My favorite quotes from this weekend:

1) As we went through a McDonald's drive thru this weekend, I asked for two kiddie cones (in a dish).
Later, as we're driving away, Myles says, "Can I have some of that kiddie cat ice cream you got"?


2) Today as we were heading to church he says out of the blue "Do you think Mrs Stewart misses me?" I assured him she did. He says "I thought so. I thinks she misses me so much. It's been so many days since I've seen her".

3) And finally, as we're picking up Gina from the nursery, a care taker has the following conversation with Myles:
Her: Who are you here to pick up?
Myles: GINA!!!!!!!1
Her: Oh, is Gina you're baby?
M: No (laughing)
Her: Oh...then who's baby is it??
M: (Giving her a dumb look) Points to me.
Her: But she's your baby sister, right?
M: No. She just spits at me.
Her: (lauging) How old are you??
M: 4
Her: Well, how hold is Gina?
M: 25. (I have no idea where that came from).
Her: (Still laughing) What's your name, sweetie?
M: I've already told you, lady!! Were you not listening??

Where does he get this stuff??

Just saying hi

As it's been a long time since I posted. It's probably a good thing that it doesn't feel like there's been much going on to post about.
I can't believe it's July 1st already! We really need to figure out our fourth of july plans!!
It'll be interesting to see what Myles thinks of the fireworks...we may have to get him some ear plugs.
He rode a bike for the first time yesterday. One of the neighbor boys that is 5 had one with training wheels and let Myles try. He was a natural. He also played on his scooter and did so well. I love that he takes to all of that so fast. Clearly that comes from Derrick's genes and not mine.
We also saw Horton Hears a Who this weekend. He had a great time and really enjoyed it. It's one of the first movies he actually stayed still for and watched the entire thing.
The job hunt is still going slow, but we're both staying positive. It's a tough market right now, and there are a lot of people out of work. It's taking longer on average for people to find a new job than it ever has.
We've been blessed with relatively cool weather, thank goodness. It hasn't been bad in the house at all.
Anyway, I'm off to bed. I've been exhausted lately and need to get some sleep.
Hope you're all having a good night!

So hard to make, so easy to spend

Money that is.
Today we needed to get four new tires on the Acura, along with a headlight, tail light, alignment and oil change. We had put it off as long as possible, and it just wasn't safe anymore. Goodness gracious. It's amazing how you can spend so much in just a few minutes!!!
And I'm becoming real farmiliar with what a condensor is. Something I didn't know about just a few weeks ago. It's what is wrong with our home A/C and what they think is wrong with the Acura's A/C. They (Sears) tried to charge it twice and it just wouldn't work. But they can't do that fix there, so we need to bring it somewhere else. I am definitely learning patience though...something that I was not blessed with having much of. Patience and an adaptation for dealing wtih the heat. lol

Tomorrow we really need to go to church. We didn't go the past three weeks because of different conflicts and I'm missing it.

Gina learned a new word tonight. I told her it was time to go night night and she said it back to me. "night night". It was really sweet. She melts my heart.

Today is one of those days that I feel like I was busy all day, but didn't really accomplish anything. I have yet to get a shower even. It's just been a long day.
I am off to get cleaned up and relax!!!!

Hope you are all having a good night!!

Ally

10 years and our wildlife adventures.

Wow. 10 years. It's hard to believe that ten years ago today Derrick and I were married. It doesn't seem possible. 10 years and 2 beautiful children later, here we are.
We haven't done anything "official" to celebrate yet, but plan on going out next weekend for a nice dinner alone, and when mom comes in town in mid-July, we plan on doing a combo anniversary/birthday celebration and spending the night away while G-ma watches the kids. It'll be our first ever night away!

On a completely different note, we had quite the "incident" tonight. We recently confirmed the fact that some racoons have decided to make our home their home. I was going to go out to the car last night to get something out of it and saw a furry little critter by our gutter. I swear he waved to me. I'm so glad I was inside and saw him through the door. I stood there staring at him in a state of scared shock.

Today, about 6:00, I opened the front door to go out with the kids and there, right on our porch, right by the front door was another one. Myles now has a funny story to tell about his mommy literally screaming and then yelling at him to shut the door and get in the house. He got quite a kick out of that and has re-enacted it several times. I now know where Gina got her "squeal" from. And aren't these stupid things NOCTURNAL animals?? Last time I checked 6 pm during daylight savings time does NOT qualify. I'm telling you, it's messing with me.
Meanwhile, I about fainted in the folyer. Everyone says they are more scared of me than I am of it, but I believe that would be impossible. And I don't care what anyone says, that thing was NOT scared of us. It just stood there, probably saying "whatcha gonna do about it"? That's when a hunting dog comes in handy. I will no longer go anywhere without Max. Raccoons may not be scared of me, but they ARE scared of him. If anyone ever finds me passed out somewhere around the house, you can be pretty sure I saw a raccoon. I'm not so sure that thing wouldn't chase me down the block even if I took off running. More scared of me than I am of it. I don't think so.

I swear I can't get out of this house fast enough. I have not yet figured out how to have Max help me INTO the house when I'm coming home from somewhere. I'll have to give that one some thought. For now, I'm just grateful that I haven't carried out my plans of downsizing the number of pets we have as I've often threatened. But I will say, that if one of those things ever comes out and fights with him (and they might...they're probably just lifting weights during the day to build up their strength) the dog is on his own. I'll do what I can do from the safety and secruity the INSIDE of the house provides. However, if one ever finds it's way into the house I will surely die of fear, and it'll make for quite the interesting obituary.

I now feel like I need to go wash my hands or take a shower or something. Does anyone else feel like they are being watched??? *shudder*

A beautiful day!!!

We had a great day here today weather wise! It was just perfect!
The day was a little frustrating overall--their was some kind of mix up with the A/C man and he left before Derrick could get the dogs put away and answer the door. The real estate agent didn't show up for his 6:00 appt., and I just got the answering machine when I called. Graeater's is now asking Derrick to "wait 30 days" as they were "premature in interviewing for the position" (since it doesn't exist yet...ya think??!!), but still say "he's the one". It just felt soo close.
BUT....I'm trying to put the princpal's I'm reading about in our book club books to good use.
1. Being happy is a DECISION. You have to choose to be happy and know that things will work out for the greater good even when things seem to be going poorly.
2. Things will work out, but it'll be in GOD'S TIME, not mine. Until then, I need to be willing to turn it over to him and let it go.

So, today it really hit me that our 10th!!!! Anniversary is this Friday. We have no plans. We are such slackers and procrastinators. We would like to get away for a night when mom comes in town in July, but we'd still like to do something now. We really need to get serious and figure out what we're gonna do. We should at least see if Cindy can watch the kids that night and plan something to do that evening.

And mom, I have a surprise for your birthday, and it's killing me not to tell you about it. I'm no good with surprises. Although I found out today I'm not going to have it by the 28th, but I think it'll be worth the wait!!

Well, it's cool and very comfortable in the house, both kids are sleeping, and I'm ready to take full advantage of it.

Hope you all have a good night!

Counting our blessings!

Derrick did go to St. Louis this weekend. His mom was released from the hospital yesterday, thank God. I have no doubt all the prayers she was receiving helped!
Although it was not a good reason for the get together, it was a great for him to be able to get together with his family and friends.
He checked in with me this morning and told me he'd probably be staying one more night and coming home tomorrow. I tried to be very understanding and supportive, but was disappointed (and tired...HOW do single moms do it??). So imagine my surprise when he walked in around noon! He left very early this morning to come back home. Sorry Greg...he told me you all were still sleeping when he left...he had a great time with you!
His brothers challenged him to a game of basketball, but Derrick wasn't prepared..didn't have gym shoes. So, in true boy ultra competitive form, Greg bought him a pair of shoes. Now Myles is dying for a pair that look just like them. I was down stairs doing laundry when I heard Myles scream DAAAAAAAADDDDDYYYYYYYY!!!! It was really cute.

The kids and I went to the pool this afternoon and had a great time. Myles is so much more brave than he was last year and even hung out in the big pool! Gina also brought out the dare devil side of her and started jumping off the side to me.
Now we're back home and are making a red velvet cake for Father's Day. Although we had to warn him that this one will be VERY light icing. Woops. lol

The guy that was working on our air conditioner called me today and said he could come out tomorrow to put that used unit in for us. Yay!!! And, on top of that, after tomorrow the rest of the week is supposed to be in the 70's!!

There's just something about swimming that makes us all tired. Gina is taking a nap and we're just all relaxing having cooled off and waiting for the cake to finish!! Yum.

Derrick's mom

For those of you that don't know, please keep her in your prayers tonight. She suffered a heart attack today.

For those of you that do know, your prayers are already working!!! God hears us!

