your blog.
Angie: How I wish you would update, but I loved chatting with you on the phone yesterday. I'll take that over written words any day. You make me laugh, my friend!
Shannon in Canada: Whew! Heavy posts! I agree with much of what you've written. Other stuff would be fun to chat about. How nice it would be to have a cup of coffee at your farm and hash through life. But alas - PA is just too far away.
Trish: I hope your memorial service went well and that you are not too fried. One last MOPS in a couple of weeks. Looking forward to catching up!
Alyssa: Oh Baby! The big day is only a couple of days away! Man, I wish that we could be there to celebrate with you and Naph. Huge Congrats, my friend. Blessings on your marriage. Much love.....
And Rachey Rach: Loved chatting with you before we got cut off. Hopefully SOON you'll have internet connection and a blog of your own. And hopefully soon we can meet up and go camping again for one last hurrah!
Katya & Kelsey: Update me on life at home this summer! Glad we got to see all of you guys for a couple of hours. Katie - thanks so much for playing with my quality time boy!
Okay. I guess that's all for now. I feel as though I just gave an Academy Award speech or something! Blessings on all of you! It's nice to be back in the world of computers and high speed internet access! :0)
And now I'm about to be exceedingly lazy. I really want to comment on everyone's blogs, but instead, I'm just going to give ya'll a little comment here in this one post. I'm also too lazy to do the whole hyperlink thing. I promise that from now on, I'll comment on your sites. I know how much I love seeing little comments below each of my posts. But for now, here goes:
Shannie: Dearest, I hear ya! How I love your honesty and vulnerability and I am right there with you some days! As my Jesse becomes more independent I see that there are going to be many many more challenging days ahead. You ROCK, and you are an AWESOME Mommy! It was quite fun seeing you in action a little bit both when you were down here and when I saw you for those ten minutes at home.
Esther: I'm so glad that you were outside when we flew by your house that day! I love that I got to see the tiniest of baby bumps. And man - would we ever love to live beside you guys! That house is our dream place.
Sarah: CONGRATULATIONS!!!! Whooo-hoooo! Sorry about all of the hurl-age. Hopefully that will end for you soon. Poor thing.
Jess-a-Poo: I love that I got to see you for even thirty seconds at Shannon's house. I'm frustrated that we didn't have more time. This visit was like a business trip. You guys just need to come out here again.
Shay: I LOVE YOU. You make me cry just about every time I read your blog.
Angie: How I wish you would update, but I loved chatting with you on the phone yesterday. I'll take that over written words any day. You make me laugh, my friend!
Shannon in Canada: Whew! Heavy posts! I agree with much of what you've written. Other stuff would be fun to chat about. How nice it would be to have a cup of coffee at your farm and hash through life. But alas - PA is just too far away.
Trish: I hope your memorial service went well and that you are not too fried. One last MOPS in a couple of weeks. Looking forward to catching up!
Alyssa: Oh Baby! The big day is only a couple of days away! Man, I wish that we could be there to celebrate with you and Naph. Huge Congrats, my friend. Blessings on your marriage. Much love.....
And Rachey Rach: Loved chatting with you before we got cut off. Hopefully SOON you'll have internet connection and a blog of your own. And hopefully soon we can meet up and go camping again for one last hurrah!
Katya & Kelsey: Update me on life at home this summer! Glad we got to see all of you guys for a couple of hours. Katie - thanks so much for playing with my quality time boy!
Okay. I guess that's all for now. I feel as though I just gave an Academy Award speech or something! Blessings on all of you! It's nice to be back in the world of computers and high speed internet access! :0)
Kaden's Song
On the way home from church today, Kev and I were talking and Kaden was just singing to himself in the back seat. We stopped to listen, and these were his words:
I looooove Jeeeee-sus!
Oooooooh Jee-ee-ee-ee-sus
I love you Mooooore
Than Daddy and Mooooomy!
I think he would have sung more, but we busted out laughing at his last line!
I looooove Jeeeee-sus!
Oooooooh Jee-ee-ee-ee-sus
I love you Mooooore
Than Daddy and Mooooomy!
I think he would have sung more, but we busted out laughing at his last line!
College Kid Castoffs!
Here's the list of what we've acquired so far during our dumpster diving adventures:
* A glow in the dark basketball hoop and ball for Kevin...I mean Kaden.
* A new computer bag for Kev
* An entire wardrobe of namebrand clothing for Kev
* A new sweatshirt, long-sleeved t-shirt, and AWESOME capris for me! SCORE!!!
* A plethora of small treaures for Kaden
* A down feather comforter! Whoo-hoo! I got one last year too. I washed it twice - just to be sure all of the cooties are gone.
* A super cute low wooden table - could be a coffee table or craft table for the kiddos. LOVE it! It was all shaky, but Kev fixed it up brand spanking new!
* TONS of paper, art supplies, play-doh, coloring books, colored pencils, and crafty things.
* Two adorable little purses to give to my neices
* A ton of brand new, unopened Bath & Body stuff
* Four Christian books that I'll give to my Mom
* AND an unopened care package filled with candy and goodies....Kev's not so excited about that one. Meanwhile, Amy is happily chomping away on Junior Mints at this VERY moment!
All in a day's dumpster dive! I know there's more, but that's all I can think of right now. Let the good times roll.......
* A glow in the dark basketball hoop and ball for Kevin...I mean Kaden.
* A new computer bag for Kev
* An entire wardrobe of namebrand clothing for Kev
* A new sweatshirt, long-sleeved t-shirt, and AWESOME capris for me! SCORE!!!
* A plethora of small treaures for Kaden
* A down feather comforter! Whoo-hoo! I got one last year too. I washed it twice - just to be sure all of the cooties are gone.
* A super cute low wooden table - could be a coffee table or craft table for the kiddos. LOVE it! It was all shaky, but Kev fixed it up brand spanking new!
* TONS of paper, art supplies, play-doh, coloring books, colored pencils, and crafty things.
* Two adorable little purses to give to my neices
* A ton of brand new, unopened Bath & Body stuff
* Four Christian books that I'll give to my Mom
* AND an unopened care package filled with candy and goodies....Kev's not so excited about that one. Meanwhile, Amy is happily chomping away on Junior Mints at this VERY moment!
All in a day's dumpster dive! I know there's more, but that's all I can think of right now. Let the good times roll.......
For Funsies!
I'm compiling a list of everything that we've found in Jesse's mouth that is NOT food. These are things, I might add, that he happily chomps away on without making a single face. It's like he's eating a special treat of some kind. So, here goes:
* Entire dandelions - yellow head and all. It's like a mini salad!
* About a half of an inch of blue crayon. I found it in his diaper.
* This morning, Kev fished out not one but two AAA batteries! - That one was scary.
* Sidewalk chalk
* Toilet Paper - Actually, that one he didn't seem to like so much as it disintegrated in his mouth.
* Feathers
* Any kind of paper
* Any toy of Kaden's that's foamy that he can get a nice chomp out of
* Flip flops are especially nice for teething
* Dust bunnies
* And of course - rocks, sticks, leaves, and grass.
We went to a park with some friends last night, and we are convinced that they probably think we're neglectful parents. At one point Jesse was gnawing on a huge stick, and Jenn asked if I was going to do anything about it. I said: "No. That will keep him occupied from choking on all of the rocks around here!" Another time, Sam mentioned to Kev that he had a whole dandelion head in his mouth. Kev just said: "Yeah. That's the second one he's eaten. He likes them!"
Seriously, guys. It's a losing battle with this child. He's at least getting his fiber and his greens. Good roughage for the digestive track. As my Dad always say: "It'll all come out in the end!"
* Entire dandelions - yellow head and all. It's like a mini salad!
* About a half of an inch of blue crayon. I found it in his diaper.
* This morning, Kev fished out not one but two AAA batteries! - That one was scary.
* Sidewalk chalk
* Toilet Paper - Actually, that one he didn't seem to like so much as it disintegrated in his mouth.
* Feathers
* Any kind of paper
* Any toy of Kaden's that's foamy that he can get a nice chomp out of
* Flip flops are especially nice for teething
* Dust bunnies
* And of course - rocks, sticks, leaves, and grass.
We went to a park with some friends last night, and we are convinced that they probably think we're neglectful parents. At one point Jesse was gnawing on a huge stick, and Jenn asked if I was going to do anything about it. I said: "No. That will keep him occupied from choking on all of the rocks around here!" Another time, Sam mentioned to Kev that he had a whole dandelion head in his mouth. Kev just said: "Yeah. That's the second one he's eaten. He likes them!"
Seriously, guys. It's a losing battle with this child. He's at least getting his fiber and his greens. Good roughage for the digestive track. As my Dad always say: "It'll all come out in the end!"
Tis The Season.....
for dumpster diving!
And since all of my fellow diving friends have deserted me and moved on to greener pastures, I have a new partner in crime this year.......my very own child after my own heart - Kaden Quint Booker!!!
Why just this morning, as soon as Jesse laid down for a nap, Kaden said: "Hey, Mommy! I think it's time for some dumpster diving!" Oh, how my heart melted to hear those words!
Last night we scored a whole wardrobe for Kev, and this morning we scored some beautiful wooden blocks for Kaden! Oh yeah, Baby! We also took someone's checkbook that they chucked and I'll let Kaden write pretend checks for when he plays with his cash register.....and if we get a little short of cash, I'll see if I can pass as a "Mr. Chun Bo!"
Ya gotta love this time of year! Burt's - bring your grubbies! This can be our Saturday morning activity! Just kidding - I fully realize that some people aren't as pathetic as me. Even Kev gets a little sheepish and isn't as gung ho and I would prefer him to be. I just dive right in and when people come to chuck things, I ask if they have anything good! And if Kev tries to sneak away, I'm just going to loudly yell across the entire parking lot that he belongs to ME - so don't try and deny it! Shameless! But, I know that some of you are wishing you could be here to join in the fun! :0)
And since all of my fellow diving friends have deserted me and moved on to greener pastures, I have a new partner in crime this year.......my very own child after my own heart - Kaden Quint Booker!!!
Why just this morning, as soon as Jesse laid down for a nap, Kaden said: "Hey, Mommy! I think it's time for some dumpster diving!" Oh, how my heart melted to hear those words!
Last night we scored a whole wardrobe for Kev, and this morning we scored some beautiful wooden blocks for Kaden! Oh yeah, Baby! We also took someone's checkbook that they chucked and I'll let Kaden write pretend checks for when he plays with his cash register.....and if we get a little short of cash, I'll see if I can pass as a "Mr. Chun Bo!"
Ya gotta love this time of year! Burt's - bring your grubbies! This can be our Saturday morning activity! Just kidding - I fully realize that some people aren't as pathetic as me. Even Kev gets a little sheepish and isn't as gung ho and I would prefer him to be. I just dive right in and when people come to chuck things, I ask if they have anything good! And if Kev tries to sneak away, I'm just going to loudly yell across the entire parking lot that he belongs to ME - so don't try and deny it! Shameless! But, I know that some of you are wishing you could be here to join in the fun! :0)
And Just So I Don't Forget....
Here's another!
I'm not sure where we came across this particular video, but I laughed till I cried. Oh to be like Gladys when I am old!
I'm not sure where we came across this particular video, but I laughed till I cried. Oh to be like Gladys when I am old!
Trying out a newly acquired skill.......
Okay, at MOPS yesterday, I was talking to my computer brain, and I think I finally figured out how to embed a YouTube video. This is just a totally random one, but for some reason, I find it hilarious. It makes me happy!
A New Day
It's amazing what some time spent with the Lord, two naps, a teary conversation with my Mom, a change in the weather, sweet comments from friends, a morning out at MOPS, and some good, quality time spent with my little family can do for the soul! It doesn't hurt that our plan to come HOME for a bit is finally solidified, as well! Seriously, I feel so much better today. Wow - if I neglect my time with the Lord and if I get overtired, it's a pretty overwhelming place to be.
I so badly want to start my day before the rest of my family - just to get ready for the day and have my quiet time first. But, I am really having a hard time figuring out how to do it in this space. Jesse is such a light sleeper, that whoever gets up first - even to use the bathroom - he's up right along with them...even if they had full intentions to go back to bed for a bit! He sleeps in a pack 'n play in the kitchen to be as far away from any noise as possible, the two bedrooms are obviously occupied, and the living room is not an option because it opens right up into the kitchen. And like I said before, if anyone uses the bathroom, he hears it because the kitchen wall is attached to the bathroom wall. So, I'm a wee bit stumped.
Anyway, I've got some plans for implementing more structure for both of my boys, but I'm not going to introduce anything new until we get back from vacation. Then, we shall start afresh. I'll keep you posted on the plans!
P.S. Did I mention that we're coming home on MONDAY?!!!! Whoo-hoooooooooooooooo!
I so badly want to start my day before the rest of my family - just to get ready for the day and have my quiet time first. But, I am really having a hard time figuring out how to do it in this space. Jesse is such a light sleeper, that whoever gets up first - even to use the bathroom - he's up right along with them...even if they had full intentions to go back to bed for a bit! He sleeps in a pack 'n play in the kitchen to be as far away from any noise as possible, the two bedrooms are obviously occupied, and the living room is not an option because it opens right up into the kitchen. And like I said before, if anyone uses the bathroom, he hears it because the kitchen wall is attached to the bathroom wall. So, I'm a wee bit stumped.
