Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Monday, December 5, 2011
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Landon's new....
Back log: Aug 18th
PUPPY!!
Landon kind of got a early birthday present this year. A birthday present is how we justified our rather hasty, non-responsible happily made decision. Our friend needed to find a home for a puppy. So... Callie found her new home with us. She is a sweet dog and although she still is VERY much a puppy with all the trouble puppies get in she aims to please to the best of her ability. I have my hands full to say the least with a puppy, baby, toddler (almost preschooler), dog, 2 cats and husband but it is a great handful to have. I think that Callie will fit in nicely to our growing family. Just like Chaing, who was also a unplanned addition, she will prove to be a great member and offer a lot of fun and love to the Williams family.
I had lots of pictures but these are the only one, I have right now. Josh is still hoping to recover more pictures. These were from my phone, so they are poor quality.
PUPPY!!
Landon kind of got a early birthday present this year. A birthday present is how we justified our rather hasty, non-responsible happily made decision. Our friend needed to find a home for a puppy. So... Callie found her new home with us. She is a sweet dog and although she still is VERY much a puppy with all the trouble puppies get in she aims to please to the best of her ability. I have my hands full to say the least with a puppy, baby, toddler (almost preschooler), dog, 2 cats and husband but it is a great handful to have. I think that Callie will fit in nicely to our growing family. Just like Chaing, who was also a unplanned addition, she will prove to be a great member and offer a lot of fun and love to the Williams family.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Finishing out the summer....with some big news
Back log: Aug
Big news.....
Landon can swim on his own. He still struggles a little with getting his head up but he can do it. He loves swimming. He can hold his breath and swim for a long time, for an almost 3 year old. Arabella also now likes the pool. She also can hold her breath although is not as good of a sport as Landon was at her age. I can't wait for next summer. I am sure Bella will be racing to catch up to her big brother swimming along like a little fish.
Again these are only some of our pictures of us swimming. We are still missing of the ones with Landon swimming underwater.
Big news.....
Landon can swim on his own. He still struggles a little with getting his head up but he can do it. He loves swimming. He can hold his breath and swim for a long time, for an almost 3 year old. Arabella also now likes the pool. She also can hold her breath although is not as good of a sport as Landon was at her age. I can't wait for next summer. I am sure Bella will be racing to catch up to her big brother swimming along like a little fish.
Again these are only some of our pictures of us swimming. We are still missing of the ones with Landon swimming underwater.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Motherhood: a job? a passion? a struggle?
I have been on quite the blogging break. Not really on purpose but
life and computer issues have gotten in the way. Hopefully I will be
able to catch up and stay up to date at least for a little while (at
least for the sake of recording things for the kids and scrapbooking
(whenever I get to that!). Motherhood always gets in the way of what I
what to do for my self. But I love it and although hard at times I
would never trade it. I have been working on this blog post for a little bit
and wanted to share.
I have been doing a lot of thinking for the past few months. I feel like I have seen many friends lost and hurting and it really has been hurting me. I know we all struggle on a daily basis to get through life. I feel like by sharing my struggles maybe, hopefully, others can be encouraged. Then again, maybe I am just being arrogant in thinking that my experiences matters but I am going to share anyway. I pray that it helps someone who is hurting. If you read my blog, I am guessing you are a friend or relative. I want you to know I pray for all my friends and relatives. I am not always the best at making clear what I mean to say but I hope these words can provide some wisdom into someone’s life. I hope that you know that I want to be a good listener and am always up for talking no matter the time of day. Even if it is at 2am (which I seem too often spend doing just that). I am not promising I will say the right things or even be a good guide but I do promise you my heart is in the right place.
Motherhood: a job? a passion? a struggle?
To me it is all of the above and a LOT more. I absolutely LOVE being called "Mommy." At the same time sometimes I just completely lose my temper (and my sanity). It is the best and hardest thing I have ever done in my life!
I have always been proud to be a hard worker. My mom and dad taught me from the time I was a young girl that you don't get anywhere in life without hard work. I had a job the day I turned 16. I use to volunteer at a squadron on the Air Force base my Dad worked at 10 hours a week for 2 years before I turned 16 plus volunteer at a cat shelter for 5 hours a week (I also continued to volunteer after I turned 16). I worked a total of 40 hours per week the first summer of being 16 working two different jobs. I never shied away from hard work. Now don't get me wrong, I didn't just do it because I loved working. I also loved all the praise I got from my bosses. Working hard was very gratifying to me.
I work REALLY hard at being the BEST mom in the world. I was always afraid I wouldn't be a good mom. I know now after being a mom for 3 years that it is impossible for me to be the "best" or at least what I thought was the best. I thought I could do it all -that is until I became a mom. Being a mom is really hard. Yes there are benefits, for instance I have gotten to “work” at the pool swimming with my son and sister in law the first summer I had my "job" of being a mother. What other job do you get to go to splash parks, the mall, playground, or even run to the grocery store to get your own groceries while working? Not many I can think of. When I say being a mom is hard I don't mean in the same way being a construction worker or a bank managers job is hard. It is hard because it is one of the few jobs you can't ever walk away from when you feel have had enough of it. You can't tell your boss you need a 15 minute break. You don't get raises. You don't get paid vacations. You don't always even get a "Good job Krystle, boy was that a tough day but you made it" from my children. Most people would also say you don't get paid. You do get paid, just not in any standard currency. You get paid in the best way, in LOVE. Love the best thing in the world. Love is also the reason why motherhood is so hard. Being a mom is the "job" I have had to put the most of my heart into.
Being a wife sometimes can be hard too but Josh and I can talk about things when they go wrong and work through them (and no they are no always resolved right away, things sometimes take time but at least we can talk through them.) You can't talk though things all the time with a 3 year old or a 7 month old. I can't explain to Landon why I yelled and screamed at him just because he didn't listen to me. I can't explain to Arabella why I can't stop making her gums hurt even though I know she wants my help. I have put more of my heart into being a mom than any other job – and I still struggle with feeling like a failure. I make so many mistakes. Sometimes I cry myself to sleep thinking about all the "damage" I have caused my children by the mistakes I make. Those always seem to be the nights when I also get woken up 5 times in the middle of the night because of someone needing to nurse, a diaper needs to be changed, or a scary dream needs to be chased away. I am not even including my “job” of running a household and the overwhelming feelings I have about never completing the seemingly never-ending lists of tasks that pile up day after day in the home that about that.
I have help too, I have an amazing husband who does so many wonderful things to help make my job easier. Just today he took both of the kids while he cleaned the church. I KNOW it makes his job take a lot longer. I know sometimes he has to go back the next day or in the middle of the night just to finish because he has the kids with him. He does things like that all the time without complaint. He also is a super cheerleader for me. He thanks me for caring for his children every day. I KNOW I have it great. Regardless, Satan has a field day with my insecurities about being a good mom and a hard worker. He takes those feelings and runs with them.
I also know that my Lord knows my struggles and His heart aches for my pain, although some days it is REALLY hard for me to remember. He loves me so much, more than I even love my own children (which is sometimes really hard for me to believe.) He sees me at my best and at my weakest. He knows all my faults but he still loves me. He knows that as long as I seek Him (which I struggle with also) that I will be the best mom I can be.
Being a mom isn't just a job, it is a God-given mission. I directly impact two (and maybe in the future more) lives. As Landon and Arabella grow up their foundation of beliefs and goals in life will be based on my teachings, Josh's teachings and the love that we show them. Our love will always be a reference of understanding to them of God’s love for them. Even as a teacher I didn't have that much power over a person's life. Being a mom isn't just a job, it is the most important spiritual mission I will ever have in my life.
If you are a mom who has it all together, your house is always clean, your children are always well behaved, your husband always has all of his needs met, and you always have a smile on your face, and you find time to sleep at night PLEASE PLEASE call me and tell me your secrets. But if you are a mom and you have felt like me, remember you aren't alone. Moms out there know the job isn't easy, and so does our Lord. Think about what He goes through seeing us search for Him, making mistakes and hurting ourselves and dealing with the consequences. Just remember He loves us at our weakest.
