Hello, ALL!!
I know it's been 2 months since I last blogged. Not even going to get into the craziness that is my life right now or the ridiculous MISTAKE of changing internet providers and the horrible drama that was for OVER A MONTH--just wanted to get back to blogging somehow and ask you all to pray for me and my family.
I'm in Amarillo tonight. Coby and I planned to drive in from his grandparents after our Christmas celebration with his family to see my grandparents. I tried to call my grandma this morning and no one answered the phone--when we arrived no one was home. After getting in touch with my uncle, I discovered she had been admitted to hospice care at the hospital and things don't look good. I knew she was doing poorly and had home health care come out to help her and my ailing grandfather, but I had no idea she was as sick as she is--apparently it is even a shock to her nurses. The hospice people said she's got not only the emphazema but also pulminary hypertension working against her. Her lungs are just done working. She's at 80% oxygen saturation tonight and in and out--not always comprehending what we are saying and not talking hardly at all. I think she has very little time left.
I chose to stay in town for a few days and sent Coby home with Skyler. Please pray for peace for my grandparents, God's perfect timing in taking her home, and an easy day tomorrow for Chloe Grace as she's with me here and the hospital is a hard place for a baby. Pray also for my uncle--he lost my dad eight years ago, his dad a few years ago, and his wife just five months ago. My grandma is all he has left of family and he's super sad.
I don't think it's a coincidence that I am here in this moment and that her health plummetted this weekend of all weekends. I would also ask that you would pray God would use me to minister to my family in a mighty way. It's kind of an uncomfortable situation, one that was TOTALLY unexpected, and my sweet grandpa is beside himself because of this--he doesn't want to lose her and needs to be able to let go.
So sad--thanks for your prayers. I love all my sisters who lift me up!! Blessings!!
She has emphazema and been on oxygen for a long time, but she's be
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
I've Been Tagged!!!
My friend Dona tagged me, and so I will now oblige...
This is a picture of me during a baby shower thrown for me by my Enrichment Hour class the year I was pregnant with Skyler. How cute am I??? They did good to bring decorations, as seen, and the tiara I'm wearing is now the tiara Skyler wears on her birthday every year.
This is Skyler at 1 year. Cute, isn't she!!?? I actually did have her wear it on the morning of her birthday when she was two and we didn't even have her at our house when she was three (she was at Poppie and Gibbie's), but I should have taken pictures. I'm the queen of not getting the picture when I need it. I need lessons from my sister-in-law!!! Anyhoo, it's my goal for her to wear it as many years as I can possibly convince her to. I want it to be tradition!!! :)
So for this tag....
1. Open your pictures folder.
2. Go to the sixth folder.
3. Open the sixth picture.
4. Import into your blog and tell the story.
I, too, will tag the first five on my blog list, so Adriana, Amy, Angela, (not Dona), Emily, and Jaime, you're it!!!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Again
It happening again this year...
Last night was the first night of many to follow that I had a dream about my dad. It is the same recurring dream. He is still alive, having recovered from cancer, only to pull me aside and tell me that it has returned. What does this mean? Why can't I dream of him in heaven, whole, and exactly like he was before that curse of a disease? Why is he healed and then sick again? Maybe this is just another step of the grieving process--maybe it's just reflection. I don't know. It's sad, though, and it makes me miss him. It makes me remember and wonder and sigh. October is such a hard month for me still.
Daddy, I can't wait to see you in heaven some day. I love you.
Last night was the first night of many to follow that I had a dream about my dad. It is the same recurring dream. He is still alive, having recovered from cancer, only to pull me aside and tell me that it has returned. What does this mean? Why can't I dream of him in heaven, whole, and exactly like he was before that curse of a disease? Why is he healed and then sick again? Maybe this is just another step of the grieving process--maybe it's just reflection. I don't know. It's sad, though, and it makes me miss him. It makes me remember and wonder and sigh. October is such a hard month for me still.
Daddy, I can't wait to see you in heaven some day. I love you.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Um...
Let me just say that accountability is good. I like it. I APPRECIATE IT!! But THREATS are just not nice!!! :) A dear friend, who shall remain nameless, gave me the good kick in the pants I needed last night with a straightforward threat that if I didn't start blogging again, I'd be REMOVED from her list of links on her blog. I'm hurt a little, but it's a good kind of hurt.
I mean, I haven't blogged since July 2nd for crying out loud. Granted, I've had a baby, started working again, married off a sister, gone on vacation, handled a few family crises, and lived "normal" life with two children (which, by the way, is exponentially more work than one kid), but really, who doesn't have the same obligations in her life? You all are such consistent bloggers, and I appreciate you. I must admit I've been quite overwhelmed at my life, but excuses are worthless. I love doing this--I just have to find the time.
So my question....are you still there? If you think my efforts are worth it, will you please leave me some encouragement? I know it's kind of selfish, but it honestly helps me when I have comments. Pitiful, isn't it. My goal is to blog for the sake of blogging, even if no one reads it, but I do love to be read. I think most bloggers do, or they wouldn't even do it in the first place.
SO I ramble. Leave me a comment. I leave you with a picture that depicts my life right now. CRAZY!!!! :)
SO I ramble. Leave me a comment. I leave you with a picture that depicts my life right now. CRAZY!!!! :)
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Life in the Making
Birthday...
Getting ready to go home from the hospital...
Five Weeks Old...
A trip to the Arboretum...
Getting ready to go home from the hospital... 
Two and a half weeks old...
Five Weeks Old...
Skyler taking a nap with the leopard at the zoo...
A trip to the Arboretum...
Taking our first swim...
Sorry some of these pictures are backwards. I've tried and tried to fix them. They look fine on my computer, but don't transfer into Blogger the right way. Oh well. :) And for those of you who were waiting for these, my internet was down for TWO DAYS!!! Technology!!!
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Introducing...
Chloe Grace Selke
Born May 19, 2007 at 12:47 p.m. 8 lbs. 5 oz., 21 inches long. And to think I thought she'd be smaller than her sister! :) More updates to come, hopefully with more pictures.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Those Little Life Moments
Thursday morning I woke up just needing to be held. I wasn't sad or frustrated or overwhelmed, I just needed cuddle time. Coby was in the living room on the couch and so I went in to lay beside him.
There are those moments in your life that for whatever reason leave a lasting impression on you--those moments that are so deep and full of meaning, even though they are so very simple.
Chloe Grace hasn't made much in the way of headlines on my blog yet. Understandably so, she's still in utero and although she does have a personality to me as I am the one carrying her, she is still a bit distant in the way of personal relationships for the time being with her dad, her sister, her family. It's only natural! :) So to describe Chloe Grace to you, let me say that she is a free-mover. She is not restricted or restrained in her movements. I often feel her little hands and feet glide across my belly in one big, huge, swelling motion. She seems to be more laid back than her sister was at this point in development, and obviously a little more content--she's still inside, rather than outside, UNLIKE her sister at her age. Another fascinating thing about her is that she seems to "communicate" to you through movements. As I rub my hand over my belly, I often feel a little nudge and then she'll follow my motion with her little hand or foot. Almost like she's trying to talk to me without saying a word. I was thinking about this in the car on the way home from shopping the other day. I was dwelling on Skyler and how wordy she is--her grand vocabulary for a three year old, her perceptive way of engaging people, especially grown-ups in conversation--and I was wondering how Chloe Grace might be different. In that moment, I felt God say to me, "Some speak without saying a word." An interesting thought to ponder. I wonder what she'll be like--what she'll have to "say" and how she'll communicate differently from her sister. And as I was sitting on the couch with Coby that morning, I was reminded again of that time in the car on the way home.
As I layed there, Coby wrapped his arm around me and gently rubbed my belly. Chloe Grace began to dance under his hand, following the movements and keeping pace. She seemed to be connecting with him on some awesome level I don't yet understand, and that moment, Mommy, Daddy, and Chloe Grace, forever set itself a place in my mind. I remembered sharing moments like these with Skyler, but being so busy and occupied, we've taken very little time to just sit and appreciate our newest little girl. It's a moment I'll remember for always.
