More pics....

Some pictures from our weekend

What's up in our world

We had a great Thanksgiving, even though we weren't able to make it to St. Louis. We had a quiet family day with lots of good food. We even got our tree put up, which was a lot of fun this year. Myles was very into it and hung almost all of the ornaments himself.
Friday I took the kids over to a friends house and a group of us had pizza, drinks, brownies and played games. I think I must be getting old. lol It was a lot of fun and we all had a great time.
Saturday we all headed downtown to enjoy the Christmas season. We watched people ice skate on Fountain Square, saw the train display, went to the mall and just walked around. It was a lot of fun and not super cold, which made it even more enjoyable.
Unfortunately I had to take Gina to the doctor this morning. She has a (bad) double ear infection and possible strep throat. Poor thing is just miserable and keeps saying "owie". She has the infamous amoxicilin, so hopefully she'll be feeling better in the morning.
Derrick finishes up his training in Madeira tomorrow, and he meets with his boss today to find out which store he goes to next. They are all very spread out, so it may not be any closer, but he likes the change of pace. Hopefully his schedule remains the same, as him being off on Sunday's and Monday's work so well for our family.
I head back to work tomorrow after a long 5 day weekend myself. I guess it'll be good to get in a routine, although I always enjoy my extended breaks.
I think that's all that's happening on our end! Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving and a good start to the week!

Our weekend....

Friday night started off fun for me because it was haircut day! I love getting my hair done, especially because I wait too long and end up getting to a point I can't stand it anymore.
Yesterday we went to church, which was a great service to celebrate Thanksgiving Day coming up this week. It was filled with lots of singing, sharing and fun.
After church we had the opportunity to deliver one of the turkey's and boxes of food the church raised to one of the families. We got lost due to bad directions, but it was still fun to do.
We then went grocery shopping at the Wal-Mart by our house as it re-opened, but they re-did the entire inside and we couldn't find anything we needed or they were out of it. Grocery shopping is a yucky enough chore without that being the case.
Today I had to go to the dentist for my turn to have my "cavity bugs" (as Myles calls them) fixed. They were going to fix two of them, but the one was very deep and I couldn't get numb enough, so they just did the one. Still two more appts. to go. Ugh.
Derrick doesn't have to go to Kopco today as they don't need him, so we are enjoying the extra time with him home. I've thought about even putting up the Christmas tree, but I think we'll wait until Thanksgiving.
Hope you are all having a great Monday!

I'm taking over Ally's blog...

For just a second. This is Stacey, and Ally gave me access to her blog to help her fix something. I couldn't pass up the opportunity to say how blessed I am by her, and Ally, your friendship means the world to me. I miss you more than you could know.

A blessed Friday

I'm so filled with Joy today. Through the help of donations at work and a generous company match, we raised a total of 270 dollars for Turkey Donations for our church. I'm so excited. I had no idea it'd turn out so big, and am just tickled pink.
It's amazing how doing something like this and reaching out makes you feel. I just love it.

I'm planning on going to get my hair done today, which only makes it even better. I love hair day.

Plus, I found a pair of jeans for Myles at a consignment store today and they look skinny enough to fit him. Yay!

It's the little things in life, ya know?

Croup

I'm so over croup. Myles has it again, and this time Gina does too. I just hate this little bug. They sound awful and there's just really nothing you can do. They are both at the sitters today as I've been told that the cold that caused the croup is contagious, but not the croup itself.
Tis the season I guess.
It's so cold here now and I just haven't been able to get warm all day. I'm looking forward to going home, cranking the heat up, and just having a calm, snuggly evening.
Hopefully they get to feeling better soon!

Myles at the dentist

I am so proud of my big boy! He had to go today to get two cavities filled. I was so nervous and didn't know how he'd respond, especially cause they were giving him laughing gas.
We just didn't say anything about it as we didn't want to worry him.
They gave him the laughing gas and novacaine and he did so well. He didn't move or even flinch. I've never had laughing gas before, but after seeing his reaction, I may ask for it next time. lol He just watched tv the whole time (wonder pets) and I thought he was going to fall asleep at one point.
He did get a little scared and start crying as we were leaving because his mouth was so numb and it freaked him out a little, but we ran by Dollar General on the way home, and that made everything all better.
I was afraid he was going to bite his lips/cheek because he kept playing with it, but he did well.
They even let him keep his little pink "nose" they administered the gas through, and he's so proud of it. He's such a big boy now, but he looked so little in that dentist chair. I know I was so much more nervous than he was. My stomach was a wreck.

Unfortunately next week it's my turn...well, turn 1 of 3 that is. It'll take 3 visits to get all of mine filled. :(
But hey, maybe a little laughing gas and some Wonder Pets will make me that happy too. lol

Anyway, it's cold here and we even had snow flurries today. I'm off to bed for an early night so I can warm up under the covers, and Derrick is already there. He has to be in Madeira at 4:30 in the morning. Yuck.

Have a good night!

An inspirational evening

The bible study I was doing ended a couple of weeks ago, but the group decided to get together tonight as a celebration. We all went to Riley's restaurant in Greenhills. It was a great opportunity to get to know some of them better and just have a good time. Janice, the pastor's wife, was there and I just really like her. They have two boys, ages 2 and 4, so we have a lot in common. She had her boys with her and it was nice to be able to see them since they are normally in Sunday school and have a chance to talk with her.
I had to tell her that I was not laughing *at* her as she struggled with the boys, it was simply that I knew I would have been going through the same exact thing if my dynamic duo was there. Moms, especially those with kids the same age, always just have an immediate connection.
While there, I ended up having a conversation with the woman sitting next to me that was almost identical to a conversation with Kim yesterday...a conversation about reading the bible.
When things like that happen I don't think it's coincidence, I think it's a message. So I became inspired to start reading my bible to learn and get answers to some of the questions I've had. I was given some good advice and tips on where to start, and I think it's going to be good, and much needed.
If any of you have any other tips...a good book to start on, ways to make it more meaningful, etc, please feel free to share. I know there a million ways to go about it, but I was thinking that given the season I'd start with the first book in the new testament and see where that leads me.
I think I need some sort of Bible 101 class...a Bible for Beginners so to speak to lay out all of the basic, simple things so I don't feel so lost and so far behind. But, since the bible I have has an introduction to each chapter as well as study notes, I think I just need to dive in.
And what a great time to start!

Aren't these the cutest thing ever?

I found the neatest website yesterday, I could spend hours looking at it. I love these and think it's something I can actually pull off!!

You just take a fudge stripe cookie, turn it fudge side up and then place a large marshmallow dipped in melted chocolate chips on top. Yellow frosting for the buckle.

More blue pants funnies

So Myles is very into "helping" Gina. As most of you can understand is help isn't always wanted or even helpful, but he loves being the "big brother".
So last night he wanted to help her change her clothes. It didn't matter that it was almost bed time and I was encouraging jammies, he really wanted to put blue pants on her. And new socks. And the shoes he loves.
And bless her heart she just laid on the floor and let him do it all.

When I asked him why he wanted her to wear blue pants so badly he replied:

"She's beautiful when she wears blue pants. If she's beautiful I'll be nice to her and not mean".

Ah, the magic of 4 year old logic.

Halloween 2008 pics

We had a great time. We went trick or treating around our block and then went to a Harvest Party at the church where they had games and snacks and movies, etc. It was a great time.

I'm here again!

Every time I go to make a new post and see it's been a while since the last one I think that I really need to make an effort to do this more often and be more consistent.
But I'm giving up on that. This is supposed to be fun, so I'm not going to allow it to be another "chore" to do. I figure I'll post when I can, as I know you all understand.
And really, my life isn't that interesting, so there aren't always new and fun things to share.

My staph infection has taken me out of the game for a while, but I'm on day 6 and feeling a little better. It's still sore, and gets worse as the day goes on since I'm back and work, but much better than what I was.
A co-worker of mine told me she saw a news story about a recent MRSA "outbreak". I believe it!