I have been doing a lot of thinking for the past few months. I feel like I have seen many friends lost and hurting and it really has been hurting me. I know we all struggle on a daily basis to get through life. I feel like by sharing my struggles maybe, hopefully, others can be encouraged. Then again, maybe I am just being arrogant in thinking that my experiences matters but I am going to share anyway. I pray that it helps someone who is hurting. If you read my blog, I am guessing you are a friend or relative. I want you to know I pray for all my friends and relatives. I am not always the best at making clear what I mean to say but I hope these words can provide some wisdom into someone’s life. I hope that you know that I want to be a good listener and am always up for talking no matter the time of day. Even if it is at 2am (which I seem too often spend doing just that). I am not promising I will say the right things or even be a good guide but I do promise you my heart is in the right place.
Motherhood: a job? a passion? a struggle?
To me it is all of the above and a LOT more. I absolutely LOVE being called "Mommy." At the same time sometimes I just completely lose my temper (and my sanity). It is the best and hardest thing I have ever done in my life!
I have always been proud to be a hard worker. My mom and dad taught me from the time I was a young girl that you don't get anywhere in life without hard work. I had a job the day I turned 16. I use to volunteer at a squadron on the Air Force base my Dad worked at 10 hours a week for 2 years before I turned 16 plus volunteer at a cat shelter for 5 hours a week (I also continued to volunteer after I turned 16). I worked a total of 40 hours per week the first summer of being 16 working two different jobs. I never shied away from hard work. Now don't get me wrong, I didn't just do it because I loved working. I also loved all the praise I got from my bosses. Working hard was very gratifying to me.
I work REALLY hard at being the BEST mom in the world. I was always afraid I wouldn't be a good mom. I know now after being a mom for 3 years that it is impossible for me to be the "best" or at least what I thought was the best. I thought I could do it all -that is until I became a mom. Being a mom is really hard. Yes there are benefits, for instance I have gotten to “work” at the pool swimming with my son and sister in law the first summer I had my "job" of being a mother. What other job do you get to go to splash parks, the mall, playground, or even run to the grocery store to get your own groceries while working? Not many I can think of. When I say being a mom is hard I don't mean in the same way being a construction worker or a bank managers job is hard. It is hard because it is one of the few jobs you can't ever walk away from when you feel have had enough of it. You can't tell your boss you need a 15 minute break. You don't get raises. You don't get paid vacations. You don't always even get a "Good job Krystle, boy was that a tough day but you made it" from my children. Most people would also say you don't get paid. You do get paid, just not in any standard currency. You get paid in the best way, in LOVE. Love the best thing in the world. Love is also the reason why motherhood is so hard. Being a mom is the "job" I have had to put the most of my heart into.
Being a wife sometimes can be hard too but Josh and I can talk about things when they go wrong and work through them (and no they are no always resolved right away, things sometimes take time but at least we can talk through them.) You can't talk though things all the time with a 3 year old or a 7 month old. I can't explain to Landon why I yelled and screamed at him just because he didn't listen to me. I can't explain to Arabella why I can't stop making her gums hurt even though I know she wants my help. I have put more of my heart into being a mom than any other job – and I still struggle with feeling like a failure. I make so many mistakes. Sometimes I cry myself to sleep thinking about all the "damage" I have caused my children by the mistakes I make. Those always seem to be the nights when I also get woken up 5 times in the middle of the night because of someone needing to nurse, a diaper needs to be changed, or a scary dream needs to be chased away. I am not even including my “job” of running a household and the overwhelming feelings I have about never completing the seemingly never-ending lists of tasks that pile up day after day in the home that about that.
I have help too, I have an amazing husband who does so many wonderful things to help make my job easier. Just today he took both of the kids while he cleaned the church. I KNOW it makes his job take a lot longer. I know sometimes he has to go back the next day or in the middle of the night just to finish because he has the kids with him. He does things like that all the time without complaint. He also is a super cheerleader for me. He thanks me for caring for his children every day. I KNOW I have it great. Regardless, Satan has a field day with my insecurities about being a good mom and a hard worker. He takes those feelings and runs with them.
I also know that my Lord knows my struggles and His heart aches for my pain, although some days it is REALLY hard for me to remember. He loves me so much, more than I even love my own children (which is sometimes really hard for me to believe.) He sees me at my best and at my weakest. He knows all my faults but he still loves me. He knows that as long as I seek Him (which I struggle with also) that I will be the best mom I can be.
Being a mom isn't just a job, it is a God-given mission. I directly impact two (and maybe in the future more) lives. As Landon and Arabella grow up their foundation of beliefs and goals in life will be based on my teachings, Josh's teachings and the love that we show them. Our love will always be a reference of understanding to them of God’s love for them. Even as a teacher I didn't have that much power over a person's life. Being a mom isn't just a job, it is the most important spiritual mission I will ever have in my life.
If you are a mom who has it all together, your house is always clean, your children are always well behaved, your husband always has all of his needs met, and you always have a smile on your face, and you find time to sleep at night PLEASE PLEASE call me and tell me your secrets. But if you are a mom and you have felt like me, remember you aren't alone. Moms out there know the job isn't easy, and so does our Lord. Think about what He goes through seeing us search for Him, making mistakes and hurting ourselves and dealing with the consequences. Just remember He loves us at our weakest.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
School days
Back Log -Aug
Landon is doing some preschool work this year. I didn't buy a curriculum because there is just so many free resources for the with lower grades. We will be learning more about letter, Landon knows the whole ABC song and can recognize about 20-24 letters. He also knows about 15-18 sounds that the letters make. We will be learning more about numbers- Landon can count 1-11 perfectly, 1-10 in Spanish most of the time. We will also be learning memory verses, shapes, coins, nursery rythms, calendar, and weather. He loves doing his calendar. He looks forward to that the most.
We had a great first day of school. Landon really enjoyed it but was hesitant to start the first day. Arabella cuddled, crawled, played, slept and nursed through our first day.
Landon is doing some preschool work this year. I didn't buy a curriculum because there is just so many free resources for the with lower grades. We will be learning more about letter, Landon knows the whole ABC song and can recognize about 20-24 letters. He also knows about 15-18 sounds that the letters make. We will be learning more about numbers- Landon can count 1-11 perfectly, 1-10 in Spanish most of the time. We will also be learning memory verses, shapes, coins, nursery rythms, calendar, and weather. He loves doing his calendar. He looks forward to that the most.
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| Landon the Preschooler! |
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| Arabella the Sister of the Preschooler |
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| Our Lesson Plans |
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Grandpa Williams
After dropping Josh off at work Landon and I were talking on he way home. We were going to see Grandpa Williams that evening so we had been talking about him the through out the week.
L: "I don't know Gpa's name."
M: "Did you mean Gpa Williams?"
L: Yes.
L: "What is his name?"
M: "What is your middle name?"
L: "Bradford" followed by him laughing.
I then asked Landon what Gpa Williams name
L: Bradford
M: yes
L: "What is is name though mommy?"
K: Bradford Dean Williams
L: I don't call him that.
M: I don't either, I call him Dad.
He looked confused.
I told him he was daddy father and since I married daddy he was my father I law. So I called him father or dad.
L: Why did you marry daddy?
M: I love Daddy.
L: "Why did you bury him?
Apparently he misunderstood me.
September 9th
Crash!
Sadly a couple of weeks ago our computer crashed. Not only does this cause me to be more behind on my blogging, emailing and such we also lost some of my photos. I was bad and didn't back them up. Josh thinks he might still be able to get them but.... We will see. He did manage to recover some pictures so far and all of our documents. I have faith he will do his best I just am pessimist about the whole thing. Super mad at myself. Josh did get the computer up and running, Yay for my wonderful husband! A few post will have to wait(hopefully) for pictures.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Florida, Florida, Florida
At the end of July, Jessica come down to Florida to visit for 2 weeks. The same day she arrive Josh's brother Jon and his wife Merry arrived in Florida. Jon and Merry will now be living in the Niceville/ Crestview area of Florida!! Jon got out of the Marines and will now be in the Reserves as he goes to school and in just a few months be becoming a daddy to baby Owen!!! (This will be BIG for me- come November I will be an Aunt for the first time!!!! I am super excited!!!!!)