Since then, I think God has been speaking to my heart about the tremendous blessing of my family. Coby is such an amazing dad and husband. The closer we get to this birth, the more he loves me in little ways and big ways. I cannot fathom the grace of God in giving me such a man to walk through life with. He's my complete compliment. He's my soul mate, my greatest supporter, and my dearest friend. Skyler is such a blessing to my life. How I see myself in her and oh, the lessons she is teaching me!! She's a fighter, determined and confident, independent and self-assured. She's my little talker--always full of questions and answers. She's my song bird--rarely is there a moment in her day where a song is not on her lips. How I pray that God burns deep in her being the heart of a true worshipper that longs to follow him all the days of her life!!! And as I am getting ready to meet this new little one--by Monday at the latest--I'm so excited to see more of the awesomeness of the blessing of my heavenly Father. I truly am not worthy, but my God is GOOD!!!
So I will seize the day today because tomorrow will be different. I will love and laugh and play, I will contemplate and relax and renew, and as tomorrow comes, with the cares and trials of its own, I will remember THIS day, and last Thursday, and treasure the moments God gives me.
There are those moments in your life that for whatever reason leave a lasting impression on you--those moments that are so deep and full of meaning, even though they are so very simple.
Chloe Grace hasn't made much in the way of headlines on my blog yet. Understandably so, she's still in utero and although she does have a personality to me as I am the one carrying her, she is still a bit distant in the way of personal relationships for the time being with her dad, her sister, her family. It's only natural! :) So to describe Chloe Grace to you, let me say that she is a free-mover. She is not restricted or restrained in her movements. I often feel her little hands and feet glide across my belly in one big, huge, swelling motion. She seems to be more laid back than her sister was at this point in development, and obviously a little more content--she's still inside, rather than outside, UNLIKE her sister at her age. Another fascinating thing about her is that she seems to "communicate" to you through movements. As I rub my hand over my belly, I often feel a little nudge and then she'll follow my motion with her little hand or foot. Almost like she's trying to talk to me without saying a word. I was thinking about this in the car on the way home from shopping the other day. I was dwelling on Skyler and how wordy she is--her grand vocabulary for a three year old, her perceptive way of engaging people, especially grown-ups in conversation--and I was wondering how Chloe Grace might be different. In that moment, I felt God say to me, "Some speak without saying a word." An interesting thought to ponder. I wonder what she'll be like--what she'll have to "say" and how she'll communicate differently from her sister. And as I was sitting on the couch with Coby that morning, I was reminded again of that time in the car on the way home.
As I layed there, Coby wrapped his arm around me and gently rubbed my belly. Chloe Grace began to dance under his hand, following the movements and keeping pace. She seemed to be connecting with him on some awesome level I don't yet understand, and that moment, Mommy, Daddy, and Chloe Grace, forever set itself a place in my mind. I remembered sharing moments like these with Skyler, but being so busy and occupied, we've taken very little time to just sit and appreciate our newest little girl. It's a moment I'll remember for always.
Since then, I think God has been speaking to my heart about the tremendous blessing of my family. Coby is such an amazing dad and husband. The closer we get to this birth, the more he loves me in little ways and big ways. I cannot fathom the grace of God in giving me such a man to walk through life with. He's my complete compliment. He's my soul mate, my greatest supporter, and my dearest friend. Skyler is such a blessing to my life. How I see myself in her and oh, the lessons she is teaching me!! She's a fighter, determined and confident, independent and self-assured. She's my little talker--always full of questions and answers. She's my song bird--rarely is there a moment in her day where a song is not on her lips. How I pray that God burns deep in her being the heart of a true worshipper that longs to follow him all the days of her life!!! And as I am getting ready to meet this new little one--by Monday at the latest--I'm so excited to see more of the awesomeness of the blessing of my heavenly Father. I truly am not worthy, but my God is GOOD!!!
So I will seize the day today because tomorrow will be different. I will love and laugh and play, I will contemplate and relax and renew, and as tomorrow comes, with the cares and trials of its own, I will remember THIS day, and last Thursday, and treasure the moments God gives me.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
MORE Answers for Your Questions
I'm sorry it's been over a week since my last response, but I had the privilege of being the bridesmaid and candle-lighting singer for my good friend Tracy's wedding last weekend at a beautiful little chapel in Kaufman, Texas, on the grounds of The Victorian House. It was such a beautiful place and we had a good time. And now Tracy is married!! Needless to say, though, I was away from blogger world for awhile.
So, let's pick up where we left off...
Do you ever not work?
I guess that all depends on what you consider "work." I do NOT work all the time with my business. I'm with kids about 20 hours a week and try to take only one morning a week to do "paperwork," preferably a day that Skyler is in Mother's Day Out. I am very happy to say that I no longer have clients on Friday afternoons and my appointment load is slowing down considerably, which is good news since I DO work every spare minute to get my self, my child, and my house ready for this new little baby that will be in our house in 4 or less weeks!!! YIKES!!
If you had one day that ANYTHING was possible in your world, what would you do?
Travel to a European spa in the Alps, get pampered like crazy, eat tons of food, drink my new favorite wine that I would discover upon arrival as I was greeted with a bottle of it in my suite, soak in a huge jaccuzzi tub, and get paid to go shopping for myself for hours!!! And did I mention chocolate and movies and some time to read a book? Would I only get a day??? :(
Seriously, though, I would want the privilege of one more day with my dad to introduce him to his grandchildren, talk to him about life, tell him all the things I wish I could have when he was alive, and learn all about the amazing things he experiences in heaven.
What is the funniest thing that has ever happened to you?
Gosh, that's hard. Not to be confused with something embarrassing for me, I guess I would say once when I was working at a photography studio in the mall at the front desk and I apparently caught this guy's attention. He made eye contact with me and then starting bringing his cup up to his mouth for a drink when he missed his mouth and his straw went up his nose. Then, to make matters worse for him, he was trying to recuperate and play it off and didn't see the metal sign that was in front of him and ran into it. The sign and the guy and the drink all landed on the floor with a bang. It was too funny, and he was really cute, so that made it even worse for his pride I'm sure.
What were your dreams for yourself ten years ago? Have those dreams come true?
Ten years ago I wanted to marry Coby, have kids, and be a teacher. And yes, all my dreams did come true...and then some!!
If you could sing a duet with anyone in the world, who would it be? What song would it be?
OH MY GOSH!!! It is so hard to pick just one person!!! I think the first person that pops in my mind, despite her obvious life troubles of the past fifteen years, would be Whitney Houston. I know some people knock her for all the wrong choices she's made, and most of that is legitimate, but the girl has a heart for music like no other. She's a soul icon, and amazingly talented. Plus, who hasn't made mistakes in life? Who am I to judge her? I think just being in a studio with her and sharing a mic for a few hours would be AMAZING!!!!! My voice would hardly compare to hers, but it would be fun to be in a duet with her on a spiritual medley of some kind. Some Brooklyn Tab piece that would show her off and remind her of God's grace and mercy for her life, bless her heart!!! :)
What reality show would you go on? Why?
I would LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE to go on the Amazing Race. I love to travel, I love that kind of competition, and if I had the right partner to come along with me, I think I'd TOTALLY win. It would be awesome to me to see those countries and get to experience, even if only for a few hours, the different cultures of the world. God loves diversity, and I think as an American, I'm very much "in a box" as far as what I've experienced in my life. All I've experienced is good, really, and it would be eye opening to see the other side of the world. SO MUCH FUN!!! Maybe some day when my girls are older, huh? Any takers for a partner? Coby said he'd never do it with me.
Have you ever wanted to move out of the Waco area?
