All That is Precious

I Pledge Allegiance...

2009-04-25T19:11:00.002-05:00

Skyler was standing in her chair at the dinner table five minutes ago, alone, because she wouldn't eat at dinner time with everyone else. She was bent over looking at her toes and I hear...

"I pledge allegiance, to the flag, of the United States of America, and to the republic, for which it stands, dalmations, under God, invisible, and liberty and justice for all."

I'm just SOOOO PROUD!!!!

Out of Town

2009-01-02T21:39:00.002-06:00

Well, Grandma passed away on Tuesday night at 11:45. I ended up staying in Amarillo until Monday evening, after a somewhat good report from the doctor. She was at least comfortable and stable--it was just a waiting game at that point since she was not eating or drinking. I'm leaving in the morning with Chloe Grace to fly back for the funeral and will be there just for the day. Please pray for safe travel and easy travel for Chloe. It has been a whirlwind this week--I got home, left again with Coby for New Year's, came home, and I'm leaving again, so she's out of sorts. And she's teething, which is hard for her.

I'm at an interesting emotional place tonight. I'm sure it's grieving of sorts, but it's just a bunch of thoughts--no tears, no sadness--just uneasy and full of questions. I need peace, and I know my God is big enough to provide ALL I need and all my sweet family needs right now. And we're starting a new semester MONDAY!!!???? This holiday is over way too soon.

I hope you are all doing well--I know some of you have experienced much loss yourselves this holiday season, and my prayers are with you. Thanks for being such faithful friends!!

Please PRAY!!!

2008-12-28T22:38:00.002-06:00

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

I've Been Tagged!!!

2008-10-14T21:23:00.005-05:00

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!!!

Again

2008-10-02T21:05:00.002-05:00

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.

Um...

2008-10-01T22:04:00.002-05:00

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!!!! :)

Life in the Making

2008-07-02T13:19:00.015-05:00

Birthday...

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!!!

Introducing...

2008-06-03T15:58:00.002-05:00

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.

Those Little Life Moments

2008-05-17T07:53:00.003-05:00

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.

Answers to Your Questions

2008-04-12T07:57:00.002-05:00

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!

The Real Me

2008-04-10T21:07:00.003-05:00

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?

Easter Fun

2008-04-01T22:14:00.011-05:00

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 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...

2008-04-01T21:44:00.004-05:00

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! :)

32 Weeks and Counting

2008-03-31T07:19:00.003-05:00

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!!! :)

My Daughter

2008-03-10T20:45:00.002-05:00

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!!! :)

Longing

2008-02-18T22:25:00.002-06:00

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."

Kari Jobe-The More I Seek You

2008-02-17T16:34:00.002-06:00

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!!

JUST REDICULOUS!!!!

2008-02-17T15:36:00.002-06:00

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!!! :)

Heaven

2008-01-17T21:48:00.000-06:00

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.

My Guitar Hero Diva

2008-01-16T20:41:00.000-06:00

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? ;)

A Visit to the Doctor

2008-01-15T22:52:00.000-06:00

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

2008-01-15T20:48:00.000-06:00

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!!!

It's a GIRL!!!

2008-01-03T19:57:00.000-06:00

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!!!

Another Mother's Joy

2007-12-17T21:50:00.000-06:00

I frequently visit a blog of a lady I do not know but love to "love." She writes from the heart, and I understand her so very well.

I have begun yet another week nauseated and annoyed at feeling so bad so much of the time. It has gotten better, don't get me wrong, but I think my patience is running thin and my endurance is lagging. Reading this blog of her's tonight made me smile and made me remember what all this is for in the long run.

Thanks, Antique Mommy!

Taken from her blog entry, "Bucket of Love"

Wednesday it was cold and damp and rainy. Everything, including my mood was gray, as though someone had pulled the plugged and drained all the color out of my world.
As I’m driving Sean to school, the noise of tires swooshing through the water and the rhythemic scrape and skritch of my windshield wipers are the only sound in the car.
I pull up to a stop light and look in the rearview mirror at that little boy, snuggled into his car seat. He is thoughtfully tracing the path of a raindrop with his finger on the window. For some reason, the profile of his face peeking out from the hood of his coat is so sweet that it pricks my heart. I feel my heart swell and my eyes begin to sting with tears. He doesn’t know that I am watching him.
“Sean,” I hear myself say, “I love you so much, so much more than you can even imagine. I know you are only four and you can’t really understand that.”
“Oh,” he says quietly without diverting his gaze from the window. “I understand.”
After a long pause, he asks, “Does Daddy love me too?”
He knows his daddy loves him. I’m not sure why he is asking this question.
“Oh yes, Sean, Daddy loves you so much that sometimes it makes him cry.”
“Oh.”
Long pause. I can see him thinking.
“Does Daddy love me more than you?”
This time the long pause belongs to me.
“Well, Sean, things like love and pain are not really quantifiable. Daddy loves me from the wife bucket and he loves you from the little boy bucket. And those buckets are bottomless and always overflowing.”
“Oh.”
Long pause.
“Well if you get a hole in your bucket,” he said, “then I will give you some love from my bucket.”
Sometimes the things he says, makes my brain stop. Makes my heart stop. Makes my world stop.
Just then the car behind me is honking loudly and angrily. The light had turned green. The tears that had gathered in my eyes quickly evaporate.
I pushed on the gas and moved forward into the world of gray, except for the very bright spot of sunshine that is sitting in my backseat tracing a raindrop with his finger.

My EYES!!!