Jon had to check in with his Reserve group in Jacksonville. On the way back from there, Jon and Merry stopped in Gainesville for the night. They arrived right before Landon woke up and he was so excited when he got up. Landon received a awesome fold up play tent with Lightening McQueen on it. Arabella loved meeting her aunt and uncle for the first time. The next day Jon and Merry played with their niece and nephew while I cleaned and packed. Josh got off work as nap time was rolling around so it was about time to leave. Landon rode with Jon and Merry and Josh, Arabella and I were planning on leaving with in the hour after them. That didn't happen. Things took longer than planned which seems to happen a lot with a baby around. Plus as we were ready to go the car battery decided to die. Josh had just driven to the gas station to get gas and air in the tires less than an hour beforehand so I don't really know what happened. Thankfully, our nice neighbor offered us a jump not too long after we realized what happened and the car was fine. It has been since then too. So Landon ended up by getting there about 2-3 hours before us. He didn't mind because Aunt Jessica, Jamiie, Uncle J, Grandma W and Grandpa W were there waiting for everyone to arrive. I think this was the longest Landon was away from both Josh and I. I was stressing a little just because I am a little crazy and overprotective. I was really glad Landon was able to spend lots of time with his family because I think that is SOOO important.(so Jon and Merry don't take offense to this overprotective mommy's worries) Aunt Merry did a great job at helping me cope with my worries. She kept me updated every hour with text about Landon and some pictures too. Thank you Aunt Merry!!
Josh took 2 days off work and we headed up to the panhandle so we could see her for more than just the weekend. So we were in the Panhandle from Friday through Wednesday.
We stayed with my parents and got to see them in the mornings. We spent most of the afternoons and evening over at the packed Williams house. It was great and a little sad. Josh and I, more than ever, wanted to live back "home"(second home I guess even though we both still call Ft Walton Beach and Niceville "home") so we can be closer to our families. We got to go to the beach with all the aunts and one uncle plus Grandma W. Josh and Landon went twice. Arabella and I came down with a little fever cold thing but thankfully it was short lived. On the way back to Gainesville we stopped to have dinner with my brother Adam. He took us to his favorite restaurant which I think has been our favorite so far too! I only wish we could see Uncle Adam more with or without the yummy food! ;)
It was a great vacation! Family is the best!!
Monday, August 22, 2011
Do you know about Pinterest? I am in LOVE!!! It lets you save websites and pictures. I already did this and Josh was not too happy about all the space on the computer I was taking up saving all my pictures ideas and things so that I could do things for homeschooling, home decorating, crafting and whatever. It is a very addiciting site for me and thankfully I can use it on my iTouch while I am nursing Arabella or need to waste some time waiting for an appointment because I might never leave the computer if I couldn't use it then. Here is my site. Now I am super happy and so is Josh.
http://pinterest.com/krystlew/
If you want an invite just send me an email. I LOVE it!!! Wait I think I said that all ready.
http://pinterest.com/krystlew/
If you want an invite just send me an email. I LOVE it!!! Wait I think I said that all ready.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Family fun in the Sun time: Our July
Here is a few of the happenings of our July.
Fourth of July was spent having fun with family and friends. We had a great morning as a family and then headed to the Durrenberger's after nap for dinner and fireworks. Julie and her kids also were there to join in the fun.
One Sunday after Sunday school, we headed out to the Ichetucknee Springs with Sally and the Fairrows. It was so funny. Arabella wasn't too fond of the 78 degree water, it did feel pretty cold that day. She and I hung out and watched everyone play in the water and to Arabella's delight there were some kids with balloon that we were able to watch. Landon hung out on Daddy's shoulders in the water most of the time. It was a no nap day for Landon but he did awesome!
We joined my MOPS group at the UF Museum of Natural History. The Peines were there too and we walked around the building with them after hanging out in the kids center.
Here are some pictures from the rest of the month. Mostly just having fun around the house. We took Landon and Arabella to see a little local play of Custard the Dragon, which is one of Landon's favorite books. It was okay but Landon loved getting to hug Custard (see below). Landon, Bella and I went on a nature walk/ treasure hunt and made a college (top right hand). Landon is getting to be a skilled toothbrusher. On night Josh walked into the bathroom to go brush his teeth and found Landon already doing so (second row on the right) Landon has been having fun with exploring his world with chalk drawings, spray bottles and Play-Doh (pictures various places below). Landon loves cars and trains and Arabella is normally trailing him as fast as she can (See below for train track made of books and a train station on a table )
I went to Chaysen and baby Emma's shower. Can't wait until we get to meet baby Emma, who should be here any day now.
Landon helped Daddy make Mommy a shelf for the bathroom. Josh later painted it black.
Arabella has found the fish tank and loves it. She will scoot over to it (now she crawls since she is crawling on all fours as of this past week!). She just stares at it for several minutes then pulls up on the ledge and bangs on the glass.
Trying to get to the pool as much as possible but this month it just didn't happen that much.
Arabella loves music and loves Landon's guitar from his Great Aunt Leah.
This was one of the strangest thing I have seen Reesie our cat do, which is saying a lot because she is a very strange cat. She loves Landon's car basket. Once he dumps the cars out she tends to hop in there and try to stay as long as possible. This day I couldn't even get her out so I decided she would surely get out if we just started filling up the basket. As you can see below I was very wrong. She didn't get out until EVERY car, truck and train was back in the basket and she still waited a few seconds/minutes to get out.
Fourth of July was spent having fun with family and friends. We had a great morning as a family and then headed to the Durrenberger's after nap for dinner and fireworks. Julie and her kids also were there to join in the fun.
One Sunday after Sunday school, we headed out to the Ichetucknee Springs with Sally and the Fairrows. It was so funny. Arabella wasn't too fond of the 78 degree water, it did feel pretty cold that day. She and I hung out and watched everyone play in the water and to Arabella's delight there were some kids with balloon that we were able to watch. Landon hung out on Daddy's shoulders in the water most of the time. It was a no nap day for Landon but he did awesome!
We joined my MOPS group at the UF Museum of Natural History. The Peines were there too and we walked around the building with them after hanging out in the kids center.
Here are some pictures from the rest of the month. Mostly just having fun around the house. We took Landon and Arabella to see a little local play of Custard the Dragon, which is one of Landon's favorite books. It was okay but Landon loved getting to hug Custard (see below). Landon, Bella and I went on a nature walk/ treasure hunt and made a college (top right hand). Landon is getting to be a skilled toothbrusher. On night Josh walked into the bathroom to go brush his teeth and found Landon already doing so (second row on the right) Landon has been having fun with exploring his world with chalk drawings, spray bottles and Play-Doh (pictures various places below). Landon loves cars and trains and Arabella is normally trailing him as fast as she can (See below for train track made of books and a train station on a table )
I went to Chaysen and baby Emma's shower. Can't wait until we get to meet baby Emma, who should be here any day now.
Arabella loves music and loves Landon's guitar from his Great Aunt Leah.
This was one of the strangest thing I have seen Reesie our cat do, which is saying a lot because she is a very strange cat. She loves Landon's car basket. Once he dumps the cars out she tends to hop in there and try to stay as long as possible. This day I couldn't even get her out so I decided she would surely get out if we just started filling up the basket. As you can see below I was very wrong. She didn't get out until EVERY car, truck and train was back in the basket and she still waited a few seconds/minutes to get out.
From God
I had to post this before I forgot. Josh just walked in the room where Landon was playing and scolded at him. Josh said 'Where did you learn to make that face?'. He was thinking he would say mommy or daddy.
Landon's response 'From God!' in a very firm voice.
He cracks me up!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Landon's response 'From God!' in a very firm voice.
He cracks me up!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Friday, August 19, 2011
Needed to share
This story came in my email box from MOPS, which is a group I am apart of for mothers of preschoolers. I feel like I need to be reminded of this often.
Learning to Cherish
by Moyra Jean Stiles, mother of three
Four months ago, my friend was diagnosed with aggressive stomach cancer. And my life has been irrevocably altered by the days I have spent with her during her illness. Days that confine her to her bed or a recliner all day, very heavily medicated for pain, physically unable to do daily tasks as she moves through the letting go of the work that was hers as a woman, a wife and a mother.
