Praying for Eric -- UPDATED again! (about 5 times)

Moments after I wrote the update below, I heard from our pastor:
"Right lung is out and they are puttng new right lung in. Pray that the lung inflates and begins working so that they can move to the next lung."

Erica just said the lungs have arrived & she will most likely not hear anything for a while. Keep praying for the skill of the surgeons & for the compatibility of the organ WITH Eric's body.

The lungs are supposed to be here at 2 pm. Meanwhile, Eric is already is surgery. Pls be praying for the condition of the lungs & the compatability.

They're awaiting the lungs still...they're coming in from Texas. They're estimating the arrival to be 1:30 pm. At which point, the staff could reject the lungs on account of them not being in perfect condition.

This is Eric & Erica. New friends of ours. Erica works with me, on staff at church. Eric is her hubby of several years (they've been together 12 years!). Eric has cystic fibrosis & a few years ago, was told he didn't have many years left.
Just since we've known him (about 6 mos?), he's been in the hospital several times. Each day, several times, Eric gets hooked up to his machines & gets his medicine. And periodically goes into the hospital for therapy. These 4 cuties are Eric & Erica's 2 sets of twins. Yes twins. Yes 2 sets. They're 2 yrs & 4yrs old. Cute as can be.

This morning at 4:45 am, Eric got the call that there were lungs waiting for him. And he is currently in the middle of the transplant surgery.

Will you pray?:

• for the skill the of the surgeons & OR medical staff, that they would have supernatural wisdom, concentration, & skill
• for the medical staff during the rest of the process & his stay, that they too would have great skill & concentration during his treatment
• for Eric's body, that it would be receptive of the new organ, not reject it, & that all medicines would work harmoniously with his body
• for Erica, that her nerves would be calm, that her spirit would be strong, & that she would trust in our Father who is in control of this situation
• for the rest of Eric's family & family, that this would bring them even closer to Christ, who is sovereign & mighty
• for their 4 babies at home, that they would be oblivious to the seriousness of this situation and would be excited rather than disrupted, by the difference in their routine & caregivers
• for the family of the donor, that their hearts would be comforted by the new life that has been given to another person, someone who is going to live life to the fullest because of the decision that was made by the loved one they just lost

And if you're contemplating donating your organs, do it. Think of our friend, in his twenties, who hasn't breathed well or felt great in years. Who now, thanks to someone making that decision, is going to be able to live a full life, wrestle with his kids, not get sick & worn out, & grow old with his wife. Go here to learn how.

Thanks for your prayers for Eric. I'll update when I can.

Just Watch Out for the Yellow Snow

We're about to make some Snow Cream.

Please Vote!!!

I don't need to remind you how I feel about Hot Hubby.
Okay, I love him. I'm IN love WITH him.
And he IS just about the hottest hubby around.

I pay him lip service quite often (in more than one way! ;) but I like do show him in deed just as much as words, and that's why I entered him into a local contest to show him I think he's the hottest.

The way to win this contest is to get the most 'replies' on the thread. Would you do me a favor? If I've ever made you laugh with one of our good-enough-to-be-on-a-reality-show stories...or if you liked the guacomole recipe...or if I make you feel better because I still have baby weight and my baby is 3, would you go and check out our entry and reply?

Go HERE. Read what I wrote & hit REPLY. You'll be given a dialogue box to write something & right above that box you will find 2 buttons (sign in OR join); if you need to join, it's really no big deal, just a few questions. Then you'll get a confirmation email in your inbox. Click on the link they include & it should take you right back to the box to vote for my Hot Hubby... you really only need to reply, so it doesn't really even matter what you write. You can just say that you vote for him. Whatever. We're just thrilled you're voting. :)
I'd love him to win & be acknowledge for the awesome daddy he is. After all, I've been calling him HOT HUBBY for years -- for that alone we should win! ;)

I'm a lucky girl.

Now, go vote!

Days Gone By

How ironic that yesterday I posted about how busy we are... and now I'm about to share about my latest fun on FaceBook.
Don't judge me.

I have been resurrecting photos to share with my re-connected friends, some from Kindergarten! And why not share them with you too...

this one has really brought some peeps out of the woodwork. front row center, mom, about those shoes...why? why??

the year of the hair (top row center)

and with my 2 h.s. BFFs.

scary hairy

and here (I think 1992?) i was really going through a love with hairbands.

I'd like to act all embarrassed, like the styles then were so hideous. But now, they've all come back. Making me feel OLD.

Busy Busy

I can't believe how busy we are right now. I actually don't even have the time right now to be sitting down at the computer. I have a dinner-meeting that I need to get the house ready for. And Gabe just had the mother of all blow outs, during his nap. That took about 45 minutes that I didn't have. Rock on.

Sat nite was the annual Trivia Night for a supporting foundation of our church. Jeff & I coordinated it for the 2nd year in a row. It was a success, but has left us pretty exhausted, as all good events do.