Anyway, I've got some plans for implementing more structure for both of my boys, but I'm not going to introduce anything new until we get back from vacation. Then, we shall start afresh. I'll keep you posted on the plans!
P.S. Did I mention that we're coming home on MONDAY?!!!! Whoo-hoooooooooooooooo!
In a Funk
I don't know what's going on with me these past couple of days, but I feel like I'm in a bit of a funk that I can't seem to shake. I can't even really put my finger on why I feel the way I do. Maybe it's the weather, maybe it's because I haven't gotten good sleep lately, maybe it's because Jesse is SUCH a handful, maybe it's the stress of the future and the unknown, maybe it's because Kev's stressed with finals, maybe it's because we haven't been on a date for awhile with just the two of us......maybe it's everything combined!
Regardless of WHAT it is, I feel like I've been somewhat of a crapola Mommy as of late. I'm short with the boys, I don't feel peppy and inspired to do cool crafty things, I get frustrated when THEY frustrate each other, and I'm feeling like they both are needing more structure of which I haven't quite figured out how to give them. Today, I was so tired of them being aimless and crabby that I put them in the stroller and we all went for a long walk in the rain. Jesse had a rain canopy, but Kaden and I got quite soggy! It was actually quite nice to shake the cobwebs off and get some fresh air for a bit.
Here's an example of my "crapola-ness": Last night Kaden came into our room at like one in the morning and wanted to sleep with us. He dropped his sippy cup on the floor with a THUD on the way in which woke me out of a dead sleep and made me instantly grumpy. Then, when I looked at the clock, I told him that it was way to early to come snuggle with us and he had to go back to bed. He started to pucker up and I just said: "No, Kaden. Back to bed you go." About two minutes later, he's back in beside me and tells me that he had a scary dream. Well, crapola Mommy didn't believe him and thought that he just had another excuse to get in bed with us, so I told him to go back to bed. Poor little thing just silently turned around and sadly walked back to bed. Yup. Jerk I am. I know.
Kev, being the good Daddy that he is, got out of bed, went and tucked Kaden back in, and listened to his scary dream that he really did have, and they ended up snuggling together the rest of the night in Kaden's bed. Apparently, he had dreams of "all kinds of animals that bite who were trying to get him." Kev heard it in great detail while crapola Mommy slept.
So. Yeah. That's been me these past couple of days. To make it up to my wee son, we're having a p.j. day and playing whatever he wants to play. When they go to nap, I'm shutting off the phone, I'm NOT checking out anyone's blogs or email, and I'm going to go and be with Jesus for awhile. I need Him. And I need my Mommy.
Regardless of WHAT it is, I feel like I've been somewhat of a crapola Mommy as of late. I'm short with the boys, I don't feel peppy and inspired to do cool crafty things, I get frustrated when THEY frustrate each other, and I'm feeling like they both are needing more structure of which I haven't quite figured out how to give them. Today, I was so tired of them being aimless and crabby that I put them in the stroller and we all went for a long walk in the rain. Jesse had a rain canopy, but Kaden and I got quite soggy! It was actually quite nice to shake the cobwebs off and get some fresh air for a bit.
Here's an example of my "crapola-ness": Last night Kaden came into our room at like one in the morning and wanted to sleep with us. He dropped his sippy cup on the floor with a THUD on the way in which woke me out of a dead sleep and made me instantly grumpy. Then, when I looked at the clock, I told him that it was way to early to come snuggle with us and he had to go back to bed. He started to pucker up and I just said: "No, Kaden. Back to bed you go." About two minutes later, he's back in beside me and tells me that he had a scary dream. Well, crapola Mommy didn't believe him and thought that he just had another excuse to get in bed with us, so I told him to go back to bed. Poor little thing just silently turned around and sadly walked back to bed. Yup. Jerk I am. I know.
Kev, being the good Daddy that he is, got out of bed, went and tucked Kaden back in, and listened to his scary dream that he really did have, and they ended up snuggling together the rest of the night in Kaden's bed. Apparently, he had dreams of "all kinds of animals that bite who were trying to get him." Kev heard it in great detail while crapola Mommy slept.
So. Yeah. That's been me these past couple of days. To make it up to my wee son, we're having a p.j. day and playing whatever he wants to play. When they go to nap, I'm shutting off the phone, I'm NOT checking out anyone's blogs or email, and I'm going to go and be with Jesus for awhile. I need Him. And I need my Mommy.
Family Days & Life Lessons
It was kind of scuzzy and cool out today, so we opted to stay close to home for our family day. After breakfast, we all climbed into our car and decided to go scope out the local neighborhoods and see if there were any yardsales or fun things going on today. We hit two yardsales where I was able to score a few clothes for the boys and some really fun toys. And we also happened upon a free "kids day" at a local high school. There was free snacks, an amazing little petting zoo, a blow up bouncy tent and slippy slide, and a "lizard guy" who had all kinds of cool reptiles. It was a little boy's paradise!
So, that was how we spent our morning. Then we came home and all the boys crashed while I just putzed around in the silence! Here is where today's life lesson came in: One of the really cool things that we purchased was a really fun little tupperware picnic/play food set. Kaden is always wanting to feed his animals snacks and such, and I always just use a bunch of hodge podge stuff, so it's really fun to have some cool things to use now. Anyway, one of the things that came with the playset was this little plastic cake that you could put plastic chocolate or strawberry frosting on, and you could cut it into slices etc. We have no play food, so Kaden thought this was the coolest.
Anyhoo - when he woke up from his nap and was totally psyched to play picnic with his animals, we found all of the dishes but no cake. Kev thought he remembered putting them on top of the car when he buckled Kaden into his seat, so most likely they blew off as we drove home, and they were probably long gone. We drove all over tarnation today, so they could have ended up anywhere. Anyway, we still had about an hour of daylight to kill this evening, and it wasn't Jesse's bedtime yet, so we decided to take a little drive back over to that neighborhood to see if we could find them. Before leaving, we prepped Kaden by telling him that we very likely may not find them, but "let's pray about it and ask Jesus to help us. He cares about the little things as well as the huge." When Kev prayed, he thanked Jesus for listening even to our small little prayers, and he prayed that even if we didn't find our treasure we know that He still loves us and we still love Him, as well.
Anyway - long story short - we ended back up at the lady's house, and the cake was sitting right there on her table! We hadn't even brought it to the car with us after all! And to top it all off, she completely loaded us up with about $20 worth of loot for free, because she hardly sold a thing today! It was SO cool and just a really really neat lesson for Kaden to experience in seeing that his Creator cares about the smallest of details in his life. And for me, a door has been opened for a witnessing opportunity and a friendship. How cool is that?
So, that was how we spent our morning. Then we came home and all the boys crashed while I just putzed around in the silence! Here is where today's life lesson came in: One of the really cool things that we purchased was a really fun little tupperware picnic/play food set. Kaden is always wanting to feed his animals snacks and such, and I always just use a bunch of hodge podge stuff, so it's really fun to have some cool things to use now. Anyway, one of the things that came with the playset was this little plastic cake that you could put plastic chocolate or strawberry frosting on, and you could cut it into slices etc. We have no play food, so Kaden thought this was the coolest.
Anyhoo - when he woke up from his nap and was totally psyched to play picnic with his animals, we found all of the dishes but no cake. Kev thought he remembered putting them on top of the car when he buckled Kaden into his seat, so most likely they blew off as we drove home, and they were probably long gone. We drove all over tarnation today, so they could have ended up anywhere. Anyway, we still had about an hour of daylight to kill this evening, and it wasn't Jesse's bedtime yet, so we decided to take a little drive back over to that neighborhood to see if we could find them. Before leaving, we prepped Kaden by telling him that we very likely may not find them, but "let's pray about it and ask Jesus to help us. He cares about the little things as well as the huge." When Kev prayed, he thanked Jesus for listening even to our small little prayers, and he prayed that even if we didn't find our treasure we know that He still loves us and we still love Him, as well.
Anyway - long story short - we ended back up at the lady's house, and the cake was sitting right there on her table! We hadn't even brought it to the car with us after all! And to top it all off, she completely loaded us up with about $20 worth of loot for free, because she hardly sold a thing today! It was SO cool and just a really really neat lesson for Kaden to experience in seeing that his Creator cares about the smallest of details in his life. And for me, a door has been opened for a witnessing opportunity and a friendship. How cool is that?
Kaden's "Pet" News....
and other such grossness.
Well, as of this morning, Kaden is pleased and proud to announce that one of his wax worms has fully and completely turned into a beetle, and two are in process. He is also equally interested in the one that "drowned" in his salamander's pool. Also - we caught two different spiders this morning (in our apartment, no less) and put them in a little plastic container. The bigger one is a jumper, and we had the privilege to watch him catch and suck the juices from the other for a tasty lunch. Oh my sickness.
Kaden is waiting on pins and needles to share all of this excitement with Daddy when he gets home.
Well, as of this morning, Kaden is pleased and proud to announce that one of his wax worms has fully and completely turned into a beetle, and two are in process. He is also equally interested in the one that "drowned" in his salamander's pool. Also - we caught two different spiders this morning (in our apartment, no less) and put them in a little plastic container. The bigger one is a jumper, and we had the privilege to watch him catch and suck the juices from the other for a tasty lunch. Oh my sickness.
Kaden is waiting on pins and needles to share all of this excitement with Daddy when he gets home.
Quick Update
Okay. It's been a crazy, super long day and my brain is fried, but I just wanted to give a quick update on Jesse. We left for CHOP at 8:30 this morning and did not return home until almost 3:00. A very long day to be in a hospital with two wee ones.
Jesse is going to have to have skin grafts on his left hand, after all; and the date is set for May 23. Our doctor measured the skin on the fingers of both hands to compare. On the fingers of his hand that healed properly there are 10 millimeters and 11 millimeters of skin, but on the fingers of his left hand there are only 3 and 4 millimeters of skin; the rest is scar tissue. So, he really did lose a significant amount of skin to scarring. We can see that he already doesn't have full range of motion with his fingers and he favors that hand over the other - keeping it somewhat curled when he crawls and when he claps his hands.
Sooooo - we're not surprised. It's been my gut feeling all along. The great thing out of this whole yuckiness is that fact that we are at the greatest children's hospital in the nation with one of the best plastic surgeon's around who specializes in - get this - HANDS! Coincidence? I think not!
We'll be at the hospital for an entire day, but Jesse will be able to go home with us at night. He'll have a cast clear up to his shoulder, but it will only stay on for two weeks, and he should not have to have any physical therapy afterwards. If minimal skin is needed, they'll take the graft from the crease in his arm; if more is needed then it will come from the crease where his leg attaches to his groin.
This whole drama has been the most traumatic thing that we have ever been through as parents, but I think we have it in perspective now and we completely trust our doctor. Most importantly, though, we have full faith and peace in The Great Physician who loves our little Jesse far more than we could ever even begin to fathom. He is good, He is safe, and He is ultimately in control.
Jesse is going to have to have skin grafts on his left hand, after all; and the date is set for May 23. Our doctor measured the skin on the fingers of both hands to compare. On the fingers of his hand that healed properly there are 10 millimeters and 11 millimeters of skin, but on the fingers of his left hand there are only 3 and 4 millimeters of skin; the rest is scar tissue. So, he really did lose a significant amount of skin to scarring. We can see that he already doesn't have full range of motion with his fingers and he favors that hand over the other - keeping it somewhat curled when he crawls and when he claps his hands.
Sooooo - we're not surprised. It's been my gut feeling all along. The great thing out of this whole yuckiness is that fact that we are at the greatest children's hospital in the nation with one of the best plastic surgeon's around who specializes in - get this - HANDS! Coincidence? I think not!
We'll be at the hospital for an entire day, but Jesse will be able to go home with us at night. He'll have a cast clear up to his shoulder, but it will only stay on for two weeks, and he should not have to have any physical therapy afterwards. If minimal skin is needed, they'll take the graft from the crease in his arm; if more is needed then it will come from the crease where his leg attaches to his groin.
This whole drama has been the most traumatic thing that we have ever been through as parents, but I think we have it in perspective now and we completely trust our doctor. Most importantly, though, we have full faith and peace in The Great Physician who loves our little Jesse far more than we could ever even begin to fathom. He is good, He is safe, and He is ultimately in control.
Here's One for the Competitors....
Check this little addictive ditty out!
How many words can you type per minute? I did it three times while waiting for my bread to cook - and almost burnt it I was getting so caught up in the need for speed! My first and best time is 104 words per minute with 4 mistakes. My last two times were 99 words with 4 and then 5 mistakes. My goal is 105 with no mistakes.
For another day and another time however........the rest of my home sleeps and I must join them.
How many words can you type per minute? I did it three times while waiting for my bread to cook - and almost burnt it I was getting so caught up in the need for speed! My first and best time is 104 words per minute with 4 mistakes. My last two times were 99 words with 4 and then 5 mistakes. My goal is 105 with no mistakes.