"I want to be the one to love
my family in these tangible ways"
In the hours when we sit together and pray, her heart desires remain very clear: “Please, Lord, please, let me be the one that gets to dress my girls. Please, Lord, O please, let my hands be able to once again prepare a meal for the man I love and the children I cherish. I, Lord, I want to be the one to love my family in these tangible ways.” Of all the things she’s lost in this season, this is what she mourns the loss of most: caring for the ones she loves with the energy and creativity of her unique and committed heart.
Oddly enough, those are the very tasks that most often garner grumbles from me. I, who have an abundant amount of health and energy, grow weary of endless meals to prep, laundry to fold and diapers to change. And yes, these tasks can be tiresome. But because of my friend’s beautiful spirit and grace, I’m discovering just how precious they are, just how much they mark me my husband’s wife, my children’s mother. And those are roles I never want to lose.
Dear God, thank you for my family. Show me how to love them through the big and the small, the exciting and the mundane. Remind me to cherish them always. Amen.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Learning to Cherish
by Moyra Jean Stiles, mother of three
Four months ago, my friend was diagnosed with aggressive stomach cancer. And my life has been irrevocably altered by the days I have spent with her during her illness. Days that confine her to her bed or a recliner all day, very heavily medicated for pain, physically unable to do daily tasks as she moves through the letting go of the work that was hers as a woman, a wife and a mother.
"I want to be the one to love
my family in these tangible ways"
In the hours when we sit together and pray, her heart desires remain very clear: “Please, Lord, please, let me be the one that gets to dress my girls. Please, Lord, O please, let my hands be able to once again prepare a meal for the man I love and the children I cherish. I, Lord, I want to be the one to love my family in these tangible ways.” Of all the things she’s lost in this season, this is what she mourns the loss of most: caring for the ones she loves with the energy and creativity of her unique and committed heart.
Oddly enough, those are the very tasks that most often garner grumbles from me. I, who have an abundant amount of health and energy, grow weary of endless meals to prep, laundry to fold and diapers to change. And yes, these tasks can be tiresome. But because of my friend’s beautiful spirit and grace, I’m discovering just how precious they are, just how much they mark me my husband’s wife, my children’s mother. And those are roles I never want to lose.
Dear God, thank you for my family. Show me how to love them through the big and the small, the exciting and the mundane. Remind me to cherish them always. Amen.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Childhood Doesn’t Wait
I read this and had to share.
Childhood Doesn’t Wait
(Author Unknown)
I was sitting on a bench
while in a nearby mall,
When I noticed a young mother
with two children who were small.
The youngest one was whining,
“Pick me up,” I heard him beg
but the mother’s face grew angry
as the child clung to her leg.
“Don’t hang on to me,” she shouted
as she pushed his hands away,
I wish I’d had the courage
to go up to her and say…
“The time will come too quickly
when those little arms that tug,
Won’t ask for you to hold them
or won’t freely give a hug.
“The day will sneak up subtly
just as it did with me,
When you can’t recall the last time
that your child sat on your knee.
“Like those sacred, pre-dawn feedings
when we cherished time alone
Our babies grow and leave behind
those special times we’ve known.
“So when your child comes to you
with a book that you can share,
Or asks that you would tuck him in
and help him say his prayer…
“When he comes to sit and chat
or would like to take a walk,
Before you answer that you can’t
`cause there’s no time to talk”
Remember what all parents learn
so many times too late,
That years go by too quickly
and that childhood doesn’t wait.
“Take every opportunity,
if one should slip away
Reach hard to get it back again,
don’t wait another day.”
I watched that mother walk away
her children followed near,
I hope she’ll pick them up
before her chances disappear.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Childhood Doesn’t Wait
(Author Unknown)
I was sitting on a bench
while in a nearby mall,
When I noticed a young mother
with two children who were small.
The youngest one was whining,
“Pick me up,” I heard him beg
but the mother’s face grew angry
as the child clung to her leg.
“Don’t hang on to me,” she shouted
as she pushed his hands away,
I wish I’d had the courage
to go up to her and say…
“The time will come too quickly
when those little arms that tug,
Won’t ask for you to hold them
or won’t freely give a hug.
“The day will sneak up subtly
just as it did with me,
When you can’t recall the last time
that your child sat on your knee.
“Like those sacred, pre-dawn feedings
when we cherished time alone
Our babies grow and leave behind
those special times we’ve known.
“So when your child comes to you
with a book that you can share,
Or asks that you would tuck him in
and help him say his prayer…
“When he comes to sit and chat
or would like to take a walk,
Before you answer that you can’t
`cause there’s no time to talk”
Remember what all parents learn
so many times too late,
That years go by too quickly
and that childhood doesn’t wait.
“Take every opportunity,
if one should slip away
Reach hard to get it back again,
don’t wait another day.”
I watched that mother walk away
her children followed near,
I hope she’ll pick them up
before her chances disappear.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Hurry! FREE Swiffer Duster for Vocalpoint Members
Wanted to let you in on a great deal. I have received a couple of other free "testers" from them.They also typically have coupons for you to buy the product too!
Hurry over and sign-up to get a FREE Swiffer Duster from Vocalpoint! You must be a member!
Hurry over and sign-up to get a FREE Swiffer Duster from Vocalpoint! You must be a member!
Monday, August 15, 2011
A thoughtful thought from my sweet boy
A friend of ours recently was killed in a motorcycle accident. I am good friends with his wife. Landon was friends with his 4 year old son. We had just spent a morning and lunch with them less than a week before this happened. Our family was saddened by this tragic event. We were telling Landon that his friend had lost his Daddy and won't be able to see him. His daddy had gone to Heaven to be with Jesus. Although his friend would be very sad, his daddy is in a very great place since he is with Jesus. Landon was so concerned for his friend. I was some what surprised with the emotion that he seemed to have for his friend. He has asked about how his friend is doing almost everyday since then. He also asks to pray for his friend every night at bed time prayers.
Landon: "Help (his friend's name) not be sad. His Daddy love him and he happy cause he with Jesus. Amen." It is really hard for me to not cry when I hear this. Although Josh did pray with us all the day it happened this was not something Josh and I told him to do or what to say. It was something he came up with on his own. I am truly blessed to have such a great example of Christ's heart sleeping in the bedroom next to mine.
Events such as losing a loved one before we think it is time always makes me think about remembering to live everyday to its fullest and to treasure all of our blessings each and every day. I have had several close friends and fmaily members die but this one has been truly hard for me. I know and saw the love a wife had for her husband and the love and admiration a son had for his father. This time I also have a son who reminds me of something very important. Only Jesus can heal these wounds and we need to always be seeking him not just in times like these. Also remember that death is not the end for those who walk with God, just a wonderful beginning to their live in the Kingdom of Heaven. Hope you take the time today to strengthen your walk with God and love on your loves a little extra.
Landon: "Help (his friend's name) not be sad. His Daddy love him and he happy cause he with Jesus. Amen." It is really hard for me to not cry when I hear this. Although Josh did pray with us all the day it happened this was not something Josh and I told him to do or what to say. It was something he came up with on his own. I am truly blessed to have such a great example of Christ's heart sleeping in the bedroom next to mine.
Events such as losing a loved one before we think it is time always makes me think about remembering to live everyday to its fullest and to treasure all of our blessings each and every day. I have had several close friends and fmaily members die but this one has been truly hard for me. I know and saw the love a wife had for her husband and the love and admiration a son had for his father. This time I also have a son who reminds me of something very important. Only Jesus can heal these wounds and we need to always be seeking him not just in times like these. Also remember that death is not the end for those who walk with God, just a wonderful beginning to their live in the Kingdom of Heaven. Hope you take the time today to strengthen your walk with God and love on your loves a little extra.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Landon
I still have more post to write about just trying to find the time to get them all written and get the pictures together. I wanted to give a little update on Landon since I have been posting so much about Arabella.
We are so proud of Landon. He is just becoming such a great little man. He makes me laugh and smile everyday!
