Symbols On My Hands

Bye!

2010-07-08T16:14:00.001-05:00

My new blog is up and running. This is officially my last post on blogspot. If you didn't get the email with the password to our new blog, please comment on this post.

Thanks for reading!

In the works...

2010-06-03T15:43:00.004-05:00

My blog is in the process of moving. I'll let you know more details soon. My new website will be more secure. You will have to enter a password to see it. I'll let you know the password when I have everything set up. I don't mind if you share the password with people you know. I'm choosing to move my blog for various reasons. I'll feel better knowing only people who have been given a password can see it. You'll get an email when I've updated something on the site so you won't have to check it every day if I haven't added anything. You can share pictures on it too if you like and when I upload the pictures, I can do several things with them from the site, like make books out of them. I look forward to the change. If you don't know me personally but am interested in looking at the new sight, please leave your email address as a comment here and I'll get ahold of you.

The change may take awhile. My goal is to upload my old pictures to the new site, which will take awhile. I'll let you know when the switch is ocurring and how to view the new site!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-02T19:41:00.002-05:00

Branson

2010-06-01T20:45:00.009-05:00

We just got back from spending some time in Branson with my parents and siblings. This is what Munchkin did most of the trip down there.

Once we got there we rode the Ducks. Here's Munchkin waiting with Grandpa and Grandma.

Waiting with Mommy and Auntie D.

Using his Quaker.

Driving the Duck with Grandpa.

The next day we went to Silver Dollar City.

We rode the train.

Watching the train robbers.

Milking a cow.

Several afternoons we went swimming. Here he is with Auntie D.

Swimming with Grandma.

Me and my Munchkie

Munchkin loved to dance to the music that was playing at the pool.

One day Granpa and Grandma took Munchkin to the Dinosaur museum.

Our view from our cabin, the Sight and Sound Theater where you can see the musical Noah's Ark.

More of the theater.

One evening we all went to see the show. It was fantastic and Munchkin loved all the animals. He still asks us, "Where'd Noah go?"

We took Munchkin to the Butterfly Palace while the boys went golfing.

Chasing some birds.

Our last night Grandpa gave Munchkin a much needed haircut.

Our last night we spent time snuggling with my brother, SIL and Baby K while picking out a mural for the nursery.

Just can't seem to get it done

2010-05-20T15:50:00.003-05:00

For some reason I just can't seem to keep up on this blogging thing. It could be because Munchkin is so big now that he needs someone to play with him. Maybe it is because he is so verbal now that he tells me to "stop playing on the computer", or "stop washing the dishes" and tells me to "come over here and sit down!"

Most days I don't even turn the computer on anymore. I have pictures and videos of Munchkin piling up that I need to get on here, but how am I supposed to do that when I don't even check my email every day!

I really am going to start putting more effort into it. I have to go back to why I started blogging in the first place. I want this blog to be a place where Munchkin to come to years from now and see how God has blessed his life so abundantly every day. I want it to be used to teach him what is really important in life and a place he can fondly remember his growing up years.

I had a birthday this week and on that day I really missed my Grandma Brandfield. I missed getting a card from her in the mail and getting my birthday phone call. Grandma was another huge reason I started my blog. She journaled every day. I loved that about her.

These roses remind me of her.

We have rose bushes planted right outside our dining room windows. Grandma always had roses and would frequently have some in a small vase in the house. I love that Hubby picks our roses for me and puts them in a small vase. It brightens my day and reminds me of Grandma.

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I had MOPS Bible study on my birthday and when I got home this is what my driveway looked like. Sorry I didn't get it all in one picture.

I called Brandi (Mason's mom) and sure enough, she, Mason and the two girls she watches during the day decorated the driveway for me! I loved it!

Even though Grandma may not be around to wish me Happy Birthday I still have so many people in my life who spoil me!

Rain Rain Go Away

2010-05-13T19:49:00.002-05:00

Not a lot going on around here lately. We're just trying to stay dry. We're playing outside as much as we can, but get wet because there's puddles everywhere.

You can probably tell these pictures aren't recent. It hasn't been this sunny here in awhile. Munchkin got a bubble mower for his birthday and earlier this spring we got it out. Here's Munchkin the first time he used it.

Following daddy. Too cute. I love the hat and overalls. My little farm boy!

Race Day

2010-05-09T19:46:00.002-05:00

Trying not to freeze before the race. Thank goodness the rain stayed away.

Me and my Sissie!

Some of my MOPS friends.

Lining up.

Starting the race.

Finishing strong. (I'm on the far left)

I had two goals going into the race: 1. Jog the whole time. 2. Make it in 35 minutes (which I've never done). I made both goals! My time was 33 minutes 40 seconds!!! Woohoo! :)

The rest are pictures from after the race; waiting on family and friends to finish.

Auntie D. dancing with Munchkin.

My support system. Couldn't have done it without the support and love of my guys.

MIL and SIL crossing the finish line.

First timers

Here's to more races in my future! Anyone want to join?!?

Getting down to business

2010-05-03T15:06:00.004-05:00

Well both my boys are finally home! Hubby and I spent some much needed time together this weekend while Munchkin stayed the night at my sister's. Now we're getting back to our regular schedule and it is time for me to get down to business.

Munchkin is napping right now and I'm sitting among a pile of papers and my calendar trying to schedule everything I want to do this summer. I'm enrolling Munchkin in a music class on Friday mornings, considering doing Parent's Day Out on Wednesdays, getting things set for my MOPS Summer Bible study that will be on Tuesdays, trying to figure out when to get two weeks of swim lessons in for Munchkin, and trying to plan weekends that we can go see family. This summer is going to fly!!! Somehow, we'll cram it all in!

Today Munchkin and I met Hubby for lunch. So fun! He has a trail that goes around his building, so the three of us went for a walk after lunch. It is so nice being back with the boys! :)

Sunday is the race! I'm still running. I made it in 37 minutes yesterday. Hoping to do even better on race day. Send good thoughts my way :)

Baby Kemerling

2010-04-29T19:50:00.003-05:00

My brother and his wife are expecting their first on September 28th. Munchkin is about to get a huge lesson in sharing! Ha! Welcome Baby Kemerling. We can't wait to meet you!!!

One down, one to go

2010-04-28T20:10:00.003-05:00

One of my boys is back and the other gets back soon. Munchkin returned home after spending several days with the grandparents. I went up to my mom and dad's for the weekend and then came home to have a few days to myself. I cleaned, ran errands, attended MOPS, shopped, organized and saw lots of friends. It was just what I needed.

Munchkin misses all his grandparents but I think he'll be happy once daddy gets home. Our living room floor is covered with toys again. Tomorrow morning we're going to a work day for MOPS at church and then we're coming home to make a surprise for daddy - Great grandma Vette's banana cake!!!

Thank you grandparents for taking care of my little guy!

Ahhh...normalcy!

2010-04-20T16:37:00.002-05:00

Now that Munchkin is on another med, things are starting to look up. He slept well last night and woke up feeling well. Granted, he still has a runny nose and cough, but we were able to have some fun today!

This morning I dropped him off at the church nursery and headed to Mimi's Cafe with my MOPS Bible study for some breakfast - a little end of the year celebration. When I picked him up from the nursery he said he wanted to go to the park, so we went. It was so nice to be outside climbing, sliding, and being active! Tomorrow it may be rainy so it will probably be another day indoors.

Hubby leaves for Europe soon. Please be in prayer for safe travels!

Doctor. Doctor, give me the news...

2010-04-19T14:57:00.003-05:00

Took Munchkin to the doctor today. Just as I suspected - just allergies. So we've started him on some children's allergy medicine. The doctor said he should take the grape flavored chewables fine. I thought "um, probably not" so when I went to the store today I bought the chewables and the liquid.

Much to my surprise (or not) he gagged, cried, spit and clung to me for dear life.

I think we'll try to liquid tomorrow.

On a different note, here are some pics from a couple weeks ago when we went to Deanna Rose. You'll notice there are no animals. That's because last year Munchkin had to play on the smaller playground. But this year he was big enough and confident enough to play on the big kid playground. We were there the majority of time.

You just did what?

2010-04-18T18:31:00.002-05:00

As soon as I finished my previous post Munchkin just counted out loud from one to ten in Spanish. My work here is done! :)

A nose, a race and volcano ash

2010-04-18T18:24:00.005-05:00

We're still struggling with allergies/asthma. We're doing breathing treatments every four hours, staying inside a lot, trying to keep up with a runny nose and praying for the pollen count to go down. I may take him to the doctor tomorrow because yesterday he woke up from his nap crying (this never happens) and said his nose hurt like there was an owie in it. Hmm...we'll have the doctor take a look.

I'm still running. Three weeks from today is the race. I am currently doing 3.25 miles in 38 minutes; a personal best for me. I am also continuing my weights but much prefer running outside. I like running outside so much better than on the elliptical so I'm avoiding that at all costs.

Hubby leaves for Germany and Sweden soon - as long as the airports aren't shut down on account of ash from the volcano. We'll miss him terribly. I'm praying Munchkin is feeling much better while daddy is out of town.

Well it's time for another breathing treatment so I'd better go. Sorry for not posting lately but we haven't had that much going on.

Allergies...Ugh!

2010-04-14T12:37:00.003-05:00

Well, we didn't make it to Deanna Rose this morning. Last night Munchkin had trouble sleeping because of allergies. He has a stuffy, runny nose and when he breathes he snorts and whistles. It drove him crazy during the night. So instead of going outside and having those little allergies flare up even more, we're staying inside today. Hopefully a day of air conditioning will help.

He's been a real trooper, as usual. We've postponed the trip to Deanna Rose with Mason for next Wednesday. Instead of playing outside this morning he played in his room while I went through his closet and dresser. I totally cleaned everything out and reorganized. Ahhhh...relief! His closet has been a mess lately, so has his dresser drawers. I have two boxes of clothes ready to go in the basement, a few garage sale items, and clothes for spring/summer put away and ready to wear. Everything is neat and organized! Just the way I like it. I think he had fun too. I found some old books shoved in between things in his closet, so he had fun reading those while I worked.

Tonight Hubby has some work he needs to do in the yard. I think that will be the hardest for Munchkin. I know he'll want to be out there helping daddy. Wish me luck keeping this outsider inside all day! :)

Happy Happy

2010-04-13T21:47:00.003-05:00

First of all, Happy Anniversary (a day late) to my parents!

Secondly, Happy Birthday today to Great Grandma V.!

Today we had MOPS. When I picked Munchkin up they told me that he fell and had a bump on his head. It was small, and not a surprise, he is always climbing on things (in fact he was climbing on a table when I went to get him this morning), but tonight we took pictures for our church directory. Perfect time to get a bump on the head!

After MOPS we met some of the ladies and their kids at a local park for a picnic and play time on the playground.

