Enjoy a few pics of his first day of school. You'll see my little Judah had to get some pictures too. He's become quite photogenic in the last 3 months. Bethany was MIA, enjoying her 3rd and last day hanging out at her grandparents.
22 August 2010
1st day of School
My Scott started school this past week. He was super excited. I was excited for him but at the same time, I was a little disspointed that 5 years has already past. He's growing so fast! He had 3 days of school this past week and loved it. The only complaint I heard was that he didn't get to have breakfast at the school like the other kids. He's enjoyed the phonics and hasn't told me much else about school. Ryan's enforcing the jolly phonics with him after school (he goes to the vet clinic after school) and giving him math problems. Yes, my kid can already add and subtract because he was bored and needed a challenge.
Enjoy a few pics of his first day of school. You'll see my little Judah had to get some pictures too. He's become quite photogenic in the last 3 months. Bethany was MIA, enjoying her 3rd and last day hanging out at her grandparents.
Enjoy a few pics of his first day of school. You'll see my little Judah had to get some pictures too. He's become quite photogenic in the last 3 months. Bethany was MIA, enjoying her 3rd and last day hanging out at her grandparents.
18 August 2010
Website Wednesday
I started thinking about this post and ignored it and watched an entertaining TV show while I vegged on the couch. So, a little delayed and a bit rushed, I began to think about what website I wanted to share. A website I use often? A website that showcases an organization that I believe in? Here’s my Website Wednesday choice:
Family Fun Magazine is one of my favorite websites. Don’t get me wrong, I love the actual magazine that my in-laws faithfully give to me. But I also make lots of use out of their website. What I like about the website is that it has the same info and so I can just link to the project or article that I want to share with friends. When I’m making a shopping list, I can copy it right from the website so I don’t have to re-write it (yes, I’m lazy like that).
Here’s a perfect example of one of their projects. If only I had read the magazine or perused t
he website before today - the first day of school and Scott’s turn to take snacks to school. Not that I would have been organized enough to accomplish these cute cupcakes, but I might have tried. These cupcakes are made with a cooking, an M&M, Mr. Goody candy and white piping. How easy is that!?!? Go on over and check out the Family Fun website.
Speaking of fun websites, I also want to share one of my favorite blogs. She’s new at blogging but I love what she has to write. Her facebook posts, if you know her in real life, are always funny, encouraging and or thought provoking. She’s another momma who has biological children and has adopted. Like Jayme, she was in my travel group. Go on over and meet Mrs. Deem.
Family Fun Magazine is one of my favorite websites. Don’t get me wrong, I love the actual magazine that my in-laws faithfully give to me. But I also make lots of use out of their website. What I like about the website is that it has the same info and so I can just link to the project or article that I want to share with friends. When I’m making a shopping list, I can copy it right from the website so I don’t have to re-write it (yes, I’m lazy like that).
Here’s a perfect example of one of their projects. If only I had read the magazine or perused t
he website before today - the first day of school and Scott’s turn to take snacks to school. Not that I would have been organized enough to accomplish these cute cupcakes, but I might have tried. These cupcakes are made with a cooking, an M&M, Mr. Goody candy and white piping. How easy is that!?!? Go on over and check out the Family Fun website.Speaking of fun websites, I also want to share one of my favorite blogs. She’s new at blogging but I love what she has to write. Her facebook posts, if you know her in real life, are always funny, encouraging and or thought provoking. She’s another momma who has biological children and has adopted. Like Jayme, she was in my travel group. Go on over and meet Mrs. Deem.
17 August 2010
First morning of the new workout routine. I did not want to get up. As I crawled out of bed, I heard my phone beeped to let me know I had a message. Hmm, who's not coming? It was my buddy who'd called and texted to let me know that she totally forgot that her husband was out of town and she couldn't very well leave the kids to go work out. Between daydreams of crawling back in bed, I laughed at the message because I've done that more than once. Made plans but forgot that Ryan was gone and I needed to be home with the kids.
As I closed my phone, I looked out the window. It was absolutely stunning. I debated on grabbing the camera and went on with the morning routine before deciding I had to capture this God-given sunrise. I just brought the camera in the house Sunday night but couldn't manage to find it. Fortunately, as I drove to town, the sunrise was in my view the whole time. I didn't get to send the photo to my local weatherman but I was able to etch it in my mind.
I arrived at the ghetto gym and ventured downstairs. By myself. I figured the two other girls wouldn't be motivated to show up but I had to go down just in case. Not wanting my arms to be too sore tomorrow, I kept the workout simple and brief. Then I headed back out into the cool morning air to go running. It was great. I was done and home by 645 and though I'd missed my girlfriends, I was glad I saw the sunrise and got some exercise!
12 August 2010
Cori's comment
I love Cori's comment from my last blog. Thought I'd add a quick follow-up from that as a new post. I love physical exercise. In the last year I was lifting weights and doing strength training 2 days a week. It was a great time to connect with a friend too. Said friend began training for a half marathon and we stopped working out. I mostly continued lifting some weights out of my living room. It wasn't the same: I wasn't lifting as much and I missed my friend. About the time Michelle was ready to lift again I hurt my back and wasn't lifting much of anything. More time passed and when I was ready to start lifting weights for strength training again, Michelle was moving to Ames.
I know that I love and need exercise. Even the 2 days a week I was doing wasn't enough but it was all that I would make time for. I kept saying that I was going to get on the treadmill the mornings that Ryan worked out but that never happened either.
When I was reading the June issue of Prevention Magazine, I was encouraged and motivated to start running. After all, I didn't have a lifting partner and I certainly wasn't motivated to do it myself. The "Yes, You Can Run" article had a simple work out schedule. I didn't even try to follow it exactly, but I remembered one thing it said: "run the given distance, taking walking breaks as needed. If you can only run 15-30 seconds at a time to start, that's okay". Well, that was the push I needed. I began running on our driveway. Up and back on our driveway is 1 mile. The first few times, I did a lot of walking, especially on the hill. Over time, I have quickly improved. I don't get to run daily (I am a busy working mom after all), but I make a point to run regularly and take breaks from running when life is crazy or my legs are super sore.
I found that running not only was a source of exercise, but it has also been a source of "me" time. I don't normally give myself that time because there's always something to do around the house, kids that need atttention and love, etc. The quiet run has been great. I put on some running clothes, grab my ipod and get moving. My mind doesn't know how to stop, it's in constant motion. This new running adventure has also been a lesson in being quiet, without all the mind business, and focusing on listening to a podcast or something like that.
As I've run, I've improved. Just the other night when I was dead tired after a full day at work, and a full and hot night of bible school, I was ready for bed. But our bible school shirts had to be laundered. Rather than start laundry, climb two stories of stairs (not a big deal, but I'm lazy at 10pm) to lay in bed and then get up to change laundry, I decided to stay in the basement and run on the dreaded treadmill. (I'd so rather run outside where I can enjoy a breeze and some sunshine on my pale skin). I popped in the earbuds and began listening to a book. As the washer finished it's cycle, I was too busy running and listening to care. It was a slow run because it had been a long break. I only ran a mile but I didn't even get winded. I was so excited. That is, until I clicked over to see how many calories I'd burned. 88. Seriously, that's half a snack! I may enjoy running but I need to burn more calories than that!
Enter Jen, my physical therapist friend.
The next day Jen approached me about working out. We'd chatted about it in the early summer but we both have busy schedules. Jen wanted to start next week. Woo-hoo! I'm super excited about that - the working out, not the getting up early. Maybe a few of the other girls will join us. Now that I'm hooked on running, I'm planning to continue that and incorporate the other stuff back in. After bible school, I'll be eager to go back to core strengthening exercises too! And let's not forget that hubby likes to join me for specific exercise too :)
I know that I love and need exercise. Even the 2 days a week I was doing wasn't enough but it was all that I would make time for. I kept saying that I was going to get on the treadmill the mornings that Ryan worked out but that never happened either.
When I was reading the June issue of Prevention Magazine, I was encouraged and motivated to start running. After all, I didn't have a lifting partner and I certainly wasn't motivated to do it myself. The "Yes, You Can Run" article had a simple work out schedule. I didn't even try to follow it exactly, but I remembered one thing it said: "run the given distance, taking walking breaks as needed. If you can only run 15-30 seconds at a time to start, that's okay". Well, that was the push I needed. I began running on our driveway. Up and back on our driveway is 1 mile. The first few times, I did a lot of walking, especially on the hill. Over time, I have quickly improved. I don't get to run daily (I am a busy working mom after all), but I make a point to run regularly and take breaks from running when life is crazy or my legs are super sore.
I found that running not only was a source of exercise, but it has also been a source of "me" time. I don't normally give myself that time because there's always something to do around the house, kids that need atttention and love, etc. The quiet run has been great. I put on some running clothes, grab my ipod and get moving. My mind doesn't know how to stop, it's in constant motion. This new running adventure has also been a lesson in being quiet, without all the mind business, and focusing on listening to a podcast or something like that.
As I've run, I've improved. Just the other night when I was dead tired after a full day at work, and a full and hot night of bible school, I was ready for bed. But our bible school shirts had to be laundered. Rather than start laundry, climb two stories of stairs (not a big deal, but I'm lazy at 10pm) to lay in bed and then get up to change laundry, I decided to stay in the basement and run on the dreaded treadmill. (I'd so rather run outside where I can enjoy a breeze and some sunshine on my pale skin). I popped in the earbuds and began listening to a book. As the washer finished it's cycle, I was too busy running and listening to care. It was a slow run because it had been a long break. I only ran a mile but I didn't even get winded. I was so excited. That is, until I clicked over to see how many calories I'd burned. 88. Seriously, that's half a snack! I may enjoy running but I need to burn more calories than that!
Enter Jen, my physical therapist friend.
The next day Jen approached me about working out. We'd chatted about it in the early summer but we both have busy schedules. Jen wanted to start next week. Woo-hoo! I'm super excited about that - the working out, not the getting up early. Maybe a few of the other girls will join us. Now that I'm hooked on running, I'm planning to continue that and incorporate the other stuff back in. After bible school, I'll be eager to go back to core strengthening exercises too! And let's not forget that hubby likes to join me for specific exercise too :)
11 August 2010
Untitled... cause I'm too lazy to title this one!
Is it wrong to go to bed at night wishing that God would hold back the light for just a few hours while you catch up on sleep? Friday night I rushed home from work, changed clothes quickly, grabbed my ipod and headed out for a run. Much to my surprise, Ryan wasn’t home with the kids yet. Almost two miles into my run, Ryan still wasn’t home and I began wondering if I should have brought my cell phone along. I made a stop back by the house (I run laps on our long driveway) to grab my cell. Puzzled by the time, I call Ryan who’s on his way home with the kids. I have time to do one more lap.
Here’s where I should have stopped.
But I’m not so smart like that. I was enjoying the sunshine, the time to myself, and the music on my recently added playlist. I started mile number three. Early in my run, my legs hurt. Not the normal ache, but a pain from my knees down. I wondered if it was because I hadn’t ran for 10 days or if it was something else. Knowing the pain in my legs, and the cramp in my side weren’t going away, I opted to mostly walk the last mile.
The last quarter mile was the sweet as I had my two little ones with me. Bethany and Judah wanted to run with mommy in their flip flops. The business of family kept me moving and my muscles warm for the next few hours. That night as I crawled in bed freshly showered, I looked forward to sweet dreams.
I may have had sweet dreams last night but they were regularly disrupted by wakefulness.
Saturday I opted not to run. I was sore and still not sure what the cause was of the tingling and aching in my legs. Not to mention that Saturday I tripped going up the stairs, folded my body in half trying to brace myself and had an awful pain in my lower back. Great. I really don’t want another back injury. Saturday was a busy and frustrating day. We enjoyed a few hours at Sweet Corn Days while our church kicked off the summer Vacation Bible School. Can taking three kids to a kiddie area (bounce house, seed spitting contest and roping a calf all went along with the Saddle Ridge Ranch theme for VBS) with 86 degree humid weather be any fun? How do single parents do it? Needless to say that night I was tired. Shortly after the kids were in bed, I peeled my contacts out, brushed my teeth and headed to bed myself.
Sunday came and introduced itself to me with a kiddo, Scott, who had some question. In my half-asleep state I thought it was a good time to send him back to bed hoping we could all get a little more sleep. I didn’t know that I’d actually be able to fall back asleep and have multiple moments of wakefulness mixed in with the next two hours of sleep. It felt so good to sleep. Anticipating the events of the coming week, sleep couldn’t be a bad idea at all.