Derrick was getting ready to get in the car and start driving, but as we've gotten more news from the family that's with her in St. Louis, he has decided to wait until morning. She had a 99% blockage in one of her arteries, but it sounds as though they have been able to open that and she is being transferred to a different hospital. His brother Will tells us they are even saying she may be released early next week!!! Praise God!

So at this point, he's considering waiting a week to go be with her when he can actually spend some quality time with her AT HOME when she may really be desiring company vs rushing to be with her tomorrow in the hospital. We'll see. He'll call Will in the morning to get an update on her at that point and then decide for sure what he needs to do.

So prayers for Annette for healing, and for her entire family for strength and peace.

Give your loved ones an extra squeeze tonight and make sure you know how much you love them. Times like this instantly make you think about all the things you should have done or said when you realize you may have missed your opportunity.

To all of those reading this, I LOVE YOU!!

Derrick and Ally

Sprinkler Fun

Tonight we came home and I turned on the sprinkler and let the kids run through it. Well, Myles ran through it, but Gina didn't seem to excited about the opportunity to run through ice cold water. What can I say? The girl may be young, but she isn't crazy. :) I'll post some pictures in the next few days.
But it has cooled off quite a bit here (down to the mid 80's) so it was nice to spend some time outside and just enjoy letting the kids be kids.
I stayed up too late last night as I just couldn't relax enough to go to sleep, and now I'm really tired. Gina is in her crib, and I think I'm going to do my best to get Myles down to sleep early tonight so I can have some time alone.
I'm craving some peace and quiet!!!
Hope you are all having a good night!

Just a quick update...

As it's late and I'm tired...but hot.
Still no A/C. It's totally broken, and with the current state of things just not worth wfixing. Sooo....we're making due. Using fans, chilling in the basement, using the Y pool, etc. But it's definitely something that won't be taken for granted in the future.
We had the real estate agent come out today. So far it doesn't look like selling the house is going to be a feasible option. So....we're exploring other options. We just need to gather all the information we can from reliable sources and pray so that we make the best decisions we can.
Derrick had another interview with Graeter's today. It went really well, but also kind of odd. He's interivewing for a Regional Manager position and they love him....say he's The One. Only problem? The position doesn't actually exist yet. They are hiring a consulting firm to do a financial analysis and recommend how how the company should be restructured since it's been set up the same way since it first opened...and managers are reporting directly to the owners.
So, we'll see. Hopefully things will fall into place if it's meant to be. I'm not so sure why they have an internal recruiter looking to fill a position that doesn't exist, but who am I? At least they were really impressed with him. In the mean time he's still just following up on other leads and staying in touch with all of his contacts.
We looked at one townhouse community this weekend (Mallard Lakes) and really liked it, but are not ready to make a decision yet until some other things are resolved. In the mean time we'll just keep looking so we can get into the best place for us as soon as we're ready. Regardless I'm excited about the fresh start.
We went to the pool at the Y today and the kids had a blast. I wish I had my camera.
We came home and made dinner and then played outside. You know it's bad when it's probably about 15 degrees cooler outside than it is in your own house. lol I would have gone out earlier had I known that!!
When we came in Myles wanted to get a shower...and Gina joined him. It was hysterical. She's always standing up in the bathtub though, so it actually worked. She loved it. That was truly a Kodak moment.
Gina is now saying "woof woof" when you ask her what a dog says. It cracks me up, so I ask her constantly. It's just so funny the way she says it. She also calls Cindy "inny" and is putting two words together (mommy here, daddy up, etc). So it's fun to see her growing and learning.
Well, I'm in a room with no fan and I'm starting to drip onto the keyboard...that's a sign I need to go.
Hope you're all having a good night.
Talk to you soon.

Another test??

I thought I was out of school! Yet...somehow it seems like we keep getting the tests that are just a part of life thrown at us.
We had two people come out today to take a look at our air conditioner. Both think the unit needs to be replaced. Really?! Now?! When we're trying to get out of here? I really wish it had just waited a few more months!
We have one more person coming on Friday to take another look, and from talking to him on the phone, I have confidence in him and he feels like he'll be able to fix it.
I don't like to think of myself as being a "prissy" girl, but I sure am spoiled when it comes to A/C. It's funny how a convenience quickly becomes an expectation.
The good part is that some of the topics in WWG have been popping in my mind and helping to keep things in perspective. I know that we have just been working too hard to not have things fall into place. I just can't let this set back distract me. I know it will all work out the way it's supposed to.
Kim, it's a good thing you're in HH...had you been home today would have been a day I would have been calling for a "Kim talk". You have such a knack of putting things in perspective for me.
I finally got Myles to fall asleep early tonight. Boy did he need it. Do you know where he fell asleep? On top of the coffee table, complete with a blanket and pillow. Hey...whatever works.
We had our first donation pick up today and are scheduled for another one tomorrow. I just finished bringing up some more stuff from downstairs, and then got a shower to freshen up. I never realized how big the basement is. :) Every bit we do motivates me to do even more as it keeps coming together.
Now we just need a collective prayer and the whole group to cross their fingers that the house can sell quickly and without major issues. I have to admit, I'm proud of myself for facing my fears head on. I've always had SO much anxiety about selling the house...not really related to leaving it, just all the work it would take to get it ready, have open houses and showings, etc. But I'm doing it! I know it will all pay off. I just have to stay positive.

Hey everyone!

It's funny how it sometimes seems like there is nothing going on, yet so much at the same time. Do you know what I mean? Maybe it's because what's "going on" isn't particulary fun or exciting, but it just keeps us busy.
We have 2 donation picks ups scheduled for the next two days. I'm looking forward to getting our garage back.
We have a real estate agent coming by this Monday. Kim, we called Larry Bebe and mentioned I got his name from you all. He was really nice and remembered you well. (I guess a bazillion moves will do that to a person) lol So, I'm looking forward to meeting with him and hearing what he has to say and getting this process started.
Greg, if it doesn't sell soon, we may be out for an extended visit in Arizona. :)
It's funny how the house looks so different with a few minor changes, and how clean it is now. It's a little sad to be leaving...heck, this is the only HOUSE I've ever lived in...but I know it's time. The biggest decisions in life aren't always the easiest to make, but having faith in God and knowing he'll lead us down the right path if we just listen for him helps.
Things seem to be slowing down a little for Derrick on the job hunt. He's still had sesveral interviews, but it just doens't seem like he's getting as many calls these days as he was at one point. So, we're trying to regroup and refocus.
Kim-I'm not perfect about my quiet time, but I have been doing a pretty darn good job. The weekends is when I tend to slack. During the week it's much easier for me to focus. Although I really need to get serious about WWG if I'm going to finish it. I really like it, and the story about his dog passing literally had me crying...are you to that point yet? I had to put it down and come back. The part when God said "He won't give me the ball". Please. Sob City.
Myles is having a really rough night tonight. He hasn't been this way in quite a while. I think it's because he went to bed last night. Ocassionally he just has nights where he just can't get to sleep...and we all pay for it the next day. So today he has no patience and everything is making him angry. But, I have little Gina in bed, so I'm going to go spend a little one-on-one time with him before I force his little self to fall asleep.
Hope you all have a good night.
Oh..and mom...the A/C people are coming tomorrow as well, so we'll finally cool down. :)

Whew, what a week

Well, we've got a lot done this week. We have two donation pick up's scheduled for later in the week to start picking up the baby clothes, toys, old furniture, etc. We've gotten rid of lots of trash, and we're really making progress. I've gone through all of our closets and the kitchen cabinets. This is definitely some serious spring cleaning!!!
I spent most of my evenings last week carrying things up from the basement and out to the garage, hence my absence. I'm glad that phase of it is over.
Derrick and I tried to carry up an old desk from the basement last night and about killed ourselves in the process. In hind sight, it was probably good material for America's Funniest Home videos, but at the time, I thought for sure one of us was gonna be laying on the ground being crushed by a heavy desk!! And the sad part is, we didn't even accomplish our mission. There was no way I was gonna be able to lift that thing all the way up.
Today we're both sore and bruised up from that little fiasco along with all the other work we've been doing.
Today was our meeting downtown with the IRS. I've definitely had more fun, less stressful afternoons, but all in all it went okay. At least the girl was nice and now we have it mainly behind us.
Although, true to form in "if we didn't have bad luck we'd have no luck at all" category, now our air conditioner isn't working at the house or in Derrick's car and Derrick has a flat tire. It really does shock me how much stuff gets thrown at us sometimes. Maybe I'm just feeling sorry for myself. I mean, I know everyone has "their stuff", but it really does seem like we get more than our fair share sometimes...or at least in too short of a time frame.
One of our neighbors brought down a couple of his grandson's old toys for Myles today and he is SO HAPPY. He is in love with his Little Tykes Couzy Coupe that looks like a police car. He's convinced he's a police man now! It was really cute until he refused to go to bed because he didn't want to stop playing with it.
Gina is doing well too. She's saying a few more words. Tonight she even put two words together: "Mommy, here". Although yesterday she was playing with Myles' toy computer and said "heya" (here) as she proceeded to bust my lip with it. I literally started crying. Man, that hurts. The inside of my lip is cut and it's swollen. Had she got my nose I know she would have broken it. Tonight she climbed up into my recliner, looked at me with that little coniving grin and said "mine". It's a good thing she's cute. Little rascal. She's so similar yet so different from Myles. She is a blanket cuddling, doll snuggling ,hand holding, loves to kiss girl that could make a grown man cry with her pouty lip "look through the eyelashes" look she gives you when she's upset. She is small but mighty and either doesn't know or doesn't care that she is the smallest and youngest child the sitter watches. If you were to ask her I'm sure she thinks she's in charge. Today when I went to pick her up she wanted to get down outside. Apparently she wanted to sit on the step and relax for a few minutes. She very slowly, and very cautiously started walking backwards with her butt sticking out, ready to sit. Instead of just turning around and looking, she'd try to sit, realize she was too far away and take a couple more slow steps backwards until her little booty hit the porch step. Then she sat down, clapped her hands and smiled. All was right in her world, and she gave Cindy and I quite a laugh. It must be in the genes to do everything the hard way. :)