We've been getting so much fresh air lately that Munchkin has been sleeping late in the mornings. We had to wake him up this morning to go to MOPS and I had to wake him up from his nap this afternoon to go get our pictures taken. It this pattern continues, we may have to start putting him to be earlier. Although I'm not sure how we'll get him inside to do so.

Tomorrow we're going with Mason and his Mommy to Deanna Rose. We went last Friday for the first time this season. Munchkin loved it (I've got a few pics I need to post of it).

I'm still running and doing my weights. I'm running farther distances. I ran almost the entire 3.25 miles outside today. And that's my goal to be able to run the entire 5K. I'm sure I could run it now if I pushed myself. But honestly I was just enjoying my time outside. It was gorgeous today.

Blackberries

2010-04-11T16:25:00.002-05:00

This week blackberries were on sale at the grocery store. They were delicious! See?!

Colorado!!!

2010-04-10T09:20:00.009-05:00

Finally! I know, I know. I've been enjoying being back in the warm sunshine and blossoming spring. I've been enjoying myself too much to sit at a computer. At last, here are some pictures from our trip to Colorado. Munchkin did great. We didn't have to make any extra stops for him on the 13 hour drive. He also stayed healthy! Yea! And he slept well out there! Praise Jesus! Enjoy the pics!

Grandpa and Munchkin ready to play in the snow behind our condo one day after skiing.

All bundled and ready to play!

Behind our condo there was a golf course. It was covered with snow when we were there and made for some fun playing. But the sledding wasn't so great. Here's Grandpa pulling Munchkin in the sled.

Everyone watching us from the condo.

This is Munchkin's cousin Gabe. He celebrated his first birthday while we were out there. Here he is sledding with his mommy.

Me, Munchkin, Hubby

Granpa, Munchkin, Grandma

The cousins. Only the beginning of their times together in the snow.

Copper Mountain.

Beautiful Colorado.

Where we stayed. Our home away from home.

Some of the slopes right by our condo.

Snow angels with Grandma!

Munchkin helping blow up balloons for Gabe's birthday party.

In one condo there was this drum that was in a spot that appeared you would put an ottoman. It was a hit with the littles.

Everyone singing to Gabe!

Beautiful boys playing with balloons :)

Hubby and I went skiing together, just the two of us, Easter morning. So fun! Here we are on top of the mountain.

Grandma and Uncle BJ took Munchkin to the Easter Egg Hunt they were having in Center Village on Easter morning. Munchkin found a pile in the snow and went to town!

Meeting the Easter Bunny. Munchkin wasn't so sure at first. He was excited to see him, but only from a distance. This pictures took some coaxing from Grandma.

One day after everyone got off the slopes, Hubby, Munchkin and Grandma went tubing. Here they are getting ready to go down the hill, or mountain I should say.

Whee! Hubby said Munchkin laughed the whole way down every time.

At the bottom. Time to go back up and do it again!

Munchkin had it made. He got pulled in the tube the whole time.

Pausing for a quick photo.

My two favorite guys! Aren't they cute?!?

After a hard day of playing, Grandpa reading a story to Munchkin before bedtime.

Before we go...

2010-03-31T15:37:00.006-05:00

Sorry I haven't posted for awhile. We leave tomorrow for a ski trip to Colorado with Hubby's family. So in my "down time" I've been doing some prep for that. But what we've mostly been up to is living outside!!! The weather has been gorgeous this week and Munchkin can't get enough.

Sunday, Munchkin's best friend, Mason had his second birthday and we went to his party. They live just two doors down from us. Here are some pics from the party.

The kids eating lunch.

Some after-lunch playtime. That's the birthday boy.

Munchkin waiting to sing "Happy Birthday."

Blowing out the candles.

Mason trying to eat his entire piece of cake all at once!

Munchkin showing us that he's passing on the cake and would rather have Cheetos! Oh dear. Where have I gone wrong?

Opening presents with his daddy.

All the other kids trying to help unwrap presents and play with all the new toys. Better known as pure chaos! :)

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On another note, as I said, we've been living outside this week. But today, I finally had to stop procrastinating and get ready for our trip. So on the warmest day so far, we've been inside for most of it. However, as I was making lunch today I looked out the kitchen window and saw Mason playing with his Grandma in our backyard. I love our neighborhood so much. We come and go to each others' houses, yards, etc. and are just one big family! When I saw them out there, I told Munchkin and we rushed outside.

Playing. Yes, Munckin is barefoot. Glorious!

Playing in the yard. Aren't they precious???

Since it was so nice today, we decided to eat outside! Munchkin had so much fun!

I don't know when I'll get the chance to post again. We won't get home until early Tuesday morning. So until then enjoy the warm weather while we go back to more snow!

Cleaning and Easter Eggs

2010-03-27T21:25:00.005-05:00

Tonight after supper we decorated Easter eggs. We'll be out of town for Easter, so I thought we'd go ahead and get this done so we can enjoy them for a few days. Here is Munchkin in his apron. It says, "Mommy's Lil Helper!"

Getting ready.

Putting the eggs in the dye.

Drying the eggs.

Looking up at Daddy for his next instructions! :)

Putting stickers on.

Some with stickers. We had trouble getting Munchkin to understand that he could put more than one sticker on them! :)

Drying and decorating.

A perfect spot. Right on the mantel. (And kind of fitting underneath the cross!)

Aren't they cute?

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Since we'll be going out of town soon Hubby blessed my day by letting me clean our house! And I mean clean. He knows that I love coming home from any trip to a clean house. So I deep cleaned for at least 6 hours today. And I loved it! Thanks Hubby, you're the best!

Some of you have asked, so I thought I'd let you know that I'm still keeping up with my running. Yesterday I ran outside (against the wind, which was horrible) and made my best time yet; 3.25 miles in 40 minutes. Slowly but surely I'm making progress.

Tomorrow is Munchkin's best friend's 2nd birthday. We're going to celebrate with them tomorrow after church. Should be fun!!!

Cowboy hat

2010-03-26T14:44:00.001-05:00

Munchkin has really been into his cowboy hat lately. He wore it for Halloween last year and pretty much hasn't worn it since; until this last week.

Today he was wearing it inside and also found a hat to put on Cookie Monster. He was very proud of himself!

3 New Sentences

2010-03-25T14:38:00.005-05:00

Today Munchkin has said three things that I had no idea he knew how to say:

"No I can't!"
"Whose is that?"
"No money, no ticket."

The firs two he said to me during breakfast as we were having a conversation. The third I overheard him say while he played independently.

Since we're sort of on the subject anyway, here's what Munchkin's been up to lately:
He can count to 13.
He knows all his letters and the sounds they make.
He is learning his shapes.
He still loves all things Sesame Street.
The majority of the time he is singing or humming. (Just like his daddy!)
He loves to pretend.
He loves to say, "I'm gonna get you mommy!" and then we proceed to chase each other through the house.
He still loves fruit and vegetables.
We are in the beginning stages of potty training.
He takes one nap a day (sometimes he doesn't take any nap) that usually lasts from one to two hours.
He currently has to sleep with four stuffed animals.
He has trouble correctly pronouncing the 'r' sound.
When eating, he is finally using his fork and spoon. Most of the time. :)

First Day of Spring

2010-03-24T20:33:00.004-05:00

The first day of spring brought snow for us. These were taken first thing in the morning. It continued to snow all day.

We stayed inside and did lots of relaxing. I think Munchkin loves it when both mommy and daddy are home. Here are daddy and Munchkin reading. Gosh the two of them are looking more and more alike!

Later we made cookies. I didn't want to put that much effort into it, so I used a cake mix. The cookies turned out yummy!

Snack time!

2010-03-23T22:04:00.001-05:00

These pictures are from quite awhile ago. I just never got them on here. Sorry for the delay. I have one more post with some older pictures that I need to get on here. This weekend it snowed, Munchkin had tummy problems caused by his antibiotics, we had Bible Study and Munchkin stayed at Auntie D.'s on Sunday. Today Munchkin and I got to go to MOPS and play outside! It was so nice being outside and socializing with the neighbors. We're so ready for summer around here!

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Yep, eating right out of the container!

And yes, his outfit doesn't match.

He is actually wearing sweatpants with a pajama top. When you need a clean shirt fast, you grab whatever is closest.

Within just a couple of hours

2010-03-18T20:18:00.005-05:00

From the time Munchkin finished his lunch to the time he took a nap, here's what we did:

We went outside to play and I told him he needed to wear a hat. He chose his cowboy hat!

We kicked the ball back and forth.

We looked at all the flowers that are growing in the spot where I want to put my garden this year. So while we were outside today I dug most of them up. Munchkin played in the dirt with worms. He loves worms. He got so dirty that there was even dirt in his diaper! But he had fun! :)

He went down the slide.

He crawled under the slide.

I'm wondering where he learned this from. He put a piece of dry grass in his mouth. Hmm...

Future botanist?

Like I said, he was really dirty when we came inside. So he ate his snack in just his diaper.

I eventually got a shirt on him. He then climbed into the laundry basket full of dirt clothes.

He tried to put on my jeans.

He emptied the basket.

And then he filled the basket.

This morning we went back to the doctor to follow-up on his pneumonia. He still has some, so we're continuing with antibiotics.

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Yesterday I ran 3.1 miles inside in just over 46 minutes.

Today I ran outside 3.25 miles in 41 minutes. Outside must be more motivating! Had to get it in before the snow comes on Saturday!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-17T16:02:00.000-05:00

Playing with grandpa and grandma

2010-03-14T20:53:00.004-05:00

Last weekend Hubby's parents came. Munchkin loves playing with grandpa and grandma!

Tickling Aunt N.

Tickle Fest!

Outside playtime!

Hopefully where I will plant some vegetables this year.

Being adorable.

Rolling down the hill with grandma.

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2.64 miles today. Hoping to be able to run outside again soon.

My boys

2010-03-14T20:50:00.002-05:00

Today after lunch the boys changed the light bulb.

Cuteness!

Getting back to it

2010-03-12T19:24:00.003-06:00

I'm officially back to my workout schedule. I ran outside Wednesday, did weights yesterday (I'm going to have to buy some heavier ones) and ran on the elliptical tonight. I would have loved to run outside again (using the term "loved" loosely here!) but it was rainy and cold here today. I don't get it, I ran 3.25 miles in just under 45 minutes outside and tonight it took me 40 minutes to go just 2.61 miles on the elliptical. Hmm.....

Munchkin is getting better. He has slept through the night the last few nights. He even slept until 7:3o this morning! We are still doing his breathing treatments a couple of times a day, but not as often as we were at the beginning of the week. He only coughs when he is overly active. Thankfully, so far the cherry juice is still working to get his antibiotic down.