Flynn got a piece of momma's mind when she asked where we were headed after nap. "Um, NO WHERE" was not the answer she was expecting, nor wanted to hear. And she let me know. And then I 'let her know' what I thought about her on-the-go' ness.
What can she say, she loves a busy life. Gabe, not so much. He's a homebody like his momma.

Well Child Check-ups

The kiddos had their well child check ups this week. Which are starting to feel like a waste of time if you ask me. We definitely see the dr often enough for other things. I don't see a need anymore to take them to be weighed & measured... and have the dr ask me developmentally appropriate questions that my PAT educator is already asking me (& which I already know). Also, not seeming necessary anymore to go & say no to this vaccine or that vaccine.

Still tho, it's fun to see how much they've grown, or how much they haven't. Here are their stats:

Flynn
43 inches (45th percentile)
38 pounds (26th percentile)
'guesstimated' to be 5'4" at adulthood (this blows my mind!, I'm 5'8.5"!!)

Gabe
38.5 inches (58th percentile)
32 pounds (33nd percentile)
'guesstimated' to be at least 6 ft at adulthood (tall & skinny!)

My "Babies"

When they woke at 6:45 & 7 this morning, I greeted them like always, "Good morning Baby" & (again, fifteen minutes later), "Good morning Baby."

But today, for whatever reason (despite the fact that this is probably the 1,500th & 1,200th times they've heard it), they believed me.
That they were indeed, babies.

Could've been my reaction that inspired them to stay 'in character', or the fact that it was early, they were tired, & who doesn't like to be babied when they're half asleep. Either way, it was funny, I laughed, & they appreciate it.

So, this went on for a couple of hours. Complete with actually crawling to the table. Crawling down the hall. Talking baby talk. And letting me rock them (you must think I have nothing to do). Gabe asked me to feed him his banana bread. Flynn had me hold her water bottle like it was a baby bottle.

Can you say Baby Craze around here?!?!

The Girl I Blogged About This Morning

Happenings of my Five Year Old

...that still feels weird to write, even weirder to say.

Since I've been up since 5-something, on account of the fact that Flynn "can't go back to sleep", I figured I'd write some funny stuff that's been coming out of her mouth.

As I was blow drying her hair last night, with the new round brush we bought for her new 'do, she looked at the brush. She looked up at me. And said, "Hey Mom, I saw something on TV. It was this thing you could buy...you put in on your eyelashes, it kinda looked like that (gesturing to the round brush). You hold in on your eyelashes & it makes them pretty."
Then she looked up my eyes (tired, rubbed several times thoughout my tired evening), and said,
"YOU should get one of those mom. And try it."
{this supports our decision to get rid of our tv, can you imagine if she was the object of marketing all the time? -- she'd have me signed up for plastic surgery!!}

Flynn has been begging for a baby brother or sister lately. I think some of this has to do with us having "Baby Lua" 2 days each week. She's so cute, she gives us Baby Fever. And it probably also has to do with the fact that Baby Lua's Mom is about to have another baby.
And it could have something to do with the fact that I look like I'm going to have a baby.

When she asked why we won't be having another baby, I explained that we decided that two is perfect. And that this way Daddy & I are able to spend time with each of them... and money on each of them (ha-ha)... and that we'd probably not go on vacation or to dinner if we had more (we can't do these things as it is!).
"Mom. I still want you to have a baby."

Yesterday she got 2 vaccines (of the I don't know how many they wanted to do) & was so very worried about getting them. I, echoed by the nurse, informed her that it wouldn't hurt as bad as getting her ears pierced, but she was so concerned.
Which seemed funny as when the needles went in, she never even flenched.
I love having tough kids.

She loves getting the mail.

She loves checking books out at the library.

She loves church. And reports to me when someone is missing, "Mom, Sophie hasn't been in our class for a LONG time." with grave concern.

And still begs to go back to her old preschool, "Mom, Grammy said she would take me to Holy Child to visit. I'm going to stay the week with her." Uh, I think you've gotten a little confused on the time frame there, but I'll go with it.

She is a walking PDA, with times & dates etched into her petite noggin. "Mom, what happens after Valentine's Day?" and "I can NOT wait until July!" (our vacation) She has a little datebook/planner that PePa gave her & has everyone's birthdays written into it.
It's nice not to be the only administrative one around here.

She & I have been doing lots of snuggling lately. Not sure if it's her need or MINE. And when she lays across me in the recliner, the very place I used to feed her, I am reminded of how quickly time goes by. As those little feet (still little) that used to barely make it past my side, now hang off the side of the chair, and then some.
The stark reality that soon she will neither fit on my lap, nor will she want to... it hits me. And I work as hard as I can to relish the moments & not wish them by.

Madamine's* Bday Party

We have the advantage of a blessing that not very many allergy-families get to experience: a MILK-FREE birthday party.

That's right... Flynn's BFF, "Mademine" (as Gabe refers to her...and also says she is HIS SISTER) & her wonferful family, blessed Flynn with enjoying a DAIRY FREE PARTY. SECOND YEAR IN A ROW.