For another day and another time however........the rest of my home sleeps and I must join them.
Sand and Grass and Grubbiness...
Oh my!
My place is officially trashed! No not really - it just got wicked sandy and grassy in a matter of moments, and I had to vac through the entire place because it was driving me crazy. We went to the ocean today for the first time since Jesse's been born, and then when we came home the boys swam out back in their kiddie pool. So, between sand from the beach and a freshly mowed lawn out back with all the little loose pieces of grass to track in, my floors were quite gritty!
Ahhhh, but sooooo worth it!
Last night, our dear friends, the Cook's, came and had a wee visit with us on their way back home to Maine. It was SO nice to see them and to see Shannie once again "with child!" Thank you guys for coming to see us even though you were fried! So nice to have a taste of home.
They left a little earlier than originally expected this morning, so VERY spur of the moment we decided to hit the road along with them and head for the beach! It was Jesse's very first time, and he absolutely loved it. I was actually very pleased with the minimal amount of sand and bits of shells that he consumed! He kept flinging his hat off of his head, but other than that and the fact that every single crevace of his body had sand in it, we had a really great time. We dug for sand crabs, built sand castles, waded in the FREEZING water, and got a yummy coffee for the road home. Once we got home, it was still so nice that we all went out back and did a little swimming in the kiddie pool and finally finished the day off with a little bit of swimming in the bathtub!
A lovely day indeed!
My place is officially trashed! No not really - it just got wicked sandy and grassy in a matter of moments, and I had to vac through the entire place because it was driving me crazy. We went to the ocean today for the first time since Jesse's been born, and then when we came home the boys swam out back in their kiddie pool. So, between sand from the beach and a freshly mowed lawn out back with all the little loose pieces of grass to track in, my floors were quite gritty!
Ahhhh, but sooooo worth it!
Last night, our dear friends, the Cook's, came and had a wee visit with us on their way back home to Maine. It was SO nice to see them and to see Shannie once again "with child!" Thank you guys for coming to see us even though you were fried! So nice to have a taste of home.
They left a little earlier than originally expected this morning, so VERY spur of the moment we decided to hit the road along with them and head for the beach! It was Jesse's very first time, and he absolutely loved it. I was actually very pleased with the minimal amount of sand and bits of shells that he consumed! He kept flinging his hat off of his head, but other than that and the fact that every single crevace of his body had sand in it, we had a really great time. We dug for sand crabs, built sand castles, waded in the FREEZING water, and got a yummy coffee for the road home. Once we got home, it was still so nice that we all went out back and did a little swimming in the kiddie pool and finally finished the day off with a little bit of swimming in the bathtub!
A lovely day indeed!
Four Under 4 in the Great Outdoors......
is surely a CHORE!
Oh my - I surely earned my wages babysitting today! I'm beat! Since the weather has been so gorgeous these past few days, I thought it would be fun for Kaden and the 2 year old that I babysit to play outside during the babies' naps, and then we could all be outside for the last little while before their mommy came home.
Well - the idea was GREAT in theory! And I actually, honestly, do think that it went fairly well - looking back; it was just a heck of a lot more work than keeping them all contained in our wee apartment! And seeing as how I am the ONLY mom in the ENTIRE complex of newlyweds, I'm sure that if anyone had their windows open this fine morning, they surely would have experienced some lovely birth control!
I can say that 100% of the time, three of them were happy; but 100% of the time, one was usually crying or in Jesse's case - screaming, as well! Oh, and neither baby slept for more than 45 minutes for their morning naps, either, when they both usually give me an hour and a half each. Joy.
So anyway - we lugged out Kaden's tent and set that up, we brought out some fun snacks, I pulled their trikes around back, got both boys a dump truck, set up the slide, and we brought out books and crayons....which was nice and fun....but took a thousand trips to do so.
And then, pretty much my morning consisted of this: fishing a kazillion rocks out of Jesse's mouth, keeping Meg rotated so that she stayed out of the sun and everytime I moved her she would freak out, wiping off Meg's perpetual reflux that kept gushing out of her, keeping Reid out of the tadpole pool, getting Kaden's arm unstuck from the tree he was trying to climb, keeping Reid off the tops of the picnic tables that he kept thinking he could just step down off of, finally giving up on Jesse and just praying that he wouldn't choke, changing two poopy diapers, building a "worm house" for Kaden and consoling him when they all escaped, kissing scraped knees from diggers and falls of the trikes, keeping Jesse from attacking Meg who was laying on the ground, and referee-ing snack thiefs! Whew!
Kudos to all of you who have more than two! Maybe we'll try again when Jesse's sixteen......juuuuuuust kidding.
Oh my - I surely earned my wages babysitting today! I'm beat! Since the weather has been so gorgeous these past few days, I thought it would be fun for Kaden and the 2 year old that I babysit to play outside during the babies' naps, and then we could all be outside for the last little while before their mommy came home.
Well - the idea was GREAT in theory! And I actually, honestly, do think that it went fairly well - looking back; it was just a heck of a lot more work than keeping them all contained in our wee apartment! And seeing as how I am the ONLY mom in the ENTIRE complex of newlyweds, I'm sure that if anyone had their windows open this fine morning, they surely would have experienced some lovely birth control!
I can say that 100% of the time, three of them were happy; but 100% of the time, one was usually crying or in Jesse's case - screaming, as well! Oh, and neither baby slept for more than 45 minutes for their morning naps, either, when they both usually give me an hour and a half each. Joy.
So anyway - we lugged out Kaden's tent and set that up, we brought out some fun snacks, I pulled their trikes around back, got both boys a dump truck, set up the slide, and we brought out books and crayons....which was nice and fun....but took a thousand trips to do so.
And then, pretty much my morning consisted of this: fishing a kazillion rocks out of Jesse's mouth, keeping Meg rotated so that she stayed out of the sun and everytime I moved her she would freak out, wiping off Meg's perpetual reflux that kept gushing out of her, keeping Reid out of the tadpole pool, getting Kaden's arm unstuck from the tree he was trying to climb, keeping Reid off the tops of the picnic tables that he kept thinking he could just step down off of, finally giving up on Jesse and just praying that he wouldn't choke, changing two poopy diapers, building a "worm house" for Kaden and consoling him when they all escaped, kissing scraped knees from diggers and falls of the trikes, keeping Jesse from attacking Meg who was laying on the ground, and referee-ing snack thiefs! Whew!
Kudos to all of you who have more than two! Maybe we'll try again when Jesse's sixteen......juuuuuuust kidding.
Decisions decisions....
Oi vay!
In four short months Kev will be done with his classes, and we will be closing this chapter of our lives. It's hard to believe that we're almost done. The time really has flown for us here, and I can honestly say that I've actually enjoyed it! It's been a really fun adventure, and we've come out the other side still just as much in love - if not more - and very stable and happy....with a little Pennsylvania souvenire named Jesse to boot! Kev has had really amazing "balance" and priorities throughout this entire process, and we have never suffered as a family, despite my initial concerns coming into this!
So, now we stand at the big question of: "What do we now want to do with our lives?" There has been many a long walk while we've discussed this, and many a late night staying up wrestling through options, ideas, and dreams. We're getting pretty close to crunch time, but amazingly enough, we are both completely at peace with whatever the next step may be. We know that this is totally from the Lord because I usually freak out whenever a big change is about to take place, and I have yet to see a more detailed planner than Kev. In just a few months, we have got to make a decision...yet, we are resting and we are waiting. In our hearts we know what we want to do and where we want to be, and there are some options and ideas floating around....but, for now, we are just waiting to see what the Lord wants to show us.
Proverbs 28:25b - "He who puts his trust in the Lord shall be made fat." Although I do not really want to "be made fat," I know that there is no better place to be right now, and we are trusting.
P.S. - I know that I spelled "souvenire" wrong, I just can't find the spell check on this thing, and I'm too lazy to look it up. "souvenier?" "souveneir?" You got me.......
In four short months Kev will be done with his classes, and we will be closing this chapter of our lives. It's hard to believe that we're almost done. The time really has flown for us here, and I can honestly say that I've actually enjoyed it! It's been a really fun adventure, and we've come out the other side still just as much in love - if not more - and very stable and happy....with a little Pennsylvania souvenire named Jesse to boot! Kev has had really amazing "balance" and priorities throughout this entire process, and we have never suffered as a family, despite my initial concerns coming into this!
So, now we stand at the big question of: "What do we now want to do with our lives?" There has been many a long walk while we've discussed this, and many a late night staying up wrestling through options, ideas, and dreams. We're getting pretty close to crunch time, but amazingly enough, we are both completely at peace with whatever the next step may be. We know that this is totally from the Lord because I usually freak out whenever a big change is about to take place, and I have yet to see a more detailed planner than Kev. In just a few months, we have got to make a decision...yet, we are resting and we are waiting. In our hearts we know what we want to do and where we want to be, and there are some options and ideas floating around....but, for now, we are just waiting to see what the Lord wants to show us.
Proverbs 28:25b - "He who puts his trust in the Lord shall be made fat." Although I do not really want to "be made fat," I know that there is no better place to be right now, and we are trusting.
P.S. - I know that I spelled "souvenire" wrong, I just can't find the spell check on this thing, and I'm too lazy to look it up. "souvenier?" "souveneir?" You got me.......
A FANTASTIC Resource!
I have found - thanks to a friend - an awesome awesome blog with some awesome awesome links and resources out there specifically directed to teens and college age youth. However, I think it's awesome for any age as it is so jam packed full of great stuff. (I really wanted to say "awesome stuff" but felt that I had already overused that word). :0)
Joshua Harris (the guy who wrote the book I Kissed Dating Good-bye) has two twin brothers who share a blog that has essentially become a full-blown website. You can check them out here. They have called themselves the Rebelution and this is why:
"The official definition of the 'rebelution' is "a teenage rebellion against the low expectations of an ungodly culture." When you look around today, in terms of godly character and practical competence, our culture does not expect much of us young people. We are not only expected to do very little that is wise or good, but we're expected to do the opposite. "
Anyway, they write about anything and everything from sex to character to doing hard things, to becoming men and women to leadership etc. etc. etc. They even conducted a modesty survey awhile back that got 500,000 responses in just a few hours! So, go check them out - and check out all of their links on their sidebar, as well.
Good stuff. LOVE it.......it's awesome.
Joshua Harris (the guy who wrote the book I Kissed Dating Good-bye) has two twin brothers who share a blog that has essentially become a full-blown website. You can check them out here. They have called themselves the Rebelution and this is why:
"The official definition of the 'rebelution' is "a teenage rebellion against the low expectations of an ungodly culture." When you look around today, in terms of godly character and practical competence, our culture does not expect much of us young people. We are not only expected to do very little that is wise or good, but we're expected to do the opposite. "
Anyway, they write about anything and everything from sex to character to doing hard things, to becoming men and women to leadership etc. etc. etc. They even conducted a modesty survey awhile back that got 500,000 responses in just a few hours! So, go check them out - and check out all of their links on their sidebar, as well.
Good stuff. LOVE it.......it's awesome.
Bwaaaaaah!
Do you ever have one of those days where you feel a smidgin smothered and almost claustrophobic by those precious little creations of joy called your children? Whew! Today, I feel like both of my boys are resembling two little leeches - wanting to stay perpetually attached to Mama without the slightest idea of how to entertain themselves.
While drying my hair this morning, they both chose to stay in the teeniest room that we have that has absoutely no toys - our bathroom - and they just kind of sprawled across the floor...and then they drummed on the toilet lid with MY toothbrush......then one tried to climb my leg....you get the picture. And that's kind of how our morning has gone! They have just felt like using me as their own personal jungle gym all morning!
I just might FREAK out! Oh my! As a mom, there are just days where personal space does not exist! Usually, I love it, but then there are other days.......
So, I'm now going to give Kaden some quality Mommy time while Jesse sleeps, and then as soon as the Jester awakens from his morning slumber, we are headed out to the great outdoors where we can all get a little fresh air and run wild.......myself included!
While drying my hair this morning, they both chose to stay in the teeniest room that we have that has absoutely no toys - our bathroom - and they just kind of sprawled across the floor...and then they drummed on the toilet lid with MY toothbrush......then one tried to climb my leg....you get the picture. And that's kind of how our morning has gone! They have just felt like using me as their own personal jungle gym all morning!
I just might FREAK out! Oh my! As a mom, there are just days where personal space does not exist! Usually, I love it, but then there are other days.......
So, I'm now going to give Kaden some quality Mommy time while Jesse sleeps, and then as soon as the Jester awakens from his morning slumber, we are headed out to the great outdoors where we can all get a little fresh air and run wild.......myself included!
Some Wee Updates
Whew! It's been awhile since I've last posted. As it becomes more summer-like here, I tend to "sit" less and less.
We are outside most of our waking hours doing lots of walks and bike rides, lots of looking for new little critters, and lots of exploring and park visiting. Our polywogs have now moved to their luxury suite in the backyard and are happily swimming around in Kaden's old kiddie pool. And I'm seriously thinking of trying to sweet talk Kaden into releasing his little salamanders. I'm just starting to feel bad for them all cooped up in their tiny cage. What sort of life is that? We could always look for new ones to take their place! And just today, he found a long "thousand legger" centipede thingy at church that bites, so I'm told. Sick-aroo, but I said he could keep it. So, maybe this could take "Ant-Ant" & "Joshua's" place???