We were both itching to get out of the house today, but I still didn't want to go out to a public place with him, so he and I headed to my sister's house to meet her for lunch. Munchkin played the whole time. He ate lunch once he got home. He was just so excited to be at Auntie D's house! And it was just what he and I needed to get through the day.

Tomorrow evening I hope to get together with my teacher friends. I miss them so much! What a blessing!!!

Steroids and Running! Ha!

2010-03-10T17:26:00.007-06:00

First, Munchkin is doing better. We didn't get the shot. He is now taking his antibiotic disguised in a glass of cherry juice. (Now that I've typed that he probably won't take it tonight! Ha!)

We've still been struggling with the steroid. My mom came down today to help me get it down him and to give me a little break. I certainly took advantage of her being here. We did get the steroid down and I also got to get out of the house. I went to Target and bought some spring clothes. I also stopped by Sonic Happy Hour and got a diet vanilla coke.

I also took advantage of my mom being here by running outside. I ran 3.25 miles in 45 minutes. I guess I should rephrase that. I walked and periodically jogged rather than ran. I thought it would take me at least an hour. I knew that running outside would be completely different than running inside on an elliptical. And I have never run the full 3.1 miles yet. And I haven't run at all or done any weights since one week ago today! With all the sickness going around our house and my schedule, I just haven't done anything. What a way to get back to it!

It was so much worse than I thought it would be! Ha! Yes, I did a lot better than I thought I would but the impact on my feet and knees wasn't fun. I did enjoy the scenery and the fact that I could run outside without a coat. Side note: two trees in our yard are starting to get blooms on them! But the whole time I was out there I was thinking about how my training so far was clearly not what it should have been. But then once I got back home, I was totally surprised that it only took me 45 minutes! It is just a totally different feel being outside.

I just heard thunder! Woohoo! I love thunderstorms.

One last note before I go. We're sending our love and prayers to Great Gpa V. He had a hip replacement today. We love you grandpa and are praying for a speedy recovery!

Again?!

2010-03-08T21:31:00.004-06:00

I took Munchkin to the doctor today. We had x-rays and he has pneumonia. Again. In his mid and lower right lung. To make matters worse, he throws up his meds. He has two - prednisone (which always makes him throw up - we have now tried three different kinds and he can't keep any of them down) and now he can't keep his antibiotic down. Not good. Not good at all. I called the nurse help-line tonight and then talked to the on-call pediatrician. It looks like we'll be going back to the doctor tomorrow. The on-call doctor said Munchkin should probably be given rocephin shots. It is days like these when I hate being a grown-up. Anyone else want to take over for me? Ha!

I'll keep you all updated. Thanks in advance for praying.

Latest happenings...

2010-03-06T20:01:00.005-06:00

We're still here. This last week was busy busy. Wednesday night I met the ladies from my MOPS table at the Cheesecake Factory for dessert. We left the kids at home with the dads. It was so fun going out with those ladies. I cannot begin to tell you how the relationships I have formed through MOPS has helped me not only as a mother, but as a person.

Thursday Munchkin started looking/acting a little sick. He's had a runny nose since last Friday. That night I got a terrible sore throat. Also that night I met up with two friends from college. One recently went on a trip to Israel. It was incredible hearing about her experiences.

My throat hurt so bad in the middle of the night Thursday that I went to the doctor Friday morning; after I had been to the eye doctor for a regular check-up. They dilated my eyes so I couldn't see anything at the other doctor's office. I got some meds and made sure I wasn't contagious because today I helped host a baby shower for a friend of mine. So while I waited for my prescription to fill yesterday I got some groceries. Very interesting to say the least while your vision is blurred.

Munchkin's cough continues, as well as his runny nose, and a low-grade fever comes and goes. I'll probably have to call the doctor on Monday. Thankfully my medicine is kicking in.

Hubby's mom and dad just left. My MIL's birthday was last weekend. They came down to celebrate with us. My MIL is the best and helped me prep food for the baby shower, did laundry, swept the floors and dusted and vacuumed!!!! What a lifesaver! We love you grandma! :)

Tomorrow I've got to work in the nursery at church, so Hubby has to stay home with Munchkin because he won't be allowed to go to childcare with his runny nose, cough and temp.

The last two times I ran I made it 2.52 and 2.57 miles. I think. I haven't run in a couple of days. Although I feel like I've been running nonstop! :) Now that the weather is getting nicer I need to get outside to run.

Thanks for your prayers for Wendy. She is enjoying the Hospice House as much as she can. That's Wendy for you, always positive.

Praying for Wendy

2010-03-04T14:32:00.002-06:00

Last year in MOPS I had a secret sister, her name is Wendy. As secret sister you find out all the little details about that person's life - likes, dislikes, hobbies, family, etc. and shower that person with gifts throughout the year. Among some of the things I learned about her that year is that she is a mother of three girls. The oldest is now 15 and the youngest is in preschool.

About this time last year, Wendy discovered she had breast cancer. She found it when she fell and hurt her arm. She was told it was a very aggressive cancer, and if she hadn't have found it when she did, she probably wouldn't have survived it.

So last spring she started a very courageous journey fighting the cancer. She endured mastectomy surgery, radiation and chemo. Things started looking positive - although Wendy never lost her positive attitude.

Then she started some dizzy spells. This led to the more recent discovery that the cancer was now in her brain. Inoperable because of its location. To the outside world, this appeared to be horrible news but Wendy continued to exhibit incredible faith and hope. She was standing firm on the Rock.

Even more recently Wendy has been experiencing severe back pain. Because of medications she was on, she had been restricted on the amount of driving she could do. I took her to get a full body CAT Scan on Feb. 11th. She spoke of the back pain then. I heard little details about what the CAT Scan showed. Then, she went to the ER a couple of weeks ago because the pain had gotten so severe. She was admitted and we learned the cancer is now in her spine. The pain was from extra fluid. She was to have brain surgery last week to put a port in from which they would give her chemo treatments. Due to an infection she's had, she's been unable to have the surgery. They have done two other chemo treatments in her time at the hospital. Today she found out they are not working. She is moving to the Hospice House in about an hour and a half.

To read her full story and journal entries from her entire battle, go here http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/wendyschwarz/mystory

I am coveting your prayers for her and her family during this time. My heart aches for her three girls and her husband, who has been juggling taking care of the girls, spending time with Wendy and working full time.

It has been an honor to watch Wendy go through this battle with cancer. She has clung to her Jesus every step of the way, and continues to do so. According to her husband, she is still praying for a miracle. Will you pray too? For a miracle...I'll leave that up to you. Praying for miracles is something I've always struggled with. Do I believe that God can perform this miracle? Absolutely. But just because He can, doesn't mean I think He will. Thankfully, I don't have to decide. I trust that God knows best. I'll be honest with Him and tell Him what I want for Him to do, but will end my prayer with the words of Jesus, "yet not my will, but yours be done."

Mileage and Video

2010-02-28T21:49:00.003-06:00

Yesterday I went 2.52 miles. Slowly but surely I'm getting there.

Here's a video from Munchkin's birthday party that was held a month ago. You may be wondering why I'm putting it on here now. First, I thought you're probably just getting tired of reading about my struggles with exercise. Second, we only download our videos onto this computer, and I rarely use this computer to blog.

So there you go. Enjoy watching Munchkin blow out his birthday candles!

Brain child

2010-02-26T20:43:00.004-06:00

Today we went to Debbie Howard's Gym for a couple of hours. Munchkin had lots of fun. He has officially conquered the foam pit that I once had to rescue him from. He also loved walking on the balance beams.

Probably his favorite part was a little car that had the characters from Winnie the Pooh on it. Underneath the steering wheel were four characters in barrels. Each barrel was controlled by a button. The character would pop up out of the barrel if you could figure out how to maneuver the button. You may have to push it, twist it, turn it or flip it. Munchkin was mesmerized. He played with that thing for the majority of the morning. As all the other kids were running around being athletic, Munchkin was down on his knees getting a closer look at how the car worked. A true engineer at work. Sheer concentration. I'm not saying that Munchkin doesn't like running around, climbing, jumping, being athletic, I just know he is so much like his daddy; the brain of an engineer for sure! :)

2.44

2010-02-24T21:55:00.003-06:00

Tonight I went 2.44 miles in 38 minutes (10 min. of walking). Man did I feel like quitting tonight. At about 1.7 miles I seriously (well, not too seriously) considered stopping. It wasn't that I couldn't go on. I could, and I knew I could; I just didn't want to. Basically I just don't ask myself whether or not I feel like doing it because I almost never do, and I'm really good at talking myself out of doing things I don't want to. Anyway, the next time I run (Saturday; tomorrow I do weights and Friday is my day off for the week) I will add two minutes so that I'm doing 30 minutes of jogging. Since I'm adding two minutes, in theory I should go even further. We'll see. At this moment I'd be happy with going 2.45 miles on Saturday. I'm not sounding too positive tonight am I?

Now on to a subject I am much more positive about - sleep! Munchkin and I took a three hour nap together today!!! Bliss. Pure bliss! In fact, I credit the nap to my being able to get any exercise in at all today. Without the nap, I would have been much more tempted to just go to bed.

A second subject I'm much more positive about - Hubby! He had an appraisal at work today. It went really well. I'm so proud of him! He is awesome at what he does and highly respected by his coworkers (not to mention by his wife too!) In a couple of months, they are sending him to Sweden for a training. He is the only one going, so they're putting a lot of confidence in him. Way to go, Babe! I love you. Thank you so much for working hard every day to provide for me and Munchkin. Without your hard work, I wouldn't be able to stay at home and do a job that I love.

Tomorrow Munchkin and I have nothing on our agenda besides laundry. Hmm...what should we do?

Where does he get this stuff?

2010-02-23T17:01:00.003-06:00

Today I was sitting on the floor and Munchkin started climbing all over me. He said he was a monkey. Then he said, "Kee of uh guggle!" Any ideas what he was saying?????

"King of the Jungle!"

Where does he get this stuff????

A bit of this, a little of that...

2010-02-22T22:06:00.005-06:00

I've been doing sort of an experiment with Munchkin's naps. For the past couple of days, he hasn't taken naps, and we've been putting him to bed super early. And he's been sleeping through the night, and sleeps for about 11 hours - which is pretty incredible for him. This afternoon he fell asleep on the couch watching Veggie Tales. What does this mean for our experiment? No idea, I guess we'll just take it one day at a time.

Tomorrow night we have our small group coming over. We're going through the book of Proverbs. Wow! So much good stuff in that book. Every time I read it I get something new out of it. I'm really looking forward to our discussion tomorrow.

On the 5K front, I only went 2.34 miles tonight. Honestly, I just wasn't feeling it. Oh well. Tomorrow is weights.