I didn’t go to sleep asking God to hold back the light for a few hours. However, I sure am glad that God helped hold my eyelids closed for a long and much enjoyed night of sleep.
It’s now after 10 and we’ve had another full day which included church, a baptism in the river of some dear friends, a wonderfully yummy lunch at the church, setting up for VBS, keeping/entertaining the neighbor boy with cheap water guns, browsing through junk food for supper, reading that same book AGAIN to Bethany, bed time routine, and watching one episode of The Unit. I could use another long night of sleep to be ready for next week. I’m super excited to see how God will show up at the Saddle Ridge Ranch.
P.S. I still haven’t forgotten about the Charity: Water. In fact, I revisited my want list from Tupperware and was fine with wanting all those things. Then the Charity: Water came to mind. What do I want more, some Tupperware that I’ve managed without or clean water for a family in Ethiopia??? Pretty convicting to me but that’s a whole ‘nother post.
Here’s where I should have stopped.
But I’m not so smart like that. I was enjoying the sunshine, the time to myself, and the music on my recently added playlist. I started mile number three. Early in my run, my legs hurt. Not the normal ache, but a pain from my knees down. I wondered if it was because I hadn’t ran for 10 days or if it was something else. Knowing the pain in my legs, and the cramp in my side weren’t going away, I opted to mostly walk the last mile.
The last quarter mile was the sweet as I had my two little ones with me. Bethany and Judah wanted to run with mommy in their flip flops. The business of family kept me moving and my muscles warm for the next few hours. That night as I crawled in bed freshly showered, I looked forward to sweet dreams.
I may have had sweet dreams last night but they were regularly disrupted by wakefulness.
Saturday I opted not to run. I was sore and still not sure what the cause was of the tingling and aching in my legs. Not to mention that Saturday I tripped going up the stairs, folded my body in half trying to brace myself and had an awful pain in my lower back. Great. I really don’t want another back injury. Saturday was a busy and frustrating day. We enjoyed a few hours at Sweet Corn Days while our church kicked off the summer Vacation Bible School. Can taking three kids to a kiddie area (bounce house, seed spitting contest and roping a calf all went along with the Saddle Ridge Ranch theme for VBS) with 86 degree humid weather be any fun? How do single parents do it? Needless to say that night I was tired. Shortly after the kids were in bed, I peeled my contacts out, brushed my teeth and headed to bed myself.
Sunday came and introduced itself to me with a kiddo, Scott, who had some question. In my half-asleep state I thought it was a good time to send him back to bed hoping we could all get a little more sleep. I didn’t know that I’d actually be able to fall back asleep and have multiple moments of wakefulness mixed in with the next two hours of sleep. It felt so good to sleep. Anticipating the events of the coming week, sleep couldn’t be a bad idea at all.
I didn’t go to sleep asking God to hold back the light for a few hours. However, I sure am glad that God helped hold my eyelids closed for a long and much enjoyed night of sleep.
It’s now after 10 and we’ve had another full day which included church, a baptism in the river of some dear friends, a wonderfully yummy lunch at the church, setting up for VBS, keeping/entertaining the neighbor boy with cheap water guns, browsing through junk food for supper, reading that same book AGAIN to Bethany, bed time routine, and watching one episode of The Unit. I could use another long night of sleep to be ready for next week. I’m super excited to see how God will show up at the Saddle Ridge Ranch.
P.S. I still haven’t forgotten about the Charity: Water. In fact, I revisited my want list from Tupperware and was fine with wanting all those things. Then the Charity: Water came to mind. What do I want more, some Tupperware that I’ve managed without or clean water for a family in Ethiopia??? Pretty convicting to me but that’s a whole ‘nother post.
Website Wednesday
For some time now I’ve thought of different things I can share on my blog. Each of them requires time. As a mom with a full-time career, my time is super valuable to me. There’s also things I’d would love to submit to the local paper for a one-time or even a regular column. Again, do I want to prioritize time to that? Though I’d love to do that, I have more important priorities like my husband and kids. So, I’m going to try something new. We’ll see how well it goes.
Website Wednesday.
I have no fancy logo (and believe me I could spend hours coming up with something), no huge connections, no deals worked out with any website. Just a simple desire to share the websites that I find useful, helpful, funny, etc. There are times that I run across something so simple, something I just wish I could have known about long ago.
The first website I want to start with is www.google.com. Now, I’m sure all of you are well aware of google. But do you know all the things you can do on this website? Sure, there are the common ones you see at the header of the home page but google has so much more to offer. Did you know that google has a TRANSLATION PAGE? I’ve used it numerous times when communicating back and forth with friends in Mexico City. DOES GOOGLE HAVE A DESIGN PAGE FOR SHELVING, ETC? There are many facets to google. I would encourage you to search out a few!
With each helpful website, I also want to share one of my favorite reads. Besides hotmail, this is one of the first websites I open in my browser. I love that it’s honest and real even when the reality of what’s being shared is sad. I love that it’s funny and well written, all the time. I love that I can hear her voice when I read it. I love that the picture I get of her personality from her blog, matches her personality in real life. I love that she’s smart and educates herself, that she’s not full of fluff and political correctness. I love that she uses the term “craptastic”. This person writes about a variety of things that might interest you. As of late, posts seem adoption related but give the girl a break, she did just adopt from Ethiopia. So, go on over to Jamey’s blog at www.zehlahlum.blogspot.com and see what you think of it.
Website Wednesday.
I have no fancy logo (and believe me I could spend hours coming up with something), no huge connections, no deals worked out with any website. Just a simple desire to share the websites that I find useful, helpful, funny, etc. There are times that I run across something so simple, something I just wish I could have known about long ago.
The first website I want to start with is www.google.com. Now, I’m sure all of you are well aware of google. But do you know all the things you can do on this website? Sure, there are the common ones you see at the header of the home page but google has so much more to offer. Did you know that google has a TRANSLATION PAGE? I’ve used it numerous times when communicating back and forth with friends in Mexico City. DOES GOOGLE HAVE A DESIGN PAGE FOR SHELVING, ETC? There are many facets to google. I would encourage you to search out a few!
With each helpful website, I also want to share one of my favorite reads. Besides hotmail, this is one of the first websites I open in my browser. I love that it’s honest and real even when the reality of what’s being shared is sad. I love that it’s funny and well written, all the time. I love that I can hear her voice when I read it. I love that the picture I get of her personality from her blog, matches her personality in real life. I love that she’s smart and educates herself, that she’s not full of fluff and political correctness. I love that she uses the term “craptastic”. This person writes about a variety of things that might interest you. As of late, posts seem adoption related but give the girl a break, she did just adopt from Ethiopia. So, go on over to Jamey’s blog at www.zehlahlum.blogspot.com and see what you think of it.
10 August 2010
In a Fog
Night one of Vacation Bible School went super. It was a little late getting home, a quick nightly routine and getting to bed. By time I turned off the light, I was more than ready for some rest. I woke up this morning to a super heavy fog. I couldn't even see the edge of my yard. It was still 5ish and so I rolled over and went back to sleep. When the alarm sounded, it didn't phase me. I woke to Ryan's voice. It was still foggy and I certainly wasn't driving to work in that. As I woke, and the mental fog lifted, I realized that the heavy fog was likely on the inside of our windows. Due to the heavy and warm humid air outside and a window air conditioner running on the inside, it created a fog on our windows. Man, I guess I won't be sleeping in late this morning!
06 August 2010
Charity Water
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For approximately $5,000 a well can be dug that would offer clean water to a community. I can't put into words what this would be worth to a community. However, I do know that I saw the need with my own eyes when we were in Ethiopia. I saw the women and children walking with their jugs (40 lbs when full) to the nearest source of water. I saw them dip the jug into dirty, gross water that you and I wouldn't swim in and carry it home. I saw the women and children bathing in the disease infested water just down stream from where the livestock were drinking. It broke my heart. The images are etched into my mind and bring sadness to my heart. These kids have such potential. They could be teachers, doctors, missionaries. Yet, they may not reach maturity because the unsafe water they drink has e-coli, salmonella, cholera and Hepatitis A.
Today during lunch I was checking out Charity: Water's website. Oh, that's where all those images have come from that I've seen on people's blogs and other places. I was blown away by the work they're doing. I haven't been able to get it out of my mind ALL afternoon.
Did you know that 100% of their donations go directly towards the projects. That's amazing.
I've been thinking a lot lately about how I can get involved. I feel this tug on my heart to go back to Ethiopia and do ministry. After all Ryan and I are trained and educated in a variety of things that can be useful there (veterinary medicine, conservation, gardening, etc). After reading through this today, I'm thinking that this would be a good start. I went to the charity: water website and looked at where in Ethiopia wells have already been dug. Some in the South, but none near where my child is from. None near the Schinschico Hospital (a place that serves LOTS of people in the South). Wouldn't it be cool to see a well go in near the hospital to provide clean water for them and the nearby community members.
I won't be forgetting this anytime soon. Don't be surprised if I try to pull you in so that you too can play a part in providing clean water to a family that desperately needs it.
04 August 2010
Never a dull moment
Today I was home early. We met with our social worker for a required post-adoption visit. Home more than two hours before normal, I grabbed my laptop and began working on a post for our adoption blog. Sitting in the living room, I hear something fall in the next room over. I turn my head and peer through the French doors to see something on the floor. As I’m trying to figure out what could have fallen in the dining room, I hear it. The sound of something spewing out of a bottle. I know exactly what that is. I jump out my seat as quickly as I can and run into the other room to grab up the bottle that burst through the cap and popped the cork - that’s what I saw on the floor. I rush into the kitchen to grab some cleaning supplies. As I come back into the dining room, I see how wide the blast was. It shot the cork clear across the room which is no surprise. The fact that the wine sprayed all across the room surprised and frustrated me. It wasn’t just a cheap bottle of wine. It was a prized bottle of Muscat Wine from the Ramos Torres Winery. When we were visiting the winery in 2008, it was the wine-maker’s first crush of Muscat and hadn’t even been bottled yet. Ryan liked it so when I was there in 2009, I stopped by the tasting room and forked out the cash (the wine-maker is a childhood friend of mine and usually gives me wine) to buy Ryan a little gift. As I began wiping up the mess, I find that its everywhere. Across the table, all over the wood floor, in the centerpiece which is a bowl full of wine corks (ha, ha), down the antique sewing machine and even puddled in the little pull out storage containers of the sewing cabinet. Nice.
Now, I’m not wine-maker or wine-drinker for that matter but I did know enough to put the cork back in the bottle. When Ryan came in the house, he put it in the fridge to chill so he can finish off the remaining wine (yes, there’s about a glass full left) tonight. I’m a little nervous about the other 20 or so bottles that are tipped on their side in my dining room. I guess if I can learn to drink coffee, I can learn to drink wine, right? Currently I flavor my cup of coffee with a packet of hot chocolate mix and some other flavoring. What can I mix with the wine to make it more palatable on my inexperienced palate? You can be sure that next time I’m in Kingsburg, California, I will be stopping by the Ramos Torres Tasting Room to grab another bottle of wine!
Now, I’m not wine-maker or wine-drinker for that matter but I did know enough to put the cork back in the bottle. When Ryan came in the house, he put it in the fridge to chill so he can finish off the remaining wine (yes, there’s about a glass full left) tonight. I’m a little nervous about the other 20 or so bottles that are tipped on their side in my dining room. I guess if I can learn to drink coffee, I can learn to drink wine, right? Currently I flavor my cup of coffee with a packet of hot chocolate mix and some other flavoring. What can I mix with the wine to make it more palatable on my inexperienced palate? You can be sure that next time I’m in Kingsburg, California, I will be stopping by the Ramos Torres Tasting Room to grab another bottle of wine!
02 August 2010
Tasting Central Iowa
*** Okay, so I tried to post this on Monday while borrowing Sharon’s internet. Of course, I was in a hurry and didn’t have much time to post my pre-written thoughts. Unfortunately blogger didn’t like some of the formatting and wouldn’t post. I didn’t have the time or patience to figure it out. So now, I just sat for a few minutes going through the text again to remove some of the auto formatting. Here’s my Monday post:
I had one particular goal for the weekend: for Tera and me to take Grandma out for a few hours to spoil her. Of course I decided to make a weekend out of it. I had places to go, things to do.
Saturday morning Uncle Mike took us downtown to the farmer’s market on Court Avenue. I loved every minute there. That afternoon, Ryan and I took the kids to half priced books and let them pick out a few things. When it was nap time, Tera and I left to pick up Grandma. It was great to spend a few short hours spoiling Grandma - as much as she would let us. It was sweet, in so many ways.
