Showing posts with label random. Show all posts
Showing posts with label random. Show all posts
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
Random bits about the kiddos...
The other day we were driving to school and "South America" came up again. It's an on going topic, mind you. {But I will refresh you that South America in our house is "Captain America" to Andrew}. Here is the conversation we had:
Benjamin: Mom, which direction are we driving right now?
Me: {thankful for my informative rearview mirror} West!
Andrew: South America is west of us.
Me: Actually, Andrew, South America is SOUTH of us.
Andrew: No. It's up. And South America is a man.
Me: Oh right, of course.
And today Andrew and I had this conversation --
Andrew: Hey mom! Guess what Mayer's name is?!?!
Me: Um, Mayer?
A: YES! You got it! Yay!
Me: Yay!
Andrew: Mom. Guess what Elise's name is.
Me: your sister, Elise?
Andrew: yes! Guess what her name is!
Me: Elise!
A: Yes! Now mom, guess my name!!!!!
Me: Andrew?
A: Yes! My name is Andrew! A-n-d-e-w! {he always forgets that pesky "r"}
Yesterday we were driving around, listening to a Christmas CD. "Little Drummer Boy" came on and at the end of the song there were beautiful {girl} voices singing over and over: "Me and my drum...me and my drum". Andrew was in the back yelling, "No! My drum! It's my drum, girls! No, my drum!!!" I was seriously laughing so hard.
I'm so grateful for that boy. Truly, three may be a hard age, but he is the sweetest thing. Not a single day goes by that he doesn't throw his arms around me and yell -- "I love you, mom!" He tells me often that he likes me and wants to marry me. He has so much love and affection to give -- it's wonderful.
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Elise loves socks. While I am folding clothes she will always find the boys socks and lift her foot to me. Yesterday, she had two socks on each foot and took a nap that way! I'm always laughing at her little ways of life. Elise is also very opinionated and you will usually be able to find us in any store by the sound of her screams and squeals. Oh my goodness, it's so humbling.
Because it's just Elise and I on Tuesdays and Thursdays, she's becoming quite a fun companion! We have lunch with friends and run errands. She makes friends and blows kisses to all the people we see. It's really fun and so sweet to have that time with her. Granted, she's a great sleeper and needs her naps -- so we are always home for nap time. But I need that time management and schedule. It's good time for me to work on chores around the house or read or wrap presents!
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Since Benjamin is in school from 8am-3pm each weekday, I get so little one on one time with him. Now that things in our lives have calmed down just a bit -- I plan on reintroducing dates with the boys. I know they love it, and so do I.
Benjamin is getting really good at reading and writing. It's so fun to hear him read to us and even more fun to try to figure out what he writes. Most of the time, he gets things on his own -- but you have to sound out his words very phonetically and be prepared to work around eliminated vowels. This past semester he has grown leaps and bounds. He's so much more confident and truly learning great things! Listening to him recite scripture or passages from Dante or the states or counties of Oklahoma is so humbling!
He also has a five year itch going on. He can be so sassy and is fighting for great independence. He wants to be in control and have the last word. He wants to be right in all ways and make all the decisions. But at the flip of a switch, he exudes kindness, obedience and manners. Hopefully that means the last five years of encouraging, correcting, discipline and guidance has made a difference. I wonder when you start to reap the fruits of that kind of labor...
More randomness later...I need to fold laundry and get ready to pick the boys up from school!
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
A post of people I love....
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| In 2002, I spent 10 weeks in Santa Cruz, CA for the summer. It was challenging and incredible and my roommates were the best. We got together recently for the first time since summer project -- plus most of our kiddies! |
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| Pizza my heart. |
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| Just typical dinner time attire when daddy is out of town... |
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| McBride's + Reid's // seven children |
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| Everyone looking... |
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| crying tears of laughter while looking at this picture. |
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| that time I kicked my baby in the head while trying to beat the camera self-timer... |
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| Being with these people is good. And it's like family. And it's fun and full and always chaos -- in the best way. |
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| Elise's first plane ride |
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| Our sweet nephew Cole -- or "baby Cole" as the boys call him. |
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| Isn't he adorable!?!!? |
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| In Chicago, at the aquarium. |
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| Group picture |
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| Silly group picture |
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| Chicago date night! Thanks, Kate! |
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| Just the man of my dreams, the love of my life...I'm a lucky girl! |
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
Having babies...
I'm sure you know this, but having babies is one of my favorite things that I've been able to do in life. They don't get in very easy, but they come out beautifully! Patrick and I are very confident, and in unity, that we won't do fertility treatments again -- ever. The toll it took on our family last time was hard. Add to this being older and my body having a harder time with pregnancy -- it's a good and wise decision, we believe.
But this doesn't change the fact that I've had three fantastic deliveries. And it doesn't make my love of labor and delivery go away!
Last night, a co-worker of Patrick's {and his wife} came over for dinner. They are just a month away from their due date with their first child. It was so fun talking with them about babies! We don't have a lot of wisdom and insight, but we have some experience! They asked so many questions and were so interested in whatever we were sharing. It was fun to have a very honest and encouraging conversation about having babies.
We talked about end of pregnancy and labor. We talked about delivery and knowledge and confidence. We talked about enjoying the hospital stay the first time around. We talked about how hard the first few weeks are. We laughed at parenthood and life changes. And we encouraged them to have low expectations and a positive perspective. I sincerely hope they left confident and encouraged about having a baby!
After they left, I was just so excited for them {as I am with most people that get to have babies!} and can't wait to hear how their experience goes. No matter how the baby comes into this world, I know they are prepared and ready -- and have a good bit of healthy-what did we get ourselves into- fear!
This made my heart long to help other women and walk this road with them. Not because I have any thing to offer, but simply because I LOVE this process and would love to help other women feel confident about having babies! Someday I really think that being a doula would bring such joy to my heart. If I can't birth babies anymore, I might as well be there when someone else does! :)
I don't know if there was a point to this post, other than to process how much I loved having these sweet folks over and talking about having babies. There have GOT to be other people in the world who could talk about labor and delivery for hours with me!!! :)
But this doesn't change the fact that I've had three fantastic deliveries. And it doesn't make my love of labor and delivery go away!
Last night, a co-worker of Patrick's {and his wife} came over for dinner. They are just a month away from their due date with their first child. It was so fun talking with them about babies! We don't have a lot of wisdom and insight, but we have some experience! They asked so many questions and were so interested in whatever we were sharing. It was fun to have a very honest and encouraging conversation about having babies.
We talked about end of pregnancy and labor. We talked about delivery and knowledge and confidence. We talked about enjoying the hospital stay the first time around. We talked about how hard the first few weeks are. We laughed at parenthood and life changes. And we encouraged them to have low expectations and a positive perspective. I sincerely hope they left confident and encouraged about having a baby!
After they left, I was just so excited for them {as I am with most people that get to have babies!} and can't wait to hear how their experience goes. No matter how the baby comes into this world, I know they are prepared and ready -- and have a good bit of healthy-what did we get ourselves into- fear!
This made my heart long to help other women and walk this road with them. Not because I have any thing to offer, but simply because I LOVE this process and would love to help other women feel confident about having babies! Someday I really think that being a doula would bring such joy to my heart. If I can't birth babies anymore, I might as well be there when someone else does! :)
I don't know if there was a point to this post, other than to process how much I loved having these sweet folks over and talking about having babies. There have GOT to be other people in the world who could talk about labor and delivery for hours with me!!! :)
Thursday, November 21, 2013
Just lately...
A few random things:
*The other night Benjamin was helping me cook dinner. He was in charge of sautéing the vegetables. I was cutting up fruit and he said, "Hey mom! I bet these vegetables don't like being in here getting cooked. It's really hot in there!" I laughed and smiled because, well, he is right. I told him that we should cook together every night because he adds so much fun to the process :)
*Andrew's favorite joke right now is this:
Knock, knock.
Who's there?
Uncle Kent.
Uncle Kent who?
NO! Silly a cow goes moooooo!