As Amanda now knows, throwing a party that is completely milk-free is NOT easy. She even bought cake decoratives a la carte to be able to have the theme chosen by Madelyn in a dessert that she knew would be safe for Flynn. All the way down to ordering from Chic Fil A because she had heard me say that Flynn can eat there.

Now those my friends, those are good friends.

And what could be even nicer than that?? --- Letting a little brother join the festivities.

*Madamine = Madelyn

(Gabe Lingo)

Inauguration

Today Flynn's preschool class watched the inauguration. They set up a tv in the small common area & watched it together. I would've like to have been a fly on the wall.

No matter how you voted, you must admit this is historical.

A Horse-Mechanic

...does such a job exist?
Apparently. And my girl? She's vocationally-expertised.
She asked for Daddy's screw driver & went to town 'fixing' the underbelly of the horse.

You know what's really bizarre? (besides of course, fixing the underside of a spring horse),

I'm pretty sure that in an old photo album, my mom has an identical photo of me doing the exact same thing to my spring horse.

Apparently this is hereditary.

Weird, Weird, Family

I mean, you couldn't have thought that the apple fell far from the tree, eh?
And it didn't.

I'm tired. Too tired to add explanation to these photos.

But enjoy, nonetheless, enjoy.

The Zoo's "Wild Lights"

Remember when Flynn won the essay contest? And the 4 tickets to the Zoo's WILD LIGHTS? We cashed those puppies in on eve before NYE. Gabe decided to run a fever, so he got left at Nana's. And some lucky family in front of us got our 4th ticket (which normally cost $8).

Here is the zoo all lit up from the parking lot.

Here is Flynn in front of the GingerBread Village. (milk-free? ;)
My girl & I strolling through some hanging lights (of course ALL lights hang, but...)

We missed Bubs, but Flynn got lots of one on one time.

And she deserves it.

Afterall, she is a winner!

Some Ideas for My Allergy Girl -- Snacks

Shouts out to my blog-pals who are fellow allergy moms. And I am needing some ideas...

For two things:

• In Flynn's class, their theme for Sunday is fish. For the snack, obviously goldfish are out. And as yummy as Swedish fish are, they aren't 'enough' to be the main snack. Any ideas?
• Her Valentine party is coming up (okay, it's like 25 days away, but still). I noticed yesterday that the teachers posted that snacks must be milk-free & to see ME if they'd like to bring a snack. I appreciate them doing this (& was surprised). Since there's a chance there might be a parent or two coming to me, I'd like to have some EASY, yet fun snack ideas. Preferably store bought, as I don't trust a lot of people to cook dairy-free (uncontaminated).

I NEED IDEAS! Thank you!!!!

Sometimes Preschool Moms are Mean

I've vented before about the door ding on the parking lot. I haven't blogged about how most parents are nice that I am forced to interact with in my children's circles. But there's a good percentage of them who either want to be left alone, or are having a bad day -- everyday.

This morning it was pretty cold. I happily gave Flynn's BFF a ride to school (they're in the same class) because her momma had to be at work early. And it's a Baby Lua day, so I had 4 sweeties to get out the door this morning.
Madelyn is no trouble, she actually was probably a motivator for my girl. But for whatever reason, my kids were moving slow. And after Hot Hubs forgot to leave (& install) the spare car seat, I had to think quickly.
Which meant using the baby's infant carrier. And miraculously getting it through the carseat jungle that exists in our minivan.
I had everyone triple bundled. And my hernia was screaming for mercy as I kept the baby in her carrier (for warmth, as she didn't have a big coat on)...and even tho she weighs no more than a yellow pages phone book, her carrier is one heavy mother.

I realize the daunting task of getting a quiver full of children out of the car, cross a parking lot, & into a building....all while playing frogger to get through the 50+ cars that are zipping on & off the lot. I understand the trouble of carrying a carrier & navigating a kiddo (no names mentioned, Bubs) to safety when he doesn't listen.

And when I got up the 2nd flight of steps into the school & remembered our gal pal's seat (to leave for her g'ma) was still in the van, I may have murmered 'crap' under my breath, as that meant the baby & I making another trip out the car. (amanda, don't feel bad!! --- this helps my story!!) Oh well, I think, I missed my work out last night (wii boxing anyone?!), so lugging this 30 lbs down & up again, won't hurt my jiggly arm thingies I have going.

But I never considered just leaving the baby in the car. It's a lot of trouble, but I didn't give it a thought.
However, a parent there did. She zipped up into the parking lot as I was headed out to get that cute pastel booster. I saw through the glass the infant carrier handle (which I was becoming all too familiar with at that given second) locked into place, sleeping baby inside. I have talked to this parent before & knew anyway, that the baby was probably inside. And was going to offer to stand by her car for her -- but she moved quickly past, rushing her kiddo inside (he was already late).

My little Lua & I grabbed Madelyn's booster & headed back inside. As I laid it by the coats, I caught her arguing w/ her preschooler & trying to convince him that he was staying. So I realize already, she was probably having a bad day, but...