2007-12-01T00:20:00.000-06:00

Tonight we ventured out to our first Baylor basketball game of the season with Coby's parents. It was very exciting, and although we lost, those Bears gave it a good fight!!!

The game started at 8:00, which, needless to say, means Skyler started the night pretty tired. But, she was all about the game. She "Sic 'em Bears!!" a few times, crawled all over us, and even jumped up and down like a mad woman on my lap for the last five minutes of the game. She said, "This was very fun, Mommy!" and gave an approving drowsy nod as we went to the car.

We sat...and sat...and sat for a long while in line waiting for our turn to leave the parking lot. Skyler was watching A Bug's Life in the back and all of a sudden got frustrated.

"Mommy!" she said. "I can't close my eyes!!!" Bless her heart, she was so torn between the movie and sleep, and her eye muscles were so tired from trying to stay open that I literally think they were frozen in place. Finally after a few minutes of her whining annoyance, I said, "Skyler, it's okay to close your eyes. You can still hear the movie."

"Ok, Mommy."

Within seconds she was asleep. That girl of mine!! She sure is hillarious!! :)

Spirit-Led Parenting

2007-11-26T21:03:00.000-06:00

I am very grateful that I had parents that were spirit-filled believers growing up. My mom and dad weren't in the "hype" of any movement, nor did they go to extremes in most any direction. But they did believe and teach me the importance of the Holy Spirit, who He is, how Jesus was my savior, and that my utter dependance was on God my Father alone. It was a good, firm, solid foundation, one which stood the test of time and much questioning as I grew into a pre-teen, teenager, and then young adult. I will say that for me, living on what my parents said was never enough; I had to experience God and the multiple facets of his person for myself. But I'm very thankful that when I read the scripture, "Ask and these things will be given to you," I took them literally in the context of figuring out this abstract, hard-to-describe God and the relationship He wanted me to have with him. I have always been one to cry out to God to reveal himself to me, starting very young, and I have never been disappointed.

Now as a parent, I'm experiencing a new facet of my sweet Abba Father that is taking me a little while to work through. From what I'm told, it will take a lifetime of learning. The new experience for me is understanding the in's and out's of what a true, loving parent is to their children. My standard is my God. My example is my heavenly Father. Should I strive to love my children as God loves me? By all means, and yet to even begin is to fail miserably. How can I love Skyler and my little Popcorn with a fraction of the love He has for me? How can I train and teach...how can I measure up?

I guess truth be told, I can't. BUT, I can try. I can let my motivation and my inspiration be to please my Father in heaven with the way I train up my children here on earth. And am I ever thankful that I have his grace!!!

Quite an introduction to a fairly short story, but a poignant one I feel at the place I and many of you probably are in your lives right now. Last week I had my first true spiritual test in Spirit-Led Parenting. Skyler has been struggling with a lot of fear lately, to the point that it had become almost immobilizing for her. She wouldn't even go in her room to play by herself.

On one particular morning, she was following me around the house pretty panic-stricken while I was trying to get some things picked up. I realized she was really struggling and sat her down for a conversation.

"Skyler, why do you want me to hold you right now? Why don't you want to play."

And in her biggest, bravest 2 1/2 year old voice, she said, "Mommy, I just need to hold you."

"I know, Skyler, but why?"

At this point she couldn't be brave any longer and burst into big tears...

"Mommy, I'm just very afraid!"

I saw a little Adrielle in those big, brown eyes and remembered times when I was small and very afraid. Fear was (and still is) a very hard thing for me to get over. It was difficult for me to separate real from fake at times, and even harder to get over the fears of my mind, however unjustified. I suffered with some serious paranoias as a child and pre-teen, and I was very thankful that in addition to seeing some helpful doctors, I had parents that prayed me through those times and taught me that I had victory over the Enemy. My parents instructed me how to pray and what to do when fear overwhelmed me. And now, as a Mommy, it was my turn.

I began to panic. I have always believed very firmly that dismissing fear is wrong. Fear is a real emotion and I never want my children to feel like I don't believe them or that their thoughts, feelings, or emotions are not justified. However, I want to always keep their focus on God's plan for us as believers to overcome these things. But God, what do you say to a two year old? How can I explain all these things? What is important for her to know and not know? Will she understand?

I said a quick prayer and immediately began trying to explain to her that she is safe. God gave her a mommy and daddy to take care of her, and even if she is away from her mommy and daddy, Jesus will protect her. Through a series of Skyler's questions, I felt like I needed to explain that fear comes from the Devil, but that he's just a "little guy" (she associates intimidation with the BIG GUYS of the world right now) and that he was like a little ant. She could just squash him. I quickly realized this was a bad analogy.

"Mommy, I don't want to squash the ant. I don't want to step on him."

LORD!!! "Ok, Skyler, you don't have to." Let's see...

All of a sudden it hit me the importance of KNOWING WHAT I BELIEVE and exactly WHY. My child was looking to me for comfort. I want her to find comfort in me, but more than that, I want her comfort to be in the Lord. I began to over-analyze, trying desperately to find a way to explain.

Then Sky said the most simple, profound, true words of longing, words that could have been spoken from my very mouth in that very moment...

"Mommy, I just want to step on Jesus and I need him to hold me! I want Jesus to hold me!"

I quietly chuckled and saw in my mind's eye my sweet child stepping 'on' Jesus just long enough to reach for his hands as he swept her in his arms and held her tight.

"He can hold you, Skyler, each and every time you're afraid. You may not feel his arms around you like Mommy's arms, but you'll feel him inside when you feel safe. Any time you're afraid, tell Jesus to hold you and he will come."