I've never been a fan of keeping things caged. No matter how little something may be. Even when these tadpoles start to get huge, I plan to release them at the school's pond. And someday I want chickens - but only if they can roam free! My brother thinks that is a numb idea, but that's what I want someday....
So let's see...what else.....Every once in awhile on a Saturday family day, we just kind of head out for an adventure with no particular destiny in mind. Yesterday was one of those sorts of days. We ended up going out to breakfast where Jesse acted absolutely WILD, but it was still fun and yummy. Then we came home so he could take his morning nap. When he woke up - only a half hour later because he's back to napping REALLY horribly - we hit the road again, and went to a fun little Amish market and then.....oh my heart palpitates just writing about this......we found FOUR yard sales! Whooo-hooooo! Tis the season! I was so excited! We didn't even find any great treasures, it was just so much fun to poke around.
Okay. That's all for now. I have lots of things that have been on mind to write about lately, but all in good time. Happy Sunday, all!
We are outside most of our waking hours doing lots of walks and bike rides, lots of looking for new little critters, and lots of exploring and park visiting. Our polywogs have now moved to their luxury suite in the backyard and are happily swimming around in Kaden's old kiddie pool. And I'm seriously thinking of trying to sweet talk Kaden into releasing his little salamanders. I'm just starting to feel bad for them all cooped up in their tiny cage. What sort of life is that? We could always look for new ones to take their place! And just today, he found a long "thousand legger" centipede thingy at church that bites, so I'm told. Sick-aroo, but I said he could keep it. So, maybe this could take "Ant-Ant" & "Joshua's" place???
I've never been a fan of keeping things caged. No matter how little something may be. Even when these tadpoles start to get huge, I plan to release them at the school's pond. And someday I want chickens - but only if they can roam free! My brother thinks that is a numb idea, but that's what I want someday....
So let's see...what else.....Every once in awhile on a Saturday family day, we just kind of head out for an adventure with no particular destiny in mind. Yesterday was one of those sorts of days. We ended up going out to breakfast where Jesse acted absolutely WILD, but it was still fun and yummy. Then we came home so he could take his morning nap. When he woke up - only a half hour later because he's back to napping REALLY horribly - we hit the road again, and went to a fun little Amish market and then.....oh my heart palpitates just writing about this......we found FOUR yard sales! Whooo-hooooo! Tis the season! I was so excited! We didn't even find any great treasures, it was just so much fun to poke around.
Okay. That's all for now. I have lots of things that have been on mind to write about lately, but all in good time. Happy Sunday, all!
It's Official....
Spring has sprung in these here parts!
It's true what my friend wrote the other day: "Winter, I hardly knew ye!" I think we maybe got an inch of snow over here this winter, and I like that just fine. My family, however, up in "The County" of Maine has broken a record that's been held since the 50's for the amount of snowfall. They're still buried! And that, my friends, is where I am a hypocritical "Maine-iac."
As of just a few moments ago, I dug out my capri's and my Keen's; I packed my sweaters away, and there is NO going back. Sheer bliss.....for me, anyway. Sorry, Shay. You belong in Maine, Girl! I was sweating on my walk today - true beads of sweat on my forehead. Yup, it's true. And by Thursday, the weather is supposed to hit close to seventy degrees. Glorious!
BUT.....then in just a few short months I shall be dying from the humidity and complaining that I'm melting, and I will be craving my Maine weather then. It's rough. What's a girl to do? :0)
It's true what my friend wrote the other day: "Winter, I hardly knew ye!" I think we maybe got an inch of snow over here this winter, and I like that just fine. My family, however, up in "The County" of Maine has broken a record that's been held since the 50's for the amount of snowfall. They're still buried! And that, my friends, is where I am a hypocritical "Maine-iac."
As of just a few moments ago, I dug out my capri's and my Keen's; I packed my sweaters away, and there is NO going back. Sheer bliss.....for me, anyway. Sorry, Shay. You belong in Maine, Girl! I was sweating on my walk today - true beads of sweat on my forehead. Yup, it's true. And by Thursday, the weather is supposed to hit close to seventy degrees. Glorious!
BUT.....then in just a few short months I shall be dying from the humidity and complaining that I'm melting, and I will be craving my Maine weather then. It's rough. What's a girl to do? :0)
Happy Birthday, Aaron!
Well, my baby, six foot five inch brother just turned twenty-seven yesterday. Crazy. Crazy. I don't even know how often you read my blog, baby bro, but this one's for you. I tell you every time I see you or talk to you, and I'll tell you now: You're the best LITTLE brother in the whole wide world. (Clay is the best BIG brother, right?) :0) You guys are the reasons why I've always wanted boys. Thanks for being one of my best friends, thanks for all of our crazy memories, and thanks for being you. I love you and I miss you tons. Happy Birthday!
Our Newest Acquisition
As of this afternoon, I have yet another new centerpiece for my kitchen table to go right along with our two salamanders. We have now acquired a small bucket filled with a few hundred baby polywogs! This is very exciting as some of them have not even hatched out of their jelly! I have a very cool book that teaches all about tadpoles and frogs, and hopefully some of them will live long enough for us to be able to see them grow into full-fledged froggies. We shall watch and see. The book says it'll take about twelve weeks. It's not looking too hopeful with all of the handling that they are getting.....
We'll keep 'em on the table for a week or so, but then we're going to move them to a luxury suite in the backyard - their very own kiddie pool. Kaden can't resist holding them and giving them snuggles, and I've already scraped several off of the table and rescued others from his chair. I have visions of them landing on the floor for scrumptious little Jesse snacks. So, very soon, they shall be moved.
For now - there's a whole lotta' creatures starting to take over my domain.......
For those of you who were wondering - "Ant Ant" and "Joshua" seem to be getting along famously, and our wax worms have yet to become beetles....although one has shed his skin. Disgust-o.
We'll keep 'em on the table for a week or so, but then we're going to move them to a luxury suite in the backyard - their very own kiddie pool. Kaden can't resist holding them and giving them snuggles, and I've already scraped several off of the table and rescued others from his chair. I have visions of them landing on the floor for scrumptious little Jesse snacks. So, very soon, they shall be moved.
For now - there's a whole lotta' creatures starting to take over my domain.......
For those of you who were wondering - "Ant Ant" and "Joshua" seem to be getting along famously, and our wax worms have yet to become beetles....although one has shed his skin. Disgust-o.
Oh Happy Day!
Seeing as our time here is quickly drawing to a close, we are trying to visit and re-visit all of our favorite spots as much as we can during our family days, and to also conquer all of the places that we've been meaning to check out ever since we've been here.
So, today - we totally conquered!
We put the boys in the car at 9:30 in the morning, just in time for Jesse's morning nap, and we did not get home until about 7:30 tonight! We drove all over tarnation and explored different parks, we got happily lost a couple of times, we found a fun little coffee shop in a funky little town, we caught salamanders and worms - none of which we brought home thank you very much, the boys went fishing, we drank camp coffee by the river bank, and the boys went wading in their wellies! The weather was GLORIOUS, and we just had an awesome day doing what we love to do. We threw Jesse in the backpack and let him nap on the fly. He is most happy outside, anyway; and Kaden got to run free and wild for hours on end.
Places we scoped out: Ralph Stover Park - one of our absolute faves. Here we did the fishing, the catching of salamanders, the wading, and the drinking of camp coffee. Ringing Rocks Park was next. This is a fun little place that is just a huge field of rocks out in the middle of nowhere. If you hit the rocks with a hammer - they make different fun ringing noises. Alas, we did not come prepared and had only a large stick. It didn't quite give off the same feel, I am sure, but we had fun whaling on the rocks anyway. And then we also happened upon a fun little town over in Jersey called Frenchtown that is very old and beautiful and had delish coffee. And all along the way, we also drove through a couple of other little state parks here and there and just enjoyed the country and the woods and the water.
Aaaaaaaaah! My soul is refreshed and rejuvenated!
So, today - we totally conquered!
We put the boys in the car at 9:30 in the morning, just in time for Jesse's morning nap, and we did not get home until about 7:30 tonight! We drove all over tarnation and explored different parks, we got happily lost a couple of times, we found a fun little coffee shop in a funky little town, we caught salamanders and worms - none of which we brought home thank you very much, the boys went fishing, we drank camp coffee by the river bank, and the boys went wading in their wellies! The weather was GLORIOUS, and we just had an awesome day doing what we love to do. We threw Jesse in the backpack and let him nap on the fly. He is most happy outside, anyway; and Kaden got to run free and wild for hours on end.
Places we scoped out: Ralph Stover Park - one of our absolute faves. Here we did the fishing, the catching of salamanders, the wading, and the drinking of camp coffee. Ringing Rocks Park was next. This is a fun little place that is just a huge field of rocks out in the middle of nowhere. If you hit the rocks with a hammer - they make different fun ringing noises. Alas, we did not come prepared and had only a large stick. It didn't quite give off the same feel, I am sure, but we had fun whaling on the rocks anyway. And then we also happened upon a fun little town over in Jersey called Frenchtown that is very old and beautiful and had delish coffee. And all along the way, we also drove through a couple of other little state parks here and there and just enjoyed the country and the woods and the water.
Aaaaaaaaah! My soul is refreshed and rejuvenated!
Ten Months Old Today!
Hard to believe our wee one is almost a year old. Crazy! Where has the time gone? Jesse is THIS close to walking, and I do believe that we are going to be in for one wild ride! He scoots along all of the furniture, and he can stand by himself for a couple of seconds before falling over. He is VERY proud of these new accomplishments.
He is also standing up in his bed whenever it's time for naps and screaming bloody murder before crashing to sleep, and he yells LOUDLY whenever he wants something....and he wants it NOW! I tell you, there is nothing that is mild mannered about this child. He may just send me into an early grave! Even his "lovies" are rough. The other day, he literally took a divet out of my cheek with his fingernails when he was giving me his love pats! No joke. Heavenly day!
On the flipside of this intensity, though, is the fact that when he is happy and silly - which is more often than not - he is also intense about this, as well. So, for the most part he completely delights us. A whole lotta intense delight and intense exasperation going on around here these days!
Happy ten months, sweet wild child!
He is also standing up in his bed whenever it's time for naps and screaming bloody murder before crashing to sleep, and he yells LOUDLY whenever he wants something....and he wants it NOW! I tell you, there is nothing that is mild mannered about this child. He may just send me into an early grave! Even his "lovies" are rough. The other day, he literally took a divet out of my cheek with his fingernails when he was giving me his love pats! No joke. Heavenly day!
On the flipside of this intensity, though, is the fact that when he is happy and silly - which is more often than not - he is also intense about this, as well. So, for the most part he completely delights us. A whole lotta intense delight and intense exasperation going on around here these days!
Happy ten months, sweet wild child!
Charlie Bit Me
Okay, I can't for the life of me figure out how to download a YouTube video to my blog, so if anyone could kindly help me that would be great. I thought I had it figured out. It said that it might take "several minutes" to download. Well, four hours of several minutes later it's still telling me that it's downloading, so I finally cancelled figuring I didn't do something quite right.
Anyway - there is this video on there that someone in Kev's class showed for some reason, and he came home and showed me. Seriously - we both just about died laughing. I had tears rolling down my cheeks. This little 55 second clip between two little British brothers fits our Kaden and Jesse like you would not believe.
Those of you who know our boys, just watch it and see if you agree with us. Those of you who don't - well, welcome to our lives! Just go to YouTube and type in "Charlie Bit Me." It should be a 55 second clip of two little brothers sitting on a chair together. It's my fave!
Anyway - there is this video on there that someone in Kev's class showed for some reason, and he came home and showed me. Seriously - we both just about died laughing. I had tears rolling down my cheeks. This little 55 second clip between two little British brothers fits our Kaden and Jesse like you would not believe.
Those of you who know our boys, just watch it and see if you agree with us. Those of you who don't - well, welcome to our lives! Just go to YouTube and type in "Charlie Bit Me." It should be a 55 second clip of two little brothers sitting on a chair together. It's my fave!
Happy 200th Post!
Wow! It's my 200th post today! Who knew I had so much to say?......Okay....dumb question. Quickly moving on......
Anyhoo - in honor of this glorious occasion, I'm going to share with you all a family favorite recipe. Over at the Booker homestead, we are all carbo-holics - especially my wee ones. My in-laws have this crazy healthy bread that they make and have for breakfast every morning. (There is no one on this green earth who I know of that eats more healthy than these two. Not one single thing that is not good for them ever enters their mouths. They don't even eat organic food out of cans because of the aluminum). So, I've gotten some fun recipes from them over the years, and I'm going to share this one with you now.