"Hey there. I was going to tell you -- if I'm ever in the parking lot when you get here, I'm happy to wait by your car while you run in" (interrupted by her holding up her key) "He's fine. The car is running & locked & I have a key."
She was clearly ticked off that I said anything. I must have struck a nerve.
"Okay, well, I don't mind -- I'm not usually in a hurry" (interrupted again) "It's too D*MN cold for me to get him out & I have to deal with HIM" (referring to her preschooler, who is still insistant on NOT staying).
Then I looked at the baby in my arms, wondering how it's not too cold for her & the other 50 babies I saw 10 minutes prior -- whose moms didn't leave them in their cars.

I'm not judging. If she thinks that's safe enough, it's up to her. But I did think it was kinda odd that I was being nice & offered to do something for her that she found pretty offensive.
She was clearly going to go in w/o the baby, whether or not I offered her help, so I was offering for the baby's sake.
But she didn't know my motives. She was ticked nonetheless.

Eesh, preschool parenthood & the mommy club...
I don't think I'll be nominated PTO President.

A Spot in Heaven Reserved

...and really, that's not all it's about.

Walking with Christ is almost the best part. The heaven thing, that's the cherry on top.

And last night, when I was stuffing laundry into the dryer, Flynn called to me from the spring horse,
"Mom, I want God & Jesus in my heart."

"Well baby, we prayed about that before...do you want to pray about it again?"

And she nodded. And I was across the room at the speed of light. To squat beside her, take her hand, & be sure that she knew how huge it is. So she sweetly took my hands & repeated my prayer. About sin being the icky stuff we do. And once we ask Jesus to be our friend forever, that God doesn't even see that junk. (which is hard for even me to believe at times)

This morning, I greeted her with, "Remember the prayer you prayed last night?"

And in her grovelly morning voice she sweetly replied, "That Jesus could live in my heart forever."

Good stuff.

What Makes a Good New Year's Party?

If you throw together a last minute New Year's Eve party, it's essential that you have a few of the following.
#1 (not pictured) PIGS IN A BLANKET
#2 A GIRL WITH REALLY LONG ARMS

#3 SUPER OLD BLOWERS FROM LORD ONLY KNOWS WHERE (whether or not they still work is totally optional)

#4 CAFFEINATED SODA

#5 A CUTE BOY WITH A GUITAR (pls don't tell him that it's not really GUITAR HERO compatible)

#6 HANNAH MONTANA CUTE GIRL WITH GUITAR & HEADSET

#7 KIDS THAT WILL STAY UP TIL MIDNIGHT, BLOWING THE CHEAP HORNS & A SUPER LOAD SOCCER HORN

#8 PEOPLE WHO HAVE COMMITTED THEIR LIFE & SPARE TIME TO MASTERING GUITAR HERO

#9 A NANA WHO OWNS GUITAR HERO & WHO DOESN'T MIND NOT ONLY BRINGING IT OVER, BUT DOING A BLONDIE SONG WHILE SHE'S THERE

#9 LOTS OF PILLOWS FOR THE NON-NEIGHBORS TO SPEND THE NIGHT

Couldn't Resist part 2

I love my kids. And some nights, after they're all tucked in, my love gushes a little more (than other nights where the silence of bedtime finds me only relieved that it's quiet & I'm not breaking up fights).

Tonight's one of those nights. Because the end of the day gave me only appreciation of two of God's greatest gifts to me.

My girl, who begged all night to make banana bread. And looking at her, standing on the kitchen chair at the counter, so eager to be busy. And mid-mixing, when she looked up at me, giant round dark eyes, and asked if she was doing it 'right', I didn't pass up the opportunity to tell her that I'm the luckiest Momma in the world, because God made me her Momma.

And Gabe, who broke into hysterics because I told him that his rectum is where his "poop comes out". I've been teaching my kids the anatomically correct terms during their whole lives. Yet, tonight, when I re-explained it, it suddenly struck him as hilarious. I looked at Jeff, who had a front row seat to the circus, & said to him, "You know, Flynn never found this stuff funny." And right about then, Gabe burst out, "POOP!!! Hahahahaha." (picture with his deep grovelly voice)
And all I could do, was laugh along. Because poop is pretty darn funny.

And now, coupons clipped & filed away. Kitchen clean. Guacomole made. Heroes in the dvd player. And a hot hubby waiting for me to join him. I can't help but gush. At the end of a day of stress, staring at a computer screen with a low checking account balance, trying to find a way to cook without milk, wondering how much longer I can work part time, planning to take our house for sale sign down because it never sold... all those things. Can't take away the awesomeness.

Couldn't Resist

Maybe some of you see this commercial & think, "Cool. Good idea." But when Jeff & I first saw it, we burst into fits of laughter & had so many things to say (as usual). I couldn't wait to embed it on my blog (can't figure out how, thinking youtube doesn't embed for blogger anymore??) & share the corniness. Enjoy.