That's it. It's not complicated or intricate, just a fact, only truly understood when we have the faith of a child.

We went throughout the next few days calling on Jesus to keep us safe, and I'll have to say, it is working. Her level of fear has gone down dramatically, and her demeanor is more peaceful.

And what did I take away from this moment? I'm still a little child, in need of my Savior, in need of my Abba for answers, for peace, and for comfort. In the midst of my very hard emotional days of late, I can just let Jesus hold me.

I want to learn to hear the spirit. I want to be led in training up my children. I don't want that responsibility all on my own. It's good to know I don't have to carry that burden; Jesus can carry me.

Not much in life truly changes, does it?

Halloween Fun

2007-11-15T18:47:00.000-06:00

It is so much fun celebrating the seasons with cousins!!! We made a trip up to Flower Mound to Trunk or Treat with Coby's sister and her family, and then went to visit the Original Pumpkin Patch the next day. It was a blast, even though I was nauseous a lot of the time. The kids had a fun time together, and it was neat watching Skyler and Cooper get into it all for the first time and somewhat understand what we were doing. Well, at least they understood the candy part!!!! :) Their matching Jessie and Woody costumes were a hit. Then on Halloween we got together with my brother and his family to eat hot dogs and go to the Fall Festival at Highland. It was very crowded, but I was glad we could have a one-stop-shop to entertain ourselves. Skyler got her first face painting, a pumpkin, which she still reminds me of often. Such fun memories!!!!!

(Sorry the pictures are all out of order. I tried, but I'm still not a pro at this picture inserting stuff.)

My 30th Birthday

2007-10-21T21:07:00.000-05:00

Family is an important thing to me.

I guess it always has been, but I think it is even more important to me as I get older and see all the amazing quiltwork of our lives unfold, both physically and spiritually.

In the personal patchwork of my own life, I was able to add a few "quiltblocks" this weekend. I had a wonderful time sharing with my best friends in the whole world over lunch at Panera, and I actually felt good enough to eat the whole lunch!! Major accomplishment for this prego. Then I had a blast watching my daughter play with all her cousins in the backyard that night and spent the day today with Coby's family just hanging out and being together.

Then tonight, my wonderful Mommy orchestrated a surprise party for me!!! Bless her heart, she had already planned it at a restaurant, but after knowing my desire to just hang out at her house, changed the plans with her husband Ray's help. (Amazing hamburgers, Ray!!!) It was a wonderful surprise with all the people I love and cherish the very most...my family. My mom, siblings, Coby's family, and my best friends. It really, truly was the best!!!

Thank you for coming this weekend everyone! Thank you for blessing me so much with your life, your time, your love, your prayers!!! Raschael, thank you for watching my girl on Saturday and Mom, thank you for making my night so special!!! Thanks Powells, Waters, and Kavalich's for making the trip!! It means a lot to me that you would do that...just for me!

I love you guys!!! I'm excited to keep working on my quilt with you all along the way!

Our Little Popcorn

2007-10-21T21:05:00.000-05:00

So my visit at the doctor last Wednesday was great. I was able to see the little heartbeat on the monitor and get all the measurements...only to discover I'm only 8 weeks pregnant. Oh well. And I wanted Skyler and her brother or sister to be close in age, but I wasn't expecting a due date of MAY 26th!!! The day AFTER Skyler turns three!!!! Hopefully this little one will come nine days early like Skyler did!!! :)

Skyler's Latest Funny

2007-10-21T21:03:00.000-05:00

The other day, Skyler was sitting next to Coby and me. She all of a sudden stopped what she was saying, looked at me, and said,

"Mommy, I tooted in my mouth!!"

Oh MY GOSH!!!! I nearly fell over. I said, "Did a burp just sneak up on you?" She said, "Yea! That's funny!"

Kids!

We're Having A BABY!!! (and a re-cap of the last 2 months)

2007-10-16T19:55:00.000-05:00

So, FINALLY, here's the big news!!! We're having baby number two!!! YEA!!!!!! Skyler is ecstatic about the chance to be a big sister, and we're glad to oblige! :) I apologize for not blogging in so long...again. This time it has been legitimate. I couldn't blog for awhile because I didn't want any of the Waco crew to give it away to those who didn't know yet that were out of town. And, as par for MY course with babies, it's been puke city!!! :) I didn't start getting sick until I was around 7 weeks (I think--my first pre-natal visit isn't until tomorrow, so we'll know how far along I am for sure then), which was a two week reprieve from when it all started with Skyler.

I would definitely say this pregnancy thing is much harder with a toddler. I'm so much more emotional than before and realize with all that is in me that it's not about me--it's about meeting her needs first. She's been a real trooper, though. Yesterday was pretty good for me, but after our outings to gymnastics and two stores, I was pretty much pooped. I walked in the house and tried to convince her to lay on my bed with me to take a nap, but she just wanted to play. So, in spite of myself and at a loss to know what else to do, I started a Dora and laid on the couch. Pretty soon, she came up to me and rubbed my arm, saying, "You wokay, Mommy." Then she wanted to get up on the couch with me and we quickly fell asleep side by side for about an hour. It was a little piece of mommy heaven, and exactly what I needed in that moment. I truly believe she knew in her little heart what to do to make me feel better. It's a moment I'll treasure for the rest of my life.

