Simply Sara

Bonding

2012-01-19T08:28:00.002-05:00

Part of moving to a new town, a new neighborhood, is putting yourself out of your comfort zone to meet people. I feel kind of like I'm dating again. Dating for friends. Searching for friends for the kids and friends for myself. We still live in the Charleston area, just moved to a new part of it. Thankfully, I can look back to 2009 and 2010 and see how God was really pushing me to get out of my comfort zone because He was preparing me for this new phase in life! (Love it when I can look back and see a purpose for my discomfort and pain!)

I can't help but ironically chuckle when I think about how God radically took me out of my comfort zone by relocating our family to the low county a year ago, and how He has done it all over again with this new move to Mt. Pleasant. Now, we're only 40 minutes away from friends and familiarity, but when you're coordinating around nap schedules and bus drop offs, traveling that far can make a big difference.

I've only meet a few young mommies so far, but I am finding that the joys and trials of mommyhood are a great meeting ground when making friends! It's pretty easy to laugh about the latest nap battle or phase of independence. You're child refusing to go to the potty? That's great, my toddler loves to smack his sister with his chubby, sticky little hands! Ha Ha. Oh, your Kindergartner would rather play all day and not practice his reading and writing too? Awesome. We're bonding all ready.

Today we're playdating again with new friends and I'm pretty excited. I have lots to talk about.... siblings who argue, my always-eating toddler, my 3 year old who loves to pretend to be a baby..... It's gonna be great!

Not hungry anymore

2012-01-15T22:49:00.001-05:00

5 pounds into my new weight loss journey and I must admit, I'm pretty excited. Oh the road before me is very long, but I am so hopeful. After 2 years of firmly cementing my bad eating habits into place, I'm ready for change. Ready to eat smaller portions, pig out on fruits and veggies and stop compulsively eating!

I have even allowed myself to believe that I will achieve my goal weight by my 30th birthday! Yes, I will enter my 30s at my lowest weight since getting married and I have 5 months to do it!

Ready for change. Ready to see things happen.

Books

2012-01-10T13:18:00.002-05:00

I think going to the library should be fun. Reading is fun. Libraries have books. Libraries should be fun, right? Well, we found a "fun" library today! Great atmosphere and friendly librarians totally made me forgive the rather outdated interior and size. I loaded up on beginning reader books for Lucas, "girlie" books for Ava, and a couple for me and Wyatt and a couple movies! We even arrived just before story time was beginning! We haven't done story time in over a year! Wyatt did pretty well, although an unpleasant diaper did interrupt the magical moment! My favorite part was the self-checkout! Ahhh-mazing!

cold hugs

2012-01-06T10:49:00.002-05:00

So I'm waiting in the drop-off line at school with Lucas this morning when he spies his (assistant) teacher, "Mom, Ms. K is always cold when I hug her in the morning!"

This admission of hugging made my heart so happy! Hooray for teachers who give hugs! As much as I miss Lucas and pray for him during the day, I'm so happy to hear he's getting a little affection at school! Well, I'm not happy about the girls who chase boys around the playground trying to kiss them! That's a whole different kind of affection!

2012-01-04T07:01:00.001-05:00

I am NOT adjusting well to the back to school routine of waking up before 6! I hate it! grrrrrr.....

Seriously, how am I supposed to loving take care of my children when I'm so stinking tired? Must.go.to.bed.early.tonight.

Choices

2012-01-03T17:54:00.002-05:00

Some days, I feel like I have to chose between playing with my children and cooking a healthy dinner. I hate that. I want to give them both.

Tonight we're eating last night's dinner and squash. And we wrestled for an hour.

Eggs

2012-01-02T10:25:00.001-05:00

In the spirit of change, I cooked and ate a sunny-side egg for the first time this morning! And I liked it! Over the past year as God has gently pushed and sometimes shoved me through opportunities of change, I've realized that I miss out on a lot of good things when I'm not open to something new.

Like sunny-side eggs.

Lucas and Matt are out riding bikes this morning before Matt goes into work. Lucas has asked us to take his training wheels off! Looks like someone else is doing a little growing up this year!

2012

2012-01-01T16:50:00.001-05:00

We have been living in our new place for just over a month now. I marvel at how quickly it has become home to us. There are still boxes to unpack, closets to organize, and pictures to hang (and a loooong list of other to-dos), but that all just makes it feel even more like home. We are in a long term rental since our home in the Upstate is also being rented.

I hope you had a Merry Christmas. We spent several days with my family, relaxing, eating way too much, and enjoying time catching up. It felt like a mini-vacation. Actually since I didn't have to cook or clean for 4 days, it was a vacation! It was such a special time.

I caught myself many times during the (short) fall season here in Charleston complaining about the warm weather and the lack of chill in the air; however, experiencing that chilly weather back in Georgia last week, I am happy that we live on the coast! We have been riding bikes and playing outside without scarves and gloves and hats and I am so happy about that! I can do with never having to bundle up three kids just to get in the car and hear them complain about being too hot ever again! Are you feeling me?

I am so optimistic about this new year. In many ways, we have just come out of a major year of change, but I am still praying for more. Well, not big change, but personal change. Like maybe my hair color, my weight, and my heart, in no particular order, of course! I also hope to make friends in our new neighborhood and get plugged into a local MOPS. I also would like to change my lack of dancing abilities, but I'm not sure that's going to happen.

Here's to a new year and a new perspective! We're planting roots and watching beautiful things happen!

Learning to Listen

2011-09-27T20:53:00.000-05:00

So the other day I was talking with a friend, when I felt God urging me to share a specific struggle in my life with this person. My first response was "No! Not her God." I continued to feel the Lord urging me to let my guard down and open up, but I kept my foot on the break and finally said "anyone but her God." Thirty minutes later, I wrestled long enough and was faced with this from the Lord. "You may not trust her yet, but do you trust Me, because that is the true issue here!" And then this was the double whammy - "Do you believe that I have good things for you?"

With that, I went to my friend and shared my heart with her, and I was overwhelmingly blessed by her insight and conversation! We laughed together, we cried and I left so encouraged by the wisdom that was spoken to me that day!

So I encourage you to listen to the Lord prompting you! He does have good things in mind for you! I promise!

2011-09-27T20:44:00.001-05:00

Today is Day 1 of Phase 2 of my 30 day workout challenge. Basically a month ago, I decided to challenge myself to move every day for 30 days. Whether it was a hard-core Insanity workout or a long run or simply playing tag with the kids, I wanted to get my heart rate up every day.

Well, I didn't meet the challenge. In fact, I only "moved" 15 out of 30 days, which is why my weight didn't change this month.

I'm starting up the challenge again with the commitment to follow through! I had a great 25 minute workout today while watching reruns on Lifetime.

I have never struggled to lose weight like I am struggling right now. I can use all the help I can get! So if you too are wanting to get in shape and lose a few pounds, follow along with me on this journey to get in shape and get skinny! :)

Paul

2011-09-20T07:41:00.002-05:00

I've been reading in the book of Acts for a while now, going thru a reading plan with our children's ministry volunteers. I've never been much for reading plans, because I don't like being told what to do, but this time, I submitted. As I'm slowly making my way through the book (we're also reading Proverbs), the main point I keep focusing on is how specifically God spoke to Paul and directed his life. Paul lived what I think modern-day believers would call "a spirit-led life".

For quite some time now, I've prayed "Lord, I want to live a Spirit-led life. I want you to direct my plans, my conversations, my actions, my heart." And to some extent, I've seen Him answer that prayer in my life. But today, Jesus spoke to me while I was reading Acts 18, and the truth just sort of set me free and changed my prayer. Here's the gist of it:

"Sara - I AM leading your life. My Spirit lives inside of you. I lead you and speak to you ALL OF THE TIME. You just have to listen to Me. Stop asking me to speak to you - I already am doing that!"

Oh snap. That's some truth that I need to hear this morning. Jesus does speak to us all the time. He directs our lives. He brings people into my life every day whom He wants me to speak to, encourage and love on. He has equipped me to serve Him, and He promises to be with me wherever I go. That's the truth.

So now I understand why I keep reading about Paul's travel plans. Paul did everything that Jesus asked him to do. He didn't try to rationalize it away or justify why he should get his own way. His heart was in a position, a posture, to simply obey.

"Give me faith to Trust what You say....."

Tomorrow

2011-08-14T21:50:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow morning, Lucas starts his first day of "real" school! This ain't preschool folks! This is the big leagues and I'm overwhelmed! Thankfully, Lucas is blissfully unaware of the daunting 16 years ahead of him (yes, I'm counting college!). We met his teacher over the weekend, Mrs. Judy, and we all were very impressed! Word on the Kindergarten street is she is the teacher everyone wants to get! She greeted Lucas with an offer for a handshake or hug; he chose hug. They both love reptiles and bugs and watching Discovery Channel. I think it's a match made in Heaven. (Well, I have been praying for her for the last 6 months!)

We're off to bed, rather late tonight. I had to watch the finale of "Next Food Network Star" because I love it! Favorite show of the summer, every summer! I also made my first attempt at Matt's birthday cake! I think the flavor is spot on, but the whole thing fell apart while I was icing it, so now it's more of a spooned dessert then a slice-able cake.

Six o'clock is coming way too early, so I should head to bed. Please join us as we pray for Lucas tomorrow. I'm believing that he will be a light to the boys and girls in his class, and that he will remember at least half of what we've taught him! Please also pray with us for our house to sell!

Hello, again!

2011-08-12T13:50:00.002-05:00

I wish that I could freeze time for just a little while. I want to savor this wonderful season in our lives just a little longer without anyone else having a birthday, out growing shoes, and needing a new pair of pants! The month of August is "birthday" month here in the Alexander household, which means my baby is now 1 and our princess has turned 3. The king of the house will be celebrating another year next week, but I'll refrain from telling you just how old he is! (Okay, I'll tell you that he won't be 35 any more!)

The end of the summer is bringing about such bittersweet days as we prepare for Lucas to start Kindergarten next week! So far, neither one if us has cried yet, but the first day of school just might change that!

Wyatt has become very skilled at cruising furniture and "walking" with his walker. I know it won't be long before he is running after his big brother and sister! Wyatt's birthday meant so much to me as the chapter of intense babying came to a close and a new chapter of baby/toddler begins. I am so thankful to be out of the exhausting sleep training/ nursing phase and onto the exploration, learning phase of Wyatt's life. Just this week he has learned how much fun he has pulling all my books off the shelf! He also finds food a'la floor to be very tasty!

Ava is on the cusp of letting her sassiness all hang out and I'm terrified! I remember those 3 year old tantrums from Lucas and like a frightening summer storm, Ava let us know she has it in her just yesterday! Prayers for our sanity would be appreciated!

I feel like or at least hope so, that I've grown a little too this summer. I'm learning about God's faithfulness in teaching me lessons over and over until I finally catch on! I'm also learning the joy of obeying Him, even if it takes me a while to surrender! My parenting skills are being stretched as a shift has happened in my focus on parenting Lucas's heart and not just his behavior. It's pretty exciting and exhausting! I've quickly realized that "apart from God, I can do NOTHING!"

Our church is growing by leaps and bounds! I'm amazed, thankful and peace-filled in knowing that God has allowed us to be a part of this movement! What a loving, faithful God we serve!

Happy Friday everyone! I pray you have a blessed weekend! And if you get a chance, please check out this blog and pray for baby Jude!

Our Week

2011-07-30T20:08:00.003-05:00

Tonight I danced in Wyatt's room, his warm, cuddly body snuggled in my arms. And I sang to him one of my favorite songs. I just love that little boy so much! We put him to bed over an hour ago, but the little stinker wanted to play, so I let him! I would have never done that with Lucas! Oh, how I have changed! My Mom keeps telling me that I will be more slack with the third child, and I guess she is right!

We've had such a busy, wonderful and exhausting week! It started with dear, precious friends from our home town coming for a visit. What a gift it was to spend time with a family that we love so much! My Mom and sister Melanie came down with Melanie's girls and we had so much fun, all squeezed into our apartment! Mom, Melanie and I even scored some girl time downtown thanks to my favorite babysitter! Thursday, my wonderful in-laws came down and we all celebrated (early) Ava and Wyatt's birthday!

It was a wonderful party, the perfect blend of princess pink and baby boy blue. I'm overwhelmed with the reality that our baby is turning 1! I miss his littleness, but I love that he's still such a snuggle bunny!

We spent Friday at the Aquarium with Matt's parents and it was so much fun! Thanks to my wonderful in-laws, we get to go back there anytime we want for the next year! We ate an early dinner at Mellow Mushroom (amazing!) and then treated the kids to some frozen yogurt! I just love how those places are everywhere these days! Truly one of my favorite treats!

We are all pretty wiped out, but it's a good feeling. Our hearts are full after such great quality time with people we love! We are so blessed!

Prayers

2011-07-25T06:53:00.003-05:00

We are in the midst of the long process of trying to sell our home back in Anderson. Would you please join us as we pray bold prayers? We had an open house yesterday, and from what our realtor told us, two families seemed very interested. Our house has been for sale for a long time now, and it's been easy to forget about it since it's over 3 hours away. But this month, God has been impressing upon my heart, through reading about the Israelites in Genesis and Exodus, that He desires for me to be painfully aware of our situation so that I will RUN to Him in our time of need.

Because denial is not the same thing as peace.