I sure am tired

considering I haven't really done anything. Don't you hate days like that when you're just exhausted for no good reason?
It's another beautiful day here today. We went to church and the kids both had a good time. Gina even walked right into her class to play with the other little girls, and Myles went to his room without even so much as a good bye. That is really a good feeling.
We then went and had a nutritious lunch at McDonalds. lol Myles and I went to Target to return yet another radio that I couldn't get to play K-Love at work. I just got diapers and wipes instead. Can't go wrong with those. Although I'm not so sure why I spend my Mother's Day present on stuff for the kids (besides a pedometer and some new make up I tried).
I was hoping we'd get more cleaning accomplished this weekend than what we have, but I'm having a hard time getting motivated. We really wanted to get a bunch of stuff cleaned up from the basement before the trash man picks up tomorrow, but we'll see. At the beginning of the week I need to call someone to come pick some of the toys and clothes up, but I guess first we have to get it all upstairs and out to the garage. That should be fun.
Derrick has a big interview on Tuesday that would be a great opportunity, so please keep your fingers and toes crossed and keep us in your prayers. We're really hoping June is the month for us.
Well, I hear Myles outside talking to the girls that live behind us that I don't like, and they are inviting themselves into our house. Gina is crying because I won't let her outside with out me, so I better run.
Hope you're all having a good day! God Bless.

What a beautiful day!

It was such a pretty day here today! I can't believe how cool it still is considering this is Memorial Day Weekend, but I'm not complaining. I'm sure our electric bill will reflect the fact we haven't needed air yet, which is nice!

Myles and I met his teacher, Mrs. Stewart, at school briefly today to get his back pack back. When we went to his party for his last day of school I totally forgot about it. She was sweet enough to call and meet me at the school to return it. I'm so glad I did that too, because there were some really cute things in there that represented his first year of preschool. We have already started a memory box for this first year of school to keep some of the craft projects that he's done, and now we can add his Preschool Diploma, a book that represents each of the shapes they studied every month, and a book of self-portraits Myles drew each month. It's so cute.

Derrick and Myles then went to Harbon Park to play soccer. Myles is SUCH a daddy's boy right now, wanting to go everywhere he goes and do everything he does. It's sweet to watch. It's nice that Derrick is home on the weekends to spend so much time with us now, especially because with our opposite schedules we barely see him through out the week.

Overall it's been a really good day, but not nearly as productive as I had planned. We wanted to work on getting the basement cleaned out and start getting some stuff thrown out/donated, and we haven't even touched it. Oh well. Guess I shouldn't focus on that too much since it's supposed to be a fun, holiday weekend.
Right now both of the kids are asleep and Derrick is out working in the yard. I'm trying to enjoy some quiet time alone, but I'm feeling sick to my stomach. I think I've had way too many sweets today. Ugh. So anyway, I'm off to relax for a little while. Hope you all had a good Saturday!

Some pictures

These are from the trip we took to the Air Force museum before Stacey left, and include her two boys, Eli and Chase, and also a few from Myles' last day of preschool. More on that in another post. I should add that Myles took the pictures of Chase, Gina, Eli and the super duper close up of himself. lol
By the way, in the picture of Myles with his school friends, check out the girl sitting next to him. That cracks me up!

Monday, Monday.

I've had a good day so far. I went into work this morning for a few hours, and I actually kind of enjoy doing the half day. I'm able to get out of there and still enjoy my day, plus it gets me up and showered and all that good stuff.
Gina had an appt today with her therapy people and the boys stayed home with her for that. They made a list of words she says and just want us to add on to it over the next couple of weeks as we hear new things. I'm not so sure she's actually saying all the words they wrote down, but maybe I'm not giving her enough credit.
Derrick said they were letting her play with play do, but kept handing her a plastic fork to poke holes in it, and she kept trying to eat the play do with the fork. I agree that'd be a little confusing since she's just learning to use utensils right now. He said it was a good appt though and the next time a speech therapist will come out to evaluate where she is and provide any support. Really I think she's totally fine, but just feel safer having them come periodically to keep track of everything.
Derrick didn't have any interviews today, so we actually got to spend a couple of hours together before he went to work, which was nice.
We did go to the new church again this weekend, Fairfield Church of Christ. I think we both liked it a little better this time. Both of the kids seemed happy and comfortable there. Gina went in the room without even crying...just a little pouty lip. But when we picked her up she was sitting at the picnic table having a pretend tea party just as happy as could be.
Myles went right up to his room, told them his name, and went on it. The guy even picked him up gave him a high 5, and Myles spoke to him. You all know how unusual that can be for my shy, akward Myles.
We ran into a couple of people we know as well, which was nice. One was our neighbor, and the other was one of my previous back up babysitters that watched Myles for about 3 weeks at one time. It was great to see her and her kids again and for her to see Myles and Gina. Gina is the age Myles was when she watched him!!
Our situation right now is certainly not ideal, but there are some upsides to it. I really think God put us in a situation where we'd have to strongly re-evaluate a lot of things, and that's what we're doing. It's nice to have my quiet alone time at night to do my devotionals and journaling, and the time together on the weekends is such a blessing. Myles has really enjoyed having Derrick here more, and I do too since it means I can sleep a little later and usually get breakfast cooked.
Hopefully he'll end up with a new job soon that allows us to have similar benefits.
Talk to you all soon!

Another week flies by!

I can't believe it's Thursday already! With Derrick working second shift, my days are just flying by. It's a little strange to be alone with the kids all evening and going to bed in an empty house! In the beginning, I have to admit it was slightly nice, probably because it was new, QUIET, and I looked at it as alone time.
The newness is wearing off though. Although, I guess I should be careful what I say, as the hours have worked out so well for Derrick to do his main job hunt since he has almost all day. He only has one more week to work second shift, and then he'll have to switch to first. Hopefully he'll still be able to get in enough hours, and have time for all the interviews/meetings.
I know these have been long days for both of us. I'm so proud of my husband and not only how hard he's working, but how positive he's staying while doing it. He's always been a night owl, and now that he's working until 1 am anyway, he often doesn't go to bed until 3 or 4 am. Then he gets up when he hears Myles awake and has a hard time falling back to sleep knowing everything he has to do. He's had so many appointments with recruiters, interviews and other things to take care of, which is great on one hand, but also exhausing to do all day and then go into work. And then to top it off, after all that, he'll be staying home with the kids all day tomorrow. I don't know how he does it all on such little sleep.
We're both thinking positively about his career job search and are hoping the right thing comes along soon. The big problem we're running into is a lot of people are wanting him to relocate. As most of you know, that'd be really hard for me. So keep praying that the right job...with the right hours, and really right pay...comes along soon. Derrick and I will both be SO appreciative and look at things so much differently now. We've both learned a lot.
Thanks to all of you for all of your support and kind words to keep us lifted up when we're down. I'm lucky to have a family I can count on.
Well, Gina is sleeping and I'm gonna try to get Myles to go to sleep here soon too so I can continue reading the book for our book club. And enjoy that quiet time!!!
Hope you all have a good night!!

An update on our "church hopping"

This morning we went to Fairfield Church of Christ. My sitter grew up going to that church, and her family still does.
I cannot say we fell in love with it at first sight. However, we did both really like it. I think this one is at least worth devoting some time to before we decide for sure.
Both of the kids did great. When we picked Gina up we caught her still having a tea party with one of the care takers. It was so cute! They said she did great, which is not very common for her in a new place, so that was very encouraging.
We then went to pick up Myles. One of the teachers in there was a man, and he told us that he and Myles had bonded. Myles agreed (silently) and gave him a high five on the way out. Also a pleasant surprise and reaction for Mr. Slow to Warm Up.
The sermon was much more similar to John Wesley, which was a good thing, especially for Derrick. Today probably wasn't a "typical" Sunday for them since it was Mother's Day, but we did both enjoy it. It's always a little odd and uncomfortable being in a new place, not familiar with the structure of it all.
I would ultimately like to connect with other people my age, and I was a little surprised at how many older people were there (I don't mean older as in "older than us"...I mean older, like in their 70's), but there were some younger couples there as well. They also offer a lot of small groups, and that's probably where we'll connect.
Everyone was very warm and welcoming, and the fact the kids had a great time goes a long way with me.
So that's our update for now!