In the morning I have MOPS. Our table's mentor mom won't be there because she is on a cruise. I wish I were on a cruise. At least we actually got to see the sun today.

Sorry for the randomness of this post. I'm pretty tired. This is the first time the computer has been on all day and it is 10:13 p.m. Whew! Munchkin and I have been busy bees. Time for this busy bee to go to sleep. Good night!

Thank you!

2010-02-20T19:35:00.003-06:00

Thank you to everyone who has been so encouraging about the 5K. I am officially registered as of 2 seconds ago! With all your support, now I feel even more pressure... I mean now I feel even determined to do my best! :)

I also feel the need to clarify that my 38 minutes yesterday included ten minutes of walking (5 warm-up, 5 cool down). That somehow makes me feel better about the distance I went. Ha!

I've asked several women in my life (friends and family) if they want to participate with me. Please feel free to sign up! Just go to www.MothersDayRun.com for the info. Please let me know if you do. And if you need convincing, just let me know. There are a couple of you that I still plan to approach.

Today I met one of my dearest friends, Angie, for breakfast. It is always such a blessing to see her. We're hoping to make it a once a month thing. She lives in another part of the metro, but it is still close enough that we should be seeing each other more often than we do. Then, Hubby, me and Munchkin met my brother, SIL, and sister on the Plaza for lunch. It was fun being all together.

Tonight I was supposed to get together with my teacher friends, but the weather wouldn't allow it. The roads would have been fine on the way there, but I wasn't confident about them for my drive home. When we gals get together, we can have pretty late nights, so I felt better staying at home. We'll have to get together soon though! My time with my teacher friends is almost therapeutic! :)

What a wonderful day filled with time with family and friends; just what a weekend should be!

2.33

2010-02-19T21:44:00.002-06:00

Thanks to everyone who has encouraged me to enter the 5K. I have decided I am going to do it!!! Mark your calendars for Mother's Day, May 9th 2010!

I'll start posting some about the progress I'm making in preparation for the run. Please keep in mind that I have never been a runner. I've never enjoyed running, nor am I a big fan of exercise. Period. But since the beginning of the year I have been doing it anyway. Hopefully a race will keep me motivated to continue being consistent in this new lifestyle.

Tonight I ran 2.33 miles in 38 minutes. I can't believe I just posted that. I feel like I'm totally exposing myself to you people. You can do the math and find out how fast I went, but I'd prefer you didn't ;) Compared to most, I'm slow. But compared to where I was at the beginning of January, I've improved leaps and bounds. I am running at least three days a week. I alternate days with some weight training. I take one day off a week. Tomorrow is my day off for this week.

So, talk about accountability. I've just told the world everything about this. Let me end tonight by saying thank you again for the encouragement. Thank you for not judging me, or laughing at me. (Although technically you could be, and I'd never know about it. But I'll pretend the thought hasn't even crossed your mind.) I promise to keep you updated.

And Uncle David, this does not mean I'll be skiing blacks in April! :)

Should I do it?

2010-02-18T19:59:00.002-06:00

We're going skiing Easter weekend with Hubby's family. In an attempt to prepare, I've been working out consistently since the beginning of the year. I've never been one to consistently work out.

Today I was asked if I wanted to run in a 5K on Mother's Day. Should I do it? I think I want to. Crazy. I've never thought of myself as a person who would run in a 5K. I've never really thought of myself running. Period. I think it would be fun. And the other ladies who are entering I really like. It could be fun. And what a good challenge.

What do you think???

My American Idol!

2010-02-17T12:01:00.005-06:00

This video was taken probably about a month ago now. I caught Munchkin singing Baa Baa Black Sheep one day while he was playing. Enjoy!

Only a few weeks behind

2010-02-15T21:15:00.003-06:00

I know Munchkin's birthday was at the end of Jan. but I'm just now getting pictures up of his party. Since Christmas I've felt so....wilted. I feel like I go, go, go and I just haven't felt like doing much of anything once I'm done doing all the things I have to do.

I thought today would be rejuvenating with Munchkin at my parents' but I'm actually exhausted. It was a busy day and lately so many people in my life have been experiencing drama, that I'm started to get bogged down. Some days I'm just so ready for Jesus to come back. Do you ever feel that way?

Tomorrow is another busy day. So much for being rested by the time Munchkin gets back. Anyway, I'm sorry for being such a downer. Back to business...

I made a Cookie Monster cake for his party. Thanks Aunt Kay for the cake pan.

The finished product. Complete with a #2 candle!

The table all decorated.

He loves Sesame Street!

Opening presents.

Just a typical day...finally!

2010-02-13T11:41:00.004-06:00

Just a regular Saturday at home today! I'm so thankful!

Thursday I wasn't at home for part of the day and the rest of the day I had a bad headache, so laundry is just getting finished today.

Yesterday Munchkin and I went to a Valentine's playdate. He made it home with a bag full of Valentine's. He had so much fun and it was good for me to be out socializing with other moms.

Last night I had trouble sleeping so I got to sleep in this morning! Thanks Hubby!!! It was so nice - just what I've been needing. Munchkin woke up again in the middle of the night. It really is becoming a habit because he isn't sick anymore. He's gotten up several times in the night this week and he won't put himself back to sleep. I didn't make him when he was sick, and now I'm suffering the consequences. We try to get him to put himself to sleep, but the issue is that he can reach the light switch from his crib so he turns the light and fan on - then he can't fall asleep. So last night I had enough. I didn't want to worry about him turning things on, so as he was calling for us, trying to get us to come back to his room, I went in. I told him to go to sleep and moved his crib. It worked! He went back to sleep (eventually) and I didn't have to worry about the light or fan.

We don't have any big plans for Valentine's Day. My mom and dad may be coming down to get Munchkin for a few days - weather permitting. I'm really looking forward to some time at home by myself and evenings alone with Hubby.

Everyone have a Happy Valentine's Day!

Time to switch the laundry.

Be Patient!

2010-02-10T21:34:00.005-06:00

Munchkin is officially well. He hasn't had a breathing treatment in a couple of days. We're almost done with the antibiotics too! So glad things are getting back to normal around here. I'm sure you can tell by the lack of posting - especially the lack of pictures in my posts - that we haven't had much routine lately. And I thrive with routine.

I also have a couple of videos (that are pretty old now) that I've wanted to post, but just haven't been motivated to take the time to do so. When Munchkin was sick, any free time I had I did not want to spend it blogging! But...the plan if for Munchkin to go to his grandparents for a few days soon, so I should get it done then.

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Today Munchkin went to the dentist. No cavities! Woohoo! However, the dentist did tell us that Munchkin doesn't have enough space in his mouth for his permanent teeth. Therefore, when he gets his permanent teeth, they'll be very crowded, and probably crooked. It looks like we're destined for braces.

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Yesterday I was getting Munchkin some raisins after his nap. He was standing beside me in the kitchen, looked up at me and said, "Be patient."

On the mend

2010-02-07T16:38:00.004-06:00

I didn't post on Friday because my MIL* came and took care of Munchkin that night. She even got me and Hubby a hotel room for the night so we could get out of the house and get a full night's sleep. It was wonderful! I can't even begin to tell you how much I needed that.

*mother-in-law

Munchkin ended up sleeping through the night for her (of course). And didn't run a fever the whole time we were away and didn't miss us one bit!

He still has a cough, but is breathing much easier. He still can't get too active, or he starts uncontrollably coughing (possibly asthma attack?) His fever is completely gone. He slept through the night again last night. His ears don't seem to be bothering him either.

Thanks for all your prayers. Apparently they're working.

Go Saints!!!

Day 6

2010-02-04T17:58:00.003-06:00

Well it is day 6 of the little guy being sick. Thankfully he was only up for one hour during the night last night - so we're making progress. (Knock on wood.)

He isn't coughing as much but when he does it sounds horrible. This morning his temperature was 103! I called the doctor and they said that it wasn't surprising. (Helpful, I know!) With the virus he has his fever may last a week and now that he has an ear infection, it is just complicating matters. So basically, we're just going to have to deal with the fever. I've given him tylenol and the lowest his temperature gets is around 100.

You know Munchkin is sick when he is the one telling me he wants to nap! This morning I was folding laundry, he looked up at me, held up his arms and said, "Mommy carry you." (meaning, hold me mommy) When I picked him up he instantly put his head on my shoulder. I asked him if he wanted to go to bed and he said, "Yeah." Then, this afternoon we were playing and out of nowhere he said, "Naptime!"

Munchkin and I have literally been in our pj's all day. I just took a shower and put clean pj's on. Hubby has a meeting with China tonight, so I'm trying to make the most of my time with him here to help.

My teacher friends want to get together this weekend. I'm really hoping to be able to. I need some time out of the house! Here's hoping the snow holds off!

Update....ugh!

2010-02-03T19:12:00.005-06:00

Munchkin went back to the doctor today. He was supposed to go today for his 2 year well visit, and since he was sick on Monday we decided to make this visit a follow-up.

We were up a couple of hours in the wee hours of the morning again this morning, but before he appointment, he actually ate some breakfast (only a little, but still) and wanted to play.

I was still glad we were going to the doctor though because yesterday he started sounding like he was going to lose his voice, his nose was a waterfall, and he still had his cough. Thankfully the doctor said that his breathing treatments have been helping and she said that we no longer had to give him the medicine that was making him throw up! Yea!!! However, much to my dismay, today she discovered that Munchkin now has an ear infection. What?! Great (sigh).

So now we are on antibiotics for the ear infection and are continuing his breathing treatments until his cough is gone. His cough is better this afternoon, however there is still a lot of gunk in his nose and late this afternoon his temperature went up to 101.5 (Mom, please don't call me. If he still has a fever in the morning, I will call the doctor. If it gets too bad in the night I will call the nurse help line.)

So your prayers are still much appreciated. We're not out of the woods yet. Also please pray that Hubby and I stay healthy. Having my sleep interrupted four nights in a row is starting to take its toll. We're trying to take care of ourselves, but it is hard for me to take care of myself when my little one is sick.

Tonight I got out for a bit to run to Target, and it felt soooo goood to be out of the house and have some quiet time.

I'll update again sometime tomorrow.

Sleepy and Sick

2010-02-02T11:41:00.004-06:00

Before bed last night, Munchkin's fever was 101. We were up from 1:00 to 3:30 (at that time he didn't have a fever and hasn't had one since!!!) and then up again briefly at 5:00.

I got his medicine mostly down this morning although we had another throw up episode immediately after. Now I can't get him to drink or eat anything. Again.

I am now heating up some chicken noodle soup on the stove. My guess is that I'll be the one that ends up eating it.

I feel like I'm taking care of a newborn again. I'm sleepy, didn't shower this morning and am wearing sweats. That was the story of my life for at least the first three months of Munchkin's life.