Christmas Program, In January

Today was Bubby's Christmas program. And I realize that it's two weeks past Christmas. This thing was rescheduled; not once, but TWICE. Lovely Missouri weather. And crazy Missouri roads.
Not to get ahead of myself, but the climax of the show is when Santa comes out. VERY cool last month (Santa is so last month), but this month? Kinda weird quite frankly.
Best part of that, was when my mother in law leaned over & whispered, "What exactly is it that the kids are saying to him?" I had to wonder too. And hoped that he didn't tell Santa that the cheap guitar he got him, won't really tune.
I think that Santa should wear a comfortable jog suit or something, for these post-Christmas gigs. It might be more convincing.
This is one of the moves that Gabe does when he says, "Me do this." Which is usually said right before I snap a photo. He probably looked around at all the cameras & camcorders & figured, this was his chance to 'me do this' for like an hour.

Me do this.

This was the absolutely funniest program I've ever witnessed. Full of so much nose-picking & finger-sucking. At one point in the program, a few of the kids in the backrow had had enough. They went ahead & started wrestling up on the church platform. It was actually the most interesting part.

Unless you count the parts where Gabe yanked on his hair. And flipped up the waist of his sweater. He moved around so much, that the wife beater under his sweater, started to make him look like a shoe-in for Flashdance. And when that got boring to him, hoisting his sweater UP to show his chest & stomach did the trick. It was ridiculous. But also ridiculously funny.

And here is our pre-program portrait: notice my twins (sis on left, mom on right) who are accidental photo bombers.

But don't let that take you away from Gabe's expression, which is saying, "Just wait til you see my performance."

Mystery Solved

Last Wed., Flynn started losing her voice. Days went by where she was extremely hoarse. Incidently, her lips also got a few bumps on them.
It worried me enough to take her to the dr Monday (thank you for another co-pay). The dr did a step test, which was negative. She said her throat was red, but that was all. That she really didn't have anything but laryngitis (sp?) --- which is basically, a lack of voice.

BUT, in true high-strung fashion, I could not let it go. I mean, how does a 5 yr old get a random loss of voice? It's not as if she attended a concert or sporting event to strain her voice, or spent the day singing opera.

Today her voice is MUCH better. No more bumps around her mouth. And I noticed that it got increasingly better after Monday.

Enter my detective work. My girl has been loving on this new (Christmas present) AVON disney chapstick. Jeff hated the stuff instantly because Wednesday (making the connection?) she decided she needed to start lubing up with this stuff, which is dark & super covering. Reminds me of one of the old ladies at the nursing home I used to work at. You know, the ones whose coffee cups are covered with bright redness.

I look over at that same chapstick, which she has not worn for several days, & it dawns on me to check the label.

And you guessed it, MILK PROTEIN. About 1/2 way down.
I have been letting my girl smear MILK all over her lips (& undoubtedly the amount that went in her mouth & down her throat).

Just a reminder to my allergy friends, to check even the most minor things, like lip & skin products... hair/body care.... and medicine (I almost gave her culturell, by recommendation of the pedatrician, when she had diarrhea) which sometimes contains milk protein.

And Avon, you've disappointed me.

Some Randomness

Here is some COMPLETE randomness...

• I absolutely LOVE Flynn's new hair. It makes me super sorry I didn't do this a long time ago (except, growing it out another 6-12 mos meant more to donate). It's so cute. It's so easy. And what can I say, except this girl can work a bob.
• I love having short hair. This is the shortest it's been since '85, where I had a triangular bob with some weird bang thing going. And very very curly. Well, it's still curly, but thank God for good hair product.
• Hot hubs being a teacher means we'll never be wealthy. But it does mean lots of time off for the holidays. That's great. Except, all three of us have to go through withdrawals when school starts again.
• An extra day of Hot Hubs at home yesterday, on account of ice + many many hills/backroads within his district's boundaries.
• Gabe's preschool Christmas program is tomorrow. Re-scheduled TWICE on account of weather. It will seem somewhat silly seeing Santa come in at the end. At this point, they may want to incorporate at Valentine or Presidents song.
• I got a PediEgg. Works swell. But, um, someone could've warned me about the grossness. I think I see a Rob-Your-Neighbor gift in the works (the heal shavings, not the pediegg). And it's like a trainwreck. I know it's nasty, but I still can't help but look.
• One of our awesome neighbors is being rude again. If our trashcan blows down, he runs outside & THROWS it as far as he can into our yard. Isn't it awesome when someone hates you just because you aren't like them. I certainly don't want to be friends with them, but all I can figure is that they only like their friends from their own mobile home court (literally, their 2 friends are old neighbors at their former mobile home, their BFF, a guy with a lazy eye & another friend, his mistress, a 40-something with a really damaged perm job...and she works at the gas station down the road...she's married to someone else, but hooks up with the lazy eye mullet guy). Should I apologize to them that we have never lived in a trailor? And there's certainly nothing wrong with living in a trailor... I'm just saying, sorry to them that we were young homeowners, which was one of their beefs when we were building our house. "I don't think that young kids should get a new house." Thank you for calling me a 'young' kid at 28, but working my tail off to get a couple of degrees & a job does constitute us getting a new (very affordable) house.
• I've been babysitting for a couple of months now. The little sweetie's name is Olivia, but Gabe calls her "Baby 'Lua". So her name has stuck. She is a real-life doll & we love having a baby in the house again. She's going to be a big sister soon too. And her momma has given me the honor of asking me to take care of them both. Logistics have to be figured out & lots of prayers to be sure that it's do'able. I love babies, everyone knows. And they're so fun to have around.
• I've been working hard to pass along all my frugal finds along to you over at my other site. If you know of a good deal, especially cheap & fun things to do with your family, please share so I can post it for the few families, friends, & frugal moms who read it. The info has been the same stuff I've been sharing w/ my mom, sister, & coupon-friends for a while now. Throwing them on the site is easier & then I'm able to share with anyone who cares.
• Jeff looks good at 34.
• Better than I look at 35.
• I'm still not used to writing 2009 .
• In my sleep this morning, in the wee hours, I had a really vivid dream. And in the dream, God gave me the words to a song, like a worship song. I know I sound super loony. Anyway, in my dream I was like, "Wow, this is a cool song." and shortly after I woke up, I forgot it. Man I sound like a fruitcake.
• Lately, Flynn has been driving us crazy with her new habit, constantly asking 'How long til ___?' And the blank can apply to a drive to Grammy's. A drive to church. The days until Madelyn's birthday party. The days 'til she can take out her earrings.
• I like spelling grey with an 'e' rather than an 'a'. It's always been that way. I don't know why. I just do.