*I eat roasted sweet potatoes nearly every day. Somedays if I don't have enough for a salad, I will eat them for breakfast.
*On Monday, I turned 32. That sounds kind of old, but in my mind I will always be 28. At 28 I had one baby and had grown up a little and ran my first half marathon and had moved a few times and had been married 5 years. It was a good year. I couldn't pick an age before 28 because I didn't have kids and I am such a different person with children than without. Either way, I feel 28.
*On Wednesday we celebrated 9 years of marriage. NINE years. It seems like a big number, but it feels like just a few years. I barely remember my life without Patrick. He makes me better and deals so kindly with me. There is a song by Jack Johnson called "Better Together" -- and that sums it up pretty well...
*The other night Benjamin was helping me cook dinner. He was in charge of sautéing the vegetables. I was cutting up fruit and he said, "Hey mom! I bet these vegetables don't like being in here getting cooked. It's really hot in there!" I laughed and smiled because, well, he is right. I told him that we should cook together every night because he adds so much fun to the process :)
*Andrew's favorite joke right now is this:
Knock, knock.
Who's there?
Uncle Kent.
Uncle Kent who?
NO! Silly a cow goes moooooo!
*I eat roasted sweet potatoes nearly every day. Somedays if I don't have enough for a salad, I will eat them for breakfast.
*On Monday, I turned 32. That sounds kind of old, but in my mind I will always be 28. At 28 I had one baby and had grown up a little and ran my first half marathon and had moved a few times and had been married 5 years. It was a good year. I couldn't pick an age before 28 because I didn't have kids and I am such a different person with children than without. Either way, I feel 28.
*On Wednesday we celebrated 9 years of marriage. NINE years. It seems like a big number, but it feels like just a few years. I barely remember my life without Patrick. He makes me better and deals so kindly with me. There is a song by Jack Johnson called "Better Together" -- and that sums it up pretty well...
"There is no combination of words I could put on the back of a postcard
No song that I could sing, but I can try for your heart
Our dreams, and they are made out of real things
Like a, shoebox of photographs with sepia-toned loving
Love is the answer, At least for most of the questions in my heart
Like why are we here? And where do we go? And how come it's so hard?
It's not always easy and Sometimes life can be deceiving
I'll tell you one thing, it's always better when we're together
Mmm, it's always better when we're together
Yeah, we'll look at the stars when we're together
Well, it's always better when we're together
Yeah, it's always better when we're together
And all of these moments Just might find their way into my dreams tonight
But I know that they'll be gone When the morning light sings
And brings new things
For tomorrow night you see That they'll be gone too
Too many things I have to do
But if all of these dreams might find their way Into my day to day scene
I'd be under the impression I was somewhere in between
With only two, Just me and you
Not so many things we got to do
Or places we got to be
We'll sit beneath the mango tree now
Yeah, it's always better when we're together
Mmm, we're somewhere in between together
Well, it's always better when we're together
Yeah, it's always better when we're together
Mmm, mmm, mmm
I believe in memories
They look so, so pretty when I sleep
Hey now, and when I wake up,
You look so pretty sleeping next to me
But there is not enough time,
And there is no, no song I could sing
And there is no combination of words I could say
But I will still tell you one thing
We're better together."
No song that I could sing, but I can try for your heart
Our dreams, and they are made out of real things
Like a, shoebox of photographs with sepia-toned loving
Love is the answer, At least for most of the questions in my heart
Like why are we here? And where do we go? And how come it's so hard?
It's not always easy and Sometimes life can be deceiving
I'll tell you one thing, it's always better when we're together
Mmm, it's always better when we're together
Yeah, we'll look at the stars when we're together
Well, it's always better when we're together
Yeah, it's always better when we're together
And all of these moments Just might find their way into my dreams tonight
But I know that they'll be gone When the morning light sings
And brings new things
For tomorrow night you see That they'll be gone too
Too many things I have to do
But if all of these dreams might find their way Into my day to day scene
I'd be under the impression I was somewhere in between
With only two, Just me and you
Not so many things we got to do
Or places we got to be
We'll sit beneath the mango tree now
Yeah, it's always better when we're together
Mmm, we're somewhere in between together
Well, it's always better when we're together
Yeah, it's always better when we're together
Mmm, mmm, mmm
I believe in memories
They look so, so pretty when I sleep
Hey now, and when I wake up,
You look so pretty sleeping next to me
But there is not enough time,
And there is no, no song I could sing
And there is no combination of words I could say
But I will still tell you one thing
We're better together."
*Elise is such a calm and sleepy baby. In fact, I question if this is normal since Benjamin and Andrew were so different. Patrick and I were just talking last night about how different they are! Even the boys had some similarities as infants, but Elise is just so different. She fusses when she's hungry or bored or wants to be held. She is so snuggly. She doesn't like a pacifier. She smiles so much. She lets you know when she wants something. And at seven weeks, she is WAY too long for newborn clothes. And she barely fits into 0-3 month clothes. This girl has legs (and feet) that go on and on!
*I'm so glad we chose the name Elise. Claire was another choice for us and I do love it, but we know so many little Claire's and now that I see her little face -- she is a sweet Elise (or Ellie, depending who you are).
*I love washi tape.
*I started working out again. Slowly. But I've missed it so much and I can't wait to feel full force so I can train for my next half marathon!
Okay, I need to shower and care for small children. But not without some pictures of said small {and cutest ever} children....And each picture pretty much sums up their personalities. So different, each so wonderful! God has been beyond kind to us!!!
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Waiting is mental.
Last night, I laid in bed thinking about waiting.
Waiting for a baby, mostly, but how waiting is generally really difficult. We are impatient people forced to wait for things all the time. By the grace of God. Can you imagine how entitled and rotten we would be if we always got our way?!
Waiting seems more like a vicious form of torture when you're pregnant. I know, though, that it's simply best for my baby girl and beautiful sanctification for me. But at 39 weeks, my irrational side is quite difficult to battle and I end up in tears because for whatever reason I lost another round. The good news is I may lose rounds, but I'm still winning the war. God is on my side and caring diligently for me even when I feel most defeated.
Maybe that sounds dramatic. Good. Then you can see how crazy I am. :)
The third time of pregnancy has proven to be much more difficult than the other two with waiting for labor to begin. Even with Benjamin coming at 41 weeks -- it was hard and I was more than ready, but I wasn't crazy. Perhaps the most challenging hurdle to jump was/is being pregnant longer than I was with Andrew. That sweet boy came at 37 + 5 and I was ready and glad and relieved. But I did not realize how hard crossing 37 weeks and 5 days would be this time.
Of all the things that have been hard this time {caring for two boys, cleaning my house, life} the hardest thing for me has been having off and on again contractions. For FOUR nights in a row, I thought I was in labor because I would have good consistent contractions. I was dilated 3cm and 80% effaced at my last appointment. My cervix is soft and stretchy and, apparently, I have a favorable cervix! But each time I get excited and count and pray and whatnot -- they just go away and I end up a little discouraged.
I'm ready for labor. It's my favorite part! My body does labor and delivery well and that has proven to be a great gift from God. He has given me incredible confidence and knowledge and grace and humility in labor and delivery. He created my body for this and I love that. But still it starts. Then stops. And I wake up a little more weary.
Not to mention there is an array of {well-meaning} comments from all people -- people I know and people I don't -- saying things like this:
*I bet you'll have her on *this* day.
*She's coming tonight! I just know it!
*I bet you'll have her this weekend.
*Oh! You're still pregnant!
*This is my {insert favorite day of the year/birthday/anniversary} and you should have her then.
*This day isn't good for me, so try not to have her that day.
I love that people want to be apart of this and sometimes it's a good distraction. But mostly, I just feel defeated. I know that whatever day this girl comes is NOT up to me and I can't get her out without the hand of God cueing her arrival. Yes, there are thousands of things I can do speed up the process, but one thing is certain -- she'll come when she wants. That's the thing about babies. They come out with a mind of their own :)
So I wait. I pray for joy and strength. I pray that God would be glorified.