So my days pretty much consist of existing until it's time for work. Then I work a few hours and crash early. And even though the nausea and vomiting have been a bummer, I know it is only for a short while. It's a blessing to have another baby on the way, and I'm so thankful that God has given us this opportunity. I am so incredibly blessed beyond what I deserve, and I know it. I just need to remember this very clear fact when I feel so sick. Oh well!!! :)

Other things we've done the past few months in reverse order:

At the end of August we made a trip to Dallas to hang out with our cousins and Skyler made her first Build-A-Bear. It was a smashing hit, and we had SOOOOO much fun playing with aunts, uncles, and cousins!!! She named this bear Krystal the Baylor Bear--appropriately so, don't you think!??

We also went to Skyler's second Baylor game of the season with my friend Tracy, and Skyler had an outing to the zoo with our neighbor Megan and her Mom and new little sister Rebecca. I'm trying to download pix, but the blogger is being difficult, so I'll post them a little later.

All in all, it's been a fun, exciting, and exremely nauseating adventure!! WOOOHOOOOO!!! Skyler swears there's twins in there, and Sassy mentioned the same thing. I guess we'll find out tomorrow. Please keep us all in your prayers through this time. It's been full of memories, but very difficult, and I need grace. Coby is awesome--as usual a wonderful dad and husband. I honestly could not ask for a better parter to walk with on this journey through life. And I will blog as often as I can. Watching the screen makes me a little motion sick, though, so that's all for now. I love you, fellow sisters, friends, and bloggers!!! Thank you for loving me back!!!

Tagged by Emily

2007-09-23T21:02:00.000-05:00

So, my sweet sister-in-law Emily tagged me forever ago, and I've been off the Blogger radar for a bit--more to come on that later. I'm finally getting all these random facts about me on my blog, and I will then tag some other fellow bloggers...he he he!! This is actually fun. I love this stuff, and it's a bummer I haven't been able to blog it all before now!! Here goes...

The Rules:
1. I have to post these rules before I give you the facts.
2. Each player starts with 8 random facts/habits about themselves.
3. People who are tagged need to write their own blog (about their 8 things) and post these rules.
4. At the end of your blog, you need to choose people to get tagged and list their names.
5. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.

1. I've always wanted to be a professional singer. I did get the chance to sing on stage with Hillsong a few years ago and got to visit and pray with them backstage, which is one of the highlights of my life. Singing is a passion and I think recording, performing, and being in that world for awhile would have been great. However, I think it would also get really old really quick. There is more to my life than singing, and although I'm not knocking singers or the lifestyles they live, especially those that are Christian artists who really feel called to ministry in music, being in the spotlight all the time would certainly be draining. I think I'll be content to sing in my car. Speaking of singing....

2. The first year of American Idol, the judges actually had a pretty huge audition in Waco. The concept was little known and a number of people from Waco went to the finals in Dallas. The odds were in a Wacoan's favor!!!! I almost went to the auditions, but I decided to go out to school and grade papers instead. I could have sung with Kelly Clarkson!!! Gosh!!

3. I've also wanted to be a motivational speaker. Hmmm....

4. I lived in Ulan-Ude, Russia for a month the summer between my junior and senior year of high school. It was an awesome, life-changing time for me to be with some missionary friends, to enjoy a new culture, and more than anything to get to know my God on an intimate level like never before. It was amazing, and I think truly prepared me for some of the most heartbreaking losses of my life that would come later. That time cemented for me that God is my ever-present, constant companion. He is the lover of my soul, and when all others fail me, when all else is gone, he will not forsake me, he will be my strong tower.

5. I knew I was going to date my husband one day when I met him at church when I was fourteen. He doesn't remember the day at all, but I've got witnesses!!! :) I didn't know that I would marry him later on, but I'm so very thankful that I did!!!

6. One of my feet looks exactly like my mom's and the other foot looks exactly like my dad's. Also, I have one ear lobe that is attached and one that is not, which I understand is a genetic anomoly. Who knew!

7. I had Lasik surgery on my eyes a few years ago. It was the best investment I've ever made--I was almost legally blind and had terminal Great Papillary Conjunctivitus (sounds bad, doesn't it!) and would never have been able to wear contacts again. I've actually begun saving money now on eye expenses--my prescription was so bad that we figured in the amount I'd spend in glasses, contacts, and solutions over a three year period would be about the same amount as my surgery. Good investment!!!

8. I drove a white Chevy Lumina throughout college and into my married years that was lovingly named Bertha. She was a good car. Ugly, large, but good.

Thank you, Emily, for being patient with me. I tag: Angela, Dona, Mimi, Nikki, and Nicole.

Skyler's First Hair Cut

2007-08-28T23:04:00.001-05:00

Tonight was a big night for our little one--another milestone. After waiting as long as her poor dried out frizzy hair could wait, our two year old finally got her first hair cut. It was a trim, really, but took some effort to get all the layers into one straight cut. It was kind of fun to be together and make a "beauty shop" moment of it all, but how bitter-sweet to cut off those little baby hairs and realize she's not a baby anymore. This has been a week of milestones--we accomplished potty-training. She went to church Wednesday night in big girl panties and came home all dry--a pretty big accomplishment for a 27 month old. But I still hang on to every ounce of baby girl I can. Sooner than I'd like she'll be all grown up. This is just the beginning! :)

Saving Your Child's Life

2007-08-28T22:35:00.001-05:00

Sunday morning I had the scariest mommy moment yet!!!

Coby was running late and I was on Praise Team, so I grabbed Sky and we were off to church, leaving Daddy to meet us there as soon as he could. We got about halfway there and Skyler all at once began SCREAMING at the top of her lungs. I glanced back at her to see a look of utter terror on her face. She was inching back as far as she could in her car seat and had her little legs pulled up as close to her body as she possibly could.

The rational mom I am thought, "Oh, there must be a bug on the seat." But her screaming only accelerated.