This is a very hearty and heavy bread, so we don't really use it for making sandwiches. It's the best eaten as toast with some yummy natural peanut butter and homemade jam slathered on. De-lish! I've adapted the recipe a wee bit, because I like my bread more moist than they do. So, I'll give you the recipe that I use, with the original in parenthesis. I also use my bread machine to do all of the kneading and rising for me. I know. I know. It's not TRULY homemade when you do it that way. But, I'm lazy in the kitchen, and I wouldn't make it nearly so often if I stood there and did the kneading all myself. You can do it all the old fashioned way just like you would make any other bread, if that suits you better. I take it out of the machine and let it do its final rise in a bread pan before I bake it. Okay, here goes.....
1 1/2 Cups whole wheat flour
2 Cups unbleached white flour (The original recipe calls for 1C. wheat, 1C white, 1C spelt, and 1C combo of other flours such as: quinoa, millet, rye, brown rice, etc).
1 1/2 Cups old fashioned oatmeal - NOT quick cooking oats (If you go by the original recipe, only use 1C of oatmeal because of adding all of the other flours. Clear as mud?)
2 heaping tsp. dry yeast
1 1/2 tsp. sea salt
2 heaping TBlsp. wheat gluten (DO NOT omit. Necessary to bind the flours)
3 TBlsp. wheat germ
2 TBlsp. oat bran
1 TBlsp. sesame seeds
1 TBlsp. poppy seeds
Approx. 1/2 cup ground flax seed (You need to grind it for your body to process it best)
1/3 Cup sweetener - I usually do mostly honey with some molasses mixed in
1/3 Cup olive oil
1 2/3 Cup water (The original recipe just calls for 2 Cups of water. The oil makes it moist)
If using a bread machine, put it on the dough setting and walk away for 1 1/2 hours. When done, put it over into a greased bread pan and let rise until twice its size. If doing the old fashioned way - just do what you do!
Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes. The top should be nicely browned.
It's the best!
Anyhoo - in honor of this glorious occasion, I'm going to share with you all a family favorite recipe. Over at the Booker homestead, we are all carbo-holics - especially my wee ones. My in-laws have this crazy healthy bread that they make and have for breakfast every morning. (There is no one on this green earth who I know of that eats more healthy than these two. Not one single thing that is not good for them ever enters their mouths. They don't even eat organic food out of cans because of the aluminum). So, I've gotten some fun recipes from them over the years, and I'm going to share this one with you now.
This is a very hearty and heavy bread, so we don't really use it for making sandwiches. It's the best eaten as toast with some yummy natural peanut butter and homemade jam slathered on. De-lish! I've adapted the recipe a wee bit, because I like my bread more moist than they do. So, I'll give you the recipe that I use, with the original in parenthesis. I also use my bread machine to do all of the kneading and rising for me. I know. I know. It's not TRULY homemade when you do it that way. But, I'm lazy in the kitchen, and I wouldn't make it nearly so often if I stood there and did the kneading all myself. You can do it all the old fashioned way just like you would make any other bread, if that suits you better. I take it out of the machine and let it do its final rise in a bread pan before I bake it. Okay, here goes.....
1 1/2 Cups whole wheat flour
2 Cups unbleached white flour (The original recipe calls for 1C. wheat, 1C white, 1C spelt, and 1C combo of other flours such as: quinoa, millet, rye, brown rice, etc).
1 1/2 Cups old fashioned oatmeal - NOT quick cooking oats (If you go by the original recipe, only use 1C of oatmeal because of adding all of the other flours. Clear as mud?)
2 heaping tsp. dry yeast
1 1/2 tsp. sea salt
2 heaping TBlsp. wheat gluten (DO NOT omit. Necessary to bind the flours)
3 TBlsp. wheat germ
2 TBlsp. oat bran
1 TBlsp. sesame seeds
1 TBlsp. poppy seeds
Approx. 1/2 cup ground flax seed (You need to grind it for your body to process it best)
1/3 Cup sweetener - I usually do mostly honey with some molasses mixed in
1/3 Cup olive oil
1 2/3 Cup water (The original recipe just calls for 2 Cups of water. The oil makes it moist)
If using a bread machine, put it on the dough setting and walk away for 1 1/2 hours. When done, put it over into a greased bread pan and let rise until twice its size. If doing the old fashioned way - just do what you do!
Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes. The top should be nicely browned.
It's the best!
I've Been Robbed!
Over the past couple of weeks, I've noticed something strange going on whenever I've tried to access my Discover credit card. Some places would accept it, but other places would tell me that I was being denied. I thought this was weird seeing as how it doesn't expire until July. I hardly ever use it, though, so I didn't really think too much of it.
Until yesterday.
I mentioned to Kev how I just tried to pick up a couple of groceries and I was not being allowed access. He suggested I call their customer service line, and come to find out.......some dude (or dude-ette for all I know) has been using my numbers to get gas over in Brooklyn, New York! Of all the nerve! I have no idea how they got my info, but for the past couple of weeks, someone has been swiping gas with my numbers. I'm not quite sure why they've only used it at gas stations, though. That's a little weird....but besides the point.
Our card company noticed and thought it to be out of the ordinary card use activity for me, so they put a hold on it, and that's why I haven't been able to use it! Frustrating as all get out, and I'm actually feeling a little violated to tell you the truth. But, those cards have now been cut and trashed so Mr. or Mrs. Farty-Pants over in Brooklyn will now have to find someone else to rip off. Yeesh.
Until yesterday.
I mentioned to Kev how I just tried to pick up a couple of groceries and I was not being allowed access. He suggested I call their customer service line, and come to find out.......some dude (or dude-ette for all I know) has been using my numbers to get gas over in Brooklyn, New York! Of all the nerve! I have no idea how they got my info, but for the past couple of weeks, someone has been swiping gas with my numbers. I'm not quite sure why they've only used it at gas stations, though. That's a little weird....but besides the point.
Our card company noticed and thought it to be out of the ordinary card use activity for me, so they put a hold on it, and that's why I haven't been able to use it! Frustrating as all get out, and I'm actually feeling a little violated to tell you the truth. But, those cards have now been cut and trashed so Mr. or Mrs. Farty-Pants over in Brooklyn will now have to find someone else to rip off. Yeesh.
Friday Fun
Well, tonight we headed out to rent a movie and instead found ourselves driving around Core Creek Park, Dunkin Donuts in hand, and just checking things out. We counted over twenty deer and then decided to take a little stroll around the river and have a look see. We found an awesome place to go and hike and have a picnic tomorrow, but the highlight of the evening was......drum roll please......the finding and keeping of yet another salamander for Kaden. This one is quite large and has been named "Joshua." Oh the fun! We researched online to make sure he won't kill our baby "Ant Ant," and the verdict seems to be that they will do just fine. Hmmmm...I wonder how many more we can find tomorrow?!
Yep. So, I've gone from having something cutesy as my table centerpiece to having two little salamanders AND two meal worms in another little plastic container right beside them - front and center. We also have a jar of mealworms in the fridge for our salamanders to dine on, but we've been told that if you don't refrigerate them they will turn into beetles. So, we shall see!
Peter and Shan.....are you still looking forward to coming for a visit? I promise that we'll move the critters when we eat! :0) But for now, science experiments are at work. Can two salamanders live together as friends? And will our meal worms truly turn into beetles? Stay tuned!!
Yep. So, I've gone from having something cutesy as my table centerpiece to having two little salamanders AND two meal worms in another little plastic container right beside them - front and center. We also have a jar of mealworms in the fridge for our salamanders to dine on, but we've been told that if you don't refrigerate them they will turn into beetles. So, we shall see!
Peter and Shan.....are you still looking forward to coming for a visit? I promise that we'll move the critters when we eat! :0) But for now, science experiments are at work. Can two salamanders live together as friends? And will our meal worms truly turn into beetles? Stay tuned!!
When Mommy is Away....
When Kev got home from school today he let me scoot out for a few hours while he offered to stay home with the boysies. This was a very nice, unexpected gift, and I flew like the wind conquering all of the little things that have been on my list for weeks but that haven't been quite worth unstrapping two wee ones in and out of cars seats in order to get done. (Whew! THAT was a really long run-on sentence!)
So, anyway....I scored a brand new winter jacket for Jesse to wear next year at a whopping $6! Whoo-hoo! I found a couple of treasures at my little antiquey store that I love, did some returns, found a bathing suit that this body that has birthed two can somewhat handle, and purchased a birthday gift for a friend. Not too shabby for someone who hates to shop! Anyway, I digress from the point of this post.
Upon returning home, my apartment had been transformed! While I was away, Daddy and the boys set up our HUMONGOUS tent in the middle of the living room, put a camp chair in there for Kaden - along with ALL of his stuffed animals and tools for fixing whatever needed fixing, and there they sat - happily playing and eating pancakes for supper! Oh my word! It was so cute, and Kaden was so hyper and happy. Our neighbors from upstairs came down to ask us something and as soon as the door opened, they had to step right into the tent in order to even get into our apartment! So, they came in and had a little sit down for a few minutes with us right inside the tent. Fun fun!
It is very true that Daddy's and Mommy's play very differently with their children! I would have - you know - colored with them or read stories.......
So, anyway....I scored a brand new winter jacket for Jesse to wear next year at a whopping $6! Whoo-hoo! I found a couple of treasures at my little antiquey store that I love, did some returns, found a bathing suit that this body that has birthed two can somewhat handle, and purchased a birthday gift for a friend. Not too shabby for someone who hates to shop! Anyway, I digress from the point of this post.
Upon returning home, my apartment had been transformed! While I was away, Daddy and the boys set up our HUMONGOUS tent in the middle of the living room, put a camp chair in there for Kaden - along with ALL of his stuffed animals and tools for fixing whatever needed fixing, and there they sat - happily playing and eating pancakes for supper! Oh my word! It was so cute, and Kaden was so hyper and happy. Our neighbors from upstairs came down to ask us something and as soon as the door opened, they had to step right into the tent in order to even get into our apartment! So, they came in and had a little sit down for a few minutes with us right inside the tent. Fun fun!
It is very true that Daddy's and Mommy's play very differently with their children! I would have - you know - colored with them or read stories.......
My New Fave!
This, my friends, is the MOST delish coffee of all time! Green Mountain only puts it out for a few months, so one is required to stock up should they so desire to consume this beverage all throughout the year, but oh man - it is SO good!
One would argue that I am not a true coffee lover because this is flavored. However, I beg to differ. I can drink the strongest of brews with the best of you thanks to hubby working at Starbucks for those many months. I've actually gone from thinking that their "bold" brews tasted like sheep excrement (a proper term if I do say so myself, Scott L!) to rather enjoying them. So, I can honestly say that I like ALL coffee.
But this is by far, the MOST delish of all!
Thanks to my phone call with Angie this afternoon, I am properly wired on this fantastic-ness.
P.S. Can anyone tell me why this picture is at the bottom of my post instead of up top where I asked it to be? Hmmmm.....still learning.
One would argue that I am not a true coffee lover because this is flavored. However, I beg to differ. I can drink the strongest of brews with the best of you thanks to hubby working at Starbucks for those many months. I've actually gone from thinking that their "bold" brews tasted like sheep excrement (a proper term if I do say so myself, Scott L!) to rather enjoying them. So, I can honestly say that I like ALL coffee.
But this is by far, the MOST delish of all!
Thanks to my phone call with Angie this afternoon, I am properly wired on this fantastic-ness.P.S. Can anyone tell me why this picture is at the bottom of my post instead of up top where I asked it to be? Hmmmm.....still learning.
Dying Phones.....
So I just got off the phone with my dear friend Angie. It's no secret that I really don't enjoy talking on the phone, but when it comes to her it never seems long enough! As soon as I see her number on my caller ID, I immediately reach for the coffee, grind myself a strong brew, and settle in.
EXCEPT THE PAST TWO CONVERSATIONS MY PHONE HAS DIED MIDWAY into our solving all of the world's problems! I tell you what, if I was a swearing woman........ Just kidding. Kind of. Man - that burns me! Seriously. My phone only dies with her, because it's never usually off that hook for that long of a time!
I love our conversations. They always go all over the place with tons of little random rabbit trails everywhere! They might start with talking about her daughters sharing a room together, move to school choices, jump over to how things are going at her church, and end up with talking about how comparion to others destroys our own contentment! And that's just one bitty conversation! I love it!
So I sit here wired up on WAY too much coffee - I never drink midday - and feeling frustrated that my phone died midway through one of your sentences. But, I'm also thankful for you, dear friend. Although I have seen you only three or four times since our Bible School days, I love that we just pick up wherever we leave off. I love that you love me for who I am. I love that you are real with me about your life. I love that you're not afraid to share your struggles with me. And I love that you inspire me, you stretch me, you make me think, and you make me laugh!
You were the highlight of my day, dear friend. Much love to you!
EXCEPT THE PAST TWO CONVERSATIONS MY PHONE HAS DIED MIDWAY into our solving all of the world's problems! I tell you what, if I was a swearing woman........ Just kidding. Kind of. Man - that burns me! Seriously. My phone only dies with her, because it's never usually off that hook for that long of a time!
I love our conversations. They always go all over the place with tons of little random rabbit trails everywhere! They might start with talking about her daughters sharing a room together, move to school choices, jump over to how things are going at her church, and end up with talking about how comparion to others destroys our own contentment! And that's just one bitty conversation! I love it!