And I try not to be too crazy.
Waiting for a baby, mostly, but how waiting is generally really difficult. We are impatient people forced to wait for things all the time. By the grace of God. Can you imagine how entitled and rotten we would be if we always got our way?!
Waiting seems more like a vicious form of torture when you're pregnant. I know, though, that it's simply best for my baby girl and beautiful sanctification for me. But at 39 weeks, my irrational side is quite difficult to battle and I end up in tears because for whatever reason I lost another round. The good news is I may lose rounds, but I'm still winning the war. God is on my side and caring diligently for me even when I feel most defeated.
Maybe that sounds dramatic. Good. Then you can see how crazy I am. :)
The third time of pregnancy has proven to be much more difficult than the other two with waiting for labor to begin. Even with Benjamin coming at 41 weeks -- it was hard and I was more than ready, but I wasn't crazy. Perhaps the most challenging hurdle to jump was/is being pregnant longer than I was with Andrew. That sweet boy came at 37 + 5 and I was ready and glad and relieved. But I did not realize how hard crossing 37 weeks and 5 days would be this time.
Of all the things that have been hard this time {caring for two boys, cleaning my house, life} the hardest thing for me has been having off and on again contractions. For FOUR nights in a row, I thought I was in labor because I would have good consistent contractions. I was dilated 3cm and 80% effaced at my last appointment. My cervix is soft and stretchy and, apparently, I have a favorable cervix! But each time I get excited and count and pray and whatnot -- they just go away and I end up a little discouraged.
I'm ready for labor. It's my favorite part! My body does labor and delivery well and that has proven to be a great gift from God. He has given me incredible confidence and knowledge and grace and humility in labor and delivery. He created my body for this and I love that. But still it starts. Then stops. And I wake up a little more weary.
Not to mention there is an array of {well-meaning} comments from all people -- people I know and people I don't -- saying things like this:
*I bet you'll have her on *this* day.
*She's coming tonight! I just know it!
*I bet you'll have her this weekend.
*Oh! You're still pregnant!
*This is my {insert favorite day of the year/birthday/anniversary} and you should have her then.
*This day isn't good for me, so try not to have her that day.
I love that people want to be apart of this and sometimes it's a good distraction. But mostly, I just feel defeated. I know that whatever day this girl comes is NOT up to me and I can't get her out without the hand of God cueing her arrival. Yes, there are thousands of things I can do speed up the process, but one thing is certain -- she'll come when she wants. That's the thing about babies. They come out with a mind of their own :)
So I wait. I pray for joy and strength. I pray that God would be glorified.
And I try not to be too crazy.
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Recently...
There isn't too much going on around here. But just for the sake of posting and keeping up to date, here are some random things about our days recently...
*I realized the other day that if this baby girl comes a week early -- we only have THREE months until we are a family of five! I should do something with the nursery and get enough baby girl clothes, then.
*Another baby note: When I was pregnant with Andrew, I had to work through a lot of "what did we do to Benjamin?!" issues and God was so sweet to me. I became so encouraged and confident in bringing another child into our family! This time I'm so excited and so ready to add another baby to our clan. We tried for so long and waited through many tears for this girl, I can't imagine not being pregnant or adding another kiddo!
*The thought of Benjamin being in school from 7:45am until noon every day of the week makes me want to vomit. I love having that guy around and I can't believe we are at a point in his life where I won't be with him most or be his biggest influence. This calls for an entire post.
*Andrew has entered a very independent stage. "Terrible two's" maybe. I'm glad we have gone through this before, even if just to know it ends! :)
*We moved Andrew into Benjamin's room. I did it one night just to see if it would work and how long we may be fighting battles. And that never happened. Those boys love sharing a room!!! Andrew loves being in a big boy bed and sleeps great {unless his big brother wakes him up in the middle of the night or at 5am!}. Benjamin loves that there is someone in his room and that he's not alone. Win!
*The exhaustion I feel on a daily basis is mind blowing. It's so discouraging to me sometimes to try to do things that were so easy before this pregnancy. The third time around is good, but so tiring. Just keeping up with the boys and errands and the house seem like a huge deal sometimes.
*I tweaked a workout routine I found on the internet the other day and I loved it. Full of legs and arms, plus getting my heart rate up. It was so good for my soul, and probably my body. {Add this to reasons I'm really tired ;)}
*We have been in clean.organize.purge mode around here. It's so wonderful! The stuff we are giving away and throwing away is incredible! But I dislike clutter and it's easy to come by with two boys {one who draws 18 pictures a day} and just living life.
*I really want new light fixtures in our house, but I don't know how to justify buying them. What's wrong with a little more of a contemporary lighting in this old house, huh!?!? :)
Cheers!
*I realized the other day that if this baby girl comes a week early -- we only have THREE months until we are a family of five! I should do something with the nursery and get enough baby girl clothes, then.
*Another baby note: When I was pregnant with Andrew, I had to work through a lot of "what did we do to Benjamin?!" issues and God was so sweet to me. I became so encouraged and confident in bringing another child into our family! This time I'm so excited and so ready to add another baby to our clan. We tried for so long and waited through many tears for this girl, I can't imagine not being pregnant or adding another kiddo!
*The thought of Benjamin being in school from 7:45am until noon every day of the week makes me want to vomit. I love having that guy around and I can't believe we are at a point in his life where I won't be with him most or be his biggest influence. This calls for an entire post.
*Andrew has entered a very independent stage. "Terrible two's" maybe. I'm glad we have gone through this before, even if just to know it ends! :)
*We moved Andrew into Benjamin's room. I did it one night just to see if it would work and how long we may be fighting battles. And that never happened. Those boys love sharing a room!!! Andrew loves being in a big boy bed and sleeps great {unless his big brother wakes him up in the middle of the night or at 5am!}. Benjamin loves that there is someone in his room and that he's not alone. Win!
*The exhaustion I feel on a daily basis is mind blowing. It's so discouraging to me sometimes to try to do things that were so easy before this pregnancy. The third time around is good, but so tiring. Just keeping up with the boys and errands and the house seem like a huge deal sometimes.
*I tweaked a workout routine I found on the internet the other day and I loved it. Full of legs and arms, plus getting my heart rate up. It was so good for my soul, and probably my body. {Add this to reasons I'm really tired ;)}
*We have been in clean.organize.purge mode around here. It's so wonderful! The stuff we are giving away and throwing away is incredible! But I dislike clutter and it's easy to come by with two boys {one who draws 18 pictures a day} and just living life.
*I really want new light fixtures in our house, but I don't know how to justify buying them. What's wrong with a little more of a contemporary lighting in this old house, huh!?!? :)
Cheers!
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Just a few things...
*My mother in law was here for 10 days and it was wonderful to have extra hands and adult conversations! Plus, the boys were so glad to have grammy here. Although, Andrew renamed her -- meme :)
*It's almost May. That blows my mind.
*May is going to be busy: a little family vacation, Andrew's second birthday, finding out if we are having a boy or a girl, Patrick's taking a trip for work, Memorial day fun -- but not in that order.
*Finding time to sit down and blog is tough lately. I want to do it. I want to remember things and write them down and take pictures and put them up. I just...don't.
*I'm going to do a giveaway soon. This is my 1004 posts. And that is crazy. But I've been buying random things to put in a little "thanks for reading my blog" basket {or box}.
*Andrew is the strongest kid I know. He hangs on things and can pull me around. He also falls more than any other kid I know. He always has a bruise or scratch or something. Poor guy.
*I've recently been able to feel the baby move around. They are still little flutters and nothing too pushy -- but certainly much earlier than the last two pregnancies! I love these fun little milestones.
*When Benjamin dresses himself, his socks never match. Ever. And I don't change it. I think it's cute.
*I ran the OKC Memorial 5k on Sunday. The whole event is so beautiful and so humbling! It really makes me feel like I'm an Oklahoman. And I get to see the growth and strength of this wonderful city. Being there made me want to run the half marathon, but I knew that was not possible right now! :) My 5k time was slow, about a 12 minute mile, but I finished and ran the entire time.