Little did I know...

As I pulled to a stop, I began praying. This was unusual behavior for her. She generally loves the car, and whatever she saw gripped her with fear. She would not look away for anything. I put the Tahoe in park, ran around and quickly opened her door to discover

A SPIDER THE SIZE OF GOLIATH DANGLING IN FRONT OF MY BABY'S FACE!!!!

OK, so I am exaggerating a little. It was only about the size of a silver dollar. But, if you know anything about me at all, you know I am deathly afraid of spiders in any form. Regardless, the moment was at hand that I had to battle the enemy alone and save my distraught daughter's life (I think it was a garden spider, that's all).

My mind was racing. I quickly grabbed a shoe from the floor board, and jumping hysterically from one three-inch heeled foot to the other, I tried to thwack that sucker to the ground. I missed, he dangled, I tried to hit him again, and finally I succeeded in directing him to the top of the passenger seat. THWACK!!!! I thought I got him, but he wasn't on the top of the seat anymore, so he must have dropped to the seat itself--or into Skyler's bag which was sitting open in the front seat. I opened the front door and noticed a web gleaming in the morning sun. It ran from the floor board to my purse, up the diaper bag, and over the seat. I must have let him in when I opened the door at the house. But now, I thought he was back in the bag.

I proceded to empty Sky's bag carefully, shaking out each article of clothing or loose item, and then I finally dumped the whole thing out. No spider. This makes any person nervous, especially one that is afraid of spiders more than death itself. But this is my child. I MUST protect her at all costs, so I continue the search. I look all over the floor board, the seat, everywhere. No spider. Finally, as I am getting ready to close the doors and proceed to church, I LOOK UP.

AHHHHH!!!!!! I scream. Bad move, because then Skyler starts screaming. Then the spider starts running frantically and decides to descend once again IN FRONT OF SKYLER'S FACE!!!! Oh, Lord! Help me!! Send Coby here NOW!!! No such luck, but I did think to grab the diaper changing pad that was still laying on the ground and try to hit the beast outside the car. This under any normal circumstance with any calm individual would have worked, but not with me. I couldn't hit it, and even though my body was freaking out, I was trying to keep as quiet as I could so Skyler wouldn't be any more traumatized than she was already.

With this last ditch effort not working, I knew the inevitable was about to happen. I was going to have to do SOMETHING to get that spider away from my child. With all the strength I could muster, I grabbed at the spider WITH MY BARE HAND and threw as far and as hard as I could.

All was still. The wind blew calmly and I think I heard the faint sound of an old western theme song in the background.

Skyler said, "Mommy, where'd the spider go?" I reassured her that he missed his mommy and daddy and so I put him back in the grass so he could go home to eat his dinner. I had saved her, but I have to tell you, we have both woken up in the night with dreams of spiders since then. We are now trying to reinforce that spiders are our friend and that Mr. Spider just got lost.

It was quite the event...and the good news is, I beat a spider and I still made it to church in time.

Coby's Birthday

2007-08-28T19:46:00.000-05:00

This weekend we celebrated Coby's birthday since he had to work all day on his real birthday. It was fun to surprise him with a scavenger hunt of sorts that tracked him through a "Daddy's Great Day." Then he got his Calloway irons--and needless to say, he was pretty excited!!! Skyler also got some "thematic" presents along the way. Here's some pictures of their combo-gifts: planting roses together with their new gardening tools and gloves, mowing the lawn, and playing golf. It was a lot of fun!!!

My Girl

2007-08-17T22:40:00.000-05:00

Can I just say that Skyler is one of the most fun, most adorable, most hilarious children on the planet? This summer, even though it has been busy, has given us some great memories!!! She's explored the water a ton with swimming lessons, visits to the Y, and little trips to the splash park with her cousins. She's had a ton of fun playing dress up with her sitter Loren. And as a family, we've had a great time hanging out and enjoying each other. I'm amazed every day with how much of a big girl she's becoming. I will say, she is potty trained almost all the way. She had only one accident each the past two days, and that was at the potty--she just couldn't get her panties down fast enough!!! And she wore big girl panties ALL DAY LONG!!! What an amazing feat!! I couldn't have done it without Loren's dedication!!! And she's beginning to say and do these big girl things that seem too "big" for her little two year-three-month-old self--at least when she's awake. She still craves cuddle time and wants to be rocked to sleep, and she asks to pray and sing the night-night song as our regular routine. I love that she's still that much of a baby, and I'm not in a hurry to dismiss those moments. Isn't it great being a mom? And isn't she just cute!!!

He Loves Me...

2007-08-17T22:18:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I was on my way home from a meeting. I was by myself, which is VERY rare, and of course my mind was racing with all the things I have to get accomplished as a mommy, a wife, an educator. All the things of my world were filling in the void.

I was in Coby's car, which has XM radio and as I scanned the channels, I stopped on a Christian station. There was nothing particularly amazing about any of the songs I heard last night, nothing particularly emotional or moving or inspirational. My mind was going--I wasn't even really paying attention to the "words" or the music for that matter. But I found myself overwhelmed by a sense of longing--a deep desire to rest, to cry, to get emotional. The Adrielle I am reasoned it away for a minute, blaming it on stress or the rythme of the music--HOW ANALYTICAL AND HOW SILLY!!! :)

As I wondered at my wondering, I said, "Lord, are you saying something to me? Am I supposed to be listening to you?" In that still, quiet nudging that is so real, so intimate, so close to my heart, so a part of my uttermost being, I heard him say, "No, I just want you to know I love you so very much."

I stopped thinking in that moment.