I have a feeling Hubby is going to have to bring something home with him for supper. Not so sure I'll get around to cooking anything today.

Thanks for your prayers!

Sesame Street

2010-02-01T18:41:00.005-06:00

The night before Munchkin's birthday, my sister took him and I to see Sesame Street Live! Before the show, we ate at Crayola Cafe. Here we are at dinner.

Getting ready for the show to begin.

Munchkin liked the show. Thanks for the birthday present Auntie D.!

On a different note, we went up to my parents' house on Saturday to celebrate with the grandparents and great grandparents. Well, Munchkin started running a fever on Saturday (which I'm learning is becoming par for the course when we go up north). He still has a fever today, a bad runny nose, a horrible cough, and no appetite. I took him to the doctor this morning. He has a virus. He has to do breathing treatments again and is on steroids, again. I feel like a broken record.

While at the doctor he threw up after they gave him some medicine. Then he threw up twice in the car before we ever left the parking lot. All over him, me, and the car seat. We came home and took a bath and he threw up right after we got out of the bath. Then he took a nap and threw up when he woke up. It has been quite the day to say the least. I'm pooped and ready for a break.

Any prayers for the little guy are much appreciated.

Two Years Ago Today

2010-01-29T21:04:00.008-06:00

(Get ready for lots of pictures in this post!)

Two years ago today I had no idea that on January 29th, 2010, I would wake up and see this little boy on my bed in his jammies ready to open his birthday presents. Two years ago today I couldn't imagine my baby as anything but a baby.

But I am ever so grateful that this is what I woke up to this morning.

I love our snuggle time in mommy and daddy's bed every morning. Two years ago today I loved snuggling with you too.

Two years ago today I dreamed about what type of personality you would have. I had no idea you'd be such a happy, joyful, excitable kid! I love that, and so many other things about you.

Two years ago today I couldn't wait to see you smile for the first time. Now, not only do I get to see you smile every day, but I also get to see you're excited face - and so many other fun expressions you make!

Two years ago today I longed for you to be a happy person. To be happy to belong to me and your daddy. Today there's not a doubt in my mind that you're happy.

Two years ago today I prayed about teaching you about Jesus. I continue to pray about your relationship about Jesus (and I always will) and today I got to give you your first devotion book.

Two years ago today I had no idea that by your second birthday you would know the words to Jesus Love Me and be able to sing it with me and your daddy. Nor did I know that when I'd ask you where Jesus lives you'd be able to point to your heart and say "Right there!" I pray that I'll be able to continue to teach you just what that means.

Two years ago today, I didn't know how quickly you would go from my baby to my little boy. I love you little boy.

Two years ago today I couldn't even imagine the amount of fun you'd bring into our lives.

Two years ago today, I had no idea how much you'd become my little buddy and how loud and busy my kitchen would get with your precious presence.

Happy 2nd Birthday Munchkin!

Mommy and Daddy love you more than you can imagine.

Thank you for being you.

I can't wait to spend another year with you!

Although these last two years have been the hardest of my life. You're worth every second. I can't wait to spend another year with you!

Love,

Mommy

What's That???

2010-01-25T22:32:00.003-06:00

Yep. It's started. "What's that?" is the question of the day around here. It officially started on Friday while we were reading a book.

I don't know how much I'll blog this week. It is going to be pretty busy around here. Tonight was the only night we don't have something going on. And let's face it, Munchkin doesn't give me a lot of time to blog during the day. I know I've posted during the day before. But that only happens during nap time or if I have prepared a post in advance and get a quick minute to put it up here. I post in advance quite a lot - usually on weekends or after he's gone to bed. If I didn't do that, let's face it, I probably wouldn't have a blog. It amazes me how much energy one kid can have.

On that note, he took an extra long nap today. And instead of doing other things while he napped, I slept too. Two glorious hours. Two hours!!! It was incredible.

Here's hoping I don't lay awake until 2 in the morning because of it.

Good night!

Home Sweet Home

2010-01-22T22:38:00.006-06:00

I feel so blessed to live where we do. I'm not talking about living in the U.S. with all our freedoms (although I do feel blessed about that) but I'm talking about living only a couple of hours away from where I grew up. It is nice to be able to not have to board a plane to go "home." It feels comforting to know that if I need to run up "home" for a day, I can handle that trip.

It is also comforting to know that it is at least two hours away from "home." I mean, I love my family and all, but I don't want them living next door. Absence makes the heart grow fonder. I truly believe I cherish the time I get to spend with family more now that I don't see them every day.

But ever since becoming a mother, the tendency to want to live in the same town as my family has increased. I don't think about it every day. I don't even think about it every month. But once in a blue moon, I just wish I could call up my mom and ask if she could come over. Or I wish that I could just load up Munchkin and go visit grandpa and grandma for the afternoon. I really felt that way today. I think what triggered it was the encounter I had with Mason's mom a couple of days ago. Munchkin and I were playing outside and she came running by. (Literally, she is a runner. Like 16 miles a day people. Crazy.) I asked her where Mason was and she said she sent him to grandma's for the day so she could get a good run in and then get a bunch done around the house. I have one word to describe my reaction: jealous.

Actually, at that moment I thought man, that must be nice and then I moved on with my day. But today full blown jealousy hit. I'm not sure exactly when it happened. Maybe it started when Munchkin was literally throwing himself on the floor screaming in Target. Or maybe it was when he found a back scratcher and started wildly, uncontrollably swinging it around the kitchen knocking things off the counter. I suppose it could have happened when he asked me to sing just so he could scream over me. No joke here. He would ask me to sing and as soon as I would start, he would scream.

So although it was a pretty typical day for us, my plan was to get the house clean today. (You now have my permission to laugh.) I knew I wouldn't get it done, but I thought I might at least get one toilet cleaned. Nope. Nada. Nothing. Never once did a Clorox Toilet Wand or any other cleaning product touch my fingertips today. Bummer.

My new plan is to clean the house when he goes to college. Consider yourself warned: you may want to start using the bathroom before you come to our house!

Is it the fact that I didn't get the house cleaned that I was jealous of Mason's mom? No. I know I'll clean eventually. I think what made the little green monster surface was the fact that all I wanted was some time at home. Alone. By myself. Without anyone else here. Peace. Quiet. Ahhh.

But alas, I'm a mommy to a soon-to-be two year old little boy. The chances of me ever experiencing peace and quiet in our house are slim to none - at least within the next 16 years. And I know that once I do get to enjoy that experience, I'll miss my little screaming, on-the-floor-trantruming, constantly-on-the-go little Munchkin. So rather than ship him off to grandma's for the day, I'll just hug him a little tighter, kiss him a little more and tell him I love him a little more often.

The last two days

2010-01-21T21:46:00.006-06:00

We've had a pretty normal past two days here. Yesterday morning Munchkin and I ran errands (which we do most mornings. It helps if we get out of the house at least once a day!) Then we came home and played outside for a bit.

Last night was Mom's Night Out for my MOPS group. They have one once a month. I usually don't go, for various reasons, but decided to last night. It was actually quite fun. We ate and SPIN (a pizza place). I know so many people that love it, but to me, it is just ok. But I still had a good time because of the company.

Today I had a MOPS table leader meeting. We also got a new entertainment center and a new tv delivered today. Out old tv was breaking down. It was a hand-me-down tv and worked really well for us for 5 and a half years of marriage. But after Christmas, we came home and everything was neon colors. Then it started going half black and white/half neon. So Hubby is super excited to have a new flat screen tv!!!

Munchkin is still having some trouble with sleeping which may be switching from being the result of teething discomfort to a habit. We'll give him a little while longer and then see if we need to crack down again on the sleep schedule. It is just so hard to know when he isn't big enough yet to tell us what is wrong.

Tomorrow I take Munchkin to get his 2 year pictures taken. He turns two a week from tomorrow!!! I absolutely cannot believe it. Where did the time go?

The little every day things.

2010-01-19T14:08:00.000-06:00

There are many days when I let the every day routine get to me. Sometimes I think that there must be more to life than changing diapers, washing dishes, cleaning up toys, etc. Don't get me wrong. I am so thankful to be able to stay at home. I wouldn't trade it for the world. I remember when Hubby and I started praying about whether or not to start trying to have children. I was almost in tears over my desire to stay at home raising our babies. I loved teaching, but it wasn't my strongest desire anymore.

But sometimes when I'm in those moments of wanting to give up, wanting to be anywhere but home, wanting to take a five minute break from being Mommy, that Munchkin will do something that makes my heart smile and I am brought back to my love of being Mommy.

I mean, who else could make doing laundry this much fun and look so cute?

A few random things...

2010-01-18T13:00:00.000-06:00

Munchkin is getting all four of his two year molars. They have really been hurting him. Poor guy. At least we're getting all four at once so we can get it over with! Unfortunately he has been having some insomnia with his teeth. Some nights it takes us a couple hours to get him to sleep. Other nights he wakes up at random hours - like 4:00 or 3:00. Knowing it is his teeth makes it more manageable for me. At least I know this won't last forever. Last night as I was trying to get him to sleep I just rocked and rocked with him - cherishing the moment with my little guy. He won't be little forever; nor will he let his mommy rock him forever.

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Papa and Mamma, thank you for the new hat and gloves.

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Great Uncle and Aunt Sefrt, we exchanged the train for these cool crayons. Munchkin is in love! They're stackable and in the shape of animals.

How to Build a Snowman

2010-01-17T12:47:00.004-06:00

Yesterday Munchkin and Hubby went outside to build a snowman while I made lunch. I loved watching them out the kitchen window as they worked in the backyard.

Here's Hubby trying to tell Munchkin how to make a snowball. I wonder how well that worked! Ha!

Hubby making a snowball.

Munchkin standing around looking cute while Hubby made the snowballs. :)

Munchkin sitting there looking cute as Hubby builds the snowman.

Munchkin deciding that maybe he should help.

Putting the finishing touches on the snowman.

Notice the pipe? Ha!

Munchkin and the Munchkin-sized snowman.

Child Labor???

2010-01-14T13:45:00.000-06:00

Sometimes Munchkin likes to help me do the laundry. Do you think I'm overworking him???? :)

He emptied the laundry basket, lay on top of the clothes, and said, "Night night."

But alas, he rested only momentarily and was then off and running again. He put this shirt around his neck and kept walking around the house saying "Frosty the Snowman. Frosty the Snowman." Hugh?

And what does the screwdriver have to do with anything?

I have no idea.

The post formerly titled "Wordless Wednesday" but henceforth is being called "Awake Since 4 a.m."

2010-01-13T06:15:00.000-06:00

Just say "No"

2010-01-12T14:06:00.000-06:00

***Sidenote: Guess what I found out today? I found out that our new flooring shows broken glass a lot easier than our old flooring. Sigh.***

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I love Laura Ingalls Wilder. I can't tell you the number of times I have read the series of Little House on the Prairie. That's right people, I said I can't tell you the number of times I've read the series. I've also been to her house in Mansfield, Missouri.