We're getting ready for Halloween, and I can't wait to post pictures. I just love both of the kid's costumes.
And, as a big kid myself, what's not to love about going door-to-door for candy?
Only problem is, this year Myles is big enough to be aware of how much candy he has and question why so much is missing. And I don't just mean because Derrick and I eat it after they go to bed, although that is also true.
As a sidenote, I have to laugh when I sneak something I don't want the kids to have when they are sleeping and I'll hear Myles get up after a while and walk down the hall. Don't you know I hide it in the couch and chew real quick? It's like when you were a kid and tried to hide it from your parents, only now I'm hiding it from my kids.
Anyway, I digress. I have decided this year that I have to get rid of the Halloween candy as quickly as possible as I don't even want to hear the constant whining and begging for candy. I intended to bring it into work (and maybe even share it....just kidding)...but I know he'll be on to it. I just don't know if I care yet or not.
I'm thinking of letting him trade his candy for a toy or book or something. But he is my kid. That may not be a good switch. lol
We're keeping TOT short this year though, which could be a good thing. Our church is having a harvest party that starts at 7, and we're looking forward to that.
Everything else is going good. Derrick is still really enjoying Bruegger's and continues to work about 70-75 hours a week, with the longest days on Tuesday and Wednesday, but at least for right now it works.

Oh...a couple of funny's to share before I go. Myles is trying to spread his love of "blue pants" with Gina. He now begs for her to be able to wear them too. I let him pick out her outfit today, and when she was dressed he said "Gina, you look fabulous".
I was laughing too hard to be scared of the fact my boy said "fabulous".

I've shared with you all multiple times about Gina's love for a good baby wipe. Cindy has to hide them at her house as she tries to be sneaky and take them if she's not looking.
So anyway, we were discussing Christmas with each other (I know, I know) and deciding if we were going to do a gift exchange with the kids. I told her Gina is at a hard age to buy for because how many dolls does one girl really need, ya know?
Cindy said, "I already decided I'm just getting her a 5 pack of wipes".

Too funny.
She was kidding of course, but she'd actually probably like it better than anything else we'll get.

Those kids. They are nothing if not entertaining.

Our newest "investment"

*****Update*****
Derrick got home from work and went to let Max out and he was NOT BARKING!! Yay! This is such a big deal! The kids and I took him for a walk since Derrick had to go back to work and he did great. And they all got some energy out.
Mom, this was our neighbor to the left, actually it was the brother of one of those guys. However, the main guy next door came over to apologize to Derrick and they talked for a while, and then as I was getting ready to start the walk the yeller man pulled up and got out of his car. I was a little nervous, but he actually apologized for the way he handled it too and admited essentially that he has temper problems. Ya think? But anyway, he was very nice to all of us (and Max), so at least there isn't that weirdness anymore.
And if Max can keep this up it's going to be so awesome! I really think he was smart enough to learn from just those two times!



I was just thinking that this post deserves pictures, so I'm going to try to take one tonight to post at a later time so you get the full effect.

But here's the story behind our latest purchase.
We had an unfortunate "run -in" with our neighbors early Sunday morning over Max's barking.
Now, as a sidenote, let me just say this.
I DO totally get being angry over a dog barking. Really. And we try to be very aware of it and sensitive to it, as Max does have a crazy loud bark. So I get that it could wake up a neighbor or be disturbing. And I completely understand wanting to let the dog owner know it's not acceptable.
But what I don't think is necessary is literally getting in Derrick's face and screaming the "f word" over and over while Myles is standing RIGHT there. Fortunately, as intuitive as he is, this hasn't raised any questions or use of the word...yet.
On this particular morning we had JUST let Max out, so he had to have come over on the first bark he heard.

Regardless, the situation obviously needs to be handled. We talked seriously again about giving him to a new family, especially with our impending move on the horizon. I just can't bare to see him put down if he ended up in a shelter, so I'd want to know he was going to a good home.

As a last resort we did a little research and decided to get a bark collar. That was a memorable trip to Petsmart, let me tell ya.
So, we got home and I (perhaps a little too excitedly) put Max in a room and shut the door. He barked. And barked. Nothing.

Ugh.

So I took it off, re-read the manual, repositioned it and tried again. I put him back in the room.
He barked.
Then he yelped. (yay it works. is that the wrong reaction? LOL)
He barked again.
Then he yelped again.


AND HE HASN'T BARKED SINCE!!!!!

I think it's really working!!! The hardest part of it is the little metal probes have to stay in the exact right spot to work and it shifts easily, but it does work if it stays in place.
This morning I let him out and then put him in his room and NO BARKING!
Last night the doorbell on the tv rang and he did bark twice. There was no yelping, but he did also stop barking.

So we'll see. But I already dislike him a little less. (I've never been the biggest fan of this dog).

So cross your fingers for us. I hope this is the answer. Because there is no way we can take him to an apartment with this bark. I think the next couple of days will be the true test to see if he learns to "out smart it" if it keeps slipping.

But if it works, it's the best investment we've made in a while.

Just updates....

The kids and I have all been suffering from allergies for the past week or so, and I'm happy to say that today I'm finally feeling a little better. It's been awful and making me miserable.

Myles has been doing great with his reward chart and things seem much calmer and less stressful in the Lawary household.
We had bought a package of balloons for Gina's birthday and he has since learned how to blow up a balloon all on his own. It's like his favorite toy now! (I guess I shoudln't mention that he also figured out that if you blow it up and let it go it will fly around the room, huh?)

Gina is still learning new words and new meanings for her existing words. I'm proud to say that today she pointed at Derrick's shoes on the floor and said "UP!!" and pointed to the closet. Uh, huh, that's my girl!!
She also knows "uh-oh" which is really cute, and is learning the word for balloon (since they often go flying past her). She is starting to call the dogs by names, in her own way. Max and Myles are "Ma" and My", she doesn't say much about Sophie.
She has also begun to love coloring. She's so funny laying on the floor on her belly with her feet up like a big kid.

Derrick is still in the training portion of his new job, but absolutely loving everything about it. It's been such a positive change for us.

And I never feel like I have exciting updates about myself. I do have a Beth Moore bible study meeting tonight, but I think I'll be missing it so the kids and I can catch up on our sleep. It's just been the normal routine for me!

80's in October?

Who would have thought? The weather this weekend has been beautiful!! Of course, as happens every year at this time, all of our allergies are going crazy. Cincinnati is known to be a bad place for allergy suffers, and it's holding true this year, but that didn't stop us from having fun.
The kids and I went to the pumpkin farm with mom and dad on Saturday, we had a quick visit on Sunday, and we saw Mom again today for a quick trip to the mall before Myles' appt with our favorite Dr. Joe.
Dr. Joe was so impressed with Myles and told me to make sure I give him a sticker when we get home. Myles was so nice and polite and answered all of his questions. Myles also got the flu mist, so now both kids are protected. And after getting the flu this march, I'll be sure to get my flu shot as well! (Do they do the mist for adults?????) lol
We got home just as a listing appt on the house was ending, and Gina took a short nap. We then went shopping, on an unsucessful mission for some new shirts for me, and then stopped to get pizza and came home to watch Toy Story. Myles has just discovered Buzz Lightyear and is all about him.
Myles has picture day at school tomorrow, and a field trip coming up, so I have all of his school forms filled out (pre-school is just homework for the parents!) and I am ready to sit down with my tissues and a snack and RELAX.

A disciple goes out

That was the theme of the message in church today. It's been a 4 part series about what discipleship means, and it's been interesting.
Today's lesson was a disciple goes out...to serve and be a part of the community. The Vineyard Church as a whole is very into giving back and doing things for the community...just as a way to share God's love.
So yesterday he was commenting on how many people go to church on Sunday's and play their role well, yet don't live it out during the week. Some even go on mission trips, yet come home and lead a life unchanged from that before they left. A disciple should go out into the community to serve, to help, and to share God's love.
So, when he said we were all "going out" today you could hear and feel that "whaattt???" vibe in the air.
But it was the neatest thing. They had already pre-arranged several "outings" in the community, and they cut the message short and asked each of us to join one.
The youth did a free car wash, there was a group handing out bags of candy at a local business, another passing out bottles of water, one pumping gas for people, and the group Derrick and I decided to join visited a local nursing home.
It was slightly outside my comfort zone, but I had to admit...this church practices what they preach. We just did a quick 30-45 minute visit and talked with people and handed out flowers. I can't say I have any especially fitting or touching stories to share about how we changed someone's life....but isn't that the point?
The people you meet are not by accident. God orchestrates all of that. He leads you down certain paths. It's about what YOU choose to do that makes the difference.
And you just never know when something you've done, or said, has a positive impact on someone else. That's why being a disciple is about talking the talk and walking the walk...every day.

Happy Birthday, Baby Girl!