/randomness

I Used to Hate School Pictures

THEN I saw this:

Happy Bday Jeff

For your bday, I want to tell you 3 reasons why I'm the luckiest woman on earth:

1. you give the kids a bath when you're home. you know it kills my back & you act like you don't mind. you have no clue how much i appreciate it.

2. you are hot. seriously. a total babe.

3. you say that im hot. and for some reason, i believe you.

i love you. i hope your day is 1/2 as awesome as you.

Images of Christmas Eve

At church, with my sis & my girl

Not sure what Gabe is doing here, but it looks important

Flynn checking out her goods

(& apparently, because I haven't taught her to be lady-like,

we can also check out hers)

Jack working his binkie

Unnecessary zoom

Our almost-annual family photo in front of Gammy's fire

Hoping to check Santa's whereabouts

Flynn excited that she's headed home, to hit the sack before Santa gets there

Gabe just about sacked out

And Momma & Daddy happy that all the gifts are wrapped & waiting beneath the tree

& that we can move onto our long winter's nap

Vision Questions for 2009

1. What skill do you most want to learn this year?
Maybe learn some new dishes (that are CHEAP). But more importantly, learn the skill of, um, BEING PATIENT (is that a skill or a virtue or what??)
2. What is one skill you already have that you’d like to improve this year?
turkey sounds. no kidding.
but really, i don't know so much a bout improving it (I think it's already perfected).
i think i'm a decent teacher. and am super frugal. so maybe a frugal teacher? i could go out on the road w/ that? a traveling frugal teacher show?
shoot, this is supposed to be serious. okay. a'hem.
i want to be more organized w/ my frugality techniques. like, finding/cutting a coupon does you no good if u let it expire. etc.
3. Name three books you most definitely want to read in 2009.
1.the bible
2.sacred marriage (started last yr, never finished)
3.a praying wife. and finish the other ones i started in '08.
4. In what specific area do you most want to encourage your spouse?
one time i read an article about a dad... he was talking about how his wife & him are supposed to be a team. only he feels like she's the coach & he's on the team. and i laughed. but then felt really guilty. becuz i talk a big talk about how we're a team, but then i'm constantly yelling to him that he's up to bat.
i would like to remind him that he is the lead of our relationship. and encouragement does not come from my words, yet from my deeds. and i've become increasingly conscientious about how my actions have been a reminder to him that i want to be in charge. but i really don't. really. i want to encourage him to feel comfortable in his spiritual role as the head of our home.
What are some ways you can do this?
by being a constant reminder that i am to submit to him. and that doesn't mean, "honey, you make the decision." but then when he decides to buy a black microwave instead of a white one, that i sulk for 5 years until that one breaks (or until he gets tired of my pouting & buys a white one). that's not a true story...but it sounds true, doesn't it?
i would never ask one of my kids to do something that's new to them, then criticize how they did it. so why should i do that to my spouse.
i will PRAYERFULLY practice not only my role, but practice being a support to the role that God has given jeff.
5. Think of one of your major life goals. What will you do this year to make you one step closer to reaching that goal?
believe it or not, in my life, i set goals. and i've reached them all. no joke. they were (marry, be a mom, and be a teacher). i've done them all.
but i'm not teaching right now. and i miss it HORRIBLY.
6. Name your kids’ biggest strengths. What are some ways you can specifically nourish those strengths?
Flynn has a God-given artistic gift. I'm not just being a proud mom. She does things artistically that far surpass what is age-appropriate. I see that in many areas in her little life. I'm going to work extra hard this year to give her opportunity to develop that. And I don't just mean buying new paints for our art carts. She needs a new avenue to explore her skills.
Gabe is very musical. Most of the songs he 'sings' are only recognizable by their tune (thank God he can carry a tune, because you certainly can't understand his words!). For a while now, when he hears piano, he will put his fingers up, as tho he is playing one. He got a guitar from santa & is REALLY into it.
I would like to see what our options might be (financially) to pursue lessons of some kind.
7. Name your kids’ most prominent weakness. What are some ways you can encourage their ability to overcome it?
Something I've noticed in Flynn, in just the last couple of weeks, is that she's starting to REALLY care what other people think of her. That's okay to a certain extent. I'm afraid that her self conciousness could be partly due to the fact that we trained her so hard to behave & be aware of others & their feelings. It's great to have a well-behaved child, but not if it means breaking their spirit.
Lately, she has started to get dressed, or accessorized & she paused. I can tell she's thinking. Then she'll ask me, "Do you think _____ will like my shirt?" etc.
It pains me. I want her to like herself first. And others accepting her as a bonus.
How can I do this? For starters, Jeff & I need to lay off our discipline. We've recognized & agreed that we've been too strict on her. We've made a perfect child & that only does everyone else good. Not her.
I want to build up in her an esteem that comes from her knowing that her worth lies in God. That she IS beautiful & that thinking that she is, is what's important. I really could care less what others think about me (to an extent) & I pray that some of that rubs off on her. She needs to be secure in herself. To grow into being a healthy whole... so that she's not constantly seeking validation from others.
Gabe's weaknesses are not as easy to pinpoint. He has some 'difficulties' going on. And we're in the process of diagnosing those, so we can move forward.