A couple sweet moments to remember:

Yesterday we rented a truck from Budget rental trucks, much to Myles delight. As the kids and I waited in the car for Derrick to complete the paperwork, Myles looked around and asked which truck we were going to get.
I pointed out the rental truck parked directly in front of us, and he said "that one? We're gonna get the "B" truck"? I had to smile as he noticed the word Budget on the truck. My sweet boy, so proud he recognizes his letters, couldn't wait for us to take home the "B" truck.
As we were getting ready for church this morning, Myles saw Derrick shaving. Myles asked if he could have "some shave". As I watched Derrick rub shaving cream on Myles' face and wipe it off stroke by stroke with a wash cloth, I wanted to get my camera to take a picture, but it was too sweet to walk away. They were both so happy.
Then, realizing we must be going somewhere, Myles said "Are we going to get a "B" truck again today? :)

Gina has learned to say no by shaking her head back and forth. It doesn't sound like that big of a deal, but for some reason she can crack all of us up when we ask her a question and her little head full of curls shakes back and forth. It's just so cute. That girl has some looks that could make a grown man cry.

Myles asked her if he could have a kiss, and like a true girl, she shook her head back and forth to say "no". Myles laughed and said "mommy, she's a-larry-ous". Hearing that made me crack up. Yes, Myles, she is hillarious. That's one mispronunciation I just can't correct yet.

These are the moments that seem too few and far between when we get caught up in the details of life. But when we actually allow ourselves to slow down and enjoy our lives instead of just going through the motions to get *through* each day, we can recognize and cherish these moments as they happen.

Thank you God for making me a mother. I often say to people "I love my kids more than you can imagine". But I can't say that to you. Not only can you imagine how much I love them, you know *exactly* how much. And you love me, your child, even more.
Thank you God for your love and for providing us with a day to slow down and enjoy some sweet moments together as a family. Please continue to draw me closer to you so that I may not only learn more about you, but so that I can also teach my children about you. I hope that by the time my children are my age they know you infinitely better than I do now.

Hope you all had a good day also!
Ally

Happy Mother's Day 2008!

To all of those mother's out there, I hope you've had a blessed day!

I found a couple of poem's I really enjoyed I thought I'd share. I hope one of them speaks to you as they did me.


Mother's Love

Her love is like an island
In life's ocean, vast and wide
A peaceful, quiet shelter
From the wind, the rain, the tide.
'Tis bound on the north by Hope,
By Patience on the West,
By tender Counsel on the South
And on the East by Rest.
Above it like a beacon light
Shine Faith, and Truth, and Prayer;
And thro' the changing scenes of life
I find a haven there.
- Author Unknown


Real Mothers

Real Mothers don't eat quiche; they don't have time to make it.
Real Mothers know that their kitchen utensils are probably in the sandbox.

Real Mothers often have sticky floors, filthy ovens and happy kids.

Real Mothers know that dried playdough doesn't come out of shag carpet.

Real Mothers sometimes ask "why me?" and get their answer when a little voice says, "because I love you best."

Real Mothers know that a child's growth is not measured by height or years or grade. . .
It is marked by the progression of Mama to Mommy to Mother.

- Author Unknown.



God's Masterpiece Is Mother

God took the fragrance of a flower...
The majesty of a tree...
The gentleness of morning dew...
The calm of a quiet sea...
The beauty of the twilight hour...
The soul of a starry night...
The laughter of a rippling brook...
The grace of a bird in flight...
Then God fashioned from these things
A creation like no other,
And when his masterpiece was through
He called it simply - Mother.
- Herbert Farnham




Parents' Prayer

O Father, our hearts are filled
with a great happiness.
For you have seen fit
to bless us with a child.
You have sent us one of
your own little angels
to love and protect.
We are aware of the great
responsibility that is ours
and we are humble.
We realize the honor
you have bestowed upon us
and we are grateful.

Great that we may be
ever patient and loving,
living in such a way
as to set a shining example
for our little one.
And as we seek to set
those tiny feet upon the paths
of righteousness, be ever with us.

May our home be a place of love
and harmony where your Spirit
is ever present. And may
our child find you in each
activity of our family life.

Bless us, we pray,
and walk beside us through
all our days together. Amen.

- Norman Vincent Peale


These are the Years

These are the years, the gentle years,
the soft and sentimental years

when wee little fingers
reach and touch
and little eyes gaze
with wonder and trust,
when you love so tenderly
and so so much,

these are the gentle years.

These are the years, the rainbow years,
the quiet, walk-on-tiptoes years,

the years of laughter
and smiles and sighs
when both of you watch
with misty eyes
the tiny bed
where a cherub lies,

these are the rainbow years.

These are the years, the tender years,
the blissful, sweet-surrender years,

when your little treasure
from above
is the soul and purpose
and center of
your plans and dreams
and dearest love,

these are the tender years.

- Barbara Burrow

A scare with Gina

Gina scared us today. She,for some still unknown reason, kept falling at the sitters yesterday. Not a normal "toddler fall" a straight back "I'm gonna faint" fall. I was trying to be calm, but when Cindy called and said she had just fallen straight back into her TV and hit her head, I decided to take her to the doctor.
He was very thorough and didn't see any immediate explanation (ear infection, etc), but also didn't see any obvious signs of concern (dialted pupils, etc).
So, he told me to keep an eye on it for now, but told me what signs to watch for and what signs meant come back to the doctor and which meant go straight to the ER. So of course I was very scared.
Mom watched her the rest of the day though, and she seemed to be fine. I still feel like she's 'waddling' more than normal (shifting her weight side to side a lot more than usual), and just falling in general more than she usually does, but maybe I'm just being paranoid.
The kids are both home with daddy today, and he also seems to think she is acting okay. I don't know if it's my mommy gut, or just extreme mommy worry, but I'm just not so sure.
I'm just hoping she doesn't do anything like this again, and I PRAY that I don't see any of the signs that he told me to watch for that meant head straight to the ER. If I do, Derrick might as well call 911 and request a double transport, because I'll be needing medical assistance myself.
It's amazing when our kids scare us how INTENSE our instincts and love for them become.
So some extra prayers for Gina would be much appreciated!!

More updates and prayers

as we all know life in the Lawary family is anything but boring.
Let's see. Life has had a lot of twist and turns for us lately.
We have decided that the Vineyard is not the right place for us, but after doing some more investigating and talking to people, I think we found a church that will be what we need. We are going to go for the first time this Sunday. I have prayed that God will lead us to our new church home, so hopefully this will be it. I'm looking forward to getting settled and plugged in lately.
I have been continuing to read GOOTP and love it. I've learned so much. I was listening to K-Love today (which, btw, Kim I never answered you...K-Love is my favorite channel!!) and it was talking about how just as the middle of the road is a dangerous place for animals, it is for Christians as well. God wants us to be all in or all out. You can't hang out in the middle, choosing when you call on God, choosing when you listen to him, choosing to just spend an hour a week with him and think you're going to really know him and have a relationship. I just love that analogy. I want to be "all in" and am getting closer and closer to that every day.
Not all of you know this, but Derrick is now done with Waffle House and will be working for Kopco 2nd shift temporarily until he is able to replace his career position. Please keep him and our entire family in your prayers for him to be led to the right position and for many doors to open for us. We are so thankful to even have the opportunity for this to be a possibility for him, and neither of us take that lightly.
Derrick and I have also been praying for God to not only bring us closer to him, but also to grow closer to each other. My eyes have been opened lately and I've realized how far we've wandered away from each other...just slowly, over a period of time...until we got to a point where our relationship was too much like a "business" and not focused on love and respect as much as it should be. We want to put God first in our lives, and ask him to help us do the work that needs to be done to totally reunite us and make us as happy as we both deserve to be, and also the best possible role models we can be.
Lastly, we want to completely open ourselves up to do what needs to be done to have financial security and peace. It may not be easy, and I know we may not get the answers I want, but clearly we haven't done well when left to our own devices, so it's obviously time to let God steer that ship for a minute. It seems like right now, every time there is an "up" there is an equal or greater "down". But I know that if we have our eyes, hearts and ears open he will guide us to do what needs to be done, and with a huge leap of faith and a lot of hard work, we will get to where we need to be.
So forgive me for not blogging as much as I could be or for not commenting on other blogs like I'd like too. Right now I'm going through a period of change and it's exciting but exhausting, so bear (bare?..holy cow I'm tired) with me. I'm trying to spend my "free time" reading, journaling, etc so that I can do the work on myself that needs to be done. I know you all understand!
I love you all. Off to do my jornal and GO TO BED!!! It's been another (too) fast weekend and I know I'm going to be exhausted in the morning!