I stopped analyzing.

I allowed myself to be loved by my Abba. I entered worship, right there in my car, without singing a word. Without thinking about it for one second. I just let myself BE.

It was nice.

So all you sisters out there, let God love you. In the stillness of that little moment, he just desires to envelope you in his arms and let you know that you are on his mind. He loves you. PERIOD. No matter what. He knows what you need, what you desire, what makes you sad, what makes you happy. He knows, and he cares so very intimately. Rest in that today.

My Wonderful Life

2007-08-13T21:42:00.000-05:00

Last night our family just relaxed together. After a trip to the pool with Skyler, we came home to Daddy who was just finishing up the yard. Coby started the "Wego" (Diego) sprinkler, I grabbed us some drinks, and we sat on the patio revelling at the awesomeness of our life. Our little girl was running into the water, giggling with glee at the pitter-patter of water on her little head. Milly and Bogey laid side by side gnawing on their own sticks, contented to be together doing what dogs do best. Coby and I sat there, looking at our corner lot, our baby, our dog and our cousin-dog, and thought we pretty much had every single thing we ever needed.

In my spirit I knew this weekend was the eve of big changes for Coby, even though his day today seemed somewhat "normal" as far as work was concerned. I knew last night, though, that this day was the beginning of a great commissioning for him, and a new beginning for us. What an amazing God we serve! What an awesome pleasure to enjoy the little things--a warm summer evening, locusts chirping, breeze blowing, and family spending time together--and the big things--a new position at a new job that TOTALLY fits him, a secure, "profitable" business that ministers to kids and helps them become better readers while they're at it, and the ultimate joy of being mommy and daddy to Skyler, the joy of our lives!!!!! The most important job ever, might I add!

I wonder where the next year will take us and what new adventures we will encounter. I wonder what will change and what will stay the same. I wonder so many things, but I don't wonder at the goodness of my God. I don't wonder at his faithfulness and that he longs to answer our prayers if we will just ask. I don't wonder at his purpose and his calling, if we will but only listen for his voice. Praise you, God! It is you alone. It's so humbling--I'm not worthy of all this blessing. I'm not worthy of all this promise, but you have called me your own. You have set in motion plans for my family I can't even begin to fathom, and I say that it is YOU, God. It is all for you. I say yes and AMEN to all that is good, all that is hard, all that is before us. What a blessing. What a precious blessing!

Skyler Speaks Spanish!!!!

2007-07-30T23:31:00.000-05:00

Tonight Skyler was sitting with her Daddy in his recliner when she said, "Mommy, I sirsty. I need my dwink."

I gave her a drink from dinner at my Mom's, and it was tea, so Coby reminded me to change it. In order to persuade her that this was a good idea, he said, "Mommy, I need some water. Would you get me some water?"

So, following suit, Skyler yells, "Mommy, I need water!!! Water, please! I need AGUA!!!"

Oh my gosh! I've got the smartest kid ever!! :)

I'm here...I promise

2007-07-30T23:17:00.000-05:00

Well. it's late and I need to go to bed, but I've been off the map for awhile, and I needed to touch base. So here goes.

My work is going well. I'm EXTREMELY busy with customers, which is a good thing, but I'm counting down the days until I don't have so many appointments. It's a REALLY nice thing that I get to choose when I want to work and when I don't. And I choose...a break. Four weeks and counting!!! I'm so blessed that I have a husband that supports me in this wonderful adventure!!!

Speaking of wonderful adventure, I have a client I've seen since last summer. To make a long story short, I knew God had me in her life for a reason. Lately I've really been pressing in, not only on an academic front, but on a personal one, as well. The beginning of the month I received an e-mail from the Waco Young Life Committee Leaders of the list of kids to pray for that were going to camp this summer. My student was one of them! Later the next week she told me she was going to this K-Life camp (Young Life camp for junior high kids). This opened a door for me to encourage her about the fun time she would have, and also provided an open door for me to tell her very skeptical mom what a great thing it was that her daughter was involved. Seeds planted, I prayed really hard for a few weeks, and when she came back from camp, she told me SHE GOT SAVED while she was there!!! The past few weeks have been one open door after another to share the goodness of the Lord with her. PRAISE GOD!!!! That's why I do what I do. I love to see a child be filled in every area of their lives. Please pray for this teen, as she is entering a very shaking time in her life and needs strong connections to faithful people that love God and love her.

We had a great time with family last weekend to celebrate Claire's first birthday. Man, time flies by so quickly. It was great being with you all, and I'm excited to celebrate many more fun birthdays to come.

Well, tomorrow I scheduled only three appointments, so it will be a semi-break, but due to Coby's new job (he just got a promotion in his NEW job to sales rep for the Waco area) we're quickly running out of room for two businesses, one family, and a ton of stocked items for his business, so we're meeting with our realtor tomorrow to look at our expansion/new home purchasing options for the near future. Should be fun!!! What a precious adventure!! I love my life!!!

I love you all so much! What a treasure to be surrounded by so much love, joy, and connection. I am very blessed.

Too Busy!!!

2007-07-21T23:03:00.001-05:00

This week has been CRAZY!!!!! Coby had to be out of town a lot for work, and I had to get ready for the Bunko party. That in itself, in addition to work, laundry (Amy, you with me?? :) ) and everything else in the world made my days long.

So here's my great epiphany...

I do things the hard way.

My house, having little to no counter space, needed more kitchen counters/cabinets, so I decided this week would be the best time to get an island for my little kitchen, before the party on Thursday. The only deal was that it wasn't assembled. I STAYED UP UNTIL 2 A.M. putting the thing together. I also wanted valances for the kitchen. I put those up, too. I also needed to clean house, pay bills, etc. etc. etc. AHHHHH!!!!