Girl, YES!!! I actually never thought I'd stay in Waco. I always figured that as soon as I was out of MCC, I'd move to a bigger city to go to school. As fate would have it, though, I met Coby in my last semester there. I visited UNT with my mom to see if that's where I should finish my degree, but falling in love with Coby and knowing he was staying in Waco made Baylor a much more attractive option. :) It wasn't a mistake. Waco has been a great place to be young married's--it's right in the middle of big cities so traveling to "fun" is easy--and now that we're parents it's a great place, too. I love that I get to raise Skyler and Chloe Grace in a smaller town around people I've known forever. I like that I can be established in a town and still see people at the HEB to talk about life and how the family is doing. It's a great middle road for us--even though I NEVER thought we'd stay here.
What's the most precious memory you have of your father?
The absolute most treasured memories I have with my dad are nights we'd sit on his bed with a guitar and sheet music in hand and pick out harmonies to songs. Sometimes we'd just sing worship songs or he'd try to teach me how to play guitar. Regardless, it was a great time to connect with him. I remember a short season where my uncle lived with us in the interum of a job change and then they'd both take out the guitars and we'd sit in the living room and listen to them play Texas country music or some Willie Nelson. FUN memories of my childhood, for sure. As I got older, the guitar was replaced with long conversations about life or the bible or funny things in our day, which was still a treasure, but sharing music was a passion we both appreciated.
What do you do in your down time?
Well, honestly I don't get much down time, which is bad. But at the end of the day I do like to sit and watch TV with Coby. I only watch what we DVR, so it's always a good episode!! We're reality show junkies and I'm still hooked on LOST, so it's a fun time to relax. I also like to read, play outside with Skyler, and get lost in the blogger world. I probably should blog as much as I read them, huh!!
So, let's pick up where we left off...
Do you ever not work?
I guess that all depends on what you consider "work." I do NOT work all the time with my business. I'm with kids about 20 hours a week and try to take only one morning a week to do "paperwork," preferably a day that Skyler is in Mother's Day Out. I am very happy to say that I no longer have clients on Friday afternoons and my appointment load is slowing down considerably, which is good news since I DO work every spare minute to get my self, my child, and my house ready for this new little baby that will be in our house in 4 or less weeks!!! YIKES!!
If you had one day that ANYTHING was possible in your world, what would you do?
Travel to a European spa in the Alps, get pampered like crazy, eat tons of food, drink my new favorite wine that I would discover upon arrival as I was greeted with a bottle of it in my suite, soak in a huge jaccuzzi tub, and get paid to go shopping for myself for hours!!! And did I mention chocolate and movies and some time to read a book? Would I only get a day??? :(
Seriously, though, I would want the privilege of one more day with my dad to introduce him to his grandchildren, talk to him about life, tell him all the things I wish I could have when he was alive, and learn all about the amazing things he experiences in heaven.
What is the funniest thing that has ever happened to you?
Gosh, that's hard. Not to be confused with something embarrassing for me, I guess I would say once when I was working at a photography studio in the mall at the front desk and I apparently caught this guy's attention. He made eye contact with me and then starting bringing his cup up to his mouth for a drink when he missed his mouth and his straw went up his nose. Then, to make matters worse for him, he was trying to recuperate and play it off and didn't see the metal sign that was in front of him and ran into it. The sign and the guy and the drink all landed on the floor with a bang. It was too funny, and he was really cute, so that made it even worse for his pride I'm sure.
What were your dreams for yourself ten years ago? Have those dreams come true?
Ten years ago I wanted to marry Coby, have kids, and be a teacher. And yes, all my dreams did come true...and then some!!
If you could sing a duet with anyone in the world, who would it be? What song would it be?
OH MY GOSH!!! It is so hard to pick just one person!!! I think the first person that pops in my mind, despite her obvious life troubles of the past fifteen years, would be Whitney Houston. I know some people knock her for all the wrong choices she's made, and most of that is legitimate, but the girl has a heart for music like no other. She's a soul icon, and amazingly talented. Plus, who hasn't made mistakes in life? Who am I to judge her? I think just being in a studio with her and sharing a mic for a few hours would be AMAZING!!!!! My voice would hardly compare to hers, but it would be fun to be in a duet with her on a spiritual medley of some kind. Some Brooklyn Tab piece that would show her off and remind her of God's grace and mercy for her life, bless her heart!!! :)
What reality show would you go on? Why?
I would LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE to go on the Amazing Race. I love to travel, I love that kind of competition, and if I had the right partner to come along with me, I think I'd TOTALLY win. It would be awesome to me to see those countries and get to experience, even if only for a few hours, the different cultures of the world. God loves diversity, and I think as an American, I'm very much "in a box" as far as what I've experienced in my life. All I've experienced is good, really, and it would be eye opening to see the other side of the world. SO MUCH FUN!!! Maybe some day when my girls are older, huh? Any takers for a partner? Coby said he'd never do it with me.
Have you ever wanted to move out of the Waco area?
Girl, YES!!! I actually never thought I'd stay in Waco. I always figured that as soon as I was out of MCC, I'd move to a bigger city to go to school. As fate would have it, though, I met Coby in my last semester there. I visited UNT with my mom to see if that's where I should finish my degree, but falling in love with Coby and knowing he was staying in Waco made Baylor a much more attractive option. :) It wasn't a mistake. Waco has been a great place to be young married's--it's right in the middle of big cities so traveling to "fun" is easy--and now that we're parents it's a great place, too. I love that I get to raise Skyler and Chloe Grace in a smaller town around people I've known forever. I like that I can be established in a town and still see people at the HEB to talk about life and how the family is doing. It's a great middle road for us--even though I NEVER thought we'd stay here.
What's the most precious memory you have of your father?
The absolute most treasured memories I have with my dad are nights we'd sit on his bed with a guitar and sheet music in hand and pick out harmonies to songs. Sometimes we'd just sing worship songs or he'd try to teach me how to play guitar. Regardless, it was a great time to connect with him. I remember a short season where my uncle lived with us in the interum of a job change and then they'd both take out the guitars and we'd sit in the living room and listen to them play Texas country music or some Willie Nelson. FUN memories of my childhood, for sure. As I got older, the guitar was replaced with long conversations about life or the bible or funny things in our day, which was still a treasure, but sharing music was a passion we both appreciated.
What do you do in your down time?
Well, honestly I don't get much down time, which is bad. But at the end of the day I do like to sit and watch TV with Coby. I only watch what we DVR, so it's always a good episode!! We're reality show junkies and I'm still hooked on LOST, so it's a fun time to relax. I also like to read, play outside with Skyler, and get lost in the blogger world. I probably should blog as much as I read them, huh!!
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Answers to Your Questions
Good Morning!!
Today is a beautiful, crisp Saturday morning, and I am trying to answer a few questions before I head out with my friend Angela to do an outreach with some inner-city kids and our Motion youth choir. It's our first out-of-church event, and I'm excited about it!!!
Since I'm a little pressed for time, I'll try to answer one question from each commenter for now. Thanks for leaving questions!!! I'm HONORED!!
What do you like to do for fun?
I LOVE to travel. That part of my life has seemingly been non-existant with the onset of children and a new business, but that's ok. I'm very sure I'll travel again really soon. I love to go out to eat with family and friends, scrapbook, watch movies, play in the park, sit by a fire and drink coffee, have family outings, go to BUNKO, and be involved in my church--all I do there is fun to me!!
What positive traits do you see in Coby as a father and husband?
Coby loves his girls with all his heart. He makes extra effort to make sure Skyler feels loved by her dad. Even when he's frustrated, he listens to my heart and tries very hard to handle situations with her in a loving way. He is great at the little things--getting Skyler donuts on Saturday mornings, playing with her after work, taking breaks in the middle of the day just to spend a few minutes with her, always telling her he loves her, telling her she's beautiful, and trying hard to make her world as safe as possible. As a husband, he is the most loyal and faithful man I have ever known. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that he is committed to me and the vows we made. He works very hard to earn a good living to provide for us, and I love that he shares his ups and downs in work with me--it makes me feel connected to his world. I love that he's a dreamer and he likes to plan the future with me. He kisses me. He hugs me. He tells me he loves me every day. He is proud of my efforts with my business and he supports what I do for kids 100 percent. He knows it's a passion of my life and he works with me to make it all possible. Overall he's a great guy and I love him!!!