Who keeps stealing my time?

Seriously??!! I thought I had only missed one night of blogging. Clearly I was wrong.
I thought I had only missed 2 days of doing my prayer journal, yet before last night, the most recent date was April 28th. Someone must have ripped some pages out, because that just doens't seem possible.
And how is it possible that Stacey is leaving in just days?! There's no way she's been here 2 years. We were able to get together yesterday up in Dayton and again today for dinner. I was too sad to even cry when I hugged her good bye. The biggest part of me is still in denial that she's leaving, as I have been since the day she told me. If I don't believe it, it won't really happen.
Stacey, thank you so much. You have touched my heart and forever changed my life. I know our friendship will endure and continue to grow through phone calls. I just hate that Myles and Eli won't see each other very often anymore, and that Chase and Gina won't be able to hold hands (unless we can come up with a plot now to get them married when they grow up) lol.
I love you Stacey. Thank you for blessing me and teaching me so much. I hope time continues to pass quickly until we are able to get together again soon.

A long week

I'm glad this is Friday and the work week is over. It's been a long and emotional week, and I'm looking forward to getting the kids to sleep early so I can too!

We're thinking of going to see Stacey in Dayton this Sunday, and then hopefully meeting her and her family for dinner Monday night. She now has less than 2 weeks left before she moves, so we're trying to get in as many visits as possible. I'm really going to miss her, but I also know we'll be in regular contact!

Hope all of you had a good day! Take care.

More of life's lessons

1. I have learned that although my tendancy when things go wrong is to become filled with anxiety, stress and fear, those emotions only serve to make you miserable and keep you deep in a pit. They zap the energy you need to actually think clearly and work *through* the situation! I am actually learning to be able to control the feelings I have, which is huge.
2. I have learned that through faith and hard work you really can change your situation.
3. I have learned that when you reach out to those who love you, even when it's hard and your pride makes it difficult, your community really will support you and lift you up. God wants us to choose our friends wisely so that we have a network of people around us that are able to give us strength and support.
4. I have learned that I love contemporary christian music and now listen to it in my car all the time!
5. I have learned that when you are feeling the most down, depressed, sad, tired, etc and don't feel like you are able to pray, that is when you need to pray the most.
6. I have learned that if you have faith and ask God to take the burden you are carrying from you, that he really will. If you just let him. You have to be willing to actually let it go and trust that he'll take care of you.
7. I have learned that I had a void in my life I didn't even know existed until I began filling it with the only thing that CAN fill it...God.
And on a more personal, funny level:
8. I have learned that even though a 4 year old boy looks like he's totally into his cartoon, he still hears...and understands...every word you and your husband are saying.
9. I have learned that an 18 month old girl is already very capable of charming her way out of trouble with a look and a kiss.
10. I have learned I love my family more every day.

Updates

I've been tired lately and haven't been making the time to blog, but I've missed it. I'm in a season of my life right now where there is just a bunch of life's junk being thrown at us, and we're trying to sort through it all without going crazy. I'm so glad I have such great family and friends to lift me up when I need it!

So we went to a new church again this past sunday. It was still part of the
Vineyard, but one of the plant churches. It's called the Vineyard NW. I really liked it. I was much more comfortable with the size, the child care, the people were all so friendly, etc. I also signed up for a daily devotional email the church sends out, and I have been really enjoying reading those each morning.

Derrick and I didn't enjoy the pastor as much at this church as we did the one at the Big Vineyard, but we're hoping with time that will change. We watched a few baptisms during the service, and what a change that was. They did baptism by emersion during the songs we sang, and they had the person/people that led them to Christ do the baptism. It seemed like such a special moment for a family to share.

Derrick is on the road today job hunting. He was meeting a recruiter in Beechmont this morning and then was going to go to several places and put his resume in and/or get the contact information of the right person to do that with.

Hopefully something good happens and soon. Things just continue to get worse and worse with Waffle House and he just needs to be out of there NOW!!!

The kids are both good. Gina has learned to squeal at a pitch so high and loud she could shatter glass. We are trying, unsucessfully I might add, to teach the concept of "inside voice".
Myles is still in a phase of wearing "blue pants" (his jeans) and asks for them every day. He even wants Gina to wear blue pants. It wouldn't be such a big deal if they weren't so big on his waist that he has to hold them up!!

So anyway, hope you are all having a good day.

A larger force is clearly at work

When I read yesterday's daily devotion it was almost creepy enough to make me either cry or toss the book aside and never pick it up again. How does he KNOW what message you need?
So, I've become fascinated with this book. Today I decided that since we're in April I must have missed a lot already and decided to skim through the beginning of the book. I landed on January 4th.
It is entitled Worthless Worry. It says:
We worry. We worry about the IRS, and the SAT and the FBI...we worry that we won't have enough money, and when we have money we worry that we won't manage it well.....
Honestly now. Did God save you so you would fret? Would he teach you to walk just to watch you fall? Would he be nailed to the cross for your sins and then disregard your prayers? Come on. Is Scripture teasing us when it reads "He has put his angels in charge of you to watch over you whereever you go"?
I don't think so either.

Now some of you may know more than others how, shall we say, ironic that is. I mean, really.

So then I see January 5th. It's entitled A Complete Restoration.
At lunch yesterday Kim and I talked about how it's so easy to put on the "cosmetic front" of being a believer, but not really doing the work to make the necessary changes. That really hit home for me. I realized that most of my life I had been a Christian as it was convenient for me. If I needed something I was sure to call on God, but I didn't invite him to walk with me daily. It's time I do the work, as hard as it may seem now, to really invite him into my heart and make the changes I need to make to live up to his plans for me.

So, with that in mind, that devotion reads:
God loves to decorate. God HAS to decorate. Let him live long enough in a heart, and that heart will begin to change. Portrait of hurt will be replaced byh landscapes of grace. Walls of anger will be demolished and shak foundations restored. God can no more leave a life unchanged than a mother can leave her child's tear untouched.
This might explain some of the discomfort in your life. Remodeling of the heart is not always pleasant. We don't object when t he Carpenter adds a few shelves, but he's been known to gut the entire west wing. He has such high expectations for you. God envisions a complete restoration. He won't stop until he is finished. He wants you to be just like Jesus.

~~I mean, these devotions are not coincidence. It's so amazing to me. It's changing such small things. Today Myles wanted to turn on the sprinkler to water our grass seed. Knowing it was going to rain tonight, I didn't want him to. When he said why, I immediately replied "because God is going to water it for us". Now you all know that wouldn't be a typical response for me, as small as it is. And he gets it. He thinks it's so neat that God is going to do it for us. And Kim....he then said "yes...God will also make it night time and he put the stars in the sky". Do you remember that?
These are such exciting, scary, and wonderful times. Just today we had another "setback" and I'm so proud of myself for not falling into the trap. I know if I quit being bothered by the things that are thrown at me, that those forms of "attack" will most likely stop. If you're reading GOOTP, you saw in chapter three she talks about Satan using distractions to keep you away from God, then lets those distractions lead to addictions, and the addictions can ultimately cause destruction.
Money was definitely what was used to distract me. I let my own thinking patterns become addictive, to the point I felt they were close to destorying me. So today when Satan through another distraction my way I just didn't react. Just found another way around it. I have to say, I'm very proud of myself, and am almost glad that we *did* have the distraction, as frustrating as it could be, just so I got the opportunity to prove to myself that I can handle anything that comes my way.
It's amazing how in such a short time period my desire for more and more knowledge has become so strong!!
Derrick is probably wondering who abducted his anxious, fearful, and dare I say nagging wife and replaced her with someone that's calm...but I don't think he's complaining.
have a good night!!!!!

A blessed day

Today I received a huge blessing. I got a Study Bible and Daily Devotional. I'm excited about digging in! That actually seems somewhat strange for me to say. While I liked to think I was a good Christian, I didn't really have an interest in reading the Bible until now.

I had a rough night last night and got hardly any sleep because of it. I had one of those "thinking nights" where I couldn't turn my brain off long enough to go to sleep. I woke up feeling tired, worried and drained. So to have received this gift meant so much, and came at such an awesome time for me.

I really feel my heart opening and being changed. It would be easy to question why it seems like I have to keep going through struggles to bring me closer to God, but I also realize that I would not be learning or growing nearly as much as I am without them.
I'm hoping that as I continue to learn I won't continue to need such strong "wake up calls" from God and that I'll begin to hear him when he's whispering to me--not waiting for the loud shouts to get my attention.
We've been down a rocky road lately, but I hope the adventure of traveling it brings us to a better, brighter future.
It's so interesting to me that so many things have happened and come together the way they have the last month or so. I'm sure it's just the start of a long, but worth while journey.