Why do I need to do these things all in the same three days?

Because I'm ADRIELLE. My brother would be laughing at me right now.

So anyway, I got it all done and pulled off a pretty good Cuban-inspired dinner party. The girls seemed to have fun and my mojitos were a hit. But I learned a good lesson this week. It isn't about the "what," it's about the "who." I think we forget that too often. In all the doing, I lacked down time with my husband, didn't play with Skyler too much, and couldn't help my brother move into his house until today. I know that some weeks are just like that and that I shouldn't beat myself up about it or anything, but absence makes the heart grow fonder. I really like hanging out with Coby, and tonight, as I played with Skyler on the floor at Poppy and Gibbie's house, I thought, "I sure am glad that THIS is what I live for--not all the stuff." I plan on taking more time with my family next week, and I think busy weeks like this remind me to be sensitive to what is most important. They keep me grounded, reflective because all the "doing" in the world just doesn't cut it for me. I have to have Coby and Skyler. I have to connect with my family. I have to invest in what is most precious. God, help me to appreciate every moment, and in the midst of those times where Time isn't on my side, help me to always remember what is most important.

Why??

2007-07-09T21:14:00.000-05:00

"Why?"

I've always been chained to this word, reaching and grasping for the fleeting answer to this horrible question. Tonight is one of those nights, and I still wonder. My Pop passed away last Saturday at the age of 96, and anyone would say, "What a wonderful thing to live so long and to have the opportunity to experience so many things!!" I agree. But not everyone gets to be 96 when they die, and not everyone, especially my Memo, think it's such a "wonderful thing." So I'm posed with my returning, ever-present "why" question: Why did my dad have to go first, then his dad, and FINALLY my great-grandpa? Where is the justice in that? And as the years go by, and his memory fades a little more in everyone's mind but mine, why is that fair in God's eyes? And as I watch my mom fall in love more and more with another man, regardless of how great he is, why is that deemed as justice? Maybe justice for her, but what about me, Gabe, and Raschael? Why is it even possible that he'll never know his grandchildren or have a kid-given title? Why is it even possible that he can't experience things in our lives like Gabe's new house or worst of all, that he can't experience getting to walk Raschael down the aisle next month? Why?

Maybe if they had been divorced it would have been easier to watch my mom suffer, just because I would know she could "put him behind her" so much better if he had been a jerk or an adulterer or abusive or any other thing on the planet besides kind, cheerful, generous, compassionate, tender-hearted, and long-suffering. Maybe if they'd been divorced it would be easier for me to imagine that place in Mom's heart being filled by someone else. Maybe if we'd been separated from him over more time or with less pain and suffering it would be easier to piece together what used to be our family. But I'll never know. I'll never be able to ask questions I always wanted answers for, or sit on the couch and sing together, or hold his hand just because. And I'll never, ever know what could have been. When does it get easier, and why do I have to feel this way at all? Sometimes it's just too much to think about--too much to justify.

So I take a look at the novel of my life in its latent, "first-draft" state. I wonder where I'm at and look at my life, gazing thoughtfully at the details of every page. Nights like tonight when I reflect make me wonder about tomorrow. Am I invested properly? Will I get 47 years or 96? Will I be finished on earth, or will I have all these open chapters with no endings? Will I have regrets, and will the people I love share those regrets, always asking why they never got resolved, or talked about, or even brought up at all? Will there be things left undone? Will I have wounded or healed? Will I have helped or hurt? Will I have left a legacy? Will my memory be enough to last a lifetime or just a few years? Will it matter...or not?

I won't forget. I've even tried, and it doesn't work. I miss you, Daddy! I want you here with me so bad it hurts! Not just for me, but for your family and everyone who loves you. I'm not ready to put your memory aside or away or on a back shelf. So many days I don't want to wait for heaven, and some days it's just hard to watch everything around me change in ways I never expected it to. What would it have been like to have you here today? What would be different, and what would have never changed?

Why?

Our Anniversary

2007-06-30T08:27:00.000-05:00

Last night Coby and I celebrated our anniversary by going to Temple to try out an Italian restaurant we heard about, Pignetti's. It was super good, and we had a very relaxing evening. Although our waiter was new, I think. He seemed really nervous.

Mom and Ray wanted Skyler to come stay the night, so I'm blogging at 8:30 in the morning in my PJ's. AWESOME!!! Skyler's cutting four molars, so she's been up at night a lot the past few weeks. Last night I slept through the night--sooooo wonderful!! I hope Mom wasn't up much! :) It's amazing how much you appreciate the little things once you have kids, but I already miss my little Sky, so I'll probably go get her soon.

I digress. All in all, a great night. And how awesome that I've been married eight years. It just seems like yesterday I was walking down the aisle, doesn't it!! Mom and Ray, celebrating newly married bliss, blessed us with an anniversary present and sweet card. I couldn't help but reflect on how different our lives are now compared to how they were seven years ago. I love that we have a God of second chances. It is great to see my mom so happy and content, and watch her and Ray grow more in love with each other. I think we all know that it took me some time to get used to the idea, but I always wanted Mom to know love again. I think our lives are meant to love. Whether we're married 25 years or 70-something like my great-grandparents, it is a treasure to be married. Ray is a blessing to our family, and I'm thankful for their love.