Well, bloggers, my child is in the middle of a melt-down, so I'll have to pick this back up later. Have a great day!
Today is a beautiful, crisp Saturday morning, and I am trying to answer a few questions before I head out with my friend Angela to do an outreach with some inner-city kids and our Motion youth choir. It's our first out-of-church event, and I'm excited about it!!!
Since I'm a little pressed for time, I'll try to answer one question from each commenter for now. Thanks for leaving questions!!! I'm HONORED!!
What do you like to do for fun?
I LOVE to travel. That part of my life has seemingly been non-existant with the onset of children and a new business, but that's ok. I'm very sure I'll travel again really soon. I love to go out to eat with family and friends, scrapbook, watch movies, play in the park, sit by a fire and drink coffee, have family outings, go to BUNKO, and be involved in my church--all I do there is fun to me!!
What positive traits do you see in Coby as a father and husband?
Coby loves his girls with all his heart. He makes extra effort to make sure Skyler feels loved by her dad. Even when he's frustrated, he listens to my heart and tries very hard to handle situations with her in a loving way. He is great at the little things--getting Skyler donuts on Saturday mornings, playing with her after work, taking breaks in the middle of the day just to spend a few minutes with her, always telling her he loves her, telling her she's beautiful, and trying hard to make her world as safe as possible. As a husband, he is the most loyal and faithful man I have ever known. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that he is committed to me and the vows we made. He works very hard to earn a good living to provide for us, and I love that he shares his ups and downs in work with me--it makes me feel connected to his world. I love that he's a dreamer and he likes to plan the future with me. He kisses me. He hugs me. He tells me he loves me every day. He is proud of my efforts with my business and he supports what I do for kids 100 percent. He knows it's a passion of my life and he works with me to make it all possible. Overall he's a great guy and I love him!!!
Well, bloggers, my child is in the middle of a melt-down, so I'll have to pick this back up later. Have a great day!
Thursday, April 10, 2008
The Real Me
I have started to realize over the last few weeks that I am an interesting contradiction. I've kind of thought about this off and on a lot lately, but through a little breakdown in Bible study this week with some of my sweetest gals, I realized that maybe people don't know me as well as I think they do. I'm not an introvert--far from it--and overall I think I'm fairly transparent, but am I really? Do people really know me?
My friend Angela had this great idea to allow people to ask her questions about herself and then she'll post a blog with all the answers. Her reason for the questions is because she "says" she can't think of anything to blog about (Who, out of the two of us, isn't blogging again? Who, out of MOST bloggers in the blogging world struggles with posting blogs at a reasonable pace? Who, out of anyone that claims to blog, is probably the WORST blogger on the planet? NOT Angela, to say the least!!! I think her name is ADRIELLE!!!). But I'm so excited to see her questions and responses, and some other fellow bloggers of mine are seeming to do the same, so this is kind of a tag with good purpose!! For me, it's a chance to be real, to be open, to be honest, and to see if anyone still reads my blog because I blog so sporatically lately!! :)
So, I'm stealing the idea, too, and I'm eager to know if anyone out there wants to know anything about me in particular. Or, tell me, do you think you know me? Could you know me better? Hmmm?
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Easter Fun
I always tend to write about holidays in the wrong order when it comes to blogging. I write other not-so-important stuff first, and then write about the holiday. Usually it's because I'm waiting on myself to upload pictures. They are uploaded, so it's time to write! ;)
Tonight I will share our Easter experience. Easter is one of my favorite holidays. It is such a great time to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice God made in giving his son for me and you on the cross. It's a time to reflect and be thankful--a time to acknowledge the mercy of our God. But, since 2001, I must admit that Easter is hard for me. We found out about my father's terminal cancer on Easter of 2001. It was an incredibly sad day for me--probably one of the top three saddest days ever. Over the years, though, it's been a good time of reflection for me, too. A time to remember all the fun our family had together, to reflect on the Lord's faithfulness to my family, and now that I have a little one of my own, to praise Him for the opportunity of sharing His love with a new generation.
I love traditions and I love that Coby's family is all about them. It is neat to me to see a blending of two worlds in the holiday seasons we encounter as parents from two different families. Unfortunately, Coby was on a business trip this Easter, so Skyler and I did Easter on our own. We still took time to share it with my family, though, and it was so nice!!! We played at Grandma B's house after church with Skyler's cousins and I got some good time visiting with my mom and siblings. I sure am thankful for my family! Thanks, guys, for sharing Easter with me!!
The night before Easter morning, Skyler asked if the Easter bunny was coming to her house. I said yes, and she said,"Will he come inside, Momma?" in a nervous little voice. I said, "No, Sweet Girl, he just knocks on the door and asks if Mommy will give you treats for the morning. Then he hands me your Easter basket and goes home to his Mommy." This seemed to satisfy her, and she said, "Momma, if the Easter bunny comes to bring me treats, I need to leave him somethin'!" I was busy around the house and didn't notice until she had gone to bed that she had left the Easter bunny some treats, too. She shared some of her Easter gift from the next door neighbor and placed them right at the door for him!!
The night before Easter morning, Skyler asked if the Easter bunny was coming to her house. I said yes, and she said,"Will he come inside, Momma?" in a nervous little voice. I said, "No, Sweet Girl, he just knocks on the door and asks if Mommy will give you treats for the morning. Then he hands me your Easter basket and goes home to his Mommy." This seemed to satisfy her, and she said, "Momma, if the Easter bunny comes to bring me treats, I need to leave him somethin'!" I was busy around the house and didn't notice until she had gone to bed that she had left the Easter bunny some treats, too. She shared some of her Easter gift from the next door neighbor and placed them right at the door for him!! 
The next morning she was delighted with all the goodies he left her!!! She especially loved her treats in her new Easter shoes. My girl is ALL ABOUT new shoes!!! This is a Selke/Hennigh tradition that our family can't do without!!
Here's a picture of me and my girl in our Sunday best. We decided to do our Easter egg hunt on Friday night at my nephew's birthday party since Sunday was supposed to be so gross outside. Unfortunately we didn't get pictures, but we did document with our video camera.
One Down...
I'm ELATED!!!! I have finished putting together everything for my taxes, and it's only April 1st!! Glory to GOD!!!! I'm pretty happy about that!
So, I started this week a little disappointed. I wasn't able to get those darn taxes finished last week due to a HUGELY busy day on Thursday, a full client load on Friday, and family time/hosting a shower on Saturday. Sunday was busy with church, visiting with our future part-time nanny, looking at a house, and visiting with Poppie and Gibbie (such a fun, relaxing visit!!). All in all, it was a good time but not one that lent itself to time in front of the computer.
So, I know, this is boring, but it's going somewhere.
I woke up at 4:30 Monday morning so discouraged and frustrated!!! ARGH!!!! I prayed, "Lord, am I ever going to get anything done?" In the quietness of the moment, God reminded me of what Pastor Barry said in church the morning before about discouragement. He said, "If you're discouraged, it's because you've chosen to be in that place. God has something better." It was a good reminder--I whispered, "OK, Lord, I want my day to be your day. You take every single moment and make it what it needs to be. I need to finish taxes and handle a dozen things for work, and I'm not sure how I'm going to fit it all in and be super-mom."
I rolled over and surprisingly fell back to sleep...at peace.
When I woke up at 7:00, I started working away. I decided not to go to bible study, which was a HUGE sacrifice for me, and tried to focus. It was a battle at first. My flesh certainly wanted to win and I felt like pouting, being frustrated, and throwing in the towel. Was all this sacrifice worth it? I felt that little voice inside again--"Turn on praise music." So I did, and you know what? As usual, my whole demeanor and the mood of my house was instantly transformed. Skyler contentedly played by herself, occasionally telling me of the great adventures she was having taking care of her babies and "cooking dinner." She colored me a picture, helped me throw out some old paperwork, and danced around the house humming along to the music in the next room.