Ally

I've taken to watching grass grow.

We have been trying to get our lawn back in shape so we can keep up with all of the retired old men that live on our street and do nothing but take care of their lawn. Yes, our grass is sad. It's full of dandelions this year and just not thick.
Derrick put down the fertilizer with weed killer, and just laid new grass seed. Now it's become my new hobby. I turn on the sprinkler every night and every morning go check it out hoping it looks slightly better than the day before. It's sad really.
And why are kids so drawn to sprinklers? Myles BEGS to run through it and Gina just laughs so hard she squeals and walks around the driveway in circles. She's like a wet dog after a bath chasing it's tail. She's so excited she doesn't know what to do.
It's funny how I'm now aware of things I didn't notice before, let alone care about. I'm trying to be more "present" and "just be". When I'm outside with the kids, I'm trying to actually enjoy them, toss a ball around, etc. That's what led to the realization that our front yard is not quite up to par. I think our grass and garden knows it's been abandoned by it's former green thumb care taker, and it's sad.
So, I'm hoping this year we get some nicer grass in, and we plan on digging up the garden and replanting it and putting some pots around. Should be fun. Or have I just gotten old?

Good for a smile

I took these pictures a few days ago as we were getting ready to leave the house. She looked so cute, I just had to take a picture. I had forgotten about them until today. When I saw her look I just couldn't help but laugh. Man, I love that little girl. Attitude and all.

Another day of perfect weather!

It's just so beautiful!!!
I had a very productive weekend. Got some closets cleaned out and organized (I just wish I could find a neat way to keep our shoes since we ahve a small closet!!)and got some things together for a Goodwill trip...which I really will make one day.
Derrick was able to get some yard work done, and we planted some grass seed today. I hope it starts to grow soon-we had so many dandelions this year and lots of bare patches in the yard. Now that I'm outside with the kids so much I really notice all the outdoor things I didn't pay much attention to before, and Derrick's "honey-do list" is growing each day! lol
The kids had a great time with Aunt Marilyn and Uncle Larry today and Derrick and I really enjoyed our time away. It's the perfect time of year to get out and about alone!!
And a huge accomplishment for me? This morning I was feeling like I really needed that time with Derrick so he could once again reassure me and tell me everything was going to be okay. It's a role I've come to depend on him for, and it isn't fair...to either of us. Today as soon as I had that thought, I immediately had another thought (placed there by God, I'm sure), that I don't need Derrick, or anyone, to reassure me things are going to be okay. I KNOW they will be okay. I may not know HOW things are going to work out, but that's okay now. I've become comfortable with the fact that I don't have to know every detail of how/when/why. I can just have faith that things WILL work out. And what a blessing that is! (And a huge relief for Derrick, I'm sure).
Our time together today was so much more enjoyable without having to have serious conversations about what if's. I was totally able to just enjoy our time together and the awesome weather and leave all the other "stuff" alone for a while.
It's the end to another very fast weekend, and I'm wishing I didn't have to go back to work tomorrow. I hate being stuck inside this time of year. Join the crowd, right??!
Have a good night!

Nothing much

to post tonight, just popping in.
We went to the Vineyard Community Church today, and it was really nice. Different, but good. It's just such a big place it can be really overwhelming, but this is coming from someone who has never much liked changed. I think we need to go a few times to just get used to it and feel comfortable, but I do think it's a good change for us and could definitely see us meeting some new friends there. I really enjoyed the conversational style of the message, and a few points really hit home with me.
We just got done with a grocery store run that seemed to take forEVER, took back Alvin and the Chipmunks and now the kids are going to bed.
Tomorrow Derrick and I will get some time to ourselves as Aunt Marilyn and Uncle Larry are coming over. We have no idea what we're gonna do, but that's okay. It's just nice to get out!!! Hopefully we'll have good weather...I haven't even checked. So far the weekend seems to have been a rain out!
I think at this point I'd be happy just parking the car at a park somewhere and taking a nap! lol
Hope everyone has a good night!

Fun times

We all had a good day today. It's the first time in a long time Derrick is off on vacation. He stayed home with the kids yesterday and got to sleep in today. I guess it's good timing (or...hmm..maybe planning?) that he's off during the basketball playoffs. I decided to let him have a restful day today and since the kids and I were all antsy to get out of the house, it worked out. We first went up to Cincinnati Mills with the last minute idea of watching Alvin and the Chipmunks. We got some snacks and headed down to the theatre (yes, we were gonna sneak them in!!), but the next showing didn't start for an hour. So instead we went to Bass Pro shops to see the fish. Myles gave me a lesson...when did he learn about fish?? But he knew all about the sword fish and something else I can't even remember now. He's really gonna have to go fishing here one day soon!!!! He loves his fishing pole and watching fish...can you imagine if he actually caught one?
We then came home and ate some lunch and Myles and I ended up falling asleep while Gina took her nap. We then walked down to the school's playground and let them both slide, climb and run for a while. After that we grabbed a quick dinner and went to rent Alvin and the Chipmunks instead.
Now he's watching that and I'm gonna go enjoy the rest of the evening with Derrick.
Tomorrow we're going to go to the Vineyard for the first time, and I'm really excited about it. I think it'll be a great new church home for us.
Hope you all have a good night!!!

It's Spring Time!

And I'm joining in and turning over a new leaf. I've had a spiritual awakening the last couple of weeks, and I feel so much better...so much more relaxed and positive!
In fact, I've received two emails from friends this week telling me how happy I seem and how it's so good to see me this way. It's so nice to hear that, but also makes me sad that I must have seemed so "down" before that. You all know me well enough to know I wear my emotions on my sleeve, so I guess it's pretty obvious to everyone around me when I'm not feeling myself. You know what?? It's totally draining and exhausting to worry so much. Seriously!!!
Derrick is not feeling well today, so we didn't get to have what has quickly become our "family time" outside for long today (although Myles somehow talked him into taking him to UDF), but it was still fun to be outside. Myles loves playing basketball and Gina just loves being outside. When we came home from Cindy's today Gina literally refused to go inside. She just sat down on the path to the door and wouldn't budge.
We then all came inside and gave the kids a bath. This was Gina's second bath in the tub with no bath ring. There's no going back now (unfortunately). She LOVES sitting in the water by herself and even keeps putting her face in. The problem? She keeps standing up. I tell her firmly to sit down and she just smiles and blows a kiss. That girl is a mess. She wasn't real happy when she did it again and just laughed and mama took her out of that tub and got her jammies on. A wet 18 month old is a slippery little thing!!! And how do they get so strong? Is she lifting weights in her crib after I put her down??
Tonight she was probably secretly practicing her grin and giggle to use against daddy tomorrow as he's staying home with the kids. Fortunately Myles is at an age where he can keep no secrets, so I know I'll hear about all of the "goings on". lol Just like I get to hear about all of the interesting things that happen at Cindy's house...well, at least the things that everyone ELSE does. He's not silly enough to tell on himself.
In fact this morning he told me that Brooke and Lydia got into Cindy's bathroom cabinet and dumped out all of those 'things that go in your ear' and made a big huge mess. Then he said that Cindy put cream in her mouth, but I couldn't get him to expand on that. Out of curiousity I had to ask. Yes, apparently Brooke and Lydia did in fact dump out a 650 count box of Q-tips all over the bathroom floor. And the cream? Cindy had to think and then started lauging and admitted then in a moment she thought no one was looking she indulged in a mouth full of whipped cream straight from the can. lol We should have known nothing gets past Myles (especially when there's sweets involved). He's better than a nanny cam. Tonight he cuddled up wtih me in the chair and asked me to put my arms around him. In about 30 seconds I looked down and he was sleeping. I just let him sleep in my lap for a while, as the chances to hold him are pretty rare now. What a good feeling it is to cuddle up with him and watch him sleep. As I carried him to his room (which is no small feat by the way) I thought about all of the times that I'd fall asleep with my dad at night and wake up in the morning and ask "how did I get in my bed last night"? It's amazing how fast time goes.

A good day.