Happy 2nd Birthday to my sweet baby girl. Hard to believe a full 2 years has passed. In some ways it seems like I just had you, and in other ways it's hard to imagine there was a time you weren't in my life.
When you were born October 9, 2006 at 8:11 am my life was forever enriched. You completed our family and filled that space in my heart that had always desired to have a daughter.
You are more than I could have ever dreamed you to be. You are sweet, funny, sassy, and smart. Your cheesy smile makes my day and your hugs and kisses melt my heart. I love the little game you play to "give kisses" when you just move you're mouth like you're chewing.
It makes me sad that you aren't my tiny little infant anymore, but I also look forward to continuing to watch you change and grow into the person God made you to be.
You are such a blessing to everyone that knows you and I know you are going to do great things.
I love you sweet girl.

Friday Friday!!

Yay!!
I'm just glad this week is over. It's been a long one it seems.

Myles has a reward chart started and for every 10 stickers he gets he earns one-on-one time with one of us to do something special. We started last week and he's up to 9 stickers, so I bet this weekend we'll be having some special time.

For some reason my computer at home is not recognizing the mouse anymore and I've tried a new one with no luck, so I may not be online all weekend if I can't get that figured out.

So if you don't hear from me, that's why.

On Monday I plan on taking the kids to the mall and getting Gina's 2 year pictures taken, so wish me luck with that. It seems like that's always a fiasco.

We had another showing on the house today and I did call and chat with the real estate agent to get an update from her, and everything seems to be proceeding fairly well, considering the process. It is depressing to consider what the house could sell for, but I know that's also just a sign of the times. It's amazing when we drive home how many houses are for sale just on our street, let alone the neighborhood.

Derrick's job is still going really well though, and for us personally, things are really beginning to fall into place and come together.

Hope you all have a good weekend. I'll chat with you Tuesday if I can't get the home computer figured out!

See ya!

Saying hello

I can't believe it's been so long since I've updated. It doesn't feel like it's been that long.
Guess time flies when you're having fun. Let's see. What's new with all of us:

Me-not much new. Working on getting things "organized". I put a rewards chart together for Myles that is going great, we are doing all of the details in terms of getting our new finances and budget together (opening savings accounts, filling out paperwork to start his insurance and cancel mine, etc), and I haven't done even one days worth of homework for the bible study that meets again tomorrow. Still trying to recruit new Avon customers. lol

Derrick-has completed one week at his new job and loves it. The people are great-very nice, very helpful, just a much better environment. Staying busy with both jobs and enjoying a lot more quality family time together.

Myles-enjoying school. He's been doing great and really seems to like it. Tomorrow is show and tell and they are bringing something that starts with the letter L. Thanks to g-ma, we thought of the idea of bringing Lincoln Logs, although he heard her say Lego's and is set on that and he doesn't have any.
He's really responding to his rewards chart and it's making a difference. We just have to work on getting him a little more consistent with eating and sleeping. His doctor would like to see him return to occupational therapy for the sensory issues, but to a different treatment facility (which unfortunately isn't covered by our insurance). So we'll see about that.
He loves to paint and is working on writing his name.

Gina-getting big. Seriously. I looked at her today as I was dressing her and had one of those "when did you get so big" moments. She has really been enjoying baby dolls, barbies and "pretend mommy" toys...strollers, etc. But her favorite toy of all is still wipes.
She's learning new words...on, in, buckle, bad (heard me say it to Max ..I promise), bath, out..that's all I can think of. She is just super sweet and I can't believe it's only a week until her 2nd birthday!!
Oh...and she's not a fan of this colder weather we've been having in the mornings...she shakes like a leaf when we're getting in the car!

I think that's about it. Things are going remarkably well and surprisingly calm over all. It's such a nice change of pace.

Random Thoughts

Random thoughts for a random day. Derrick's first day went really well. Great actually. He worked 5-2 and then 3-9. Better him than me is all I can say! I don't know if I could do it!
Today we have another long day. He works until 3 and then I'm leaving early to take Myles to an appt. at 4:30. So we'll swing by and pick up Gina and bring her to daddy while we do that.
Then I have my second night of bible study tonight at 6. Hopefully I don't miss much, if any of that. It was cancelled last week due to the power outages and I missed a big part of it the week before that.
I'm looking forward to that. To the fellowship time it brings and to a time dedicated to getting closer to God.
It's funny, these last couple of days we've had some really postive changes, yet I just feel, well, blah. I've had some struggles lately with Myles and some things going on with work have just left me feeling sort of low and defensive. Misunderstood. I think we all have times like that.
The good part is I know God is with me, and I know I can turn this all over to him. I know that through him I can be restored, re-energized, and lifted up. It's just a matter of taking the time to lower the wall I've built around myself and spend some much needed time with him.
I am having some revelations about myself through this expereince though. I've realized the past few months have made me skeptical. I'm cautious to fully accept good news for fear that there is a "catch". I've become doubtful of people and less trusting.
This is such a crazy time in our world with everything happening in the economy, the potential bailout plan, etc it feels like everything is just a little haywire.
What I've realized though is I kept thinking things would be smoother "when". When Derrick found a job. When we settled on an apartment. When we got moved. When the house is settled. Now that one of those "whens" has happened I think I'm realizing that there will always be more.
Always something else left undone or uncertain. That's why it's even more important to enjoy every season in life and not let anyone steal our joy, right?
Somehow today just feels like it should be a cloudy, cold, grey day so that I could have stayed home and in bed all day just curled up and licking my wounds, but it's a beautiful sunny day today.
So, I think I'll spend some time at lunch talking to God and getting my thoughts together.....

Wednesday is the day!!!

Wednesday is Derrick's first day on the job.




Let's just all be silent for a moment and reflect on the awesomeness of that statement.


Huge exhale.


Enough said.

What a day and TMJ

We had a hectic day yesterday. Myles and I had dentist appointments together. Loads of fun there, huh?
He actually did really well. Got right in the chair and was an AWESOME patient. I was a proud mom. Unfortunately, he does have two cavities. How embarassing. She did tell me though that we could not have prevented them, it is just his anatomy and the way his teeth are. That made me feel slightly better.
Me on the other hand? I'm sure I set o record of some sort, but not the kind you want to set. I have a mouth FULL of cavities. None can be sen or felt yet, they are all in between my teeth. And it's from not flossing. I'm sorry, but I HATE flossing. BUT, the fact I now have an 1800 dollar dental bill heading my way when I get this work done may be just what I need to change my mind about that. Thank GOD Derrick's job offers dental insurance. That will help. But when you need to make three appointments to go back and get fillings done, it is NOT a good sign.
ANd, my TMJ has ben bothering me a lot lately. I didn't even know I hsad it until a few years ago, but I've bee having a lot of jaw pain and getting a lot of headaches lately. Not cool. And "opening wide" for 45 minutes while my teeth were being cleaned did not help. She did give me a couple of suggestions, but basically said I'd just need to see someone that specializes in that area as it can be very complicated.
I don't know why it hasn't bothered me until recently, but maybe it';s like everything in life. Once you start getting older everything hurts worse. lol
Mom... Dad....which one of you can I blame bad teeth and TMJ on?? Just kidding!!!
After that Derrick and I had a few erronds to run. It was torture. I wonder if I left one of my kids out in public one day if they'd know how to find their way home. Oh wait. Did I just say that??
Goodness gracious they can drive me crazy though. I love them dearly, but they are like oil and water. They do not mix. Separately they are the best kids you could hope to meet. Together?? Together they get left with their daddy a lot while I go to a different part of the store and act like I don't know any of them! lol
If I could just get Gina to stop shouting mommy every time she sees me I might be able to pull it off. The little rascal.
AS soon as we got home Derrick had to go to work. By the time I got dinner and laundry done I had HAD it. That was the kind of day you need to go look at them while they are sleeping and seem so cute and peaceful.

So, Outback is OUT!