Before I knew it we were winding down for nap time. I had taken care of ALL of my responsibilities for work and was mostly finished with my taxes and it wasn't even 2:00. As I laid there with Skyler, I thanked God for this precious moment to cuddle with my little one and rested for a few minutes.
I got up to prepare for my clients that evening...three appointments, all starting at 4:30. As I got ready, one call after another came in from my clients needing to reschedule--I had a TOTALLY free evening at the very last minute!!!
At first, in the flesh, I thought, "Lord, I'm prepared to work! What's the deal?" And then that little voice again..."What about some family time?" I had some other things I wanted to do, but in that moment I knew I was right where I needed to be. I called Coby and we quickly made a plan.
Instead of working like any other Monday night, I had the awesome privilege of watching my child play with her dad at Jumping Party. Then we ate dinner as a family and I was able to tuck my almost three year old into bed, softly singing her to sleep. All in all, it was a perfect day. Not at all what I expected, but every bit what I needed.
Thank you, Father, for taking us to the end of ourselves and showing us what really matters. Thank you for stopping the clamour and distraction of our lives and working your will in our days and weeks--in our every moment. Thank you, God, that I chose to listen to you.
And thank you for helping me finish my taxes! :)
Monday, March 31, 2008
32 Weeks and Counting
Wow. This pregnancy has flown by--a good thing all in all, but now we're down to crunch time. And I am to the point (much earlier than with Skyler, I might add) that I no longer want to be pregnant. On a good note, I can still wear closed toed shoes and, in my rebellion caused by the last pregnancy's HUGE swelling of feet, I wear high heels as much as possible! :) I mean, have you ever seen anything like them? Totally GROSS!!! And painful. Praise the Lord, I have not shared this experience this time. Also, I think I've gained less weight than before, and I seem to be a little more organized with my time--probably because I have more of it now that I'm not a full-time teacher.
On the flip side, though, I find myself waking up in the middle of the night frequently thinking of all the things I have to do--organizing closets, throwing out even MORE stuff, painting, carpeting, getting baby books somewhat in order, making out a birthday plan, finishing a birthday project for Skyler, most recently and necessary--finishing our TAXES that I was supposed to have in to my tax guy last Friday!!! The list is never-ending. I so want Chloe Grace to be at peace when she's born. I want to be able to relax and focus on my family, not be stressed out about having no space and a ton of unfinished work. And this whole nesting instinct is hitting me full throttle!!!! What does that mean? Something? Nothing?
So here is my status as of 32 weeks:
* House is clean, yet unorganized
* Closets are in disarray
* Taxes are unfinished
* Clients are still coming--this is the busiest week of the month for me.
* Skyler's project is still in the "thinking" process
My body:
* Cute feet still :)
* Contractions (some painful) daily
* Still throwing up some mornings :(
* Incredibly round tummy
* Back is only uncomfortable if I sit too long
* Starting to feel pressure
Is she coming early? Our sitter's mom said that God told her I'd deliver 2 weeks early--a possibility since Skyler was 9 days early. Let's believe it!!!!!!!! Real due date: May 26th--prophetic due date--May 12th
So if you have any encouraging words or funny stories about your latest pregnancy, fill me in. Let's dialogue and get my mind off of my world!!! :)
Monday, March 10, 2008
My Daughter
So Skyler has done some funny and amazing things the past few weeks and I thought I'd share.
The other day we were taking inventory of her movies. She said,
"Mom, I've got Cinderella, Monster's Inc., PocaKontas, and Sleeping Dooty."
"Sleeping what?"
"Sleeping Dooty. It's a good one, Mom."
Then, one morning we were getting ready to go to my bible study. She said, "Mommy, where are we going?"
"We're going to bible study!!!" I said emphatically.
"BIBLE STUDY!!!! Oh my gosh, Mom!!! That is AMAZING!!!" I'm glad she's a child in hot pursuit of God's Word!
Then tonight I was chatting with her and Loren the sitter between clients. I had a $20 on the desk from a client and she said, "This is just $20. Here you go, Loren. You can have the $20."
How did she know that? She's not even three yet!!! :)
The other day we were taking inventory of her movies. She said,
"Mom, I've got Cinderella, Monster's Inc., PocaKontas, and Sleeping Dooty."
"Sleeping what?"
"Sleeping Dooty. It's a good one, Mom."
Then, one morning we were getting ready to go to my bible study. She said, "Mommy, where are we going?"
"We're going to bible study!!!" I said emphatically.
"BIBLE STUDY!!!! Oh my gosh, Mom!!! That is AMAZING!!!" I'm glad she's a child in hot pursuit of God's Word!
Then tonight I was chatting with her and Loren the sitter between clients. I had a $20 on the desk from a client and she said, "This is just $20. Here you go, Loren. You can have the $20."
How did she know that? She's not even three yet!!! :)
Monday, February 18, 2008
Longing
The summer before my senior year in high school, I went on a mission trip to Siberia, Russia for a month of my summer. It was a phenomenal, life-changing time for me. It set my feet on a path for the future that I knew would be scattered with hard decisions and difficult times, but would be so rewarding because it was all about what God had planned for my life--his vision, his purpose, his dreams for my heart and my life.
In addition to gaining this insight, I had the most intimate time with God I have ever had in my life. One night while the team was gathered at the Martin's flat for worship together, God spoke a scripture in Song of Solomon to my heart..."How beautiful you are, my darling, my sister, my bride"...and in that moment, through those words and the encouragement of some on my team, I, for the first time, feel like I got a true glimpse of the unconditional, whole-hearted love of my God. The promises he spoke to my heart that night about his faithfulness to me are still so vivid in my mind, and just the thought of the presence of God in that moment still brings tears to my eyes...At that point in life, I felt very un-lovely, un-loveable, and like I had already made some decisions God could never forgive or forget. In that moment, it was all gone. I WAS LOVED.
Maybe that's why I still cry nearly every time I hear "The More I Seek You." I remember a dream I had while in college of God seeing all my sins laid bare before me and telling me to not look at the sin or the incompetence, but instead to look full in his face, directly at his eyes. It was VERY hard for me to do this because of all the shame. He had seen it all, yet in the dream, he clasped my face in his hands, pulled me to him, sat me on his lap, and rocked me like a little child. I still equate God's love in that mental picture--sitting back in His lap, drinking from His cup, feeling Him breathe...what more on earth or heaven could be better than that!!!
So fast forward through college, marriage, a career, and now two children. Obviously life is different. "Stuff" seems to follow behind me, go before me, completely surround me on most days. Life as a "grown up" has proven much more difficult on ALL fronts than I ever expected as a seventeen year old kid whose biggest worry was making it to work on time and graduating in the top ten percent of her class. Life has dealt hands of raw, cutting pain, sheer, exhilarating joy, deep, heartfelt disappointment, and amazing, awesome achievements. It's been a roller coaster. A good one overall, a life that has given me lessons to live by for the rest of my life, even in my short thirty years. And yet, I still feel caught up in life and the details of existence.
But about a year ago, I said, "God, I want to go back to that place. Why can't I love you like that again? Why can't I be in a relationship with you like that once again?" I have to admit, my trust in God has been tested, to the point that I have chosen to hold God at a distance at times, fearing the pain of this-and-such situation (more than one, to be sure) experienced EVER AGAIN would completely destroy me. But what about that place? If God doesn't ever change, can I trust him to hold me again? To speak vision to me? To commune with me? To love me? To forgive me? Dare I say to even make it right, whatever that means?
In my bible study today I shared something with a friend that I had read, and although I still think it was for her and her family, maybe it was also for me. For on this journey of life, I don't want to miss out on what I KNOW is the best love of a lifetime. So I will speak it to myself, as well, realizing the risk and not being willing to know life otherwise.