Just as the Lord delivered his people from difficult situations in the old Testament, I believe that He will deliver us. The Lord allowed His people to live in slavery for quite a while in Egypt, but the Bible is very clear that He heard their cries for help and He can to their rescue.

Matt and I are confident in God's calling to Charleston to be apart of NewSpring Charleston! This calling has brought so much JOY and PEACE into our lives! So with that confidence, we are praying that God will release us from our house in Anderson and allow us to buy a home here!

Please join us as we pray for God to bring the right people to our home - and soon! Actually, I'm praying the right family has already seen our home and is just waiting while they get their finances in order! I'm praying we will hear news this week - an offer - and we will have a signed contract by the end of the week!

I have no desire to put God in a little box or limit His plans. I truly have no idea how and when He is going to sell our home. But I do know all that He's been teaching me through His Word and I am confidant in HIS FAITHFULNESS!!! I'm not praying out of desperation or a good imagination. I'm praying out of my conviction that the Lord HEARS our cries and will move Heaven and Earth to take care of His Children.

My confidence is not in my plans or feelings; my confidence is in the Lord and His Sovereignty.

Please pray boldly with us!

One More....

2011-07-19T20:23:00.002-05:00

I can't believe I forgot to share this link. It's the most important, bestest one! :) Please read this if you're a Mommy or if you love a Mommy! It's SOoooo good!

Motherhood is a Calling

A few Links

2011-07-19T20:10:00.003-05:00

I want to share a few links of things that I'm enjoying on the web right now:

The Art of Losing Myself - I just found this blog tonight and I am so touched by the beautiful writing and this girl's passion to serve Jesus. Make sure you scroll down and read about Esther! Our God is SO good!

Knock you Naked Brownies - I want to try these, like yesterday!

This is my new, favorite photography blog. I know them from Anderson, sorta. Well, Matt does. And they are A.MA.ZING!!

And this is one of my favorite sites to read when I need encouragement!

My week

2011-07-15T20:24:00.004-05:00

My Lucas and Ava came home today after 5 days at Grandma's house. They are happy, healthy and tired after a great week with some one whom they love so so much! Can I just say how blessed I am to have such a selfless, compassionate Momma who gives and gives out of her overflowing heart?!

I spent the week enjoying our quiet home, working on little projects like scrapbooking, and organizing under the bathroom sink! Matt and I went out several times with Wyatt, running errands that would normally result in frustrated kids and parents. We even went kayaking for several hours as an "anniversary trip"!

It was a great week.

But I am SO happy to have my family back together again. The kids are asleep in their beds tonight, right where they should be. This week has been such a special time for me as I got (uninterrupted) time to read my Bible and pray, and really hear what God has to say to me.

I'm reading in the book of Genesis right now, going over the stories I've heard since I was a little girl in Sunday school. Stories about Abraham and Sarah, Lot and his pillar of salt wife, Jacob and Esau. But I can't stop thinking about Joseph. I keep thinking about how he must have felt as a young teenage boy when his brothers sold him to strangers. Can you even imagine? I can't.

As you probably already know, things got better for dear Joseph when he gained employment with Potipher, but a short while later he found himself in bondage again, this time in a jail, after being wrongfully accused of rape! I'm sure Jo-jo spent many nights asking God about His "so called plans" for his life! The story continues with some awesome events that land Joseph in the second highest ranked position in his country where he gets to use his power to protect, provide and ultimately minister to the masses and his family. Yes, he was reunited with those dear brothers who blinded by jealousy tried to get rid of him!

Through it all, I'm just struck by the Sovereignty of God. The trustworthy hand of God moving and shaping Joseph's life. I love that our God sees the big picture when my view is so, so small. I love that I can trust Him regardless of the circumstances around me. And you can too!

Sunday

2011-07-10T20:18:00.003-05:00

I haven't blogged in the past few days because I've been rather cranky and I couldn't find anything nice to blog about! I feel scattered and frustrated and down right irritable. My sour disposition naturally effects the kids, so there's been more fighting and temper tantrums then normal. I think my bad mood simply boils down to discontentment. Discontentment with myself and how I handle (or don't handle) situations with the kids and food.

That's two separate things - not kids and their food - but kids behavior and my own food issues.

I just read a wonderful blog post on my friend Molly's page and I just have to share it with you! Molly is someone I've admired and respected since I met her at the YMCA waterpark several years ago! She has a beautiful perspective on life and raising children. I hope you enjoy her post has much as I did!

I'm also going to take her idea and tweak it for my blog. Instead of sharing 10 photos from my day, because I do not have her talent, I'm just going to make a list of 10 moments in my day that I am thankful for! And I'm going to start with today, because I had a terrible attitude for most of it and I'm certain good things happened that I totally missed, so here goes!

1. I got to go to church today. Seriously, I love my church!
2. There were no temper tantrums as we got ready this morning to go to church!
3. Lucas had such a great time at church, he got upset when I told him it was time to leave!
4. Ava sang the "fruits of the Spirit" song and got them right!
5. The sense of community and friendship I feel every time I'm at church!
6. I got a 20 minute cat nap this afternoon!
7. Wyatt took a really long afternoon nap!
8. Ava took a nap after threatening to "never go to sleep!"
9. Lucas offered to help me clean the kitchen!
10. Matt took the big kids so I could talk to my Momma on the phone in peace!

There you go! All things that I am thankful for!

Mr. W.T.

2011-07-07T16:13:00.003-05:00

Our Wyatt is 11 months old today! My heart is so full just thinking about all he means to me! To our whole family! When Matt and I first got married, we knew that we both wanted kids. Matt said he wanted two kids and he wanted his first to arrive before he was 30! (Matt turned 28 a month after we were married!) I said I wanted 4 kids, but only after a few years of marriage.

(As you can see, I won that argument and we are stopping at 3!)

Fast forward many years later and our third child is about to turn 1!!! My mind is totally blown away by God's amazing plan for our lives! Are you kidding me? He totally gave us these three beautiful kids and He trusts us to raise them up! I'm just humbled and so, so grateful!

So let me tell you about Wyatt for just a few minutes! Wyatt is a hoot! He loves to laugh, clap his hands, wave good-bye, and pull-up on anything and everything! He especially loves to pick things up and put them in his mouth! He's like my little "roomba"! I have to watch him like a hawk or he will find his next meal under the table! It's pretty funny though, when Wyatt finds a foam "bullet" that belongs to Lucas and crawls around the house with it in his mouth! It looks like a little cigar! And he LOVES those bullets! They are his favorite chew-toy!

Wyatt is my cuddle-bug! He has been this way from the beginning! I get snuggles and hugs from him all day long! He also is wildly popular in the church nursery! Wyatt is crazy about his brother and sister! He and Lucas often get into "trouble" for giggling in their room after dark! I try hard to be stern, but it's just so adorable and sweet!

Wyatt's favorite game is passing a ball back and forth! He claps his hands and giggles every time he passes it to me! I'm trying to teach him the word "ball", but we aren't there yet! I'm also trying to teach him the sign for "please", and so far he just smiles at me when I do it!

He eats like a horse and loves to stuff as many cheerios in his mouth at one time as he can! I love how he is the opposite of dainty! He's eating table food and so far hasn't rejected anything we've given him. Wyatt particularly likes pancakes, pasta, and peas!

As you can tell, I'm crazy about my Mr. Wyatt Thomas, as I so affectionately call him! I can't help but brag about him! And honestly, I think it helps me be a better Momma when I'm focused on the positives characteristics in my kids instead of all the annoying and frustrating things they do! But that's for a different blog post all together! :)

Fun Times

2011-07-02T07:06:00.003-05:00

In our family, Fridays are our family day, since Matt is off from work! We like to do something fun, something a little different. Last night, we headed out to Blackbeard's Cove for an evening of pure fun! For a low flat rate, we played miniature golf, drove gocarts, and played on jumpy castles for hours! And we even got a pizza and drinks included in the fee!

It was so much fun watching Lucas's face as he got to race with Daddy! Ava couldn't miss out on the fun, so we girls took on the challenge and had a blast on the race track! My favorite part of the evening was watching Ava play put-put golf! Her technique was consistent and fool-proof. She would hit the ball once, then pick it up and place it 1 inch from the hole and knock it in! She "won" every time!!

We left Mt. Pleasant sweaty, exhausted, happy and slap-worn out! We will definitely be back for Family Fun Night!

Somethin's burnin' in the kitchen!

2011-07-01T13:30:00.002-05:00

Summer television is simple terrible, in my humble opinion. The only show I'm following is MasterChef and I love it!! Home cooks competing for money and a cookbook! So fun! I have to say though as the main cooker in my home, that I am not nearly as talented and knowledgeable as the folks on this show! Seriously, the judges demand so much of them!

There's something about drama in the kitchen that draws me in every time!! I can't get enough of cooking competitions!

Learning

2011-06-30T07:21:00.002-05:00

"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." Proverbs 15:1.

Yesterday, I took the kids out to run errands for a couple hours. Normally I limit our time out, even taking multiple trips instead of one long day of errands; but we needed to hit several places, so I decided to go for it! At our second stop, Lucas freaked out and I did not stay calm. Instead, I snapped at him! And just like scripture says, my harsh words stirred up his anger , and the rest of the trip was frustrating for the both of us.

I'm struggling with being consistently gentle with my words, especially in stressful situations. Yesterday I was so worked up about our experience that I couldn't hear God's voice speaking to me about the condition of my heart. Thankfully our God is faithful and continued to speak to me this morning when He lead me to this verse in Proverbs.

Funny thing is, not five minutes after I read that verse, and while I was still marinating on it, I got the opportunity to try it out, when the curtains where pulled off the wall in Ava's room!! The verse really does work - and I have a feeling I will get to try it out many more times today!!

Friends

2011-06-28T07:14:00.003-05:00

Last night, we had some little friends over from next door. The kids had a blast using playdough and just being silly. I loved the company because I got to cook dinner in peace! (Isn't that all that a mommy wants?) While I was busy burning the cornbread, I hear this conversation:

Lucas - "Do you know about God?"
Friend - "Yes!"
Lucas "Do you love God?"
Friend - "Yes! I have a Holy Bible!"
Lucas - "My Mommy has one. She reads it all the time!"
Friend - "I read my Bible!"
Lucas - "That's great!"

I love how Lucas is getting so bold sharing his faith and talking with his friends about God! Very cool moment!

A holy moment, interrupted!

2011-06-27T05:49:00.002-05:00

We stayed home yesterday; my Ava is sick with a cold, so we decided to stay in and not take her germs to church. But I missed it so much!! I truly do love going to church each week! I'm blown away and so thankful for the community I've found with the wonderful people I serve with in KidSpring! And I just love the service each week!

So - I decided to watch the service online so I wouldn't miss going to church! I have to smile when I think about how I can't separate "Mommyhood" from any part of my life! I turned the t.v. on for the big kids, then took the laptop into my room so I could have church! Of course, Wyatt woke up from his first nap pretty soon into the preaching so I got him up to feed him. My computer kept crashing which watching Perry, so I finally gave up, and turned on some worship music so I could continue to pray and listen to God's voice. Just as the moment was getting "holy", I felt a very warm and wet sensation spreading down my leg! Oh yes, Wyatt's diaper leaked and I was soaked! My frustration quickly turned into laughter as I realized just how beautiful and silly my life truly is!

A big thank you to those who left comments on a previous post, reminding me how much God cares about my motives, especially when life gets in the way! My desire is to see our home as my mission field. Whether I'm changing dirty diapers, or breaking up squabbles or making a pb and j for the umptenth time, I want to serve with a joy-filled heart, knowing that I am exactly where God wants me to be! It is so hard for me to do that. I get lonely and frustrated being home full time. It's so easy for me to get discouraged and frustrated with the day to day process of raising the kids. I'm learning to pray daily for God's strength and peace and love to flow through me, because on my own, I fail.

He's so patient with me and so quick with his kindness. Just yesterday, I was feeling so tired and stir crazy and I started taking it out on the kids. My dear Lucas just looked at me and said, "Mom, you're starting to yell at us!". God does speak through our children!

Still here

2011-06-25T20:10:00.002-05:00

I'm feeling rather frazzeled tonight. My day started off great with a KidSpring rehersal, but then I was ambushed by a terrible tension headache! Tonight I have been frantically trying to salvage my pound cake (which is supposed to be a birthday cake for a friend) after the top half separated from the bottom half! I decided to make a chocolate butter cream icing as an additional topping in hopes that no one will notice that the cake slices are half their normal size!

Right now I'm watching one of my all time favorite movies, Pride and Prejudice. The music, dialogue and subtlety is simply enchanting! This movie is the reason I plan on taking up the piano again just as soon as we get it out of storage and into a house!

Three days into my new goal setting and I am blogging more, yelling less, and eating too much.

Here's to good intentions!

Early mornings.....

2011-06-24T07:06:00.003-05:00

Well my day certainly has not started the way I had hoped it would! Well, let me rephrase that and say it started way earlier then I had hoped! Ava, Lucas, and Wyatt were all up at 5:50 this morning!! Ava had a sleepover last night in the boys' room, so they were all up searching for Ava's paci which had fallen under the bed! (Okay, Wyatt wasn't so much searching as he was crying because he was hungry!)