I know I'm not the only one that has noticed that this restaurant is ALWAYS crowded. No matter when you go. So it has to be good, right?
I received a gift certificate at work a few months back to go. Derrick and I decided that we would hold on to it until he got a job, and then we would go together and celebrate. Without the kids.
BUT, you all know me too well for that, right?
We did wait until he had a job, but...I pushed him into going last Friday...the day we found out. And, it was awful. Really. We waited forever, got a terrible server, and then waited forever again for our food. When it did come it was all hard, overcooked and just gross. Even Gina pushed it away and said yuck. You know it's bad when she won't even eat it. She's like Mikey. She'll eat anything.
The manager ended up comping our entire meal (well, minus my Wallabe Darned...but that was so good it was okay). So, we still had the gift certificate to use. So, tonight I pushed Derrick into going again and just choosing a different location. So we went to the one in Northagte instead.
It started out good. No wait, great server. But then Gina's diaper leaked. Why does this ONLY happen in public and never at home? I mean really?? So I sent Derrick out to the car for the diaper bag (at least we had it) and took Gna to the bathroom , with Myles tagging along. Of course.
So we get in the bathroom and everything goes pitch black. No one seems to notice but me, and Myles and I'm wondering why no one else seems to notice. Isn't that a pretty big thing??
So we finish up our business in the dark (good time) and go out to the restaurant. They have lost power. Seriously folks.
At this point we only have our drinks and the bloomin Onion. (And I didn't even get my Wallabe Darned this time!!!) All of the other servers are just telling their tables that they can leave...even the ones sthat have clearly eated and were ready to pay. But not our server. She was no where to be found. When we do find her she tells me she'll manually add up the bill and be back to us. ???? Seriously? for a Coke Myles spilled on the way to the bathroom, and a glass of water and an appetizer we didn't get to eat)SO I told her we had a gift card, could she even ring it up? She said if they couldn't she could manually take down the information and then ring it in when the power did come up.
Honestly.
So the rest of the story is between me, Derrick and God, and I will just leave the ended up to your imagination so it's not in writing. lol
Anyone want a 44 dollar gift card to Outback??? (yes, my drink cost 6 dollars, and I'd do it again!!!) (And yes, I do still have it for the full amount minus the drink I got the first time).
Guess that kind of gives away the ending, huh? lol

Happy Friday!

We're looking forward to the weekend! Derrick is home with the kids today for what could be their last day of "boy time" (with only cute little girls welcome to join them) as he starts his job this Wednesday. After that he'll most likely be off on Sunday's and Monday's, so the kids will start going to the sitters all 4 days (Tues-Fri).
He was going to take them to the zoo, but I think I made him nervous with all my questions regarding his preparedness to do that. I think instead he has decided to take them to Cincinnati Mills where they get to play in the playland, and then they go to the movie theater and Myles plays a few of the games inside. Myles loves it and looks forward to it all week. He collects quarters all week and keeps them in a wallet, and this morning he made sure he asked me where his wallet is...he knows what the day has in store for him!
Plus, I got a fully cooked breakfast before I left! While I do frozen french toast or pancakes for breakfast (if even that) when I have the kids, Derrick always cooks. Eggs, bacon and toast! But usually it's long after I'm gone and I miss out.
But, since Myles found my phone this morning at 5 am and figured out how to use the speed dial function, he called Derrick and my mom to see if they were up. (Sorry mom)! So, Derrick got up early and started cooking, and I got to join them! And I left just in time....just as the kids were starting to fuss at each other!
I think little boys come preprogrammed to know how to irritate the heck out of their sisters. It's amazing.
The other day I got all over Myles for pestering Gina, and Derrick asked why I was being so harsh with him. I told him I was determined to protect her from the big brother harassment! lol He does things just to annoy her, and he does a good job at it.
That being said, maybe Derrick is getting off lucky by not watching them one day a week. !!! :)
So now I'm at work and it is S L O W!!!! No one is here. There's just a few of us, and I already know it's going to be a long day!!!
Tomorrow we have a showing on our house (yay!), and then I'm not sure what we'll do. But we're trying to squeeze in as much family time as we can as once Derrick starts his new job he'll be working 70 hours a week!
Hope you are all having a good friday!!!

Still doing our happy dance!

We're still so excited that
DERRICK GOT A JOB!!!!

YAY!!


Things have been a little hectic here with lots going on. I was too nervous to update or even say anything all week last week. We knew it was getting close and I think I wanted it even more than Derrick, if that's possible.

We had our second meeting for our Bible Study last week, and I also had a great talk with our pastor. It was totally unplanned, but very helpful and very cool the way it came about. I think God set it up for us. I ended up missing a big portion of the meeting, but I think it was worth it.
We have our third meeting tomorrow.
Myles finally goes back to school tomorrow after the strong wind storm we had here knocked out everyone's power for so long.

We feel a huge sense of relief, and I am slowly starting to see the plan God has layed out for us. This was the first big piece of the puzzle, and now we can start putting the rest of it together. Slowly but surely we're changing our entire lives for the better.

It's been a long day and night though, and I am ready for bed. Hope you all had a good day!

And on a lighter note....

(maybe this should be under my last post)....
Here are some more fun things happening:
Myles is asleep for the night. At 6 pm. I think the start of school has worn him out.
Gina has been saying "night night" for a while, so I'm gonna go play with her alone (rare circumstance) and then put her to bed.
Derrick is working til 1 am.
Do you know what that will mean? It will be quiet! No noise!! I have never been so sensitive and aware of noise as I have been since I had two kids. Quiet used to go unnoticed to me, or maybe even seem eery. Now I love it. The sound of nothing!!!
Myles has started eating for Cindy again. Finally. It's been a couple months since he's had lunch. But the last two days he ate without gagging.
He's learning the letter O in school and the numbers 0 and 1. He made an octopus yesterday and is looking forward to going back.
Tomorrow is my second night of the Beth Moore bible study and I have all of my "homework" done.
Okay...I'm off to play, do night night and sit alone in a dark room listening to nothing. lol Just kidding. Sort of.

Here is my prayer for tonight.

Or maybe it's just more of a question for you all. Just something I'm struggling with in my heart and thought I'd throw out to you.
When the bible tells us that we need to have complete faith and trust in God, and we really want to do that, yet we still find ourselves asking questions and feeling anxious, how do we rectify that?
How do we get ourselves to the point that we trust in God's plan, his timing, and realize that he has control over everything and stop questioning "what if's" and "whys" and whens"?
Is that something that even people much further down the spiritual journey path continue to work on, or at some point does it just "click"?
It's so easy to do when things are going well, right? Although maybe that's not even the case. How often do we really stop to praise God and thank him for all of the things that do go well in our lives? Or do we just accept it, not even realizing we've just been blessed and go one with our daily routine?
When things feel uncertain or rocky though, it's so easy to question what the plan is and how things will work out. It's true in so many circumstances. Obviously it fits in our case with Derrick looking for a job, and our house being for sale, but that's just one small example.
Why is it so easy to just accept the good things in life with little realization or acknowledgment that it even happened, yet the uncertain or seemingly negative things seem like such a "crisis"?
If we truly believe that our maker holds us in the palm of his hand, that he is the shelter right by our side, and that he guides every step we take along our journey, why do we forsake that in hard times, and fall back on old ways of doubt and fear?
It seems to me as though it would be like holding on to a life preserver while walking on dry, safe land, but panicking and throwing it aside when you get in deep water? Isn't that when we need to hold on the tightest?
For God *is* our life preserver, isn't he? So why do we cast him aside and start feeling negative about the path we're on just because it isn't all smooth sailing?

God, I ask you to hold on to me even during the times I unconciously am trying to cast you aside. Please know that I want to grow with you and learn to trust you during good times and bad. Help me learn to recognize and praise you for the good things in life, and to look at anything I may view as negative through different eyes.
I know that through you anything is possible. Even something that may seem impossible to us.

On this 7th anniversary of the eve of 9/11 please be with all of those that were affected by that tragic day, and with everyone that has since been affected by the after effects.
God, I know you can take the bad things this world throws at us and use them for good. Help us all to see that good a little more often, God.

What will you be able to say?