Gabe has a strength, that is also a weakness. And that is that his love language is touch. He loves to be loved on. But it also works against him. Disciplining him has been a challenge. And even things done out of love seem to aggravate the process.
I believe that we are encouraging others to help us help him to overcome what he has been fighting against.
But I certainly don't want to get caught up in the process & forget about the one we're fighting for.
What I've already seen us doing is re-evaluating some of the stuff we found important before. And deciding which battles are worth picking.
And remember that above all, our children seeing their parents' marriage as a united front, is the most beneficial thing we can do for them.
8. What is one of your strengths? Think of some specific ways you can exercise it this year.
I am very administrative (read: bossy). I can be (used to be) very organized. And probably the biggest strength is my creativity.
Whenever I read those traits, I instantly think of teaching, as it incorporates all of those attributes.
But also good parenting comes from those, if channeled properly.
I hope to tune those strengths into good home management. Put the unimportant things on the back burner & use my time wisely, first, on the things that help our home run smoothly.
9. What is one of your weaknesses? Brainstorm some ideas on how you can overcome this deficiency.
I battle anxiety. And some days it seems to be what's in charge of me. God is the sole provider of my peace & carefreeness. So, if I don't start my day off with Him & time spent 'with' Him, I can forget about relaxing at all (at any capacity).
My anxiousness can sometime lead way to negativity, if I let it. Which can snowball into a desperate feeling of there's nothing we can do about it.
There are some things you have no control over. And at that fork in the road, you make the decision, do I buck up & deal. Or do I go down the path of letting our battle consume us?
My practical ideas include:
prayer - a time in the morning, when I resolved to start my day (which effects the days of so many others) with God. Praising Him & asking Him to be in charge of my life, my world, & my family. To give me the 'things' I need to love others.
water - it sounds so stupid. but i get too busy to even drink sometimes. and dehydration leads to fatigue, and fatigue will feed into any problem you have potential of having.
attitude - keep working toward what i've been working toward my whole life... and that's NOT LETTING THINGS BOTHER ME. i can't. literally. if something bothers me, my blood pressure goes up. and widowing my hot hubs & leaving my kids w/o a momma, becuz i can't let things roll off my shoulder, seem PRETTY SILLY. right? i'm actively working toward a solution for this. short of a personality transplant. ;)
10. Think of an important relationship aside from your spouse and children. How will you nurture that relationship this year?
i instantly think of God here. and that would be the relationship more important than ALL others (including spouse & children).
nurturing it includes:
prayer
time reading the bible
meditation (a scripture of the day, muttering it under my breath all day, in line at the store, in the car)
sharing Him w/ others.
11. Name a few ways your physical health could be improved.
see nine.
i also need an exercise regiment. and becuz of lack of finances. lack of space. lack of time. it constantly gets shoved to the back burner.
12. Name a few ways your family’s financial health could be improved.
we've actually tweaked & creaked a budget. there's not a lot more that can change aside from more income.
i think that this year will be the year we see more freedom with that. and that's me having faith that full time work will come my way.
when that day does come, there will be a big temptation to spend. and we can't. we have to be responsible with what God gives us. that means sticking to our budget, even when my income doubles. we have lots of swimming to do until we reach debt-free shore. and right now, we're doggy-paddling.
some things we are committed to:
keeping our cars for years & years until they literally die
buying a modest house, whose mortgage won't be a lot more than the cheap one we have
not adding things to our monthly payments
financial freedom through no debt
13. In what way do you want to draw closer to God?
i blogged about this yesterday, but I want to know Him so strongly that i start to see His attributes THROUGH me. that even i am shocked when i see my actions reflecting Him.
14. What is one area of home management that frustrates you? Think of some specific ways you could improve your attitude about it.
disorganization. it gives me anxiety. it LITERALLY can make me sick. it's a waster.
ways to improve my attitude? i dont' know that i should feel differently about it. becuz not being organized can reak havoc on our home.
15. We're going to make a family mission statement.
16. Name one specific thing you could do with your spouse this year that will deepen your intimacy.
We have been so good about praying together EVERY SINGLE NIGHT, and sadly, we've slacked as of late. It might not immediately seem to negatively effect us, but how could it not??
I'd love to take a weekend trip away w/ Jeff. We have NEVER done this since having kids (all we've gotten away together has been a night). It would be nice to pack up some stuff & head out of dodge. And concentrate on just each other all weekend. But financially, I don't see it happening this year.
17. What is something that is continually undone in your life? What will you do to fully complete it this year?
I have lots of 'projects' that I start & don't finish. They might be small but I would like to finish them. Esp scrapbooking. I'm losing memories that should be documented. I would at least like to finish my kids' baby books.
18. In what ways will you be involved with your local community?
I don't know. I'd like to think that my work in my home church positively effects the community.
19. What is one thing you’d like to accomplish by your birthday this year?
Losing 20+ more pounds.
20. Think of three words you’d like to describe your 2009.
Health. Wholeness. Contentment.