Saturday morning didn’t go perfectly as I planned. I didn’t get a new pair of running shoes. I didn’t get to the African store that has injera. I didn’t get alone time with Ryan. I’m so thankful for our weekend though because I did have a great time with Ryan’s family, with my family. In addition to that, I enjoyed some traditional Dutch pastries.
Sunday was another day full of blessings. We ventured over to my old stomping grounds. Though it wasn’t my stomping grounds for long, Ames was a time in my life that God used to grow me. Ames and Cornerstone Church are more than just our old stomping grounds. My dear friend’s husband recently started his new position with The Salt Company which is part of Cornerstone. Though Michelle has officially lived in Ames since Wednesday, we haven’t connected much this summer and I was excited to visit my friend. More than that though, being at Cornerstone Church was a time for me to be challenged in my walk... to put my words and thoughts into action. In addition to that, I briefly got to meet and chat with Janel. After leaving church, we were able to stop by our friend’s new apartment before heading back to Uncle Mike’s for lunch.
For a while now I’ve jokingly asked Ryan if we can move to Ames. This weekend made me miss living there. Ryan’s Uncle invited us to come more often so I could get my taste of the city. We might just do that... and quarterly may not be enough!
I had one particular goal for the weekend: for Tera and me to take Grandma out for a few hours to spoil her. Of course I decided to make a weekend out of it. I had places to go, things to do.
Saturday morning Uncle Mike took us downtown to the farmer’s market on Court Avenue. I loved every minute there. That afternoon, Ryan and I took the kids to half priced books and let them pick out a few things. When it was nap time, Tera and I left to pick up Grandma. It was great to spend a few short hours spoiling Grandma - as much as she would let us. It was sweet, in so many ways.
Saturday morning didn’t go perfectly as I planned. I didn’t get a new pair of running shoes. I didn’t get to the African store that has injera. I didn’t get alone time with Ryan. I’m so thankful for our weekend though because I did have a great time with Ryan’s family, with my family. In addition to that, I enjoyed some traditional Dutch pastries.
Sunday was another day full of blessings. We ventured over to my old stomping grounds. Though it wasn’t my stomping grounds for long, Ames was a time in my life that God used to grow me. Ames and Cornerstone Church are more than just our old stomping grounds. My dear friend’s husband recently started his new position with The Salt Company which is part of Cornerstone. Though Michelle has officially lived in Ames since Wednesday, we haven’t connected much this summer and I was excited to visit my friend. More than that though, being at Cornerstone Church was a time for me to be challenged in my walk... to put my words and thoughts into action. In addition to that, I briefly got to meet and chat with Janel. After leaving church, we were able to stop by our friend’s new apartment before heading back to Uncle Mike’s for lunch.
For a while now I’ve jokingly asked Ryan if we can move to Ames. This weekend made me miss living there. Ryan’s Uncle invited us to come more often so I could get my taste of the city. We might just do that... and quarterly may not be enough!
29 July 2010
Kids' Friends Thoughts
Yesterday I told you about Scott inviting a friend to join us for the church picnic. Since that time I’ve had lots of questions swirling around in my mind. Thought I’d share a few so that you can comment with your advice, opinion and experience:
I talked to a set of parents for 10 minutes and they allowed me to pick their son up and take him somewhere. Now they may have researched us since we’d left them a note with our names and contact info. They may also just be really trusting parents. Regardless they let me drive off with their son.
The Friday before that after knocking on their door, I suggested to Ryan that we invite the family over for dessert. That way they can get to know us and we can get to know them a little. Ryan wasn’t so sold on it (and he can comment on why).
After the picnic, we dropped Scott’s friend off. While I stood on the porch and chatted with the mother, Scott was invited in to see KB’s bedroom. I told him to make it quick, it was past bed time. That quick trip into the house really got me thinking of several things:
- How do you decide when to let your child go over to another child’s home?
- If you think they’re too young or you don’t know the family, how do you lovingly tell them that your child can’t go?
- Especially when they trusted you with their child?
- Why are we so connected with people just like us and not reaching out to those who don’t naturally fit in our social circle?
My son has only been to one friend’s house. It is our neighbor. We have a relationship with them. We trust them. With Scott getting ready to start kindergarten, this issue is likely to come up in the near future. What do you do? What would you do? I don’t want to be the annoying parent who joins my son and friends at the birthday party but it is my responsibility to protect my child from harm.
I would love to hear your two cents.
I talked to a set of parents for 10 minutes and they allowed me to pick their son up and take him somewhere. Now they may have researched us since we’d left them a note with our names and contact info. They may also just be really trusting parents. Regardless they let me drive off with their son.
The Friday before that after knocking on their door, I suggested to Ryan that we invite the family over for dessert. That way they can get to know us and we can get to know them a little. Ryan wasn’t so sold on it (and he can comment on why).
After the picnic, we dropped Scott’s friend off. While I stood on the porch and chatted with the mother, Scott was invited in to see KB’s bedroom. I told him to make it quick, it was past bed time. That quick trip into the house really got me thinking of several things:
- How do you decide when to let your child go over to another child’s home?
- If you think they’re too young or you don’t know the family, how do you lovingly tell them that your child can’t go?
- Especially when they trusted you with their child?
- Why are we so connected with people just like us and not reaching out to those who don’t naturally fit in our social circle?
My son has only been to one friend’s house. It is our neighbor. We have a relationship with them. We trust them. With Scott getting ready to start kindergarten, this issue is likely to come up in the near future. What do you do? What would you do? I don’t want to be the annoying parent who joins my son and friends at the birthday party but it is my responsibility to protect my child from harm.
I would love to hear your two cents.
28 July 2010
Scott's buddy
Cute little KB is one of Scott’s buddies from school. I refer to him as “the legend” since all the kids seem to like and know him. All summer Scott has wanted to invite him over. Because of all that has gone on this summer (adopting a child, back issues, etc), we haven’t had KB over. Scott’s birthday came and I knew I needed to find this sweet little boy. There was no phone number in the book and none of the other PreK moms I know knew how to find him. I called the principal. I know her a little and was sure she’d help me out. When she got home from vacation, she confirmed where KB lives. That initiated the stalking of this little boy and his dad.
With rain coming down at increasing rates, I knocked on two doors to see if one of them was the right place. I got a little washed by the rainfall but no KB. Really wanting my son to have his friend over, I picked Scott up on Friday and we went back to KB’s neighborhood. We knocked on a door and a man answered the door. His uniformed shirt with the name on the pocket told me it wasn’t the right guy. He pointed us to the right residence and off we went. Knocking at KB’s house proved fruitless. Not wanting to disappoint my son, I offered to write a note if he would dictate it. Scott signed his name to the bottom and we laid it on the porch and anchored it down with a shoe. No phone call Friday night. I warned Scott that they might be gone for the weekend. No phone call. Sunday after church, we stalked by one more time. This time KB’s dad answered the door. He was great to tell Scott that they had the note but that KB had been gone all weekend. He saved the note so KB could call when he came home from a weekend with his grandma. J introduced us to his wife, D, and the adults chatted while Scott pretended to be shy.
That evening the boys and I picked up KB and took him to the church picnic. It was so good to see them interact. They’re 5 so when Scott said his daddy was a vet, KB said his daddy was a vet too. When KB didn’t want corn on his plate, neither did Scott. I told Scott to keep close tabs on KB since he doesn’t know the rules of the park. Scott is a good helper and was seen lots of times walking around holding KB by the wrist to make sure they were sticking together like glue. Because they’re several other kids from Scott’s preschool class that attend our church, KB got to see several of his little buddies.
As summer is quickly coming to a close, I’m thankful that Scott was able to have a friend over. Even if it wasn’t for the birthday party, and wasn’t at our house. I also look forward to the next time Scott and KB can get together and play.
With rain coming down at increasing rates, I knocked on two doors to see if one of them was the right place. I got a little washed by the rainfall but no KB. Really wanting my son to have his friend over, I picked Scott up on Friday and we went back to KB’s neighborhood. We knocked on a door and a man answered the door. His uniformed shirt with the name on the pocket told me it wasn’t the right guy. He pointed us to the right residence and off we went. Knocking at KB’s house proved fruitless. Not wanting to disappoint my son, I offered to write a note if he would dictate it. Scott signed his name to the bottom and we laid it on the porch and anchored it down with a shoe. No phone call Friday night. I warned Scott that they might be gone for the weekend. No phone call. Sunday after church, we stalked by one more time. This time KB’s dad answered the door. He was great to tell Scott that they had the note but that KB had been gone all weekend. He saved the note so KB could call when he came home from a weekend with his grandma. J introduced us to his wife, D, and the adults chatted while Scott pretended to be shy.
That evening the boys and I picked up KB and took him to the church picnic. It was so good to see them interact. They’re 5 so when Scott said his daddy was a vet, KB said his daddy was a vet too. When KB didn’t want corn on his plate, neither did Scott. I told Scott to keep close tabs on KB since he doesn’t know the rules of the park. Scott is a good helper and was seen lots of times walking around holding KB by the wrist to make sure they were sticking together like glue. Because they’re several other kids from Scott’s preschool class that attend our church, KB got to see several of his little buddies.
As summer is quickly coming to a close, I’m thankful that Scott was able to have a friend over. Even if it wasn’t for the birthday party, and wasn’t at our house. I also look forward to the next time Scott and KB can get together and play.
23 July 2010
Potty Training
I've read two posts lately about potty training. Jayme's post gave me the encouragement I needed to actually train my kids. It's been a fun process. Lisa's post reminded me that we're not the only ones potty training two kids at one time. Seriously, who does that? Okay, so we're seriously potty training both little ones. On top of that, Scott is having issues and is currently back in pull-ups. Oh, what fun it is at our house.
Okay, so here's the dirty deal about the kids... and I'll try to keep it short. Bethany, the one who screams when we put her on the potty, she's doing excellent. We started in panties on Saturday and had a few days where she WOULD NOT potty on the toilet. Finally Monday morning I picked her sleeping body up out of bed, took her to the toilet and told her she would sit there until she pottied. It worked. Who knew!?!? I wondered how I'd get to work on time if this became a battle of the wills. And know what, it clicked with her then too. By Tuesday she was telling us when she had to go and going by herself. Voila. Not perfect though. She's still gotta figure out how to poop on the toilet so her Dor@ panties don't get dirty.
Judah, is easier in some respects. He's been pottying on the toilet a while now. But he doesn't say when he has to go. He also doesn't have a bladder of steel like his siblings nor has he learned to empty said bladder. So, it's a little more challenging in some respects. But, hey, he's liking his undies too and we're finally not spending as much money on diapers. Yipee!!!
Okay, well its way more detailed than that but I'm trying to keep it short. So there you have it.
Okay, so here's the dirty deal about the kids... and I'll try to keep it short. Bethany, the one who screams when we put her on the potty, she's doing excellent. We started in panties on Saturday and had a few days where she WOULD NOT potty on the toilet. Finally Monday morning I picked her sleeping body up out of bed, took her to the toilet and told her she would sit there until she pottied. It worked. Who knew!?!? I wondered how I'd get to work on time if this became a battle of the wills. And know what, it clicked with her then too. By Tuesday she was telling us when she had to go and going by herself. Voila. Not perfect though. She's still gotta figure out how to poop on the toilet so her Dor@ panties don't get dirty.
Judah, is easier in some respects. He's been pottying on the toilet a while now. But he doesn't say when he has to go. He also doesn't have a bladder of steel like his siblings nor has he learned to empty said bladder. So, it's a little more challenging in some respects. But, hey, he's liking his undies too and we're finally not spending as much money on diapers. Yipee!!!
Okay, well its way more detailed than that but I'm trying to keep it short. So there you have it.
22 July 2010
Cookie Break
Poor child, I’m such a fun momma.
After having much fun on the trampoline with our 99-cent waterguns (the new family activity), it was time to take a break. A cookie break. We sat down on the front steps with our friend JB to enjoy one of my edible-but-no-my-best mint chocolate chip cookies.
After having much fun on the trampoline with our 99-cent waterguns (the new family activity), it was time to take a break. A cookie break. We sat down on the front steps with our friend JB to enjoy one of my edible-but-no-my-best mint chocolate chip cookies.
As I began handing out cookies, Judah started in with his Iwanna-Iwanna request. Being a loving mom, I took out a dried piece of whole-wheat bread and handed it to Judah.