That is a question I've been thinking about since we left church. It was another upbeat and inspirational service with another singer who nearly had me in tears with her voice and her message.
And the pastor was discussing that he wants this church, our church, to be about changing lives. To get involved with each other to "do life" and make it better...and inspire real changes.
But considering the bible says we were not put here to be served, but to serve, it's not just about those of us inside the church. It's about reaching out to others and helping to change their lives.
So, one day when you're hanging out with Jesus and he asks you "what did you do with your time on earth", what will you be able to say??
If you're anything like me, it made me realize that much like the song that was sung today said "I've wasted so much time, but I want to turn it all around".
I want to set a vision for my life...who I'd like to be as a wife and a mother, what I believe success is, and launch a plan to get there. I want to not be afraid to try something "in case it doesn't work". I don't want to believe the lies the enemy tells me. My eyes are slowly opening to what happiness means to me, and I want to learn to enjoy every minute. I'm going to stop saying I'll "try" to do something and say I *will* do something. You either do or you do not. There is no try. Even if you fail, you still did it.
As I was sitting there listening, I realized I don't want to limit myself to doing something a specific way or being a certain way because that's how someone else did it. It doesn't matter how our friends, our neighbors, our siblings, our parents, or anyone else does something. We don't need to parent the same way, be a spouse the same way, or reach for the same level of success. We are all different...we don't get involved in the same things, we don't value the same things, we don't have the same desires. God made each of us unique, and success is going to look differently for each of us. Success as a parent, success as an employee, success as a spouse, and success as an individual. Once we let go of the way "it should be" and "the way it was" and embrace the individuality God gifted all of us with, we can begin to be truly happy.
Is it me, or is that such a relief? A huge weight off my shoulders I didn't even realize I was carrying. I know I can't be the only one that tries to do something in some way just because someone else is doing it or because that's they only way I've seen it done.
The girl that came to church today travels all over singing. She was sharing her story, about how she was raised the daughter of a minister and they lived pretty meagerly. However, she happened to marry someone very successful financially. He owned his own car dealership. But one day they felt a calling to do something different. And because of that calling, he sold his car dealership, they sold their big house, and they now run a group for underprivillages kids age 9-12. She gives them voice lessons and her husband spends time with the boys teaching them about character. In fact, he went from owning his own car dealership to detailing cars to survive. He recently turned down a 150K dollar job offer because they wouldn't be able to continue their mission.
Yet, other people probably viewed them as successful before. I'm sure a lot of people thought they were crazy when they sold everything and again when he turned down that job. But, contrary to what we hear on earth think, money isn't what makes you successful.
Think about it...when they get to meet Jesus and he asks them what they did with their time...think about what a story they will have. God has blessed them for what they have done and the sacrifices they have made, and they are happier now than ever.
The pastor today was talking about his father who is also a pastor and he was talking about how different their "styles" are. He could have tried to go out and preach the way his father did, but God didn't give him the same personality and abilities. He gave him his own unique spiritual gifts. Dorrien's (our pastor's) goal is to get everyone involved because like anything, you get out of it what you put into it. He is all about inspiring change in every body's life.
I was doing looking at the church website this weekend and realized he got the calling to plant his own church in October 2006. Exactly when Gina was born. Interesting.
So...what are your gifts? Are you using them? Or are you just doing things they way you think they "should be done"? How will you answer Jesus' question???

A fun day!

So we decided to go downtown today and just hang out. It was perfect weather for it...not too hot or humid. Both of the kids really enjoyed it, and so did we. We then went to Sonic for dinner. Myles got such a kick out of them wearing roller skates.
It's so fun to share things you enjoy with your kids and to see them through their eyes.
Tomorrow we have church, grocery shopping and cleaning to do, but we're making the most of our family time while we still have our weekends free.
I have a few cute pictures, but will have to wait to share those until I can get them downloaded.
Hope you're all having a fun weekend too!!

A call from Myles' teacher

Myles' teacher called me tonight to discuss his first day and his sensory integration issues. Her youngest son (now grown) has the same thing, so it was very interesting to talk to her, and nice to know his teacher really "gets it".
Myles told her he was hungry today, and she was concerned about just how hungry he acted. Unfortunately he's still having issues eating, but it gave me the chance to discuss that with her and get her experienced point of view.
I think she's going to be really good for him, and I also feel very confident that he is yearning for the routine and structure school brings to his life. It brings a whole new set of things for him to worry about, but at the same time, I'm hoping it gets him back on track.
He and I talked tonight about making him a calendar, and we really need to do that. It helps him to know the plan.
This teacher doesn't seem as "sweet and tender" as Mrs. Stewart was (and who knows, maybe we'll just always have a soft spot for her as his first teacher), but I think she is his teacher for a reason. She isn't who he was initially assigned to, but due to a few events (that I know happened for a reason) he was changed to her class.
I know she's very interested in communicating with me and working as a team to discuss any issues that may arise at school. Although she'll probably rarely see any, it's nice to know she understands first hand what SID is all about.

First night of bible study

I joined a Beth Moore bible study through church, and tonight was the first night. It went well, and I think I'll like it and get a lot out of it. It's about 18 or 19 people, so bigger than I thought.
I ended up having to leave early though because Gina drank too much before we left and totally flooded her diaper and I didn't have one with me. Poor planner, I know. I didn't miss too much though.
I'm looking forward to getting to know everyone better, learning more, and growing closer to God.
It's my first small group experience, so I'm just proud of myself for stepping outside of my comfort zone.

I have to say that God has been really good to us. I've already learned and grown so much as a person, as a christian, and as a wife and mother. We're not even totally "out of" our situation yet, but I already know that we were meant to go trough it and I'm so happy we have. I already know things will be so much better for us and it will forever have a positive impact on my life. We received a huge blessing yesterday, and it just proved what I alreay know. That the things that are meant to happen will and that they happen when they are supposed to. I am a better, more confident, more wise, more peaceful, more faithful person, and that is worth everything we've gone through and more.

I'm not sure who the stupid one is here...

I took the kids to McDonald's to play tonight because it's 95 outside and feels hotter in the house.
So, I decided to get the kids icecream. They don't like the cones, they'd rather have it in a dish. Now granted, in hindsight, the way I ordered it may be confusing, but I've never had issues before.
I walked away in shock.

I ordered two kiddie cones in a dish (an oxymoron, I know, but it made sense to me)
The dude took two ice cream cones, filled them up, and then placed both cones in a sundae dish.

Yes, I guess that is technically, two kiddie cones in a dish. lol

I didn't have the heart to say anything, besides ask for a spoon

Gina's new words....

I'm posting this more for a memory for later than anything, but thought I'd share some of her new words.
The most appropriate...bite. That girl is always hungry.
Hot. She's been saying that a lot lately.
Side...for outside.
Walk. She says this when I get her out of the car and start to carry her. She squirms and says "walk".
Not sure if I had this on the list or not yet, but another big one...MINE. (We knew it was coming).
Up (when she wants on furniture, not to be carried...she always wants to walk).
Wipe. She is in love with wipes.

She's also getting very into her hair. She doesn't like me to brush it (I swear her hair tangles so bad), but she thinks she is the STUFF when I put a barette in it and walks around showing it to all of us.

She knows eyes, nose, mouth, ears, hair, feet, hands. When you ask her where her eyes are, she bats them at you. It gets me everytime.

She's still a cleaner. She picks our shoes up when we take them off and puts them in the closet. Yesterday when we were getting ready to go she knocked a picture of the table. She had to go back to pick it up and put it back before we left. (She's just like her name sake).

Can't believe my sweet baby is almost 2.

Meet the Teacher

We had Myles' Meet the Teacher last night for preschool. His teacher is Mrs. Stromenger, and the aide is Mrs. Hubbard. He seemed to do well, maybe just a bit shy and akward. I had to bring Gina with me though and she loved it. She is the opposite of Myles socially.
It's a bit overwhelming with all the paperwork we received and feeling like there is so much to do, but I think it'll be good for him to get back on track. He goes for one hour on Thursday, and then from 12:30-3 every Tuesday and Thursday.
I can't believe it's the last year before Kindergarten!! And really, if it wasn't for his late birthday, he'd already be there. Time goes so fast.

Cheyenne, Cindy's daughter, lost her first tooth over the weekend and starts Kindergarten this Friday. It was a big (and sort of sad) week for Cindy. And the fact she's only 6 months older than Myles is a reality check to me. When they were babies 6 months seemed like so much, but not now.

The teachers did have a little "gift bag" for each of the kids with a pencil and note pad and his favorite...bubbles...so that was a big hit. He's already been for a year, so I don't know why it's making me nervous...I feel like it's my first day of school all over again. New school years always did make me nervous...I guess it's no different now that I'm the parent.

A silly story about last night...mom had asked Myles to call him when he got home. So he knows how to do that by himself now because her number is programmed as a speed dial in my cell phone. Well, Mom was away from her phone, so dad answered.

Myles got the most disappointed look on his face and said "I didn't call you" and hung up. Not nice, I know....but sort of funny the way it happened. No one can replace his G-ma. Not even Grandpa.

And he strikes again....