So my plan to get up before the kids and have some time with Jesus didn't happen. Thankfully the Lord reminded me an hour later when I did get time with Him, after I had fed Wyatt and my amazing hubby surprised me with breakfast in bed, that "His Grace is Sufficient!" and that "I am saved by faith, not works!". My prayer is that my heart will hear His voice throughout the day as I am busy about my work!

When do you moms of little ones find time to read your Bible and pray? Most of the time, I do it while Wyatt is taking his morning nap and the big kids are watching t.v.; I want to give God the first of my day, but it's a true struggle for me to get up before the kids. Any advice?

On a completely unrelated note, I also could use some advice on getting rid of Ava's paci! She is only allowed to have it while she is sleeping, but I'm afraid of the drama and lack of sleep that is coming when I take it away for good! I followed 'the rules' and had Lucas's paci gone by 18 months, but it's been harder with Ava. I guess I felt bad taking away something that is so comforting to her when her world had already changed so much with a new baby brother and a new home.

Her bite is being affected, or so says the dentist, so it is time to do the right thing and take it away! Any tips?

Well it's time to face this morning with Joy and Peace knowing that God is with me and that He loves me because of Who He Is! I hope your day will be full of the same Grace!! Let me know how I can be praying for you!

My personal challenge

2011-06-23T20:51:00.004-05:00

Isn't there a saying like "it takes 21 days to make or break a habit"? Well, whatever it is, I'm making today day 1 of habitual blogging! That's right - I'm going to blog for the next 21 days straight! Not sure what I will write about, but that's okay because I'm building the habit.

I'm also using the next 21 days to break a nasty little habit of over eating. My eating got way out of control while I was pregnant with Super Wy, and I've struggled the past 10 months to break the habit! So now I'm focusing on smaller portions and not eating late a night!

Hmm...I'm sure I can come up with more habits to break and or make in the next 21 days......

Going to bed early! That's a good one! Oh and getting up early to read the Bible before my little ones wake me up! I struggle with both - lacking the discipline to turn the t.v. off at 10 and then setting the alarm to get up before the kiddos wake us up!

Keeping on contact, via email/fb/phone/snail mail with friends - near and far. I have many dear, wonderful friends and I know how much their words of encouragement mean to me, so it's time to start giving the love back.

How about not yelling at my kids? That's a great habit to break! Gosh, I wish there was a pill that I could take that would eat away my daily frustrations and keep me cool and calm all the time! (Well, I guess there is one, but we won't go there..... :P)

And last but not least, my final 21 day goal is to finish a book by Dr. James Dobson - something I have never done before!!

Mr. LD

2011-05-03T14:53:00.003-05:00

My little boy is not so little anymore. Lucas no longer wants me to kiss every bump and bruise. He doesn't climb into my lap anymore or ask me to lay down with him at night. Instead, we play the Wii together and go on adventure walks around the neighborhood. We discuss things like lizards, and superheros and race cars. My boy can play in the pool without me and pick out his clothes and brush his teeth, thank you very much!

He even gets his sister out of her car seat now without me asking him for help!

Lucas is tender-hearted, inquisitive, competitive, loving, and very, very silly. He loves to make me laugh with knock-knock jokes, crazy dance moves and general foolery. He drives me crazy with his drive to be the best, always wanting to be heard, recognized, and the leader. He wants to know "why" and "how" and "when" about everything.

Lucas loves chocolate, just like his Grandma. He's an "appetite" and often finds himself "hydewated". He knows how to find the Disney channel in the mornings and will fix breakfast for himself and Ava if I'm still in bed feeding Wyatt. He doesn't even come get me first! When Ava calls out in the morning, Lucas gets her up, fixes poptarts and turns on the television all by himself.

He's obsessed with the lizards that lives at our apartment complex. He is convinced that he is going to catch one and keep it! (I know otherwise) and he knows that he can get a pet snake "when he is forty!" He is also obsessed with Scooby Doo! I can thank "Shaggy" for teaching my son to say "ridiculous" 100 times a day! He still plays with trains and match box cars, only they now have complex plot lines and on going stories.

My Lucas Danner is a very special little boy. I have no idea what he is going to grow up to become (a race car driver? an astronaut? a doctor? a zoologist?), but I'm so honored that I get to watch him grow!

Nothing but Randomness

2011-05-02T21:37:00.004-05:00

My house is so quiet right now. I can hear the childrens' noise machines coming from their bedrooms. The television is off. Matt is out with a friend and I'm not ready to go to bed. Tonight I got to hang out with three sweet little girls in addition to my precious brood. The house was full of laughter, toys and happy children. Now they are all asleep.

It's funny to me how people always say "wow, you get to live in Charleston!" when in truth we live 30 minutes away from downtown and hardly ever go there. I went downtown on Friday for lunch with a friend and a quick stop to pick up a birthday present and it took me 4 hours with driving, traffic and parking. And I shelled out 4 dollars for parking!

I'm back on my granola kick! I made a double batch today! I heart granola. Especially with yogurt and berries! My all time favorite breakfast! Did you know that granola is good on ice cream? It makes a wonderful topping! You should try it sometime!

I'm going swimming tomorrow for the first time since last summer. I'm terrified to put on my swimsuit. I have no idea if it will even fit but I refuse to buy a bigger one!

I am still battling the terrible habits I picked up during my last pregnancy of overeating and no will power! I could kick myself for giving in to every preggo craving and for not working out! It is so much harder to lose the baby weight the third time around! Wyatt is almost 9 months old and I still have 20 pounds to lose - not to mention the additional 15 pounds of "Sara" weight that needs to go!

Speaking of my adorable son, Wyatt has become a little vacuum cleaner as he crawls all over the house now! I am constantly swiping my finger in his mouth and finding bits and pieces he's put in there! The little stinker!

As difficult as it has been, moving to a new city, living in apartment, raising three kids, this season in life is not the hardest season I've ever experienced. That thought is very reassuring to me, oddly enough. Losing my Daddy at the age of twenty, then becoming a wife and Mommy without him watching, is the hardest thing thus far. The scars, both physical and emotional that came with the Endometriosis diagnosis, also knocked me down hard.

Sometimes a girl just needs her Daddy.

Drowning in digital photos

2011-04-11T21:55:00.003-05:00

In our bedroom, there are 6 boxes stacked at the foot of our bed. I like to think of them as a "foot board". Not really. These are boxes that we simply can't figure out what to do with. One is a box of clothes that I can't fit into yet. I'm still working on losing the "baby weight", while several other boxes contain scrapbook supplies, multiple photo albums, and an untold amount of photos that need to be put into an album.

I am simply terrible with keeping up with family photos!

The task is so overwhelming to me, I try not to think about it very often, let alone do something about it! Last year I made a pathetic attempt to stay on top of our 2010 family album. At the end of each month, I printed about roughly 20 photos capturing the joys and everyday moments of our lives, and I carefully put them into an album, complete with captions and dates.

I got through the month of April before stopping and never returning to the project. I pulled the album back out over the weekend, and it is currently residing on our coffee table, taunting me with it's lack of photos. I don't know if it's the tedious task of uploading the photos to a printing site or the overwhelming job of sorting them and labeling them once they arrive, that keep me from doing anything at all.

I love looking through photos albums. I would much rather do that then watch a slide show on the computer, even if it is set to terrible elevator music, so I am determined to get over myself and make family photo albums!!!

To be honest, I sometimes wish I could scrap the digital camera and go back to the "old days" when I was limited to 24 prints per roll, which I would drop off at Wal-mart and pick up in an hour! You had to make each photo count because once you ran out of prints, it was over and you had to buy more film. Nowadays, I'm bombarded with too many photos of the same thing, giving me one more step in this frustrating process of sorting, decision-making, and organizing.

Is there anyone out there who feels the same way that I do? Or are you all just rolling your eyes and smirking at me??

Don't even get me started about the countless pieces of adorable scrapbook paper I've bought over the years and never used! I was not made to be a scrappy, eh scrapbook-er? God bless you if you are, but I simply don't care if my photos are lined up perfectly or if the border is cutesy and creative.

If you are gifted in this area and would like to gift me with your time and talent, please do so! I need to be rescued from my inadequacies!

At Home

2011-04-04T20:31:00.003-05:00

Tonight, Ava helped me make baby food for Wyatt! Green beans and sweet potatoes! Over the years, I have found that making my own baby food is not only cost effective, it's super easy! Seriously, I popped a few sweet potatoes in the oven for an hour, blended them up in my mini-food chopper, and here they are!

I like to store my baby food in canning jars! They are just so pretty! Green peas, which I buy frozen and them steam, are the prettiest! A gorgeous shade of green!

This is just one way I try to be resourceful and save money for our family. I'm so passionate about being a stay at home mom, and I'm willing to do what I can to contribute to our family. I'm honored that my husband supports my passion and works so hard so I can be with our kids.

Couponing is another way I feel like I "earn income" for our family. I am by no means a super-couponer, but on average I try to save 50% at the grocery store.

I truly believe with all my heart that if you too want to be a stay at home mom, it is possible. You have to be willing to focus on what's truly important and not get distracted by things that feel important in the moment. It's all about a change in perspective and a willingness to do what it takes to make it happen.

I wouldn't trade my time at home with Lucas, Ava, and Wyatt for a million dollars. I was fortunate enough to be raised by a Mom who stayed home full time and for that, I am eternally grateful. I believe that our time together while I was growing up directly impacts how close we are today. I treasure the memories of her picking me up from school, with a freshly made snack waiting in the car, talking about my day all the way home. My Mom was (and still is) a great listener, and I told her (almost) everything! :)

My prayer is that my time at home, while grueling and mundane at times, will reap huge rewards one day. I'm so thankful for this time to nurture, mold and invest into my children.

Ava's Story

2011-04-01T21:22:00.003-05:00

Since Lucas was a toddler, I've been making up stories for him, either before bed or whenever I needed to keep his attention and I was too tired to play trains. Our stories typically revolve around whatever interests him at the time, so we've covered snakes, dinosaurs, Buzz Lightyear, and "kill-off" whales. Our stories almost always include the same set of special friends, Sammy, Jenny, Lightbulb, Flashlight, and Flipflop. Sammy and Jenny are ducks and I'm not sure what the other three characters are supposed to be! This crazy crew has gone on quite a few adventures and typically gets into a lot of trouble!

What I love the most about storytelling with Lucas is watching his imagination take off as he creates story lines and plots. His creativity knows no limits as he artfully crafts his stories! I love praising him and seeing that innocent joy on his face as he soaks it in!

Tonight, as I was getting Lucas and Ava ready for bed, I told a story about a princess, a prince, and a dancing T-Rex named "T-diddy". They laughed as their characters sang songs and played the drums while befriending the grumpy giant next door.

Much to my delight, Ava asked if she could make up a story! This was the first time she's ever asked! Here is Ava's story! (I'll do my best to recreate it for you!)

"Once upon a time, there was a princess who lived in the forest with her beautiful ponies. A bad monster came and ate the ponies. The ponies were sad so Princess Ava sang them a song, and they were happy. Their feet were broken and they couldn't walk. The End."

Isn't that just adorable!?! My girl has a great imagination! I'm so excited to start this new chapter of creativity with Ava! Typically she asks for one of two different Bible stories at night - Jonah or Jesus's Birthday. My favorite part of Jesus's birthday is when Ava says, "He was born in a dirty barn!"

Can you tell I'm enjoying Mommyhood!?!

The "real" me

2011-03-29T21:02:00.004-05:00

So I feel like it's only fair if I write another post about my day. A non-lovey-dovey- day. A day when I forget to take a shower, or even go to the bathroom. Or how about a day when I do get to take a shower, but not alone. Instead I have one kid in the shower with me, while the other is causing mischief and another is crying. Forget shaving my legs or washing my hair. It's a quick wash, rinse, get out and start referee-ing.

Or how about a day when the kids watch way too much t.v., and I secretly eat any and all snacks in the house, until the kids catch me and want to know why I ate all of the goldfish.

Oh this is a good one - I'm at the grocery store and only realize after I get back in the car, that I forgot to brush my teeth or take off last night's make up, and what in the heck is going on with my hair today? My clothes are frumpy, because my baby weight prevents me from fitting into my cute clothes, and I wear flats all the time because my feet hurt every night.

The kids are yelling and fighting and crying, loudly. I'm yelling and crying, again. Matt comes home to a short-tempered, critical woman who forgets that she is a wife first and mom second and cranky children who again, watched way too much t.v.

Please don't think that my life is always rosey and perfect because it is far from it. Thankfully, there are amazing, sugar-coated days mixed into the chaos, and those days are full of joy!

Almost every time I go out, some stranger says to me, "Wow, you have your hands full!" And for the most part, I can honestly respond back and say, "Yes, I do! But they are really good kids, so it's okay! We're having a good time!"

I want our kids to see Jesus in me. I want them to be drawn to Jesus because of me. And so they get all of me - the good and the bad. I have to apologize to them at least once a week for losing my temper and raising my voice. (Some weeks, I'm saying sorry once a day!) And so I pray and pray some more and read my Bible for wisdom and guidance as I navigate this crazy, exhausting world as a stay at home mom.

2011-03-15T15:37:00.002-05:00

Our day has this sort of beautiful rhythm to it. I wake up to the sound of Wyatt babbling in the baby monitor, so I quietly bring him back to bed with me where I get to snuggle and enjoy a long, lazy feeding. Lucas and Ava typically get up during that time and either play, watch t.v., or snuggle on the bed with us. I particularly like it when they snuggle and all of us are in the bed. Kind of reminds me of a children's book..... "Five Little Monkey's Jumping on the Bed". Definitely my favorite time of day.