*Andrew loves trains. He loves them. And helicopters. And diggers. And firetrucks. He is such a boy!
*Benjamin is so excited about having a baby. And he is so grown up, it seems. The conversations we have are funny and serious and so...big. He also wanted to know how babies come out the other day. Good grief.
OKay -- enough for today. I need to corral some boys and get them in the car.
*It's almost May. That blows my mind.
*May is going to be busy: a little family vacation, Andrew's second birthday, finding out if we are having a boy or a girl, Patrick's taking a trip for work, Memorial day fun -- but not in that order.
*Finding time to sit down and blog is tough lately. I want to do it. I want to remember things and write them down and take pictures and put them up. I just...don't.
*I'm going to do a giveaway soon. This is my 1004 posts. And that is crazy. But I've been buying random things to put in a little "thanks for reading my blog" basket {or box}.
*Andrew is the strongest kid I know. He hangs on things and can pull me around. He also falls more than any other kid I know. He always has a bruise or scratch or something. Poor guy.
*I've recently been able to feel the baby move around. They are still little flutters and nothing too pushy -- but certainly much earlier than the last two pregnancies! I love these fun little milestones.
*When Benjamin dresses himself, his socks never match. Ever. And I don't change it. I think it's cute.
*I ran the OKC Memorial 5k on Sunday. The whole event is so beautiful and so humbling! It really makes me feel like I'm an Oklahoman. And I get to see the growth and strength of this wonderful city. Being there made me want to run the half marathon, but I knew that was not possible right now! :) My 5k time was slow, about a 12 minute mile, but I finished and ran the entire time.
*Andrew loves trains. He loves them. And helicopters. And diggers. And firetrucks. He is such a boy!
*Benjamin is so excited about having a baby. And he is so grown up, it seems. The conversations we have are funny and serious and so...big. He also wanted to know how babies come out the other day. Good grief.
OKay -- enough for today. I need to corral some boys and get them in the car.
Friday, March 22, 2013
Preparing for Holy Week...
There are certainly so many great things you can read to prepare your heart to celebrate Easter weekend. It's a week full of reminders of all the incredible truths from this painful and joyous event. Our church, Henderson Hills Baptist Church, put together a devotional for this coming week.
Check it out here!
You can also go to this page and listen to the songs the worship team wrote to remember and rejoice in the death and resurrection of Jesus! The lyrics are at the bottom of the page, too!
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Oh hey!
I'm still around.
Hi. Have you missed me? Don't answer that unless it's yes.
Life has our days and evenings pretty full. But full of good things. And full of things that constantly make me realize my need for Jesus so I can serve my husband and boys, care for and love my friends and fulfill other commitments required of us right now!
BUT to give you something to read, and to let you know that I'm alive, I thought I would pass along this article from the GirlTalk blog. It was so encouraging to me to read about what a godly woman looks like and it's something I strive to work on daily. I would love, at the end of my life, for this list to be true of me -- and how I lived!
I know, though, that there are so many things and places that need growth and maturity. I have not arrived. {and if I ever think so, correct me!} Praise God for grace and His patience with us! There is always a sin to confess and a prayer to pray and scripture to read. I love that about the Lord...He is always refreshing, always accepting and more than willing to change and love and grow us.
So, check out this post on "What a Godly Woman Looks Life". Hopefully it will encourage your heart, too!
Aaaaaannnnnd time to go. Andrew is having an after-nap party in his crib and I need to join in on the fun!
Hi. Have you missed me? Don't answer that unless it's yes.
Life has our days and evenings pretty full. But full of good things. And full of things that constantly make me realize my need for Jesus so I can serve my husband and boys, care for and love my friends and fulfill other commitments required of us right now!
BUT to give you something to read, and to let you know that I'm alive, I thought I would pass along this article from the GirlTalk blog. It was so encouraging to me to read about what a godly woman looks like and it's something I strive to work on daily. I would love, at the end of my life, for this list to be true of me -- and how I lived!
I know, though, that there are so many things and places that need growth and maturity. I have not arrived. {and if I ever think so, correct me!} Praise God for grace and His patience with us! There is always a sin to confess and a prayer to pray and scripture to read. I love that about the Lord...He is always refreshing, always accepting and more than willing to change and love and grow us.
So, check out this post on "What a Godly Woman Looks Life". Hopefully it will encourage your heart, too!
Aaaaaannnnnd time to go. Andrew is having an after-nap party in his crib and I need to join in on the fun!
Monday, January 21, 2013
Etsy favs...
Okay. Etsy loves for the day. I have a lot of prints hanging around this old house and I love it so much. I love supporting local artists. I love having fun things on my walls. Also, I love my marriage so I won't buy anymore for awhile.
{But you're welcome to send some my way -- if you have any extras hanging around ;)}
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| I have this baby hanging above our table. I think it says a lot that I would be willing to hang such a bold statement for the entire world {er. visitors} to see. I love the guys in this house more than coffee, people! source here. |
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| Pure greateness. For the kitchen, duh. source here. |
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| This verse is beyond meaningful to me. It shapes my soul in ways that I can't describe. And I love this print. Love it. source here. |
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| Yes. source here. |
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| Not just for Valentine's Day, but for every day hanging in our bedroom. I love this so much. source here. |
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| These words are sitting on my mantel. In a frame. I want to remember this to the core of me on a daily basis and believe it fully. And after the last year, I love deserts because there is always joy. source here. |
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| On the mantel. |
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| Just another framer for the bedroom. source here. {Can you tell I love katygirl? Her etsy shop is so much fun!} |
Sunday, December 16, 2012
Right now...
Right now -- at this very moment:
*I'm enjoying a beautiful, way-too-warm-for-December, Sunday afternoon.
*Both boys are sleeping and I'm sure B is having dreams about The Grinch because we have read it so much over the last few days.
*Patrick is sitting at the table working on seminary and FLOCK. I'm so blessed by his diligence and, even more, his knowledge of God's word and ability to teach it.
*My house is pretty clean. I've been off of my game the last few days, so there was clutter galore. If I were pregnant, I would call the busyness of today "nesting". Otherwise I don't know how to express the go mode I've been on today!
*I have finishing wrapping all but two presents and they are out of the guest room.
*But I just remembered I forgot to buy one present, so I'll be all over that tomorrow.
*I'm making a lengthy "to-do" list for the week. I'm mostly beyond excited for the things I get to do/have to do. Just another reason I love my job ;)
*I can't believe all the emails I get on a daily basis. And not friendly, how are you doing or can I ask you a question emails. Store emails and buy things emails. I need to go through my inbox and unsubscribe to so many things!
*I am ONE {ish} pound away from my goal weight. Just one. That makes me pretty excited, too. Not because I will weigh "such and such", but because I was able to set a goal and reach it despite many of setbacks {think: hernia surgery, fertility meds, traveling}.
*I have hung all things that I've wanted to hang on the walls -- Christmas and not.
*I have cautiously and hesitantly placed several presents under the tree.
*I am debating uploading my iPhone pictures to my computer...
*I'm kind of amazed that it's almost Christmas. Wasn't it just Thanksgiving? Or March? Either way, I just love this time of year and I feel like I'm letting it slip away.
*God has overwhelmingly cared for me over the last few weeks and today, as I prepare to dive into His word, I'm so grateful for the refreshment and renewal He has brought over and in and through me.
*This photo expresses several things {right now}:
1. My sweet friend made me this coffee mug -- a "postcup" -- that reminds me that I'm loved.
2. My hair is at it's longest ever, I think.
3. My hair is super straight because I got a new -- and awesome -- straightener for my birthday.
4. I am wearing work-out clothes because I used my Christmas present this morning :) and then I have been cleaning and organizing and purging all morning.
5. I am wearing NO make-up and that makes me a little nervous to post on the blog.
*I'm enjoying a beautiful, way-too-warm-for-December, Sunday afternoon.
*Both boys are sleeping and I'm sure B is having dreams about The Grinch because we have read it so much over the last few days.