So I sit here wired up on WAY too much coffee - I never drink midday - and feeling frustrated that my phone died midway through one of your sentences. But, I'm also thankful for you, dear friend. Although I have seen you only three or four times since our Bible School days, I love that we just pick up wherever we leave off. I love that you love me for who I am. I love that you are real with me about your life. I love that you're not afraid to share your struggles with me. And I love that you inspire me, you stretch me, you make me think, and you make me laugh!
You were the highlight of my day, dear friend. Much love to you!
Yackety Yack....
So, nothing new or exciting to report today. Just life as we know it.
It's beautifully sunny out today and is supposed to hit about fifty degrees. I babysit the wee ones, and I may just bundle us all up and head outside if we get a little cagey. As I type, the babies are sleeping and Kaden and Reid are up at the table giggling through snack. It's been a good morning. All three of the boys - Jesse included - had a little band going on this morning. Kaden played a horn, Reid banged on some drums, and Kaden frantically shook some maracas and managed to only konk himself in the head a couple of times. Little Meg - the only girl of the group - just sat propped up on the couch with her eyes as big as saucers wondering what all the rukus was about! It was pretty cute! I got some good video footage.
We'll go for a walk before naptime. When the boys wake up, Daddy is coming home early from school, and we're going to head out to a park for a few hours before bedtime. It's been pretty lazy and quiet around here since Easter. Yesterday, we did lots of painting, a little baking, a little laundry, a little digging of worms for our salamander, a little reading of books, a little riding of bikes, and a lot of usage of our imaginations. Today, we'll probably do a nice repeat of yesterday - only with a little Rita's thrown in for good measure!
Life is good.
It's beautifully sunny out today and is supposed to hit about fifty degrees. I babysit the wee ones, and I may just bundle us all up and head outside if we get a little cagey. As I type, the babies are sleeping and Kaden and Reid are up at the table giggling through snack. It's been a good morning. All three of the boys - Jesse included - had a little band going on this morning. Kaden played a horn, Reid banged on some drums, and Kaden frantically shook some maracas and managed to only konk himself in the head a couple of times. Little Meg - the only girl of the group - just sat propped up on the couch with her eyes as big as saucers wondering what all the rukus was about! It was pretty cute! I got some good video footage.
We'll go for a walk before naptime. When the boys wake up, Daddy is coming home early from school, and we're going to head out to a park for a few hours before bedtime. It's been pretty lazy and quiet around here since Easter. Yesterday, we did lots of painting, a little baking, a little laundry, a little digging of worms for our salamander, a little reading of books, a little riding of bikes, and a lot of usage of our imaginations. Today, we'll probably do a nice repeat of yesterday - only with a little Rita's thrown in for good measure!
Life is good.
Happy Easter!
Despite the unearthly hour of having to get ready for church today, I do believe that this was one of my most favorite Easters, thus far in my wee little life! Nothing overly amazing happened - it was just one of those days that was really good.
We woke both boys out of a dead sleep and put them in the car in their p.j.'s at 5:30 and headed off to our sunrise service. I had hoped that they would fall back asleep and get another 45 minutes of shut eye on our way. Kaden is used to getting up early for trips, and he usually goes right back to sleep within a few minutes. Not today though, my friends! Jesse found it quite exciting to be all cozy in his carseat in the pitch dark first thing in the morning, and he happily grunted and growled the entire way to church, thus keeping Kaden awake. Both boys were happy and content, though, despite missing some much needed sleep.
We had a really nice sunrise service followed by a delish breakfast. And then we had a great Easter service that was pretty packed out with everyone's family and loved ones. We had no practice after church, so we made it home around noonish, which is really nice for us. After a hodge podge of sorts for lunch, the boys went to nap, and I actually took an impromptu nap with Jesse which was really nice. We haven't done that for awhile.
Then, when everyone woke up, it was still so beautiful and warm we decided to go have a BBQ and picnic at Core Creek Park. We made yummy burgers, played on the playground, went exploring in the woods, picked numerous rocks, sticks, and leaves out of Jesse's mouth, and then came home - tired and grubby, but happy. Jesse is snoozing away, Kaden and Daddy just got done playing cars and now they're snuggled up on the couch reading, and I am off to snuggle with my hubby after Child Numero Uno hits the hay! A GREAT day!
We woke both boys out of a dead sleep and put them in the car in their p.j.'s at 5:30 and headed off to our sunrise service. I had hoped that they would fall back asleep and get another 45 minutes of shut eye on our way. Kaden is used to getting up early for trips, and he usually goes right back to sleep within a few minutes. Not today though, my friends! Jesse found it quite exciting to be all cozy in his carseat in the pitch dark first thing in the morning, and he happily grunted and growled the entire way to church, thus keeping Kaden awake. Both boys were happy and content, though, despite missing some much needed sleep.
We had a really nice sunrise service followed by a delish breakfast. And then we had a great Easter service that was pretty packed out with everyone's family and loved ones. We had no practice after church, so we made it home around noonish, which is really nice for us. After a hodge podge of sorts for lunch, the boys went to nap, and I actually took an impromptu nap with Jesse which was really nice. We haven't done that for awhile.
Then, when everyone woke up, it was still so beautiful and warm we decided to go have a BBQ and picnic at Core Creek Park. We made yummy burgers, played on the playground, went exploring in the woods, picked numerous rocks, sticks, and leaves out of Jesse's mouth, and then came home - tired and grubby, but happy. Jesse is snoozing away, Kaden and Daddy just got done playing cars and now they're snuggled up on the couch reading, and I am off to snuggle with my hubby after Child Numero Uno hits the hay! A GREAT day!
Spring Days!
Today was SO gorgeous! Sunny and warm with crocuses and daffodils in bloom. It was so nice!
We hid a whole whack of eggs for Kaden to hunt this morning. He's been finding them all throughout the day! I know that a lot of people don't do anything commercialized with their kids for Easter, but we feel that there is no harm in having him go on a little hunt once a year. Here comes my justification: We've read the Easter story while using the resurrection eggs more times than I can count, we've talked and prayed together about Easter every day for weeks now, and we're making the resurrection rolls tomorrow, so I feel like we've balanced it pretty well. Kaden knows what Easter is all about, and he's just as excited to go to church tomorrow and celebrate as he was to hunt for his eggs this morning. So anyway, that's just what we do, and it's been fun!
We went to the pet store after Jesse's nap and got Kaden's salamander some wax worms seeing as how he's not enjoying his worms or crickets. Spoiled rotten, he is. Then, we went to a fun little Amish market and got some yummies for Easter dinner tomorrow and had a yummy little lunch. No big plans for getting together with people tomorrow. We have to leave our place at 5:30 in the morning to make it to our sunrise service, so we'll keep it pretty low key for the rest of the day.
So...it's been a nice family day. By the way - girlies from home, thanks for the fun phone call message! So nice that you were thinking of me while you were out and about! Is there a Panera in Bangor? Whoo-hoo! French onion soup, here I come!
Happy Easter, all!
We hid a whole whack of eggs for Kaden to hunt this morning. He's been finding them all throughout the day! I know that a lot of people don't do anything commercialized with their kids for Easter, but we feel that there is no harm in having him go on a little hunt once a year. Here comes my justification: We've read the Easter story while using the resurrection eggs more times than I can count, we've talked and prayed together about Easter every day for weeks now, and we're making the resurrection rolls tomorrow, so I feel like we've balanced it pretty well. Kaden knows what Easter is all about, and he's just as excited to go to church tomorrow and celebrate as he was to hunt for his eggs this morning. So anyway, that's just what we do, and it's been fun!
We went to the pet store after Jesse's nap and got Kaden's salamander some wax worms seeing as how he's not enjoying his worms or crickets. Spoiled rotten, he is. Then, we went to a fun little Amish market and got some yummies for Easter dinner tomorrow and had a yummy little lunch. No big plans for getting together with people tomorrow. We have to leave our place at 5:30 in the morning to make it to our sunrise service, so we'll keep it pretty low key for the rest of the day.
So...it's been a nice family day. By the way - girlies from home, thanks for the fun phone call message! So nice that you were thinking of me while you were out and about! Is there a Panera in Bangor? Whoo-hoo! French onion soup, here I come!
Happy Easter, all!
It's a Sad Day....
Well, my dear friend Rachey left me today. Our week together absolutely flew by. She was my sanity out here when she and her hubby lived here. We were in the same program together, the same stage of life marriage wise, we both had babies while we were out here, we share the same loves and interests, and, well - I was just blessed to have her for those two years. This last year has been a little rough without her!
So, we had seven days of visiting, eating, going on adventures whenever one of the three kiddos wasn't napping, and just some really great talks sharing hopes, dreams, struggles, wisdom, advice - you name it. It was Heaven. And tonight I'm sad.
On another note......I just don't think it's going to work out between your wee one and my Jesse. I think she's looking for a guy who is, shall we say, a little less intense? She didn't seem overly impressed by his bathtime splashing, or by his toy bonking. Come to think of it, by the end of the drive to the airport today, she really didn't even want him looking at her, did she? :0) Just kidding! She did awesome with two crazies for the week!
So, we had seven days of visiting, eating, going on adventures whenever one of the three kiddos wasn't napping, and just some really great talks sharing hopes, dreams, struggles, wisdom, advice - you name it. It was Heaven. And tonight I'm sad.
On another note......I just don't think it's going to work out between your wee one and my Jesse. I think she's looking for a guy who is, shall we say, a little less intense? She didn't seem overly impressed by his bathtime splashing, or by his toy bonking. Come to think of it, by the end of the drive to the airport today, she really didn't even want him looking at her, did she? :0) Just kidding! She did awesome with two crazies for the week!
Resurrection Rolls
Here's a fun snack to make with your kiddos that is both delish and also helps them to celebrate Easter in a fun and different way:
Ingredients: 1 package refrigerated cresecent roll dough, 8 large marshmallows, 2 T. melted butter, 1 tsp. cinnamon, 1 T. sugar
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Give each child one triangle of crescent dough and a marshmallow. (The roll represents the cloth that Jesus' body was wrapped in and the marshmallow represents Jesus. Just go with it, guys!) Have each child dip the marshmallow in the melted butter. (You can explain that this represents the embalming oils). Next, dip the marshmallow in the cinnamon and sugar. (These represent the spices used to anoint Jesus' body). Wrap the coated marshmallow tightly in the crescent roll - not like a typical crescent roll, but bring up and seal the marshmallow inside. (This represents the wrapping of Jesus' body after His death). Put the rolls on an ungreased cookie sheet and place them in the oven. (This represents Jesus' tomb).
Bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove from oven, cool slightly.
When rolls are cool, the kids can open up their rolls (the burial cloths) and discover that Jesus (marshmallow) is no longer there! NOTE: IF the crescent rolls are sealed well, the marshmallow will melt and the roll will be puffed up, but empty.
HE IS RISEN!
Slightly cheesy, but fun!
Ingredients: 1 package refrigerated cresecent roll dough, 8 large marshmallows, 2 T. melted butter, 1 tsp. cinnamon, 1 T. sugar
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Give each child one triangle of crescent dough and a marshmallow. (The roll represents the cloth that Jesus' body was wrapped in and the marshmallow represents Jesus. Just go with it, guys!) Have each child dip the marshmallow in the melted butter. (You can explain that this represents the embalming oils). Next, dip the marshmallow in the cinnamon and sugar. (These represent the spices used to anoint Jesus' body). Wrap the coated marshmallow tightly in the crescent roll - not like a typical crescent roll, but bring up and seal the marshmallow inside. (This represents the wrapping of Jesus' body after His death). Put the rolls on an ungreased cookie sheet and place them in the oven. (This represents Jesus' tomb).
Bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove from oven, cool slightly.
When rolls are cool, the kids can open up their rolls (the burial cloths) and discover that Jesus (marshmallow) is no longer there! NOTE: IF the crescent rolls are sealed well, the marshmallow will melt and the roll will be puffed up, but empty.
HE IS RISEN!
Slightly cheesy, but fun!
Out of Comission!
Not sure of the spelling on that word........(commission?)
Anyhoo....
I haven't done any blogging for the past few days because my dear friend Rachel - who left me and moved to Indiana - has flown in for a week long visit with her little baby! Soooo, since I only have her for a few days, we need to paint the town as red as we can with three wee ones who are all on completely different schedules! I'm soaking in every minute that I can with her and am not doing much more.
So far, we've just done a lot of visiting. We went to Lancaster for the day on Saturday and did a little antiquing, we've played outside and gone to the school to feed the ducks, (Yesterday, the duck that I like to hold chomped right down on my lip! I guess he didn't want any kisses!), we've hit a few stores, watched a movie, ate lots, gone for a walk, and have just enjoyed being with each other. We have a list of things that we want to accomplish in the little time that she's here, and we've only just begun. :0)
Jesse has also managed to sufficiently overwhelm her daughter. He even made her cry in the bathtub with his voracious splashing! She is now tolerating him, at least; she just keeps her distance! I'm not sure what she thinks of all of these males in this house! A delicate rose among thorns....