The day starts to simmer as I brew coffee for myself, make the kids breakfast and Matt gets ready for work. Our morning schedule kind of varies and depends on the weather, the amount of errands I need to run, and the amount of energy the kids are oozing with. One of my favorite moments of the day (and it doesn't happen every day), is when I'm busy about the house and I can hear the kids playing in their rooms. Wyatt loves to watch Lucas as he creates a fantasy world with his matchbox cars. Ava is usually busy taking care of a particular baby doll or stuffed animal who needs her attention. She loves to gather together a purse, bottle, and a baby to play house while wearing high heels!

I flit in and out of their rooms, putting up laundry, making beds and emptying trashcans. All is right with the world. No one is yelling. No one is snatching toys. No one is crying. I can almost hear a beautiful melody playing in the back ground. Like the melody on Pride and Prejudice (the new one).

I'm so thankful for these moments and countless others where I am presently aware of how blessed I am. I have three beautiful, healthy children and a husband who loves me. Our challenges pale in comparison to those who are facing travesties like earthquakes or poverty.

I can not begin to wrap my mind around such devastation as what is happening in Japan. But I do know that God is still God and God is still good. I am praying for those precious people who have lost everything and I am praying that they will find healing and comfort in the midst of unimaginable loss.

No matter what Matt and I have faced (grief, health problems, financial stress, tension, relocation), we both still know that God is good. Without a personal relationship with Him, I don't know where we could be. Lost, broken, hopeless - for sure.

My life is so simple. But to me, it is simply beautiful.

Thankful

2011-03-14T10:13:00.003-05:00

Today I am thankful:

1. That I can leave our back door open and hear the birds singing
2. That we bought cereal in bulk at Sam's this weekend because Lucas and Ava seem to be perpetually hungry ("I'm an appetite, Mommy!"- Lucas)
3. That I am still nursing Wyatt, even though he's on a strike again and I'm very frustrated!
4. My beautiful new niece Rachel is growing and seems to be a very content baby!
5. I can meet a friend for a play date in 45 minutes without taking a shower first - and she won't judge me!
6. I get to eat fish tacos tonight with the same dear friend and other precious ladies as we celebrate her birthday.
7. That my children seem to have forgotten that I used Ava's potty in the back of our van in a McDonald's parking lot. (3 children in a public restroom = ewww!!)
8. That our apartment does not have hardwood floors - carpet is so much easier for babies!
9. Lucas still enjoys watching "baby" shows on the Disney Channel with his sister Ava. No scary, boy shows for us - yet!
10. That I got a coupon in the mail for a $6.99 haircut at GreatClips and I'm going to use it for myself!

It's Wednesday!

2011-03-02T08:21:00.004-05:00

I'm in the middle of a very busy week of a very busy season of life. A dear friend from college is getting married this weekend and I'm in the wedding!!! I'm picking up my bridesmaid dress today and buying gifts for a bridal shower that's tonight! It's so much fun being part of a wedding again! The parties, the dress, the shoes (oh the shoes!!), getting my nails done, all the excitement! And yes, those heels are almost 4 inches tall!

The kids are doing great, even with my scatter-brained, trying to keep my cool and not yell, attitude. I am savoring this final year with Lucas at home. My Momma heart is sad knowing that kindergarten is just around the corner. He's so smart and so observant. Just now he informed me that a particular show on Disney Junior is "teaching kids to not use their manners! They never say please or thank you, Mom! It's not good!" We've been cruising through a workbook, and I'm just amazed at how his brain works.

Both Lucas and Ava are memorizing bible verses at church! If I can figure out how to post a video, I will, because you have to hear Ava say Psalm 11:7! It's so adorable! Matt and I have prayed for our children since we first knew about them and it is awesome to see God answering our prayers even at a young age! Both kids are so quick to ask for prayer, whether they have a boo-boo or someone significant pops into their head. Yesterday Ava said we needed to pray after I stumped my toe and spilled my coffee! Her prayer went something like, "Thank you Jesus for Mommy's toe. She spilled her coffee, please help her. Amen"

There are days when I can not imagine doing anything else except being home with our three children. I feel purposeful, passionate, and at peace. But then there are days, when I wish I was doing anything except staying at home with our three children. I'm short-tempered, frustrated, and grumpy. I question God's purpose for me; I doubt my competence as a mom, and I resent being a maid/cook/question-answer-er! I just want to do what I want to do when I want to do it! (I sound like my kids somedays!!)

Today is one of those good days. Of course, it's only 8:39am, but I'm declaring that it's going to be a good day! I read a great post last night about being a more patient Mom - check it out! It was helpful to me!

I hope you have a great day too!

What I am currently not reading.......

2011-02-26T16:27:00.002-05:00

One shelf in the bookcase in our den is dedicated to books that I have started and not finished. I'm embarrassed to say that there are quite a few books on it! If you know me, this shelf should be empty because I love to read and typically devour a book in a day or two! Give me a Karen Kingsbury or Francine Rivers novel, and I will neglect laundry, cleaning, and even sleep to get it finished! I am a Christian Fiction junkie. (Please don't roll your eyes at me!)

It started with Robin Jones Gunn's Christy Miller series back when I was a preteen. I was spellbound by the relationship between Todd and Christy. I then moved on to Lisa Tawn Bergren and Francine Rivers. When Karen Kingsbury burst on to the scene I was obsessed. I've read every single one of her books, many times over.

So you're probably wondering what's sitting on my shelf unread, right? Here's the list:

The Mission of Motherhood
Prayer
Just Walk Across the Room
Discerning the Voice of God
Healing Prayer
Crazy Love
The Sacred Romance
The Treasure Principle
The Purpose Driven Life

All really great books, I'm sure! I have started several of them but never finished! I feel like such a slacker!

I'm just terrible with non-fiction.

SO today I picked (back) up a book that I started a while ago and now am resolved to finish: Bringing Up Girls by Dr. James Dobson. It's a really great book so far! And I'm also trying to finish Love and War by John and Stasi Eleredge. Very good!

So here's to not being a slacker anymore!

Wyatt

2011-02-07T21:28:00.006-05:00

Our Wyatt is 6 months old today! Can you believe it? I sure can't! I can't believe we're here already! He's rolling over, pulling himself to his knees and today he tried his first vegetable! Our little baby is growing so fast! Wyatt has found his voice! He laughs, coos and shrieks with delight! When he sees someone he loves, his smile starts in his eyes, then spreads all the way down to his toes! He smiles with his whole body!

Hooray for green pea puree! He ate it all!

Wyatt has brought a wonderful feeling of completion to our family. He's our caboose! Both Ava and Lucas are crazy about him. They love to hold him, feed him, and they will even throw away his dirty diapers!

Wyatt is fascinated with his feet and hands! They are like constant entertainment! He sleeps on his tummy or side all night long! His head is so soft! I must kiss it at least 200 times a day! This boy is so beautiful and kissable!

I am so thankful that the Lord heard our prayers for another baby and chose to give us Wyatt! He's my joy - my precious baby boy!

Grace

2011-02-05T22:35:00.003-05:00

It's been kind of a crummy day. I'm not going to lie to you. I woke up tired. And my mood went downhill from here. I was snappy with the kids, distant from Matt and just downright ugly. It wasn't until tonight when the house is quiet and everyone else is asleep that I finally got my attitude adjustment.

I struggle with wanting so badly for life to be easy and pretty and rosy all the time. I want my words to always be gentle; for wisdom and creativity to be my constant companions. I want to be diligent in my work as a homemaker and be all that my family needs me to be. For years I have put pressure on myself to be a certain way (i.e. perfect), and then I carried around the disappointment and shame for not meeting up to my own (unrealistic) standards.

It wasn't until this past year when my eyes were opened to the self-destructive path I was on (and still struggle with) that I realized what I was doing to myself and the people around me. I was rejecting grace and withholding it from myself and others. Instead of receiving the (free) gift of grace that covers my short comings, I beat myself up for even needing it in the first place.

Kind of ridiculous, right?

As we are settling into our new lives here in Charleston, I am finding myself in need of a lot of grace. Selfishness, pride, arrogance can quickly change me from an encourager and servant, to a mean Momma who pitches fits like a two year old.

I'm so thankful for my husband and children who love me on the good and bad days.

But even more, I am so thankful for a God who is faithful, and for Jesus who loves me because He is love. I am filled with hope and excitement because I believe with all my heart that God is doing something great here in our lives in Charleston. I have so much to learn and experience and give.

Finding Time for Me

2011-02-04T16:21:00.002-05:00

Everyday I wrestle with wanting more time for myself, by myself. I wake up when the kids get up (before 8:00) and then it's the usual business of the day. The kids exercise along with me, Ava and I take showers together most mornings and since we started potty training, I never get to do that alone either. Most of the time, I'm okay with it my lack of alone time. But there are some days.... some days that I really, really want to be alone. Days when I want to do nothing more then close the bedroom door and curl up in bed with a good book and the t.v. remote.

Growing up, I can remember sitting in the bathroom talking to my Momma while she was in the bathtub. Poor lady! I had no idea that she probably wanted just a few minutes to herself! She was never alone because someone was always talking with Momma. (She's a really great listener!)

Naptime is no longer alone time for me, since Wyatt is on a different schedule from Ava and Lucas no longer naps. I do require Lucas to stay in his room for an hour to play by himself, but he would much rather spend that time with me. If I do get an hour alone, I usually waste it watching t.v and eating my favorite snack, graham crackers and chocolate chips. I have to do something that requires nothing from me. Lucas often sneaks in and begs me to spend time with him. I hate telling him to go back to his room, because how do I explain to him that I need time for myself?

This is a very special season in my life, one that I'm trying to appreciate and savor because it is already going by too fast! I know that one day, the house will be empty and I will miss Lucas begging me to come play and Ava asking to go potty with me. So for now, most days, I'm enjoying my "quality time" with my dear Lucas, Ava and Wyatt!

My Day

2011-02-03T22:45:00.004-05:00

Today I woke up feeling behind. That's never a good start to the day. And I didn't seem to catch up until about 8:00 tonight. (I'm okay with leaving the load of clothes in the dryer overnight.) This is pretty typical for me, being it's a Thursday. Thursdays are now my Fridays and Mondays are my favorite days. Don't ask me why, but I always have more energy, more umph on a Monday.

Cold weather kept us in for most of the day. We did take a walk to the mailboxes at the front of our apartment complex. It's so weird not being able to scurry out of my house in my pjs minutes before the mailman arrives with a bill that's due soon. Not that I did that, too often.

I've never lived in an apartment before. Most of the time I forget that we do. That is until the family who lives above us wakes up at 5:45 - every week day morning - and starts stomping around and rearranging furniture.

As far as apartments go, our place is wonderful! Of course, I have nothing to compare it to, but I do believe that I am right! We have plenty of space for all of our stuff and I love that it is new(er) and not in mid-renovation like our last house!

We took Lucas to his first Karate class tonight, and the boy just loved it! I was afraid he would be disappointed that there wasn't any kicking people in the face, but he was thrilled by the basic moves he learned. I think we may have just found his first hobby.

I can't believe my baby is old enough for this kind of stuff! Our little world has centered around playdates and trips to the park and adventures in our backyard for so long. With Lucas starting school in the fall, I know that life is on the brink of changing. Again.

Don't ya just hate that? I get comfortable with things one way and then it changes again! As my dear hubby said to me just this week, "that's just the ebb and flow of life."

To a new year....

2011-01-08T22:13:00.003-05:00

Um, so yeah. It's January 8th and I'm waiting for my precious hubby to come home so I can go to bed.

I hate going to bed without him.

We've been Charlestonians for a little over a month now. The move happened a few days after Thanksgiving and we're still unpacking. If history repeats itself (and it probably will), there will still be boxes that need to be opened when it's time to move again! Cuz' that's just the way I am!

The kids and I trekked to the Upstate yesterday for an adorable birthday party for an even more adorable little one year old. It was a sweet reunion with dear friends and joy-filled community. We are so blessed.

Tomorrow is the big day. And I do mean BIG! NewSpring Charleston officially starts tomorrow morning!!!! I can't wait to see what God is going to do!

Matt is on his way home! Funny how hard it is to relax when your other half is gone. Goodnight!

Hello Again

2010-10-26T08:57:00.002-05:00

Life has a way of never turning out like I expect it to. I have great expectations, plans of things coming together just-so, but in the end, life is complicated and hard, beautiful and simple. Take this blog for example, long ago I had visions of creating a blog that hundreds of women would read every day. A blog that would reach stay at home moms like myself who need a little encouragement and joy every day. Lofty aspirations that have been knocked down by the reality of life. Finding time to "blog" during the craziness of my daily routine is near impossible - same as finding time to take a shower, brush my hair and put on makeup daily.

Today I'm working on being more flexible. An attitude my dear husband is naturally gifted with, but one that is a constant struggle for me. I had hoped to take the kids to the library for story time today, thinking it would be good for all of us to get out of our pjs and go somewhere. Good intentions, right? But instead, I'm making a third attempt at eating a real breakfast (instead of stuffing my face in between changing diapers and putting out sibling conflict). My coffee has been reheated two times already and will go in the microwave a third time before I actually finish it. I'm still in my pajamas with plans for a shower pushed back until the kids are napping this afternoon. And I've picked up the same bowl of cheerios off the floor twice already. Yes, this life is not my own.