A couple of months ago Landon figured out how to take off his shirt (undies and shorts have been more like 6-8 months ago which that time everything was kind of a blur with Arabella arriving and feeling awful).He just started being able to fully dress himself. He has been putting on his shoes for a long time, undies and shorts in the last 4-5 month. We never really tried getting him to put on his shirt (mainly because it only has to happen 2 times a day normally so it isn't something that is time consuming for me or hard with Arabella around). About 2.5 weeks ago he just took his shirt from me and put it on. I was shocked. He must have been thinking "Mom, I know how to do this just give me the shirt and I will show you." He loves showing off his new skill so now his shirt comes off a lot but he gets it back on and more often that not it is now correctly.
He comes up with the craziest stories. He has a great imagination. He really LOVES learning about Jesus and His life. He has such a heart for others.
Landon will also be starting preschool this coming week with me. I am so excited. Although we did some "school" last year it was very informal and without any real schedule. I have been spending that last few weeks preparing his curriculum (which I have thoroughly enjoyed). I am praying that all goes well but also prepared to deal with life as it comes. Hopefully by this time next week I will have an update on how our first week went. I know I am super excited!
I love our little man and can not believe that he will be 3 next month!
We are so proud of Landon. He is just becoming such a great little man. He makes me laugh and smile everyday!
A couple of months ago Landon figured out how to take off his shirt (undies and shorts have been more like 6-8 months ago which that time everything was kind of a blur with Arabella arriving and feeling awful).He just started being able to fully dress himself. He has been putting on his shoes for a long time, undies and shorts in the last 4-5 month. We never really tried getting him to put on his shirt (mainly because it only has to happen 2 times a day normally so it isn't something that is time consuming for me or hard with Arabella around). About 2.5 weeks ago he just took his shirt from me and put it on. I was shocked. He must have been thinking "Mom, I know how to do this just give me the shirt and I will show you." He loves showing off his new skill so now his shirt comes off a lot but he gets it back on and more often that not it is now correctly.
He comes up with the craziest stories. He has a great imagination. He really LOVES learning about Jesus and His life. He has such a heart for others.
Landon will also be starting preschool this coming week with me. I am so excited. Although we did some "school" last year it was very informal and without any real schedule. I have been spending that last few weeks preparing his curriculum (which I have thoroughly enjoyed). I am praying that all goes well but also prepared to deal with life as it comes. Hopefully by this time next week I will have an update on how our first week went. I know I am super excited!
I love our little man and can not believe that he will be 3 next month!
Arabella Pulling Up
I had intended on posting this in the previous post.
This is of the first time she was pulling up. This was last week.
Now she thinks she is an expert and is crusing around the fireplace and whatever else she can get her self up with. She likes the big wicker basket Landon's cars are in she she can push it. Plus she is letting on and standing for a second before falling. She really needs to slow down, I can't keep up with her! My friend Michelle keeps telling me that she is learning so fast to make room for the next one. That is not in our plans but God has certain shown Josh and I we should make plans because almost nothing in our lives is how we planned it. We are just holding on for the ride that our Lord is taking us on (it feels like a roller coaster ride most of the time!).
This is of the first time she was pulling up. This was last week.
Now she thinks she is an expert and is crusing around the fireplace and whatever else she can get her self up with. She likes the big wicker basket Landon's cars are in she she can push it. Plus she is letting on and standing for a second before falling. She really needs to slow down, I can't keep up with her! My friend Michelle keeps telling me that she is learning so fast to make room for the next one. That is not in our plans but God has certain shown Josh and I we should make plans because almost nothing in our lives is how we planned it. We are just holding on for the ride that our Lord is taking us on (it feels like a roller coaster ride most of the time!).
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Half a year... What?! My baby girl is 6 months!
Yes, I can't believe it. For whatever reason this is has been hard on me. I love my babies but I do enjoy toddler and older years more than the baby months. I just have a hard time thinking of her as something other than a little bundle of sweetness that needs to stay warm in my arms.
Biggest News...
A day short of Arabella turning 6 months is she started pulling up and STANDING UP! I wouldn't believe it unless I was sitting right there. Even more amazing is a caught it (or some of it) on video. Even better is Daddy was right there with us.
She is also sitting up for minutes at a time now. She can almost put herself in a sitting position. She is at a 60-70 degree angle and then she can't get up the rest of the way. As I said in an earlier post she is scooting around like crazy. If I put her in the living room, by the time I throw a load of clothes in the washer she is already can be in Landon's room. I am thankful that Landon is a huge joyful (at least most of the time) helper and watches her since she is known for putting anything she thinks is interesting in her mouth. She loves to bang things. She seems to prefer the colors red and yellow.
We have started feeding her. Man, does this girl like to eat! She actually yells at us almost every meal time if she isn't being feed which is part of the reason we started feeding her sooner that the 6 month mark. She would like to eat solid food at least 2 times a day. This is a night and day difference from Landon who basically refused food until he was 9-10 months old and he never would eat anything pureed. She also loves to drink water. She can already drink out of Landon's sippy cups and my sport water bottle lid but she typically gets a baby bottle of water.
We are also pretty sure she is saying "hi." Josh and I are both skeptical when it comes to speech just because sometimes it is easy to here what you want to hear. But we both thought she is saying hi. Either way she is making a specific noise that sounds almost like hi when she sees someone or someone says hi to her.
I had to take her to the doc. because of a diaper rash that won't go away, actually the ONLY diaper rash she has gotten ever. It turned out to be just a yeast infection which cleared up within a day or two after the ointment superscribed. She was 16.8lbs and 26inches.
Landon still is going a great job sharing his toys and always gets her one when he wants me to play. She goes to her when she is sad and when he is sad. I love that they comfort each other so well. I love being a sister and glad to see my children embracing the God's gift of siblings.
She is a super happy baby and such a personality. We all love her and can't imagine life without her now.
Biggest News...
A day short of Arabella turning 6 months is she started pulling up and STANDING UP! I wouldn't believe it unless I was sitting right there. Even more amazing is a caught it (or some of it) on video. Even better is Daddy was right there with us.
She is also sitting up for minutes at a time now. She can almost put herself in a sitting position. She is at a 60-70 degree angle and then she can't get up the rest of the way. As I said in an earlier post she is scooting around like crazy. If I put her in the living room, by the time I throw a load of clothes in the washer she is already can be in Landon's room. I am thankful that Landon is a huge joyful (at least most of the time) helper and watches her since she is known for putting anything she thinks is interesting in her mouth. She loves to bang things. She seems to prefer the colors red and yellow.
We have started feeding her. Man, does this girl like to eat! She actually yells at us almost every meal time if she isn't being feed which is part of the reason we started feeding her sooner that the 6 month mark. She would like to eat solid food at least 2 times a day. This is a night and day difference from Landon who basically refused food until he was 9-10 months old and he never would eat anything pureed. She also loves to drink water. She can already drink out of Landon's sippy cups and my sport water bottle lid but she typically gets a baby bottle of water.
We are also pretty sure she is saying "hi." Josh and I are both skeptical when it comes to speech just because sometimes it is easy to here what you want to hear. But we both thought she is saying hi. Either way she is making a specific noise that sounds almost like hi when she sees someone or someone says hi to her.
I had to take her to the doc. because of a diaper rash that won't go away, actually the ONLY diaper rash she has gotten ever. It turned out to be just a yeast infection which cleared up within a day or two after the ointment superscribed. She was 16.8lbs and 26inches.
Landon still is going a great job sharing his toys and always gets her one when he wants me to play. She goes to her when she is sad and when he is sad. I love that they comfort each other so well. I love being a sister and glad to see my children embracing the God's gift of siblings.
She is a super happy baby and such a personality. We all love her and can't imagine life without her now.
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| Our little smiley sunshine! |
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| Almost sitting |
 |
| Loves music |
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| First trip to the springs- Too cold for this little lady |
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| First bite of food |
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| First ride in the double stroller (despite Landon's look we all had fun) |
Monday, August 8, 2011
Arabella at 5 months old (July)
Well this has come and gone but I still wanted to write a little something.
Some first for Arabella...
-First cold (she just slept a lot and was a great little trooper)
-She loves to stand but June 22nd she took her first steps while holding mommy's hands
-Lunch and dinner out with friends (She did great such an easy baby!)