Myles: Do you like how it's so sunny and pretty and warm out today?
Me: Yes, I do.
Myles: I thought you would.
Me: Yup, it makes me happy when the weather is like this.
Myles: Then why have you been yelling at me all day?

To smack him or hug him???

A conversation with Myles

Myles: (totally out of the blue) How long was I in heaven with God before I was born?
Me: I don't know, Myles.
Him: Why don't you ever know anything?
M: Because you ask complicated questions for a four year old. Maybe we'll just have to ask God when we get to see him again some day.
H: I need to go talk to God now.
M: Why is that?
H: I need to tell him to quit making it rain on me.
M: Well, it's not just about you, sweetie. That's his way of watering things and making sure they grass and trees and flowers have enough water.
H: Why, so they can grow?
M: yes, exactly.
H: Well, why do you want it to grow? Everytime the grass grows daddy just has to cut it.

And that, my friends, is the simple logic of a four-year old!

A must share

This girl goes to our church and is part of our worship band. Today we were blessed with a solo she performed of Give it to Jesus, and I had to share. It is so amazing.
I'm trying to get the lyrics copied here, but in the meantime, take a listen.

http://www.arethachapman.com/


EDIT:--- I have done a lot of searching and have not been able to find the lyrics. However, I have found out that she does have her own CD out, and the song I mentioned is even on Itunes. I highly recommend checking her out!

Flat tire

That's what the Malibu has. Derrick worked until 1am last night, had a 9 am interview in Mason that lasted a full two hours, and then they sent him to go visit a store in Clilfton. He was there for a while and came home to change and come into work for the night. As he went to leave he saw the Malibu had a flat.
Please pray and keep your fingers crossed it can be repaired and doesn't need to be replaced.
It's been quite a busy day (week) and will only continue...tomorrow is the weekly boy time (which Gina is allowed to take part in), so he's home with the kids and will be up just a few short hours after he finally falls asleep to take care of the dynamic duo all day. Fortunately for him, he can run on much less sleep than I can.
Reality TV has nothing on our lives. :)

Duct Tape

Yes, that is what the sitter had to resort to at nap time. She had to put a piece of duct tape over the tabs of Gina's diaper so she couldn't get it off.
Gina wasn't happy, but she did stay fully clothed.
Let's just hope she outgrows this love of being naked.

The latest "episodes" with the kids

Gina. Oh, Gina.
Let me just say that my kids are so much like me. I don't know if that's good or not, but they both inherited different parts of my personality (and not necessarily the best parts).

Gina...the sweet, smart, loving, funny girl. She hates to upset you, but I think she does enjoy teasing you. She will cry if she thinks you're angry, but she sure does find new ways to test us.
The "napping issues" continued today as the kids returned to Cindy's. No playing with the contents of her diaper, no lipstick, no falling in a hamper. Just a totally naked Gina giggling and laughing, and laying on a soaked blanket.
Yes...totally naked. She took off all of her clothes...shirt, shorts and diaper...with no help. How does she do this? And why? I guess we'll be investing in some onesies with snaps and see if little Houdini gets out of that.

She is also learning all of her body parts...eyes, ears, nose, mouth, feet, etc. She's picked it up so quickly and loves that she has found another way to be center of attention and make us laugh. I want her to stay my baby forever, but seeing what this girl becomes will make it worth letting her grow up.

Myles. Sweet, silly, smart, Myles. He has inherited my food issues. When he's having a lot of issues with his SI or anxiety, he'll only eat certain textures...smooth. That means applesauce, yogurt, pancakes, bologna. He gags on food (always has) and his food issues have gotten increasingly worse at the sitters (this happens in phases, but this is the longest yet) to the point where he just cries through lunch and refuses to eat anything. For weeks. Which wouldn't be such a big deal if he wasn't also like me in that when he gets tired or hungry he is CRANKY. There is a point in which you basically have to force him to eat to switch his mood around. He cries at night worried about what he'll have to eat the next day. He is a little kid with a lot of anxiety, and food is one of his main sensory issues. And about the only thing he's able to control at this point in his life.

This morning I caught him in the bathroom, sitting on the vanity, and "doing" his hair. He wanted it spikey. He told me when it dries it will fall and he won't like it like that so he'll have to re-wet it. Oh my. Do they really get concerned about their looks at 4?
And where does he get this memory??? Yesterday Derrick and I had to go to the mall to run and errand. On the way there he asked where we were going and I told him. He says...oh yes. I remember the mall. They have shiny floors, but that's okay. I used to be scared of the shiny floor...I thought I would fall, but I'm much braver now, so it's okay". Uh...alrighty then. Kid hasn't been to the mall in a LONG time. But he did always hate the floors.

It's so funny how Myles and Gina are so similar yet so different, even at a young age. I love watching them grow and develop and learn. I love seeing them change each day. They are such a blessing.

A sign I saw and loved...

When Derrick and I were headed to the grocery store over the weekend, I saw a church sign that read...
God will always do his part.
But you have to do yours first.

I loved that. It put into words what I already knew, but in simple, down-to-earth terms that summarize it so well.
It was really comforting to me, because it gave me the opportunity to realize that Derrick and I ARE doing our part to make significant changes in our life, and that the rest is up to God and will happen when it's meant to happen.
We can't just sit back and think God is going to work miracles in ourlife if we do nothing for ourselves.
Derrick has several things "in the works" in terms of the job hunt, and that contines to give us hope. He's been staying so busy and working so hard that we know it's just a matter of timing. Already, as he's continued the interviewing process, we've realized that we are glad certain job offers didn't come through. I know he won't get an offer until it's the right one, and then I know everything will make sense.
Same thing applies to the house. I sometimes wonder if it will sell, how things will work out, etc. BUT I am so comforted by the fact that I can RELAX. I know that we have done our part by finding a real estate agent, getting it cleaned up and decluttered, etc, and that now it's up to God. We have done the work that will allow the right outcome to occur. There's not much more we can do. It's up to God and if it's meant to happen it will. We did have an investor put in a (ridiculously low) offer on the house, and have another showing scheduled. I know what happens is what is meant to happen, and that gives me great peace.
I begin to realize more each day that these short term trials are teaching us life long lessons and we are only going to be better off for having gone through them.

I will wait

This song was sung at church today and it really touched me. I thought I'd share the lyrics with you all. It's never the same to read them as it is to hear them beautifully sung, but hopefully you get the gist.

I will wait for you, Jesus
You're the sun in my horizon
All my hopes in you, Jesus
I can see you now arising
(repeat)
There's a wall that stands in front of me
That I know I just can't climb
And like an eagle you will carry me
Its just a matter of the time
I will wait for you, Jesus
You're the son in my horizon
All my hopes in you, Jesus
I can see you now arising
Evil armies all around me
I believe in the word that promises me
So I will wait another day
I will wait for you, Jesus
You're the son in my horizon
All my hopes in you, Jesus
I can see you now arising
(repeat)
I will wait for you
Oh I will wait for you
Oh the doubt may try to come in
The disillusions may try to come in
I believe oh Lord (x3)
In the word that you promised (x3)
I believe it will not end
I believe it will not go
I will wait for you, Jesus
You're the son in my horizon
All my hopes in you, Jesus
I can see you now arising

A trip to the zoo

We went to the zoo yesterday and really enjoyed it. We haven't been able to go like we would like to.
It was the first time that Myles was able to walk the whole thing, so being a mommy, I realized how big he's getting.
It was so much fun as he was actually interested in the animals, really wanted to see them and know about them.
Everything was good until the end when we exited the front of the zoo and walked down to the parking lot before we remembered we actually parked in the back of the zoo. Ugh.
So we walked all the way around. Myles ended up in the stroller and Gina on our shoulders. That's a long walk. Especially when you're hot and tired and the kid's cups have long since been empty. Whew. We really need to plan these things better.
But we had such a fun family weekend between Parky's Farm, the zoo, and Harbin Park. We're trying to spend as much time together as we can as Derrick is getting a second job that will have him working all weekend, so we won't see much of him since he already works nights. But we all had a good time and made a lot of memories.