BUT

That's okay. At least in this moment of chaos and beauty, there is peace. In my world, a bump on the head can be soothed with a kiss from Mommy. A box of play dough has captivated my two oldest (giving me the chance to jump on the computer and talk to you!), and my precious Wyatt has given me more than enough smiles and coos this morning to fill my love tank. God has taught me more during this season of change and stress about His faithfulness and steadfast love for me than ever before.

Did you know that we are in the process of moving? We leave in three weeks to start life in a whole new town with new friends and a new adventure. I would be lying if I said I haven't questioned God about the timing of a move with a newborn! We will be moving to a rental property until our house sells, so if you will, please pray that our house will sell quickly. Like this week!

Wyatt is having "tummy time" right now and he is not happy about it. Ava is in time out for yelling at her Bubba after she took his play dough. My coffee has gone cold again and Ava ate all of my breakfast.

One day I will be able to fit back into my prepregnancy clothes. One day, Matt and I will go on a date without the kids. One day, I will get 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep! And I will start putting on makeup every day!

For now I find joy in hearing Ava apologize to Lucas for being mean and hearing him say, "It's okay. I forgive you." My daily life is my ministry. I fail at it all the time, but as God reminded me recently, He loves my children much more than I ever could and He is faithfully working behind the scenes. His grace is sufficient and He is more than enough.

He's here!!

2010-08-16T20:58:00.003-05:00

Wyatt Thomas was born Saturday August 7!!! Weighing in at 8 pounds 1 ounce! Our baby boy is absolutely amazing! He's beautiful, perfect, snuggly, a great eater, happy and laid back! Matt and I are totally in love with him! Pictures are coming soon!

Almost time!!!

2010-08-06T13:25:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was quite the exciting day! After taking Ava to her two year check up and hearing yet again how wonderful she is (I have to brag!), I went to see the OB/Gyn. At 38 weeks, I was anxious to get some good news! And I did! I measured 4 centimeters! Hooray!

After lots of tears and prayers and advice from my doctor, Matt and I have decided to schedule an augmentation for tomorrow morning. In case you don't know what that means, (I didn't until my sister Melanie told me today), an augmentation is when labor stalls and medication is given to keep it going. You see, last night I had contractions for 5 hours, but then they stalled. Today has been much of the same - contractions that won't organize. I think my body needs a little assistance.

So say a prayer for me, as we are about to meet our baby boy! We will post his name and pictures just as soon as we can!!!

By the way, Ava weighs 30 pounds (85%), is 34 inches tall (55%) and continues to have a big head (92%). Her communication is growing by leaps and bounds - full sentences, learning colors, shapes. She can count correctly to 14 and sing her ABC's. She loves to play "house" with her babydolls - feeding them, fixing bottles and rocking them to sleep. She also loves to play dressup and roar like a lion (her favorite animal).

2010-08-04T19:12:00.008-05:00

We celebrated Ava's birthday tonight. Yes, we are one day late, but she doesn't know that. :) Matt and I made a quick trip to Greenville last night to look and almost buy a mini-van. After selling Matt's truck last week, we are in a mad hunt for an affordable, reliable van; my car can't safely hold three carseats in the back.

So that's why we partied tonight!

Ava enjoyed opening up her birthday cards. Thanks to everyone who so thoughtfully sent her a card. It's not too often that baby girl gets any mail. Oh, in case you're wondering, I'm not sure what is up with her socks either! We're gonna have to work on her sense of fashion!

After this shot, the camera battery died. Ava (and Lucas) had a blast playing with her baby doll toys - bathtub, high chair and crib. She also got an adorable 31 bag and some bubbles.

Earlier in the day, we had a bit of a crisis situation. We three were playing outside when Ava stepped on a roof nail which went thru her flipflop and penetrated her foot. After cleaning the wound, I called the doctor and spoke at length with a nurse. Ava's 2 year old check up is tomorrow, so we'll get her injury checked out then.

She's one tough little girl. I think I cried more then she did!

Happy Birthday to our beautiful Ava Grace!

Happy Birthday Ava!!!

2010-08-03T06:43:00.005-05:00

Our baby girl, Ava Grace, is two years old today!!!

Matt and I prayed with joy every night for our precious daughter during the pregnancy. The Lord impressed upon my heart early on to pray that she would be strong.

She came into the world at 2:04p.m. weighing 7 pounds and 8 ounces. She looked just like her brother did - neither one had much hair! Little did we know that our tiny daughter would blossom into an extraordinary, passionate, friendly girl who never meets a stranger and embraces life with full joy! Ava loves people!

I know with all my heart that the Lord has great things in store for this little girl! Our prayer is that she will know the Lord at a young age and that she will follow Him the rest of her life.

Happy Birthday Ava! Mommy and Daddy love you so much! You are such a special, important part of our family! We are so thankful and humbled that God chose us to be your parents! We love you sweetheart - more than you will ever know!

Waiting

2010-08-01T20:59:00.004-05:00

I have to be honest and admit that my attitude during this pregnancy has been less than pleasant. I've felt every ache and pain, and made sure everyone around me heard about it. I gripped about the morning sickness that felt like it would never end. I wished each day would go faster as my tummy grew and I felt more and more discomfort. Each new stretch marked was noticed and complained about. The lack of energy, swollen feet and aching back all gave me ammunition to be a grumpy-gus.

I'm not exactly proud of my attitude. My poor family has put up with a lot. My doctor even reminded me a few appointments back to savor this pregnancy instead of wishing it would go by faster.

So with all this complaining and wishing the negative thoughts away, I had the strangest feelings of sadness today.

It's almost over.

In 16 days or less, I will no longer be pregnant. Never again will I feel a tiny life growing, wiggling, and kicking inside of me. I have had the privilege of being a part of God's creation story for the third and final time. What a humbling honor it has been. A gift. A true miracle.

I'm suddenly regretting my negative attitude and list of complaints. I have to wonder, did I enjoy it enough? Did I savor the thrill and joy of this long journey? I don't know how to answer those questions and others which sift thru my heart; but I do know that over the past 9 months I have fallen in love with a little boy. A little boy whom I will be meeting very soon. And I can't wait to tell him what a miracle he is. I can't wait to rub my cheek against his and whisper how much I love him in his ear. I can't wait to tell him that our God loves him even more than I do.

So for those reasons, I will go to bed tonight wishing that it was time to rush to the hospital and meet our new son.

Reflecting on the Goodness of God

2010-07-28T21:29:00.005-05:00

Tonight I am too wired up from consuming a large amount of Milk Duds and diet (caffeine free) Coke to go to bed. So instead, I want to share an entry from my journal that I wrote back in June. Too often lately I have been so focused on the negative and I forget to dwell in the good. This journal entry is a nice reminder of just how blessed I truly am and where my blessings come from.

*June 2010*

As an early birthday present, I was given an outdoor covered swing. Tonight is my first night to enjoy my gift.

It's funny how I came outside to be quiet - to be alone - something I rarely experience in my daily life. But as my mind and body settle into the comforts of the swing, my ears are totally aware that I am far from being alone.

Squirrels are in the trees above me. Birds are calling all around. Horns are honking in the distance and the voice of our precious daughter is calling "Mommy!" from the screen door. No I am not alone.

Our tiny son has even made his presence known as he settled in with a few rolls and twists that are visible from the outside. Our biggest boy, the one who baffles me with his dual phase of maturity and immaturity, is crying inside the house.

Thankfully I have full confidence in my husband to handle the situation.

Yes, there is calm tonight. Peace in my heart. Joy in my soul. Such a wonderful change from the boredom and restlessness I've struggled against. I am confidant that this new found peace stems from knowing that I am exactly where God wants me, and I am doing what He expects of me - ministering to my family. Serving them physically, emotionally, and spiritually. And that is enough.

I may not be a "missionary" or working for a church ministry, but I am making a difference for the Kingdom of God in the lives of 4 very special people. The work that has been assigned to me is noble and important. I didn't understand or believe this truth for a very long time. I wrestled with feeling like a failure because I haven't served in a foreign land or worked in an "official" ministry position. I thought the Lord was disappointed in me.

I didn't understand that my calling in life really, truly isn't about me at all. It's about Him. And bringing Him glory in whatever season or position He desires for me.

Yes this position is a lot more humble and way less glamorous that I had ever expected, but I am happy.

Long days of Summer

2010-07-28T08:28:00.003-05:00

I'm trying so hard to muster up the energy to take the kiddos somewhere this morning, like the water park or the movies, but I can't seem to find the strength to do it. Aside from dinner at a friend's house last night, we haven't left our home since Sunday! The kids are bored, not that I blame them, and nothing I suggest sounds like fun to them.

Oh wait, I just saw Lucas take some play dough into the kitchen! Hopefully this will hold their attention for at least 20 minutes!

I'm so thankful the kids having formed such a strong friendship between the two of them. They do spend 95% of their time with each other, so it's great they enjoy playing together. Our play dates with friends have dwindled because I simply don't have the energy to go on a play date. (I am happy to send them off to a friend's house for the morning, but that doesn't happen very often!)

I pray this slow, lazy summer at home has been more positive than negative for the kids. I want them to always enjoy being together as a family, but at the same time I know how important individual, social activities are for both of them. Lucas will start back at preschool this fall, very part time at a local church. I'm hoping his time away will make him appreciate time at home even more.

I value my calling as a stay at home mom deeply. I believe that I am doing exactly what God has called me and equipped me to do for this season in life. Such freedom and joy has come from accepting and surrendering to His calling! That's why it's so hard for me when I have days like today when I'm still in my pjs at 9:45 and all I feel like doing is taking a nap!

(Almost) 37 weeks!!

2010-07-26T07:19:00.002-05:00

Our lazy, summer morning has gotten off to a great start. Pancakes for breakfast and lots of snuggling on the couch while watching Curious George on PBS. I love George.

My two little ones are cozied up beside me while my littlest one is wiggling around in my over-extended belly. It's hard to believe that He will be here soon!

I find myself daydreaming all the time about holding him in my arms, nuzzling him, cheek to cheek. Last night I was telling my sister, Melanie, about how I long for those quiet moments in the hospital, long after family has left, when Matt and I unswaddle our new baby and marvel at the miracle before us. Such joy-filled, exhausting moments are coming soon!

Please continue to pray for us as we wait in expectation and do our best to prepare to become a family of 5!

Divas, Daddy, Water, Friends

2010-07-23T07:48:00.003-05:00

We're making the most of the hot, humid days of summer! Lots of indoor, creative play. Too much t.v., trips to the water park and cherished time with friends. Thanks to Meg and Skye for a wonderful baby shower!

Up, Down and All Around

2010-07-22T20:46:00.003-05:00

Our life is full of inconsistencies. Some days are lazy and slow, others are jammed packed and non-stop. One day the kids are happy, loving and obedient, the next, well, I wonder if they are possessed by the devil. Today I feel good, tomorrow I can barely get out of bed. Yesterday was one of our worst days this summer, while the day before was one of our best.

Does anyone else have crazy seasons like this ? Sometimes I miss the boring days of summer....

Best of Friends

2010-07-15T07:06:00.006-05:00

We're weeks away from baby boy's big arrival and I'm doing exactly what my Momma told I would be doing - marveling (and mourning) at how fast Lucas and Ava are growing up. Amazing how a little perspective shift can give you hyper awareness of your current circumstances.

Even as I am wishing that delivery day would come tomorrow, I feel the Holy Spirit reminding me to savor this fleeting time. Our last few weeks as a family of four. The last time I will ever feel a baby move inside of me. The last time I'll be this huge (hooray!). And the last time it will be just Lucas and Ava.

I have prayed for a long time that Lucas and Ava would become best friends, and I'm watching this beautiful friendship form right before my eyes. Ever since we pulled Lucas out of preschool, our two little ones have been each other's constant playmate. And now they are sharing a room! It's a love/hate relationship. They wrestle, chase each other, perform dance concerts, jump on the bed, fight, aggravate, and fiercely love each other.

This little girl, who has amazing bed head, loves to copy everything her big brother does! Whether she's learning good things from him (like her ABC's or counting to 14) or bad things (like temper tantrums and pouting), Ava wants to be just like her big brother.

For the most part, I think that's a wonderful thing!

(Sorry for the blurriness, I had the camera on the wrong setting!)

Please pray for us as we transition into this new season of life. Pray that Lucas and Ava will welcome their little brother into their hearts and the three of them will grow into the best of friends!

Needing some prayer

2010-07-09T18:25:00.002-05:00

I don't know if it's the culmination of a busy couple weeks or the delayed effects of traveling last weekend to visit family, but today, my body is loudly waving the white flag of defeat. My toes are numb, my fingers are swelling and my back is killing me; and I'm really discouraged about this. I still have a little over a month left in this pregnancy and I'm struggling to see how I'm going to survive. I feel so limited in what I can accomplish around the house and for the family. Matt is heroically handling a lot of the household tasks for me, including caring for the kids when he's home. I haven't had to give a bath in over 3 weeks! Matt spent the better part of today cleaning out the hall closet and guest bedroom. He also is painting the kids' room and doing so much more.