It is probably no surpise, then, that I'm also a fan of the show. I can remember watching it sometimes growing up, but it isn't like I've seen every single episode, like I have with I Love Lucy - but that's another story.

So since I own every season of I Love Lucy I thought I'd ask for Little House on the Prairie seasons for Christmas. Now I will be able to watch every. single. episode. But I only have season one, and I'm already halfway through it. What am I going to do until next Christmas???

I digress.

Anywho, I needed to trim Munchkin's nails before his nap. I needed something that would keep his attention away from me, but not mesmerize him so much that he wouldn't need to sleep. So I put in an episode of Little House on the Prairie. He got into it right away because in the first scene there were horses. Perfect!

After I got done trimming his nails, I left the room. I heard his feet in the kitchen and went to look. He went right to our drawer that has our measuring cups. He took one out and put the handle in his mouth. At first I thought that his teeth hurt and he wanted something to chew on since he is getting his two year molars. But then it hit me...Pa smokes a pipe. I went and looked at the tv, but at that time, Pa wasn't smoking. I went back a couple of scenes, to the ones I had missed while I was out of the room, and there was Pa smoking a pipe!!!

Making Cookies

2010-01-11T15:48:00.003-06:00

We didn't go outside much last week because of the cold weather. So we decided to make sugar cookies.

Ok, I decided to make sugar cookies. I got some cool new sprinkles for Christmas, and thought this was a perfect opportunity to use them. They were blue sprinkles, sharks, sea turtles, and topical fish. The plan was to keep Munchkin entertained for the evening. But before long, he moved onto more important things. - like emptying my kitchen cabinets.

The final product.....mmmmm good.

Disclaimer: Not as good as my mom's though!

I let Munchkin pick what color of icing he wanted. Of course I made white, but in an effort to make it more fun for him, I thought we'd made a second color. He is such a boy. Out of every color I offered, he wanted black.

New toy

2010-01-10T16:01:00.000-06:00

One toy that Munchkin got for Christmas was a new workbench - just like his Papa's. Here he is helping daddy put it together.

I had to get a picture from this angle too, to show you Hubby was actually using the instructions! Ha! (See in the lower left hand corner?)

Playing with the finished product. What fun!

New Year's Day

2010-01-09T22:15:00.000-06:00

On New Year's Day we headed up north again for two more Christmases. One with Hubby's mom's side of the family, and the other with Hubby's dad's side of the family.

Munchkin playing with his cousin, Baby G.

Munchkin wearing Hubby's elf hat and passing out presents.

Opening presents.

Thanks cousin Ben!

Great Gpa and Gma V. got a new TV!!!

Passing out presents...again.

Opening presents...agian.

After supper, Munchkin discovered toothpicks. He decorated his cookie with them.

New Flooring

2010-01-07T13:00:00.002-06:00

Here's a peek at our new flooring. I'll post more pictures of it later, but it really needs to be washed, so I'll wait until after I get that done! Also, here are pictures of Munchkin helping daddy put the finishing touches on everything.

Fixing the dishwasher so it will work again.

Measuring and marking quarter round for the coat closet. Munchkin started writing on the wall.

So then daddy gave him his own piece of wood to write on.

Then they had to take a break from their hard work to go play in the snow.

Getting bundled.

Christmas

2010-01-06T15:42:00.005-06:00

Here are some pictures of our time at my mom and dad's over Christmas.

Christmas Eve - Munchkin in his jammies.

Before the snow started.

Munchkin was sick while we were there, so we brought snow inside.

He then got well enough to play outside for just about 20 minutes. Here he is getting ready with my mom.

With Papa.

Snow as tall as Munchkin.

Mamma (Grandma) taught him how to fall into the big snow drift.

Munchkin's first snow angel.

Snow drifts as high as the fence.

Less than one month to go!

2010-01-05T09:30:00.000-06:00

We have less than one month until Munchkin turns two! I haven't done a post lately about his latest "tricks" so I thought now is as good a time as any.

He is talking up a storm. And not just babble. We are now able to have conversations with him. Thankfully he has moved out of the "no" stage so when we ask him a question, he'll give us an actual answer.

He is starting to pretend more and more. I catch him pretending with his toys and making them talk.

He still passionately loves music. He loves to dance and sing. The ABC's, Frosty the Snowman, Jingle Bells, and Baa Baa Black Sheep are his latest favorites.

His favorite thing to play is wrestling. And Hubby is teaching him how to tackle. So you can frequently find Munchkin on the floor, falling on someone/something, and/or running into you and grabbing your legs.

He sleeps all night long (thank goodness) bedtime routine starts at 8:00 p.m. and he wakes anywhere between 6:15-7:15 a.m. He takes one nap a day which currently lasts anywhere from one to two hours.

He loves to mimic us - our words and gestures.

Now that we don't have carpet in our dining room, when I'm working in the kitchen he brings a chair in from the dining room table, pulls it up right beside me, climbs up on it, and "helps" me work.

He is definitely throwing tantrums, but none that are too bad so far. He has also started pouting. It is sooo hard not to laugh at him!

He eats really well, but is getting somewhat picky. Fruits and veggies are still his favorites (besides chocolate).

He is wearing size 2T/24 month (pants are still too long but 18 month are too short) and is in a size 6 1/2 shoe.

His newest phrase to get hubby's attention is "Oh dad!" This kid is hilarious! :)

His favorite TV show is still Sesame Street - which makes mommy happy because I actually don't mind watching that one with him!

Routine at last!!!

2010-01-04T14:06:00.002-06:00

I'm so glad to finally be back into our daily routine. Granted, there are many days when I'm in the middle of my routine that I would give anything to be doing something other than the routine, but overall I function better with some sort of structure in my life.

Today Munchkin and I have thoroughly enjoyed being at home. We've read books, played with his new puzzles, worked in the kitchen, he's chased a "bug" around the house (one that Hubby and I got as a fun Christmas gift) and watched one of his new DVDs. I've got BBQ chicken in the crock pot, Munchkin just went down for a nap, and now I may go nap too! Couldn't ask for a better way to start our normal routine.

Soon I'll be posting pictures of our new flooring. I absolutely love it. It really changes the look of our kitchen. I feel like our house if finally becoming more "me."

Well, I'm off to nap. Hope everyone is staying warm!

Yep, I'm Here

2009-12-30T20:20:00.002-06:00

I know, I know. It has been about a week and a half since I've blogged. I have no problem admitting that I enjoyed a little break. I did write, but I don't know if I'll ever post what I wrote or not. This has been quite the last two weeks. Lots has happened. I don't feel like getting into it right now, but I did want to let everyone know that we're still here!

I spent the last week at my parents' house in the midst of a blizzard (literally snowed in for a couple of days) and came home to new flooring being installed! AND Munchkin has been sick. Again. Sigh. So needless to say I've been busy. My parents were great though and are always so helpful with Munchkin. I got a lot of "me" time, which was needed more than you know.

We head back up north on Friday for two more Christmases. Hopefully these celebrations won't get snowed out!

It has been a long day, so I'm off to sit and relax for awhile. Hopefully next week I'll get back into a routine and posts will become more regular again.

Until then...Happy New Year!

Now I "Know" My ABC's

2009-12-19T12:15:00.003-06:00

Here is Munchkin last night singing his ABC's. It is currently one of his favorite songs to sing. The only way I could get him to do it on video was after he heard a train outside. I told him the train wanted to hear him sing. Then, as Hubby was taping, Munchkin was so cute I had a hard time not laughing at him so that made Munchkin laugh. We love our boy! What a blessing he is!

Mannheim Steamroller

2009-12-18T09:44:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was a busy day. My mom came down to finish her Christmas shopping. I had a MOPS table leader Christmas party in the morning, so mom came and watched Munchkin for a couple of hours. They had lots of fun and it was nice for me to get out of the house by myself since I haven't been able to with Munchkin being sick.

After my mom left, Munchkin and I played. I got so distracted that I totally forgot to do laundry yesterday!! How could I have forgotten? Laundry day is always Thursday. So I'm doing it today and I just noticed I may not have enough laundry detergent to get all my loads done. I would just run out and get more, but Hubby has the car with the carseat today. Munchkin and I are stuck. I'll really be thrown off if I don't finish my laundry until Saturday. I am such a creature of habit it is ridiculous.

So what did I do yesterday instead of laundry? Well besides playing with the little guy I took a nap! A wonderful hour and a half nap. Ahhhh. I woke up 5 minutes before I was supposed to leave to go out to dinner with my sister, mom, and SIL*. My mom's birthday is in September, and she loves Mannheim Steamroller, so we bought her tickets to their Christmas concert which was last night. We met and ate at Zio's (yummy!) and then went to the concert. It was fabulous! I've always loved their music, but seeing them in person is a totally different experience. I think we need to make it a new tradition in our family to go see them every Christmas!

*sister-in-law

Last night really put me in the mood for Christmas. All I have left to do is wrap a few presents and then I'm officially ready. This morning for breakfast we had cinnamon toast and oranges. The house totally smelled like Christmas. There's just something about the smell of cinnamon and oranges that brings up feelings of the holiday.

Tomorrow we may take Munchkin to go see Santa. I haven't decided. He would probably love it...from a distance! :)

Making Munchkin Messes

2009-12-16T20:00:00.000-06:00

Sometimes while I work in the kitchen, Munchkin watches Sesame Street videos on the laptop. But this day he got into my measuring cups and spoons drawer.

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I ended up wrapping presents last night and put them waaay back as far as they could go under the tree. Thankfully our tree is in the corner so he can't just walk around the tree to get to the presents. He will have to literally crawl under the tree to get to the them. We'll see if he does or not. This morning there was one that wasn't as far back as it should have been and as I was dryng my hair this morning he kept bringing me little pieces of wrapping paper. So sorry cousin Gabe, but you will have a little hole in your present! :)

Somebody...

2009-12-15T13:17:00.000-06:00

...has got to teach this boy some table manners.

Notice the feet?

Gingerbread Boys

2009-12-14T14:51:00.002-06:00

In my family it is a long standing family tradition to make gingerbread boy cookies for Christmas. It started with my Grandma Bradfield. When we grandkids were young, we would go to grandpa and grandma's house and help decorate the cookies. When we grew up and moved away, grandma always made sure to send us the cookies. This year with busy schedules and sickness, I wasn't able to get together with the ladies in my family to make them. So, that meant that I had to recruit Hubby and Munchkin to help me. I made approx. 160 cookies yesterday! Whew!