"Perhaps you've been afraid of God or angry at Him about something but, if you've known intimacy with Him in the past, you're also most likely miserable at this "safe" distance. Invite Him back with the fullnes of His presence and remember the lesson of Obed-Edom [a man given the privilege of housing the Ark of the Covenant for a time during King David's reign]. God cannot abide near you without blessing you. Call for Him. Somewhere in the heavenlies the music is playing, and it's time for you to dance again."
In addition to gaining this insight, I had the most intimate time with God I have ever had in my life. One night while the team was gathered at the Martin's flat for worship together, God spoke a scripture in Song of Solomon to my heart..."How beautiful you are, my darling, my sister, my bride"...and in that moment, through those words and the encouragement of some on my team, I, for the first time, feel like I got a true glimpse of the unconditional, whole-hearted love of my God. The promises he spoke to my heart that night about his faithfulness to me are still so vivid in my mind, and just the thought of the presence of God in that moment still brings tears to my eyes...At that point in life, I felt very un-lovely, un-loveable, and like I had already made some decisions God could never forgive or forget. In that moment, it was all gone. I WAS LOVED.
Maybe that's why I still cry nearly every time I hear "The More I Seek You." I remember a dream I had while in college of God seeing all my sins laid bare before me and telling me to not look at the sin or the incompetence, but instead to look full in his face, directly at his eyes. It was VERY hard for me to do this because of all the shame. He had seen it all, yet in the dream, he clasped my face in his hands, pulled me to him, sat me on his lap, and rocked me like a little child. I still equate God's love in that mental picture--sitting back in His lap, drinking from His cup, feeling Him breathe...what more on earth or heaven could be better than that!!!
So fast forward through college, marriage, a career, and now two children. Obviously life is different. "Stuff" seems to follow behind me, go before me, completely surround me on most days. Life as a "grown up" has proven much more difficult on ALL fronts than I ever expected as a seventeen year old kid whose biggest worry was making it to work on time and graduating in the top ten percent of her class. Life has dealt hands of raw, cutting pain, sheer, exhilarating joy, deep, heartfelt disappointment, and amazing, awesome achievements. It's been a roller coaster. A good one overall, a life that has given me lessons to live by for the rest of my life, even in my short thirty years. And yet, I still feel caught up in life and the details of existence.
But about a year ago, I said, "God, I want to go back to that place. Why can't I love you like that again? Why can't I be in a relationship with you like that once again?" I have to admit, my trust in God has been tested, to the point that I have chosen to hold God at a distance at times, fearing the pain of this-and-such situation (more than one, to be sure) experienced EVER AGAIN would completely destroy me. But what about that place? If God doesn't ever change, can I trust him to hold me again? To speak vision to me? To commune with me? To love me? To forgive me? Dare I say to even make it right, whatever that means?
In my bible study today I shared something with a friend that I had read, and although I still think it was for her and her family, maybe it was also for me. For on this journey of life, I don't want to miss out on what I KNOW is the best love of a lifetime. So I will speak it to myself, as well, realizing the risk and not being willing to know life otherwise.
"Perhaps you've been afraid of God or angry at Him about something but, if you've known intimacy with Him in the past, you're also most likely miserable at this "safe" distance. Invite Him back with the fullnes of His presence and remember the lesson of Obed-Edom [a man given the privilege of housing the Ark of the Covenant for a time during King David's reign]. God cannot abide near you without blessing you. Call for Him. Somewhere in the heavenlies the music is playing, and it's time for you to dance again."
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Kari Jobe-The More I Seek You
http://youtube.com/watch?v=U3GijrnfStk
This is the site on YouTube of one of my favorite worship leaders. She leads at a church in Fort Worth. This video is actually on a recording called Glorious, produced by CFNI in Dallas, which she worked on. SO precious, and such a heart for worship!!
This is the site on YouTube of one of my favorite worship leaders. She leads at a church in Fort Worth. This video is actually on a recording called Glorious, produced by CFNI in Dallas, which she worked on. SO precious, and such a heart for worship!!
JUST REDICULOUS!!!!
Why is it that I haven't posted in EXACTLY a month? Why is it that I seem to never have time to fully enjoy my blogging experience? I don't know, exactly, but it's rediculous. Just REDICULOUS. I simply need to get better at this, and hopeful through divine intervention I will.
So what's been going on the last month? Well, I've averaged 24 hours a week working, which in my book is bordering on too much, Skyler has been having a blast at Mother's Day Out and playing with her sitters Loren and Ariel, we've had a garage sale, we've attended our nephew's birthday party, I've been hard at work with our youth choir (called Motion) practicing and planning outreaches and organizing door prizes for our Women of Highland Women's Retreat, I am attending a great bible study on the Psalms of Ascent by Beth Moore, Coby took a "business trip" to Denver to learn about orthopedic stuff...and ski for two days on a beautiful mountain with perfect powder, and I got the privilege of attending the Women of Faith Conference with my mom, sister, aunt, and grandma last weekend. We also had another sonogram of our sweet Chloe Grace, and she's nearly 2 lbs., VERY active, and has a gorgeous profile. We're counting down the days until she's here...probably me more than anyone. It's hard to believe I've only got 15 weeks to go!!
So, in looking at all the things I've been doing, I guess it's fair to say I've been busy. Let me apologize to all my friends and family who diligently check my blog only to be DISAPPOINTED when it looks the same. FOREVER. I've been exceptionally tired at night lately, and Skyler has had some issues going to sleep all by herself in her princess bed lately, so before I know it, the day is done, and I'm asleep right along with her. I guess I need to look for other times to blog.
OK--for those who tagged me to write seven wierd things about myself...
1. I rub my right foot back and forth in bed at night before I fall asleep. I don't know why I do it, but I've done it since I was a kid. Strange.
2. I have one attached ear lobe and one that is not attached. This is a genetic anomoly and shouldn't be able to happen, but I guess it does.
3. I have one foot that looks like my mom's, and one that looks like my dad's.
4. I don't get squimish about snakes--I actually think they are kind of cool--but I'm incredibly scared of spiders. I would even wrap myself up in my sheets at night as a kid, kind of like a mummy, so that if a spider tried to get to me while I slept, I'd be safe.
5. I really like the smell of gasoline, although I've managed all these years to only smell it from a safe distance. It can really mess you up to smell the stuff out of confined containers, although at times it has been tempting!! :) (Just kidding.)
6. I really hate floating things in drinks, which is unfortunate for a pregnant mom of a toddler who insists on drinking out of a "big girl cup" while she has a mouth full of food. It's led to many a gagging session the past few months. And my drink has been TOTALLY off limits. I also have a hard time letting Skyler look dirty. She's a kid, I know, but even getting dirty at dinner is hard for me.
7. I tend to do everything the hardest way possible. Usually totally by accident, but still. It's hard.
For those who tagged me to write about The Things I love...
* coffee
* chocolate
* taking naps with my babies
* being outside on a beautiful day
* sleeping in a freshly made bed with good-smelling sheets
* the sun
* my friends
* time with my husband
* roses
* ice cream
* music, music, music!! My new fav is worship leader Kari Jobe.
* my new minivan
* my dog Bogey
* Skyler's laugh
* working with kids
I could list a million other things, I think. There's really not much I don't like, but since I'm trying to cram a month worth of blogs in one entry, I better stop while I'm ahead. :)
For those who expect deep insight....
more to come on this, but God is taking me through some very important life lessons right now. One is to look to him, not my circumstances, and the other is to discover the meaning of HOPE in my own life.