Had a good, fast, productive day at work today. Came home and quickly ate dinner so we could go play outside. I took a walk around the block with both kids...yes, Gina actually walked the whole thing!!...while Derrick stayed home and got some yard work done.
The kids were so cute...Myles took a basketball with him and dribbled it around the block; Gina kept stopping to pick up sticks, rocks, and everything else she could, and occassionally just choosing to sit down. At one point, she must have been especially happy as she just stopped walking and started dancing and clapping. lol
It feels good to be outside in the warm weather. Everyone is outside...cutting the grass, planting flowers, etc. The signs of spring!!
It makes me excited as I think about everything I want to do....get the garden dug up and replanted, paint the deck, the garage cleaned out, and maybe even sometime over the next couple of months remove the wallpaper in the bathroom and kitchen and repaint. We'll see about that one...removing wallpaper is no fun!!
Now Gina is in her crib listening to her lullabible CD and talking to herself. Myles is curled up on the couch fighting sleep. Derrick is still cleaning the garage (where does all that STUFF in there come from, anyway??!!).
I've been stayng up late the last few nights and I'm tired. It's hard to go to sleep when it stays light out for so long! I just had to watch the Biggest Loser Finale last night, and I'm so glad Ali won. I was rooting for her from the beginning. Tonight I plan on having a relaxing rest of the night and catching up on some sleep!!

Gotta love my baby girl

You know you're in trouble when the doctor warns you that you might want to take a very long vacation when your daughter turns three. lol She said..."I believe I called this one very early on".
This, of course, was said in jest after having a conversation about her progress (no, she's not saying 10 words yet, but trust me....when she starts to talk it'll be in full sentences, and lord help us all when we hear what's on her mind), and after Gina shot her a couple of her "looks". That's my girl. She'll carry a blankie around all day and smother you with kisses, but don't mess with her. She's gotta mean pout and can say LOTS with a look.
So anyway, she's 32 inches and 23 pounds....around 40th percentle for weight, 60th for height. She said she'll definitely be above average height, but I could have guessed that before she was born. She got out of her shots (and cost us another trip to the doctor) because of her temperature. She's still not feeling well today, but other than some drainage in her throat and it being a little red, nothing seems to be wrong. It must be viral. Although they did do a rapid strep test and the doctor actually wished the nurse good luck as she was coming in to do it. lol She told Gina to give her heck.
Then there's The Boy. The one that was nervous to take his sister to the doctor, because as the older brother he knows what's coming. We celebrated a good visit with a trip to McDonald's and we actually "ate in". Myles was so thrilled. It is sad when they begin to think that food comes from a window. haha
Then we dropped Gina off at home with daddy and ran some erronds. He loves being able to spend one-on-one time with us. He's such a sweet boy and made getting groceries a fun trip. And boy, how easy was it to just take ONE child somewhere. Holy cow, that makes a big difference. I think about those parents with just one kid and realize they don't know how easy they have it. (And also know parents of three or more think the same of me). But he too brought a smile to my face when on the way home, less than an hour later, he says "I wonder what Gina's been doing all day"...as if we've been gone for hours. I'm so glad they enjoy each other the way they do though.
Now it's off to spend the last few hours of my weekend enjoying myself before we prepare to jump back into the craziness of "real life" tomorrow and head back to work, preschool, and the sitters. Please cross your fingers that Gina doesn't get a temp tomorrow while at Cindy's. I should probably be staying home with her, but considering I'm about out of vacation time in APRIL, I'm trying to save it for true emergencies.
This is one of those weekends that made me wish I was a Stay At Home Mom.
I put the kids to bed before I sat down to write this...hopefully it's given them enough time to actually fall asleep so I can enjoy the box of candy I snuck in the cart at the grocery store without being "caught". Isn't that awful??!

Geeze, it's been a while...

You might want to go outside and see if pigs are flying....did *I* actually run out of things to say? lol
The kids and I went to church today and it was quite a sad and emotional sermon. Larrry is leaving the church, and today he was talking quite a bit about it and saying part of his "good bye". He starting crying at the end, and I can never stand to see a man cry...gets me every time.
However, recently I/we have thought about finding a new church, but Derrick was always very hesitatnt as he is so loyal to Larrry. When Derrick got so ill a few years back and Larry came to the hospital to check on him, that meant the world to Derrick. He's never wanted to leave JW because of him.
So while I am very sad to see Larrry go, I do think it's another form of God talking to me. I think I need to find a new church home with more couples with young children. We plan on visiting a couple and hope to find one we love.
I keep getting hit with this message of living in the season. Kim, it's obviously what your blog is about, and you have the bible verse on there as well. It's also what we studied about at church today. It's funny how sometimes you get bombarded with the same message, but you're still not sure exactly what to DO about it. Maybe there isn't anything for me to actually "do"...or maybe I'm just a little slow on the uptake. Regardless, we actually said a prayer about starting new beginnings, the fear we feel as we face them, and the lack of faith we have in God as he leads us on those journey's. I couldn't help but thinking of Derrick's job search and the fear and anxiety it brings me. Why can't I just have faith that God will never leave me or forsake me and to trust in his plan for me? And why do I think somehow that worrying and wondering about it is going to make things better??
The weather this weekend has been cold and rainy, so I've felt sort of stuck inside. After church we did go to Target for a diaper run, but that was about it. Myles asked me if he could get something to eat. I asked him what he wanted, and he said "popcorn". I told him that we have popcorn at home. He said, but that popcorn is yucky...this popcorn will taste much better. lol He's quick on his feet. Although, sadly, just like me he does already much prefer eating out than at home.
Little Gina doesn't seem to be feeling the best today. She's kind of clingy and fussy and feels a little warm. I have an odd feeling it's an ear infection as she's been congested the last few days. It's good timing for once though as we have her 18 month well check scheduled for tomorrow. Well, it may not be so much a "well check" this time, but at least it's already scheduled. 18 months. Can you believe it?? I so clearly remember walking her around the hospital hallways, so proud of my sweet girl.
She's really starting to love on her dolls and is becoming attached to her blanket. She loves giving and getting kisses and hugs. Right now she's walking around with a push toy that makes a lot of noise and is loving driving everyone crazy with it.
I'm also feeling a little sad that tomorrow is the first Monday we won't be going to a scheduled therapy appt for Myles. But I just got an awesome email from Megan, his OT, and she gave me lots of ideas and suggestions and offered to stay in touch. And her best suggestion...a timer for transitions. Marilyn, I know you can appreciate this one. Instead of just "one more minute" or "let me talk" the goal is to set a timer so he can visually see how much time is left. She recommended a couple that are supposed to be great for just this purpose, so we'll see.
He has found a new past time that we both enjoy. He loves brushing my hair. And it's not something I'll ever stop him from doing. I love having my hair played with, so I'm always happy to oblige. The scary thing is he also loves to do Gina's hair, and would rather look at "beautiful dresses" in the store than boy clothes. I think he's been around too many girls his whole life. lol
Hope you all have a great rest of the night. I'll keep you posted on Gina's appt.

Just rambling

I feel like I've been doing that a lot lately...to a lot of you. I'm so glad I have such an awesome circle of friends and family.
Monday Stacey and I were able to get together with the kids. Our time together always goes so quickly, and it makes me so sad to think about her leaving. We've become really good friends, and I just know if we lived in the same town we'd grow even closer. But I know our friendship can survive her families upcoming move to Washington DC in just over a month, and I'm trying to be as supportive (read....not whine about her leaving) of her as I can.
We hope to get together again this coming Monday...Stace, let me know if we're still on.
Yesterday I felt like I had a day where some prayers were answered. I think I finally quit thinking so hard (quit trying to control everything) and things started falling in place. Again, I know I have a guardian angel out there.
I had been trying to figure out how to make working on Monday's a feasible option for the family for a while, and just couldn't see how it'd work with needing daycare...it just didn't seem worth it. Until it finally hit me that I can go into work to make up some of the time I'm short during the week while Marilyn and Larry are able to come over! Why didn't that dawn on me earlier?
And today I got to have a much awaited for lunch with Kim. Thank you for such an awesome lunch date, Kim. We really need to do that more often! (Whenever your new Fly Lady schedule allows you to pencil me in. lol) I love being able to spend some one-on-one time with you!
We're also really enjoying this weather. Derrick's new schedule has allowed him to be home the last several days from about 4 on. It feels really weird. :) He's been meeting us outside with a basketball, and I don't know who loves playing ball more... Derrick, Myles or Gina. Myles is getting very talented and learns sports related things so quickly. And little Gina just LOVES being outside. She walks around like she owns the neighborhood, which I'm sure she thinks she does.
Derrick has also been cooking us dinner, and Myles has been helping. Yesterday they grilled hot dogs (Myles got them all off the grill with a little help) and today they made spaghetti. Myles loved throwing the meat in the pan and helping to stir. It's cute to watch them do things like that together. Myles is always wanting to "help" (remember, he loves having JOBS!!), and is just so happy to be able to have such fun with daddy!
Well...I'm off to enjoy some "free time". Myles is in his room watching a Curious George DVD, and Gina is in her crib playing her Fischer Price aquarium and babbling to herself. She's so sweet to listen too. She's becoming quite the "girly girl", carrying around her pink blanket and wanting to play with dolls. The sitter said she's fitting right in with all of the "big girls" (about to be 3) doing all of their girly stuff. She walks around with a purse on her shoulder, pushing dolls in a toy stroller. lol
Funny, how they always seem just a little sweeter when they're sleeping, huh?
Good night, everyone!!!