**Munchkin Update: We ran out of medicine for him two days earlier than we were supposed to, so I called the doctor today. They went ahead and rescheduled his recheck-up for today instead of Friday. If he was better, they weren't going to prescribe him more meds. If he wasn't better, they would give us more meds and see us again on Friday. So this morning we visited the doctor and Munchkin is good as new!!! Thanks for all the prayers.

And we have more news...he has a two year molar poking through his gums on the bottom left hand side of his mouth!**

Godsister's Wedding

2009-12-13T20:33:00.000-06:00

Last weekend we were out of town at my godsister's wedding. Me, my brother and sister all got to be a part of her special day. It has only taken me a week to get these pictures posted - but better late than never!

The bride. My Godsister.

Me and my sister. We were the candlelighters.

The bridal party.

The ushers. My brother is on the far left.

Pretty. Pretty. They were married in the same church that Hubby and I were.

The bride and her family. My family has been friends with this one for as long as I can remember. We've been neighbors my whole life. When we kids were little we'd pile all into one car and go out to eat. We spent Christmas Eves together, and even went on vacation together. And the bride's mom even taught my sister, my brother and me in Kindergarten.

At the reception they had a craft table where kids could make snowflake ornaments. Munchkin was in love with the glue stick.

Munchkin and my sister, Auntie D.

Munchkin dancing with mamma.

Yes, that is Munchkin lying on the floor. Break dancing perhaps?! I didn't ask.

**Munchkin update: He continues to improve. No more getting sick to his stomach - thank goodness. Except for the occasional nasty cough, he is doing great!**

Christmas Decor

2009-12-12T12:04:00.001-06:00

Per my sister's request, here are some pictures of our Christmas Decor.

Our tree. (Obviously. Ha!) I am debating whether or not to put the wrapped presents under the tree this year. They may be too much of a temptation for our little guy.

The mantle. I have my Willow Tree nativity up in the middle. On the left is a little nativity carved out of a coconut that Hubby and I bought on our honeymoon in Hawaii. On the right is a painted wooden nativity that we got as a wedding present. I really like it.

Our stairway. Did you notice the stockings weren't on the mantle?

Our mantle is curved so the stocking holders I bought don't sit on it very well. Since I figured Munchkin might be pulling on and touching the stockings this year, I decided to put them here so he won't have a heavy stocking holder falling on his head. The pine cones in the garland are from my parents' trees. Munchkin and mamma picked them together so I found a place to use them.

The end table. My Boyd's Bear nativity that Munchkin loves to play with.

The wreath that hangs on the inside of our front door. It was given to our family last December when my Granny K passed away.

Our front door. We didn't have any lights on the outside of the house this year, so it looks pretty simple.

The sled sitting by our door.

I bought this wreath at Kohl's a few years ago.I like it because I can keep it up all winter.

I don't decorate in our kitchen (although I'd like to) but I did put this cookie jar out this year.

***Update on Munchkin***

He is continues to do well. However, this morning he threw up. We're hoping it is just from his medicine.

Play dough

2009-12-11T09:45:00.000-06:00

In order to keep Munchkin from overdoing it, we've been finding some nice quiet activities. Here we are playing with homemade playdough. Yes, he is wearing an apron. Yes, I already heard about it from my husband.

We used the Christmas cookie cutters to make fun shapes.

Munchkin decorated the gingerbread man and the snowman. If you look closely you can see that Munchkin gave the gingerbread man socks, shoes, mittes and a hat. He also gave the snowman an extra hat!

Look at this sweet face. Melts my heart.

It's gonna be a long one...

2009-12-10T08:42:00.003-06:00

Today the cabin fever is really starting to kick in. After breakfast this morning Munchkin kept going from window to window saying, "See snow!" Then he went to the front door and knocked (he wanted the door open) and then went to the garage door and knocked. He is really wanting to go play in the snow. Here he is looking longingly outside. And then please note in the bottom right hand corner his breathing machine sitting on the table next to the couch. Yep, it is going to be a long one.

***He did sleep through the night again! And I may have to go outside and get a bowl of snow and bring it in for him. Poor guy.***

Update #2

2009-12-09T20:13:00.003-06:00

Munchkin slept through the night again! Woohoo!
He has been such a trooper and I am feeling much better and more energized today.

Munchkin continues to have a bad cough and you can tell there is gunk in his lungs just by listening to him breathe. However he continues to be in a good mood. He hasn't run a fever but he does get pooped out earlier than usual. He is also getting used to not being as active as he wants to be - because when he does he has trouble breathing and has a coughing fit. So we've been finding quiet activities to do at home. Today we made homemade play dough. So fun!

And since I have more energy today I am actually putting more pictures on the computer so I can post them here. Be looking for more pictures coming up in the next few posts!

Update

2009-12-08T21:19:00.005-06:00

Munchkin slept through the night without needing a breathing treatment and hasn't run a fever since Sunday night.

Please keep me in your prayers as I am feeling really run down. I don't feel like I'm sick, just really tired. Hopefully tonight will be another night without having to get up with the sick guy.

Gosh Darn

2009-12-07T20:02:00.004-06:00

I didn't post this weekend because I was in my godsister's wedding. Yes, I have pictures, but don't have time to load them on to my computer and upload them onto my blog. Why? Because Munchkin went to the doctor today and we found out he has pneumonia!!! With a sick one I don't have lots of computer time.

Please keep Munchkin in your prayers. He has asthma so now that he has pneumonia I am watching him ever so closely. I have to stay on top of this or it could be bad news for the little guy. Last night I slept on the air mattress on the floor in his room. I will probably do that again tonight because if he has a coughing fit in the night I am to give him a breathing treatment. (Daddy is giving him a breathing treatment right now) Last night I slept in his room because we weren't sure what he had, but knew he had a terrible cough and was having some trouble breathing. By being in his room I could monitor his breathing better. Thankfully he hasn't had a fever since last night. But the doctor warned us it could come and go over the next few days.

Please also say a prayer for me and Hubby as Munchkin is contagious until about Wednesday morning as that is when he'll have been on medicine for 24 hours. You know how it goes, I don't have time to get sick!

I'll try and keep you updated on the little guy. Everyone stay safe in the big snowstorm that is headed our way. I'm especially thinking of my dad as he carries mail on those country roads in the bad conditions.

Christmas decorations are up!

2009-12-03T09:36:00.003-06:00

Yesterday Munchkin and I put the Christmas decorations up. Christmas is going to be so much fun this year because our little guy is starting to really get into it.

When I opened up the first box and started pulling stuff out, you should have seen the look on his face. His little face just lit up and he squealed. He was so excited! He wanted to see everything and touch everything. He played and played. It was so much fun to watch.

Last night we decorated the tree. Munchkin loves it and calls it the "tistis tee." It was so much fun because he actually helped put ornaments on. That was probably the most fun I have ever had decorating a Christmas tree. Of course he only put the ornaments on the low branches, but then he started putting more than one on a branch so that it was too heavy and the ornament would fall off. Every time that happened he said, "Too big." and came looking for a different ornament to place. We've only had the tree up since last night, but the lower half of it has been redecorated several times already! I love how much fun he is having.

I have a small Boyd's Bear nativity that I set on a table within his reach. He has been having lots of fun playing with all the figurines. I've been having lots of fun using that play time to tell him about the real meaning of Christmas - who each of the figurines is and what role they play in the story. So much fun!

What a wonderful time of year!!! This Christmas will be so much fun!

New carpet

2009-12-02T14:38:00.004-06:00

It is difficult to tell much of a difference in these pictures, but believe me, in real life, the new carpet looks totally different than the old. Part of it also might be because the "before" was taken at night and the "after" was taken during the day. We put it in our living room, our main stairs and the upstairs hallway.

Living room before

Living room after.

If you look in the bottom left hand corner of this picture, you can see the old carpet next to the new. We still have the old carpet in our dining room (which is what you see in the picture) for now, but soon we'll be replacing it with some new flooring!!! So excited!

Another living room shot - Before

After

Stairs Before

Stairs After

Hallway Before

Hallway After

Still here

2009-12-01T22:48:00.003-06:00

I haven't touched a computer since Friday (until now) so I apologize for my lack in posts. We were out of town Thursday through Sunday. Munchkin spent an extra night at the grandparents' because yesterday we got new carpet. It was easier to not have him around and be in the way. So I'll be posting before and after pictures tomorrow. Hopefully more substantial posts will be coming later this week. Munchkin is now offically 22 months old!!! Yikes! So I need to update you on his latests.

Still being thankful...

2009-11-27T21:43:00.003-06:00

Our Thanksgiving celebrating started yesterday. We drove up to Hubby's parents and at with my MIL's (mother-in-law's) family. Last night Hubby and I went on a date and left Munchkin home with the grandparents and aunt and uncle. It was so nice! It was a little weird going on a date as husband and wife going to the places we used to go when we were just dating.

Today Munchkin and Hubby stayed at his parents' while I went shopping with my mom. My sister met up with us for most of the day. No, we didn't wake up in the middle of the night to catch the mega sales, but still faced the crowds and got some more Christmas shopping done. It was almost Munchkin's bedtime by the time I got back tonight. He had quite the day too. There's nothing like playing in the good country air! He also made some sugar cookies with grandma. I'm not sure what all else he did, but let's just say when I got back he was literally running around in circles and "screaming." He is having the time of his life.

Tomorrow we have another family dinner and we'll be watching the Mizzou game. Tomorrow night we're having a get together at Hubby's parents' house. Friends and family are coming over for games, football, socializing, and my MIL's famous nachos!!! (As if we're not eating enough! Ha!) And Sunday we are getting together with some more family for some more eating before heading home.

I hope everyone is enjoying Thanksgiving as much as we are!

Thanksgiving Eve

2009-11-25T20:27:00.003-06:00

Today I am thankful for my ordinary life. I get to stay at home every day with my Munchkin while Hubby goes off to do a job he loves. My days consist of cooking, playing, doing dishes, cleaning, laundry, reading books, changing diapers, dancing, wrestling, exploring outside, capturing bugs (for fun...oh how my life has changed), coloring, and building with blocks.

When people ask me "What's new?" my answer is usually "nothing." Don't get me wrong, Munchkin is learning, growing, and changing every day, but really, nothing in my life changes much. And for that, I'm thankful. Granted, sometimes I would like some change - a chance to get away from my every day routine. Even just a chance to get out of the house is as appealing as a Hawaiin vacation! But pretty much, my life is constant.

I feel like I should be knocking on wood or something. Now that I've written about how my life is the same every day I can just feel it- something is going to happen and cause upheaval. Well, even if it does this thing will remain the same: my God is who He says he is and always will be. And for that, I'm especially thankful.

Thankful Tuesday

2009-11-24T16:20:00.003-06:00

Today I am thankful for my family: parents, siblings, grandparents, in-laws, Hubby and Munchkin. I am so blessed to be surrounded by family who loves me, loves Christ and loves each other.