In my bible study this semester, we are focusing on the Psalms of Ascent, which are the psalms sung by the Jews on their pilgrimage back to Israel after captivity in Babylon. I love the parallels that I'm drawing between the words of these praises to the Father and the situations in my present-day life. I am realizing how much I stay in the here and now, dwelling on my circumstances and rarely looking into the eyes of my Abba Father to focus on his goodness to me, his mercy, his provision, and his love. I have been blown away, also by the amazing companionship I've found in my small group that gets together to discuss the lessons and pray together. What an amazing blessing they've been to share their hearts and lives with me!! It is a great group of women, and I feel so supported by them!! It's comforting to walk through this time in my life with others experiencing the same things.
In addition, I got so much out of the Women of Faith conference last weekend. The main theme was HOPE, and it was amazing the lessons God was teaching me, intertwining all I've been learning in bible study with the truths of God's ultimate DESIRE for our lives.
So the question to consider in my next blog and what I am pursuing in scripture and meditation right now: "What is the difference between hoping and wishing?"
Are you curious? I'll share more soon.
Thank you, dear ones, for putting up with my late-coming blogs!!! Congrats, MIMI, on the new baby!!! We're excited for you!! And I will try with all my might to blog more, and sooner. Please don't give up me!! Visit again soon!!! :)
So what's been going on the last month? Well, I've averaged 24 hours a week working, which in my book is bordering on too much, Skyler has been having a blast at Mother's Day Out and playing with her sitters Loren and Ariel, we've had a garage sale, we've attended our nephew's birthday party, I've been hard at work with our youth choir (called Motion) practicing and planning outreaches and organizing door prizes for our Women of Highland Women's Retreat, I am attending a great bible study on the Psalms of Ascent by Beth Moore, Coby took a "business trip" to Denver to learn about orthopedic stuff...and ski for two days on a beautiful mountain with perfect powder, and I got the privilege of attending the Women of Faith Conference with my mom, sister, aunt, and grandma last weekend. We also had another sonogram of our sweet Chloe Grace, and she's nearly 2 lbs., VERY active, and has a gorgeous profile. We're counting down the days until she's here...probably me more than anyone. It's hard to believe I've only got 15 weeks to go!!
So, in looking at all the things I've been doing, I guess it's fair to say I've been busy. Let me apologize to all my friends and family who diligently check my blog only to be DISAPPOINTED when it looks the same. FOREVER. I've been exceptionally tired at night lately, and Skyler has had some issues going to sleep all by herself in her princess bed lately, so before I know it, the day is done, and I'm asleep right along with her. I guess I need to look for other times to blog.
OK--for those who tagged me to write seven wierd things about myself...
1. I rub my right foot back and forth in bed at night before I fall asleep. I don't know why I do it, but I've done it since I was a kid. Strange.
2. I have one attached ear lobe and one that is not attached. This is a genetic anomoly and shouldn't be able to happen, but I guess it does.
3. I have one foot that looks like my mom's, and one that looks like my dad's.
4. I don't get squimish about snakes--I actually think they are kind of cool--but I'm incredibly scared of spiders. I would even wrap myself up in my sheets at night as a kid, kind of like a mummy, so that if a spider tried to get to me while I slept, I'd be safe.
5. I really like the smell of gasoline, although I've managed all these years to only smell it from a safe distance. It can really mess you up to smell the stuff out of confined containers, although at times it has been tempting!! :) (Just kidding.)
6. I really hate floating things in drinks, which is unfortunate for a pregnant mom of a toddler who insists on drinking out of a "big girl cup" while she has a mouth full of food. It's led to many a gagging session the past few months. And my drink has been TOTALLY off limits. I also have a hard time letting Skyler look dirty. She's a kid, I know, but even getting dirty at dinner is hard for me.
7. I tend to do everything the hardest way possible. Usually totally by accident, but still. It's hard.
For those who tagged me to write about The Things I love...
* coffee
* chocolate
* taking naps with my babies
* being outside on a beautiful day
* sleeping in a freshly made bed with good-smelling sheets
* the sun
* my friends
* time with my husband
* roses
* ice cream
* music, music, music!! My new fav is worship leader Kari Jobe.
* my new minivan
* my dog Bogey
* Skyler's laugh
* working with kids
I could list a million other things, I think. There's really not much I don't like, but since I'm trying to cram a month worth of blogs in one entry, I better stop while I'm ahead. :)
For those who expect deep insight....
more to come on this, but God is taking me through some very important life lessons right now. One is to look to him, not my circumstances, and the other is to discover the meaning of HOPE in my own life.
In my bible study this semester, we are focusing on the Psalms of Ascent, which are the psalms sung by the Jews on their pilgrimage back to Israel after captivity in Babylon. I love the parallels that I'm drawing between the words of these praises to the Father and the situations in my present-day life. I am realizing how much I stay in the here and now, dwelling on my circumstances and rarely looking into the eyes of my Abba Father to focus on his goodness to me, his mercy, his provision, and his love. I have been blown away, also by the amazing companionship I've found in my small group that gets together to discuss the lessons and pray together. What an amazing blessing they've been to share their hearts and lives with me!! It is a great group of women, and I feel so supported by them!! It's comforting to walk through this time in my life with others experiencing the same things.
In addition, I got so much out of the Women of Faith conference last weekend. The main theme was HOPE, and it was amazing the lessons God was teaching me, intertwining all I've been learning in bible study with the truths of God's ultimate DESIRE for our lives.
So the question to consider in my next blog and what I am pursuing in scripture and meditation right now: "What is the difference between hoping and wishing?"
Are you curious? I'll share more soon.
Thank you, dear ones, for putting up with my late-coming blogs!!! Congrats, MIMI, on the new baby!!! We're excited for you!! And I will try with all my might to blog more, and sooner. Please don't give up me!! Visit again soon!!! :)
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Heaven
This pregnancy, to say the least, has not lent itself to moments of sheer exhilaration and feelings of contentment, peace, or calm. At least not in my stomach. Very few if any foods bring ANY exhilaration, let alone even satisfy my taste buds. Everything tasted pretty yucky for a long time, and although I will say I am getting over this hurdle little by little and puking is now dwindling down to only a handful of times a week, food is still not something I ever desire.
Except for one strange thing. When I'm at a restaurant, I look with longing at the fruity, icy beverages that pass me going to other tables. Like strawberry daquiris, margueritas, and especially pina coladas. Not at all for the alcohol, but instead for that sweet, frozen, slushy fruit taste--it just seems like little piece of heaven to me.
Yesterday I was in the store. On the canned fruit aisle I came across these things called Fruit Freezers and they are real fruit sorbets in individual serving cups.
I had one tonight, while it's 30 degrees outside, and it was A LARGE PIECE OF HEAVEN!!!
Just thought I'd let you all know, in case you're pregnant, getting pregnant, know someone who is pregnant, or really like fruit. Random, I know, but awesome.
Also, another random thing--my friend Angela posted this YouTube video of a young pastor's accidental mess-up in a sermon to what seems like teenagers. I laughed so hard I snorted, so if you don't mind "accidental crassness" and you're in for a laugh, click on her link to the right of this message. His mess up is funny, but his reaction is even more funny!
OK. See. I told you it was random. Goodnight.
Except for one strange thing. When I'm at a restaurant, I look with longing at the fruity, icy beverages that pass me going to other tables. Like strawberry daquiris, margueritas, and especially pina coladas. Not at all for the alcohol, but instead for that sweet, frozen, slushy fruit taste--it just seems like little piece of heaven to me.
Yesterday I was in the store. On the canned fruit aisle I came across these things called Fruit Freezers and they are real fruit sorbets in individual serving cups.
I had one tonight, while it's 30 degrees outside, and it was A LARGE PIECE OF HEAVEN!!!
Just thought I'd let you all know, in case you're pregnant, getting pregnant, know someone who is pregnant, or really like fruit. Random, I know, but awesome.
Also, another random thing--my friend Angela posted this YouTube video of a young pastor's accidental mess-up in a sermon to what seems like teenagers. I laughed so hard I snorted, so if you don't mind "accidental crassness" and you're in for a laugh, click on her link to the right of this message. His mess up is funny, but his reaction is even more funny!