*Patrick is sitting at the table working on seminary and FLOCK. I'm so blessed by his diligence and, even more, his knowledge of God's word and ability to teach it.
*My house is pretty clean. I've been off of my game the last few days, so there was clutter galore. If I were pregnant, I would call the busyness of today "nesting". Otherwise I don't know how to express the go mode I've been on today!
*I have finishing wrapping all but two presents and they are out of the guest room.
*But I just remembered I forgot to buy one present, so I'll be all over that tomorrow.
*I'm making a lengthy "to-do" list for the week. I'm mostly beyond excited for the things I get to do/have to do. Just another reason I love my job ;)
*I can't believe all the emails I get on a daily basis. And not friendly, how are you doing or can I ask you a question emails. Store emails and buy things emails. I need to go through my inbox and unsubscribe to so many things!
*I am ONE {ish} pound away from my goal weight. Just one. That makes me pretty excited, too. Not because I will weigh "such and such", but because I was able to set a goal and reach it despite many of setbacks {think: hernia surgery, fertility meds, traveling}.
*I have hung all things that I've wanted to hang on the walls -- Christmas and not.
*I have cautiously and hesitantly placed several presents under the tree.
*I am debating uploading my iPhone pictures to my computer...
*I'm kind of amazed that it's almost Christmas. Wasn't it just Thanksgiving? Or March? Either way, I just love this time of year and I feel like I'm letting it slip away.
*God has overwhelmingly cared for me over the last few weeks and today, as I prepare to dive into His word, I'm so grateful for the refreshment and renewal He has brought over and in and through me.
*This photo expresses several things {right now}:
1. My sweet friend made me this coffee mug -- a "postcup" -- that reminds me that I'm loved.
2. My hair is at it's longest ever, I think.
3. My hair is super straight because I got a new -- and awesome -- straightener for my birthday.
4. I am wearing work-out clothes because I used my Christmas present this morning :) and then I have been cleaning and organizing and purging all morning.
5. I am wearing NO make-up and that makes me a little nervous to post on the blog.
Thursday, October 11, 2012
A list for you.
I realize I haven't blogged in two weeks. I've been writing posts in my head, but they never actually happen. Instead, I will give you an informative list about our lives and you can look forward to my next post about all the awesome foods I've been cooking up. You'll want to check back for that one.
*Patrick was in Ecuador for nine days. Well, two of those days were travel days. He was teaching pastors there about the Old Testament. God did awesome things and I'm so blessed to serve a man who willingly fulfills the ministry God has called him to at this point in his life. Patrick is so gifted at teaching and presenting the Word well. God has certainly gifted him! And I think he is awesome.
*We have been playing "Pirates and Princess" a lot lately. And I'm pretty sure our couch has been a castle for three days. There is really no reason to take it down only to put it back up.
*When we play P&P, Benjamin always asks me to dress up like a princess. So, I put on my prom dress {which is black and too big, so it just doesn't look very princess-y} and B said, "Um. Where is your big, white and fluffy princess dress". I explained that I wasn't a real princess and that I did not have a dress like that. Although, I think I need to change that. I kind of want him to think that I'm a real princess ;)
*And while we were playing P&P tonight, I had on the black prom princess dress and Patrick started this awful bit about black being the evil witch dress color. But I'll have you know that, despite his best efforts to turn B against me, B did not want me to change and insisted that I was still the princess. Bless that child.
*I found this new app called PepperPlate. It's wonderful and I really enjoy it. And I will elaborate when I go into detail about the yummy food we've had for dinner in my next post.
*My mom is having surgery {again} to remove cancer from her body on Wednesday. This is round number two for her and the cancer is in a different spot this time. Please pray for her and the surgery and the doctors. And go ahead and give her a little shout out in the comments ;)
*B wants to be a "Star War" for halloween. And I laugh about this. But he's very serious. We have never seen the movies {as in, he has not} and only knows about Star Wars from friends. And Target. As far as I can gather, he wants to be a jedi -- not a storm trooper, or darth vader, or princess Leah. He mentioned something about Luke Starwalker. Ha. hahahahhahahahaha. He makes me laugh so much, and sometimes he has no clue.
*I was thinking today that Andrew will be 17 months old in six days. I got pregnant with Andrew when B was 17 months old. And I was sick a lot and slept on the couch and B watched A LOT of Elmo and I don't know how we survived. But my point is this: I would not trust Andrew at all if I fell asleep on the couch. And even more, I would not trust B and AR together if I was asleep on the couch. B is a little more cautious, but still Andrew has no fear and does not watch TV. SO hear this -- God's timing is ALWAYS perfect :) Amen.
That's all for now. I need to sleep.
*Patrick was in Ecuador for nine days. Well, two of those days were travel days. He was teaching pastors there about the Old Testament. God did awesome things and I'm so blessed to serve a man who willingly fulfills the ministry God has called him to at this point in his life. Patrick is so gifted at teaching and presenting the Word well. God has certainly gifted him! And I think he is awesome.
*We have been playing "Pirates and Princess" a lot lately. And I'm pretty sure our couch has been a castle for three days. There is really no reason to take it down only to put it back up.
*When we play P&P, Benjamin always asks me to dress up like a princess. So, I put on my prom dress {which is black and too big, so it just doesn't look very princess-y} and B said, "Um. Where is your big, white and fluffy princess dress". I explained that I wasn't a real princess and that I did not have a dress like that. Although, I think I need to change that. I kind of want him to think that I'm a real princess ;)
*And while we were playing P&P tonight, I had on the black prom princess dress and Patrick started this awful bit about black being the evil witch dress color. But I'll have you know that, despite his best efforts to turn B against me, B did not want me to change and insisted that I was still the princess. Bless that child.
*I found this new app called PepperPlate. It's wonderful and I really enjoy it. And I will elaborate when I go into detail about the yummy food we've had for dinner in my next post.
*My mom is having surgery {again} to remove cancer from her body on Wednesday. This is round number two for her and the cancer is in a different spot this time. Please pray for her and the surgery and the doctors. And go ahead and give her a little shout out in the comments ;)
*B wants to be a "Star War" for halloween. And I laugh about this. But he's very serious. We have never seen the movies {as in, he has not} and only knows about Star Wars from friends. And Target. As far as I can gather, he wants to be a jedi -- not a storm trooper, or darth vader, or princess Leah. He mentioned something about Luke Starwalker. Ha. hahahahhahahahaha. He makes me laugh so much, and sometimes he has no clue.
*I was thinking today that Andrew will be 17 months old in six days. I got pregnant with Andrew when B was 17 months old. And I was sick a lot and slept on the couch and B watched A LOT of Elmo and I don't know how we survived. But my point is this: I would not trust Andrew at all if I fell asleep on the couch. And even more, I would not trust B and AR together if I was asleep on the couch. B is a little more cautious, but still Andrew has no fear and does not watch TV. SO hear this -- God's timing is ALWAYS perfect :) Amen.
That's all for now. I need to sleep.
Monday, September 24, 2012
Short and sweet.
This is how Andrew looks at me.
A lot.
He is a special guy.
He's so sweet and affectionate.
He's so strong willed and a risk taker.
He loves being about people.
He loves talking to people.
He loves to be in his crib.
He loves to sit and read books.
He's just this great mix.
I can't wait to see how he grows.
As in, I hope he gets a little taller because he is only in the 30th
percentile for height and weight.
And he is still wearing 12 month clothes.
But I do look forward to seeing the man he becomes.
Also.
He got FIVE teeth over the last three days.
And that explains why he's been a little irritated and not sleeping too great.
I mean, five is a lot.
Three molars and two...other ones.
I love Andrew Reid McBride!
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Very apparent.
Lately a few things have been increasingly apparent to me. Here is a list, in no suggestive order:
1. I really enjoy taking pictures, but there is a good reason I do not to it for free very often -- it's so time consuming. And it's kind of intense for a person like me. All those pictures, so much editing, trying to get everything just right. I do not have time or energy for that more than once a year!