Reflection Questions for 2008

1. What was the single best thing that happened this past year?

That's hard to narrow down... there are a few....

being able to afford a "new" car for Jeff,

Flynn & Gabe in the same school now & that being a success (esp w/ the allergy),

our hair donations,

good jobs,

HEALTHY family -- extended & beyond,

another clean screening for aunt alice,

the norris' coming back to MO,

there are a lot of best things ;)

2. What was the single most challenging thing that happened?

Gabe's speech delay & trying to get him some help
3. What was an unexpected joy this past year?

Gabe starting preschool, he LOVES it
4. What was an unexpected obstacle?

Not finding a full time job
5. Pick three words to describe 2008.

healthy, blessed, happy
6. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe your 2008 (don’t ask them; guess based on how you think your spouse sees you).

fun, safe, happy
7. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe their 2008 (again, without asking).

probably the same (we are almost one person ;)
8. What were the best books you read this year?

the Bible; I started RAISING SPIRITUAL CHAMPIONS and MAKING SUNDAY THE BEST DAY OF THE WEEK but I didn't finish either of those
9. With whom were your most valuable relationships?

family.  and definitely, friends.
10. What was your biggest personal change from January to December of this past year?

my hair! ha!  I have also really come to terms w/ some flaws... or parts of my life that need work (or meds! ;)
11. In what way(s) did you grow emotionally?

I hope that I grew ;)  I definitely "honed in" on some spots that I need help with.
12. In what way(s) did you grow spiritually?

another part of God's greatness has been revealed.  i'm learning so much about Him & how unconditional He is. (that's a lot to learn from!!)
13. In what way(s) did you grow physically?

I lost about 13 lbs in the last 5-6 weeks.  Hoping to lose about 20 more & get stronger.
14. In what way(s) did you grow in your relationships with others?

I think friendships are stronger.  And Jeff & I are in an awesome (yet eventful!) place in our relationship.  Parenting is getting 'easier' (altho Gabe is not easy) & that puts less strain on your marriage. 
15. What was the most enjoyable area of managing your home?

laundry, NOT.  I love when I have a day where the 'other' stuff in my life doesn't get in the way of my home-mgmt.  When I have supper on the table & happy sounds in my home.  It doesn't happen often, but when it does, it makes me super happy.
16. What was your most challenging area of home management?

organization!!...feels like fighting a losing battle.  your WHOLE home is based around organization...and if someone tallied up, the hours wasted (looking for stuff!) by us, it would no doubt make me ill.
17. What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year?

looking for things.  2nd on the list is reading blogs. ;)  that has changed a lot in the last month or so, things have gotten so much busier, i'm unable to keep up.
18. What was the best way you used your time this past year?

spending time one on one w/ my kids.  going on dates with them.  and staying up late hanging out w/ jeff.  THOSE are the things that I will never ever never regret doing.  and my kids will remember time spent w/ us forever.
19. What was the biggest thing you learned this past year?

not to dwell on the negative.  it can destroy you.  love people for who they are, or if you can't, concentrate on the loveable.  it does your heart good.
20. Create a phrase or statement that describes 2008 for you.

"Just when you think you've seen all the great in life, it gets even sweeter."

Questions 'stolen' from Simple Mom, one of my favorite blogs.