OK. See. I told you it was random. Goodnight.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
My Guitar Hero Diva
Tonight as we came home from church, it was obvious Skyler was very tired. I took her out of her car seat and she laid her head on my shoulder, paci in mouth and "bank" in hand. I was trying to gingerly take her inside for a quiet, restful, easy night-night time.
When I opened the door, "When You Were Young," by the Killers, was BLARING as Daddy was jammin' to Guitar Hero. Skyler's head immediately raised.
"Daddy, what are you doing?"
"I'm just rockin' out. How are you?"
And her immediate response?
"Daddy!!! I want to rock out with you!!"
She's been pulling her clothes off and head-banging for ten minutes with no end in sight.
What can I say? My girl knows how to party. I wonder when she'll go to bed? ;)
When I opened the door, "When You Were Young," by the Killers, was BLARING as Daddy was jammin' to Guitar Hero. Skyler's head immediately raised.
"Daddy, what are you doing?"
"I'm just rockin' out. How are you?"
And her immediate response?
"Daddy!!! I want to rock out with you!!"
She's been pulling her clothes off and head-banging for ten minutes with no end in sight.
What can I say? My girl knows how to party. I wonder when she'll go to bed? ;)
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
A Visit to the Doctor
One other thing we experienced on New Year's Day that I NEVER want to experience again EVER in my life was rushing Skyler to the ER while out of town. On New Year's Eve, I was holding Bogey's phenylbarbatol (seisure medication) while grabbing Skyler's diaper bag and the lid came off, spilling the contents of the bottle in her bag. I went through the bad twice to make sure I had gotten all the pill but apparently some had gotten stuck on the white plastic backing to her changing pad. She doesn't use a changing pad for herself anymore--just for her babies--and had pulled it out the next day, leaving a small trail of pills on the floor. Luckily my brother-in-law Allan saw them and I quickly realized what they were. When I asked Skyler if she had eaten any, she said she had two and gave her baby two. I hurriedly called poison control, not knowing if she had taken any at all. She didn't have pill residue on her mouth, but I didn't know for sure--every mom's nightmare. Needless to say, we rushed to the ER to be sure.
After a miserable sticking and a quick test of her blood, it was determined she didn't take any pills at all. Praise God!!!! It was very traumatic, but Emily went with us and was so great to be a faithful aunt and hold Skyler much of the time. Skyler was very comforted by her Emmie. She was later impressed with the heart monitor tab placed on her foot (we even got one to match that was on her baby doll's head), the big "blue band-aid," and the red popsicle she enjoyed after we knew we were in the clear.
I learned a huge lesson that day. No matter how careful you try to be, BE MORE CAREFUL!! It was horrible to have all these 'what if's' running through my mind, to feel so helpless and out of control. I'm just so thankful for God's amazing grace to protect her, and she's now convinced that you never take medicine, even pretend, unless Mommy gives it to you. She was a brave girl, but we don't ever want to do that again.
Thanks also to the Powell family for going out of your way to check out the pill bottle for us, bring lunch to the hospital, and check in on us. You guys are the best!!!!!
After the whole ordeal, we wanted to make sure Skyler wasn't afraid of the doctor, so we got a doctor kit for her to practice being a doctor to her babies. It's worked wonderfully well!!
A Very Merry Christmas
Well, it is now the middle of January, and I'm finally taking the time to reflect on this Christmas. All in all I'd say it was a great time!! We started out the break finding out about our little Chloe Grace, probably the biggest highlight for me. There's just something special to me about putting a name to the little person inside of me--knowing if it is a girl or a boy, starting to plan. It's just fun!!! I think the thing I took away from this Christmas more than anything was a deeper appreciation for my family and the connections Coby and I are making with Skyler as each year goes by. Each moment is so precious, and I tried very hard to savor as much of it as I could.Other highlights of my Christmas:
* Visiting with aunts, uncles, and cousins at Grandma and Grandpa's house.
* Watching Grandma's face light up as she spent time with her kids and watched us all enjoy each other's company.
* Hearing Grandpa's "kid version" of the reason for Christmas--again! This time as he talked about a savior coming to earth, Skyler just shook her head as if saying, "You're right, Papa!! Keep preachin' it!" It was too cute!
* Having my sister with me to go Christmas shopping. She was a huge help, and I was more than a little frazzled!!! :)
* Watching my brother finally get to relax and enjoy his family after a tough semester at school--a well-deserved break!!
* Sharing fun conversation with my sister-in-law Crystal and learning from her so many tricks of the mommy trade
* Sharing another Christmas with my sweet husband and being spoiled all over again!!!
* Watching Skyler stand with mouth wide open as she saw what Santa brought her. She had every single toy she got for Christmas out on the floor in front of her and sat amid the mess playing all day long. It was GREAT!!!
* Sitting on the couch holding my mom's hand and visiting on Christmas day
* Hearing my mom's husband Ray share his heart about his commitment to my mom, myself, and especially to my children. He's a good man, and I was very touched by his love.
* Receiving a very special diamond necklace from my in-laws. Coby's three sisters and I each got a necklace, the diamonds taken from his Granny's ring which was given to her on an anniversary from Coby's Pap. I will treasure it forever!
* Spending time with Emily and Allan as they hosted us for the holiday. Emily had a constant supply of food--VERY important to this pregnant mommy--and they were both so fun and hospitable. Thanks, guys!!
* Sharing some precious moments with Sara and Beau. A holiday isn't the same unless we're all together!! :)
* Going shopping with my sister-in-law Amy and my niece Allie. We had fun looking for matching outfits for Skyler and Chloe Grace. Cheesy, I know, but a must when you have two girls. I also enjoyed the time I got to visit with Amy. She always knows how to make me so comfortable and feel so loved!!!
Big accomplishments of the holiday:
* I cleaned and reorganized a bit. I cleaned out my closet of some clothes (Six garbage bags full AND COUNTING!!!), rearranged with Coby after the holiday was over
and....
the biggest accomplishment...
Skyler's BIG GIRL BED. :(
It was so HARD for me!!! She's been asking for a big girl bed for awhile, and I was still rocking her to sleep, which needless to say was getting harder and harder as my belly is getting bigger and bigger, but she's my baby. It needed to happen. And yet, it was a sad, nostalgic day as I remembered how she was so small in the beginning, barely spanning the length of a rolled-up blanket, and now, my 2 1/2 year old intent on a "princess bed." Lord, give me the strength to edure the things I cannot change!!! :) 
As I look back, I know that despite the busyness and stress of it all, Christmas was a huge success for us. And for me, it was so much more than presents under a tree or events to go to. It was a special time for family, for milestones, and for a deeper revelation of the privilege I've been given to be a child of God, an heiress of his throne. It was a good time, and I am thankful!!!
Thursday, January 3, 2008
It's a GIRL!!!
Coby and I visited the doctor right before Christmas and learned that we are having another girl!!! We are so excited!!! I'm sorry for the delay in getting this posted, but the holidays have been crazy and I'm just now getting to a place where I have time to sit and type. Plus I've worked a million and four ways to try to get the sono posted and I still can't figure it out. I'm not the techiest of bloggers.
So anyway, the day we went to the doctor she weighed 7 oz. and looked great. My doctor actually got me in earlier than I was supposed to--she was only 17 weeks and 4 day--so I will have to go back at 25 or 26 weeks for another sonogram, which makes me excited!!! I'll get to see her all cute and fat!!! They will take a few more measurements just to make sure everything checks out okay, but so far so good!!!
What a blessing to have two little girls!!! We're so happy!!!
So anyway, the day we went to the doctor she weighed 7 oz. and looked great. My doctor actually got me in earlier than I was supposed to--she was only 17 weeks and 4 day--so I will have to go back at 25 or 26 weeks for another sonogram, which makes me excited!!! I'll get to see her all cute and fat!!! They will take a few more measurements just to make sure everything checks out okay, but so far so good!!!
What a blessing to have two little girls!!! We're so happy!!!
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