2. I've noticed that we go through a lot of toilet paper around here. This is rather discouraging because I am the only one who uses any significant amount of toilet paper.
3. The more times we try Clomid to get pregnant, the more I realize that having a large biological family will not be very likely for us. Not that I am, or am not, currently on it -- just that it's very apparent that being crazy and irrational and feeling awful isn't the best way to serve my family. When is it enough? Or too much? I have a lot of thoughts I'm wresting through all of this.
4. I've been reading a few books lately {gasp!!! I know, I love to shock the world sometimes...} and it's apparent that the more I grow in my faith, the more I desire to learn and grow and read about things that will help me grow. And I don't really like reading self-help books. {that realization was free, friends!}
5. My body has acclimated to Oklahoma weather. By this I mean that I was freezing and it was 80 degrees outside. Also, thunderstorms don't make me nearly as nervous as the use to -- unless there is some crazy action going down on the TV. If the weather guys are all over the channels -- you better believe I'm hunkering down and getting the shelter ready!
6. I think I am becoming someone who can keep plants alive. Not to get all excited and pass around high fives, but I've kept FIVE plants alive for almost five weeks. Boom! AND last night when the weather radio went off at 2am for a severe thunderstorm warning, what did I think first?! "Oh, I should move my plants under the porch!" And I did. See -- anything is possible!
7. My sin. God has been showing me layer upon layer of sin in myself lately. I'm so grateful! It's been so wonderful to lay things at His feet and go confidently before Him, without shame or guilt, because of the freedom given to me through the cross of Christ. {What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus!}
8. Little "camp" fires in our back yard are truly a wonderful thing. Why do I love the crackle of a fire? Why do I love the smell of burning wood? Why do I love to sit with my feet thisclose to the fire? I don't know any of this -- but it's apparent that I love it. And it makes for an incredible stay-at-home-date-night with my love.
9. How could I forget the OKC Thunder?! Come on! It's very apparent that I need to get some Thunder gear. I can't live in OKC and not have at least one shirt that shows my "love" for the game. Or the play-offs. Or whatever. Thunder Up!!
And I think that's all. Happy Sunday to you!
1. I really enjoy taking pictures, but there is a good reason I do not to it for free very often -- it's so time consuming. And it's kind of intense for a person like me. All those pictures, so much editing, trying to get everything just right. I do not have time or energy for that more than once a year!
2. I've noticed that we go through a lot of toilet paper around here. This is rather discouraging because I am the only one who uses any significant amount of toilet paper.
3. The more times we try Clomid to get pregnant, the more I realize that having a large biological family will not be very likely for us. Not that I am, or am not, currently on it -- just that it's very apparent that being crazy and irrational and feeling awful isn't the best way to serve my family. When is it enough? Or too much? I have a lot of thoughts I'm wresting through all of this.
4. I've been reading a few books lately {gasp!!! I know, I love to shock the world sometimes...} and it's apparent that the more I grow in my faith, the more I desire to learn and grow and read about things that will help me grow. And I don't really like reading self-help books. {that realization was free, friends!}
5. My body has acclimated to Oklahoma weather. By this I mean that I was freezing and it was 80 degrees outside. Also, thunderstorms don't make me nearly as nervous as the use to -- unless there is some crazy action going down on the TV. If the weather guys are all over the channels -- you better believe I'm hunkering down and getting the shelter ready!
6. I think I am becoming someone who can keep plants alive. Not to get all excited and pass around high fives, but I've kept FIVE plants alive for almost five weeks. Boom! AND last night when the weather radio went off at 2am for a severe thunderstorm warning, what did I think first?! "Oh, I should move my plants under the porch!" And I did. See -- anything is possible!
7. My sin. God has been showing me layer upon layer of sin in myself lately. I'm so grateful! It's been so wonderful to lay things at His feet and go confidently before Him, without shame or guilt, because of the freedom given to me through the cross of Christ. {What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus!}
8. Little "camp" fires in our back yard are truly a wonderful thing. Why do I love the crackle of a fire? Why do I love the smell of burning wood? Why do I love to sit with my feet thisclose to the fire? I don't know any of this -- but it's apparent that I love it. And it makes for an incredible stay-at-home-date-night with my love.
9. How could I forget the OKC Thunder?! Come on! It's very apparent that I need to get some Thunder gear. I can't live in OKC and not have at least one shirt that shows my "love" for the game. Or the play-offs. Or whatever. Thunder Up!!
And I think that's all. Happy Sunday to you!
Monday, May 14, 2012
Meaningful Monday...
Note: Did you like my previous post? That was from Benjamin, who blogged from my phone -- somehow. Crazy {and way to smart for his own good} kid!
It's Monday. Sorry I've been absent from writing about meaningful things for a few weeks. We've had grandma's in town, and it's been nice to have extra hands. Now we are back to "normal". Our schedules can resume and we can do things as we usually do. But I do love having extra hands around! It's not often that I have help and it's truly a blessing and a beautiful thing.
I will honestly tell you that writing something meaningful will be difficult today. I seem to have a lot processing going on in my mind. And my heart is somewhat achy. I've been praying hard for miracles around here. I've been disciplining and correcting. I've been singing and crying. I've been laughing and talking. I've been thinking and planning -- despite knowing that is usually not good for me.
My baby boy will be one on Thursday. One year. Where did that go? Have I blessed him, loved him, cherished him enough?
My big boy has a buzz cut, to look like daddy, and that makes him look so grown up. How is he already three and ready for pre-school? Does he feel special and card for and as wonderful as he really is?
My heart desires another baby, but I know it isn't that easy. And as we take steps to help that happen, it's so hard to handle somedays. Like today. I just can't handle Clomid again right now. We tried that last month, and it didn't work. My heart can't take all that awful medicine and heartache and crazy moods over and over again. It takes so much out of me, even though I know the end result is so good. I am just going to pray for God to be bigger than medicine and work a miracle in my body {again! I won't stop!}.
The Lord has revealed to me more pride in my heart. He has shown me how "entitled" I think I am. And after a few days of living with this realization and observing myself -- it makes me sick to my stomach! Who do I think I am? Why would I think I deserve anything or need the best? When did I become so full of myself that the rest of the world didn't seem to matter? Either way, I'm praying fervently for this idol to be cast away so I can humbly live the rest of my life -- whatever that looks like.
And all this jumbled mess of thoughts, just to remember this: God is for me, not against me. I am more than a conquer through Christ. I cannot be separated from the love of Christ. Any suffering I endure is worth it and not comparable to the glory that will be revealed to me. The Spirit helps me in my weakness. When I live according to the Spirit, my mind will be set on the Spirit. I know that there is power and beauty and freedom and righteousness in the cross, through Christ. And more so, I know that ALL things work together for good and God's glory. {see Romans 8} I firmly and confidently believe all of these words are truth and will walk contently in the power of the cross!
I love how the Lord brings us to our knees and gives us the opportunity to cling to Him. And I believe -- without a shadow of doubt -- that every single thing going on in my life is good. It may be hard. I may cry. I may rejoice. I may be exhausted. But I have hope. And peace. And abounding grace. All things are working together for God's glory right now -- and I'm so grateful that He would chose to work in and around and through me.
See, I suppose all of this is meaningful.
How is your Monday meaningful?
It's Monday. Sorry I've been absent from writing about meaningful things for a few weeks. We've had grandma's in town, and it's been nice to have extra hands. Now we are back to "normal". Our schedules can resume and we can do things as we usually do. But I do love having extra hands around! It's not often that I have help and it's truly a blessing and a beautiful thing.
I will honestly tell you that writing something meaningful will be difficult today. I seem to have a lot processing going on in my mind. And my heart is somewhat achy. I've been praying hard for miracles around here. I've been disciplining and correcting. I've been singing and crying. I've been laughing and talking. I've been thinking and planning -- despite knowing that is usually not good for me.
My baby boy will be one on Thursday. One year. Where did that go? Have I blessed him, loved him, cherished him enough?