The bread is typically used to keep the cookies soft and moist and this time because my cookies were over well baked, the dried bread and the cookies looked pretty similar. Judah began to chew on his “cookie”. I watched to see how many bites he would take before figuring it out. In his almost-three months of experience here, he’s had cookies. Apparently, he has yet to train his palate to finely-baked family recipe cookies. Bethany saw Judah with his “cookie” and came running up the walk for her share. I played the same little trick on her to see how she would react. She was just a few bites into it when she realized she’d been had. The look on her face was priceless. She traded in her stale bread for a cookie.
Judah on the other hand said his was yummy and requested more. Okay, since I’m a good mom like that, and since I was breaking cookies in half to have enough to go around, I gave him another of those yummy “cookies”.
And then it hit me, I should grab my camera. Of course the pictures don’t do justice to the story. Maybe a video clip would have been better. But now that you know the story, the pictures are much more enjoyable.
If you happen to stop over for a cookie break, I will make sure you get a real mint chocolate chip cookie and I’ll try not to over bake them!
And then it hit me, I should grab my camera. Of course the pictures don’t do justice to the story. Maybe a video clip would have been better. But now that you know the story, the pictures are much more enjoyable.
If you happen to stop over for a cookie break, I will make sure you get a real mint chocolate chip cookie and I’ll try not to over bake them!
T-shirt
For some time I’d been wanting to create a t-shirt that would bring an awareness to orphans. If it made a few bucks, that would be a great way to help fund a future adoption (mine or someone else’s). I had yet to come up with the perfect t-shirt idea. I hadn’t spoken to anyone who could screen print them and I certainly don’t have the design skills to create the shirt.
It was a month or more ago that we were sitting at the table with some friends. One of the girls made a comment that stuck with me. I thought it was a perfect t-shirt idea. I also have these cute bags that I wanted to make to go along with a certain idea about giving. Maybe I needed to focus a little on that.
But with JB’s comment, I haven’t been able to get the t-shirt idea out of my mind. Two weekends ago I came up with a design that I liked. Not perfect but then again I’m no graphic designer. All of a sudden it also seemed like everyone was designing and selling t-shirts. Is this a good time? Who knows? How about those bags?
I still haven’t decided what I’m going to do. I should just call the t-shirt guy I had in mind a get a quote. I should quit making excuses and start working on my bag idea… maybe I’ll go home and do that tonight…
It was a month or more ago that we were sitting at the table with some friends. One of the girls made a comment that stuck with me. I thought it was a perfect t-shirt idea. I also have these cute bags that I wanted to make to go along with a certain idea about giving. Maybe I needed to focus a little on that.
But with JB’s comment, I haven’t been able to get the t-shirt idea out of my mind. Two weekends ago I came up with a design that I liked. Not perfect but then again I’m no graphic designer. All of a sudden it also seemed like everyone was designing and selling t-shirts. Is this a good time? Who knows? How about those bags?
I still haven’t decided what I’m going to do. I should just call the t-shirt guy I had in mind a get a quote. I should quit making excuses and start working on my bag idea… maybe I’ll go home and do that tonight…
16 July 2010
a little bit
So I’ve been reading psalms and proverbs lately. Today, I really like the psalm I read. Since I’m waiting in the doctors office, my bible of choice was e-sword on my computer. It’s Psalm 15 and it’s talking about who can live with or be with God. Those who walk blamelessly, do what is right, and speak truth in your heart. I love the “speaks truth in his heart” part… it’s not just lip-service, it’s an attitude of the heart. Wanna live with God? Then don’t slander others (still working on that Ephesians 4:29 verse), do no evil to your neighbors. These are the people who get to dwell on his holy hill. What a peace and challenge these few verses bring to my heart tonight.
I’m so glad that I couldn’t connect to the wireless here at the doc’s office. I wanted to upload some photos to facebook and catch up on a few blogs. It would’ve been nice to have done that but I would have missed some perfect quiet moments in God’s Word.
As I sit here in the doctor’s office, I can’t help but think of all that’s transpired since last time I was here. Two weeks ago I sat in this office quite a different state of mind. I was in physical pain, and overwhelmed in several areas of my life. The kids were with me in the doctor’s office and I was stressed and losing every ounce of patience God had given me for the day. Our evening didn’t improve at all once we arrived home. I was at the end of my sanity rope when my sweet friend called and intervened on my craziness. I was so sad that night for what that few hours looked like. A stressed out mom, no patience, kids who needed attention, an aching back, and who knows what else. I was at the bottom. One week later was still much of the same. I thought I was going through the motions of life solo with no help from my husband or anyone else. My back was still riddled with pain, I was still stressed and gaining weight and not eating healthy. I felt like I was slowly spiraling down hill, at least a little bit.
That’s frustrating to be in that situation and see it. You know how hard it is to see yourself not be yourself? Because I was so overwhelmed, I was also missing out on so much. My husband was helping and I couldn’t even see it. He was loving me even when I was grouchy. I remember calling a friend and telling her that I wasn’t being myself and she offered to pray for me. About that same time, knowing something had to change, I began seeking after and asking God to draw me closer to Himself.
Things have turned around. I feel like me again. Part of that is that my back pain isn’t so bad right now. It’s a huge help in fact. Part of it is choosing a different perspective on some things. I wish I could sit here (now at home after bible study has finished) and tell you that everything is perfect. It’s not. There are still issues but what helps is that I know I’m a work in progress. And today, progress is moving forward and it feels so good!
I’m so glad that I couldn’t connect to the wireless here at the doc’s office. I wanted to upload some photos to facebook and catch up on a few blogs. It would’ve been nice to have done that but I would have missed some perfect quiet moments in God’s Word.
As I sit here in the doctor’s office, I can’t help but think of all that’s transpired since last time I was here. Two weeks ago I sat in this office quite a different state of mind. I was in physical pain, and overwhelmed in several areas of my life. The kids were with me in the doctor’s office and I was stressed and losing every ounce of patience God had given me for the day. Our evening didn’t improve at all once we arrived home. I was at the end of my sanity rope when my sweet friend called and intervened on my craziness. I was so sad that night for what that few hours looked like. A stressed out mom, no patience, kids who needed attention, an aching back, and who knows what else. I was at the bottom. One week later was still much of the same. I thought I was going through the motions of life solo with no help from my husband or anyone else. My back was still riddled with pain, I was still stressed and gaining weight and not eating healthy. I felt like I was slowly spiraling down hill, at least a little bit.
That’s frustrating to be in that situation and see it. You know how hard it is to see yourself not be yourself? Because I was so overwhelmed, I was also missing out on so much. My husband was helping and I couldn’t even see it. He was loving me even when I was grouchy. I remember calling a friend and telling her that I wasn’t being myself and she offered to pray for me. About that same time, knowing something had to change, I began seeking after and asking God to draw me closer to Himself.
Things have turned around. I feel like me again. Part of that is that my back pain isn’t so bad right now. It’s a huge help in fact. Part of it is choosing a different perspective on some things. I wish I could sit here (now at home after bible study has finished) and tell you that everything is perfect. It’s not. There are still issues but what helps is that I know I’m a work in progress. And today, progress is moving forward and it feels so good!
14 July 2010
Long Night at the Brick House
I was awake watching and praying over my daughter with a million other things circling around my brain... don't forget the checkbook this morning... add frosting to your shopping list... About the time the sun made its daily appearance, I was falling back asleep. With almost 5 hours of sleep, I drug my bottom out of Bethany's twin bed and headed downstairs for a refreshing shower.
Oh how I'm looking forward to today. I might have to try coffee again today just to stay alert! For those parents who are bringing your kiddos tonight to play with mine, don't be surprised if I brew some Ethiopian coffee in this miserably hot and sticky weather!
The New Busy is not the old busy. Search, chat and e-mail from your inbox. Get started.
13 July 2010
funny
There's a guy in our office right now looking at some information on the computer. He's not a computer geek. I just heard him say "oh mighty, they have all 90 states" referring to the map he was looking at. Last I heard, we have more than 90 states... just sayin'
The New Busy is not the too busy. Combine all your e-mail accounts with Hotmail. Get busy.
The New Busy is not the too busy. Combine all your e-mail accounts with Hotmail. Get busy.
12 July 2010
At Work
It was a good and trying weekend. Lots going on in my little head. One of the things that has been on my mind all weekend was Janel's post. Janel was writing about what she's been learning as she read Francis Chan's widely popular book, Crazy Love. I read, rather listened, to the book a year ago or so and wish it would stick more. I want things to change my life, not for a day, or 2 weeks, but to literally change my life. Janel's post has been a fresh reminder of going all for God. I suck at that. But I don't want to.
One of the things she quoted from Francis was: Would you be willing to pray this prayer – God bring me closer to You, whatever it takes….
People who are obsessed with Jesus aren't consumed with their personal safety and comfort above all else. Obsessed people care more about God's kingdom coming to this earth than their own lives being shielded from pain or distress
Well you wouldn't believe how many times this weekend I found myself asking God to bring me closer to him after initially asking for kids with good behavior, safe trips, etc. I recently dug back into daily time in the word. I'm ashamed to admit that I wasn't there daily. I started in the Pslams with the chapter to match the date. It wasn't enough though and I wanted to read more of the Psalms. So yesterday while the kids were watching a movie with their daddy, I climbed on the trampoline, laid in the sunshine and started at chapter 30 of Psalms. And it was as if God specifically opened my bible to that page just for me. I was so right there. Hear O Lord me merciful to me, be my help!
I have lots of recent questions in my head. Are my priorities right? Am I loving my husband how God calls me to love? Why do I have so little patience with my kids? My back hurts and I use it as an excuse. But really, what if God is calling me to be in constant pain? Then I need to learn to deal with it, right?
Then today at my office I had this couple in. They were AMAZING. They were just the encouragement that I needed. The wife was intrigued by all the sayings I had taped to my computer, hung on my wall or otherwise plastered somewhere in my office. And it was fun to watch her be encouraged and challenged by what she was reading and writing down. It's not that often that people sit at my desk asking me about bible verses or sayings. It was fun and I felt like my load was a little lighter today after being able to encourage someone.
I'm so thankful that God cares enough about me to always have an answer, to always offer encouragement and to accept me as I am, a work in progress.
The New Busy think 9 to 5 is a cute idea. Combine multiple calendars with Hotmail. Get busy.
09 July 2010
Loud Chips Bag
I was sitting at an office going-away party/potluck when someone started making the loudest racket at the other end of the table. It was a bag of chips and it was annoying. But, I was busy stuffing my face and didn't let the noise bother me.
Fast forward a few days and the bag of sun-chips is still on the break table. Needing a quick snack (now that I'm back to work and not home eating ALL day), I decide to dig into the bag. It's horribly loud and annoying. Sounds like an alarm going off. Seriously, like someone is going to run in the break room and get me... like I'm a kid with my hand caught in the cookie jar. I grab a few chips and head back to my desk thinking to myself that it's the last time I'll set off that snack alarm!
Fast forward a few more days. I walk into the office and my co-worker has cut the bag in two and is cleaning out the crumbs. Now, he's at least a little smarter than me because he removed half of the noise. As he got up from his desk, he commented on this super loud bag. What I learned has amazed me ALL day so I wanted to share it with you.
First off, the bag is nicely labeled to do all the talking, and not just because it's loud as it rustles around. Sun-chips has
nicely marketed their new product all over the bag, I just didn't pay any attention. Most of what I learned I gathered right off the bag:
- This bag is louder because it is compostable.
- Its the worlds first 100% compostable chip package
- It's made from more than 90% renewable, plant-based materials and it breaks down completely into compost in a hot, active compost pile.
It even shows pictures of the bag at weeks 3, 9, and 13.
This is very intriguing to me. Since I compost at home (I'll admit I don't do the best job because it's not my priority), I decide to take the bag home and try it. But before doing so, I wanted to see what I could find online about the new-to-me idea.
Here's the link to sunchips site that talks about the compostable packaging. You can click on that link to read about their process in creating the bag, ideas on composting, and it even has a link to their Modesto plant (an hour from where I was raised) where they're using solar power in production. Now I don't want to come off as some tree hugger. I'm certainly not that. However I am aware of the benefits of using things like compost to grow a better garden (or weeds in my case), throw away less to the garbage (so my hubby doesn't have to carry so many bags to town) and things like that. I've seen the benefits of teaching hungry, starving people how to garden and compost to sustain themselves. What a gift that can be. I cringe when I thow away stuff in the trash that I know won't break down over time (which is why I have bags full of those stinkin' capri sun pouches in my basement that I'm going to do something crafty with).
So there you have it. I thought it was pretty cool. And from now on, I might buy more sunchips and I might also pay more attention to the packaging.