I could sink down into a well of self-pity, but instead I'm asking for prayer. I could really use some. Pray for my strength and joy to return. Pray that our family won't go hungry when I throw inedible meals together in a desperate attempt to feed them. (a bit of drama, sorry!) Pray that we will find some semblance of organization before baby Boy arrives. And pray that we sell of Tundra so we can purchase a mini-van.

Thanks!

Lazy Spring Morning

2010-07-02T08:10:00.001-05:00

**Yes, I wrote this post a couple months ago, but never got around to posting it!**

I think one of the greatest gifts about being as stay at home mom (SAHM) are mornings that start off slowly, no rushing or frantic pace to get out the door to somewhere important. The kids are still in their pajamas enjoying some PBSKids while I sip a cup of coffee and collect my thoughts. This peaceful feeling is something I will miss when the kids are in school, I'm sure.

This morning started off in a magical way. I woke up about 10 minutes before Lucas and got to spend a few minutes in the Word. Soon after I heard little feet running to my door and saw a beaming little boy eager to jump in my bed and tell me that "he slept good." We turned on the t.v. and enjoyed sitting side by side until Miss A began to call from the other room. She never appreciates being left out. Soon breakfast was on the table, spoons were passed out and my coffee from the day before reheated. Pinks and greens and blues and whites from the spring display outside our kitchen windows cast a delightful atmosphere that rivals any fine dining. I pulled out a new book. A book bought spontaneously at the local Christian bookstore last week while running errands. It's called "Let's go on a Mommy Date" and it's by my favorite of all time author, Karen Kingsbury.

The last page holds words that brought me to tears and gave a holy presence to the moment.

"See, time will take you far from here; you're growing way too fast. All I want is Mommy time to make the moments last. Something we'll remember so that come some far-off day, you'll know how much I loved you 'cause we took the time to play."

Our life can seem so ordinary. Riding bikes, examining earthworms, weekly trips to the grocery store and play dates with dear friends. The days have a way of running together. But I believe in my heart that lumped together, these simple, routine moments create a confidant knowing that we are loved and we love each other. I have no idea what experiences will stand out in my kids' memories when they are grown and gone, but I pray that they will know in their hearts that their Heavenly Father and their family love them unconditionally.

Once again

2010-06-27T14:38:00.003-05:00

Well it's time. Time to start blogging again. I've been thinking about this moment for over a month now. I met with a dear friend, and with her help and guidance, started dreaming about the "vision" for my blog, along with new templet ideas and traffic generation. But none of it has taken off, obviously. Instead, I'm here today, writing once again, because of the regret I already feel for not documenting this special, challenging time in our lives. As much as I would love for this blog to be a place of encouragement and community and widespread readership, it's original purpose was to be a simple online journal of the amazing journey of motherhood that I'm on. So that's my focus now, the purpose behind this blog.

Where do I even begin? I'm entering into the 8th month of my third (and final) pregnancy. I'm exhausted, joyful, emotional, irritable, and nostalgic. Our house is in chaos as we are trying to organize and prepare for our baby boy's upcoming arrival. Lucas and Ava are now sharing a room and while it's been a difficult adjustment (i.e. lack of sleep for us all), I'm believing some very good things are coming from this new arrangement.

Yes, our son does have a name and no it's not a secret. But for some reason, I can't bring myself to announce it "online" until his birth. But if you see me in person, I'd be happy to tell you!

I already love our little boy so much. I often find myself daydreaming about life once he arrives. The simple, daily tasks of feeding and changing him. Giving baths in the kitchen sink with two eager helpers at my side and the all consuming exhaustion from no sleep, are just a few of the joys and worries that distract me. One minute I'm marveling at how our family is going to be forever blessed by this little boy and the next I'm stressing over the amazing task of raising three little ones at home.

I pray daily that our children will be best friends. I want them to know with every breath that the people who love them the most are right here in this house. I'm humbled and scared at the responsibility of raising these three children. More than anything, I want them to know the all-consuming love of Jesus. I want them to know that He is more than enough and that without Him life is meaningless. I also know that Matt and I share the enormous task of being a walking, breathing Jesus to our children. His love for them and plans for them will be best demonstrated in the ways we love and care for our children.

Please pray for us as we daily seek the Lord's guidance in parenthood.

I plan on writing whenever I can steal a moment away. Thank you for sharing this journey with me. Please let me know how I can be praying for you!

Changes

2010-03-18T06:39:00.005-05:00

We are in week 3 or 4 of Lucas not being in preschool anymore, and while the transition has gone well, there have been a few growing pains. As a parent, I want so badly to protect my children from ever feeling confused or insecure. Lucas is a creature of routine, thriving when the day is planned and feeling secure with set boundaries. Seriously, this kid loves to know the rules. If he would always follow them, well then my life would be even easier!

So when Matt and I decided to keep Lucas home full time (he was in preschool 5 mornings a week), I knew we were taking away a sense of security for Lucas, and that worried me. One of the reasons behind our decision were comments Lucas kept saying to me, "Mommy, I want to be home with you and Ava" or "Do I have to go to school today?. After the first week of being home full time, I started hearing comments like "when do I get to see my friends again?" and "what day is it? Is it a school day?" Thankfully we got through those moments pretty easily and they haven't come up again.

But now, I'm back to subbing at Lucas's preschool a couple days a week, which means that Lucas and Ava go to school with me. Yesterday, I was on the playground when Lucas's class came out to play. He saw me, gave me a big hug, than asked me to go away. He said he wanted to play with his friends without me there. My initial reaction was "oh, that kind of hurt", but I quickly realized that Lucas needs the separation of Mommy/family time and school/friends time. I'm hoping in the near future, that we can rejoin the gym and provide me some much needed exercise/alone time and give the kids a couple hours with friends and other authority figures.

We've stayed pretty busy with play dates and activities, running errands and visits from Grandma. The Lord has really blessed us with some great friends with kids who play well with mine. I've started Lucas on some workbooks to try and keep up with his learning, but I'm not much of a teacher. Apparently we are both going to learn a couple lessons in patience during this season.

I wish big decisions, especially ones about the kids, came with a guarantee of success. But that wouldn't be true to life, would it?

I just can't resist......

2010-02-08T12:28:00.003-05:00

showing off Ava's bloomers! Thanks Aunt Melanie!

Cutest little bottom I've ever seen!

Speaking of bottoms, Ava asked her Daddy to put her on the potty yesterday! Her request caught us off guard, but I recovered quick enough to grab the camera!

Check out my little bookworm! I hope she follows in my footsteps and loves to read too!

news and thoughts

2010-02-03T16:04:00.004-05:00

First, I have to tell you our exciting news! Baby number 3 is on the way! He/she's been turning my world upside down for 12 weeks now! #3 is due in August - yes, I know how hot it is, and no, I wouldn't wish any woman to go thru the hot summer in the South 9 months pregnant! But apparently, this is our time of year to birth babies!

I appreciate all of you who still faithfully check back to see if I'm ever going to update my blog again! Below are my thoughts about it:

This blog has been such a learning process for me. A journey of sorts. One that has been exciting at times and other times a chore. It's served as an baby update for family, a journal for my private thoughts, and a sharing opportunity of things that interest me.

But I am uncertain about the future of my blog. I've been struggling for the past year, feeling discontent with my inability to focus the topic of what I'm writing about. I no longer want to write a "baby" blog. While yes, I'm still in the trenches of child-raising, and won't be coming out for quite a while, being a Mom isn't the only thing that defines me. However, my life is centered around being a stay at home mom, so I can't help but write about the daily antics and joys and struggles of being "Mama". It is, of course, a big part of who I am.

Can you see my conflict?

I've questioned my motives for writing the blog. Am I writing because I love to write and this is simply an extension of my gifting, or do I write to increase my readership so that I can feel good about myself?

What do I hope to gain from keeping this blog? What do I hope to offer my readers? Does knowing my readers personally make it easier or harder to be transparent? (answer: much harder.) Is this blog a ministry or simply a pleasant distraction in the middle of a work day?

Is this the end of Alexanderbaby?

I honestly don't know. I don't think it is. I do love to write and get my thoughts out there, no matter if I'm the only one reading them, so I can't imagine not having this outlet.

So I'm taking the time to reevaluate my heart and mind in regards to this online journal. I enjoy reading blogs of people I know and blogs of people I quite possibly will never meet. I find it fascinating that we live in such a connected world that community and friendship and common bonds are built through a computer.

I'm drawn to blogs that touch my heart - topics that speak to the deeper meaning of being a mom, a Christian and a woman. It's those posts that I bookmark to read again later or share with a friend.

So this is me, being transparent, letting you know where I'm at and what's going on in my head. I'm not looking for opinions or suggestions about the direction of this blog because I'm not writing to please other people. This is something I have to figure out on my own.

A new recipe

2010-01-09T19:14:00.002-05:00

Since I cook most nights of the week, I'm always looking for yummy and easy meals to put together for my family. I love to watch cooking shows and read magazines, such as Cooking Light, but I most typically find my recipes online. However, tonight I tried a new recipe from January's Cooking Light and it was a hit with the entire family!

Fettuccine Alfredo with Bacon

1 (9oz) package refrigerated fresh fettuccine**I think it was worth the extra $ to buy fresh, but it's up to you
2 slices bacon
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 cup 1% low fat milk
2/3 cup grated Parmigiano-reggiano Cheese **I used the stuff in the green can
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley ** I used dried
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain in a colander over a bowl, reserving a 1/4 cup cooking liquid.

While pasta cooks, cook bacon over medium high heat until crisp, stirring occasionally. Remove bacon from pan, reserving drippings. Add garlic to drippings in pan ** make sure your grease isn't too hot or your garlic will burn, as I learned the hard way**; saute 1 minute, stirring constantly. Sprinkle four over garlic; cook 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly; cook 2 minutes or until bubbly and slightly thick, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low. Gradually add cheese, stirring until cheese melts. Stir in salt and reserved 1/4 cup of cooking liquid. Add hot pasta to pan; toss well to combine. Sprinkle with bacon, parsley and pepper. Yields 4 servings.

I think you're family will love this dish as much as we did. It took me about 25 minutes to make and I had two little ones underfoot begging for food. (probably the reason why I burned the garlic!)

Ava Grace

2010-01-08T08:55:00.003-05:00

Ava Grace turned 17 months just a few days ago. Can you believe it? Here's a little update on the busy life of Miss A.

Language. It's exploding! Ava understands everything we say and we understand just about everything she's trying to say. Through words, gestures and facial expressions, Ava has learned to express her opinion! She always copying us, whether it's calling "Annie! Annie!" and clapping her hands when the dog is outside or saying "A-ba! A-ba!" in a deep growl like her big brother. She says "tank -u" when you hand her something, "I want milk" when she wants her milk, "I want nack or yummy" when she wants to eat. Ava has learned the word "No" and definitely knows how to use it!

She's so adaptable, eager to be a part of anything that's going on, and really silly. This girl loves to dance and clap her hands to the beat. Ava finds joy in running away when she knows I'm calling her (especially for a diaper change) and adores taking baths with her brother. He's so patient with her as she tries to wash his hair!

As you can see, our world is brighter with Ava in our lives!

Close to the Father

2009-12-29T21:28:00.002-05:00

We went out of town to visit my family for Christmas. The kids loved being with their cousins and we loved being with family. It was truly a special time.

But Ava had a few hard nights after we got back. For whatever reason, she keeps waking up around 10:00 and crying. Both Matt and I took turns consoling her, but with little success. One night, I was already in bed (I'm an early sleeper now), so Matt finally brought Ava into our room and put her in bed with me. The little girl was so surprised she didn't know what to do. (We are anti-family-bed people.) She laid her head on my chest so tenderly and calmed down immediately. Another moment of countless moments that I will treasure in my heart.

After snuggling for 10 minutes, I gingerly carried Ava into her room and put her to bed. The Lord quietly spoke to my heart in that moment. All Ava needed was to be near me to calm down. She found peace being with me.

How often do I find myself consumed with worry or fear, distracted by the littlest annoyances or frustrations? I start wringing my hands while irrational thoughts steal any sense of peace. Life is hard; that's part of being a grownup, right? But we don't have to face these trials and difficulties alone.

All we need to do is stay near the Father.

"I have told you these things, so that in me you will have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world"
John 16:33

"Peace I leave you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts by troubled and do not be afraid."
John 14:27

This week

2009-12-23T09:59:00.003-05:00

We went to see a Christmas light show here in town this week. Both of the kids were pretty amazed. Lucas, my ever practical boy, wasn't too impressed with my enthusiasm. "Look buddy at the reindeer!" "Mama, that's not a real reindeer. It's only lights!"

Lucas had asked me last week if he could see Santa again because he "needed to tell him one more thing!" So after we drove through the lights, we went into Santa's workshop so Lucas could tell him about a pirate ship he really wants. As kids can be, Lucas was more excited about the balloon sword an elf made him, then sitting with Santa. Ava wanted no part in Mr. Claus, so the man in red asked Matt to hold Ava and sit on his lap. Matt was really caught off guard by the request! It was too funny to watch!

Last night the kids dressed up and we went to a family Christmas party. I tried to get them to pose by the tree before we left, but as you can see Ava was not impressed by my efforts one bit.
Apparently she wanted to sit on the fireplace to have her picture made. We stopped at Wal-mart on the way to the party to buy Ava black shoes. She looked like a princess in her Christmas dress. I will always treasure the sight of her sashaying around in her dress, waving at everyone as she walked by them. She charmed the whole room.