My big boy has a buzz cut, to look like daddy, and that makes him look so grown up. How is he already three and ready for pre-school? Does he feel special and card for and as wonderful as he really is?
My heart desires another baby, but I know it isn't that easy. And as we take steps to help that happen, it's so hard to handle somedays. Like today. I just can't handle Clomid again right now. We tried that last month, and it didn't work. My heart can't take all that awful medicine and heartache and crazy moods over and over again. It takes so much out of me, even though I know the end result is so good. I am just going to pray for God to be bigger than medicine and work a miracle in my body {again! I won't stop!}.
The Lord has revealed to me more pride in my heart. He has shown me how "entitled" I think I am. And after a few days of living with this realization and observing myself -- it makes me sick to my stomach! Who do I think I am? Why would I think I deserve anything or need the best? When did I become so full of myself that the rest of the world didn't seem to matter? Either way, I'm praying fervently for this idol to be cast away so I can humbly live the rest of my life -- whatever that looks like.
And all this jumbled mess of thoughts, just to remember this: God is for me, not against me. I am more than a conquer through Christ. I cannot be separated from the love of Christ. Any suffering I endure is worth it and not comparable to the glory that will be revealed to me. The Spirit helps me in my weakness. When I live according to the Spirit, my mind will be set on the Spirit. I know that there is power and beauty and freedom and righteousness in the cross, through Christ. And more so, I know that ALL things work together for good and God's glory. {see Romans 8} I firmly and confidently believe all of these words are truth and will walk contently in the power of the cross!
I love how the Lord brings us to our knees and gives us the opportunity to cling to Him. And I believe -- without a shadow of doubt -- that every single thing going on in my life is good. It may be hard. I may cry. I may rejoice. I may be exhausted. But I have hope. And peace. And abounding grace. All things are working together for God's glory right now -- and I'm so grateful that He would chose to work in and around and through me.
See, I suppose all of this is meaningful.
How is your Monday meaningful?
Friday, April 20, 2012
What?
I'll have you know I just got home from an awesome date with a sweeeeeet little boy. He's great -- and sleeping now.
I wore him out at the mall. He requested a Auntie Annie's pretzel and a visit to the Lego store. I complied, happily, with both. But I made him shop with me at a few stores before we left :) Lucky for me, he loves being with me and being out in the world. These dates mean so much to both of us. Especially after weeks like the last one.
*sigh* Three year old are emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually exhausting.
And now, back to my watermelon.
Friday, April 13, 2012
Two things:
1. I'm participating in a toddler busy bag exchange. There are eight of us and we are each making an activity. When it's all said and done, we'll each have eight different activities. Yeah for my boys and fun things to entertain them!
I made this little bag of fun.
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I used six different types of pasta and colored them {with rubbing alcohol and food dye}, put a cup of each color inside a freezer bag. Then I cup a ribbon and tied a knot on one side for stringing. I threw in six cupcake things {WHAT are those called?!} for shape and color sorting. |
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2. We got a weather radio today because, well, it's going to be a crazy weather weekend around here. I plugged it in when I got home today and it instantly produced an ample amount of anxiety within me. It probably didn't help that I was already a little shaky because of the imminent weather around us.
BUT there is something good about that awful and annoying beeping and warning {you know, aside from letting us know there is a tornado coming...}! It is so helpful for this {fairly} new Oklahoma girl to learn how to pronounce all the counties and cities. I apparently need help with this because I have not pronounced any cities in Oklahoma correctly -- except for Edmond and Oklahoma City {well, and Norman and Moore and Stillwater. See! I know a few of them!}.
Either way. Sapulpa. Choctaw. Miami. Comanche. Etowah. Eufaula. Okmulgee. These are not cities an East Coast girl grows up learning about ;)
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PS -- An added bonus for you: Benjamin has been walking around lately saying, "I'm not growing very well." It usually happens when he wants something. And it makes me laugh. But I always tell him that I think he's growing VERY well and maybe he should eat more dinner to help him. He does not like when I say this. But it's very true.
Friday, March 30, 2012
A friday post about nothing...
It's Friday.
I'm pretty sure I write an "it's Friday" post at least every two months.
But I cannot help my excitement. This weekend should be fun. And full of good things. And I'm excited for what God is doing in our lives. Just to be honest.
Also, Patrick will be home for two days!
It's been an early rising week for us. Both boys have been up by 6am, usually closer to 5:30am. And on Tuesday, it was 5am. I'm beyond grateful for the grace given to me and to new mercies each day. Seriously. God's kindness and love for me blow me away.
As I type my life away, I hear Andrew crying {ish} through the monitor. I laid him down 20 minutes ago to nap. He talked for a while and then decided that sleeping was for other babes. That's right, my boy takes his morning nap between 7:30 and 8am. I'll be glad when morning naps are gone!
Benjamin was watching SuperWhy, but just came to me and asked for a nail. Why? Well because he just needs a nail. I reminded him that we do not play with nails. And then I just heard him playing the drums, so I look and he has a large bucket on top of a plastic bin. He and the bucket are on the bin -- and the beat is pretty good.
Speaking of sleep: why can't I sleep? I've been pretty tired this week, as you can imagine, but each night I lay down I just can't fall asleep. I think moms work on the same schedule as {most} kids. Earlier bedtime = later wake time. I have good intentions of going to bed at 9pm. It's just that I get into something. I start cleaning, or straightening my hair. I hang out with Patrick and talk uncontrollably until he's falling asleep and has to mumble answers to me. I just really want to sleep. Maybe I should stop talking.
My friend Jamie is having a baby and we are showering her this weekend. I love baby showers. And babies. And when my friends have baby girls because I can buy pink things. And I have a lot to say about being the only girl around here -- but that needs to wait until another day when I have time to think and make sense before I type.
I'm drinking instant coffee this morning. I know, I know. I have good options in my house AND within a 10 mile radius. It's just that I didn't want to mess with everything. I just needed coffee ASAP. I love coffee. I love when I walk by the grinder in my kitchen and it smells like incredibly wonderful coffee {from coffee slingers} just waiting to fill my nose and mind. Good coffee is what all mornings should smell like.
I'm drinking coffee out of the yellow mug up there. It's from World Market. I love it. And I love this mug set. I got it at Pier 1 and it's just so pretty. There are four. Come over for coffee, if you want.
As you know, Benjamin is into super heros. And it has expanded, thanks to the Marvel comics. Where there is Spider-Man there is usually the Incredible Hulk, Captain America or Thor. Last night I was putting B to bed and as I was leaving we had this conversation:
Happy Friday to you all! My baby is sleeping, so I need to enjoy some along time with my big boy for a bit!!!
I'm pretty sure I write an "it's Friday" post at least every two months.
But I cannot help my excitement. This weekend should be fun. And full of good things. And I'm excited for what God is doing in our lives. Just to be honest.
Also, Patrick will be home for two days!
It's been an early rising week for us. Both boys have been up by 6am, usually closer to 5:30am. And on Tuesday, it was 5am. I'm beyond grateful for the grace given to me and to new mercies each day. Seriously. God's kindness and love for me blow me away.
As I type my life away, I hear Andrew crying {ish} through the monitor. I laid him down 20 minutes ago to nap. He talked for a while and then decided that sleeping was for other babes. That's right, my boy takes his morning nap between 7:30 and 8am. I'll be glad when morning naps are gone!
Benjamin was watching SuperWhy, but just came to me and asked for a nail. Why? Well because he just needs a nail. I reminded him that we do not play with nails. And then I just heard him playing the drums, so I look and he has a large bucket on top of a plastic bin. He and the bucket are on the bin -- and the beat is pretty good.
Speaking of sleep: why can't I sleep? I've been pretty tired this week, as you can imagine, but each night I lay down I just can't fall asleep. I think moms work on the same schedule as {most} kids. Earlier bedtime = later wake time. I have good intentions of going to bed at 9pm. It's just that I get into something. I start cleaning, or straightening my hair. I hang out with Patrick and talk uncontrollably until he's falling asleep and has to mumble answers to me. I just really want to sleep. Maybe I should stop talking.