Happy weekend friends. Love your green, but not overly green, friend.
Fast forward a few days and the bag of sun-chips is still on the break table. Needing a quick snack (now that I'm back to work and not home eating ALL day), I decide to dig into the bag. It's horribly loud and annoying. Sounds like an alarm going off. Seriously, like someone is going to run in the break room and get me... like I'm a kid with my hand caught in the cookie jar. I grab a few chips and head back to my desk thinking to myself that it's the last time I'll set off that snack alarm!
Fast forward a few more days. I walk into the office and my co-worker has cut the bag in two and is cleaning out the crumbs. Now, he's at least a little smarter than me because he removed half of the noise. As he got up from his desk, he commented on this super loud bag. What I learned has amazed me ALL day so I wanted to share it with you.
First off, the bag is nicely labeled to do all the talking, and not just because it's loud as it rustles around. Sun-chips has
nicely marketed their new product all over the bag, I just didn't pay any attention. Most of what I learned I gathered right off the bag:- This bag is louder because it is compostable.
- Its the worlds first 100% compostable chip package
- It's made from more than 90% renewable, plant-based materials and it breaks down completely into compost in a hot, active compost pile.
It even shows pictures of the bag at weeks 3, 9, and 13.
This is very intriguing to me. Since I compost at home (I'll admit I don't do the best job because it's not my priority), I decide to take the bag home and try it. But before doing so, I wanted to see what I could find online about the new-to-me idea.
Here's the link to sunchips site that talks about the compostable packaging. You can click on that link to read about their process in creating the bag, ideas on composting, and it even has a link to their Modesto plant (an hour from where I was raised) where they're using solar power in production. Now I don't want to come off as some tree hugger. I'm certainly not that. However I am aware of the benefits of using things like compost to grow a better garden (or weeds in my case), throw away less to the garbage (so my hubby doesn't have to carry so many bags to town) and things like that. I've seen the benefits of teaching hungry, starving people how to garden and compost to sustain themselves. What a gift that can be. I cringe when I thow away stuff in the trash that I know won't break down over time (which is why I have bags full of those stinkin' capri sun pouches in my basement that I'm going to do something crafty with).
So there you have it. I thought it was pretty cool. And from now on, I might buy more sunchips and I might also pay more attention to the packaging.
Happy weekend friends. Love your green, but not overly green, friend.
My little guy
This was written on Wednesday night but I'm just now getting it posted...
Tonight mom and Ralph kept Scott. They took their grandson fishing. I love that they do this with him. I love to go fishing too but have kind of left this as something special Scott gets to do with his grammy and papa. Tonight Scott caught 1 catfish and 3 other fish. The boy is lucky (except I don’t believe in luck), really blessed (is God really concerned with how many fish my 4 year old catches), or a darn good little fisherman.
It’s funny how we thought having two kids was a hand full prior to bringing Judah home. Now, three kids is a hand full. Supper time is noisy, bath time is slightly chaotic, and bedtime is appreciated by everyone in the house. With one child being gone tonight, having just two kids seems so easy. We only had two kids to care for. Not three. Not three plus two friends (which oddly enough was easier than just our three). Tonight was simple. Ryan fixed supper. After supper we went outside to play a while with the B(arbie) jeep and jump on the trampoline. When the time came for baths, it went seemingly quiet and easy. I even had enough time and patience to paint Bethany’s nails.
It was so easy tonight. It’s not because of Scott. He’s usually the easiest one to care for. Was it because Ryan fixed supper? Or because I didn’t clean up at all after the supper? Or because this week I’ve been more grounded in The Word? Or because I asked someone to pray for my sanity this week? Or maybe you’re like me and think it’s a combination of all of it.
All I know is that I have a major ache in my back (still waiting on God to fix this bulged disk) and no pain medication or muscle relaxers. That in and of itself should cause me to go crazy. But tonight I sit here thankful for my parents who are spending time with Scott, thankful for my hubby who loves and cares for me and resting in the Peace that only God can give in a time like this.
Tonight mom and Ralph kept Scott. They took their grandson fishing. I love that they do this with him. I love to go fishing too but have kind of left this as something special Scott gets to do with his grammy and papa. Tonight Scott caught 1 catfish and 3 other fish. The boy is lucky (except I don’t believe in luck), really blessed (is God really concerned with how many fish my 4 year old catches), or a darn good little fisherman.
It’s funny how we thought having two kids was a hand full prior to bringing Judah home. Now, three kids is a hand full. Supper time is noisy, bath time is slightly chaotic, and bedtime is appreciated by everyone in the house. With one child being gone tonight, having just two kids seems so easy. We only had two kids to care for. Not three. Not three plus two friends (which oddly enough was easier than just our three). Tonight was simple. Ryan fixed supper. After supper we went outside to play a while with the B(arbie) jeep and jump on the trampoline. When the time came for baths, it went seemingly quiet and easy. I even had enough time and patience to paint Bethany’s nails.
It was so easy tonight. It’s not because of Scott. He’s usually the easiest one to care for. Was it because Ryan fixed supper? Or because I didn’t clean up at all after the supper? Or because this week I’ve been more grounded in The Word? Or because I asked someone to pray for my sanity this week? Or maybe you’re like me and think it’s a combination of all of it.
All I know is that I have a major ache in my back (still waiting on God to fix this bulged disk) and no pain medication or muscle relaxers. That in and of itself should cause me to go crazy. But tonight I sit here thankful for my parents who are spending time with Scott, thankful for my hubby who loves and cares for me and resting in the Peace that only God can give in a time like this.
08 July 2010
Our new Dog
Did I tell you about my new dog? Okay, let me preface it real quick. Our faithful dalmation died earlier this spring. It has since been a nice break from feeding, watering, etc. Different times in the last 6 months we've thought about getting a puppy (as is our tradition with each new child in our home). To this point we decided against it.
Then last Friday Tracy called from the clinic:
tracy: Guess what we have here at the clinic
me: an AUSSIE??????
tracy: yes...
It was a stray. The clinic doesn't keep strays. But this dog was recently groomed, still had a bow on it and was my absolute favorite kind of dog. I told Ryan and the next morning while running errands in town, he brought the stray home. Suh-weet. Only we knew it would be temporary. Seriously, someone had to be looking for their dog. So, we told ourselves and our kids, multiple times, that this wasn't our dog and we were just keeping it for a few days. But the dog quickly found a place in my heart. He was actually the same size and color as Mocha would have been at maturity. Well behaved, perfect size, good all around dog. I secretly hoped we could keep him. Worst case scenario, we'd let the owner know that we'd be willing to dog sit in the future.
Monday morning came around and Ryan took "stray" to the clinic with him. The kennel and its contents still in the kitchen. Monday afternoon I got the sad but realistic news that Clark would not be returning to our home. His owners did in fact look for him. Ryan wasn't in the clinic and didn't get to visit with the owner. So that means there was no chit-chat about visitation rights :) , dog-sitting, etc. I was bummed.
Then last night when we were outside playing, there was something missing. It just felt like we should have a dog running around. I think we might be in the hunt for a new dog. We love the australian shepherd, especially the miniature version. Ryan isn't sold on paying for a dog so maybe we can trade veterinary skills or something. I'd rather not have to pay for one but that's life. So, if you know of someone with aussie pups, please please send them my way!
The New Busy think 9 to 5 is a cute idea. Combine multiple calendars with Hotmail. Get busy.
Then last Friday Tracy called from the clinic:
tracy: Guess what we have here at the clinic
me: an AUSSIE??????
tracy: yes...
It was a stray. The clinic doesn't keep strays. But this dog was recently groomed, still had a bow on it and was my absolute favorite kind of dog. I told Ryan and the next morning while running errands in town, he brought the stray home. Suh-weet. Only we knew it would be temporary. Seriously, someone had to be looking for their dog. So, we told ourselves and our kids, multiple times, that this wasn't our dog and we were just keeping it for a few days. But the dog quickly found a place in my heart. He was actually the same size and color as Mocha would have been at maturity. Well behaved, perfect size, good all around dog. I secretly hoped we could keep him. Worst case scenario, we'd let the owner know that we'd be willing to dog sit in the future.
Monday morning came around and Ryan took "stray" to the clinic with him. The kennel and its contents still in the kitchen. Monday afternoon I got the sad but realistic news that Clark would not be returning to our home. His owners did in fact look for him. Ryan wasn't in the clinic and didn't get to visit with the owner. So that means there was no chit-chat about visitation rights :) , dog-sitting, etc. I was bummed.
Then last night when we were outside playing, there was something missing. It just felt like we should have a dog running around. I think we might be in the hunt for a new dog. We love the australian shepherd, especially the miniature version. Ryan isn't sold on paying for a dog so maybe we can trade veterinary skills or something. I'd rather not have to pay for one but that's life. So, if you know of someone with aussie pups, please please send them my way!
The New Busy think 9 to 5 is a cute idea. Combine multiple calendars with Hotmail. Get busy.
Note to Self
If you have to wear a funky brace on your back that you have to remove each time you pee, it might get annoying. You might decide to wear it underneath your panties in the case that the doc puts you on a med that causes you to urinate ALL the time.
And likewise, not that I would ever do this:
If you ever decide to show your client the funky SI/back brace you're having to wear, make sure that your panties aren't pulled up over the brace and sticking out above your waistline of your jeans.
Not that I would know personally.
The New Busy is not the too busy. Combine all your e-mail accounts with Hotmail. Get busy.
And likewise, not that I would ever do this:
If you ever decide to show your client the funky SI/back brace you're having to wear, make sure that your panties aren't pulled up over the brace and sticking out above your waistline of your jeans.
Not that I would know personally.
The New Busy is not the too busy. Combine all your e-mail accounts with Hotmail. Get busy.
07 July 2010
on the run
- Gaining weight sucks and I think I've mentioned that on here recently.
- Running out of muscle relaxers and pain killers at the same exact time sucks.
- Wearing an SI support belt on my waist is heaven sent.
- The muffin top being squeezed out the top of this beuty belt is disgusting.
- Taking prednisone (anti-inflamatory for buldged disk) makes me energized.
- A weekend with friends was wonderful.
- Rain half the weekend smolders the fireworks plans a bit.
- A four-day work week is awesome!
- Missing my friend who hasn't even moved yet makes me sad.
- Having a friend save me from my insanity was heaven sent.
- Knowing the anger my life sometimes brings to God scares me!
- Being able to call out to God for wisdom is heaven sent!
Okay, that's it. It has been a hard few weeks. Back pain has really just brought lots of negativity to my life. Hearing from the doctor that my activity level just doesn't allow healing royally sucked. I have no more time off since going to Ethiopia. Having hope that a few new things will work sounds wonderful. And honestly digging back into the Word, which I've been neglecting, has put me back on pace. It feels so good to have sunshine in my life even though it's bleak outside.
The New Busy is not the too busy. Combine all your e-mail accounts with Hotmail. Get busy.
01 July 2010
Right Now
Right now as I leave the doctor's office, I'm wondering why I volunteered to take the kids with me. Yes, all 3 of them. I did it so Ryan could go to bible study but I think I should have left them at home with someone! They were typical kids and mostly good but the doctor is really quiet and I could hardly hear him let alone retain any information. Next time, they're not coming with me!
A Whole Bag of Stuff
Because I can’t stay still for very long, I sometimes start random projects. Having been gone the past few nights and looking forward to company this weekend, I thought it was time to fold the two baskets of laundry in my dining room.
Then my hard working husband walked past. Without trying, he lured me away from my task.
I went outside to join Ryan on the driveway where he was replacing a broken back board on the basketball hoop with a new one. I stood for a few minutes while my feet grew weary of standing on a hard surface once again.
Maybe helping Ryan will cause a disconnect between my brain and the pain.
Like I can really be of any help! Clamping the pieces together with my bare hands caused increased back pain, I don’t know where to find his extra battery for his drill so he retrieves it, and while he’s gone doing that, I manage to kick over his jar of supplies which promptly breaks and the pieces go all over hiding themselves in the crevasses of the rough concrete and unwanted plants growing up through the cracks.
I’m mechanical, not a ditz. I love to be outside, not in the house. I accel at things I try. This is apparently not my day.