-June 28th started sitting up for a few seconds without any support
-July 4th First time seeing fireworks and first Independence Day (Again she did great, she was asleep on the walk over to the fire works but woke up and was happy as a lark)
Other News...
Still no teeth but she is teething!
ADORES her brother. He can make her smile no matter how she is feeling. I LOVE it!
She is such a Daddy's girl (and Daddy is eating it up!). As soon as she sees him she wants nothing to do with me. Landon was not like that, he loved his Daddy but he would typically want me.
Some first for Arabella...
-First cold (she just slept a lot and was a great little trooper)
-She loves to stand but June 22nd she took her first steps while holding mommy's hands
-Lunch and dinner out with friends (She did great such an easy baby!)
-June 28th started sitting up for a few seconds without any support
-July 4th First time seeing fireworks and first Independence Day (Again she did great, she was asleep on the walk over to the fire works but woke up and was happy as a lark)
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| My silly monkeys (I didn't even realize I matched them, Landon noticed it and said we needed a picture) |
Other News...
Still no teeth but she is teething!
ADORES her brother. He can make her smile no matter how she is feeling. I LOVE it!
She is such a Daddy's girl (and Daddy is eating it up!). As soon as she sees him she wants nothing to do with me. Landon was not like that, he loved his Daddy but he would typically want me.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Exersaucer fun
Arabella plays in the exersaucer when we are eating or I am making a meal but she almost always loves it.
Monsters
Landon: there are monsters that live all over some little ones live in the trees outside. Sometimes they come inside and give Arabella little hugs.Big hugs for Daddy and Landon not Arabella.
Mom: Arabella doesn't get big hugs?
L: No because she is a baby! Only little monsters live in the trees. Probably because God wanted them like that. God makes all the monsters live lots of places big and small monsters. God makes all the things around.
M: Laughing and giving L a big hug and telling him him he is cute.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Mom: Arabella doesn't get big hugs?
L: No because she is a baby! Only little monsters live in the trees. Probably because God wanted them like that. God makes all the monsters live lots of places big and small monsters. God makes all the things around.
M: Laughing and giving L a big hug and telling him him he is cute.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Thursday, July 7, 2011
We have a crawler!!
Going to try to catch on my blogging. Found this one I never published from July 17th.
Right now she is only army crawling. She can get where she wants to go even on the rug. She is isn't fast but she isn't slow.
Take a look this....
How long do you think it will be before she is crawling on fours!
Right now she is only army crawling. She can get where she wants to go even on the rug. She is isn't fast but she isn't slow.
Take a look this....
How long do you think it will be before she is crawling on fours!
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Our little tree frog
Landon balancing on Josh's back. One of his favorite places to hang out.
Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Beautiful Bella at 4 months old
I thought time went fast while Landon was a baby but have two children and care for another really makes time fly. We were visiting family when she turned 4 months.
Arabella is growing so fast. She is such a sweet happy baby!
She is rolling all over. She will roll to get where a toy is now. She can almost army crawl. She can already move an inch or two. She smiles all the time. She recognizes her name. It seems like she is always studying people. She ADORES her brother- no matter what is the matter if he looks at her and smiles she stops crying and puts on a HUGE smile. She plays with her hands and feet. She can grasp toys now and bring them to her mouth- which she does ALL the time. (Landon was never one for putting things in his mouth but she puts everything in her mouth!) She "talks" to Landon more than anyone else. Landon loved his Daddy but seem to cling to me a bit more but this little lady loves being with Daddy. I love it!
Typical day:
Naps: 3- two 30-45 mins at 10am and 11:45am and a 1-2 hour one at 1:30-2:30ish
Feeding: about every 2-3 hours in the day time. Night time varies to 1-2 feedings
Night time: Arabella isn't picky about lots of things but when it comes to bedtime she is. She wants to be nursing by 7:45- 8pm and is asleep by 8-8:30pm. She goes through many nights with a dry diaper. She wakes up at 7:30-8am normally. She has slept the whole time about 2-3 times. Typically she wakes up between 2-4am to nurse though.
Arabella is growing so fast. She is such a sweet happy baby!
She is rolling all over. She will roll to get where a toy is now. She can almost army crawl. She can already move an inch or two. She smiles all the time. She recognizes her name. It seems like she is always studying people. She ADORES her brother- no matter what is the matter if he looks at her and smiles she stops crying and puts on a HUGE smile. She plays with her hands and feet. She can grasp toys now and bring them to her mouth- which she does ALL the time. (Landon was never one for putting things in his mouth but she puts everything in her mouth!) She "talks" to Landon more than anyone else. Landon loved his Daddy but seem to cling to me a bit more but this little lady loves being with Daddy. I love it!
Typical day:
Naps: 3- two 30-45 mins at 10am and 11:45am and a 1-2 hour one at 1:30-2:30ish
Feeding: about every 2-3 hours in the day time. Night time varies to 1-2 feedings
Night time: Arabella isn't picky about lots of things but when it comes to bedtime she is. She wants to be nursing by 7:45- 8pm and is asleep by 8-8:30pm. She goes through many nights with a dry diaper. She wakes up at 7:30-8am normally. She has slept the whole time about 2-3 times. Typically she wakes up between 2-4am to nurse though.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Road trip
Landon, Arabella and I had our first road trip together. We went to visit the grandparents and friends in the panhandle. The kids and I headed out after attending the Newberry high school graduation. I think we hit the road right around 9 pm. Arabella slept pretty much the whole time. Landon stayed up and we talked for the first 45 mins or so. I love that we can have conversations now. We drove to Tallahassee where my brother lives. We stayed the night there. My brother and I stayed up until about 2:15 am talking. In the morning Adam went to McDonald's and got us all breakfast. Josh was working in Tallahassee for the weekend. We stopped by to see him before heading out.
I was counting on Arabella sleeping all or most of the time since in the mornings she typically takes two 45 min naps. I also thought Landon has been doing so well in the car entertaining himself with coloring and looking at books and I brought the iTouch as a back up he would do fine. Boy was I wrong. Landon got bored of the books and colors quickly. I gave him the iTouch only to realize 10 mons later I forget to charge it at my brother house. Landon was a little cranky. Arabella decided not to sleep more than 20 mins and pretty much cried the rest of the way. Did I also mention my AC was on the fritz!?
We arrived at my parents' house at lunch. We enjoyed a relaxing day with them.
Saturday we met up with Sabrina, one of my closest friends from high school. We spent the late morning and afternoon at the beach. Jamiie and Jeremiah met us there with lunch. Landon and Arabella had a blast! We took them both out in the waves. Arabella was such a trooper. I was so proud of my cute beach baby! Water, sand and friends meant Landon was in heaven. We spent the rest of the day at the Williams. Some how Landon never took a nap even though he laid down in a semi dark room for an hour! We had dinner and then after watch a movie put the kids to bed. Josh's dad and Jamiie babysat my sleeping angels so I could go out. I picked up Mark, friend and old roommate, and met Sabrina and her friends. Dan, another high school friend met us there too. It was really nice! My only regret was Josh wasn't there. :(.
Sunday we visited everyone at Niceville Christian church for Sunday services. It was great to see our friends who I hadn't seen in a while. Lunch was at our favorite Chinese, New Hong Kong. Sunday afternoon was filled with naps and Jamiie, Arabella and I running a couple of errands. Sunday evening with had dinner and Bible study at the Williams. It was nice to see some friends I hadn't seen in a little while and everyone was excited to meet Arabella.
Monday morning I headed back to my parents house. We hung out around the house. That evening was the Billy Bowleg's parade. I went several times as a child. It was fun taking Landon. Arabella was a trooper and hung out with Mommy and then Grandpa where she fell asleep. Landon got a couple pieces of candy and a lot of necklace. He also got a glow in the dark tomahawk. He was happy with is loot. ;)
The rest of the week we swam, went our to eat, played and relaxed with Grandpa and Grandma Gorman.
Friday I went back over to the Williams. Jamiie took us out to visit her horse. It was SO hot but I loved it. I haven't ridden a horse in a long time. I use to ride every week. I wasn't sure if I would remember how but it was like riding a bike- it all came back as soon as I got on. I was a little different than what I was use to. Although I know how to ride English I typically rode Western and Australian. Well I don't know how I looked riding but I felt like I was doing everything right and I didn't fall off!