My friend Jamie is having a baby and we are showering her this weekend. I love baby showers. And babies. And when my friends have baby girls because I can buy pink things. And I have a lot to say about being the only girl around here -- but that needs to wait until another day when I have time to think and make sense before I type.
I'm drinking instant coffee this morning. I know, I know. I have good options in my house AND within a 10 mile radius. It's just that I didn't want to mess with everything. I just needed coffee ASAP. I love coffee. I love when I walk by the grinder in my kitchen and it smells like incredibly wonderful coffee {from coffee slingers} just waiting to fill my nose and mind. Good coffee is what all mornings should smell like.
As you know, Benjamin is into super heros. And it has expanded, thanks to the Marvel comics. Where there is Spider-Man there is usually the Incredible Hulk, Captain America or Thor. Last night I was putting B to bed and as I was leaving we had this conversation:
I was doing my best to reason with my child about being a really cool and sassy super hero. That didn't go so well for me. When he woke up this morning, HE was the Incredible Hulk and I was Batman. Apparently something I said made sense. But I don't count on being Wonder Woman anytime soon.Me: I love you Spider-Benjamin. B: Mom. I am Spider-Man. And dad is Captain America. You are Incredible Hulk. Me: But I don't want to be the Hulk. Can't I be Wonder Woman. Wonder Mom, even! Or Cat Woman. Not the Hulk. B: No. You have to be the Incredible Hulk. Me: Why do I have to be the very large and green thing? Hulk is a boy. I am a girl.
Happy Friday to you all! My baby is sleeping, so I need to enjoy some along time with my big boy for a bit!!!
Friday, March 2, 2012
Family Funday Friday
On Fridays Chesapeake employees can invite their families to work for lunch. We love going to see Patrick for lunch and it's an added bonus that we can stay on campus. Benjamin talks about seeing daddy at work all morning and loves when we can go to his office after lunch. Me, well, I love seeing Patrick --for sure! -- but here are just some of the other things I love about Family funday Friday!
* The food is top notch! Today I had halibut. And I always get swordfish when they have it. There is always such a great variety and it's really cheap {but good!} The food is made on campus {by CHK chefs!} and there are three restaurants to choose from. We are enjoying the newest restaurant because it's right next to Patrick's office.
* The music while we eat is fabulous. Oh no, it's not live. It's awesome hits from the late 80's and into the 90's! I sing every.song. It's really fantastic. We {um. I} sing and dance at our table because I simply cannot help myself. I'm certain that Patrick is slightly embarrassed. Benjamin is wonderful to sing and dance with me. And today Andrew bounced around. I've got them right where I want them! Now, if we could get Patrick to love Boys II Men and Kris Kross. I love music from the 80's and 90's. I'm reliving my childhood here, people!
* Playing in daddy's office after lunch means 20-30 minutes of my day that Benjamin is content and near his daddy -- which is heaven to him! An added bonus: there is a laser pointer and scrap paper for dinosaur drawing. Why can't we go to daddy's office everyday?
* Free refills -- and they have cherry syrup for soda. I'm just saying.
* Getting to dress up for casual Friday. Employees get to "dress down" on Fridays, but there is still a pretty strict dress code and families have to follow those guidelines also. I don't mind, I love looking nice and wearing something other than a t-shirt! {minus the one time I was huge and pregnant and wore khaki shorts -- and Patrick got in trouble! I cried a lot about that. They are serious people! Follow the rules!}
* The bathrooms are so quiet. I mean, silent -- almost. It's glorious. And today, when I went to the bathroom during lunch, I stayed a little longer because it was perfectly silent. I couldn't even hear the music. Or anything. Then someone else came into the bathroom and I decided it was a little too silent to stay with company.
* It's so clean. All of it. CHK is just a clean place. And I like that. Until my kids come, then it is not clean. And I have to get in the floor and clean up after them -- but everything else is cleaned by someone else and it's very nice.
Okay -- that's all for now. I'm too tired and have way too much to do around here. It's just that blogging is so much nicer than enforcing nap time, cleaning the kitchen, vacuuming, making dinner, picking up and folding laundry. But it's my job and I'll do it joyfully :)
* The food is top notch! Today I had halibut. And I always get swordfish when they have it. There is always such a great variety and it's really cheap {but good!} The food is made on campus {by CHK chefs!} and there are three restaurants to choose from. We are enjoying the newest restaurant because it's right next to Patrick's office.
* The music while we eat is fabulous. Oh no, it's not live. It's awesome hits from the late 80's and into the 90's! I sing every.song. It's really fantastic. We {um. I} sing and dance at our table because I simply cannot help myself. I'm certain that Patrick is slightly embarrassed. Benjamin is wonderful to sing and dance with me. And today Andrew bounced around. I've got them right where I want them! Now, if we could get Patrick to love Boys II Men and Kris Kross. I love music from the 80's and 90's. I'm reliving my childhood here, people!
* Playing in daddy's office after lunch means 20-30 minutes of my day that Benjamin is content and near his daddy -- which is heaven to him! An added bonus: there is a laser pointer and scrap paper for dinosaur drawing. Why can't we go to daddy's office everyday?
* Free refills -- and they have cherry syrup for soda. I'm just saying.
* Getting to dress up for casual Friday. Employees get to "dress down" on Fridays, but there is still a pretty strict dress code and families have to follow those guidelines also. I don't mind, I love looking nice and wearing something other than a t-shirt! {minus the one time I was huge and pregnant and wore khaki shorts -- and Patrick got in trouble! I cried a lot about that. They are serious people! Follow the rules!}
* The bathrooms are so quiet. I mean, silent -- almost. It's glorious. And today, when I went to the bathroom during lunch, I stayed a little longer because it was perfectly silent. I couldn't even hear the music. Or anything. Then someone else came into the bathroom and I decided it was a little too silent to stay with company.
* It's so clean. All of it. CHK is just a clean place. And I like that. Until my kids come, then it is not clean. And I have to get in the floor and clean up after them -- but everything else is cleaned by someone else and it's very nice.
Okay -- that's all for now. I'm too tired and have way too much to do around here. It's just that blogging is so much nicer than enforcing nap time, cleaning the kitchen, vacuuming, making dinner, picking up and folding laundry. But it's my job and I'll do it joyfully :)
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Dear PBS kids...
Dear PBS kids --
I'm so grateful for you. Your shows are solid -- minus Arthur, but now is not the time to go into that -- and my children love them. You teach a lot of great things and have little exercise dances. I'm a little annoyed that I sing the Caillou song when I'm in the shower and that I'm still trying to figure out the words to the Curious George theme song. Such is the life of this momma.
Thanks for showing The Electric Company daily. I love the beat boxing and rapping. Even though the show is for fifth graders, I still like to watch it.
Also, thank you for having a regular line-up on the weekends. What. a. blessing.
Clearly, my children are watching way too much TV. But I'm over that and in the next season of our lives, we'll play outside more.
Can I have Rosa's job when she's done?
Love,
Ashley
P.S. Please high five your main squeeze, PBS, and thank them for showing Antique Roadshow and This Old House often. Can I have an, "I heart PBS" t-shirt? Thank you in advance :)
I'm so grateful for you. Your shows are solid -- minus Arthur, but now is not the time to go into that -- and my children love them. You teach a lot of great things and have little exercise dances. I'm a little annoyed that I sing the Caillou song when I'm in the shower and that I'm still trying to figure out the words to the Curious George theme song. Such is the life of this momma.
Thanks for showing The Electric Company daily. I love the beat boxing and rapping. Even though the show is for fifth graders, I still like to watch it.
Also, thank you for having a regular line-up on the weekends. What. a. blessing.
Clearly, my children are watching way too much TV. But I'm over that and in the next season of our lives, we'll play outside more.
Can I have Rosa's job when she's done?
Love,
Ashley
P.S. Please high five your main squeeze, PBS, and thank them for showing Antique Roadshow and This Old House often. Can I have an, "I heart PBS" t-shirt? Thank you in advance :)
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