Our Tree is finally up!

2009-12-09T10:28:00.002-05:00

Baby girl asked to sit on the piano bench by herself and play for us! She's growing so fast!

The kids are fascinated by the Christmas tree. So far, only two ornaments have broken and I am responsible for both! Clumsy me!

Getting them both to smile normally for the camera is getting harder and harder!

I always wear my snazzy apron when we have company! Makes me feel like a 1950s housewife!

Here comes Santa Claus....

2009-12-05T07:42:00.009-05:00

Sing with me, "Here comes Santa Claus, here comes Santa Claus right down Santa Claus lane..."

It's been in my head all night! Last night, we made an improptu decision to attend the tree lighting service downtown. I say it was impromptu because we rushed on to arrive 1 minute after the tree was lit. Suddenly, we're walking up a side street, when two fire trucks come racing by. Knowing "the man in red" would be on board, Lucas and I took of running, giggling like two school girls, just to catch a glimpse.

The crowd was waiting in anticpation, children (and me) jumping up and down with glee. But just as quickly as they came, the fire trucks left. No Santa!

We were thoroughly confused. So we decided to have our picture made by some nice lady.

Do you like my red coat? I do. I feel rather glamorous when I wear it.

We waited for what felt like forever, when we heard the fire trucks coming down the road again. This time, we were not disappointed!

We rushed across the street and found the line to see Santa. I've been anticipating this event all Christmas season!
We had fun while we waited in line. The Hanna Jaz band played some (loud) entertaining music behind us. Lucas was much more patient then I had expected. And a lot more serious. Finally it was our turn!
I wasn't supposed to be in the photo, but Ava started crying the minute she realized she was expected to sit on some weird dude's lap. As you can see by Lucas's face, he was taking this very seriously. Here's how his conversation went:

"What do you want for Christmas, little buddy?"

"A umbrella and racetrack."

"Anything else?"
"No. Just a umbrella and racetrack"
"What else do you want?"
"Just a umbrella and racetrack."
*baffled Santa*

"Well, don't be surprised if I bring you a few extra things. I did that last year and you loved it!"
*way to ad lib, Santa!*

So on this fine Saturday morning, after I make some waffles and enjoy my pumpkin pie flavored coffee, I will be making a trip to the toy store to pick up a racetrack and umbrella and returning a few good-intentioned presents.

Learning

2009-12-02T08:49:00.004-05:00

Remember a while back ago when I was so excited about the new chore chart I was trying out with the Lucas? Well, the excitement wore off pretty quickly for the both of us. Lucas was not motivated by the stickers or rewards and I felt like the chart took away from my passion to teach my children biblical principles. The chart was forgotten by the both of us during the second week and I finally tossed it out this week.

Amazingly, Lucas is still and even more willing to help around the house. This morning I asked him to water the dog before we left for school,which he did without a question or complaint. Here's what I realized this morning; I feel pretty passionate about the idea of modeling and teaching the concept of biblical servanthood. I want our children to understand what it means to help and serve the people around them without personal gain. I want this to come naturally for them one day, so that means, I need to invest my time and energy in them today.

Lucas and I had three years of Mommy and me time. Since Ava has come along, she's learned to go with the flow and jump right into the action. However, now that Lucas is in preschool 5 mornings a week, Ava and I are finding that special together time that we both crave. Some mornings, we run errands together. Other days, a little friend comes over for me to watch and Ava to play with. And other days, like today when it's too yucky to run to the grocery store, Ava follows me around the house, watching me serve our family by making beds, doing laundry and cleaning.

And she loves to help. Whether it's putting the dirty clothes into the laundry basket (and then sometimes taking a ride on that same basket) or pulling the clean clothes out of the dryer, Ava is always beside me, eager to partcipate. I know this behavior is a part of her development stage, but I also believe that she is finding joy in being Mommy's helper. Lucas used to do the same thing at this age.

Ava especially loves her job of unloading the clean silverware from the dishwasher. I quickly remove the knives before eager hands get cut, then she gets started, eager and determined to help.

We also teach this concept of serving by expecting Lucas to pick up his dirty clothes and put them in his laundry basket, taking his dirty dishes to the sink after a meal and saying thank you, and putting his toys away after playing with them. All of these actions communicate respect and a grateful heart, which Lucas and I talk about a lot. Of course, we still have to prompt him most of the time, but I can see the habits forming.

In a culture that is so "me" focused, let's put in the effort to remind our children that life really isn't all about them. Children are such an important part of a family, but they share in the responsibility of that family. What a difference it would make if all children learned that respect for others is way more important than esteeming themselves.

"Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, "If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all."
Mark 9:34-36

our little cuties

2009-12-01T15:44:00.003-05:00

They looked so cute this morning, I had to snap a picture before school! Notice the hair bow on Ava - she finally has enough hair to wear the bows I ordered over 2 years ago!

Captain Hook and Peter Pan showed up for dinner last night!

Funny girl. For three days Ava kept crossing her two fingers at the oddest times. Matt thought she was making a gang symbol.

A quiet morning of reflection

2009-11-27T08:28:00.003-05:00

I'm in the middle of reading the famous "Baxter" books by Karen Kingsbury. This is at least the third time I've read them. I love the new things I notice each time I read one. The stories in these books are so real and personable. I was particularly touched by the last book, Reunion, which tackled the subject of losing a parent.

The anniversary of my Daddy's death is coming up this January. Since my Daddy died six months before Matt and I got married, I feel such sadness when I think about all we've missed not having him here. I like to think back over the past almost 7 years and imagine him as a part of those memories. Walking me down the aisle, praying for me as I endured the heartache of endometriosis, welcoming his first grandchild, encouraging Matt as he started his business, praying for us during the difficult times, cherishing little Ava, and overall being a constant source of love in our lives.

But the lesson I learned from the book Reunion is that we can't waste our energy feeling sad or angry over the times we won't share with the people we love. Instead, we should focus our thoughts on remembering the time we did have together. What a shift in perspective! And a freeing one too!

I only had 20 years with my Daddy, but what a gift those 20 years are! I will never be able to answer the "why?" question that is in my heart, but I can relish the wonderful memories I hold of my Daddy.

This morning I am captivated by memories from high school. We often found Daddy sitting in his chair at the kitchen table, reading the paper or talking with Momma while she cooked dinner. I breezed in and out of the house, busy with the busy-ness of being a teenager. After hugging Mom goodbye, I would stop and give Daddy a brief kiss on the cheek and tell him that I loved him. Didn't matter if I was just running up to Wal-mart for a bit, our family always left with an "I love you".

I'd give anything to kiss him on the cheek one more time.

And I will one day. One day we will be reunited in Heaven. I am confidant of that. Not because of anything we've done, but because of our belief in a Savior named Jesus and what He did for us. My brain can't wrap itself around the concept of Heaven, but I know my Jesus has made a way for me to be there and I know my Daddy will be there waiting for me.

2009-11-25T22:02:00.002-05:00

I read some verses a few days ago that I think are very fitting in light of the holiday season. And I want to share them with you!

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all the wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."
--- Colossians 3:15-17

Happy Turkey Day!

2009-11-24T10:19:00.002-05:00

I don't have time this morning to play catch-up, but I will ask for your prayers. I'm headed out in about 15 minutes to go to an interview. My first in 5 years! I'm hoping to become a substitute teacher at Lucas's preschool! The Lord has truly made this possible, and He is clearly leading me down this path, so I feel pretty confidant going into the interview! November has been a very challenging month, but has also been a month of great hope and growth. I am constantly being reminded that His ways are not our ways and that He has a plan for me. And I can trust Him.

So please pray! I'll let you know how it goes!
love!

Fun Day

2009-11-19T18:24:00.002-05:00

Peter Pan and Miss Lovebug

2009-11-09T13:30:00.000-05:00

Here are some photos from our exciting night of trick-or-treating. Lucas asked me 3 weeks before Halloween if he could be Peter Pan. His class had watched the disney classic on a rainy day at school. I loved the idea, but I did not want to invest any money into it. Sorry, but I'm cheap and especially when it comes to an outfit only worn once or twice. So with frugality in mind, I put his costume together for only $3.50! Thanks to Aunt Amy, Ava dressed up as a Lovebug and looked quite adorable! After walking a friend's neighborhood, we ended up at Matt's parent's house where Lucas got to pass out candy to kids who came to the door. He loved that!

Fall

2009-11-05T07:19:00.002-05:00

I am so inspired by the scene outside my window. Leaves in an array of colors have blanketed our lawn, courtyard and cars. We hear their crunch as we play outside (which we've been doing a lot more of!) and we've marveled as the leaves seemingly float off their branches as we lay under the Oaks. It is truly a breathtaking season.

But, as you know, this season is simply the intro before a season of dark grays are ushered in. Winter can be so harsh on the soul. As much as the crispness in the air energizes me, I am never too distracted to forget the possibility of a melancholy season ahead. In early January of 2003, my Daddy passed away unexpectedly. January 2004, Matt and I embarked on our long and painful journey with endometriosis. In fall/winter of 2005, I was rejoicing over the tiny infant in my arms, while at the same time wrestling with the tangles of post-partum depression. The short days of light and the gray skies have a way of reminding us of our vulnerability.

But take heart.

"As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him. For who is God besides the Lord? And who is the Rock except for our God? It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; He enables me to stand on the heights. He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze. You give your shield of victory and your right hand sustains me; you stoop down to make me great. You broaden the path beneath me, so that my ankles do not turn."
Psalm 18:30-36

So much Hope. So much Love. So much Peace.

Our Lord knows exactly where you are; in fact, He probably put you there. So take heart.

The Faces of Ava

2009-11-01T21:37:00.004-05:00

Can you see why I can't get enough of this girl? Oh my, she's a cutie!

Candy Overload

2009-11-01T20:27:00.003-05:00

Check out the loot we scored last night! It pays off to have a baby old enough to "trick-or treat' but not old enough to eat the candy! :)

Granted, my marshmallow belly says otherwise.

Payless Coupon

2009-10-30T13:17:00.004-05:00

If you haven't made it to Payless today, you should drop what you're doing, click on this link for a 50% off coupon, and drive to your nearest Payless Shoe Source. Prepare yourself for no available parking spaces and a long line, but as you can see in the photo above, it is totally worth it!

Three pairs of shoes for $25! Now, that's what I call savings!

The coupon is for today only!

Have fun!

Are You Awake, Mommy?

2009-10-29T13:16:00.005-05:00

The past two nights, Lucas has woken me up, several times, for the most seemingly random conversations. The first time, I woke up to a couple pats on my arm and the face of my sweet Lucas hovering nearby. "I'm scared, Mommy," he said. "My room is too dark".

I stumbled out of bed, bleary eyed and drowsy to find a nightlight; after all, Mommy can fix any problem. Once the soft glow calmed Lucas fears and I had him tucked safely back in bed, I reminded him that when he is scared, he can pray to Jesus, who always hears him. Lucas then asked me where Jesus lives. Then he said, "Why did Jesus have to die on a cross?" I did my best, at 3:30 in the morning, to explain our need for salvation in a way his 4 year old mind could understand. Lucas then asked me if we will die one day, to which I replied, yes. Lucas had a look of fear in his eyes, and then said, "but we won't be together anymore". I was touched by his love for our family. Again, I told him that because Daddy and I believe in Jesus and have accepted his gift of salvation, we will go to heaven when we die and I pray that one day Lucas and Ava will accept His gift.

Lucas seemed okay with my answer. I was rather shocked by this deep, random conversation. I didn't know what to expect next, when Lucas looked at me and said "Do you think God has a really big lollipop?"

I kissed him goodnight and went back to bed marveling at the amazing conversation we just shared.

Last night, I was woken up at 12:47, 3:31, and 6:44. Each time, Lucas asked me to find his stuffed kitty cat. The first time, I walked through the house looking for the beloved animal. The second time, I told Lucas I couldn't find it and the third wake up call, I told him to go find his Daddy.

As much as I'm enjoying this interesting and endearing time with Lucas, I really hope he lets me sleep tonight!

Banana Bread Fail

2009-10-29T10:39:00.003-05:00

I guess I didn't cook it long enough.

2009-10-26T08:07:00.003-05:00

The week has been full of fun and family! My Mom, sister Melanie and her baby Anna came for a visit! We had a great time taking the kids to the Fall Festival at Lucas's preschool! Friday we were a part of a baby shower for dear friends, Ben and Skye.

2009-10-26T07:49:00.004-05:00

I am still trying to get myself back on track after being sick a couple weeks ago. I'm struggling to get my thoughts into words and onto paper, or the blog. So instead, I will bombard you with photos of the busy-ness of our lives the past couple weeks. It's been wonderful to be so busy!

Over the weekend, we attended a birthday party for a girl in Lucas's preschool class. The party was at Callaham's Orchard - a wonderful, family owned place in Belton, SC. Great place to visit!

Dinner Tonight

2009-10-15T14:48:00.003-05:00

On this cool, rainy fall afternoon, I'm craving something warm and savory for dinner. So tonight we're having Chicken soft tacos!

This super easy and yummy recipe comes from my friend Kathryn. Thanks girl!