Okay. We've off to conquer! Good times!
Anyhoo....
I haven't done any blogging for the past few days because my dear friend Rachel - who left me and moved to Indiana - has flown in for a week long visit with her little baby! Soooo, since I only have her for a few days, we need to paint the town as red as we can with three wee ones who are all on completely different schedules! I'm soaking in every minute that I can with her and am not doing much more.
So far, we've just done a lot of visiting. We went to Lancaster for the day on Saturday and did a little antiquing, we've played outside and gone to the school to feed the ducks, (Yesterday, the duck that I like to hold chomped right down on my lip! I guess he didn't want any kisses!), we've hit a few stores, watched a movie, ate lots, gone for a walk, and have just enjoyed being with each other. We have a list of things that we want to accomplish in the little time that she's here, and we've only just begun. :0)
Jesse has also managed to sufficiently overwhelm her daughter. He even made her cry in the bathtub with his voracious splashing! She is now tolerating him, at least; she just keeps her distance! I'm not sure what she thinks of all of these males in this house! A delicate rose among thorns....
Okay. We've off to conquer! Good times!
Our Newest Addition
Kaden is pleased and proud to announce that a new member has joined our family. He has his very first "real" pet. Last night at Tyler State Park, we found a little baby salamander and Daddy told him that he could bring it home to keep for his very own. This was oh so very exciting! We brought some of the leaves, rocks, and dirt that he had been living under back home with us, Mommy sacrificed one of her tupperware for the cause, and now we have the cutest little guy living on our kitchen table for all the world to see! I fear that he may not live long, as Kaden always wants to hold him and dig for him under the leaves, but we shall see.
And his name? Well, it's a classic: Ant Ant.
I have no idea, but I told him it fit perfectly.
(And Trishy-Poo....if you could give me a little brush up on how to post images, I'd like to do a little pic for you all to gaze at....but alas - I have forgotten that skill).
And his name? Well, it's a classic: Ant Ant.
I have no idea, but I told him it fit perfectly.
(And Trishy-Poo....if you could give me a little brush up on how to post images, I'd like to do a little pic for you all to gaze at....but alas - I have forgotten that skill).
A Couple a' Funnies.....
A couple of weeks ago, a man in our church offered to snuggle with Jesse while we had worship practice. Upon handing Jesse back to me he grunted: "You can tell this kid's from Maine. He's as heavy as a moose!" We were so proud! :0)
Yesterday, Kaden asked if he could play one of his instruments while I was getting Jesse settled and ready for bed. I told him that he could play for as long as I was feeding Jesse, but then he had to stop because it would be too loud. Kaden's response:
"Okay. So as soon as he's done milking you, you want me to be done?"
Yeah. Something like that.
Yesterday, Kaden asked if he could play one of his instruments while I was getting Jesse settled and ready for bed. I told him that he could play for as long as I was feeding Jesse, but then he had to stop because it would be too loud. Kaden's response:
"Okay. So as soon as he's done milking you, you want me to be done?"
Yeah. Something like that.
Learning to Slow Down
Again. Will I ever get this down?
Warning: Long and rambly post ahead. Feel free to skim! But, if you REALLY love me, you'll read every word.....:0)
I feel like all I am constantly doing lately is assessing and reassessing life. Since Jesse has entered our world, it seems like we have just been living in one big whirlwind, and I have just been hanging on for dear life trying to savor the ride but trying to still stay one step ahead of the game, as well.
For some reason, (okay for several) this past year has probably been the absolute craziest of our entire marriage. Between grad school for Kev, me finishing up my Bachelor's Degree, Jesse's birth and fussiness the first half of his life, losing our support system with all of our friends leaving, multiple little side jobs for the both of us, and then Jesse getting burned...sometimes we have felt like we can hardly take the time to breathe.
SO - this past week I got done one of my babysitting jobs. Doesn't sound like much, and financially, it's probably not the wisest move, but for the sake of my sanity and for the sake of my boys so that I can be a better mommy, it's what we've decided to do. And it's been a good move.
Kev and I always go into Kaden's room right before we go to bed and we'll often lay down beside him and scratch his back, or just look at him and talk about him, or - Kev's personal favorite....he'll try to make Kaden laugh in his sleep by saying all kinds of super dumb things. Kaden is SUCH a deep sleeper, we can dress him and undress him, and he doesn't have a clue! So, it's fun to try to mess with his head while he's so far gone! Anyway, a couple of nights ago after leaving his room, I just got totally weepy! Here is this huge kid with these legs that practically reach the foot of the bed who is becoming so independent and big. I just had one of those moments where I was like: "Where has his babyhood gone? Kaden is a little BOY now!" And Jesse is almost ONE already! WHAT IS UP WITH THAT? HOW DID THIS HAPPEN?
And it just hit me so hard!
I got to thinking about this past year and how crazy life has been. I have tried so hard to savor him every step of the way; and I've tried to be intentional about having alone time with JUST him - talking to him, playing with him, and doing what HE loves. But I wonder if I could have done more. If I could have savored him just a tiny bit more. I know that I'm a good mom, and I know that my boys will NEVER question my love for them, but it's so easy to allow time to slip through your fingers. One day, you kind of wake up and realize that almost another whole year has passed. It's crazy!
I never in a MILLION years thought that I would be "one of those mothers" who would cry when their kids went to school on their first day. I pictured myself enjoying my newfound independence and throwing myself back into the things that I used to love but had let fall by the wayside during the childrearing years! There was a part of me that honestly wondered if I was even cut out for motherhood, and for many a year I had NO desire to join the ranks of millions of other diaper bag toting, snot and spit up covered, howling child holding mommies! Nothing about that even appealed to me! But - holy dyin - motherhood has done something to me. I love these kids so much, it is sometimes physically painful!
I love this quote that I found a couple of years ago. I have it in both of my boy's baby books:
"Making the decision to have a child - it's momentous! It is to decide FOREVER to have your heart go walking around outside your body." - Elizabeth Stone
Isn't that good? And OH SO true! So, anyway - after being all blubbery to Kev, I am - once again - stepping back, reassessing, and seeing where I can slow down and savor a little bit more in my life. It's not like I'm super crazy or anything, I just know when things start to feel a little crowded and I start to feel a little frazzled and I forget. It was really only one little moment with my sleeping little boy, but it was good for me. It was enough. So, there's the reason for me getting done babysitting. And today I let the laundry and the dishes fall by the wayside and we just played.
Warning: Long and rambly post ahead. Feel free to skim! But, if you REALLY love me, you'll read every word.....:0)
I feel like all I am constantly doing lately is assessing and reassessing life. Since Jesse has entered our world, it seems like we have just been living in one big whirlwind, and I have just been hanging on for dear life trying to savor the ride but trying to still stay one step ahead of the game, as well.
For some reason, (okay for several) this past year has probably been the absolute craziest of our entire marriage. Between grad school for Kev, me finishing up my Bachelor's Degree, Jesse's birth and fussiness the first half of his life, losing our support system with all of our friends leaving, multiple little side jobs for the both of us, and then Jesse getting burned...sometimes we have felt like we can hardly take the time to breathe.
SO - this past week I got done one of my babysitting jobs. Doesn't sound like much, and financially, it's probably not the wisest move, but for the sake of my sanity and for the sake of my boys so that I can be a better mommy, it's what we've decided to do. And it's been a good move.
Kev and I always go into Kaden's room right before we go to bed and we'll often lay down beside him and scratch his back, or just look at him and talk about him, or - Kev's personal favorite....he'll try to make Kaden laugh in his sleep by saying all kinds of super dumb things. Kaden is SUCH a deep sleeper, we can dress him and undress him, and he doesn't have a clue! So, it's fun to try to mess with his head while he's so far gone! Anyway, a couple of nights ago after leaving his room, I just got totally weepy! Here is this huge kid with these legs that practically reach the foot of the bed who is becoming so independent and big. I just had one of those moments where I was like: "Where has his babyhood gone? Kaden is a little BOY now!" And Jesse is almost ONE already! WHAT IS UP WITH THAT? HOW DID THIS HAPPEN?
And it just hit me so hard!
I got to thinking about this past year and how crazy life has been. I have tried so hard to savor him every step of the way; and I've tried to be intentional about having alone time with JUST him - talking to him, playing with him, and doing what HE loves. But I wonder if I could have done more. If I could have savored him just a tiny bit more. I know that I'm a good mom, and I know that my boys will NEVER question my love for them, but it's so easy to allow time to slip through your fingers. One day, you kind of wake up and realize that almost another whole year has passed. It's crazy!
I never in a MILLION years thought that I would be "one of those mothers" who would cry when their kids went to school on their first day. I pictured myself enjoying my newfound independence and throwing myself back into the things that I used to love but had let fall by the wayside during the childrearing years! There was a part of me that honestly wondered if I was even cut out for motherhood, and for many a year I had NO desire to join the ranks of millions of other diaper bag toting, snot and spit up covered, howling child holding mommies! Nothing about that even appealed to me! But - holy dyin - motherhood has done something to me. I love these kids so much, it is sometimes physically painful!
I love this quote that I found a couple of years ago. I have it in both of my boy's baby books:
"Making the decision to have a child - it's momentous! It is to decide FOREVER to have your heart go walking around outside your body." - Elizabeth Stone
Isn't that good? And OH SO true! So, anyway - after being all blubbery to Kev, I am - once again - stepping back, reassessing, and seeing where I can slow down and savor a little bit more in my life. It's not like I'm super crazy or anything, I just know when things start to feel a little crowded and I start to feel a little frazzled and I forget. It was really only one little moment with my sleeping little boy, but it was good for me. It was enough. So, there's the reason for me getting done babysitting. And today I let the laundry and the dishes fall by the wayside and we just played.
Saturdayz!
It's been a good day. A messy day, but really good, nonetheless.
It's been raining cats and dogs, but oh so warm! Next time I'm at Wal-mart I need to get Kaden some wellies so we can go puddle hopping! Because we played so much over spring break, Kev had to do some catching up today, so the wee ones and I entertained ourselves. Kev did work at home today, but I'm wondering how much he really got accomplished. We're a rowdy bunch.
Our morning began with Kaden making us a "bonfire" in a huge plastic tub. He poured tons of tiny toys into it for wood, and we sat around it with our graham cracker smores and coffee. Then, I tried out a new recipe for puffy paint. I don't quite have the proportions right, yet, as it lost it most of its puffiness after it dried. It was still fun, though, and once I perfect the recipe I'll pass it on. While we painted, Jesse happily chewed on some of Kev's song sheets at my feet and managed to eat a good chunk of it before I caught him. Good times!
When Jesse woke up from his morning nap, Kev took a break from schoolwork and we ran out and did some errands and got a snack. Both boys slept wretchedly this afternoon, but it's just as well. With the time change, and it being our longest day tomorrow, they'll both go down for the night at 6:00 and hopefully not be too affected by the lost hour.
Before supper, I gave them both a bath. Jesse managed to get a hold of Kev's coffee (it was cold, at least) and dumped it all over himself and the floor! So - to the tub we went. Jesse is quite the voracious bath taker and he literally soaked our bathroom floor with his splashing! During his entire bath, his eyes were red rimmed from always getting water in them, and he was constantly burping from all of his water intake! I got soaked from head to foot, and Kaden just shook his head and backed into the farthest corner of the tub to watch the show!
Now they are both p.j.'d up and smelling delish. The evening is winding down, the apartment is still trashed, and we are happy. It's been a good day. Well, I must be off. Jesse is about ready to ram a hanger down his throat......Lord have mercy!
It's been raining cats and dogs, but oh so warm! Next time I'm at Wal-mart I need to get Kaden some wellies so we can go puddle hopping! Because we played so much over spring break, Kev had to do some catching up today, so the wee ones and I entertained ourselves. Kev did work at home today, but I'm wondering how much he really got accomplished. We're a rowdy bunch.
Our morning began with Kaden making us a "bonfire" in a huge plastic tub. He poured tons of tiny toys into it for wood, and we sat around it with our graham cracker smores and coffee. Then, I tried out a new recipe for puffy paint. I don't quite have the proportions right, yet, as it lost it most of its puffiness after it dried. It was still fun, though, and once I perfect the recipe I'll pass it on. While we painted, Jesse happily chewed on some of Kev's song sheets at my feet and managed to eat a good chunk of it before I caught him. Good times!
When Jesse woke up from his morning nap, Kev took a break from schoolwork and we ran out and did some errands and got a snack. Both boys slept wretchedly this afternoon, but it's just as well. With the time change, and it being our longest day tomorrow, they'll both go down for the night at 6:00 and hopefully not be too affected by the lost hour.
Before supper, I gave them both a bath. Jesse managed to get a hold of Kev's coffee (it was cold, at least) and dumped it all over himself and the floor! So - to the tub we went. Jesse is quite the voracious bath taker and he literally soaked our bathroom floor with his splashing! During his entire bath, his eyes were red rimmed from always getting water in them, and he was constantly burping from all of his water intake! I got soaked from head to foot, and Kaden just shook his head and backed into the farthest corner of the tub to watch the show!