Since I can’t stand still, I begin to clean out my trusty old van (which has joined the 100,000 mile club). I open the door and find a mess. God, did you make any of my children to be anal organized like me? If you did, they surely don’t show it in here (or anywhere else for that matter). I sort through all kinds of stuff. Some of what needs to be pitched and certainly some of it is my mess too. Like those ipod speakers that have been in my van since April sometime, and those old Arnette sunglasses that are missing an ear piece but I just can force myself to throw away because I paid so much for them… 8 years ago. As I dig around and make piles of stuff to be tossed and stuff to keep, I find an old vonmaur paper bag with handles. Perfect. I can now put my nicely organized piles into the one bag I have (because I’m certainly not about to spend my energy going in the house for a second bag).
As I toss out a crusty old French fry I think to myself: seriously how do three children create such a mess?
When all was said and done, I had a bag full of stuff – some of which needed to be pitched and some of which needed to be kept. Scott now has only two ninja turtle toys to play with while he sits solo in the back seat. I don’t think Bethany and Judah were left with any toys to fight over each morning. I carried the bag inside and sat it down by the front door where all other crap gets thrown. One of these days I’ll have enough time in my day to fold the laundry, clean out the van, and put the stuff away. For now it sits in its place on the 100 year old wood floor next to a variety of other things. I immediately grab my laptop out of its place so I can share this randomness with you. As I peer over to it, a used (and even recent) family fun magazine sticks out the top of the bag and I wonder how many random things were taken from the van tonight. I thought I’d share just a few with you:
- A twin air mattress and pump
- rubber t-rex
- at least 5 childrens books
- toy lantern & binoculars
- two pairs of flip flops
- toy bed from a Dora play set
- miracle bubbles
- old Sunday school handouts
- mini magna doodle
- multiple Mickey D’s toys
- half inflated floating device
And of course there were a few things I had to leave in the van:
- 3 camping chairs because they would need to go in the garage and I’m lazy
- those old arnette sunglasses – you can make them work if need be
- several pull-ups for our little guy
- the ice-scraper because taking it out would just require putting it back in the van in a few months.
As I close out so I can finish folding the laundry… or join my hubby upstairs, I’m curious to know two things about you:
1. What’s the most random thing in your vehicle and
2. What’s one thing that should come out of your vehicle but you hang onto it
Then my hard working husband walked past. Without trying, he lured me away from my task.
I went outside to join Ryan on the driveway where he was replacing a broken back board on the basketball hoop with a new one. I stood for a few minutes while my feet grew weary of standing on a hard surface once again.
Maybe helping Ryan will cause a disconnect between my brain and the pain.
Like I can really be of any help! Clamping the pieces together with my bare hands caused increased back pain, I don’t know where to find his extra battery for his drill so he retrieves it, and while he’s gone doing that, I manage to kick over his jar of supplies which promptly breaks and the pieces go all over hiding themselves in the crevasses of the rough concrete and unwanted plants growing up through the cracks.
I’m mechanical, not a ditz. I love to be outside, not in the house. I accel at things I try. This is apparently not my day.
Since I can’t stand still, I begin to clean out my trusty old van (which has joined the 100,000 mile club). I open the door and find a mess. God, did you make any of my children to be anal organized like me? If you did, they surely don’t show it in here (or anywhere else for that matter). I sort through all kinds of stuff. Some of what needs to be pitched and certainly some of it is my mess too. Like those ipod speakers that have been in my van since April sometime, and those old Arnette sunglasses that are missing an ear piece but I just can force myself to throw away because I paid so much for them… 8 years ago. As I dig around and make piles of stuff to be tossed and stuff to keep, I find an old vonmaur paper bag with handles. Perfect. I can now put my nicely organized piles into the one bag I have (because I’m certainly not about to spend my energy going in the house for a second bag).
As I toss out a crusty old French fry I think to myself: seriously how do three children create such a mess?
When all was said and done, I had a bag full of stuff – some of which needed to be pitched and some of which needed to be kept. Scott now has only two ninja turtle toys to play with while he sits solo in the back seat. I don’t think Bethany and Judah were left with any toys to fight over each morning. I carried the bag inside and sat it down by the front door where all other crap gets thrown. One of these days I’ll have enough time in my day to fold the laundry, clean out the van, and put the stuff away. For now it sits in its place on the 100 year old wood floor next to a variety of other things. I immediately grab my laptop out of its place so I can share this randomness with you. As I peer over to it, a used (and even recent) family fun magazine sticks out the top of the bag and I wonder how many random things were taken from the van tonight. I thought I’d share just a few with you:
- A twin air mattress and pump
- rubber t-rex
- at least 5 childrens books
- toy lantern & binoculars
- two pairs of flip flops
- toy bed from a Dora play set
- miracle bubbles
- old Sunday school handouts
- mini magna doodle
- multiple Mickey D’s toys
- half inflated floating device
And of course there were a few things I had to leave in the van:
- 3 camping chairs because they would need to go in the garage and I’m lazy
- those old arnette sunglasses – you can make them work if need be
- several pull-ups for our little guy
- the ice-scraper because taking it out would just require putting it back in the van in a few months.
As I close out so I can finish folding the laundry… or join my hubby upstairs, I’m curious to know two things about you:
1. What’s the most random thing in your vehicle and
2. What’s one thing that should come out of your vehicle but you hang onto it
29 June 2010
Bucket List
Having recently returned to work, I feel like there’s so much that I didn’t get to do while I was on “maternity leave”. In fact, I feel a little robbed of my hard earned vacation. The time went quickly and because of a back injury (I hope to hear back about my MRI tomorrow), there was a lot I didn’t get to do. In the quietness of my day today (yes, all of the 3 minutes I spent in the bathroom counts as quietness) I started thinking of those things I didn’t get to do. Those thoughts turned into other things I want to do. I thought I’d share a few:
- Host an African theme night at the church
- Create a t-shirt for orphan awareness
- Host a party for all my country neighbors (I’ve lived there for 7 years and still don’t know them)
- Learn more about graphic designing
- Sing songs with my family while playing guitar
- Grow a BIG garden
- Home school my children… I think
- Memorize more scripture
- Run a 5k with my girlfriends
- Run a 5k with my husband
What’s holding me back? Why haven’t I done those things? Like most people, I can come up with a million excuses but are they legitimate? What’s really holding me back? As I look at each item above (and it’s by no means a complete list), I think of reasons why I can’t. But with each item I read, I come up with self doubt. African Theme Night – what if no one comes? Orphan t-shirt, what if no one buys? Neighborhood party, what if they don’t come? On and on it goes.
Seriously, why do I doubt like that? Is it healthy? Is it true? Because really, if I would cross some of those things off my list, there is such a reward. African theme night – bring an awareness to my community of what its like other places. Orphan tshirt – raise an awareness and raise money for a future adoption (ours or someone else’s). Neighbor party – love my neighbors.
As my maternity leave quickly passed, I did get some things done. I adopted a child, traveled to two foreign countries, hung out with my dad and nephew, pudle jumped with my kids, hiked a short trail with my kids, co-hosted a purse party for www.haitiancreations.com, hung out with various family members, etc. Though I got some things done, I feel like I could have done more. I want to watch Zack play baseball, take my kids on more picnics, live life. I don’t want to look back on my maternity leave, or my summer, or a year, or a life-time and feel like I wasted it ya know. I want to keep learning, keep serving, keep loving other so I better stop typing and start something…
I would love to hear what’s on your “bucket” list.
- Host an African theme night at the church
- Create a t-shirt for orphan awareness
- Host a party for all my country neighbors (I’ve lived there for 7 years and still don’t know them)
- Learn more about graphic designing
- Sing songs with my family while playing guitar
- Grow a BIG garden
- Home school my children… I think
- Memorize more scripture
- Run a 5k with my girlfriends
- Run a 5k with my husband
What’s holding me back? Why haven’t I done those things? Like most people, I can come up with a million excuses but are they legitimate? What’s really holding me back? As I look at each item above (and it’s by no means a complete list), I think of reasons why I can’t. But with each item I read, I come up with self doubt. African Theme Night – what if no one comes? Orphan t-shirt, what if no one buys? Neighborhood party, what if they don’t come? On and on it goes.
Seriously, why do I doubt like that? Is it healthy? Is it true? Because really, if I would cross some of those things off my list, there is such a reward. African theme night – bring an awareness to my community of what its like other places. Orphan tshirt – raise an awareness and raise money for a future adoption (ours or someone else’s). Neighbor party – love my neighbors.
As my maternity leave quickly passed, I did get some things done. I adopted a child, traveled to two foreign countries, hung out with my dad and nephew, pudle jumped with my kids, hiked a short trail with my kids, co-hosted a purse party for www.haitiancreations.com, hung out with various family members, etc. Though I got some things done, I feel like I could have done more. I want to watch Zack play baseball, take my kids on more picnics, live life. I don’t want to look back on my maternity leave, or my summer, or a year, or a life-time and feel like I wasted it ya know. I want to keep learning, keep serving, keep loving other so I better stop typing and start something…
I would love to hear what’s on your “bucket” list.
28 June 2010
Tell me all you know about Nahum
For those who are church attenders, you might recognize that as a book of the bible. For those who don’t attend church, you’ve likely never even seen the word before. Because I attend church and have (at one time thanks to pledge semester of Alpha Delta Chi), I memorized the names of the books of the bible as they appear in the bible. At one point I’ve even read that book. But hearing the request to tell someone all I know about Nahum, I sit there and say “ummm, ummm, well I think it’s one of the minor prophets. It falls after Micah and before Habbakuk…”. Yikes, this is the second time today I’ve felt like I have a total lack of biblical knowledge. How well can I give an answer for what I believe? Am I saying you have to have Nahum memorized to give an answer? No, but the point is that I’m feeling convicted about my knowledge of and my time in The Word.
As I continued to sit and listen to an i-tunes sermon, I had to turn it off. I minimized i-tunes and opened up e-sword. Listening to a message on God’s Word is good. But my conviction was to know and spend time in scripture. I opened up to the 34th book of the bible and began reading the 3 short chapters. Go read Nahum. It isn’t pretty. The books is about Nahum’s vision concerning Ninevah and man am I glad that I’m not living in Ninevah. After a brief and sad read, I wondered what was up with Ninevah. Why did God have such anger here?
It’s amazing to me how much I sometimes have to force myself to spend time in the Word. Yet every time I open up this book, aka e-Sword - the Sword of the Lord with an electronic edge, I just can’t get enough. This has been a good lesson today. Are you convicted of something in your life? What are you doing about it today?
As I continued to sit and listen to an i-tunes sermon, I had to turn it off. I minimized i-tunes and opened up e-sword. Listening to a message on God’s Word is good. But my conviction was to know and spend time in scripture. I opened up to the 34th book of the bible and began reading the 3 short chapters. Go read Nahum. It isn’t pretty. The books is about Nahum’s vision concerning Ninevah and man am I glad that I’m not living in Ninevah. After a brief and sad read, I wondered what was up with Ninevah. Why did God have such anger here?
It’s amazing to me how much I sometimes have to force myself to spend time in the Word. Yet every time I open up this book, aka e-Sword - the Sword of the Lord with an electronic edge, I just can’t get enough. This has been a good lesson today. Are you convicted of something in your life? What are you doing about it today?
Happy Birthday Princess!
Super Mom here. Okay, okay, it’s not about me but honestly today I felt like I was (expected to be) Super Mom. Mostly I didn’t mind so it was okay. Back to my Princess Peach though.Today my sweet Bethany turned 3. Happy Birthday Miss Bethany. I love my sweet little thang. She’s a doll. We celebrated off and on throughout the day. Since she recently told me I was the best muffin maker, I started the morning crawling out of bed to make muffins for my girl. While those were in the oven, I went to build the castle cake. Only I realized that I didn’t have frosting. That’s a separate story in itself.
Some Sunday mornings are a little rough and stressful. Today was no different. This time because our sweet girl wasn’t feeling so great. She was all dressed up in her sweet princess dress and princess shoes but her normal glow was clouded over with constipation. Poor thing. We were to church, only 10 minutes late, and were greeted by the Pastor who said “don’t worry about sitting down”. I went from the back of the church to standing next to my seated (and timely) husband, to the stage where Judah was given his “new baby in the church” rose.
Back to Miss Bethany.
After church we made a quick run to the grocery store where Ryan bought the items for home-made ice-cream (he didn’t like my store bought stuff which is good because the freezer pushed open and the contents thawed) and I bought frosting.
If this is how our whole day is going to go, I’m going to need a nap.
At the house I threw together a oriental rice stir fry dish. Only I had the wrong seasoning packet which also meant I had no directions but I was plenty hungry. I made lunch as best as I could recall from the one other time I’d made that meal.
This is how our day is going to go isn’t it?