Saturday I hung out with my parents, packed up, and went out to lunch. I left at nap time and prayed that both kids would sleep most of the way and be happy if they woke up. My prayers were answered. Arabella and Landon slept the whole 2 hour drive to Adam in Tallahassee! They only woke up because I stopped the car in his drive way. We went out to dinner at a yummy Asian place that has authentic food from all of the different Asian countries. We played outside for a little bit in a nice grasses area near the restaurant and then Adam treated us for ice cream. We left for Gainesville after dropping Adam off. The kids slept the whole way and I got in around 12:45am..We had a terrific trip!
I was counting on Arabella sleeping all or most of the time since in the mornings she typically takes two 45 min naps. I also thought Landon has been doing so well in the car entertaining himself with coloring and looking at books and I brought the iTouch as a back up he would do fine. Boy was I wrong. Landon got bored of the books and colors quickly. I gave him the iTouch only to realize 10 mons later I forget to charge it at my brother house. Landon was a little cranky. Arabella decided not to sleep more than 20 mins and pretty much cried the rest of the way. Did I also mention my AC was on the fritz!?
We arrived at my parents' house at lunch. We enjoyed a relaxing day with them.
Saturday we met up with Sabrina, one of my closest friends from high school. We spent the late morning and afternoon at the beach. Jamiie and Jeremiah met us there with lunch. Landon and Arabella had a blast! We took them both out in the waves. Arabella was such a trooper. I was so proud of my cute beach baby! Water, sand and friends meant Landon was in heaven. We spent the rest of the day at the Williams. Some how Landon never took a nap even though he laid down in a semi dark room for an hour! We had dinner and then after watch a movie put the kids to bed. Josh's dad and Jamiie babysat my sleeping angels so I could go out. I picked up Mark, friend and old roommate, and met Sabrina and her friends. Dan, another high school friend met us there too. It was really nice! My only regret was Josh wasn't there. :(.
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| Beach Day Fun (double click all picture to enlarge) |
Sunday we visited everyone at Niceville Christian church for Sunday services. It was great to see our friends who I hadn't seen in a while. Lunch was at our favorite Chinese, New Hong Kong. Sunday afternoon was filled with naps and Jamiie, Arabella and I running a couple of errands. Sunday evening with had dinner and Bible study at the Williams. It was nice to see some friends I hadn't seen in a little while and everyone was excited to meet Arabella.
Monday morning I headed back to my parents house. We hung out around the house. That evening was the Billy Bowleg's parade. I went several times as a child. It was fun taking Landon. Arabella was a trooper and hung out with Mommy and then Grandpa where she fell asleep. Landon got a couple pieces of candy and a lot of necklace. He also got a glow in the dark tomahawk. He was happy with is loot. ;)
The rest of the week we swam, went our to eat, played and relaxed with Grandpa and Grandma Gorman.
Friday I went back over to the Williams. Jamiie took us out to visit her horse. It was SO hot but I loved it. I haven't ridden a horse in a long time. I use to ride every week. I wasn't sure if I would remember how but it was like riding a bike- it all came back as soon as I got on. I was a little different than what I was use to. Although I know how to ride English I typically rode Western and Australian. Well I don't know how I looked riding but I felt like I was doing everything right and I didn't fall off!
Saturday I hung out with my parents, packed up, and went out to lunch. I left at nap time and prayed that both kids would sleep most of the way and be happy if they woke up. My prayers were answered. Arabella and Landon slept the whole 2 hour drive to Adam in Tallahassee! They only woke up because I stopped the car in his drive way. We went out to dinner at a yummy Asian place that has authentic food from all of the different Asian countries. We played outside for a little bit in a nice grasses area near the restaurant and then Adam treated us for ice cream. We left for Gainesville after dropping Adam off. The kids slept the whole way and I got in around 12:45am..We had a terrific trip!
Monday, May 30, 2011
Landon, swimming, and balance
The last few weeks we have been trying to go to the pool at least once a week. We have been bring dinner at the pool and then swimming for an hour or two. Arabella and Landon love it! Landon is getting great at swimming and going under water. He can hold his breath, swim on his back and float. He like swimming with his floaties the best I think because of the independence it gives him. He also loves jumping in the water. The last 2-3 times we have been at the pool Landon has been saying something and we weren't quite sure what it is because he says it so fast and jumps as he is saying it. Last night we figured it out and tonight we confirmed it. We have no idea where he got this from.
He gets up on the side of the pool, "Mommy, Daddy, Arabella watch me! Wait so I can do my balance."
I have no idea why he says that but it cracks us up. We asked him what he thought "balance" was and he said it is in is tummy for him to jump. Whatever it means we have reinforced him saying it because of us laughing.
Silly boy!
He gets up on the side of the pool, "Mommy, Daddy, Arabella watch me! Wait so I can do my balance."
I have no idea why he says that but it cracks us up. We asked him what he thought "balance" was and he said it is in is tummy for him to jump. Whatever it means we have reinforced him saying it because of us laughing.
Silly boy!
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Friday, May 20, 2011
Mary and Jesus
You may not know this but I have a very sweet honest resource that told me this is how "Mary took Jesus to Nazareth"
You can make the choice to believe it or not. ;)
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Makes my heart melt
The other day I wasn't feeling well because of a migraine. Landon was asking me to play with him and I told him as long as he was quiet I would because my head hurt.
L: Mommy, you not feel good?
M:Yes my head hurts.
L:I give it a kiss and hug, so it feel better. (He kissed my forehead and gave me a big hug)
M:Thank you that will make it feel better.
L:God made me for you so you will always feel better. So I can make you happy, and Daddy and Arabella happy
M:I love you Landon and you are made for me! (That made me feel even better than the sweet kiss to my forehead!)
So true!
L: Mommy, you not feel good?
M:Yes my head hurts.
L:I give it a kiss and hug, so it feel better. (He kissed my forehead and gave me a big hug)
M:Thank you that will make it feel better.
L:God made me for you so you will always feel better. So I can make you happy, and Daddy and Arabella happy
M:I love you Landon and you are made for me! (That made me feel even better than the sweet kiss to my forehead!)
So true!
Happy Mother's Day
Landon made me a card, picture and little flower pot in during his church classes. I love that he his old enough to make something and kind of get why he is making it. He was so proud to give them to me. Brandi and Bryan were his teachers during church hour. The is where he drew the picture and made the card for me. Although my picture may look like may other mom's pictures from their 2 year old Landon's had a cute story with it so Brandi was sweet enough to write down what he was was saying he was drawing. "Landon's Mommy. Mommy is a helicopter. She has wings and a red lights so she can see down. She has yellow hair. She is an angel." I love my little creative boy.
After church services we had a yummy lunch with the Strode's at BJ's.
I had more of a Mother's day week with little surprises through out the week. A few of the surprises were... ...Josh had a day off but didn't tell me so he let me sleep in and let me have a morning to myself
...Another day that week, when Josh came home from work he told me to sit on the couch and relax. He then came out with a little tub filled with warm water and soaking salts (I had been dealing with aching feet most of the week).
It was a wonderful Mother's day (week) and I thank my God everyday that I get to be a mother and wife to a wonderful family!
After church services we had a yummy lunch with the Strode's at BJ's.
I had more of a Mother's day week with little surprises through out the week. A few of the surprises were... ...Josh had a day off but didn't tell me so he let me sleep in and let me have a morning to myself
...Another day that week, when Josh came home from work he told me to sit on the couch and relax. He then came out with a little tub filled with warm water and soaking salts (I had been dealing with aching feet most of the week).
It was a wonderful Mother's day (week) and I thank my God everyday that I get to be a mother and wife to a wonderful family!
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| My Sweet Baby Boy, Landon |
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| My Sweet Baby Girl, Arabella |
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
The Commedia Tales of King Arthur
Awesome play just a little too hot to be perfect.