Now they are both p.j.'d up and smelling delish. The evening is winding down, the apartment is still trashed, and we are happy. It's been a good day. Well, I must be off. Jesse is about ready to ram a hanger down his throat......Lord have mercy!
Sigh!
Well, we are back home again. I do love my little haven here, but I had an instant feeling of claustrophobia as soon as we pulled into our yard. It was good for my soul to be out in the wide open spaces for awhile. I need it; it's in my blood. I even loved the perpetual smell of barns and horse manure in the air! Kaden, on the other hand, would loudly say "Ewww! Stinky poop!" whenever he got a whiff!
The boy's Great Grammy gave them each a little cash for Christmas, so yesterday afternoon, we took them on a train ride in Strasburg all through the Amish country. Jesse was free, so he generously bought my ticket for me! What a sweet chap! :0) We rode on the oldest working train in the state and got a fabulous history lesson as we chugged our way through the countryside. It was SO awesome!
After that, we just putzed around here and there, went for a scenic drive, and then we all went swimming in the evening. Today we just enjoyed our room until it was time to leave. While Jesse got his morning nap in, Kaden, Kev, and I did a puzzle and played Go Fish - in which Kev cheated, let me add - and then we hit the road for home. On our way home, we went to Kitchen Kettle Village and got tons of yummy samples from one of their stores, stopped at a market that sells bulk food supplies, stopped at a farm and bought some homemade root beer, and stopped at another house and bought a homemade chicken pot pie for supper. We're pretty much all about the food! We also played on a little playground and sat in some grass and watched some little goats play for awhile, too! Random - but glorious!
So, now we're home. I don't know about you, but when I come back from being gone for a few days, I can't just simply unpack. I have to dust and vacuum, rearrange a little, and do a little organizing too in order to feel settled back in! Slightly anal, me thinks, but it's just how I am. So, now that is done, all of my boys are abed, and I must hit the hay, as well. A mountain of laundry and an empty fridge await me in the morning!
The boy's Great Grammy gave them each a little cash for Christmas, so yesterday afternoon, we took them on a train ride in Strasburg all through the Amish country. Jesse was free, so he generously bought my ticket for me! What a sweet chap! :0) We rode on the oldest working train in the state and got a fabulous history lesson as we chugged our way through the countryside. It was SO awesome!
After that, we just putzed around here and there, went for a scenic drive, and then we all went swimming in the evening. Today we just enjoyed our room until it was time to leave. While Jesse got his morning nap in, Kaden, Kev, and I did a puzzle and played Go Fish - in which Kev cheated, let me add - and then we hit the road for home. On our way home, we went to Kitchen Kettle Village and got tons of yummy samples from one of their stores, stopped at a market that sells bulk food supplies, stopped at a farm and bought some homemade root beer, and stopped at another house and bought a homemade chicken pot pie for supper. We're pretty much all about the food! We also played on a little playground and sat in some grass and watched some little goats play for awhile, too! Random - but glorious!
So, now we're home. I don't know about you, but when I come back from being gone for a few days, I can't just simply unpack. I have to dust and vacuum, rearrange a little, and do a little organizing too in order to feel settled back in! Slightly anal, me thinks, but it's just how I am. So, now that is done, all of my boys are abed, and I must hit the hay, as well. A mountain of laundry and an empty fridge await me in the morning!
Vacay - Day 3
Sheer bliss, I tell you.
The weather has been glorious - springlike really, the scenery soothes my soul, the food bloateth my belly, and this girl is ready to re-enter society refreshed and rejuvenated.
As I type, Jesse is napping in the next room and Kevin and Kaden are outside exploring and throwing a ball around. We used to not have the kids nap when we went away on vacay. We just threw their entire routine to the wind, but we have learned that our entire family does better if at least some semblance of our normal rhythms and routines are maintained. Besides, Kaden loves napping in hotels. He finds it quite exciting. Jesse still crabs just as much when we lay him down, but he naps nonetheless.
So, let me give you the breakdown of what we've been doing. Yesterday, besides a boatload of eating, we went to a few little outlet stores, drove around and explored, swam, and went for a little walk around our place. A highlight for me was checking out a couple of very awesome little antiquey stores - where I purchased FOUR (count them!) really cute little iron and wooden chairs to sit out on our porch for $5!! (Five buckaroos, Baby!) I only wanted two, but they all came together! Kev says that's really great since they're all decrepit anyway, we'll have spares for when they break. He doesn't appreciate a great bargain when he sees one!
Did I mention that we have a whirlpool hottub in our room? Seriously - for no extra charge, you can get a hottub in your room. Who wouldn't? So, while the boys napped yesterday, I did a little scrapbooking and Kev did a little hottubbing. Sheer bliss, I tell you! I put Jesse in it this morning. He loved splashing and grabbing at the water. I was sorely tempted to dunk him under and see if he could swim, but I figured I've given Kev enough stress lately, as far as this child is concerned!
Our little place overlooks a humungous field, and across the field there is a little one room Amish schoolhouse. I've been watching the kids play outside. I am so drawn to this whole lifestyle! Aside from having to wear a dress everyday and wear one of those funky little bonnets, I love much of what these people stand for and how they live. It really appeals to me. A lot of hard work, simplicity, and family. I love it.
Okay, Jesse will be waking up soon, and I must get really to go and conquer the rest of this country before we head back to ghetto-land tomorrow - you know - Filthydelphia, the city of brotherly Shove! Just Kidding!......kinda'
The weather has been glorious - springlike really, the scenery soothes my soul, the food bloateth my belly, and this girl is ready to re-enter society refreshed and rejuvenated.
As I type, Jesse is napping in the next room and Kevin and Kaden are outside exploring and throwing a ball around. We used to not have the kids nap when we went away on vacay. We just threw their entire routine to the wind, but we have learned that our entire family does better if at least some semblance of our normal rhythms and routines are maintained. Besides, Kaden loves napping in hotels. He finds it quite exciting. Jesse still crabs just as much when we lay him down, but he naps nonetheless.
So, let me give you the breakdown of what we've been doing. Yesterday, besides a boatload of eating, we went to a few little outlet stores, drove around and explored, swam, and went for a little walk around our place. A highlight for me was checking out a couple of very awesome little antiquey stores - where I purchased FOUR (count them!) really cute little iron and wooden chairs to sit out on our porch for $5!! (Five buckaroos, Baby!) I only wanted two, but they all came together! Kev says that's really great since they're all decrepit anyway, we'll have spares for when they break. He doesn't appreciate a great bargain when he sees one!
Did I mention that we have a whirlpool hottub in our room? Seriously - for no extra charge, you can get a hottub in your room. Who wouldn't? So, while the boys napped yesterday, I did a little scrapbooking and Kev did a little hottubbing. Sheer bliss, I tell you! I put Jesse in it this morning. He loved splashing and grabbing at the water. I was sorely tempted to dunk him under and see if he could swim, but I figured I've given Kev enough stress lately, as far as this child is concerned!
Our little place overlooks a humungous field, and across the field there is a little one room Amish schoolhouse. I've been watching the kids play outside. I am so drawn to this whole lifestyle! Aside from having to wear a dress everyday and wear one of those funky little bonnets, I love much of what these people stand for and how they live. It really appeals to me. A lot of hard work, simplicity, and family. I love it.
Okay, Jesse will be waking up soon, and I must get really to go and conquer the rest of this country before we head back to ghetto-land tomorrow - you know - Filthydelphia, the city of brotherly Shove! Just Kidding!......kinda'
We Be Amish....
Don't ask. I don't know either. That was just Kev's contribution to this post....He's looney.
Well, Kev and I are sitting on our duffers at our fantabulous little getaway spot in Lancaster, PA. Aside from me getting us lost on our trip out - (we ended up at the Delaware border before we realized... not sure how that happened) - it's been wonderful! I've officially decided that I wouldn't be good at Amazing Race, though.
We have a wonderful little spot that overlooks wide open spaces of fields and fields, Kaden has a pool so he's stoked, and we are just soaking it in. No big agenda; just lots of family time together. Okay, it's late so I'm signing off. Even though it's vacation, our two little alarm clocks don't know the difference!
Well, Kev and I are sitting on our duffers at our fantabulous little getaway spot in Lancaster, PA. Aside from me getting us lost on our trip out - (we ended up at the Delaware border before we realized... not sure how that happened) - it's been wonderful! I've officially decided that I wouldn't be good at Amazing Race, though.
We have a wonderful little spot that overlooks wide open spaces of fields and fields, Kaden has a pool so he's stoked, and we are just soaking it in. No big agenda; just lots of family time together. Okay, it's late so I'm signing off. Even though it's vacation, our two little alarm clocks don't know the difference!
You Like?
Okay. My computer illiterate-ness still ranks high, but thanks to my friend Trish (whooo-hoooo! Did you see that? That's called a "hyper-link" thank you very much!!! Yee-haw!), it's not as high as it once was. Oh my! I'm quite excited about all that I have learned. Granted, I've forgotten a ton already, but she taught me some pretty cool stuff. My blog is still a work in progress - I haven't got it exactly how I want it yet - but it's coming. Anyway, many thanks to you, sweet friend! With four kids running around, we still managed to have a very nice brunch, a good visit, and a lovely little teaching session. Well, except for the paint incident in the kitchen where it looked like a murder took place....... All in all, the kids entertained themselves quite well!
So....it's been awhile since I've posted. Life has been TOO busy this past week. But, it's almost over and all is well. Allow me to give you all a brief (well, brief for me) update on the good things that took place. Today is the first day that Jesse is completely bandage free! We've been trying some homeopathic stuff on his hands, but today we just decided to let him be free. And we are ALL quite happy about this, let me tell ya. I can't tell you how much I love seeing those little chubby fingers again.
Spring break begins on Monday, and for one final last hurrah before graduation, our whole little family is going to go away for a few nights. We are all super excited and ready for a little change of pace. Life has been a wee bit crazy these past couple of weeks. Too crazy, if you ask me. So, we're all ready to just kick it for awhile and hang out as a family with no outside pressures vying for our time and attention.
Kev and I went on a date this past Tuesday, which was SO nice. It was good to catch up, reconnect, visit with no interruptions, fill our faces with yummy food, and dream about our future together. Well, maybe it looked more like "stress about our future," but it was good! I love that we never run out of things to say to each other....and when we do, it's a nice comfortable silence. And I also love being foolish and silly with him. We went to see a movie after dinner, and there were only four other people in the whole theatre. So, we were able to laugh, talk, and snort to our hearts content without getting into trouble! Good times.
Today is Kev's final Saturday class! We're both quite happy about this. A friend came for lunch, so that kept us occupied, and then I gave her a tour of the campus before the boys' naps. Kaden loves to feed the ducks, so we went and sat down by the pond for awhile. They're quite tame - a little freakishly so, and they were trying to eat out of our hands when there wasn't even any food in them! While I was putting Jesse in the backpack, one came over and nipped at his finger! Another one let me pick him up today. I was so happy that he let me snuggle him! I'm sure we made quite the sight - Kaden riding his tricycle all through the duck poop, and me just walking all over the lawn with Jesse on my back and a little ducky in my arms. Sheer bliss!
Okay, well that was a wee update. A little random and nothing overly exciting, but a little window into our lives nonetheless.....
So....it's been awhile since I've posted. Life has been TOO busy this past week. But, it's almost over and all is well. Allow me to give you all a brief (well, brief for me) update on the good things that took place. Today is the first day that Jesse is completely bandage free! We've been trying some homeopathic stuff on his hands, but today we just decided to let him be free. And we are ALL quite happy about this, let me tell ya. I can't tell you how much I love seeing those little chubby fingers again.
Spring break begins on Monday, and for one final last hurrah before graduation, our whole little family is going to go away for a few nights. We are all super excited and ready for a little change of pace. Life has been a wee bit crazy these past couple of weeks. Too crazy, if you ask me. So, we're all ready to just kick it for awhile and hang out as a family with no outside pressures vying for our time and attention.
Kev and I went on a date this past Tuesday, which was SO nice. It was good to catch up, reconnect, visit with no interruptions, fill our faces with yummy food, and dream about our future together. Well, maybe it looked more like "stress about our future," but it was good! I love that we never run out of things to say to each other....and when we do, it's a nice comfortable silence. And I also love being foolish and silly with him. We went to see a movie after dinner, and there were only four other people in the whole theatre. So, we were able to laugh, talk, and snort to our hearts content without getting into trouble! Good times.
Today is Kev's final Saturday class! We're both quite happy about this. A friend came for lunch, so that kept us occupied, and then I gave her a tour of the campus before the boys' naps. Kaden loves to feed the ducks, so we went and sat down by the pond for awhile. They're quite tame - a little freakishly so, and they were trying to eat out of our hands when there wasn't even any food in them! While I was putting Jesse in the backpack, one came over and nipped at his finger! Another one let me pick him up today. I was so happy that he let me snuggle him! I'm sure we made quite the sight - Kaden riding his tricycle all through the duck poop, and me just walking all over the lawn with Jesse on my back and a little ducky in my arms. Sheer bliss!
Okay, well that was a wee update. A little random and nothing overly exciting, but a little window into our lives nonetheless.....
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