The birthday girl, she wasn’t going to make it to the table and went straight for the nap. That was okay with everyone at the table! Princesses need their beauty rest after all. While she rested, I managed to put together thee ugliest castle cake ever. Seriously.
Normally that would make me crazy. Today, not so much. I knew Bethany would be thrilled even if the corner of the castle had fallen off.
Post nap, my gleaming little beauty had bed head and was in her comfy clothes. She was so cute in her Mexico soccer uniform that I didn’t want to change her. But, pictures were in order and our princess needed to be all beautified.
While Ryan froze ice-cream, I threw together a quick dish of baked chicken alfredo and rolls. I managed to pull that off quite well just as the ice-cream was finishing. Our family plus the grandparents all sat down for a meal together. Before we were done, Bethany was distracted in the other room with a pooping extravaganza. Poor thing. Who cares if she didn’t eat lunch and didn’t eat much supper, let’s eat some cake and ice-cream. Wait, wait, the girl has to blow out some candles and hear all of us sing to her first.
Like clock work, all three of my kids were having issues. Bethany was screaming and pooping as I walked through the room to take Judah to the toilet. Scott had the bathroom occupied and when questioned informed me that he’d pee’d and pooped in his pants. Nice. Got that dealt with and took Judah to the toilet where he did both numbers. Yes, my youngest son is apparently the only one who can sometimes potty on the toilet. I disgress.
Cake and ice-cream was great and I was summoned to the chair to snuggle a sweet little girl while the grandparents helped clean up. The birthday party was about over when I caught this sweet little boy smooching his Grandpa in the kitchen. We ended our night watching Alvin & the Chipmunks while I edited a few photos.Where did that nap go? Oh yeah, those don’t happen or aren’t needed when you’re a super mom. Happy Birthday to our Super daughter, my very own little Princess Peach.
25 June 2010
6 more months
I heard someone say: today is 6 more months until Christmas. First I was interested in entertaining that idea. Wow, it really is only 6 more months until Christmas. Then I wondered if it really has any influence on how I plan. Seriously, why do I even entertain this idea. I love gift giving and watching people open gifts. But really, there is so much more to it... I don't want to spend 6 months planning on the gift giving part all the while not focusing on other important things in life.
24 June 2010
bowels, not bowls
I originally sat down to write this post after putting the kids to bed. The boys went down great. Bethany, not so much. It was partly my fault. Each night we put her down and as I’m walking out the door she begins to whine like a baby. Each night I stop and to figure out what her deal is. It’s the attention but she always seems to have some other excuse. So each night I give her another kiss, or more water, or cover her up again. Always something. Tonight I’d had enough. I told her she was fine and that she needed to go to sleep. I gave her fair warning that if I had to go back into her room, she would get a spank. Not wanting to follow through with the spank, I sat at my computer for a few minutes catching up on your blogs and then proceeded to ignore her desperate cries for attention, even the negative kind, by going downstairs.
By time I finished folding 4 loads of laundry, I’d almost forgotten that I wanted to blog. Now what was it that I wanted to write about?
Ah yes, my kids and their bowels. I know this topic interests all of you [read sarcasm there]. I’ll try to keep it brief. Kid #1 has bowel issues that have existed from day 1. Today he failed at being a big kid and pooped in his undies and didn’t tell anyone for 6 hours. Hello, can we saw “raw bottom”. And he still hasn’t learned. His sister continues to follow in his footsteps. She’ll be 3 on Sunday and still won’t go on the potty. She refuses and right now its not worth the battle. Lately she’s been going well on her own (we’re eating lots of fruit) and is pooping and getting wiped a lot. Hello, can we say raw bottom for her too! Child #3 does great at pottying. Only he doesn’t tell you when he has to go. And unlike his siblings who were dry through the night at 6 months, he’s still not dry at night. Setting a timer has been helping me remember to take Judah. He sits to potty and soon we hope he learns to stand to potty.
Why do my kids have bowel issues? As if that’s not enough, I read on facebook that a buddy of mine pretty much trained her son in 2 weeks and is done with diapers. I, on the other hand, have a 3 year old who won’t sit on the potty without a fit. Nice. I haven’t even really tried with her cause I don’t want her to have a negative impact on her little brother. This hasn’t been a fun learning experience for anyone in this house. I would love any ideas in the potty training arena if you have them.
By time I finished folding 4 loads of laundry, I’d almost forgotten that I wanted to blog. Now what was it that I wanted to write about?
Ah yes, my kids and their bowels. I know this topic interests all of you [read sarcasm there]. I’ll try to keep it brief. Kid #1 has bowel issues that have existed from day 1. Today he failed at being a big kid and pooped in his undies and didn’t tell anyone for 6 hours. Hello, can we saw “raw bottom”. And he still hasn’t learned. His sister continues to follow in his footsteps. She’ll be 3 on Sunday and still won’t go on the potty. She refuses and right now its not worth the battle. Lately she’s been going well on her own (we’re eating lots of fruit) and is pooping and getting wiped a lot. Hello, can we say raw bottom for her too! Child #3 does great at pottying. Only he doesn’t tell you when he has to go. And unlike his siblings who were dry through the night at 6 months, he’s still not dry at night. Setting a timer has been helping me remember to take Judah. He sits to potty and soon we hope he learns to stand to potty.
Why do my kids have bowel issues? As if that’s not enough, I read on facebook that a buddy of mine pretty much trained her son in 2 weeks and is done with diapers. I, on the other hand, have a 3 year old who won’t sit on the potty without a fit. Nice. I haven’t even really tried with her cause I don’t want her to have a negative impact on her little brother. This hasn’t been a fun learning experience for anyone in this house. I would love any ideas in the potty training arena if you have them.
22 June 2010
No belt
I got to work today and realized I didn’t have a belt on. Hmm, that’s not like me, especially when I wear slacks. Fortunately, it was no big deal. I apparently don’t need a belt with these slacks. Maybe it has something to do with the 7 to 9 pounds I’ve gained since we left for Ethiopia. Hmm, now what? Thankfully I realized this before I packed my lunch. It would be so easy to eat less, only it’s not so easy. Last week on the days I went to work, I felt like I was starving all day. A light lunch was too light. And no “snack time” left me hungry. Am I really hungry or have I just trained my body to eat all day long? This morning I packed a crab salad wrap, a little pasta salad and some fruit before I headed to work.
By 10:45 I was hungry. I busted out a crystal light packet, dumped it in my water and took a drink. My goal is to drink something when I feel hungry and maybe that will hold me over for a while. Do you think it will work?
Its 1140am and I’m thinking that noon can’t come soon enough.
I’m not all about diets but I am about eating healthy and treating my body like it’s God’s Temple. If I like to make sure my house is clean before and while I have company, then why wouldn’t I do the same for my body as the Holy Spirit resides in me?
Thank you Lord for the noon whistle in town. I’m free to refuel. Only now I’ve been sitting for an hour listening to a net replay at work. My body hurts from sitting and I desperately need a standing break. I decide to work at my standing work station cause I know that I’m not really starving.
Whether or not I lose weight, I certainly plan to change the shape of my body. Did you know that during a recent visit with my aunt, she asked me if I was pregnant. I so need to work out again. I so need to be accountable about what I eat. I so need to change the shape of my gut so that no one else has to ask me if I’m pregnant :)
At 1215pm I eat my modest but filling lunch. That was awesome. I wanted to go outside and enjoy some warmth and sunshine but I didn’t want to take an official lunch break. Being there a short day today, I needed to keep trudging along.
I got home shortly after 5pm and I still wasn’t hungry. Amazing. I went right into the kitchen to put dishes away and clean up a few leftover dishes from last night. I also managed to eat 5 oreo balls. At least they weren’t dipped in chocolate. Maybe I consumed only 25 grams of fat instead of 37. Yikes.
What was it I said about treating my body like God’s temple? Man did I fail on that one today. I guess its time to get back up and try again tomorrow.
I got to work today and realized I didn’t have a belt on. Hmm, that’s not like me, especially when I wear slacks. Fortunately, it was no big deal. I apparently don’t need a belt with these slacks. Maybe it has something to do with the 7 to 9 pounds I’ve gained since we left for Ethiopia. Hmm, now what? Thankfully I realized this before I packed my lunch. It would be so easy to eat less, only it’s not so easy. Last week on the days I went to work, I felt like I was starving all day. A light lunch was too light. And no “snack time” left me hungry. Am I really hungry or have I just trained my body to eat all day long? This morning I packed a crab salad wrap, a little pasta salad and some fruit before I headed to work.
By 10:45 I was hungry. I busted out a crystal light packet, dumped it in my water and took a drink. My goal is to drink something when I feel hungry and maybe that will hold me over for a while. Do you think it will work?
Its 1140am and I’m thinking that noon can’t come soon enough.
I’m not all about diets but I am about eating healthy and treating my body like it’s God’s Temple. If I like to make sure my house is clean before and while I have company, then why wouldn’t I do the same for my body as the Holy Spirit resides in me?
Thank you Lord for the noon whistle in town. I’m free to refuel. Only now I’ve been sitting for an hour listening to a net replay at work. My body hurts from sitting and I desperately need a standing break. I decide to work at my standing work station cause I know that I’m not really starving.
Whether or not I lose weight, I certainly plan to change the shape of my body. Did you know that during a recent visit with my aunt, she asked me if I was pregnant. I so need to work out again. I so need to be accountable about what I eat. I so need to change the shape of my gut so that no one else has to ask me if I’m pregnant :)
At 1215pm I eat my modest but filling lunch. That was awesome. I wanted to go outside and enjoy some warmth and sunshine but I didn’t want to take an official lunch break. Being there a short day today, I needed to keep trudging along.
I got home shortly after 5pm and I still wasn’t hungry. Amazing. I went right into the kitchen to put dishes away and clean up a few leftover dishes from last night. I also managed to eat 5 oreo balls. At least they weren’t dipped in chocolate. Maybe I consumed only 25 grams of fat instead of 37. Yikes.
What was it I said about treating my body like God’s temple? Man did I fail on that one today. I guess its time to get back up and try again tomorrow.
21 June 2010
Service
Yesterday our pastor shared a message on service. I wish it was up on the web already so I can share it with you. It was a good lesson and certainly applicable to me. His challenge at the end was for us to ask ourselves where are we serving in the church and where can we be serving in the ministries of our church. I first thought about it and couldn’t really come up with anywhere that I was serving. I was taking a break from the youth because my kids are young and can’t be involved in youth. I was taking a break from some activities because I was busy working on Judah’s adoption. I guess I really need to step it up don’t I. It didn’t take me long to realize that I am involved. I was the co-chair, and recently named the chair, of the Missions Committee in our church. I’m also the person who runs the business meetings of our church. So I guess I’m not doing too bad. Regardless, I’m sure there’s an area where I can step it up, right? Yes, there is.
I have one problem with this whole idea. The first thing Pastor said this morning is that some people have served so much that they’re burnt out. That is something that’s on my mind all through the sermon. No doubt we need people to step up and help out in different areas. But that the same time, we’re still a small church. Do we really want to have so many activities that we don’t have time for ourselves, for our families? No doubt I support most of the ministries in our church but I think there’s also a point where we as individuals need to step back and look at the big picture. Yes, take Pastor’s challenge and see where we’re serving. But we also need to remember that we’re human and we have limits. Where can I serve? I can serve in the church but I can also serve my family. After all, my kids are my responsibility to raise and to guide them towards Christ. So when I ask myself how I can be involved in a ministry at church, I also have to ask myself how that will take away from my family.
I’m not at all knocking Pastor’s message. In fact, I was convicted by it and thought it was perfectly appropriate. Jesus did serve his followers. But we also need to acknowledge when we’re doing too much. What are your thoughts on this? How do you find time to serve elsewhere (since many of us serve at work, in the community and/or at church)? Do you take the time to judge how it will affect the rest of you? What questions do you ask yourself?
I have one problem with this whole idea. The first thing Pastor said this morning is that some people have served so much that they’re burnt out. That is something that’s on my mind all through the sermon. No doubt we need people to step up and help out in different areas. But that the same time, we’re still a small church. Do we really want to have so many activities that we don’t have time for ourselves, for our families? No doubt I support most of the ministries in our church but I think there’s also a point where we as individuals need to step back and look at the big picture. Yes, take Pastor’s challenge and see where we’re serving. But we also need to remember that we’re human and we have limits. Where can I serve? I can serve in the church but I can also serve my family. After all, my kids are my responsibility to raise and to guide them towards Christ. So when I ask myself how I can be involved in a ministry at church, I also have to ask myself how that will take away from my family.