Some pictures

Here are some pictures from the park this weekend. We had a good time, and it was so nice to be able to get out and enjoy the weather...especially before the bugs come!!!

Myles had a field trip to the Winton Woods Nature Preserve today, so I'm anxious to hear about that and how it went. Hopefully he had a good time!!

Spring has sprung!!!

Hello Sunshine!! I've missed you!!!
Today we probably didn't take full advantage of the weather, but we did walk down to the park at Welch Elementary. The kids both had a good time, and Gina is really starting to enjoy going to play as well. She loves to swing, and climbs up steps, loves to slide. It's so cute. Myles is also getting braver and attempting new things. If I was a good blogger I'd have pictures here to show you all (I did get some cute ones), but since my computer is not of this century, I can't do that here.
I was just so glad to be able to get outside and see other people out playing with their kids, walking their dogs, etc. It was nice to be able to sit outside in the warm sunshine for a while just enjoying the kids playing!
We had actually gone to Harbon park yesterday in an early attempt to get out, but came home covered in mud. Yuck.
Tomorrow Stacey and I plan on meeting up after our failed attempt last week. We don't know what we're gonna do, but it doesn't matter. We've become quite close in a short amount of time, and just look forward to spending time together before she has to move to Washington DC in a couple of weeks.
I am planning on canceling Myles therapy appt at least for tomorrow, and maybe for good. I'm thinking about going next week just to have some "closure" to the process, but then we'll probably stop. Now that the warm weather is here we will be able to get outside to parks more and hopefully keep having "sensory input" and a lot of chances to socialize that way.
Derrick will be looking for a new job, and we're also looking at second jobs. Most likely for him, since anything I'd do would have to be from home to avoid daycare costs, so hopefully he'll have a new job (or two) here soon. Please keep your fingers toes and legs crossed for us that he finds something he loves and provides us both with a greater sense of contentment and security. I'm actually relatively calm about the process as I do feel after some soul searching that this is what we need to do, and if God agrees, it'll work out and fall into place. And if not, we'll just have to look at other alternatives.
Now we're off to get the kids a bath and maybe enjoy some movies I got from the library a couple weeks ago and totally forgot about. We have the windows and skylights open and are enjoying the fresh air and warm breeze.

Evening the score with the skylight and life's lessons

Up until tonight it was Skylight 1: Lawary's 0. I think we're gonna come out ahead though. Derrick was finally able to get up on the roof today (what excitement with Max barking and Gina squealing), and I think the cause of the indoor raining is relatively simple. The weather stripping around the outside of the screen had stripped away, leaving just a small enough space for water to drip in. So Derrick has gone to the store in hopes of finding some weather stripping to replace it, and our problem *should* be solved. Yay! It'd be nice if it was so simple!!!


***A lot of thoughts and lessons from life came together for me today. I've realized how strong I've become, how much I can handle, and to become at least a little bit more of a go-with-the-flow kind of person. Crazy, huh? I think as a control freak when you feel like you're losing control, you...well, freak. But several things have come together for me this week to teach me that *I* am not in control. And the more I fight that the more out of control I'll feel.
I'm learning to be comfortable with where I am at this stage of my life, and REALLY realizing what's important. I've lived so much of my life worrying, wondering, and controlling I've limited my happiness and caused myself a lot of undo stress. I'm learning that you can be depressed and mopy all you want, but it's not gonna get you anywhere but tired and drained. While it's good to take a couple of days to be true to your feelings, eventually you have to CHOOSE to be happy and not let your life control YOU. YOU have to control your life...and when things seem out of control just realize you can only do so much and then the rest just has to be turned over to God.
I've also learned that just as God gives us all unique spiritual gifts, he also has a unique purpose for each of our lives. And instead of spending my entire life trying to plan the next phase, I need to enjoy where I am NOW. And while that may not be exactly where *I* would always choose to be, as long as you're working hard and building a relationship with God, you'll get where you need to be. Life isn't about attaining as much money, possessions, or status as you can, nor is it about climing the career ladder.
Mainly I've learned that close supportive friends and family are truly invaluable. It doesn't matter what you have in life if you don't have the love and comfort that those relationships bring you.
I feel so fortunate to have all of you in my life. My friends and family really are all I need to be happy.

Are you scared?

I was giggling a little to myself in my own mind as I sat down to write this tonight. I really don't have anything of importance to say or mention, but I couldn't help but thinking "geeze...I bet people are scared to even check in and see what negative news I have now".
Fortunately today was a day of "no news is good news". I think we need several days...preferably weeks or months...with nothing major to report. Nothing that breaks, needs fixing, or goes wrong.
However I have to admit that I am not doing very well in terms of letting go of my anxiety and truly having faith in God that things will work out. I am a control freak that wants to MAKE things happen or know HOW they will happen. These next couple of days are going to be challenging for us, and we just have to pray, have faith, and rely on each other to make it through. And hey...if we happen to win the lottery, that'd be okay too! lol

It's also interesting to me that I never quite thought I was an "emotional eater", but I'm realizing I am. Not so much in the sense that I eat to feel better necessarily, but in the sense that I could care less what I eat when I'm stressed. Brownies? Who cares. It's been a rough day. Easter candy. Sure. Who has time to think about making healthy choices and working out when I can barely think at all.

I've also found my "vice". Some people smoke, some people drink, some do drugs or gamble. I sleep. I've been going to bed before 9 every day this week and loving it. Sure, it's easy to say I'm tired or had a long day, but really, sleeping is the only way to make myself stop thinking.

I guess it's in times of turbulence that we learn the most about ourselves. The things I'm learning aren't pretty, but at least I'm realizing them.

I'm so glad I started this blog. I didn't really consider myself a "journaler", but it's been nice to get on here and get my feelings out in writing. And I especially love the comments I receive. You have all been so kind and supportive and make me feel slightly less crazy.

Now I'm off to watch the DVR'd Oprah about the pregnant man. HOLY cow. Maybe I'll get a brownie too. But then I'm going to sleep.

A cute story

I have to share something positive or you all are going to run away screaming after reading my depressing blog day after day. lol
This morning I got to see Gina in all of her girly glory. As we got to Cindy's house she immediately wanted down. (Kind of nice coming from an overly attached mama's girl, but a little strange too).
The three bigger kids (Cheyenne and Sierra-Cindy's girls-and Myles) sat at the top step. Gina crawled up the steps (quickly I might add) as they all cheered her on. When she got to the top she turned around, sat down, and looked at Cindy and I with the biggest smile on her face like she was just so proud of herself and started clapping. And the three bigger kids clapped for her too.
Then, like the attention lover she is, she wanted to be put at the bottom of the steps to do it all over again...and again.
Since we don't really have any steps in our house, I don't get to see her do that too often. She has grown and changed so much the last couple of months and learned to do so many new things! It made me smile to see her mastering a new skill and to see her just eating up all of the attention she was getting.
Cindy said she follows the bigger kids around all day long. Probably bossing them around, but she didn't say that. lol

A prayer after a Tough Day

Today Derrick and I are forced to turn to God for peace and comfort as we're hit with some pretty rough news regarding his work. We're hoping that this is a blessing in disguise and possibly an answer to our concerns, even though right now it's hard to see the positive side.

Or maybe God has been trying to show us something for a long time now with all the events that have happened and we just haven't been hearing him. Maybe now he's just trying to knock louder and really get our attention.

Well God, you have our attention. Now we just need you to guide us the way you want us to go and help us see the path you want us to travel. That is what we're praying for now.
In the midst of all this, I'm just glad that we can turn to each other for support and some comfort.

God, please stand by us as we're feeling a little lonely and weak. Fill us with your strength. Help to show us all of our blessings and make us aware of all the uplifting things we have in our life.
Allow us to enjoy this beautiful spring day, the sunshine, and the beautiful flowers that are beginning to bloom.

Give us the patience and energy we need to deal with the challenges we face, and help us to feel the love and support of those around us.

4 year old for hire

(or sale if the price is right)

Myles loves having "jobs". He reminds me of Shiloh...he's a "working boy". lol He always wants a job, and usually does them pretty well. He likes to clean up the floor, help get Gina dressed, squirt anything he can (tables, windows, etc) to clean them. He loves being busy and it keeps him happy, so I'm always able to think of *something* that needs to be done. lol
He had school today for the first time in a while because of spring break. I'm curious to hear about that. He's really been missing Mrs. Stewart.

Gina is....well, Gina. She's a tough cookie, that one. Also loves to clean and follow her big brother around...and do anything she can to annoy him. He wants his chair, she wants it too. He'll get up to move to a different chair, and now she wants that one.
We girls learn how to pester the boys at an early age...gotta keep you on your toes.

It's about time to go pick up the dynamic duo. Everyone says quitting time is at 5, but for us, it's just starting time. Now the real work begins!