We went to the Commedia Tales of King Arthur. The group does a free play for children every year and it is held outdoors at the Thomas Center. They did a great job and we were all entertained. There was shade but we got there just a little too late to find a good shady spot. So if you ever go, get there at least 15 min early on Saturday. :)
We are looking forward to going to their play next year.
We went to the Commedia Tales of King Arthur. The group does a free play for children every year and it is held outdoors at the Thomas Center. They did a great job and we were all entertained. There was shade but we got there just a little too late to find a good shady spot. So if you ever go, get there at least 15 min early on Saturday. :)
We are looking forward to going to their play next year.
Arabella is 3 months!
My little lady is 3 months old a week and a half ago on Saturday. Boy, has time flown! Boy do we love Arabella! She is such a sweet content little girl. I am so thankful for a easy little baby girl. She sleeps and eats well and only really cries when she has gas bubbles in her tummy. It is a very different experience compared to when Landon was a little guy. He needed lots of mommy time!
Arabella loves to watch Landon and Zach play. She doesn't really care for being on her back, which is why I think she has learned roll over both ways. If Landon is playing in front of her she will roll to her belly (or fuss until I put her on her tummy) and then grabs at cars. Landon has been good at making sure he only gives her the big soft cars instead of the Hot Wheel cars with the tiny wheels. Arabella gets really excited when I sit down with her and let her help play with the toys. She will some times hold the Little People that Landon gives her.
She is nursing about every 2-3 hours during the day. She is starting to have more consistent nap times. Her best napping time is in the afternoon and this past week it has been at the same time has Landon's nap. She typically goes down at night about 8:30-9 and wakes up at about 8-8:30. She wakes up once or twice at night. She doesn't like her diaper being changed at night most of the time. I guess it is good that she does wet much at night. If it is the day time, she LOVES her diaper being changed. She smiles during it most of the time.
It is a challenge and a true joy to be a mother of two wonderful children!
Arabella loves to watch Landon and Zach play. She doesn't really care for being on her back, which is why I think she has learned roll over both ways. If Landon is playing in front of her she will roll to her belly (or fuss until I put her on her tummy) and then grabs at cars. Landon has been good at making sure he only gives her the big soft cars instead of the Hot Wheel cars with the tiny wheels. Arabella gets really excited when I sit down with her and let her help play with the toys. She will some times hold the Little People that Landon gives her.
She is nursing about every 2-3 hours during the day. She is starting to have more consistent nap times. Her best napping time is in the afternoon and this past week it has been at the same time has Landon's nap. She typically goes down at night about 8:30-9 and wakes up at about 8-8:30. She wakes up once or twice at night. She doesn't like her diaper being changed at night most of the time. I guess it is good that she does wet much at night. If it is the day time, she LOVES her diaper being changed. She smiles during it most of the time.
It is a challenge and a true joy to be a mother of two wonderful children!
Monday, May 9, 2011
Beach day!
This past weekend we had planned on joining to visit our families in the panhandle but Arabella and I came down with a cold. So we decided to stay at home. Even though my energy level was shot and I was glad Josh and I decided to stay home I was bummed out. Josh suggested if I felt better we should do something fun on Sunday. Although us girls were still a little under the weather I decided we should go to the beach. So we packed up and headed to Crescent Beach.
Arabella didn't enjoy her first beach trip as much as we would have liked. It is always super windy when we have gone to Crescent Beach and both Arabella and I were still a little stuffy from our colds. Landon had lots of fun in the waves with Daddy and building in the sand with Mommy.
It was a good substitute to not going to visit family for the weekend.
Arabella didn't enjoy her first beach trip as much as we would have liked. It is always super windy when we have gone to Crescent Beach and both Arabella and I were still a little stuffy from our colds. Landon had lots of fun in the waves with Daddy and building in the sand with Mommy.
It was a good substitute to not going to visit family for the weekend.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Look at what our little girl can do!
Daddy caught this on his phone (which is why is it is such poor quality)
That right she can roll both ways now!
Friday, May 6, 2011
Hungry?
While I was showering, Daddy was reading books to Landon and Arabella. Arabella started to whimper a little. Landon gave her a hug. While Landon was hugging her Arabella grabbed a hold of Landon's arm and started sucking on it. Landon's conversation with Josh went like this...
L: Giggle. That tickles Arabella. Why she doing that?
D: She wants mommy. She is hungry.
L: Hungry for people?!?
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
L: Giggle. That tickles Arabella. Why she doing that?
D: She wants mommy. She is hungry.
L: Hungry for people?!?
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Mommies
I was sitting in Landon's reading to him and nursing Arabella yesterday.
L: Arabella having mommy milk because she hungery?
M: yes
L: when I have another mommy, she will feed my baby.
M: another mommy?
L: yes! When I get big I will get another mommy and she feeds my babies like you fed Arabella.
M: oh, you mean when you get married your wife will be a mommy who gives your babies mommy milk?
L: yes! That what me say, mommy!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
L: Arabella having mommy milk because she hungery?
M: yes
L: when I have another mommy, she will feed my baby.
M: another mommy?
L: yes! When I get big I will get another mommy and she feeds my babies like you fed Arabella.
M: oh, you mean when you get married your wife will be a mommy who gives your babies mommy milk?
L: yes! That what me say, mommy!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Easter Fun
What a great day! Easter/ Resurrection Sunday whatever you want to call it- we celebrate because our loving Savior rose from the grave! What a wonderful reason to spend time with love ones.
The weekend before Easter Landon, Arabella and I were able to join several of our friends at Mrs. Jean's house for a pot luck lunch and egg hunt. Josh and his brother Jeremiah were helping our friends Chris and Jason lay sod.
After some naps for me and the kids, we joined Josh at Harvest for the Thai dinner fundraiser. The money raiser is going towards Sally's month long mission trip to Thailand. You can keep up with all her adventures here. Josh made all the food except for dessert. I think he has gotten the authentic Thai taste down. The first bite brought me back to a special place in my heart- North Burma Cristian's Chaing Mai Children's Hostel. I think everyone who cane enjoyed themselves and many people (who came and didn't come) blessed Sally with supporting her mission trip.
Easter weekend we had our Friday dinner and Bible study which as always was lots of fun. We really enjoy spending time, fellowshipping and studying God's Word with our friends.
Saturday morning Landon got to check out his Easter basket of goodies. Later, we decided to enjoy the warm weather and head over to the pool with Sally.
Sunday we enjoyed a yummy breakfast and sermon at Harvest. The Peines traded us for family photos. Yay for a nice family of four picture!
Sunday evening we spent at Chris and Jason's as a Easter dinner/ final goodbye dinner. (Forgot to take pictures)
The weekend before Easter Landon, Arabella and I were able to join several of our friends at Mrs. Jean's house for a pot luck lunch and egg hunt. Josh and his brother Jeremiah were helping our friends Chris and Jason lay sod.
After some naps for me and the kids, we joined Josh at Harvest for the Thai dinner fundraiser. The money raiser is going towards Sally's month long mission trip to Thailand. You can keep up with all her adventures here. Josh made all the food except for dessert. I think he has gotten the authentic Thai taste down. The first bite brought me back to a special place in my heart- North Burma Cristian's Chaing Mai Children's Hostel. I think everyone who cane enjoyed themselves and many people (who came and didn't come) blessed Sally with supporting her mission trip.Easter weekend we had our Friday dinner and Bible study which as always was lots of fun. We really enjoy spending time, fellowshipping and studying God's Word with our friends.
Saturday morning Landon got to check out his Easter basket of goodies. Later, we decided to enjoy the warm weather and head over to the pool with Sally.
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| Landon with his completed Sponge Bob puzzle |
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| Sally and Landon (picture courtesy of Sally's new underwater case!) | My little man is so good at holding his breathe! |
Sunday we enjoyed a yummy breakfast and sermon at Harvest. The Peines traded us for family photos. Yay for a nice family of four picture!
Sunday evening we spent at Chris and Jason's as a Easter dinner/ final goodbye dinner. (Forgot to take pictures)
To share a little about me and my weaknesses...
This is my Easter candy weakness. I am not one to chow down on candy but this is the exception. I am not going to tell you how many bags I consumed this holiday season. ;p Lets just say it is a good thing for my figure that these are not sold year round!
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