Coby and I are doing a little marriage enrichment summer dating series at church, and it's been so neat to see how much we KNOW each other. Our date was more evidence of this. Last night, we were finishing each other's sentences and thinking the same thoughts. I'm tearful even now thinking of the blessing he is to my life. I can't imagine walking through life without him. Thank you, God, for eight years to love him, and many, many more to come!!!

Prayer Time

2007-06-28T21:17:00.000-05:00

Today was a busy summer day with Read Smart kids, and after I got finished working, Skyler and I went to look for bridesmaid dresses with Raschael. I wouldn't say it was fun. Not because I wasn't glad to spend time with my sisters and other bridesmaids, but because Skyler did NOT want to be there, and of course a disgruntled child in the store at any time isn't pleasant for anyone. Not to mention that every bridesmaid dress out there now shows cleavage down to your belly button!! Hello!! I have a child!! I can't DO dresses like that anymore!!!

So when we got home, had dinner, and watched our traditional "Dora the Explorer" for the night, Skyler and I went on to her room. We practiced our letter sounds as we read the colors, then put the book down to thank Jesus for our day.

I told her we needed to close our eyes, and Skyler said, "Mommy, I wanna talk."

"Ok. What do you want to talk about?"

"Daddy in da udder room?"

"Yes, Honey."

"And Beeboo? Beeboo funny! He lay on da ground, and then he go ha - ha - ha."

"Silly Beeboo!"

"Silly Beeboo!"

"OK, Sky. Let's pray. Close your eyes and fold your hands."

With this she folds her little hands around her "bank" and squints her eyes. I think she's checking to make sure I'm closing my eyes.

"Dear Jesus..."

"Dear Jesus..."

"Thank you for my..."

"Food!"

"Yes, Honey! That's good! Thank you, God, for giving us food to eat..."

"Iye keem (ice cream)"

"Mmmm... Yummy! What else?"

"And gah-gog (hot dog), and cheese, and bananas, and chicken, and fe fies (french fries)..."

"Good! And, God..."

"God..."

"Thank you for Mommy..."

"Mommy, and Daddy, and Beeboo, and Milly"

"Thank you for school..."

"And my friends..."

"Yes! And Jesus..."

"Jesus..."

"Keep me safe..."

"Safe..."

"And put angels in my room..."

"Angels in my room..."

"And help me have a good day tomorrow. In Jesus Name I Pray..."

"Aaaaamen!!!!"

I tell you, that prayer made all my frustrations of the afternoon melt away. And she kept her eyes closed the whole time!!!! What an awesome little girl! I am so blessed to have her. Sometimes it seems so hard, but I'm learning more and more that if I will take the time to "talk," or sit still, or play, or do anything else other than keep up with the busyness of the day, my relationship with her gets all the more special, all the more solid. I know I'll never learn it all, but I'm thankful for little moments like this to soften my heart and help me realize my treasures.

Bunko

2007-06-21T22:39:00.000-05:00

Tonight I went to my Bunko group and had a blast. The host had an amazing house and an even more amazing menu. Kudos to Julie. I have to admit, though, that I'm a little nervous about hosting next month. I LOVE my house, decor, etc. but it is always hard for me not to compare myself with the Jones', you know what I mean? These gals get together to visit with one another and have fun--we all could care less about each other's houses, but I still find myself thinking/comparing/ wanting more. I realized, though, that the conversations and bonds I have with these friends is all that really matters. THAT is what is precious, not how much my house costs or if I'll have enough room for all 12 of us. Anyhoo, I'm just thankful I am surrounded by such great people and have a house at all. How blessed I am!!! So I take my 1600 square foot mansion and two outdoor living areas, side-walk chalked carport, and loyal dog Bogey and call it my little piece of HEAVEN! :)

Precious Skyler

2007-06-20T22:06:00.000-05:00

Some of the most precious times of my life are little moments with my Sky. Today she was exceptionally loving and made it a point to tell me how much she wanted to hold me, including asking me to sit with her to watch Dora and play with her babies. Yesterday we wrestled on the couch and danced around the living room as we watched Happy Feet. It is so amazing being a mom. And these precious moments are so fleeting. I spent some time with my friend Jenny today registering for baby things and thought fondly of the times I did that. Amazing. Skyler is already TWO!!!! Time goes by quickly, and before we know it, it's gone.

So as I journey with her, I choose to hold on to those precious things...like coming in the door and watching her face light up, or hearing her say, "Bye, mom! I see you when you done working!!!" or "I go potty now!!!" YES!!!!! Even her two-year-old outbursts of frustration are funny. Last night I started praying at the dinner table and she said, "Stop it Jesus!!!" I don't know if she just wanted to pray or if she wanted me to stop praying so she could eat, but either way it was HILARIOUS!!! Coby and I tried not to laugh.

What a joy!!! Thank you, God, for the privilege of children!!!

What a novel idea!!!

2007-06-20T21:22:00.000-05:00

So, I've had a million and four students say this whole blogging thing is sooooo cool. Being the "sophisticated, mature" adult that I am, however, I was always a little leery. But, if my nearest and dearest have one, why don't I? I do believe a blog, of which I am now introduced, can be a huge asset to my world.

What a great idea to share your life, all on one page, and let those who will take a gander. A novel idea!!!! This is awesome to catch up, share, inspire, be totally real, and keep in touch.

To my family... here's me. You know me the very best anyway, and this is a great way to share the little day-to-day details that might get left out in the hustle and bustle of our lives. SISTERS OF 'O', YOU ARE AMONG MY FAMILY. This is a great way for me to be a part of your world, too. So are you in?? :) More specific O-Side blogging to come!!!!

To my friends...thank you for visiting! We'll see how this goes!