My family, and Hubby's, actually enjoy spending time with each other! What a gift!!! Not every family is this way, which honestly is difficult for me to imagine. Not only do I love the family I grew up in, but I love the family I married into.

My prayer is that the family Hubby and I are starting will enjoy spending time with each other and will make it a priority. He and I both have such a rich family heritage that is so important for us to pass on.

I am really looking forward to being able to spend time with family over this holiday and continue to share Munchkin with them. I hope that he is learning how valuable they are.

Thanksgiving Week

2009-11-23T14:48:00.002-06:00

With this being the week of Thanksgiving, the next few days I would like to write about those things that have currently been on my mind that I am thankful for. Today, I will start with that which is most important to me, my faith.

Lately our pastor has been preaching on the book of 1 Peter. The letter was written to a people, much like the Christians of today. Just as the Christians during the period of the letter, we too live in a world that does not accept us. We are seen as "wrong" and "evil" for what we believe. Daily we are in constant struggle to keep the rights that we have. Furthermore, we feel more and more like we are refugees, aliens, etc. We feel this way because simply, this is not our home.

Man, have I been feeling that way lately. Did anyone watch the American Music Awards last night? If that didn't make me feel homesick for Heaven, I don't know what would. Our culture today is shocking, and it is getting worse. I am so incredibly thankful for my faith and the knowledge of Christ and what asking Him to enter my life has done. Because of this faith I can watch things like the American Music Awards and be heartbroken over the things people without faith value. I know that happiness is not what is most important. I know that a life with Christ provides a peace and hope that is more valuable than momentary happiness. I know that joy isn't found in having a lot of money, everyone knowing your name, and wearing expensive clothes. Because of my faith my heart is filled with songs about grace and mercy, hope, peace, comfort, joy, holiness, etc. not things like having sex, being powerful, breaking up, or how wonderful I am.

So today, and basically every day, I am most thankful for my faith. What are you most thankful for?

Helping Daddy

2009-11-20T09:26:00.000-06:00

Helping Daddy put a new water filter on the kitchen faucet. (Notice Munchkin is trying to climb onto the counter. Surprising? I think not.)

As Seen In...

2009-11-18T21:50:00.001-06:00

...my kitchen.

Notice the two guys on the right. Apparently there were fatalities in the accident! Ha!

A Day At the Arboretum with Daddy

2009-11-17T16:01:00.001-06:00

These pictures clearly weren't taken today because this morning we woke up to snow on the ground - just a light dusting. It quickly melted and rain returned.

The other day while I was out and about, Hubby took Munchkin to the Arboretum. Hubby is just the best daddy. He loves our little guy so much. He is such a help with him at home and loves spending time with him. And Munchkin is pretty attached to his daddy. He wants to be just like him.

On a walk.

"You comin' dad?"

Taking a break for a quick snack.

Playing in the sticks and leaves.

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You may have noticed my "Praying for Stellan" button is gone on the right. If you have followed his mom's blog, you will know that God performed a miracle and Stellan's heart is healed!

It finally happened

2009-11-16T19:27:00.000-06:00

It is no secret that I have struggled with Munchkin's napping situation. A couple of weeks ago he finally did what my mom said he eventually would.

He was watching a video and I went to the kitchen for a couple of minutes. When I got back, this is what I saw...

He slept for over two hours!!!! Praise God!

Birthday Celebrations

2009-11-15T21:32:00.004-06:00

Last night we celebrated my dad's 60th birthday at my sister's house.
After supper we had some play dough time!

Playing with Papa.

My sister, Munchkin, and Dad.

Next came the cake. This cake was so yummy! My sister had it made at a local bakery. It was white cake with strawberry mousse between the layers. Yummy!

Taking the frosting off and eating it while we sang to Dad.

Helping Papa open his presents.

"Look Papa! A laptop!"

Dad speechless because of his new toy! :)

This morning we met for brunch and then headed to my sister's house to spend more time together. It is quite rare getting us three kids together at once.

Me, My Sister, Dad and My Brother

Papa, Munchkin, Mamma

Dad and all his "kids."

Happy Birthday Dad! I hope you enjoyed your weekend. We certainly had fun celebrating with you. We love you!

Happy 60th Birthday Dad!!!!!!

2009-11-14T11:56:00.004-06:00

Today my dad turns 60! He has been the most wonderful father (and now grandfather) for as long as I can remember. He played a big part in my faith walk and developing my relationship with God. He also taught me what a marraige should be like and how family should be a top priority. He has also taught me not to take things too seriously. I am so thankful for having him in my life and now, in Munchkin's life. Those two really love each other, as you can see...

Happy Birthday Papa!
We are looking forward to celebrating with you tonight. We love you!

And today...

2009-11-12T21:14:00.004-06:00

Munchkin woke up with no fever! In fact, he had no fever all day. Here's praying that he is completely healed. A few times today he did say his mouth hurt, and he was chewing on things quite a bit. I tried to feel around in his mouth, but nothing felt swollen. He isn't acting like he has a sore throat - he is eating and drinking fine. Maybe his two year molars are starting to give him trouble. Hmmm....if only he could tell us exactly what was going on.

I do know however that he has to be a sore little guy tonight. He is all boy and is turning into quite the daredevil and is starting to injure himself. His new favorite thing is to get off the couch by going head first. He doesn't hurt himself when he does this, but this morning he thought it would be fun to go off Mommy and Daddy's bed head first. Our bed is quite a bit higher off the ground than the couch. His little face got carpet burn.

Soon after that, he was trying to turn Hubby's radio on (which is on the nightstand) and hit the side of his face with the corner of the nightstand.

Then, while I was trying to sort laundry today he was playing on our bed again and covering himself with the clothes. We had music playing so all at once he got up, started dancing, and fell and hit Hubby's nightstand with his face.

Later, he ran into his bathroom (I usually keep his bathroom door shut, but I was putting toys away at the time and he has bath toys strung all throughout the house so I had the door open to put them where they belong.) and I immediately heard crying. He was in the bathtub holding his elbow. I can only assume he fell into the tub.

Awhile after that he and I were going downstairs and my arms were full so I told him he would have to go down the stairs by himself. He does this every day by safely going down on his tummy (feet first) or on his bottom, so I didn't think it would be a problem. Little did I know that he now thinks he is a big boy and can walk down the stairs. Yep, he totally fell down the stairs. Good grief!

I know this probably makes me sound like a horrible mother who is never monitoring her child. Believe me, I could go on and on about the things I caught him doing and was able to prevent him from hurting himself. For example, he was trying to stand on a little table in his room that holds his CD player. I also caught him trying to get off our couch via the armrest. He also attempted to climb up onto our china hutch from a chair. Tonight while I vacuumed the dining room, I had the dining room chairs lined up in the kitchen. Munchkin was attempting to climb onto the counter, into the sink and over the back of one chair into the seat of another chair all within a 30 second period of time.

So as you can see, Munchkin is feeling much better! But he is probably a little sore.

So far...

2009-11-11T20:32:00.003-06:00

Munchkin slept through the night! Praise Jesus! This morning his temperature was 100 degrees. I gave him Tylenol, he hasn't had a fever since. He has lost his appetite, somewhat and looked a little pale today. His eyes were also looking pretty tired after his nap. Here's praying he sleeps through the night again and that his fever doesn't come back. Thanks for all the prayers.

Sickness please stay away

2009-11-10T12:53:00.003-06:00

***Update***
They don't want me to bring Munchkin in because they are thick with flu patients. Since he isn't acting lethargic (at all) and is still eating ok and doesn't have a cough, we'll just keep using Tylenol. If he still has a fever on Friday, we are to call and make an appointment. Here's praying that he continues to act ok and that the Tylenol helps AND that he doesn't have a fever still on Friday. Oh yeah, and that he sleeps ok tonight!

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Yesterday Munchkin was rubbing his eyes and said, "Eye hurt." I checked it out, and everything was fine. This morning he woke up (slept in longer than usual) and felt warm. We took his temp. and he was fine. When I picked him up from MOPS, he was rubbing his eyes again and saying they hurt. When we got home, he pointed to his nose and said, "Nose hurt." I took his temperature, and it was 101.3. I called his doctor and am waiting for a nurse to call back. Please, oh please, sickness stay away!!!

My Snuggle Bug

2009-11-09T19:55:00.000-06:00

Munchkin came to me and asked if he could watch a video. After I got done putting it in the DVD player, I turned around and this is what I saw.

Chuck E. Cheese

2009-11-06T08:35:00.000-06:00

On Sunday night, I went with three other ladies on our street to the Sprint Center to see the show So You Think You Can Dance. I have never watched a full episode of the show on TV, but thought it would be a fun. The show was incredible, but I don't think I had as much fun as the boys did without Mommy being around. Mason's mom was one of the ladies who went with us to the show, so Munchkin, Hubby, Mason and his dad all went to Chuck E. Cheese. It was Munchkin's first trip.

He looks so excited!

Looking not quite so excited. Maybe this one was toward the end of the night???!

This is Mason and his daddy on the screen on the right.

I forgot to post a picture of Munchkin looking up at Chuck E. Cheese. Hubby said that our little guy just loved that mouse! Hmm...something that dances and sings that he loves - no surprise there!!!

Munchkin and his friends

2009-11-05T09:02:00.000-06:00

Munchkin's best friend is Mason. He lives two doors down. Mason's mom has a daycare and takes care of twin 4 year old girls. The four of them play together quite often. They really are the cutest quartet.

Outside having a snack.

Munchkin and Mason. I wonder what they're talking about????

Playing in our leaves.

Latest Happenings

2009-11-04T08:49:00.004-06:00

I'm glad you have been enjoying the pictures (those of you who have told me you are) but I'm taking a quick break to give a status on the Munchkin.

Last Thursday he turned 21 months. Here's what's been going on with him lately:

Sunday morning he was playing in our bedroom while Hubby and I were still trying to sleep (good parenting, I know) and Munchkin said "A, B, C, D!" What a genius! (No, he hasn't done it again since, but loves to pretend to sing his ABC's.)
Monday night he was lining up blocks and counted to seven. Again...genius! (Again, no he hasn't done this again.)
Yesterday he knew he colors green and yellow and point things out that were those colors. (Knowing his colors is a skill that still comes and goes.)
He is now pretending his food is animals.
He is making short sentences.
He has started trying to dress himself.
He continues to climb on everything and his latest hobby is climbing up on something and then falling off of it.
He pretends to read out loud.
He is starting to sing and pretends sticks and things are horns and pretends to play music on them. Once he is done playing a song he says, "Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you." Where he got this, I have no idea. But I am learning every day how much he is like his father! :)
And last, but certainly not least, his favorite word is still "no".