A week of new adventures for the kids

Cindy, our regular sitter, is having shoulder surgery this week. So my friend Cassie is watching the kids.
Myles knew all about it, and was happy to go this morning. He started talking to her, telling her everything she wanted to know and then some, so I left feeling good.
She decided to take the kids over to her parents house, which is closer to my work, so I could pick them up there.
When I got there all 4 kids (her 2 included) were hanging outside eating flav-r-ice and loving it.
Myles then started showing me her parents inground pool. He told me they had a board and he jumped off it.
What???
So I looked at Cassie, and yup, sure enough while Gina was sleeping she took the kids swimming. Abbey, her sister, came over as well. They put a floaty bathing suit on Myles and he JUMPED OFF THE DIVING BOARD. 4 TIMES!!!!!!!!!!!!
Holy cow.
She said he doggy paddled from one end of the pool to the next.
My boy. Really? Really!!! Wow!
He came home grabbed one of my beloved circus peanuts (see below) (and yes, my kids now love them too) and walked back to his room.
After a few minutes we wondered what was up.
We found him, sound asleep with one and a half circus peanuts next to him.
He's down for the night. Poor guy had a big day.
I just hope he doesn't remember he had circus peanuts with him when he wakes up. Because they aren't there anymore.

So I have an addiction

I guess the first step is admitting it, right?

It started a couple of months ago when I saw something I hadn't seen in years. I was curious. I decided to purchase some and see if they tasted the same.
They did.
Then I started wanting them more often.
Now I'm making sneaky purchases and hiding it from the kids.
But they caught me. And now they want some.
And I don't want to share.
Most people think it's so gross, and it is, but I can't help it.

I love these things and need to have them on a regular basis.
When I couldn't find them at my regular "spot" this week and I got a little panicky, I knew I had a problem.

Think there's any type of support group for weaning yourself off these??

An awesome day at Parky's Farm

We all went to Parky's Farm tody, for the first time this summer. It was so much fun.
Myles got to ride a pony, which he loved and had no problems with. Not scared at all and didn't want us walking with him. What a change from previous summers!
We then went to the playbarn and he was diving in the ball pit, going down the slides, climing on everything, etc. Again, what a change from when he was TERRIFIED of the ball pit!
There is a wooden ramp in part of the playbarn that held Gina's attention the whole time. She just kept walking down it and then back up, and was so proud. She likes doing silly things like that...stepping from the curb to the ground, up and down steps, etc. She even got in the ball pit. She wasn't real sure at first, but she stayed in until it got too rambunctious in there for her.
We also went to the petting zoo area. Myles got to feed a goat and brush several of them. He also pet a sheep and a bunny rabbit. So did Gina. It was funny to see how she reacted to the different feeling of their coats. Myles really liked it and had such a good time. He even wanted to go back to the playbarn to go through this "carrot maze" they had, which is something he wouldn't have even considered not long ago.
And what cracked me up is, the last time we were there was for Halloween, when they have a big event. Well, as part of that, they did a magic show. AS we were pulling up to Parky's Farm Myles asked if he could go see the magic show again. I couldn't believe he recognized the place and remembered that...shoot, I had almost forgotten about it!
Myles really wanted to ride the wagon, but we told him a little white lie, and told him that today it was just for adults but we'd come back on a kid day and do that. He's already asking to go back tomorrow!
It was a fun day! Once I'm able to upload pictures at work I'll share some of them with you.

The latest Gina napping "incident"

When we put Gina down for a nap this afternoon, I decided to take one myself. It didn't seem like long later I awake to Derrick telling me to get up quick, it's an emergency. You guys know I don't wake up easily or happily when sleep is cut short. So I groggily get up to see what's going on.
I walk into Gina's room and see her bed, babies, toys, and wall covered in what Derrick thought for sure was blood. It was all over her shirt, face, neck, etc. I think he was panicking.
I had a mommy instinct telling me it wasn't blood, but I wasn't sure what it was until I spotted an empty lipstick container on the floor.
How she got it or found a way to smuggle it into her crib, I don't know. Derrick sure was relived though. He thought she had hit her head on the side of the crib.
So needless to see we now have even more laundry and they got an extra bath today.

She is becoming quite the little trouble maker. Cindy told me when I picked her up on Thursday that when she went in to get Gina up from her nap that day she found Gina, with her shorts still on, but her diaper off, and playing in a huge mess. The girl undid the tabs on her diaper and slid it off through the leg hole of her shorts. Cindy had that problem with both of her girls when they were little, but I have to say this is unchartered territory for us.

TGIF

It's the end of a long, but productive week, and I'm looking forward to the weekend.
Derrick got a lot accomplished on the job search front and we're just feeling more confident everyday that our time is coming.
He's been super busy all week and has had very long days between interviews, appointments, and working, but he's home with the kids today, and I'm sure they'll have a good time.
Last week they went to the mall to hang out and play. We'll see if today holds any adventures for them.
He is trying to suffer through the pain he's having right now associated with two roots in his mouth being exposed. He goes on Monday to get them pulled. I feel bad for him because I know it's painful, and there's not a lot he can do about it.
Myles' swim lessons wrapped up this week. He did really well and seemed to really enjoy them. We'll probably try to get him signed up for something else at the Y soon.
Gina is still just Gina. She has mastered the work MINE. She also has the role of annoying little sister down pat. She has to do everything Myles does, play with everything he wants to play with, eat everything he eats, etc. Of course she wouldn't want anything to do with it if he didn't have it, but that's the annoying part.
She is obsessed with baby wipes and everytime we change her she reaches for one and says "my wipe". Of course she just wants to drop it on the floor and then ask for another one.
This morning I caught her with her shampoo bottle. I took it from her and said "yuck". She actually had the nerve to swipe at me and say "mine"! She then saw her cup, which she calls a "bubby" (don't ask) sitting there and said very sassily, "MY bubby". She's a little girl with a big attitude.
I'm looking forward to hopefully a relaxing weekend with the family. If it ever starts...this day is dragging by so far!

What am I going to do with her?

Gina that is. She is such a dare devil. She loves to do anything that will give me grey hair and possibly break a bone. Her latest thing is to stand up in the recliner and just fall straight forward into you. Problem is, she doesn't always give notice. She doesn't seem to be scared of anything.
Today I put her down for a nap and she just sat in her crib and babbled for almost an hour. I was getting ready to just get her up (but heck even if she wasn't sleeping, it was quiet and she was content) lol, when thank God I was standing in the hallway because I heard a loud, but muffled shreak and cry. I ran in there and could instantly see she wasn't in her crib, so I figured she must have fallen out. Nope, not on the floor (what a horrible thought...it's funny how just a coupe of seconds can go so slowly when things like this happen). I hear the crying still and realize she is .....in her hamper.
Yes, she fell out of her crib and into her hamper head first. She was laying on her back with her feet up over her head. I tried to lift her out, but she was wedged in there too tight.
I ended up having to pull her out by her legs. Poor thing. She was so scared and was just holding on to me so tightly. I felt so badly for her.
I don't even think she was trying to climb out, I think she was leaning for something on her dresser (probably her wipes because she is OBSESSED with them) and just fell.
I guess the hamper is better than the floor though. Although she still has a mark on her head! Poor baby.

I think we found our church home!

We've gone a couple of times to Compass Community Church and really like it, and have both said that we have connected more here than anywhere else.
Last week they discussed an opportunity to mentor students at Winton Woods with their math and science skills. Derrick and I were both interested, but coudln't make the hours work.
So we were pleased today when we heard of another opportunity to help. They have purchased back packs and have included a list inside of school supplies that are needed. So we took one home with us and purchased all the supplies. It cost me less than 20 dollars, and it felt so good. I'm glad we were able to help someone less fortunate.
I even got to thinking that I wish I could find a way to donate even more. Most of what they needed was so simple and cost so little. (There were about 3 items that cost the majority of the money, everything else was less than a dollar!) If any of you have any suggestions on how to collect more school donations, let me know.
But Derrick and I have really enjoyed the church, and I think the kids do as well. It's small (probably less than 200 people), but everyone seems so close and just so "real". I'm so glad to have found a place where we all feel so comfortable.

Meet the latest Avon representative!

I did it! I took a step outside of my comfort zone and signed up to be an Avon rep!! I think it'll be a fun and exciting adventure (and hopefully a profitable one too). I must say, I'm proud of myself. I had thought about it before but always talked myself out of it, and this time I just did it. What the heck, right? What do I have to lose?

So anyway, let me know if you have any marketing ideas or suggestions. I'd appreciate all the help I can get!!

Movin' on u-uppp

Why can't I remember more of that song??
Anyway, this front yard is bearings something it hasn't seen in a VERY long time....
A For Sale Sign!!!