I’m not at all knocking Pastor’s message. In fact, I was convicted by it and thought it was perfectly appropriate. Jesus did serve his followers. But we also need to acknowledge when we’re doing too much. What are your thoughts on this? How do you find time to serve elsewhere (since many of us serve at work, in the community and/or at church)? Do you take the time to judge how it will affect the rest of you? What questions do you ask yourself?
13 June 2010
A Quick Update
All’s well on our journey. We’re all transitioning quite well considering the events of the last month. We’ve travelled on a day trip to see family and run errands, a weekend trip a short drive away, and a 5 day trip a long way away. We’ve also enjoyed having my dad here this past week. In the time we’ve been home I managed to do something to my back which has gone on for 3 weeks now. Loving on kiddos and keeping up with a home quickly becomes a difficult task when you physically can’t lift or bend over. So, our transition, and my “maternity” leave, has looked quite different than I expected. The back issue has been a great way for Ryan to connect more with the older two kids and attach more with Judah.We’re all doing great really. I’m so thankful that God knows our limits and doesn’t push us beyond them. Some days I think God is taking me right up to my limit though. It has been a good and difficult lesson as I train and love Judah to recall how patient God is with me, a sinner.
Scott is a wonderful big brother and continues to be in Judah’s face much of the time. Scott is a big helper with Judah and life in general. He’s had to grow up a bit which has been good since he can be a tad bit dependent with things he should be independent about. Bethany is doing well too but taking a little different journey through adjustment. If she loves Judah, she certainly doesn’t show it in an obvious manner. She makes sure to let us know that she needs some focus time too. While she’s dealing with constipation and a raw bottom today, her sweet little brother has had five NASTY diapers. Nice. Judah is doing quite well. He eats like a champ. And if you give him something he likes, he is a bottomless pit. Tonight it was mixed fresh fruit and I had to cut him off. Judah is doing mostly well with toileting. I can see it being an issue of control for him so for now we’re trying to be super encouraging when he goes on the potty.
Seems like we’re holding up too. One of the questions Holt asks us in our follow up questions is about getting enough time together as a couple. Yes, we’re getting time together each night – otherwise known as Ryan watches a TV show on DVD as he winds down and I’m too tired to wind down so I fall asleep next to him. Seriously. I’m looking forward to the new “normal” whenever that happens so we can adjust our time as a couple to that. Since you already know we’re not perfect, I’ll share something else you already know. We have left some room for improvement in our marriage. I could do a better job at respecting my husband, we could improve on praying for and with each other, etc.
I’m thankful for the progress we’ve made as a family and know that we will continue to adjust and move forward; hopefully becoming more like Christ each day. Ya know I pray daily that my kids will love God and love others more each day. It’s
08 June 2010
Thanks Janel
So we all know that I've been out of the blog loop lately. Yesterday I managed to jump online long enough while visiting with my friend Michelle to read an update on our friend Janel's adoption progress. It was so good to read what's going on in their journey. Janel, as I read it aloud to Michelle, I had to stop reading because my emotions got the best of me and I started crying. I turned the screen towards Michelle and we both read. For those of you who aren't following Janel and Jake's journey, check them out: http://team-sullivan.blogspot.com/
Today when I came to town to run a few errands (all 4 kids were quiet if not asleep) while Dad was in charge so I could get a quick break, I popped in on Janel's blog again. It was so fun to read her post about the journey bags. I want to link to it so you can read but I have to preface the link: first let me say that this is by no means a pat on my own back. I don't think I'm some amazing person or that I did such a good deed. I'm me. A sinner saved by grace. A wife who fails miserably but has an understanding family. A person who loves others. Yes, I made a few bags but it's more than that. God has given me the ability to do certain things. All I did was say "yes" to using my small little gift (I'm really not a sewer for those who want to know) and offerring it up to God. I did this by sewing up a few simple bags and praying for the individuals who would receive them as I sewed. True, these bags are going on a journey, but the glory and the credit goes to a God who cares enough about those specific villagers in Ghana to use a nobody like me to cut and sew some fabric.
Now, with that said, I would encourage you to say yes when you feel a tug at your heart to do for someone else. It could be as simple as a meal for a new mom, some potted flowers for an elderly lady, or a visit to a shut-in. Okay, now if you're super board you can go over to Janel's blog, skim through the post about the journey bags as you scroll down and read the real stuff - what God has been doing in their lives as they say "yes Lord, use me" .... http://team-sullivan.blogspot.com
Today when I came to town to run a few errands (all 4 kids were quiet if not asleep) while Dad was in charge so I could get a quick break, I popped in on Janel's blog again. It was so fun to read her post about the journey bags. I want to link to it so you can read but I have to preface the link: first let me say that this is by no means a pat on my own back. I don't think I'm some amazing person or that I did such a good deed. I'm me. A sinner saved by grace. A wife who fails miserably but has an understanding family. A person who loves others. Yes, I made a few bags but it's more than that. God has given me the ability to do certain things. All I did was say "yes" to using my small little gift (I'm really not a sewer for those who want to know) and offerring it up to God. I did this by sewing up a few simple bags and praying for the individuals who would receive them as I sewed. True, these bags are going on a journey, but the glory and the credit goes to a God who cares enough about those specific villagers in Ghana to use a nobody like me to cut and sew some fabric.
Now, with that said, I would encourage you to say yes when you feel a tug at your heart to do for someone else. It could be as simple as a meal for a new mom, some potted flowers for an elderly lady, or a visit to a shut-in. Okay, now if you're super board you can go over to Janel's blog, skim through the post about the journey bags as you scroll down and read the real stuff - what God has been doing in their lives as they say "yes Lord, use me" .... http://team-sullivan.blogspot.com
Time Flies
We've been home a month with Judah. The month has been a busy one. We've seen lots of friends and family both far and here at home. We've been so busy it makes my mind swirl.
Just this week we've seen lots of people. On Friday my Aunt Janie, Aunt Anna and Uncle Johnny drove in for a weekend visit. They've been on a road trip and I'm thankful they made it up our way. I love getting to spend time with my family.
On Saturday I drove to Iowa City to run a few errands and have a "big girl" lunch at Panera with Tera and Betty (a huge thanks to Uncle Mike for taking the boys to McD's so the girls could have a quiet lunch. Another huge thanks to Uncle Mike for meeting me in Iowa City to switch vehicles so I wouldn't have to drive all the way to Prairie City to get my van back!) I left the home of the Hawkeyes and headed to Cedar Rapids where I met my dad and nephew at the airport. It was so good to be able to pick them up. Of course I drug them with me to run a few more errands, before driving home in a downpour.
My Aunts and Uncle who drove in left on Monday morning. My dad is here all week. Last night my nephew came home with us and we played a bit. Today we had plans for a picnic at a local park but we've had a gentle rain all day so we've all been stuck inside.
I'm looking forward to the rest of the week and hoping that the weather man is wrong since I read that we have a half decent day tomorrow and then showers the rest of the week.
Just this week we've seen lots of people. On Friday my Aunt Janie, Aunt Anna and Uncle Johnny drove in for a weekend visit. They've been on a road trip and I'm thankful they made it up our way. I love getting to spend time with my family.
On Saturday I drove to Iowa City to run a few errands and have a "big girl" lunch at Panera with Tera and Betty (a huge thanks to Uncle Mike for taking the boys to McD's so the girls could have a quiet lunch. Another huge thanks to Uncle Mike for meeting me in Iowa City to switch vehicles so I wouldn't have to drive all the way to Prairie City to get my van back!) I left the home of the Hawkeyes and headed to Cedar Rapids where I met my dad and nephew at the airport. It was so good to be able to pick them up. Of course I drug them with me to run a few more errands, before driving home in a downpour.
My Aunts and Uncle who drove in left on Monday morning. My dad is here all week. Last night my nephew came home with us and we played a bit. Today we had plans for a picnic at a local park but we've had a gentle rain all day so we've all been stuck inside.
I'm looking forward to the rest of the week and hoping that the weather man is wrong since I read that we have a half decent day tomorrow and then showers the rest of the week.
02 June 2010
new computer
I have a wonderful hubby who bought me a new laptop for our anniversary. Thanks love. Now you'd think I'd be able to get all caught up on blogging and such but that isn't the case. I'm currently sitting at the motel parking lot using their wi-fi. I had to come to town earlier for xrays on my lovely back issue. Then over to the pharmacy to pick up my muscle relaxer which they wouldn't fill because the pharmacy in DesMoines said they gave me more than they really did. Gotta love the locals, they called right to DM and had them fix it with insurance so I could get my sanity, I mean, muscle relaxer. So as that's getting ready to kick in and do it's job (well, sorta kinda), I'm heading back home to rest while mom keeps the kiddos. Thanks mom.
The New Busy think 9 to 5 is a cute idea. Combine multiple calendars with Hotmail. Get busy.
26 May 2010
My 3 kids
Our [mostly] sweet girl:_compressed.JPG)
and our [mostly] sweet boy:_compressed.JPG)
and our wonderful big brother "helping" his little brother:
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and our [mostly] sweet boy:
and our wonderful big brother "helping" his little brother:
In other news, my back still hurts like mad and now I also have ring worm. Nice.
18 May 2010
Long Overdue
This morning I rummaged through Scott's backpack and found a notice from the library that his book was due back in April. Whoops. It's not the only thing long overdue around here. My blog needs a little attention too. I dropped Scott off at school and the two little ones off at mom's and stopped by for a quick read through my email. Then I took a look at my blog. Well, it needs a little update, especially the family picture at the top. I thought about doing that while at the clinic quick but the whole point of dropping the kids off was so I can clean my house. That's been hard to do with a certain little boy attached to me and with all the running around we've been doing.
So, my goal is to play on the net a while (I have limited time since I didn't bring my cord in for the laptop) and then get home and clean. If I finish that before it's time to get the kids (or more realistically, if I give-in first), then I'll work on some blog updates.
In the mean time, know that I'm loving my time home with my kids. It's been a huge test in patience (which I suck at). Scott has been a great little trooper, Bethany has some minor drama lately and Judah has lots of drama. But, they're kids and it can be expected. I could definitely use some prayer during this time of adjustment and so can the rest of the family I'm sure.
Here's my cute little milk mustache baby...
03 May 2010
Update from Ethiopia
Okay, well this is the first day we have a chance at internet - because we drove 20 minutes to the Hilton where we're also enjoying a nice meal.
We're in Ethiopia and loving it. Judah is absolutely beautiful and we love, love, love him. THe first day he was quiet and was content in our laps. The next time we saw a smile. Then today, he laughed and laughed when I tickled him. It's wonderful getting to know him slowly. Tomorrow we take custody of Judah so we have him 24/7 after that. Tommorrow we also go to the embassy where we're praying they'll give us his passport so we can go home.
We've been to traditional meals and tribal dances (this white girl can't dance but I tried), and saw the countryside. We traveled 6 hours to Durame and got to meet Judah's birthmother. Very emotional and I'm thankful to Ethiopia and Holt for making that happen for us.
It's warm here. Sometimes there's power, sometimes there's not. No toilet paper in the toilet, the water is slightly colored when it comes out of the faucet, etc. But the people are beautiful and we're so thankful for the time we're spending here. With that said, we're ready to get home too!
Please share with others. Keep praying. Thanks!!!
The New Busy think 9 to 5 is a cute idea. Combine multiple calendars with Hotmail. Get busy.
We're in Ethiopia and loving it. Judah is absolutely beautiful and we love, love, love him. THe first day he was quiet and was content in our laps. The next time we saw a smile. Then today, he laughed and laughed when I tickled him. It's wonderful getting to know him slowly. Tomorrow we take custody of Judah so we have him 24/7 after that. Tommorrow we also go to the embassy where we're praying they'll give us his passport so we can go home.
We've been to traditional meals and tribal dances (this white girl can't dance but I tried), and saw the countryside. We traveled 6 hours to Durame and got to meet Judah's birthmother. Very emotional and I'm thankful to Ethiopia and Holt for making that happen for us.
It's warm here. Sometimes there's power, sometimes there's not. No toilet paper in the toilet, the water is slightly colored when it comes out of the faucet, etc. But the people are beautiful and we're so thankful for the time we're spending here. With that said, we're ready to get home too!
Please share with others. Keep praying. Thanks!!!
The New Busy think 9 to 5 is a cute idea. Combine multiple calendars with Hotmail. Get busy.
01 May 2010
Judah
We met our son for the first time yesterday. Head on over to our adotpion blog www.journey4hope.blogspot.com to see if we had a chance to post any pictures or text about our day.
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