Chicken Tacos:
Chicken (I'm using 1.25lbs of chicken tenders still frozen!)
1 Packet Taco Seasoning Mix
1 Cup Water
1 Can Chopped Green Chilies

Throw chicken in your crock pot. Don't worry about thawing it if frozen! Mix together taco seasoning and water. Pour over chicken. Pour in can of chilies. (These are not spicy) and stir to mix. Cook on low for 6 hours.

Serve in taco shells (soft or hard) with all the fixin's!

We're having yellow rice with corn on the side!

Silly Girl

2009-10-15T11:27:00.001-05:00

Being sick can't stop the silliness.

Miss Piggy

2009-10-14T10:45:00.002-05:00

Ava has the swine flu. Please pray for us.

Oh Boy

2009-10-13T21:06:00.002-05:00

Proof that a 4 year old boy lives in our house.

Busy

2009-10-13T09:49:00.003-05:00

That is the word to describe this week at our house. So instead of taking time to write a blog post, I'm going to direct you to a short video by a great pastor that I believe will make you think.

It fits right in with what Matt and I've been talking about a lot for the past few months: holiness.

So check it out and tell me what you think.

How do you like them apples?

2009-10-10T20:37:00.004-05:00

Our impromptu trip to the apple orchard today in Mountain Rest, SC started with Lucas and preschool. Several weeks ago, Lucas came home from preschool begging me to take him apple picking. The theme for that particular week in his class was apples, so they made apple sauce, created apple stamps and apparently talked a lot about apple picking. I brushed him off with some lame excuse about apple orchards being too far away, but my ever-clever little boy was too smart for me when he suggested that we plant an apple tree in our yard instead -so we wouldn't have to travel far at all. He talked about that idea for at least a week.

Sometimes I have to be reminded that he's four, and I can't distract him as easily as before.

But fate was on Lucas's side when Matt came home with a bag of "magical mountain" apples from his racquetball partner, Rose. Okay, I'm only kidding about the fate part, and no, the apples did not contain a special power, except for their exceptional taste. Matt was so enthusiastic about these particular apples, we spent the evening discussing why grocery store apples are so lame versus these oh-so-delicious-and-crisp-why-can't-I-stop-eating-them-apples. Multiple apple consumption later, we decided a visit to this apple promise land was required.
Now, I said our trip was impromptu and that's because while we talked and talked and talked about these apples, we didn't put any forethought into actually putting a trip together, until today. This morning, after stealing a loot of clothes for Ava from yard sales in a local, upscale neighborhood, and then visiting with some friends who dropped by for a bit, we decided that the time had come for us to go!

Two hours later, we arrived to our destination, that is incidentally, only 45 minutes away.

No, our GPS did not fail us. You see, we first had to pack snacks, round up jackets and a missing baby shoe, remind Lucas 18 times to go to the potty before we leave, get gas in the car, check air in the tires, print out directions in case GPS did fail us, and pick up lunch.

Don't you just love how long winded I am today??

Lunch. Well, that's a story in and of itself. A coupon promising half-off prompted us to try a new place in town called Coach and Jo-Jo's. A weird name, but super great food! Bird dogs, sloppy joes, hot dogs and fresh-cut fries are just 4 reasons why you have to go there! We watched them take a large spud, cut into the perfect size fries and cook it. Fresh, I tell ya!

So that is why we arrived at the Bryson Apple Orchard with two very sleepy children (and a slightly cranky Mama). Don't you just love their faces in our "family photo"? Priceless.
The apple picking was a huge success, enjoyed greatly by everyone. Ava entertained herself by emptying our buckets of spoils and delightfully throwing the apples back in. Transferring objects is her favorite activity right now. Along with tackling her brother.
Our wonderful, long, and adventurous day ended with a batch of Momma's Apple Dumplings and an early bedtime for the kids. I'll share the recipe soon! Delightful!

Lucas's First Trip to the Dentist

2009-10-08T09:46:00.002-05:00

I'm so proud of our big boy, Lucas! He did great at his first trip to the dentist! He sat through the cleaning, flossing and fluoride just fine! The dentist did not find any cavities!

In the car on the way back home, Lucas informed me that he wanted to throw-up. After a second of panicking, I asked him why he wanted to throw-up. He said the yellow stuff (the fluoride treatment was in a yellow tray) was icky and needed to come out of his body. When I told him to not throw up, he shrugged and said, "I guess I'll have to tee-tee it out".

Who can argue with that logic?

I'm so thankful Lucas had such a positive experience; as we all know, the dentist can be such a stressful place! I was a little surprised at the amount of anxiety I felt as Lucas got his teeth cleaned. Images of past trips to the dentist (painful ones) kept flashing through my mind until I found myself breathing a little faster and tapping my foot on the floor. Thankfully Lucas was too distracted by "Mr. Thirsty" to notice my anxiety.

Spaghetti Pie

2009-10-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

If you want to make this easy, amazing, feed a large crowd or have lots of leftovers, dish, check out the recipe for Spaghetti Pie here. Loved by adults and kids alike!

Prayer Works!

2009-10-05T07:51:00.002-05:00

Update: Good news from the doctor! No change - Amy will continue treatment and go back in 6 months! Thanks for praying!

*************************************************************************************
Please pray for my precious sister Amy and her honey Brock. She has a big doctor's appointment this morning at Emory. Healing, comfort, peace, strength. All from Jesus.

And please pray for my mom who is keeping their kids back home. She's the best!

Update

2009-10-05T07:23:00.004-05:00

For the sake of my thighs, I must make a confession this morning. Remember my goals for September weight loss? Something like "lose 6-10 pounds"? Well ever since I quit WW, I have stopped losing weight. In fact, I've gained a pound.

Now before you respond, I will add that I have lost a couple inches over my body, so I'm pretty sure I'm gaining muscle from working out consistently.

However, my jiggly thighs and gooey tummy have reminded me that I have not reached my weight loss goals yet. And it's time to get back on the diet plan!

Instead of counting points this month, I spent my time analyzing why I like to eat so much and why I feel so happy when I'm not dieting. (I do have to use my degree in Psychology sometime!)

Wanna hear my excuses, um... I mean thoughts?

I really hate feeling hungry.

For 3 months, WW kept me from feeling "full" and now that I've gotten that feeling back, I don't know how to let go.

I've never been good at following through. Seriously. I'm great at ideas, brainstorming ways to reach a goal or accomplish something great, but when it comes to making it till the end, I stink.

It's a simple lack of self-discipline. A theme I'm seeing in lots of areas in my life.

So what am I going to do about this? I can't afford therapy, so that means it's time for me to get over myself and kick it in to high gear. It's time to start counting points again and paying attention to what I put into my mouth. I want to lose 2 pounds this week!

Wow. Even as I type this, I'm struggling to believe I will actually follow through with my lofty goals.

We are our own worst enemies, right?

Okay, here's the new plan : pray. Pray for self-control and discipline (two qualities not in my human nature) to keep track of my food.

And stop thinking/obsessing about food and my jello-belly. There are way more important things in life, and one of them is crawling on my feet right now!

Hello Sunday Morning!

2009-10-04T10:21:00.002-05:00

I Wanna Be Like You

2009-10-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

Imitation is the highest form of flattery, right?

Apparently we don't have enough "girl" toys in our house as Ava is busy sorting L's trucks!

"I'm a pilot!" - L's explanation for wearing a pen clipped to his shirt. Where he got this idea that pilot's wear their pens in their shirts, I have no idea! But I do know a certain Daddy who likes to clip his pen, along with his keys, phones and multi-tool to himself!

I have a Job for You

2009-10-01T13:45:00.000-05:00

That's what I've been saying to Lucas for the past couple days. This whole job idea fits in with the concept I've been teaching Lucas for the past year; that Mommy has a job - tasks that must be completed every day that don't include race cars or playdough. I think it's important for Lucas to respect my "job" as a stay at home mom and to foster independence in him to play by himself.

Good stuff, I think! As a result of my passion for our son to respect SAHMs and to teach him responsibility, I've come up with a weekly chore chart! As you can see, the tasks are pretty simple, but important. Taking care of the dog teaches ownership and responsibility and takes a load off of me! That is one less mouth I have to worry about feeding!

Getting dressed should be routine, but the little green monster called jealousy has a way of rearing it's ugly head that results in a little boy who wants to lay on his bed and be dressed because "that's how Ava does it".

I am most excited about the habit of daily cleaning the playroom. This room is one I often like to pretend doesn't exist because it can feel really overwhelming with all those toys. I am slowly chipping away at an organizing system for the millions of tiny toys that young boys love to play with; a system that is easy for the kids to use and clean up! So far (it's only day two) I am thrilled at the attention to detail Lucas is displaying in this area. This kid doesn't miss anything when it comes to cleaning up , and I just love that about him!

Several friends have offered suggestions for more tasks to add to the list, but for now, I'm sticking with these four. We are still figuring out a reward system; I know there has to be a token given everyday to keep him interested, but I don't want to hand him a Hershey kiss every afternoon.

How do you motivate your kids to help around the house?

A Jolly Good Day

2009-09-30T08:30:00.000-05:00

Happy thanks to Meg for the delicious strawberry jam I'm enjoying this morning! I was cleaning out my freezer yesterday and came across an adorable container marked "freezer strawberry jam". You know it's good stuff when you can still enjoy it a year after it was made! :)

I've never made jam or jelly, but I have enjoyed some particularly good ones in my lifetime! My love of jam started on my senior trip to London back in 1999. Every morning, Emily and I, along with her parents, would walk down the narrow flights of stairs, or take the claustrophobic elevator, to the bottom floor of a private inn, to enjoy a hot english breakfast. Scones, topped with jam and served with hot tea, of course, completed the delightful meal. Sounds glamorous, doesn't it! Actually, I did feel a bit glamorous as a naive, tender 17 year old staying in another country for the first time.

10 years later (wow - has it really been that long??) I still enjoy sitting down with a cup of hot tea (or coffee) a scone (or toast, like today) topped with thoughtfully made jam (thanks Meg!). It's nice to slow down in the midst of preschool, dirty laundry, clean bathrooms, and clutter to savor this gorgeous fall morning.

You should do the same! Even if you only have five minutes for yourself, take some time to savor the little things like forgotten jam and tea!

Smoky Black Bean Soup

2009-09-29T08:53:00.000-05:00

Smoky Black Bean Soup
serves 6 (4 WW points each)

3 (15.5 oz) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 pound bacon, chopped
1 onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 t. ground cumin
1/2 t. ground chili pepper
4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth (2 cans)

Spray a large saucepan with non-stick spray and set over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, 6-7 minutes. (I removed the bacon with a slotted spoon to let it drain on a paper towel. And I removed most of the bacon grease from the pot. Just leave enough to saute your veggies.) Add peppers, onions, garlic and cook till softened. Add the cumin and chili pepper, cook, stirring constantly until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the beans and broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until slightly thickened, about 30 minutes.

Remove the saucepan from the heat; let cool about 10 minutes. Pour 4 cups of the soup in a blender and puree. Return pureed soup to the saucepan. Cook about 2 minutes until heated back through.

** I've made this recipe several times, but this time, I followed the advice and pureed about half of the soup. It made such a difference! Just a warning - make sure you do the pureeing in batches - if you overload your blender with hot soup, it will explode all over you, as evidenced by the scars on my right arm.

** As you can see in the photo above, I added some yummy toppings to my soup to make it extra special - shredded cheese, sour cream and chopped green onions. Matt likes to eat this soup with tortilla chips, but I think it is great on it's own!

**I plan on making this soup a lot this fall. Both kids gobbled it up. I think it would be fun to serve this as a dip or a topping for nachos.

Enjoy!

Family Fun Day

2009-09-27T10:39:00.004-05:00

I love it when we do something special on a Saturday. Since I'm a SAHM with kids who aren't in school all day, boredom can set in quickly if we don't shake things up a bit. This past Saturday, after canceling our yard sale due to the impending rain, the kids and I joined Matt at a Family Fun day for Camperdown Academy at Furman University. Matt's company had been hired to run sound for the event, so we tagged along as roadies.

As you can see, I didn't dress my kids for the 64 degree, wind blowing, mist falling weather. Thank goodness Matt had a blanket in his trailer. Matt and I both wore jackets and shorts, but failed to realize that our kids needed jackets too! (I know you're shaking your head in shame, Grandma!) Don't worry, I did remember to put shoes on Ava!

There were a lot of fun things to do at the event, including feeding goats, bouncy slides and playhouses, face painting, a magician, great music :), hot dogs and a 5K race. Apparently there was even a celebrity there - a guy from last season's Biggest Loser ran in the race!

Goodbye for a bit

2009-09-22T21:48:00.001-05:00

I'm taking a mini-break from blogging. I need to unplug and figure a few things out.

So I'll be back in 3-7 days!

Until then, I'll be enjoying the candy corn I picked up at Big Lots today.

Do you hear the whining?

2009-09-22T09:05:00.003-05:00

Here's what I've learned about whining lately. If you ignore it long enough, it will go away! I'm not kidding you - this tactic really does work! (Are some of you rolling your eyes and saying, DUH?)

So that's what I've been doing this past week. Ignoring my kids.

Okay, so not really. I mean, how can you completely ignore a high-pitched whine accompanied by tugs on the pant legs and a couple pudgy-handed pats? But I am doing my best to not acknowledge the whine.

Some days are better than others.