We met with a different realtor last night and I just love him. Actually, dad, I kept thinking he reminded me of you with his demeanor. He was very nice and professional and knowledgeable, yet reassuring and a little more, uh...gentle, about the process than the other agent. I believe this is who we were meant to list with.

So he took all the pictures last night (I wish I had known that was going to happen)!!! and they plan on getting it listed today and get the process started.
I'm actually excited about it.

Now we just have more for the Salvation Army to come pick up to get some things out of the bedrooms so they look "roomier", get some more cleaning done upstairs, and some more purging downstairs. But to have a plan and be proceeding with it is liberating.

Derrick is in the process of looking for a second, part-time job, and I'm looking into getting a second job I can do from home. Data Entry, Customer Service, etc...so if anyone has any leads.....

I'm so blessed and grateful to have a strong support network that is there to listen to me complain when I'm feeling down and then lift me back up so I can get my head around everything again.

I have a good feeling about everything. We are on the road to getting the house sold, Derrick has been in overdrive trying to get a first and second job, and I know things can only start to come together for us now.

Okay, I'm going to be late if I don't go dry my hair and get off to work. Have a good day!!!

It's in the valley's I grow.

Thank you, Stacey for this little blessing you sent me. I love it. (Although sometimes I wonder how much I will have to "grow") lol

IT'S IN THE VALLEYS I GROW
Sometimes life seems hard to bear,
Full of sorrow, trouble and woe
It's then I have to remember
That it's in the valleys I grow.
If I always stayed on the mountain top
And never experienced pain,
I would never appreciate God's love
And would be living in vain.
I have so much to learn
And my growth is very slow,
Sometimes I need the mountain tops,
But it's in the valleys I grow.
I do not always understand
Why things happen as they do,
But I am very sure of one thing.
My Lord will see me through.
My little valleys are nothing
When I picture Christ on the cross
He went through the valley of death;
His victory was Satan's loss.
Forgive me Lord, for complaining
When I'm feeling so very low.
Just give me a gentle reminder
That it's in the valleys I grow.
Continue to strengthen me, Lord
And use my life each day
To share your love with others
And help them find their way.
Thank you for valleys, Lord
For this one thing I know
The mountain tops are glorious
But it's in the valleys I grow!
by Jane Eggleston

A long day

Today was a long day. I tend to use the blog as a chance to journal and get some stuff out, and since only those I really care about can see it, it's a good opportunity to do just that.
I went to work this morning while Derrick watched the kids, then the real estate agent came over, and once he left Derrick had to go to work. I must admit one of the things I've enjoyed about my job in the past was that it is relatively low pressure. As a working mom, it's great because I stay busy, but it's not so hectic I end up stressed and frazzled when I come home to be with the kids. Until lately anyway. Lately it's been crazy and busy and making it difficult to just enjoy work and put it behind me when I leave.
So anyway, after Derrick went to work, the kids and I went to the grocery store. Usually we grocery shop as a family so we can tag team everything, but today it just wasn't going to work. So I used the opportunity to go to a different store for a few specific items I can only get there, and wouldn't you know they were out of all of them? So frustrating.
But once we got back, the kids were both tired and fell asleep. I must admit, I do love when they take a nap at the same time! And a blessing of the day? Myles is relaxed by listening to KLove on the radio in his room. He was overly tired when we got home and acting it. But a few minutes in his room wiht KLove on, and he was fast asleep.
So, as the kids were sleeping, I got to thinking. I've been thinking a lot lately about why life is so complicated. Or at least seems to be so complicated for some, yet (at least from the outside) so relatively simple for others. Is it complicated because that's just the way life is, or do we just make it complicated? Over think things that really aren't as difficult as they seem?
I have a tendancy to stay so goal oriented and focused on my "to-do list" that I miss out on the fun in life. I treat life as one big to-do list and just check things off. I tend to "take life on" full force to a point that I inevitabley end up feeling exhausted for a day or two until I can regroup and get my focus back where it should be.
So that made me think-if we really want to be faith belivers and not just SAY we have faith when it's easy, than maybe we need to do less of the driving in life and more of the riding along in the passenger seat. Give up a little control to the only person that IS in control of it all. I guess life is all about finding that balance. The balance between listening to God and following his guidance vs. allowing him to work on things for a while.
If happiness really is a choice, then I guess we have to make that choice even when you aren't feeling it naturally. Even on a down day we can still choose to be happy and not let the events of life bring us down for long.
Have you noticed how infectious a smile is? Or laughter? I think it was designed that way. God uses us to lift each other up.
I am so blessed to have two young, funny kids that can make me see the simpler side of life and always provide an opportunity to laugh.
I think the new church we've been going to (twice now) is going to be great at pushing us outside of our comfort zone and leading us to do things in the community we wouldn't normally do. It's big enough to have those opportunities, but not so big that you can easily sit back and think "someone else will do that". And I just have a feeling that taking advantage of some volunteer opportunities in the community is exactly what I need to do. To help other people, especially children in need, and receive the blessings that come from helping others. The blessing of touching someone's life when they need it most, to take the focus off of ourselves and be truly aware of others and their circumstances (maybe to see it's not as simple as it appeared), and for the opportunity to be the person God uses to spread a smile.

Smile on. Good night.

A busy weekend

We've accomplished quite a bit this weekend. Derrick and I spent several hours yesterday making changes (hopefully improvements) to his resume and applying to millions more places online. For those of you that know Derrick, you know he isn't that computer savvy, and our ancient computer isn't the best to learn on, so he's been doing really well. I've heard that with today's job market, unemployment rate and economy the average time to find a job is 6 months. Please God, let us be better than average. If only he were going for an entry level position, things would be so much easier. Companies just don't want to/can't afford to pay people anymore, so they end up looking for people with no experience. We are so ready to accept a position (pretty much any position), we just need to be patient. I know the right thing is out there, and I really think it'll be soon, but it's just unnerving to go through the process.
We've also been doing more cleaning/purging of stuff in preparation for a real estate agent that's coming over tomorrow. We found two people that specialize in an area that I think can really help us, so we're interested to hear what the first has to say tomorrow.
Right after Myles had a long conversation with my mom and dad tonight, he was running down the hallway to show me how fast he could go. His stopping point was the linen closet at the end of our hallway, and as he ran into it as a finish line, he got his pinky pinched in the crack where it opens. I felt so bad becasue I've done that and know how bad it hurts. It immediately bruised up and started bleeding, so he's been sporting a band aid tonight. It's amazing how fascinated kids are with bandaids.
But that incident led to a funny moment. Myles had no idea your small finger was called a "pinky". He got so frustrated with me, saying "It's not my pinky, it's my FINGER". So I explained to him what a pinky was and that everyone had one. And in true Myles fashion, he thinks for a minute and said "well, horses don't have pinky's".
Yes, Myles, you're right. They don't. Wow. To just be inside that little head for a while to see how it operates. lol

So after we got him bandanged up, we were able to use a much appreciated gift I received at work to go out to dinner, which we really enjoyed. We went to Max and Erma's and I was so proud of the kids and how well behaved they were. They both ate well (well, there's not been an occassion yet that Gina *doesn't* eat well), so Myles got the build your own sundae for dessert. I was laughing to myself as I helped him make it thinking that sometimes he's lucky to have me for a mom. :)
Turns out the weirdo just wanted a handful of chewy sweattarts, so mommy got free dessert. Yum.
Now Derrick is out working in the yard and then has his work cut out for him in the basement, and I'm going to go RELAX. It's been a long day, and I'm getting up early to go into work tomorrow for a half day.

I'm so proud of my boy

We all went to the Y today so Myles could show daddy how well he's been "swimming". He'll put his whole head under water, try to float on his back, jump off the side, etc. And to think he'd barely step foot in a pool when we went to FL in March.
He actually sort of swam a little bit. It wasn't pretty and it's not like he's doing laps, but he actually floated on his belly while kicking his feet and moving his arms and made it a few feet. He did that several times. He was so proud of himself and I was so proud of him!! Derrick was amazed as he hasn't seem him in the water much lately.
He's been taking swim lessons and I think they've really helped his confidence. And Gina...that girl is a dare devil. I think she'd just keep waling until the water went over her head if I wasn't there with her. She went down the steps, jumped to me, and back up over and over and over again. She's so much more relaxed and free spirited about trying new things.
And the best part? Swimming makes them tired. lol